Chef Josh Bingham from Below Deck Med Proposes New Cooking Spinoff Series

Below Deck Med‘s Josh Bingham had an incredible time filming season 10 and even has some ideas for potential spinoffs.

As Below Deck Med continues to air, Josh shared exclusive insights with Us Weekly about working with Captain Sandy Yawn, chief stew Aesha Scott, and his thoughts on expanding the Bravo franchise.

How familiar were you with the show before you joined?
I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from the filming aspect, but I had watched the show prior, especially before entering yachting. I tuned in to get a sense of the lifestyle. I followed a few seasons featuring [Chef] Ben [Robinson] and also a season with Gary [King]. He certainly stirred up some controversy, but the early seasons showcased his humor. Besides that, I hadn’t watched much; I had seen a season with Aesha and Captain Jason. I was definitely aware of the show.

When you joined the show, did you reach out to any Below Deck chiefs or did any of them reach out to you for advice?
No, I didn’t know anyone, and no one offered me advice. People in the yachting industry sometimes have a peculiar view of the show. I sensed some judgmental comments directed at me. However, I didn’t let that impact me because it’s my life, and I can make my own choices.

Any worries or concerns about being filmed day-to-day?
One great chef I admired on Sailing Yacht was Marcos [Spaziani]. He worked incredibly hard and performed excellently. It’s unfortunate I don’t personally know any of them.

Hopefully this will give you the chance to meet more.
That would be fantastic. I think a cook-off among all of us would be fun. A Below Deck competition where we all compete against one another.

How long did it take to adjust to the cameras?
I wasn’t sure how I’d feel. I recall boarding the boat and quickly getting comfortable. The workload occupies your mind, making you realize you have tasks to complete. Initially, I worried about how it might affect me.

However, I found I adapted better than I expected. The added pressure can be overwhelming if you’re not at ease with it. I’m pleased that I integrated well.

We just witnessed some particularly challenging guests leaving the boat. Was this one of your toughest experiences as a chef?
I’ve certainly encountered guests who were equally, if not more, challenging. It’s all relative to what you’re experiencing. Working for ultra-high-net-worth individuals often leads to unique demands and behaviors. Their lifestyle can be quite foreign to us, and you eventually acclimate to their unusual requests, even when they’re unhappy or particularly picky.

Were you surprised by the high tip they left?
Yes, I was surprised. The primary guest really enjoyed the food, and she seemed genuinely generous. However, the vegan guest did cast a shadow over it a bit. It was really kind of them to leave such a substantial tip.

What prompted you to walk off?
When I saw the edited version, I thought, ‘I didn’t walk off the boat.’ However, watching it back made me think, ‘Maybe I did.’ Spending 18 hours in that confined space tends to build a desire for a short break, and I usually step off the boat for about 10 to 15 minutes at the end of the night. It was just a bit more abrupt. At that moment, I was also smoking, and I needed to step away.

Are you discovering anything new while watching the show?
I felt familiar with the dynamics of the interior, but I was unaware of many exterior details happening around me. I realized there was quite a bit going on that I hadn’t known about. There were things in the confessionals that I perhaps expected, but didn’t fully grasp.

What are your thoughts on the recent exits and new additions to the cast?
It impacted me quite a bit because I hadn’t really formed connections with some of those who left. My interactions felt very surface-level. However, with Joe [Bradley]’s arrival, I quickly adapted to his infectious energy. He was a great addition, and I appreciated the shift in personalities.

How do you feel about the way some individuals departed from the boat, especially the rude comments made about Captain Sandy in confessional?
I was taken aback and thought, ‘You’re acting like a spoiled brat.’ She has a rebellious nature, but when someone offers constructive criticism, it’s essential to be receptive. If you can’t accept it, you may not go far.

What’s it like having Captain Sandy as a boss?
I found her to be excellent; she allowed me the freedom to operate independently, which was refreshing. I know there were instances in previous seasons where she was more hands-on. Despite some challenges with her approach, it was rewarding to spend six weeks together, getting to know her style. She is a very inspiring figure within the industry, and I appreciated being around her energy.

Which show in the franchise would you want to join next? Is there another captain you’d like to work for?
I think I’d connect well with Captain Jason. I have strong ties to Bali through family, and I know he frequently visits there. Our mindsets seem similar, and I believe we’d get along well.

What about your experience working with Aesha Scott?
She’s amazing! Right from the start, we agreed, ‘Let’s speak to one another with respect and avoid shouting.’ She was really appreciative and made me feel comfortable in the galley. We formed a solid team dynamic, and her enthusiasm was infectious.

Would you return for more seasons if the opportunity arose?
It all depends on timing. Life can get quite busy, but I wouldn’t refuse the chance. It really boils down to my current situation and what I have going on. We have to make a living; life can be expensive.