An Interview with a Guitar-Wielding Chef

Who are the teachers at Syrendell Summer Camp 2017? They are creative people with a passion for teaching. And snacking!

Meet Brian Wolfe, our culinary arts instructor.
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Robyn and Brian Wolfe

​1) Where were you born and where did you live as a kid?
I was born in Juneau, Alaska. I grew up in a military family and we moved every two years until I was in high school. I don't remember living in Alaska (it was probably too cold for me anyway). When I was a kid we lived in Alaska, Virginia, Arizona, New Mexico, and California.

2) What did you like to do as a kid?
As a kid, I loved martial arts, playing baseball and basketball, collecting baseball cards, drawing and painting, playing the guitar, and snacking! (I guess this is what I like to do as an adult too).

3) Who were one of your heroes growing up and why?
My Dad has always been a hero to me. He inspired me to be interested in a wide range of activities and to always strive to learn more about myself and the world around me. He was a Commander in the Coast Guard, a Judo black belt, an architect, musician, and he now owns a community theater! From martial arts to music to painting back drops for plays, my love for the arts comes from my dad.   

4) What/who motivated you to become a teacher?
My mom was an elementary school teacher for 30 years. Her dedication and passion for teaching definitely rubbed off on me. I was also lucky enough to have some amazing coaches and martial arts instructors growing up. The inspiration that I've received from good teachers in my life inspire me to be the best teacher I can be. 

5) What inspires you to be creative?
As an introvert, I'm not always the most socially outgoing person. Art and music has been a great way for me to express myself and connect with people. I also love to be creative when I cook and I'm grateful to have a family that puts up with me making a huge mess in the kitchen and testing out all of my recipes on them. 

6) Do you have a pet? What is its name?
One of our cats is named Hendrix after the greatest rock guitar player who ever lived. Hendrix the cat has a big ego, loves attention, and he's an accomplished hunter. Our other cat, Henley, is a giant, reclusive Maine coon named after Don Henley, drummer and lead singer for the Eagles. Our cats are rock stars. 

7) What is one of your favorite foods?
I love a good turkey sandwich with everything on it! Turkey, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, bacon, dijon mustard, mayonnaise, toasted sourdough bread!

8) If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be?
I would be able to make turkey sandwiches appear out of thin air! This is such a tough question. Actually, I think time travel would be a really cool superpower!

9) Why do you want to teach at Syrendell Summer Camp?
Rick and Jennifer Tan see everything through a beautiful, artistic lens. The attention to detail, quality of staff, and atmosphere of creativity and fun is like no other camp for kids out there. AND, I get to cook great food with the kids and EAT all week! Arts, crafts, food, play... what more can you ask for!?
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learn more about brian and camp