This episode delves into the topic of neurodiversity within the hospitality industry, particularly focusing on ADHD. Michael, alongside guest Gareth, explores how recognizing and accommodating neurodiversity can lead to better business outcomes, improved staff retention, unleashed innovation, and enhanced employee wellbeing. Gareth shares his personal journey from growing up in a hospitality family to experiencing burnout as a hospitality manager, eventually leading to his ADHD diagnosis. He discusses the impact of this diagnosis on his career and personal life, and the steps he has taken to adapt his work environment to his needs. The conversation highlights the importance of creating a workplace culture that is open, understanding, and supportive of neurodiverse employees. Gareth also shares his vision for a neurodiversity-friendly hospitality industry and offers advice for both neurodiverse individuals and leaders in the sector.

Connect with Gareth:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gareth-p-rees/

https://www.instagram.com/adhospitalityd/

https://adhospitalityd.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/attention-deficit-hospitality-disorder/posts/?feedView=all

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In this episode, the discussion centers around the significant impact of investing in frontline teams to enhance business performance in the hospitality industry. Geoffrey Toffetti shares their journey from modest beginnings to becoming a leader in optimizing sales through frontline engagement. The conversation covers building a people-first culture, the evolution from consulting to a SaaS model due to COVID-19, and the role of trust and leadership in fostering a productive environment. The episode highlights practical approaches to improve employee engagement, sales techniques, and the importance of consistent customer experiences. Insights into the potential of AI in enhancing operational efficiency and the future focus on integrating food and beverage services into the holistic revenue strategies for hospitality businesses are also discussed.

Connect with Geoffrey:

https://frontlinepg.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gtoffetti/

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In this episode, James Bates from QVO Hospitality shares the journey from the inception of his business in 2014 to its current status with multiple restaurant locations. Over nearly a decade, James and his team have navigated various challenges, including Brexit, COVID-19, and fluctuating economic conditions. Throughout their journey, they have utilized the EOS framework to systematize and scale their operations. The discussion delves into how the company maintains momentum and clarity in an industry fraught with difficulties, the importance of culture and values, and the strategic moves that have allowed them to expand. James also discusses their latest venture in Chester and offers insights into maintaining drive and ambition in the face of adversity. With stories of daily operations, challenges, and insights into their future plans, this episode offers a comprehensive look at what it takes to grow and sustain a hospitality business.

Connect with James:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-bates-b1128060/

https://www.instagram.com/jaymaray_/

[email protected]

www.maray.co.uk

www.buyers-club.co.uk

www.theoneoclockgun.pub

Book:

https://uk.bookshop.org/a/8596/9781936661831

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In this conversation, Howard and Michael explore the themes of disconnecting from technology, fostering community, and nurturing genuine human connections. Howard, who organised 'offline dinners,' shares insights from his journey from the stock market to co-founding a successful company, Invaluable, and his realisation of the importance of human interaction.

They discuss the challenges and rewards of stepping out of one's comfort zone, the pros and cons of technology in our lives, and Howard's book, 'Leave Your Phone at the Door.' The discussion highlights the value of vulnerability, the significant impact of small gestures, and how real life begins beyond the screen.

They also touch upon the essence of true success, and the transformative potential of simple, human interactions in making the world a better place.

Connect with Howard:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-lewis-offline/

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Leave-Your-Phone-Door-OFFLINE/dp/1635769396

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/howardlewisoffline

Personal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009863233117

OFFLINE Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064994021337

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@howardlewisoffline?_

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In this episode, Michael welcomes Sam Coulstock to discuss the challenges and opportunities in preparing the next generation for the workforce. Sam shares his journey from being an aspiring chef to spearheading Inspired Community Group, a Community Interest Company aimed at bridging the gap between young people and the hospitality industry. They discuss the importance of understanding the needs of Generation Z, the perception issues surrounding careers in hospitality, and the impact of targeted career guidance. Sam also elaborates on the motivator program, which trains young professionals to inspire students in schools, and talks about the necessity of a sustainable funding model to support these initiatives. Listeners will gain insights into how businesses can proactively engage with and help shape the future workforce while addressing critical societal needs.

Connect with Sam:

https://inspiredgroup.org.uk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/samcoulstock/

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In this insightful episode, Michael engages with Jo Harley to discuss the importance of value-led businesses, the power of feedback, and how putting people first can be a competitive edge. Jo shares her journey in the hospitality industry, from starting accidentally in a pub to working with Bacardi and eventually co-founding Korero and Hendrick and Hyde. She emphasizes the importance of having structured conversations to ensure employee satisfaction and retention. Jo also touches on the role of AI in improving business operations and the insights gained from the 'Best Places to Work' survey in hospitality. The conversation is filled with practical tips on how to build a positive work culture and ensure effective communication within organizations.

Connect with Jo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-harley/

https://www.hellokorero.co/

https://www.hendrickandhyde.com/

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In this episode, the guest is Greg from Saira Hospitality, an organization dedicated to transforming the hospitality industry by helping local communities find meaningful employment. Greg discusses the origins of Saira Hospitality, which was founded by Harsha L'Acqua with a revolutionary idea to hire local talent for luxury resorts, avoiding the conventional practice of flying in staff or poaching from nearby operators. The conversation delves into Saira Hospitality's pop-up hospitality school model that partners with hotels to train local community members, focusing on life skills and operational training. Greg shares his journey of joining the organization and his role in expanding its impact, particularly in London. He emphasizes the importance of personal interaction in recruitment and how Saira Hospitality screens candidates meticulously to ensure they are a good fit for the operators they partner with. The episode also touches on the benefits for operators, including lower turnover rates and a more engaged, diverse workforce. Greg offers advice for leaders looking to make a positive impact in their communities and shares personal insights into balancing a demanding career with family life.

Connect with Ben:

https://www.sairahospitality.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-fr%C3%BCchtenicht-8070569a/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/harsha-l-acqua-9719877/

Books:

Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect

https://uk.bookshop.org/a/8596/9781529146813

Life on Earth:

https://uk.bookshop.org/a/8596/9780008368357

Born To Run:

https://uk.bookshop.org/a/8596/9781861978776

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In this episode, Michael engages in an insightful conversation with Ben, co-founder of Sona, about the transformative potential of AI in the hospitality industry. They explore how AI can serve as an enabler for operators, enhancing the efficiency of hospitality businesses by optimizing workforce management and improving guest experiences. Ben shares his journey from being an engineer to building technology companies focused on frontline workforces, detailing the creation of Sona and its impact on hospitality and retail sectors. They discuss the significant benefits of AI, such as providing data-driven insights and automating scheduling to free up managers' time for more critical tasks. Furthermore, they address the challenges of integrating AI into operations, the importance of involving frontline workers in the adoption of new technologies, and the rapid pace of AI advancements. Ben also emphasizes the need for businesses to adopt AI tools early to avoid being left behind and the potential for AI to revolutionize various business operations.

Connect with Ben:

https://www.getsona.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/talkingquickly/

https://www.getsona.com/resources/reports-and-resources/the-impact-of-artificial-intelligence-in-hospitality

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In this episode, we delve into the journey of Vimal Arumugam, the co-founder of Baked Bird, a unique baked chicken concept. Vimal shares the inception story of Baked Bird, which began from a shared love for chicken wings and evolved into a thriving hospitality business. He discusses the challenges faced in transitioning from a corporate career to the food industry, the importance of differentiating from competitors by offering a healthy alternative to fried chicken, and the significance of community support. Vimal also touches on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the strategic decisions behind their business growth, and their future aspirations for Baked Bird. From starting as a weekend market stall to opening their first brick-and-mortar location, this episode captures the essence of passion-driven entrepreneurship and the relentless pursuit of innovation in the food industry.

Connect with Vimal:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vimal-arumugam-77a51956/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/baked-bird/

https://bakedbird.co.uk/

https://www.instagram.com/bakedbird

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In this episode of the Hospitality Mavericks podcast, host Michael welcomes guest Natalie Dunning, who shares her journey of growing up in a hospitality family and building her agency, Kitch Social. They discuss the importance of creating super fans, engaging with communities, and the crucial role of maintaining a human connection in the hospitality industry. Natalie emphasizes the significance of clear purpose, strategy, and team alignment in fostering customer loyalty and a supportive work culture. The conversation also explores practical advice on leveraging technology, empowering teams, and maintaining work-life balance.

Connect with Natalie:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliedunning/

https://kitchsocial.com/

Book Recommendation:

https://uk.bookshop.org/a/8596/9781780725901

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