Hold onto your wine glasses, folks; this episode is a roller coaster of laughs, heart warming tales, and high-flying business ventures! I welcomed back Andrew Fishwick, CEO of Hestia and an irrepressible entrepreneur with a penchant for fun and "pulling wool over everyone’s eyes"—literally (Read on)! 🐑

🎓 Academic Rivalries: Andrew’s fresh from bagging a master's degree, but the real academic battle royale? A playful showdown with his wife, who’s plunging into a doctorate!

🌉 Sheep Drives on London Bridges: Yes, you heard that right! Andrew proudly talks about being honoured with the Freedom of the City of London and joyously driving sheep across London bridges. Baaaaasically (Sorry), he’s making history one sheep at a time!

💸 Historic Cash Hauls: Flashback to the '90s – Andrew regales us with a hilariously risky tale of lugging around bags stuffed with £100,000! Just another day at the bar, right? It's still a story that blows my mind and transcends the industry.

🍽️ "If I Had a…" Food Event Extravaganza: Imagine world-class chefs reinventing their culinary dreams. From hake Scotch eggs to speakeasy wonton snacks, it’s a flavourful festival you won’t want to miss!

🏡 Home Kitchen Heroics: Glide into the heart-warming story of Home Kitchen. Fine dining meets social good – serving up food and hope for the homeless, this venture is truly turning tables!

🚀 Business Bucks and Blunders: Dive into the highs and lows of Andrew's bold business moves. From acquiring premium brands like Apoy and Native to dodging the pitfalls of private equity, there's a boatload of entrepreneurial wisdom wrapped in entertaining anecdotes.

🌍 Local Legends & Global Good: With quirky stories about chefs like Monica Galletti whipping up meals for the needy and heartfelt initiatives reducing homelessness, Andrew's narrative will tug at your heartstrings – and tickle your funny bone!

Stay connected with the essence of hospitality and laughter. Get ready to enjoy an episode sizzling with inspiration, humour, and as always, great company.

Subscribe, listen, and laugh out loud as we explore this eclectic tapestry with the incredible Andrew Fishwick. 🚀👨‍🍳🎉

The Guest

Andrew leads the business and commercial strategy for Hestia. He has over 20 years’ experience leading hospitality and culture

He has produced over two dozen West End and Broadway shows, winning Tony Awards, Olivier Awards, Evening Standard Theatre Awards and many more. Andrew returned to the hospitality sector as interim CEO for several organisations which included multi award-winning Michelin Star gastro pub, restaurant groups and hotels.

Andrew a board member of the British Institute of Innkeepers as well as a mentor for the Prince's Trust. He was elected as a Fellow of The Royal Society of Arts and holds an MBA and has also been awarded the Freedom of the City of London for services to Business and the Arts.

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

Ho Ho Ho! Merry Podmas everyone! 🎅🎁

Prepare to unwrap something truly special this Christmas Day as our gift to you is an episode packed with culinary genius and a sprinkle of laughter! Join me as I sat down with the hilariously insightful Daniel Clifford, the proud owner of the two Michelin starred Midsummer House (https://midsummerhouse.co.uk/) and a treasure trove of unforgettable stories!

🎙️ Episode Highlights:

1. Ho Ho Hospitable Hiccups:

• Picture this: Daniel decides to take a break and leaves a trusted friend in charge. What could go wrong? Cue an unannounced visit from the head of Michelin! Zoiks!

2. Dropped Calls and High Hopes:

• Ever get so excited that you drop your phone? Well, Daniel did! When the legendary Derek Bulmer called to announce their promotion to TWO Michelin stars, the news was so shocking that Daniel dropped the phone. What happened next was pure Comedy gold.

3. Roller Coaster of Renovations:

• With dreams of refurbishing his restaurant and the means to do so finally in place, Daniel embarked on this adventure filled with budget DIY solutions, family tile-laying sessions, and personal news that turned his world upside down.

4. Great British Humour:

• Delve into the hilarious behind-the-scenes of Daniel's participation in the Great British Menu, where a "red nose" concept for Comic Relief led him on a whimsical journey of creativity, confusion, and culinary brilliance.

5. Misadventures in France:

• Parisian kitchens may sound glamorous, but Daniel’s experience was more sitcom than haute cuisine! Language barriers, a surprise job offer over lunch, and a Japanese colleague who spoke neither English nor French made for riotous tales.

6. Wine, Dine, and Punchlines:

• From disastrous wine pairings to final triumphs, Daniel's observations on dining mishaps and personal preferences will have you chuckling (and perhaps rethinking your next fish dish).

7. Love, Life & Laughter:

• Hear about meeting his wife and the roller coaster ride that followed—a blend of highs, lows, and lessons in happiness and balance—a heart-warming tale perfect for the festive season.

Don't miss this unofficial Christmas special, a joyous gift wrapped in humour, warmth, and the remarkable journey of one of the culinary world's finest!

Grab your cocoa, settle in by the fire, and join us for a laughter-filled feast of stories and insights with Daniel Clifford. It's the perfect Christmas treat—from our hearts to your ears! 🎉🎄

The Guest

Daniel Clifford is the Chef Patron of 2 Michelin Starred Midsummer House

Instagram (Daniel) - @midsummerchef

Instagram (Restaurant) - @midsummer_house_

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

In this cheerful and engaging episode of Hospitality Meets, Phil catches up with the delightful Jane Pendlebury, CEO of HOSPA (https://www.hospa.org/). Get ready for a conversation filled with laughter, intriguing experiences, and valuable insights into the world of hospitality.

Highlights:

1. Career Pathways and Unexpected Turns:

• Jane takes us through her colourful journey in the hospitality industry, complete with unexpected opportunities and memorable moments. Whether it's working a night shift in a party dress after attending a friend's 21st birthday or recounting her time temping at Channel 4 News, Jane's path is nothing short of eclectic.

2. Tips for Public Speaking:

• Jane shares her tips for conquering stage fright, drawing from her experience hosting a conference with no live audience.

3. The Human Element in Hospitality:

• Jane and Phil reflect on what makes the hospitality industry so special: its human-centric, team-oriented environment. Both have left and returned to hospitality, unable to resist its camaraderie and vibrant nature.

Funny Moments:

• Straight Face Mishaps: Jane shares a hilarious story from her early career about keeping a straight face at the reception desk during a particularly amusing incident.
• Chair Tumble Tale: Phil relates his own funny experience, falling off a chair while working on a cruise ship. It's a moment of shared laughter about the unpredictable nature of work in hospitality.
• Night audit in party dress: Jane recounts a story of conducting the night audit on the back of a 21st birthday party!

Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace Unexpected Opportunities: Jane's career is a testament to being open to unexpected turns and opportunities. From temp jobs to key industry roles, embracing the unpredictable has led her to fulfilling positions.
2. Conquer Public Speaking with Practice: Jane’s transformation into a confident speaker, especially highlighted by hosting a virtual conference, underscores the value of practice and visualisation in conquering public speaking fears.
3. Strong Personal Connections: Both Jane and Phil emphasise the strong, lasting personal connections within the hospitality industry, which often feels like a close-knit family despite its competitive nature.

Tune in to this episode for a blend of humour, heartfelt reflections, and insights that any hospitality professional—or anyone with a love for a good story—will enjoy. Don't miss Jane's entertaining anecdotes and Phil's relatable experiences that make this an episode full of smiles and learning moments!

The Guest

Jane has worked with HOSPA (the Hospitality Professionals Association) for many years and has been CEO for over 8 years.

HOSPA is a not-for-profit membership organisation for commercial leaders involved in finance, technology, revenue management and marketing alongside hospitality business owners and their representatives.

Having gained a degree in hospitality management, Jane worked in both chain and independent hotels before becoming a supplier of technology to the industry.

She is an enthusiastic supporter of hospitality businesses and the myriad of people who work within them. Jane likes to add her positive voice to promote the industry far and wide.

https://www.instagram.com/hospa_/

https://www.linkedin.com/school/hospa/

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

🎙️ About This Episode:

Get ready to dive into an episode brimming with laughter, heartfelt stories, and eye-opening revelations! I sat down for a candid chat with Professor Peter Jones MBE, a hospitality industry guru with a heart of gold and a knack for comedic storytelling.

📰 Here’s What You’ll Discover:

• The Art of Inclusion: Peter shares how inviting employees to explain tasks to new team members—especially those with disabilities—not only boosts team performance but also turns mundane tasks into a collective learning experience. Who knew improving professionalism could be so fun?
• A Journey Through History & Comedy: From serendipitously walking into an army recruiting office to managing massive catering events for royalty in Germany, Peter’s career path is as entertaining as it is inspiring. There's more than a few raspberries in here.
• Breaking Barriers: Peter’s mission to challenge traditional views on disability employment isn’t just inspiring; it’s bang on point. Learn how a grateful interaction with a deaf doorman in India and a loyal trainee at Crumbs have turned traditional notions upside down.
• Theatre of Hospitality: Phil and Peter explore the concept of the hospitality industry as a grand stage, where confidence, professionalism, and a dash of showmanship can make all the difference. And let’s face it, nothing builds confidence like serving the Queen herself!
• Outwitting the Odds: Hear how Peter’s innovative approach in transforming a Georgian building into a four-star hotel, despite several setbacks, showcases the power of persistence and a good sense of humour.

💼 Key Takeaways:

• Improving Through Inclusion: Involving team members in training fosters a culture of continuous improvement and inclusion. Plus, it’s a great way to bond over shared knowledge and a few laughs.
• Finding Joy in the Journey: Peter’s career is a testament to embracing unexpected opportunities and finding humour in the challenges. Whether in the army or hospitality, a good laugh can open many doors (and hearts).
• Breaking Down Barriers: Employing individuals with disabilities isn’t just good for inclusivity—it's good for business. Discover how integrating diverse talents can lead to surprising moments of joy and loyalty.
• Confidence is Key: In the world of hospitality (and in life), confidence can make you stand out. Building a professional, confidence-boosting environment is crucial, and having a bit of fun along the way doesn’t hurt!
• Persistence Pays Off: From initial failures to ultimate triumphs, Peter’s story highlights the importance of persistence, innovation, and a bit of comedic resilience.

Join us for an episode that’s as informative as it is entertaining, with a few laughs along the way! Whether you’re in hospitality, education, or just love a good story, Peter Jones will leave you inspired and smiling.

The Guest

Professor Peter A Jones, MBE DSc(Hon) FIH FCGI FRACA

Peter Jones is the chair of the Crumbs Project. A disability charity that provides hospitality education and training for adults with learning and mental health disabilities. Peter has been involved with the charity for some years and is a powerful advocate and champion for creating professional opportunities for those with disabilities who are often overlooked at the margins of society.

Peter has enjoyed a varied professional career in various army, industry and higher education appointments.

He is a published academic and edited a number of academic and professional journals. He has chaired and been a member of professional and government bodies in the UK, Australia and Lithuania. His professional projects included as the Project Director for the development of the Edge Hotel School.

He is currently Chair of the Professional Review Panel of the Institute of Hospitality, Chair of Gate College Academic Council (Nepal), Board Advisor of the International Association of Hotel Schools (EUHOFA), Special Advisor to Kathmandu University, a Director of Missenden Abbey, Academic Director of eHotelier, a member of the Institute of Hospitality DEIB Council, and a Trustee of the Savoy Educational Trust.

He was made Member of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to the hospitality industry ion 2007 and most recently won the Education and Training Catey 2024.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/prof-peter-jones-55185513/

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

Well, have I got an absolute feast for your ears today!

I welcomed the incomparable Kate Austen to the show. Kate is a culinary maven whose journey from a kitchen newbie has taken her on to become the youngest ever 2 Michelin Starred Female head chef and the First Female to win the main course at the awesomeness that is, The Great British Menu. Join us as we dive into Kate's hilarious anecdotes, heartfelt reflections, and invaluable industry insights.

🍴 Highlights of the Episode:

1. From "Naïve" to Notable:

• Kate describes her audacious entry into the culinary world, walking into Michelin-starred restaurants in Norfolk without any culinary training. Bold move or sheer naivety? You decide!

2. Underestimated & Unstoppable:

• Despite starting with minimal skills, Kate's determination and willingness to learn turned scepticism into admiration. An inspiring reminder that perseverance can ultimately triumph over doubt.

3. Competition Camaraderie:

• Relive the intense, yet camaraderie-filled Great British Menu with Kate. Learn how an 11-week wait, nerve-wracking moments, and a supportive crew turned a high-pressure environment into a lifelong memory.

4. Career Transitions & Travels:

• From Michelin-star kitchens to private chef gigs, Kate's career transitions offer valuable lessons on flexibility. Plus, enjoy some light-hearted Scandinavian kitchen stories – fish bones and freezing water, anyone?

5. Mastering Scandinavian Techniques:

• Kate shares her thrill at mastering new pickling and preserving methods in Scandinavian kitchens, elevating her culinary skills to new heights.

6. The Perks of Being a Chef:

• Whether it's free food and drink or forming incredible friendships, Kate and Phil explore the delightful advantages of life in hospitality. Who knew that such perks could be a key motivator?

7. Leadership Evolution:

• Delve into the 'then and now' of kitchen leadership. Kate champions respect over fear, shaping a new, supportive culture in the culinary world.

Hilarious Moments:

1. Intern Pranks:

• Laugh along as Kate recalls a time when an intern was tricked into washing fishbones and freezing water – we've all been there.

2. Competition Woes:

• Join the fun as Kate recounts the logistical chaos during a farmer's strike in Paris. You'll be surprised at what chefs can overcome with a little teamwork and a lot of

Key Takeaways:

1. Perseverance Pays Off:

• Despite starting with no culinary experience, Kate's journey is a testament to the power of persistence and learning from every experience.

2. Industry Adaptability:

• Flexibility and adaptation are crucial in the ever-evolving culinary world. Kate's transition from restaurant kitchens to private chef gigs exemplifies this.

3. Leadership with Heart:

• Kate advocates for respectful and supportive leadership, moving away from the traditional authoritarian kitchen culture typical of Michelin-starred environments.

4. Embrace the Journey:

• Whether facing long hours, low pay, or challenging competition, Kate’s story highlights the growth that comes from overcoming adversity.

Tune in to this episode of Hospitality Meets for a delicious blend of humour, heart, and hard-earned wisdom from the culinary trenches. Bon appétit!

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with your friends and fellow foodies!

The Guest

Kate Austen is the youngest ever 2 star female head chef. She is also the first female to win the main course at the Great British menu Banquet.

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

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

Welcome to an hilarious and insightful episode of Hospitality Meets! In this episode I got to sit down with Linden Beattie, the lively General Manager of Downhall Hotel, Spa, and Estate and AA Hotel of the Year 2024🌟🌟🌟

Get ready for a rollercoaster ride through Linden's journey from aspiring RAF recruit to hospitality aficionado, peppered with laughs, wisdom, and eye-opening industry insights.

1. The Unexpected Career Turn:

• 🌟RAF Rejection:

Discover how an 18-year-old Linden, on the brink of signing a nine-year RAF contract, had a life-changing epiphany while working front-of-house. Spoiler: It involves discovering a newfound love for hospitality and ditching military drills for hotel thrills.

• 🏨
• Pretty Woman Dreams:

Phil and Linden bond over childhood fantasies inspired by movie hotels, though Phil’s practical experiences at his family's small Scottish hotel didn’t quite match the silver screen's allure.

2. Hilarious & Heartfelt Hospitality Tales:

• 😂
• Hotel Humour at Its Finest:
• Laugh along with Linden as he recalls the North Wales hotel owner who had a unique way of handling unruly guests—a true testament to the adage "the customer is always the customer, not always right."
• 👩‍🍳
• From KP to GM:
• Ease into the comical yet earnest recollections of Linden's humble beginnings as a kitchen porter at age 11. This foundational role prepared him for the diverse, sometimes dramatic stages of hotel management.

3. Career Challenges & Comedic Solutions:

• 🌍
• Big Moves & Bigger Lessons:
• Follow Linden's daring decisions to move from cosy hotels to large resorts. Learn how his role at Cambridge Quy Mill Hotel brought not just challenges but opportunities to shine, leading to inventive PR strategies involving music events that outshined traditional campaigns.
• 🎵
• Musical Masterstrokes:
• Linden’s innovative idea to swap a hefty PR budget for local music nights was a hit! Listen to how these free-entry community events turned into sell-out successes, proving sometimes the best publicity is homegrown and heartfelt.

4. Personal & Professional Growth:

• 🌱
• Nurturing Environments:
• Dive deep into discussions on the importance of supportive, nurturing work settings in shaping and retaining hospitality talent. Linden’s transition from toxic kitchen environments to spaces that fostered trust and confidence reveal the industry’s dual nature.
• 📈
• Leadership Evolution:
• Learn about Linden's transformation from micromanager to a collaborative leader. His “1:3:1 problem-solving rule” shifted his team towards independent thinking and collective solutions, paving the way for smoother operations and happier staff.

5. Downhall Delights:

• 🍸
• Estate Innovations:
• Unveil the wonders at Downhall, where Linden’s team distils their own gin and vodka, cultivates honey, and offers exclusive handpicked teas. Upcoming projects like a new kitchen garden dining concept and a woodland spa hint at exciting future ventures.
• 🏆
• Award-Winning Excellence:
• Celebrate Downhall winning the AA Hotel of the Year award. Hear how this accolade has boosted morale and business, alongside tales of the team’s dedication and the owner’s unwavering support.

Join Phil and Linden as they blend humour, heartfelt moments, and hospitality wisdom into an episode that promises to entertain while offering valuable insights. Perfect for industry insiders and enthusiasts alike!

Be sure to subscribe to Hospitality Meets and never miss an episode brimming with compelling stories and industry secrets.

Got a hospitality story to share? Connect with us on social media and join the conversation!

The Guest

Linden Beattie - https://www.linkedin.com/in/linden-beattie-3ab23a91/

Downhall Instagram - down_hall

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

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

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

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

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.

• 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