Nathan Lyon

Where are you living/working now?

I'm living and working in beautiful Southern California. I couldn't be happier.

What have you been up to since NFNS?

I've been keeping very busy. I have a new TV series on Discovery Health Channel, called A Lyon In The Kitchen. It's a cooking series that shows viewers how to find quality local food sources, from roadside produce stands to hydroponics farms, and then takes them into the kitchen where I demonstrate how to create a simple meal from those fresh ingredients. I also spend several days a week working with the fresh produce I love at local farmers markets.

What did you enjoy most about being on NFNS?

I enjoyed meeting the other finalists most, chefs from all backgrounds and with all different specialties. I always love meeting new people, especially when we share a common passion for food.

Do you still keep in touch with other contestants?

Most definitely, I love 'em all! However, I've actually been pretty hard to reach lately, with all my traveling and work on the new Discovery Health series.

Any behind-the-scene happenings from NFNS you can tell us about?

We would sleep in the Green Room whenever possible.

How did being on NFNS affect your culinary career?

Being on NFNS really solidified my desire to educate people through my cooking, which gave me a springboard for my Discovery Health series.

What advice would you offer the next round of contestants?

I would advise future contestants to maintain creativity and flexibility throughout the competition, and relax.

When you look back, would you have done anything differently?

I would have dressed warmer, because it's cold in those studios.

Are you recognized from your time on NFNS?

Yes, when I go out to eat at healthy restaurants and by those who shop for fresh produce at the farmers' market.

What was the greatest lesson you learned from your time on NFNS?

Never stop chasing your dreams, because for me they came true, on Discovery Health.