When you run a personal chef business, getting paid isn’t always as simple as it should be. From payment disputes to canceled checks and questionable Venmo transactions, every chef has a horror story.

In this episode, I sit down with Chef Matt Collins to talk about the best payment methods, when to require deposits, and how to protect yourself from payment issues. If you take money for your services—whether as a personal chef, caterer, or food entrepreneur—this is a must-listen!

We share real-life payment horror stories, break down the pros and cons of different payment methods, and discuss strategies to avoid late or missing payments.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ The best payment methods for personal chefs (and which ones to avoid)
✅ Why deposits are crucial & how much to require upfront
✅ The hidden risks of Venmo, Zelle, and PayPal transactions
✅ How to handle clients who want to split payments between multiple people
✅ Real horror stories of chefs who got scammed or didn’t get paid
✅ How to protect yourself from last-minute cancellations & chargebacks
✅ Tips for handling cash payments and avoiding tax issues

MATT COLLINS

Matt Collins on Instagram
Chef Collins Events - Private Dinners

PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE
Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube
Reach out at [email protected]
... More Coming soon

CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS
Check out our other podcast and community.

If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links).
Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter
Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube
The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group
Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites