076: From “Illegal” Immigrant to Educator: Crossing Borders, Building Futures with Chef Felix

In this episode of The Alchemist Lounge, we sit down with Chef Felix Cortez—an immigrant, educator, and community pillar—to trace his journey from working since age 8 in rural Mexico to crossing into the U.S. at 17, grinding through farm and dishwashing jobs, rising to line cook and chef, and ultimately answering a faith-driven call to teach at Orange Technical College in Orlando. It’s a grounded look at immigration beyond headlines—one day at a time, hard work, and service to others

In this episode, you will hear:

  • (0:00) Why this story matters now: moving past immigration headlines to a human story; meet Chef Felix.
  • (2:00) Growing up in Mexico: dad leaves to provide; Felix works from age 8 to support the family.
  • (10:18) First spark for food: helping make underground barbacoa at 12—early culinary skills before he knew it.
  • (23:06) First U.S. grind: peppers, oranges, heavy labor; driving tractors; moving for love and opportunity.
  • (25:42) Kitchen door opens: dishwasher → breakfast line; culinary school (2003); stints with Marriott & Eden Roc.
  • (28:29) Living in the gray: fear, expired license years, and choosing to keep moving—one day at a time.
  • (29:49) Orlando chapter: food service → teaching; eight years mentoring students into real careers.
  • (37:46) A calling confirmed: a 2006 prophecy to “teach what you have” fulfilled in 2016 at Orange Technical College.
  • (41:38) Practical mentorship: start small, learn English, pay taxes, stack skills; a student’s $23/hr Disney offer at under 20.
  • (51:03) Starting over (again): it’s not about money—it’s about service, family, and becoming a pillar where you live.

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