Talking Hospitality podcast

This episode is in an examination of the evolving nature of professional relationships and the significance of mentorship as a means of preserving institutional knowledge. With thanks to brand partners Graphic Kitchen and Leisurejobs for their support in this episode.This episodes guest, Kieron Bailey suggests that the hospitality industry must recognise the intrinsic value of older employees—not merely as relics of a bygone era but as vital contributors to the ongoing narrative of service excellence. The conversation highlights the critical need for older professionals to engage with younger counterparts, fostering a symbiotic relationship where knowledge is shared, and new ideas are cultivated. Kieron’s reflections on his own journey illustrate a personal commitment to mentorship, where he aspires to empower others while simultaneously learning from their fresh perspectives. This duality is essential for the advancement of the industry, as it encourages a culture where both seasoned veterans and nascent talents can flourish together. It's time for the hospitality sector to embrace a holistic approach to professional development—one that values experience while remaining open to innovation—ultimately reinforcing the notion that age is not a barrier to success, but a conduit for growth and collaboration.Takeaways: The challenge of age in hospitality is a significant concern for many individuals over 50, particularly in terms of perceived value and relevance in the industry. Younger generations, such as Gen Z and Gen Alpha, face their own challenges related to self-esteem and self-talk, which can be detrimental to their mental health. Experience in older generations is invaluable, particularly in mentoring and teaching younger individuals who may lack practical decision-making skills. Effective communication across generational divides is crucial, as it can bridge the gap between differing perspectives and foster a more cohesive work environment. Empowerment of younger employees is essential; fostering a culture where they feel capable of making decisions can lead to more successful outcomes. The importance of self-awareness and managing one's internal dialogue is critical for all ages, as it significantly impacts mental well-being and professional performance. Links referenced in this episode:Graphic KitchenLeisureJobsHam Yard HotelYouda Imperial Hotel Group Wagamama Hospitality Mavericks LinkedinIf you're interested in the subjects discussed here, why not check out this episode with Jill Whittaker

The biggest challenge in the hospitality industry today is delivering a memorable experience for guests, as discussed by the hosts in this engaging podcast episode and the first of season 5.New host Joe McDonnell highlights that while the industry excels at opening new venues and crafting enticing menus, it often struggles with the execution and follow-through necessary to create truly unforgettable moments. This episode also introduces Joe, bringing a wealth of experience from his global journey through the hospitality world, including insights from premium restaurants and five-star hotels. Tracey Rashid and Timothy R. Andrews join Joe in exploring the importance of attention to detail and the need for venues to connect the dots between their big ideas and the actual guest experience. As the podcast gears up for an exciting season 5, the hosts share their commitment to innovating and adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of hospitality.The podcast delves into the pressing challenges faced by the hospitality industry today, with a particular focus on the need to deliver exceptional guest experiences. Joe McDonnell, the new co-host, shares his insights on the current state of hospitality, emphasizing that while the industry excels at opening new venues and designing appealing concepts, it often fails to execute these ideas effectively. This disconnect can lead to guest experiences that fall short of expectations, especially in a time when many people prefer the comforts of home. Joe argues that to compete, hospitality businesses must prioritise creating unforgettable experiences that blend attention to detail with innovative ideas, thus ensuring that guests feel valued and excited to return.The episode also marks a significant moment for the podcast, as Timothy R. Andrews and Tracey Rashid share their enthusiasm for the upcoming season, which promises to bring fresh content and new formats. They highlight the importance of listener feedback in shaping the direction of the show and express excitement about Joe's participation. His diverse background in hospitality—from working in bars as a school student to managing premium venues—adds a rich layer to the conversation, underscoring the rewarding yet challenging nature of the industry. Joe's desire to be a 'force for good' within hospitality resonates throughout the discussion, portraying a hopeful outlook for its future.As the episode draws to a close, the hosts invite listeners to engage with the podcast actively, sharing their thoughts on topics they wish to explore. They reinforce their commitment to fostering a sense of community among hospitality professionals and to providing a platform for sharing valuable insights. The episode captures the essence of collaboration and innovation in hospitality, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead, where both the hosts and listeners can contribute to a vibrant dialogue about the industry's evolution.Takeaways: The biggest challenge in hospitality currently is delivering memorable experiences for guests. While the industry excels at opening new venues, it struggles with consistently following through on concepts. Attention to detail is crucial, but it must be balanced with creating unforgettable experiences. Many people prefer staying home because they can replicate restaurant experiences themselves more easily. Connecting creative ideas with practical execution is the key to success in hospitality. The upcoming season promises exciting changes, including a new format and more engaging content. Further Resources:For more insights, visit the Talking Hospitality Blog: <a href="https://www.talkinghospitality.com/blog/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

SummaryIn the first ever unedited episode since episode 1, join us for the finale of Season Four. Tracy Rashid and Timothy R. Andrews reflect on the amazing journey they've had recording the season. They express their gratitude to the guests and listeners who have supported them. The hosts discuss the filming of Zest Quest Asia and the evolution of the podcast, from online interviews to future Vox Pox formats. They also share their favourite episodes and highlight the impact the podcast has had on them as hosts, but also to listeners who have shared their stories.The episode concludes with a teaser for Season Five and the announcement of a short break.Unedited. Unabridged. Warts n All. Wrapped in a theme tune.TakeawaysExpress gratitude to guests and listeners for their support.Reflect on the evolution of the podcast and the filming of special episodes.Highlight favorite episodes and the impact the podcast has had on listeners.Tease Season Five and announce a short break.Chapters00:00 Season Four Wrap-Up01:34 Filming ZestQuest Asia03:53 Appreciation for Guests and Listeners06:20 Every Voice Can Shape the Future08:45 Favourite Episodes09:21 Future Growth and Audience Input10:21 Impact of the Podcast10:50 Taking a Short Break11:20 Season Five Teaser

Women leadership in the hospitality industry remains a significant issue, with women holding less than 40% of managerial positions despite making up a large portion of the workforce. This podcast dives deep into the challenges faced by women in hospitality leadership roles and explores actionable solutions to empower them. Hosts Timothy R. Andrews and Tracy Rashid are joined by industry leaders Monica Orr, Marcia Bennett, Michelle Raghini, and Michelle Moreno, who share their personal journeys and insights on fostering an environment conducive to female advancement. The conversation highlights the necessity of mentorship, networking, and creating supportive communities to boost confidence among women in the field. As they reflect on their experiences, the guests emphasize the importance of breaking down barriers and encouraging more women to pursue leadership opportunities in hospitality.Ever wondered why, in an industry powered by women, so few reach the top? Join us as we unravel the complexities of female leadership in hospitality, with stories that inspire, challenges that resonate, and solutions that empower. This isn't just a conversation; it's a movement towards a more inclusive future. Tune in to be part of the change.In this compelling episode of Talking Hospitality, hosts Timothy R. Andrews and Tracey Rashid are joined by a stellar lineup of guests: Monica Or, Marsha Barnett, Michelle Moreno and Shell Righini. Together, they tackle the pressing issue of Women Leadership in Hospitality, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities for female leaders in the sector.Why You Should Listen:If you're passionate about fostering a more inclusive and equitable hospitality industry, this episode is a must-listen. It's not just a conversation; it's a call to action for everyone in the industry to reflect on how we can support and empower women to climb the leadership ladder. With insights from women who've navigated these challenges firsthand, you'll be inspired to make positive changes in your own professional environment.Key Points of Interest:Underrepresentation of Women in Leadership: Despite women constituting a significant portion of the hospitality workforce, their presence in managerial and executive roles is disproportionately low.Breaking Barriers: The episode explores how societal expectations and industry norms create barriers for women, and what can be done to dismantle these obstacles.Empowerment through Education: Monica Or's journey from a hospitality professional to a bestselling author and educator highlights the power of knowledge and mentorship in empowering the next generation of female leaders.Creating Support Networks: Shell Righini's transition from frontline hospitality roles to advocating for mental health and inclusivity underscores the importance of support networks and mentorship.Visibility and Representation: The guests discuss the critical role of visibility and representation in inspiring and empowering women to pursue leadership roles.Challenges and Solutions: Real-life examples of overcoming gender biases and practical solutions for creating a more inclusive industry are shared.The Power of Networking: The episode emphasizes the importance of networking and mentorship in advancing one's career and fostering a community of support among women in hospitality.This episode of Talking Hospitality is more than just a discussion; it's a beacon of hope and a roadmap for aspiring female leaders in the hospitality industry. By highlighting the challenges, celebrating the successes, and offering tangible solutions, it serves as a valuable resource for anyone committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in their professional sphere. Let's take these insights and turn them into action, for a hospitality industry where everyone has

Episode 43, Season 4 of Talking Hospitality marks a significant transition as we bid a heartfelt farewell to Sarah Kettel, the original host and founder, who has been an integral part of the podcast for 32 episodes across four seasons. Timothy R. Andrews and Tracey Rashid take us on a reflective journey through Sarah's impactful tenure, her beginnings in the hospitality industry, and her motivations behind the podcast. As Sarah steps down, she shares her current endeavours and leaves us with valuable insights and advice for hospitality professionals.Why You Should ListenThis episode is not just a farewell; it's a celebration of Sarah's contributions and a testament to the resilience and passion that define the hospitality industry. Listeners will gain an intimate look into the origins of Talking Hospitality, the challenges and triumphs faced along the way, and the future direction of the podcast. It's a must-listen for those in the industry seeking inspiration, insight, and a sense of community.Key Points of InterestOrigins and Impact: Learn how the podcast was born out of a desire to highlight the positive stories in hospitality during the challenging times of the pandemic.Sarah's Hospitality Journey: From her first job in a seaside town to launching a catering company, Sarah's path is a rich source of inspiration.Philosophy of Hospitality: Sarah discusses the unique, soul-touching aspect of hospitality, emphasising its holistic and empathetic nature.Technological Trends: With Sarah's current focus on helping restaurants launch for delivery, listeners will appreciate her insights into the evolving landscape of hospitality and technology.Advice for Professionals: Sarah's parting advice encourages hospitality professionals to embrace change, highlighting the industry's opportunities for growth and innovation.ConclusionAs we close this chapter with Sarah Kettel, we're reminded of the power of storytelling, the importance of community, and the ever-evolving nature of the hospitality industry. This episode is a beacon for hospitality professionals everywhere, encouraging us to pursue our passions, embrace change, and continue making a difference in the lives of others. Sarah may be stepping down, but her legacy and the lessons she shared will continue to inspire and guide us. Stay tuned for more insightful conversations here on Talking Hospitality, where the journey of learning and growth goes on.

Dive into the heart of sustainability with Andrea Zick, a trailblazer in the hospitality industry, as she unveils the intricate dance of creating a sustainable future without sacrificing the essence of luxury dining. This episode is a journey through the lens of a former chef turned sustainability champion, offering a fresh perspective on the challenges and triumphs of embedding sustainability into the fabric of the hospitality industry.Why Listen: If you're passionate about the future of hospitality and the planet, this episode is a must-listen. Andrea Zick, with her rich background in nutrition, health, and a deep-rooted connection to the environment, shares invaluable insights into transforming the hospitality industry into a beacon of sustainability. From the importance of empathy and communication in driving change to practical steps for reducing food waste and embracing regenerative practices, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and a vision for a more sustainable and inclusive industry. Whether you're a seasoned hospitality professional or just starting your sustainability journey, Andrea's story and insights will empower you to make a positive impact.Key Points of Interest:Andrea Zick's Journey: From her early exposure to gardening and understanding the planet's influence on us, to leading the Oxo Tower Restaurant to win prestigious sustainability awards, Andrea's journey is a testament to the power of ancestral knowledge and a passion for sustainability.Defining Sustainability: Andrea offers a deeper understanding of sustainability, emphasizing the importance of dialogue, empathy, and experimentation within the business to improve practices affecting the environment, social governance, and profitability.Empathy and Communication: Highlighting empathy and communication as crucial ingredients for successful sustainability projects, Andrea shares how these elements foster a culture of change and innovation.Food Waste Reduction: Andrea discusses the practical steps taken by the Oxo Tower Restaurant to significantly reduce food waste, showcasing the importance of measuring waste, training staff, and involving all team members in sustainability efforts.Sustainable Menu Development: The episode delves into the challenges and strategies of developing sustainable menus, including assessing current practices, envisioning a sustainable future, and creating transition plans tailored to each business.Hospitality's Role in Sustainable Eating: Andrea explores how the hospitality industry can influence food systems and promote sustainable eating, emphasizing the need for understanding the source and production methods of food and drink.Advice for Personal Sustainability Journeys: Andrea encourages listeners to stay curious, creative, and empathetic towards others' positions on sustainability, highlighting the importance of starting from where people are and building from there.Conclusion: This episode of Talking Hospitality not only sheds light on the critical role of sustainability in the hospitality industry but also serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Andrea Zick's insights remind us that sustainability is not just a trend but a necessary evolution of the industry, driven by empathy, innovation, and a deep commitment to the planet and future generations. Join us in exploring these transformative ideas and take a step towards making a lasting impact in the world of hospitality.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sustainability01:12 Guest Introduction02:10 Defining Sustainability in a Business Context03:08 Importance of Communication...

Introduction:In this episode of Talking Hospitality, hosts Timothy R. Andrews and Tracey Rashid engage in a captivating conversation with Nick Clover, a seasoned entrepreneur in the hospitality sector. The episode delves into Nick's journey from starting as a 14-year-old working in a pub to establishing several successful companies in the hospitality industry.Why Listen to This Episode:This episode is a treasure trove of insights for hospitality professionals, especially those in leadership roles or aspiring to be. Nick Clover's story is not just about business success; it's a narrative of resilience, innovation, and a deep understanding of the hospitality industry. Listeners will gain valuable lessons on career development, the importance of people in the industry, and how to navigate the challenges and opportunities in hospitality.Key Points of Interest:Early Beginnings: Nick's journey in hospitality began at 14, working in a pub, which instilled in him the value of hard work and the importance of starting from the ground up.Building a Business: The episode explores how Nick transitioned from working in various hospitality roles to starting his own businesses, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship.Importance of People: A recurring theme is the significance of people in the hospitality industry, both as employees and customers, and how nurturing these relationships is crucial for business success.Overcoming Adversity: Nick shares his experiences during the recession, offering insights into resilience and the importance of adapting to changing circumstances.Industry Challenges: The discussion touches on issues like burnout, drug and alcohol problems in the industry, and how to address these challenges responsibly.Empowering the Next Generation: The episode emphasizes the importance of mentorship, training, and development in the hospitality industry, showcasing Nick's commitment to nurturing new talent.Leadership Insights: Nick provides valuable advice on leadership, stressing the balance between confidence and humility, and the importance of being authentic and approachable.Conclusion:This episode of Talking Hospitality is a must-listen for anyone in the hospitality industry seeking inspiration and practical advice. Nick Clover's journey and insights offer a unique perspective on building a successful career and business in hospitality, making it an invaluable resource for seasoned professionals and newcomers alike.SummaryIn this episode, Nick Clover shares his journey in the hospitality industry and how he built successful businesses like Appetite4Work and HJUK. He emphasizes the importance of onboarding and support in the industry and encourages more people to join. Nick also discusses the challenges and misconceptions in the industry and the impact of the Opra Awards. He shares his philosophy and principles in building businesses and offers advice for aspiring leaders. The episode concludes with a rapid-fire question round.Chapters00:00 Introduction02:07 Nick's Journey in Hospitality05:18 Starting Appetite for Work06:16 Importance of Onboarding and Support07:10 Passion for the Hospitality Industry08:09 Encouraging People to Join the Industry10:06 Challenges and Misconceptions in the Industry12:40 The Opra Awards15:39 Philosophy and Principles in Building Businesses17:35 Building HJUK and Otolo20:00 Staying Focused and Motivated23:38 Advice for Aspiring Leaders28:34 Rapid Fire Questions31:09 Conclusion

In this episode of Talking Hospitality, we delve into the fascinating world of drag and what lessons the hospitality industry can learn from them.SummaryThe Covid-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on the drag queen community, with performers losing their primary source of income. Many drag queens turned to digital platforms to perform for their fans, but it wasn't always enough to make ends meet. As the pandemic continued, drag queens found new ways to adapt, such as starting their own businesses or hosting outdoor events. The drag scene has evolved over the years, especially with the influence of RuPaul's Drag Race. During lockdown, drag queens used social media to create content and connect with their audience. Advice for those going through difficult times includes finding joy every day, surrounding yourself with good people, and maintaining a positive attitude. Whilst lockdown seems a distant memory, how are Drag Performers managing now?To help answer this question hosts Timothy R Andrews, Tracey Rashid, and Sarah Kettel explore the resilience and creativity of drag artists and the challenges they face. They are joined by the effervescent drag performers Mary O'Kart, Stephanie Von Clitz, and Linda Bacardi in one of our most of the wall episodes yet.TakeawaysThe Covid-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on the drag queen community, with performers losing their primary source of income.Drag queens turned to digital platforms to perform for their fans, but it wasn't always enough to make ends meet.Drag queens found new ways to adapt during the pandemic, such as starting their own businesses or hosting outdoor events.The drag scene has evolved over the years, especially with the influence of RuPaul's Drag Race.During lockdown, drag queens used social media to create content and connect with their audience.Advice for those going through difficult times includes finding joy every day, surrounding yourself with good people, and maintaining a positive attitude.TitlesThe Evolution of the Drag SceneUsing Social Media to Connect with FansSound Bites"The Covid-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the drag queen community.""Drag queens found new ways to adapt, such as starting their own businesses or hosting outdoor events.""Drag started as a necessity centuries ago when plays needed female characters, but they were played by men."Chapters00:00 The Impact of Covid-19 on the Drag Queen Community02:05 Adapting and Finding New Ways to Perform05:43 The Evolution of the Drag Scene08:06 Using Social Media to Connect with Fans11:56 Surviving and Continuing to Perform During Lockdown20:50 Supporting local drag artists25:12 The power of drag in bringing joy and inclusivity26:07 Advice for those facing difficult situations

Join Tracey Rashid and Timothy R. Andrews for a festive celebration of Christmas in a special episode featuring a host of Santas from around the world. The holiday spirit shines brightly in this special Christmas episode of Talking Hospitality, where hosts Tracey and Timothy engage in heartwarming and humorous discussions about the meaning of Christmas. The episode opens with a fun fact about the Statue of Liberty, the largest Christmas gift ever given, symbolizing friendship—setting a nostalgic tone for the holiday season. Tracey and Timothy R. delve into their own Christmas memories, sharing anecdotes that resonate with the importance of family and togetherness. Tracey fondly reminisces about Christmas celebrations filled with family traditions and the playful chaos brought by a beloved pet, while Timothy reflects on his Christmas Eve birthday, emphasizing the joy of spending quality time with loved ones. Their personal stories serve as a reminder of the special moments that define the holiday season.As the conversation unfolds, the hosts introduce a delightful cast of Santas who join them to share their experiences from the holiday season. Each Santa offers enchanting stories of joy and laughter, from unique gift requests to heartwarming moments that showcase the innocence and generosity of children. One Santa shares a particularly touching story about a child wishing for her mother’s happiness, illustrating the beautiful simplicity of children's desires during Christmas. This segment not only adds an element of magic to the episode but also reinforces the core message of the holiday: the importance of giving and spreading joy to others.The episode culminates in a lively discussion about Christmas traditions, where the Santas share their favorite ways to celebrate the season. From the joy of sharing meals with the community to the fun of cracking Christmas crackers, the Santas bring humor and warmth to the conversation. Their laughter and camaraderie create an inviting atmosphere, encouraging listeners to reflect on their holiday traditions and the joy they bring. As the episode concludes, listeners are left with a sense of warmth and inspiration, encouraging them to embrace the spirit of Christmas with their families and friends, and to carry the message of kindness and joy into the new year.They discuss the joy of giving, sharing cherished Christmas memories, and the magic that surrounds the holiday season. Listeners will hear heartwarming stories from the Santas, including their favourite traditions and the importance of family gatherings during this time. The Santas share delightful anecdotes about children’s wishes, showcasing the innocence and joy of the season. With laughter and reflections on the spirit of Christmas, this episode promises to spread warmth and cheer for our Hospitality community who are often working this time of year.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Christmas Memories02:22 The Spirit of Giving and Santa Claus06:12 Santa's Helper and Christmas Traditions09:15 Spreading Joy and Helping Others12:30 Vacation and Reindeer Games15:27 Staying on the Nice List and ConclusionTakeaways: The largest Christmas gift ever given was the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of friendship. Christmas is a time for friends, family, and creating cherished memories together. Santa emphasizes the importance of kindness and joy during the holiday season. Children should listen to their parents and strive to be good all year round. Christmas traditions vary, but sharing meals and time with loved ones is universal. The connection between parents and children during Christmas is a beautiful and nostalgic experience. Links referenced in this episode:<a...

In this engaging episode of "Talking Hospitality," hosts Timothy R Andrews and Tracey Rashid welcome the esteemed chef and restaurateur, Cyrus Todiwala OBE. Recorded at the bustling Cafe Spice Namaste, the episode delves into Todiwala's inspiring journey in the hospitality industry.Guest: Cyrus Todiwala OBEHosts: Timothy R Andrews & Tracey RashidKey Points:Cyrus Todiwala's Early Culinary Interests: Todiwala shares his childhood experiences that sparked his interest in cooking, including his early encounters with food while dealing with asthma.Career Beginnings: His journey in hospitality began with a diploma in India, leading to a significant role at the Taj Mahal Hotel in Bombay.Transition to the UK: Todiwala discusses the challenges and hurdles he faced in establishing himself in the UK hospitality scene, including a 10-year battle with the Home Office.Establishing Cafe Spice Namaste: Insights into the establishment of his renowned restaurant and the unique challenges he faced.Personal Life and Support: Todiwala highlights the importance of his wife's support in his career and personal life.Community Contribution: His involvement in setting up the world's first Asian and Oriental School of Catering in Hackney Community College.Quick Fire Round: A light-hearted segment where Todiwala answers rapid-fire questions, revealing more about his personality and preferences.Why Listen to This Episode?If you're a hospitality professional seeking inspiration and practical insights, this episode is a must-listen. Cyrus Todiwala's journey from a diploma student in India to a celebrated chef and restaurateur in the UK is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of supportive relationships. His story is not just about culinary excellence but also about navigating bureaucratic challenges, contributing to the community, and building a legacy in the hospitality industry. This episode offers a blend of personal anecdotes, professional wisdom, and engaging storytelling that will resonate with anyone passionate about hospitality.Conclusion:This episode of "Talking Hospitality" is more than just a conversation; it's a journey through the life of a culinary visionary. Cyrus Todiwala's experiences, challenges, and triumphs offer invaluable lessons for anyone in the hospitality industry. His story is a powerful reminder of the impact one can have through dedication, creativity, and a deep love for the art of hospitality.Chapters:00:00Immigrants in the UK hospitality landscape01:10Cyrus Todiwala's journey to the UK02:04The birth of Cafe Spice03:18Culinary interest and early experiences05:07Revamping Indian cuisine in the UK06:25Challenges in establishing Cafe Spice Namaste08:16Breaking barriers and changing perceptions09:36Advice for immigrants starting a business in hospitality16:04Resources and support systems for immigrants21:22Cyrus Todiwala's involvement in MasterChef22:20The importance of Cyrus Todiwala's wife in his journey24:03Quick fire round