What makes a show truly unforgettable?
It’s not just the talent, the drama, or, for “Le Meilleur Pâtissier”, the jaw-dropping cakes. It’s the emotional connection—the moments that leave us feeling seen, inspired, or part of something bigger.
Le Meilleur Pâtissier is a french show that celebrates creativity and competition. It could become even more meaningful by making its core values explicit.
So I recently reached out to the production team of Le Meilleur Pâtissier with a few ideas on how they could infuse even more culture and meaning into their storytelling this season—hoping to spark deeper connections with both contestants and viewers alike.
Why Values Matter in Storytelling
Core values are like the secret ingredient in a recipe—they bring everything together. For a show like Le Meilleur Pâtissier, values such as competition, kindness, or creativity already underpin the challenges and interactions.
But what if they were clearly defined and consciously woven into the storytelling?
Here’s what could happen:
1. Stronger Emotional Connections
Imagine contestants sharing personal stories that align with the show’s values. A question like, “What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from a baking failure?” doesn’t just reveal technique—it humanizes the baker and inspires viewers.
2. Memorable Challenges
Challenges could be designed to reflect these values.
For example, a “kindness bake-off” where contestants team up to support each other or a creativity-themed challenge pushing boundaries.
3. Lasting Impact on Viewers
When viewers resonate with a value like ambition, they see themselves reflected in the bakers’ journeys. It’s not just a cake; it’s a story about pushing limits, embracing failure, and growing.
A Few Ways to Bring Values to Life
- Ask Deeper Questions
Replace generic soundbites with authentic prompts:- “What’s the best cake you’ve ever made, and why does it matter to you?”
- “If you win today, what would you say to the version of you who applied to become a participants of the show?”
- Shape Challenges Around Values
Let challenges embody the show’s spirit. For example:- A challenge on resilience where bakers recreate a dish that once flopped for them.
- A pastry celebrating a cultural or family tradition that shaped their love for baking.
- A dessert that represents overcoming a personal challenge.
- Highlight Value-Driven Stories
Use interviews and behind-the-scenes footage to showcase bakers’ personal connections to the show’s themes.
Beyond TV: The Power of Values Everywhere
This isn’t just for TV producers—companies, teams, and individuals can learn from this approach. When you clarify and embody your values, you create an authentic connection with your audience, employees, or community.
Think of your values as your signature flavor.
Once you’ve identified it, everything you do will leave a memorable taste.
Whether or not my email to Le Meilleur Pâtissier gets a reply, I hope it inspires more creators to see the power of values in storytelling. Because when values guide the story, the results are always unforgettable.
What are the core values driving your work?
Share in the comments or reach out—we’d love to brainstorm how to bring them to life.
