Helena Puolakka, a judge on MasterChef Finland, discusses the rigorous demands of the competition where judges taste numerous dishes in a single filming day, highlighting the physical challenges of the role. With up to 36 dishes to sample, Puolakka candidly states that the early stages of the season can be overwhelming. Having trained under the renowned chef Gordon Ramsay in London during the mid-1990s, she recalls the strict work culture that defined her early career.

Puolakka conveys her belief that Ramsay's aggressive persona is largely a theatrical role crafted for television, aimed at delivering compelling drama and engaging content. She notes the production company's incentive to elicit strong reactions, suggesting that Ramsay's notorious shouting is more about entertainment than personal conviction. This commentary sheds light on the behind-the-scenes realities of cooking shows and the dynamics between contestants and judges.

Reflecting on her experiences, Puolakka admits she had to endure Ramsay's intense verbal outbursts during her training, which has influenced her own perspective as a judge on the show. Discussing the balancing act between maintaining a professional demeanor while being under pressure, she embodies the complexity of the culinary world where passion and high stakes often collide.