Hospitality Meets... with Phil Street

Summary:

This week, Phil sits down with master baker and founder of Bread Ahead (https://www.breadahead.com), Matthew Jones for an episode packed with laughter and life lessons. From cheeky kitchen pranks to the transformative power of baking, Matthew’s stories offer a delightful mix of humour and heartfelt insights. Get ready to be entertained by tales of culinary chaos and inspired by Matthew’s journey from pastry novice to successful bakery mogul.

Highlights of the Episode:

Pastry Work and Meditation:

• Phil and Matthew explore the zen-like state one can achieve through the repetitive, skilled labour of baking. Matthew shares his experiences of rolling croissants at lightning speed while being in a meditative state, emphasising the serenity found in mastering a craft.

Kitchen Pranks and Mishaps:

• Prepare to laugh out loud as Matthew recounts his infamous faux crème brûlée prank involving parsnip puree and Tabasco, which accidentally found its way to a restaurant customer's table. This story is a hilarious reminder of the unpredictable fun in a professional kitchen.

From Struggles to Success:

• Matthew candidly discusses his battle with alcoholism and how he rebuilt his life and career with Bread Ahead. His journey is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the transformative power of baking, both professionally and personally.

Three Key Takeaways:

Mastery Before Meditation:

• Achieving a meditative state through work is possible, but it requires dedication and skill mastery first. Whether baking croissants or practicing any craft, time and effort are essential ingredients for tranquillity.

Live, Laugh, Bake:

Humour and fun can be integral parts of the kitchen environment. Even amidst the high-pressure demands of culinary work, moments of levity and playful pranks can create lasting memories and camaraderie.

Personal Growth and Redemption:

• Overcoming personal struggles, such as addiction, can lead to profound personal and professional evolution. Matthew’s story from battling alcoholism to establishing a successful bakery illustrates the potential for recovery and growth.

Tune in for an episode that blends the joy of baking with heartfelt personal reflections, packed with laughs and invaluable life lessons.

The Guest

Matthew Jones - Founder and owner of Bread Ahead Bakery in Borough Market, London. A passionate baker and entrepreneur, Matthew's journey from turbulent times to triumphant success is as inspiring as it is entertaining. He is currently working on his memoir, "How Baking Saved My Life," and a children's Christmas book, "The Magical Mince Pies."

Instagram - @breadaheadbakery

X - @BreadAhead

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breadaheadbakeryschool

Show Partners

A big shout out to Today’s show partner, RotaCloud, the people management platform for shift-based teams.

RotaCloud lets managers create and share rotas, record attendance, and manage annual leave in minutes — all from a single, web-based app.

It makes work simple for your team, too, allowing them to check their rotas, request holiday, and even pick up extra shifts straight from their phones.

Try RotaCloud’s time-saving tools today by heading to https://rotacloud.com/phil

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Someone once said to me that coffee tastes better when it's doing some good. Well today, we can apply that same mindset to Tea.

Summary: In this engaging and insightful episode of "Hospitality Meets," Phil sits down with the inspiring Roshana Gammampila, who shares her incredible journey from a corporate career in London to managing a tea estate in Sri Lanka. This episode is filled with fascinating discussions, enlightening takeaways, and a sprinkle of fun as Roshana dives into the world of tea, sustainability, and social impact.

Key Takeaways:

1. Cultural Connections and Challenges:

• Roshana talks about Sri Lanka's Palm Tee community, their economic struggles, and the importance of fair compensation for tea producers.
• Discover the traditional methods in tea production and the effort to revolutionize it for modern sustainability.

1. Entrepreneurial Journey:

• Roshana shares her unique career path, from international aid to corporate tech and finally to entrepreneurship in the tea industry.
• Learn how her background in social justice and non-linear career moves have shaped her approach to business.

1. The Farm-to-Table Model:

• A deep dive into Roshana’s vision for a farm-to-table tea brand in the UK, aiming to shorten supply chains and improve economic outcomes for tea workers.
• Understand the benefits of this model, including lower consumer prices, better retailer margins, and higher quality products.

1. Life Transition:

• The episode sheds light on Roshana's personal shifts, influenced by family moves and adopting two sons, highlighting the balance between work and unexpected parental responsibilities.

1. Tea Industry Insights:

• Eye-opening details about the financial and physical struggles in the tea industry, focusing on the disparity of earnings between producers and retailers.
• Fun fact: The origin story behind the vanilla-infused tea that Roshana's estate produces, inspired by Melbourne's tea culture.

1. Product and Packaging:

• Roshana’s dedication to sustainability shines through as she explains the 100% biodegradable packaging of their products.
• Hear about the painstaking process of perfecting the tea product, tackling issues like the drying process for quality consistency.

1. Future Horizons:

• The exciting future plans for mainstream retail distribution and partnerships in hospitality for in-room tea services.
• Roshana reveals upcoming opportunities for online purchases, making their delicious and ethically produced teas more accessible.

Fun Moments:

• Phil enjoying a cup of Roshana's vanilla-infused tea during the interview.
• Roshana reflecting on the unpredictability and learning experiences of running a tea estate.
• The surprising realisation of career alignment with her early aspirations, making for a heart warming listen.

Listen Now: Join Phil and Roshana for an episode that not only delves into serious social and industry issues but also brims with personal stories, passion for tea, and ambitions to create meaningful change. Tune in for a delightful, informative, and inspiring conversation!

Contact & Follow:

Guest:

Roshana Gammampila - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/devagiri_estate/

Devagiri Estate - https://www.devagiri-teas.com/

Don't miss this heartfelt and inspiring episode to get your dose of motivation and perhaps a sip of something new and refreshing!

The Sponsor

Today’s episode comes to you in partnership with RotaCloud, the people management platform for shift-based teams.

RotaCloud lets managers create and share rotas, record attendance, and manage annual leave in minutes — all from a single, web-based app.

It makes work simple for your team, too, allowing them to check their rotas, request holiday, and even pick up extra shifts straight from their phones.

Try RotaCloud’s time-saving tools today by heading to https://rotacloud.com/phil

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

We're thrilled to announce the latest episode of Hospitality Meets featuring the truly brilliant James Peck, MD of Ember Restaurant, No13 Cocktail Bar and The Four Pears Pub! 🤩

There's a story as to how James and I met which I retell in the podcast but join us for a delightful blend of fun, laughter, and insightful conversations.

Here are some highlights you won't want to miss:

1⃣ Kitchen Comedy: You’ll chuckle too hard at James's story about accidentally stabbing his hand while multitasking during an opening week—let's just say it was a sharp lesson in focusing on one task at a time! 😂🖐️

2⃣ Team Spirit: Dive into how the supportive and inclusive environment at Restaurant Ember not only keeps the kitchen calm and organised but also fosters creativity and dedication among the chefs. Teamwork truly makes the dream work! 👨‍🍳👩‍🍳

3⃣ Mentorship Magic: Hear James reflect on his transition from the military to the culinary world and how his journey shaped his leadership style. He's a true advocate for constructive feedback and has some real gems on team development and mentorship. 🌟

4⃣ Resilience and Growth: From packed meal mishaps in the army to winning accolades in high-pressure cooking competitions, James’s journey is a testament to grit and growth. His anecdotes, including the humorous "courgettes and cucumbers" sandwich saga, are both inspiring and endearing.

Don't miss this episode that perfectly balances humour, wisdom, and the essence of hospitality! Tune in now and let us know your favourite takeaway! 🎧📈

Enjoy!

The Guest

Instagram - jamespecckk

Restaurant Ember - https://www.instagram.com/embernenecourt/

No13 Bar - https://www.instagram.com/no13_bar/

The Four Pears - https://www.instagram.com/thefourpears/

The Sponsor

Today’s episode comes to you in partnership with RotaCloud, the people management platform for shift-based teams.

RotaCloud lets managers create and share rotas, record attendance, and manage annual leave in minutes — all from a single, web-based app.

It makes work simple for your team, too, allowing them to check their rotas, request holiday, and even pick up extra shifts straight from their phones.

Try RotaCloud’s time-saving tools today by heading to https://rotacloud.com/phil

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Hospitality Meets - Episode 200

Welcome to the 200th episode of "Hospitality Meets"! In this landmark celebration, we delve into some of the best bits from the last 100 episodes including the extravagant tales, pivotal moments, missteps and inspiring journeys shared by our incredible guests. Each story is a testament to the laughter, dedication, creativity, and resilience inherent in the world of hospitality.

What you can expect in this episode (Bed in, it's epic!):-

• Eddy Tannous haircut disasters
• Bharti Radix scary board room meetings
• Phil Howard and working underwater
• Jane Sunley and naught dry store tales
• Phil Street and the Full Monty
• Sally Beck Rescuing high profile deals
• Tim Andrews tale of ultimate humanity
• Benoit Blin and his bagpipe music
• Peter Hancock's celebrity master chef bungle
• Patricia Dickie and Surreal rock star moments
• Guillaume Marly buying monkeys
• Veryan Palmer and the eccentric requests of poodles
• Zoe Watts and brushes with royalty
• Shereen Ritchie and Virtual Call mishaps
• Andrew Evers and technological liars
• Andrew Stembridge and learning a careers worth of experience in 18 months
• Michelle Whittemore and high calibre wardrobe malfunctions
• Matt Townley and James Bonds clothes
• Robert Cook and Lord Rupert Whoopsie
• Olajide Alabi on becoming an unwanted poster boy
• Danny Pecorelli and massive wedding cakes, Johnny Wilkinson & Cameron Diaz
• Trudi Parr and Email Campaigns
• Claire Coghill and putting fires out... literally
• David Taylor and working on Nights
• Adrian Martin and being flung in the deep end
• Adam Handling and his Great British Menu journey
• Conor O'Leary and the Ferret
• Robin Hutson on Hotel Du Vin Start-up
• Raymond Blanc and the ultimate tale of boldness

I'm sure I've missed many others but without question, hearing all of my guests anecdotes and stories has been the real highlight for me.

Join us as we celebrate the essence of hospitality through these captivating stories and revelations. Thank you for being part of our journey to 200 episodes! Here's to many more extraordinary tales and triumphs of laughter and learning in the world of hospitality.

Enjoy!

The Sponsor

Today’s episode comes to you in partnership with RotaCloud, the people management platform for shift-based teams.

RotaCloud lets managers create and share rotas, record attendance, and manage annual leave in minutes — all from a single, web-based app.

It makes work simple for your team, too, allowing them to check their rotas, request holiday, and even pick up extra shifts straight from their phones.

Try RotaCloud’s time-saving tools today by heading to https://rotacloud.com/phil

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

In this lively episode, I sat down with the multifaceted The Rt Honourable The Viscount Thurso, also known as quite simply, John (Watch how I blunder that at the beginning). This episode takes listeners on a rollercoaster ride through John's unconventional career, filled with hilarious anecdotes, unique experiences, and invaluable leadership insights. From mastering the art of hospitality to navigating the political landscape, John shares his wisdom with a touch of humour that makes this episode a delightful listen.

Key Takeaways:

1. Leadership through Experience and Mentorship: John's career showcases the importance of hands-on experience and learning from mentors. His journey from a dishwasher at his father's hotel to high-stake management roles exemplifies how diverse experiences can shape a unique leadership style.
2. Ingenuity in Business Solutions: Highlighting his creative turnaround at Champneys, John discusses the development of the “Founders Club” to replace problematic timeshare agreements. This inventive approach underlines the significance of adaptability and innovative thinking in business.
3. Valuing Hospitality Skills Beyond the Industry: John talks about how his children leveraged hospitality skills in their diverse careers, emphasising that traits like empathy and customer service excellence are universally valuable. His points underline that hospitality offers foundational skills that can enhance any professional journey.

Fun and Humorous Highlights:

• Butcher's Icebreaker: One of the standout humorous moments is John recounting his time in the butcher's shop, where he offered chewing tobacco to his colleagues, a gesture that earned him an unexpected acceptance.
• Pub Shenanigans: John shares a pub experience where he became part of the group after a lead butcher vouched for him. Friendship formed amidst laughter, blending work with camaraderie.
• Paris Misadventures: Despite starting his job in Paris with a non-existent command of French, a light-hearted tale ensues as John undertakes a crash course in French, just two weeks before his move. His recounting of humorous conversations with a Glaswegian colleague in French adds a comedic flair to his professional struggles.

Tune in for: A perfect blend of humour and wisdom, this episode is a treasure trove of life lessons, career advice, and laugh-out-loud moments. Whether you’re in hospitality or any other field, John's stories are bound to leave you inspired and entertained.

The Guest

John Archibald Sinclair, 3rd Viscount Thurso, known as John Thurso, is a Scottish businessman, Liberal Democrat politician, and hereditary peer. Born in 1953, he was educated at Eton College and spent much of his early career in the tourism and hospitality industry, managing prominent hotels and serving as CEO of the Champneys Group. Thurso first entered Parliament in 1995 as a hereditary peer in the House of Lords, serving until the House of Lords Act 1999 removed most hereditary peers.

In 2001, he was elected as the MP for Caithness, Sutherland, and Easter Ross, a seat he held until 2015. During his time in the House of Commons, he served as chair of the Finance and Services Committee. After losing his seat in 2015, he returned to the House of Lords in 2016 and later became Lord Lieutenant of Caithness. He has also chaired VisitScotland since 2016 and holds leadership roles in tourism and hospitality organisations and now holds the President role at the Institute of Hospitality.

The Sponsor

Today’s episode comes to you in partnership with RotaCloud, the people management platform for shift-based teams.

RotaCloud lets managers create and share rotas, record attendance, and manage annual leave in minutes — all from a single, web-based app.

It makes work simple for your team, too, allowing them to check their rotas, request holiday, and even pick up extra shifts straight from their phones.

Try RotaCloud’s time-saving tools today by heading to https://rotacloud.com/phil

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

In this lively and insightful episode of "Hospitality Meets," I welcomed the ever-engaging Conor O'Leary, the Managing Director at the iconic Gleneagles Hotel. Buckle up for a mix of humour, wild anecdotes, and invaluable career lessons as Conor takes us on his remarkable journey through the world of hospitality!

Highlights from the Episode:

From Tokyo Dreams to Dubai Realities:

Conor shares his career trajectory, initially planning a move to Tokyo but ultimately finding himself in the bustling hospitality scene of Dubai. Three years at the Grand Hyatt offered immense growth and solidified his interest in international markets.

The Return to the UK:

Despite initial hesitations about returning home, the compelling vision of Gleneagles' new ownership lured Conor back to the UK in 2016. He discusses the thrilling transformation of Gleneagles from a golf hotel to a luxury lifestyle destination.

Crazy Ferret Fiascos:

Ever curious about how a stray ferret can upend an evening? Conor narrates his hilarious encounter with a ferret found at home, detailing the ensuing chaos with his dog, cat, and daughter's reactions. This amusing story alone is worth the listen!

Leadership and Cultural Adaptations:

Conor and Phil delve into the importance of adapting leadership styles to different cultural environments, contrasting Dubai’s top-down approach with London’s employee-centric style. Conor emphasises communication and flexibility as key leadership traits.

Early Career Missteps and Learnings:

From misadvising guests on wine to confronting a chef about his sauce, Conor's early days were filled with learning curves. His proactive approach to self-improvement, like buying culinary guides, highlights a thirst for knowledge that listeners will find inspiring.

Hospitality's Sliding Doors:

Conor reflects on pivotal career decisions, like working at the Royal Garden Hotel and later choosing between roles in Hong Kong and the Ritz in London. These “sliding door moments” shaped his path, offering listeners insights into the significance of career choices.

From Beefeaters to Banquets:

Stories from his early years, including working at a beefeater restaurant and managing bustling banqueting events, illustrate the wide array of experiences that have built Conor’s robust hospitality expertise.

Gleneagles’ Transformation:

Hear about the substantial investment and renovations at Gleneagles after its acquisition by a dedicated private family. The addition of 55+ activities and a shift towards a family-friendly luxury experience under Conor's leadership is nothing short of inspiring.

Join Phil and Conor for an episode that perfectly blends profound takeaways with humorous tales from the hospitality trenches. Whether you’re in the industry or simply enjoy a well-told story, this episode offers a delightful dose of both!

Tune in now and get ready for a fascinating ride!

Make sure to subscribe to "Hospitality Meets" for more captivating conversations with industry leaders and follow us on social media for the latest updates. Have a funny hospitality story or key takeaway from this episode? Share it with us using #HospitalityMeets.

The Guest

Conor’s hospitality career began in London’s bustling bar and restaurant scene, which led to senior F&B and leadership roles in some of the UK and the Middle East’s finest five-star hotels.

Immediately prior to joining the team, he led the Hyatt group’s largest food and beverage operation in the world at the Grand Hyatt in Dubai.

A Master Innholder, a St Julian Scholar and an honorary member of the Academy of Culinary Arts, Conor joined Gleneagles as Hotel Manager in 2016 before being promoted to General Manager. He took the reins as Managing Director shortly thereafter to lead the team through the biggest period of change and investment in the hotel’s 100-year history including a five-year renovation programme and the launch of a brand-new hotel and members’ club, Gleneagles Townhouse, in Edinburgh.

During this time, Conor has led Gleneagles to win a host of industry awards, including The Times and Sunday Times ‘Hotel of The Year’ 2024; No.10 Best Resorts in the World in the 2023 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards; Best Hotel in the World in Virtuoso’s Best of the Best Awards 2022; Golf World Magazine’s No.1 Golf Resort in Britain & Ireland, 2019 – 2023; and Employer of the Year in the 2024 Cateys. He’s been ranked among the 50 most influential people in British Luxury Brands in the Walpole Power List and was named Hotelier of the Year in the 2023 Hotel Cateys.

In 2022, Her Majesty The Queen approved the appointment of Conor as Honorary Catering Advisor to the Ministry of Defence, which saw him taking the rank of major general (hon) to independently review and report on catering in the British Armed Forces.

LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/conor-o-leary-38820571

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/conor_ol/

The Sponsor

Today’s episode comes to you in partnership with RotaCloud, the people management platform for shift-based teams.

RotaCloud lets managers create and share rotas, record attendance, and manage annual leave in minutes — all from a single, web-based app.

It makes work simple for your team, too, allowing them to check their rotas, request holiday, and even pick up extra shifts straight from their phones.

Try RotaCloud’s time-saving tools today by heading to https://rotacloud.com/phil

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of "Hospitality Meets," we join Phil as he walks alongside the legendary Charlie Hodson, an unwavering advocate for mental health in the hospitality industry. Together, they embark on a meaningful walk for well-being in support of Hospitality Action, an organization that played a pivotal role in saving Charlie's life.

Key Points:

Introduction and Setting:

Phil shares his excitement about taking this unique episode format on the road, literally, with his close friend Charlie Hodson.

Walk for Well-Being:

Charlie reveals the inspiration behind the "Walk for Well-Being" initiative, conceived by Craig Prentice to promote mental health and community support post-lockdown.

Personal Journey:

Charlie openly discusses his personal battles with mental health, alcoholism, and how Hospitality Action became his lifeline.

Support and Impact:

Phil and Charlie delve into the importance of supporting Hospitality Action and the positive impact it has on countless lives within the hospitality sector.

Challenges and Determination:

Despite his monumental aversion to walking, Charlie set out on an ambitious trek from Norwich to Battersea Park, driven by his desire to give back and raise awareness about mental health.

Public Support:

The overwhelming support from friends, strangers, and the wider community has been a beacon of encouragement for Charlie throughout his journey.

Overcoming Obstacles:

Charlie shares the physical and emotional obstacles he faced during the walk, emphasising the parallels to challenges in mental health and resilience.

Call to Action:

The episode wraps up with heartfelt advice from Charlie: ask, listen, and support those struggling with mental health. Remember, help is always available from organisations like Hospitality Action and the Samaritans.

Quotes:

Charlie encapsulates the essence of the journey with this powerful message:

“If between all of us... we can help change just one life through what I think is going to end up being about 151 miles of walking and talking and sharing... surely, is that not what we should all be thinking about?”Links & Resources:

• Hospitality Action:
• Website
• Donations:
• Support Charlie’s Walk for Well-Being here
• Samaritans:
• Samaritans
• or call 116 123 (UK & ROI)
• Charlies Original Story
• https://www.hospitalitymeets.co.uk/171-hospitality-meets-charlie-hodson-the-light-that-exists-after-the-dark/

Join Phil and Charlie on this remarkable journey, and together, let's bring hope, support, and a voice to those in need within our hospitality family. Listen to the full episode to immerse yourself in this extraordinary story of resilience and brotherhood.

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Today, we have a remarkable guest joining us — Claire Llewellin-Davis, the dynamic Managing Director of The Lensbury. Claire's journey is a fascinating tale of resilience, adaptability, and bold career moves.

✨ In This Episode:

Adventures in Language and Lands

• From studying languages in France and Germany to teaching in Japan, Claire's story kicks off with vibrant globe-trotting adventures that would make even Carmen Sandiego jealous.

Military Makeover

• Learn how Claire transitioned to military life. Ever wondered about staying awake for 56 hours? Claire spills the beans on her transformative training at Sandhurst, where resilience was the name of the game.

Cherie Blair Drama

• Imagine inviting Cherie Blair to talk at a place with a very, very traditional audience. Claire shares the juicy details of how she managed to win over skeptics and even had the club's chairman swooning!

To Hong Kong and Beyond

• Get a taste of Claire's high-stakes management during political unrest in Hong Kong. And the shift to a more tranquil life in Singapore—paddling pools indoors anyone?

Family First

• How COVID-19 changed everything! Claire opens up about personal loss and re-evaluating priorities. Plus, how a spontaneous escapade in Malaysia and Vietnam led her back to the UK.

Lensbury Bound

• Discover the award-winning Lensbury resort, a blend of heritage, sports, and leisure excellence—even England's Lionesses took a liking to it! Claire's vision of rejuvenating the historic club is nothing short of inspiring.

🌟 Key Takeaways:

Resilience and Adaptability

• Claire's military training taught her to remain calm under pressure—handy when faced with tear gas or a room full of critical club members.

Diverse Experiences Enrich Hospitality

• Phil and Claire discuss how bringing people from different industry backgrounds into hospitality makes the industry richer and more adaptive.

Humour and Humanity

• Balancing intense responsibilities with light-hearted moments, Claire exemplifies why attitude and a willingness to learn are the ultimate secrets to success.

Don’t miss this exciting ride through Claire Llewellin-Davis' remarkable journey filled with globetrotting, tear gas, high-profile events, and the serene beauty of the Lensbury resort.

Tune in for some laughs, insights, and inspiration!

The Guest

Claire Llewellin-Davis is the Managing Director at the Lensbury

LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/claire-llewellin-davis

The Sponsor

Today’s episode comes to you in partnership with RotaCloud, the people management platform for shift-based teams.

RotaCloud lets managers create and share rotas, record attendance, and manage annual leave in minutes — all from a single, web-based app.

It makes work simple for your team, too, allowing them to check their rotas, request holiday, and even pick up extra shifts straight from their phones.

Try RotaCloud’s time-saving tools today by heading to https://rotacloud.com/phil

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Episode Overview:

This week I was lucky enough to grab some time with for an entertaining and insightful conversation with the eminently engaging Imran Hussain, the innovative Chief Marketing Officer of Chateau Denmark (https://www.chateaudenmark.com). This episode of “Hospitality Meets” sheds light on the quirky, unpredictable, and exciting world of hospitality, capped with laughter and memorable anecdotes.

Episode Highlights:

• Behind-the-Scenes Comedy
• : Imran shares a hilarious story of his early career mishap, where he printed "canopies" instead of "canapés" on 3,000 invitations, teaching him a lifelong lesson on attention to detail.
• Energetic Conversation
• : The banter between Phil and Imran is infectious, from joking about creating a superhero squad named “Superheroes of Stupidity” to witty remarks about Shoreditch's dynamic past and transformation.
• Charisma and Passion
• : Passionate about architecture and community, Imran shares his heartfelt reflections on the evolution of Kings Cross and his latest ventures at Chateau Denmark, turning historic spaces into modern, culturally rich hospitality experiences.

Key Takeaways:

The Art of Learning from Mistakes:

• Imran's story about the "canapés" mishap remains a stellar example of humility and owning one’s mistakes. It’s a reminder that errors, no matter how embarrassing, are invaluable learning moments in one's career.

Innovative and Ageless Hospitality:

• The shared philosophy that hospitality is not just a job but a calling shines through. Imran and Phil both echo the importance of embracing the unpredictability, ongoing learning, and excitement that come with creating exceptional guest experiences.

Community and Cultural Integration:

• Imran’s vivid storytelling about projects like Chateau Denmark and The Pilgrim reveals his dedication to creating hospitality spaces that respect and enhance their neighbourhood's essence, emphasising the deep interconnection between a hotel and its surrounding community.

Don’t Miss:

• Phil’s visit to Chateau Denmark
• : Get first-hand insights into what makes this place uniquely captivating.
• Imran’s Career Influences
• : Discover how a coffee table book and a general manager named Michael changed the trajectory of Imran’s career.
• Humorous Reflections
• : Enjoy the contagious laughter and light-hearted exchanges that make this episode a treat to listen to.

Stay tuned for more enlightening conversations every Wednesday at 08:00 p.m. on your favorite podcast platform!

Listen and Subscribe:

Make sure to subscribe to “Hospitality Meets” and share this episode with fellow hospitality enthusiasts. Follow us for more episodes filled with industry insights, humour, and inspiring stories.

Get ready to laugh, learn, and be inspired by the incredible journey of Imran Hussain in this week's episode of “Hospitality Meets”!

The Guest

Imran Hussain is the Chief Marketing Officer at Chateau Denmark

Instagram - @imran_hussain

Chateau Denmark - @chateaudenmark

The Sponsor

Today’s episode comes to you in partnership with RotaCloud, the people management platform for shift-based teams.

RotaCloud lets managers create and share rotas, record attendance, and manage annual leave in minutes — all from a single, web-based app.

It makes work simple for your team, too, allowing them to check their rotas, request holiday, and even pick up extra shifts straight from their phones.

Try RotaCloud’s time-saving tools today by heading to https://rotacloud.com/phil

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Join us for a laughter-packed and enlightening episode I dive into the captivating world of Trudi Parr, Head of People at Mollie's (https://mollies.com). Trudi takes us on a rollercoaster ride through the hysterical, the surreal, and the downright cool moments that define her journey in the hospitality industry.

🎤 In This Episode:

1. High-Profile Shenanigans: Trudi spills the beans on the unique perks and backstage drama of working at iconic events like Radio 1's Big Weekend and Glastonbury. From managing surprise acts to the secret world of talent logistics, you'll hear stories that'll make you laugh out loud and wish you were there.
2. Pink Floyd & Private Soundchecks: Phil recounts a jaw-dropping anecdote from episode one with Chris Fletcher, where Chris witnessed a private Pink Floyd soundcheck at Hard Rock in Hyde Park. Imagine having one of the greatest rock bands play just for you!
3. Mistaken Identity at Paddington Station: Prepare for a hearty laugh as Trudi recounts a hilarious incident where she mistook Duncan from the boy band Blue for a friend at a train station. Classic mix-up, classic humour!
4. Innovation with the best: Moving beyond the glitz, Trudi delves into building Mollie's—a new, cool, accessible, motel and diner brand from the mind SOHO House titan, Nick Jones. Hear about their next big opening in Manchester and the quirky, high-quality offerings at their existing sites.
5. Celebrity Sightings & Serendipity: Get ready for more celebrity stories, including liaisons at Celtic Manor’s celebrity golf event, and Phil’s newbie days at London’s Coco nightclub, where politeness from Simon Webbe of Blue stole the show.
6. Embarrassing Blunders: Nothing beats learning from mishaps! Trudi spills on accidentally sending a personal email to her MD and the amusing yet instructive feedback she got. Plus, cringe along with Phil’s email typo that charmed clients despite its excruciating error.
7. The Heart of Hospitality: Beyond the anecdotes, Trudi reflects on the essence of her career, her transition into people management post-COVID, and finding joy in the day-to-day interactions that make this industry special.
8. Manifesting Goals & Career Pivots: Discover how career visualisation and intentional breaks led Trudi to her current role, stressing the value of alignment between personal values and professional paths.
9. Resilience & Reinvention: Trudi’s candid take on the personal growth spurred by the pandemic, embracing life’s serendipitous journeys, and the importance of genuine human connections in your work.

Tune in to this episode for a perfect blend of humour, heartfelt moments, and invaluable insights from one of hospitality’s most dynamic figures. Whether you're in the industry or just love a good story, this one’s a guaranteed treat!

Subscribe, listen, and laugh—it’s all happening right here on Hospitality Meets! 🎉

The Guest

Trudi Parr is the Head of People & Development for Mollie's

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/trudi-parr/

Mollies - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/molliesmotels/

The Sponsor

Today’s episode comes to you in partnership with RotaCloud, the people management platform for shift-based teams.

RotaCloud lets managers create and share rotas, record attendance, and manage annual leave in minutes — all from a single, web-based app.

It makes work simple for your team, too, allowing them to check their rotas, request holiday, and even pick up extra shifts straight from their phones.

Try RotaCloud’s time-saving tools today by heading to https://rotacloud.com/phil

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy