"In 2018, when I was 29 years old, I was the executive chef at Hotel 50 Bowery in Chinatown, overseeing the food program at the restaurant, rooftop bar, and in-room dining. I finally had a consistent work schedule and made a decent salary, which allowed me to go out with my friends regularly without worrying about my next paycheck. This also made drinking more accessible. I busted my ass at work but I was hungover a few days a week. I did the best I could every day, but doing the best when you’re only at 60 percent will never be your best." - Jae Lee
