Hi Folks!

I am officially done with the Food Network Star Book Tour!  2 weeks, 8 cities, countless interviews, TV appearances, airports, and thousands of books signed.  What a whirlwind.  I honestly loved every minute it.  My room service ordering ability was greatly improved, as well as my airport-navigation savviness. Meeting the thousands of fans was the true gift.  Little did I know how many people love this show.  You hear about ratings and see the facebook and tweeter responses, but in person it is a whole different sandwich.  The spectrum of fans is diverse:  Toddlers, teens, Dads, Grandmas, Babies, Moms, etc.  The outpouring of support was mind blowing, and getting to meet everyone one -on-one really humbled me.  Not to mention all the signatures!.  I even signed a sandwich, in mustard, and took a bite.  Truly a dream come true.

As for the first two episodes of Sandwich King, I feel they came out stellar.  It’s hard watching yourself for 22 minutes under the microscope of HD television.  Every silly thing said, repeated phrase and goofy face is up front and center.  That’s going to take a little getting used to, but overall, I’m proud.  Shooting a cooking show is the most mentally taxing performance art I’ve ever attempting.  The juggling of mental and physical requirements left me exhausted at the end of the day.  One flub and you have to do another take.  As the days went on, I did get more comfortable, so hopefully, by next season (if they give one) I’ll be even better.

Til’ then, it’s back to recipe development, sandwich research (eating), and maybe a little vacation with the family.  Thank you all for being great fans.  This is truly only the begining, and I’m glad you’re all with me…

A Sandwich a Day….

Jeff Mauro