Hospitality Bites Previous Seasons

Hosted by Colleen Silk

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Jan 2025

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About the show

*Special New Season Coming Fall 2026* Hospitality Bites is a podcast hosted by Colleen Silk — mompreneur, hospitality hustler, storyteller, and founder of Hospitality Bites Media (HBM). Through honest, empathetic, and unfiltered conversations, the show shines a light on the human side of hospitality while amplifying the voices of the people who make this industry what it is. Hospitality Bites Media was created to help promote healthier, more sustainable, and more inclusive workplaces across hospitality. Through podcasting, consulting, events, workshops, digital resources, and storytelling, HBM encourages the industry to prioritize mental well-being, support its people, and challenge the culture of perfectionism that has long defined the space. The hospitality industry is built on high standards, long hours, constant pressure, and the expectation to always be "on." Behind the plates, pours, and service, however, are real people navigating burnout, mental health struggles, career pivots, creativity, leadership challenges, parenthood, identity, and the realities of life both inside and outside of work. For too long, many of these conversations were hidden or ignored. Hospitality Bites exists to help change that. From chefs, beverage directors, restaurateurs, and educators to advocates, creators, and industry disruptors — from lesser-known voices to celebrity guests — each episode offers candid conversations designed to destigmatize, enlighten, inspire, and normalize a more realistic expectation of what hospitality truly looks like today. Some episodes are educational. Some are emotional. Some are chaotic, funny, and deeply relatable. But all of them are rooted in connection, community, and creating space for more honest conversations within the industry we love. Hosted by Colleen Silk. Produced by Hospitality Bites Media. Interested in collaborating with HBM or being a guest on the show? Connect with Colleen Silk on LinkedIn or reach out through Hospitality Bites Media.

Listen to episodes

24 recent

January 17, 2025Episode 41 hr 0 min

Hospitality Bites--Nesha Abarno-Powerhouse in Hospitality

Welcome back to Hospitality Bites, hosted by Colleen Silk. On today's episode, I am joined by Nesha Abarno, a seasoned hospitality professional with an incredible background in the industry. We discuss her journey within the hospitality space, from growing up in a family-run golf course to managing high-end dining experiences in New York City to now being a key team member of the incredible Maverick Theory. We also examine the importance of creating safe spaces for future generations, addressing misogyny, standing up against inappropriate behavior, and the challenges many women encounter in the hospitality industry. These challenges include sexism, the necessity of establishing boundaries, the significance of having the right people in leadership positions, and the journey toward entrepreneurship. If you want to learn more about Nesha Abarno and the entire team at Maverick Theory, please visit www.mavericktheory.com and follow them on social!

November 19, 2024Episode 343 min

Hospitality Bites--Christin Marvin, The Hospitality Leader's Roadmap

Welcome back to Hospitality Bites! In today's episode, I am joined by Christin Marvin, a seasoned hospitality professional, podcast host of "No Hesitations," and author of "The Hospitality Leader's Roadmap." We discuss Christin's extensive career journey in the restaurant industry, her personal challenges with burnout and lifestyle changes, and her transition into coaching and consulting. Christin shares her experiences of hitting rock bottom and emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships within the hospitality community. She offers valuable insights on empowering business owners in the hospitality sector, the necessity of setting boundaries, and her journey of writing a book. We also highlight the need for community support and collaboration among industry professionals, as well as the significance of mental health resources for those in the hospitality sector, including CHOW, where Christin actively serves on the Board.

October 18, 2024Episode 21 hr 5 min

Hospitality Bites--Kris Hall, CEO of The Burnt Chef Project

Welcome to Hospitality Bites! Today, I'm thrilled to have Kris Hall, the founder and CEO of The Burnt Chef Project, joining me. We delve into the remarkable expansion of The Burnt Chef ambassador network, Kris's transition from sales to discovering his true calling in hospitality, and the vital significance of mental health awareness within the industry. Kris openly shares his personal challenges and the pivotal moments that spurred the inception of The Burnt Chef Project, highlighting the crucial role of how community support and the power of shifting perspectives in life and hospitality. Our discussion also explores the impact of COVID-19, the responsibility of managers in promoting mental well-being, the tools and resources needed to run and operate businesses successfully, and the value of cultivating respectful customer relationships. If you're interested in learning more about The Burnt Chef Project and our efforts to change the narrative around mental health in the hospitality industry, please visit theburntchefproject.com. Feel free to contact me directly at csilk.HBM@gmail.com if you'd like to have a conversation. We will be attending NAFEM in February, along with other members of our North American team. Be sure to visit our booth and follow me on social media for details about our Welcome Happy Hour meet and greet with our team! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I am also working on a brand new, unscripted series Beyond the Burn Out, which is in early production, but I need your help to bring it to your screens! I am looking for sponsors who believe in the #hospitalityindustry and want to see these taboo subjects go beyond passing conversations and actually change and evolve the industry. If you want to learn more about #BeyondTheBurnOut, please email me directly at CSilk.HBM@gmail.com or sponsor directly here!

October 7, 2024Episode 11 hr 6 min

Hospitality Bites--Michael Tipps, Co-Founder of Maverick Theory

Today's episode features Michael Tipps, a seasoned food and beverage expert, Co-Founder of Maverick Theory, and advisor for The Bar and Restaurant Expo. We discuss his journey into the hospitality industry, his time in the entertainment industry (including acting, producing, and his time on ‪‪@BarRescue‬ ), and the evolution of becoming the go-to mixologist. We also chat about the challenges faced by restaurant owners, the importance of setting standards, and the mission behind Tipps' consulting firm, Maverick Theory. The conversation highlights the need for integrity in consulting, the significance of guest experience, and the future plans for Maverick Theory as a resource for hospitality professionals.

March 22, 2024Episode 1254 min

Hospitality Bites--Culinary Commentating Wizard with Justin Warner

In today's Season 3 final episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Justin Warner--chef, cookbook author, business owner, and culinary commentator on the Food Network's TOC. During our conversation, Chef Justin shared his journey in the culinary industry, from starting as a front-of-house employee to opening his own restaurant. He also talked about his experiences cooking on Twitch, appearing and working on Food Network, and his passion for hospitality. Chef Justin emphasized the importance of continuous learning and questioning to be successful in the front-of-house operation. He talked about the challenges of opening a restaurant during the pandemic, the concept of his current restaurant, and the value of working alongside his spouse as an owner. He also discussed the impact of industry relationships and balancing his two careers while maintaining a family life. We also briefly discussed our shared love for picking crabs, being true Marylanders. Chef Justin stressed the importance of taking breaks and pausing when necessary to maintain a work-life balance.

March 15, 2024Episode 1137 min

Hospitality Bites-Maximum Flavor with Adrianne Calvo

In today's episode, I am joined by Adrianne Calvo - a cookbook author, entrepreneur, host, and award-winning chef. We discuss how she stumbled into the culinary world, her journey of becoming the youngest cookbook author soon after college, the obstacles she faced while opening her first restaurant, her entrepreneurial achievements, and her show "Searching for Maximum Flavor". We also talked about the loss of her sister and how that has motivated her to pursue her passion for immersive dining experiences and the philanthropic work she does through her Make it Count Foundation. Chef Adrianne currently owns and manages two restaurants in the Miami area, with another one in the works. She offers her highly-acclaimed French Onion Soup, Braised Short Ribs, and mouth-watering pastries through GoldBelly!

March 1, 2024Episode 101 hr 0 min

Hospitality Bites--Not 9 to 5 with Hassel Aviles

**Trigger Warning** In this episode, we discuss sensitive subject matters about mental health and suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health matters, please call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline. In this episode, I am joined by the founder of Not 9 to 5, Hassel Aviles, a non-profit, global leader and organization focused on mental health and well-being in the food and hospitality sector. During our discussion, we talked about Hassel's experience in the service industry, the various challenges and stigma that hospitality professionals face, and the importance of valuing one's lived experience. We also delved into the catalyst that inspired the creation of Not 9to5 and how Anthony Bourdain's death has impacted the organization's work. Furthermore, we talked about their Podcast, We Have Lived, and their award-nominated short film, which seeks to humanize the issues within the industry and share powerful stories.

February 2, 2024Episode 81 hr 4 min

Hospitality Bites--Duffified with Brian Duffy

In today's episode, I am joined by Restaurant Consultant, Food Media Personality, and Proud Dad, Chef Brian Duffy. We discuss his DEG Consulting Company, and the importance of creating personalized experiences with each business he works with, his background in the restaurant industry, including his time working in Irish pubs and his passion for elevating pub food. We discusses the impact of his time on Bar Rescue on his career and the realities of the restaurant industry. This leads us to discuss addressing mental health in the industry and outing the toxic environment in the restaurant industry and highlights the importance of transitioning to a healthier approach and prioritizing employee well-being. Chef shares his personal experiences of transformation and emphasizes the need to create positive experiences wherever he goes and with whom he works. We end this engaging conversation by learning more about his other business ventures and the work alongside his brothers at World Chef and Yum Crunch, and how they are making the culinary world not only accessible but fun and engaging!

December 21, 2023Episode 752 min

Hospitality Bites--Mind Open-Fork Ready with Derek Wallace

In this episode, I am joined by Derek Wallace, the co-founder of Kalamata's Kitchen and Golden Fork Media. We discuss how people's perceptions of dining out are changing and why it's crucial to create more inclusive culinary environments, including family diners. We also highlight some of Kalamata's Ambassadors, including culinary visionaries such as Eric Ripert, Eric Adjepong, and Kristen Kish, among others. Additionally, we explore the expansion of opportunities for Golden Fork Media and the importance of taking risks and embracing failure. We also discuss the future and the exciting developments in store for Kalamata's Kitchen and the hospitality industry as a whole, and much more! _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Hospitality Bites is a podcast hosted by Colleen Silk, who is also the founder of Hospitality Bites Media (HBM). HBM aims to promote the human side of hospitality and create a brand that amplifies individual voices while encouraging the industry to prioritize mental well-being, create sustainable workplaces, and foster a culture of inclusivity and support. HBM provides consulting services for restaurateurs, sells products and digital toolkits, and hosts events, workshops, and this podcast. The hospitality industry is known for its high standards, achievements, and recognition. However, these pressures of perfection and the constant need to be "on" have led to a mental health issue that has been hidden for too long. It is time to bring awareness to these struggles, highlight smaller successes, and offer different career avenues within the industry. This podcast features conversations with a variety of hospitality experts, from lesser-known individuals to celebrities, with the goal of destigmatizing, enlightening, and normalizing a more realistic expectation of the industry. If you want to work with HBM or be a guest on the show, don't hesitate to reach out and follow Colleen Silk on LinkedIn!

November 20, 2023Episode 640 min

Hospitality Bites--Cali BBQ Media with Shawn Welchef

In today's episode, I am joined by the owner and founder of Cali BBQ Media and restaurant, the "Toast" unboxing guy, host of Toast Family Style, and all around hospitality entrepreneur, Shawn Welchef. We discuss his passion for telling stories, the restaurant industry and how he blended the two to create his media company. We also chat about the impact and influence your family can have on driving business decisions, finding authenticity within the hospitality space, not being afraid to create a scene, and so much more. To learn more about Shawn and his company be sure to follow along with him on LinkedIn or contact him directly at shawn@calicomfortbbq.com. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Hospitality Bites is a podcast hosted by Colleen Silk, who is also the founder of Hospitality Bites Media (HBM). HBM aims to promote the human side of hospitality and create a brand that amplifies individual voices while encouraging the industry to prioritize mental well-being, create sustainable workplaces, and foster a culture of inclusivity and support. HBM provides consulting services for restaurateurs, sells products and digital toolkits, and hosts events, workshops, and this podcast. The hospitality industry is known for its high standards, achievements, and recognition. However, these pressures of perfection and the constant need to be "on" have led to a mental health issue that has been hidden for too long. It is time to bring awareness to these struggles, highlight smaller successes, and offer different career avenues within the industry. This podcast features conversations with a variety of hospitality experts, from lesser-known individuals to celebrities, with the goal of destigmatizing, enlightening, and normalizing a more realistic expectation of the industry. If you want to work with HBM or be a guest on the show, don't hesitate to reach out and follow Colleen Silk on LinkedIn!