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Chef Jean Joho

our work

Strategic Personal Publicity & Brand Building

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overview

For several years, Beth Strautz, founder and principal of Vagus PR, served as the personal publicist to world-renowned chef Jean Joho — one of America’s most celebrated culinary talents and a pioneer of contemporary French cuisine. During this time, she helped shape his public image, built a powerful national media presence, and amplified his voice as a leading figure in the fine-dining world.

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Group of chefs and kitchen staff posing for a photo in a professional restaurant kitchen, standing behind a stainless steel counter with cookbooks and eggs underneath.
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A tray with a white plate of a rectangular cake topped with chocolate stripes, a small salad of green sprouts, and a separate plate with three slices of grilled cheese sandwiches; also a small floral arrangement with yellow and red flowers.
Two glasses of white wine on a table during sunset.
Two men standing together in a formal setting, one in a black blazer and the other in a white chef's coat, smiling at the camera.
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A chef in a restaurant kitchen preparing to serve a plated gourmet dish with scallops, herbs, and sauce, with a stack of white plates and silver serving ware in the background.
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Working directly with Chef Joho, Vagus developed and executed a comprehensive publicity and media strategy designed to elevate his personal brand and extend his influence far beyond the kitchen. This included:

  • Media Relations & Thought Leadership – Secured high-profile interviews and features in Food & Wine, The Wall Street Journal, Bon Appétit, Wine Spectator, Forbes, Saveur, Gourmet, and Chicago Tribune, as well as appearances on Food Network, PBS, and other national broadcast outlets.

  • Book Launches & Culinary Events – Directed national press campaigns for cookbook launches, including the acclaimed Eiffel Tower Cookbook and French Women Don’t Get Fat Cookbook by Mireille Guiliano, which featured a high-profile book signing event. Produced exclusive media dinners, private tastings, and collaborative events with other culinary luminaries such as Jacques Torres and Joan Nathan.

  • Awards & Recognition Campaigns – Led successful efforts to secure and promote prestigious accolades including James Beard Foundation Awards, AAA Five Diamond Awards, Michelin Guide distinctions, and Relais & Châteaux honors.

  • Public Appearances & Strategic Partnerships – Managed Chef Joho’s participation in high-profile culinary events, national wine dinners, and industry conferences — including partnerships with global brands and competitions such as the Nestlé Culinary Competition — further solidifying his authority within the international culinary community.

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