In this episode we sit down with Jai McNaughton, Talent & Acquisition Manager at Accor, to explore how purpose-driven hiring and people-first leadership are shaping the future of hospitality.

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Hamilton, General Manager of Crown Towers Perth, for an honest and insightful conversation about leadership, pressure, and what it really takes to lead at the highest level in hospitality.

From managing high-performing teams to navigating the realities of long hours, expectations, and responsibility, Chris shares his perspective on work-life balance, resilience, and the culture behind exceptional service.

In this episode of Back of House, Front of Mind, we sit down with Amanda Muir, CEO of Alike - the peak body of Peer Support Groups in WA to discuss what Peer Support looks like to create mentally healthy teams.

In this episode of Back of House, Front of Mind, we sit down with Courtney James Smith — business owner, hospitality dude .. and Director.

Courtney is the co-founder of Someday Coffee Co., co-director of Dumbo Gelato, and an early WA investor in the Guzman y Gomez journey. But beyond the businesses, Courtney is known around Perth for something else — showing up for the community.

We first met Courtney when he volunteered his time and resources to support the Healthy Hospo Soccer Match in 2024, and it left us curious to learn more about the person behind the positive energy.

In this conversation, we talk about:

• Courtney’s journey through hospitality and entrepreneurship
• The mindset behind building businesses
• Staying grounded while juggling responsibility and growth
• Why community and showing up for others still matters

If you’ve ever wondered how someone balances ambition with a good attitude and a genuine connection to their community, then this one’s for you.

In this episode of Back of House, Front of Mind, we’re joined by Erin English-O’Connell, Secretary and Board Member of Healthy Mind Menu and National Manager of Social Inclusion & Engagement, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Compass Group Australia.

With over 25 years’ experience in hospitality and leadership, Erin shares insights on inclusive workplace culture, respectful behaviours, psychosocial safety, and why people-first leadership is essential for long-term success in hospitality and service-based industries.

In this episode of Back of House, Front of Mind, we’re joined by John Parker, Multi-Property Director of Human Resources, and Meerna Shah, Multi-Property Human Resources Manager atMarriott International, supporting teams across The Westin Perth, Aloft Perth, Four Points by Sheraton Perth, and Courtyard by Marriott, Murdoch.

They share practical insights into building inclusive, people-first workplaces in hospitality- where wellbeing, leadership, and culture are treated as business priorities, not afterthoughts.

This conversation goes beyond policies and procedures. It’s about care, accountability, and creating environments where hospitality teams can stay well and do what they love for the long term.

🎧 Out now, listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or on the website www.healthymindmenu.au

With over 12 years of experience in hospitality, Ella Ogden brings a deep-rooted passion for the industry that began at a young age. Growing up in a family where hospitality was always a topic of conversation, Ella started her career as a dishie at The Windsor and worked her way up to other various roles.

Ella's journey took her beyond Perth after completing her studies at WAAPA, leading to dynamic careers in both the hospitality and film industries. She simultaneously managed roles in venues across London, Sydney, and Melbourne, all while building a successful career as a marketing executive, production manager, and film festival event manager in the Film & TV industry.

After years of balancing fine dining restaurants and bars at night with a creative career by day, Ella returned to Perth during the Melbourne lockdown, ready to leave the film industry behind. Her transition into a marketing and creative role within the family business felt like the perfect culmination of her creative expertise and lifelong hospitality experience.

In this episode, we chat with Bradley Woods, CEO of the Australian Hotels Association in WA (AHA(WA)) and one of Australia’s leading political advocates for the hotel, tourism, and hospitality industries. As Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of AHA(WA), Bradley is responsible for steering WA’s tourism and hospitality sectors through a range of complex challenges. With nearly 30 years in the field, he’s dedicated to shaping public policy, providing advocacy, and offering training and events to support AHA(WA) members. Bradley has led WA’s hospitality landscape through pivotal moments, including the sector’s COVID-19 recovery, all while helping shape a vibrant future for WA tourism. Join us as Bradley shares his insights on the evolving challenges and exciting opportunities facing the industry.

In this episode, we sit down with John McAndrew, also known as "John from Insurance." John is the Bar Manager and Owner of Frisk Small Bar, Perth's neighbourhood gin bar, a passionate mental health advocate, occasional marriage celebrant, proud Frenchie owner to Bouli, and a sober bartender. He shares his top three life tips: “Get a PT, a therapist, and a dog.” Tune in on Spotify and Apple Podcasts now!

Shirley Yeung is the Group Operations Manager for Foxtrot Hospitality (Foxtrot Unicorn, Edward & Ida's and Nieuw Ruin) and the co-founder of Mix Haus, a non-for-profit organisation for women in hospitality. She has over 10 years experience in the industry, with her expertise behind the bar and has become one of Australia's best bartenders. She is a loud voice advocating for women in hospitality as well as supporting the growth of hospitality as a profession. She runs some of the best bars in WA alongside having some of the best teams working alongside her.