"I'm In": The Official Institute of Hospitality Podcast

This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests:

1. Mark Lewis FIH – Chief Executive, Hospitality Action
2. Lizzie Grundy AIH – Weddings & Private Dining Manager, Pennyhill Park; Vice Chair, IOH Youth Council

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

Supporting Communities at Christmas: The Season of Giving Back

In this festive episode of I’m In, host Phil Street brings together two brilliant hospitality voices, Mark Lewis of Hospitality Action and Lizzie Grundy of Pennyhill Park, to explore what supporting communities at Christmas truly means.

From tackling loneliness to charitable giving, team wellbeing, and authentic generosity, this warm, heartfelt conversation reminds us that hospitality’s spirit shines brightest when we take care of one another.

In this episode, we discuss:

1. What “supporting communities at Christmas” means to those working in hospitality
2. Hospitality Action’s Golden Friends scheme and how it supports retired workers
3. Why Christmas can be emotionally tough, and how kindness helps bridge the gap
4. Real examples of hotels giving back: toy donations, charity Christmas cards, and more
5. Supporting your own teams during the busiest season of the year
6. The power of time and volunteering when finances are stretched
7. Why acts of generosity are contagious
8. Industry wide collaborations like Walk for Wellbeing and the Always Open at Christmas charity single

Why Our Guests Said, “I’m In!”

Mark Lewis:

Mark believes deeply in the importance of professional development and the role the IOH plays in supporting hospitality careers. As someone committed to supporting the industry’s people, joining the IOH community was a natural step.

Lizzie Grundy:

Fresh out of university, Lizzie wanted a professional home that would help her continue learning, connecting, and growing. The IOH gave her that, and now, through the Youth Council, she helps others find their voice and their community too.

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode

1. “We help people who hit a bump in the road, and Christmas is when that help matters most” – Mark Lewis
2. “It’s all about making sure people feel the spirit of Christmas in every way, not just spending, but sharing” – Lizzie Grundy
3. “Hospitality people are, by nature, generous. They’re happy to work while others rest, and they still find ways to give back” – Mark Lewis
4. “If you have the right culture, one that truly looks after your team, you’ll handle the Christmas rush just fine” – Mark Lewis
5. “Positivity is contagious, giving your time lifts others and yourself” – Lizzie Grundy
6. “Every pound counts. With £50 or £100, we can change a life” – Mark Lewis

Join the Conversation

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

IOH Website: The Institute of Hospitality is the global professional body for hospitality

Christmas is a time for joy, connection, and kindness, but also a reminder that not everyone has the same support network. This episode celebrates the generosity, collaboration, and community spirit that make hospitality so special.

Tune in for a festive dose of heart and hope.

This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests:

• Edd Gallier FIH – Head of Learning & Development, Leonardo Hotels
• Damien Martin MIH – General Manager, The Parkgate Hotel, Cardiff
• Mark Grant MIH – Chair, IOH Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) Council

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

Supporting Trans People into the Workplace: Building Cultures of Belonging

In this episode, Phil Street leads an open and constructive conversation about how hospitality businesses can better support trans people in the workplace — and, more broadly, how we can create cultures where everyone feels safe, valued, and able to be themselves.

Joined by Edd Gallier, Damien Martin, and Mark Grant, this discussion explores what inclusion really means in day-to-day operations: from policy and language to allyship, leadership, and learning through honest mistakes.

In this episode, we discuss:

• What “supporting trans people into the workplace” truly means in practice
• Why culture and belonging are more powerful than compliance
• How language signal respect and inclusion
• Creating psychologically safe spaces for dialogue and education
• Balancing belief systems, dignity, and organisational values
• The importance of allyship and calling out poor behaviour from guests as well as colleagues
• Measuring inclusion beyond numbers: belonging, engagement, and lived experience
• The role of leadership, communication, and technology in building inclusive workplaces

Why Our Guests Said, “I’m In!”

Edd Gallier: For Edd, joining the IOH is about professional recognition and raising standards of learning and development across hospitality, ensuring everyone receives the growth and respect they deserve

Damien Martin: Damien sees the IOH as a vital resource for development and recognition, helping his team learn, grow, and bring their best selves to work every day

Mark Grant: As Chair of the IOH DEIB Council, Mark champions hospitality’s welcoming nature and its potential to reflect society’s best values: opportunity, inclusion, and community

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode

• “Creating a culture where everyone can feel they belong — that’s the real measure of success” – Edd Gallier
• “Hospitality is about welcoming everyone. Inclusivity isn’t optional” – Damien Martin
• “If someone has a problem with you, it doesn’t have to become a problem for you” – Mark Grant
• “Language signals respect, even small changes can make a big impact” – Damien Martin
• “Don’t wait for someone else to act. Speak up. Be an ally” – Mark Grant
• “Everyone deserves a workplace where they can just be themselves” – Phil Street

Creating truly inclusive workplaces starts with conversation, courage, and consistency. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion that gets to the heart of what belonging really means in hospitality

Join the Conversation

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

Website: https://www.instituteofhospitality.org/

For any feedback on the show, to put forward a topic or to put yourself forward as a guest, please reach out to [email protected]

This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland

https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests:

• Francisco Macedo - Chairing the IOH Funded Membership
• Carmen Vlasceanu - Author of Dare to Care, cruise hospitality consultant; beneficiary of funded membership
• Jenny Cheung – Front of house professional; beneficiary of funded membership during COVID
• Joanne Smith - Institute of Hospitality; co-creator of Hearts in Hospitality award
• Marvellous Dada - President, TMD Mentorship (Nigeria); Hearts in Hospitality recipient
• Pete Wayre - Hospitality leader & trainer; Hearts in Hospitality recipient
• Marco De Simone – Restaurants Professional; Hearts in Hospitality recipient

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

I’m In - 50th Episode Special: Community, Care & Quiet Heroes

For our 50th, we spotlight two IOH initiatives that change real lives: the Funded Membership (confidential membership support when times are tough) and Hearts in Hospitality (recognising unsung heroes who go above and beyond).

You’ll hear frank advice on applying for funded membership, first hand stories of how it helps people bounce back, and joyful reminders of everyday heroism across hospitality.

In this episode, we discuss

• The Funded Membership - how it works & why it matters: a confidential lifeline that helps members stay connected to opportunities, learning, and community when finances are tight.
• What makes a strong application?
• The lived impact of funded membership: confidence, connection, access to learning, and headspace to rebuild.
• Hearts in Hospitality: why the IOH created it, how nominations are judged, and the power of celebrating frontline excellence.
• Real stories from awardees: going further than expected, serving with heart, and lifting the next generation.

Specific Guest input

• Francisco Macedo on the Funded Membership’s purpose and some tips for a successful application
• Carmen Vlasceanu on what funding unlocked: from MBA/PhD studies to launching a charity (Angels Wings), and a training platform - membership access made momentum possible.
• Jenny Cheung on the COVID years: funded membership brought learning, confidential support, and a sense of community when work vanished - now she’s a paying member and paying it forward.
• Joanne Smith on Hearts in Hospitality: built by a cross team taskforce to celebrate people who “do the job well and more,” with surprise workplace presentations and panel review.
• Marvellous Dada on youth and purpose: building Nigeria’s largest hospitality student network and choosing service over comfort to raise a new generation for the industry.
• Pete Wayre on exceeding expectations: the small, human acts (like personally guiding a lost guest across Manchester) and a career long mantra - presentation and care matter.
• Marco De Simone on the sheer surprise of receiving the award, what it means and why awards like this are important

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode

• “The Funded Membership can give people a lifeline” - Francisco Macedo, on the Funded Membership
• “People need to write from their hearts… attach your CV… and tell us how you’ll use the year” - Francisco Macedo, on successful applications
• “Dare to care and dare to transform your life” - Carmen Vlasceanu
• “The funded membership is free of charge for the first 12 months… it built up my confidence to connect with other people” - Jenny Cheung.
• “It’s not just doing your job well, it’s doing your job well and more” - Joanne Smith, on Hearts in Hospitality.
• “Our industry is built on sacrifice” - Marvellous Dada.
• “Presentation is everything… you’re judged within the first three seconds” - Pete Wayre
• “Smile at life and life has a habit at smiling back” – Marco De Simone

How to Get Involved

• Need help? If you’re facing hardship, apply early for a funded membership - be honest, include detail, and explain how you’ll use the membership year.
• It’s 100% confidential - IoH Funded Membership - application and criteria - Institute of Hospitality
• Know an unsung hero? Nominate them for Hearts in Hospitality via the IOH website; detailed nominations help the panel recognise true impact - Hearts in Hospitality - Institute of Hospitality

Join the Conversation

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

Website: https://www.instituteofhospitality.org/

For any feedback on the show, to put forward a topic or to put yourself forward as a guest, please reach out to [email protected]

This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests:

• Kan Koo MBE FIH – Executive Director, Cosmo Restaurant Group
• Louise Brown MIH – Commercial Executive, Institute of Hospitality
• Harsh Sodhani AIH – Business Development Manager, Hilton London Bankside

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

B2B Sales in Hospitality: Relationships, Trust, and the Role of AI

Selling business-to-business is part art, part science.

But in hospitality, it’s always about relationships. In this episode, Phil is joined by Kan Khoo, Louise Brown, and Harsh Sodhani to explore the realities of B2B sales: from building trust and tailoring language to knowing when (if ever) a hard sell is appropriate.

This conversation unpacks the balance between data and dinners, the pitfalls of bad pitches, and why the human touch still matters in an increasingly tech-driven world.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why relationship building is the cornerstone of B2B sales
• When (and how) to use data to back up trust
• The dangers of the “hard sell” and when it might be justified
• How language needs to adapt for different stakeholders
• Mistakes too many salespeople make in hospitality
• What separates true partners from one-time vendors
• The role professional bodies play in raising sales standards
• Whether AI can ever replace the human element in B2B selling

Why Our Guests Said, “I’m In!”

Kan Khoo: A Member for nearly four decades, Kan has always been passionate about mentoring and supporting the next generation, while proudly championing diversity and inclusion through his restaurants.

Louise Brown: With hospitality in her blood, Louise has been part of the IOH on and off since 1989. She thrives on connecting people and ensuring members and partners get real value from their relationships.

Harsh Sodhani: Having built his UK career from scratch, Harsh values the IOH for mentorship, connections, and the Youth Council’s platform for new voices in the industry.

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode

• “To build long-term successful enterprise, when you don’t close a sale, open a relationship” – Patricia Fripp (quoted by Phil)
• “Data builds credibility, but dinner builds trust” – Harsh Sodhani
• “AI and IT don’t have feelings, the human touch in B2B is still irreplaceable” – Kan Khoo
• “If you’re not actively listening, you’re not selling, you’re just shouting” – Louise Brown
• “Be the most inquisitive person in the room, not the most knowledgeable. That’s how you build trust” – Phil Street

Join the Conversation

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

From bad pitches to brilliant partnerships, this episode is packed with real-world insights for anyone in sales or hospitality leadership.

Tune in now!

Have feedback or want to feature on a future episode? Contact Phil at [email protected]

AI & Efficiency in Small Business: Friend, Foe, or Force for Growth?

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests: Professor Peter Jones FIH, Professor Roya Rahimi MIH & Bradley Dorrington AIH

Artwork & Branding: Sonja Cresswell MIH

Music: Leon Williams FIH

AI is everywhere, but what does it really mean for small business owners in hospitality? In this episode, Phil is joined by Professor Peter Jones, Professor Roya Rahimi, and Bradley Dorrington to unpack the role of AI in making small businesses more efficient, agile, and competitive.

From practical “quick wins” to the bigger ethical questions, this conversation explores how AI is already transforming the industry and how small businesses can adopt it without fear or overwhelm.

Whether you’re excited, cautious, or somewhere in between, this discussion will give you clarity on where to start and what to watch out for.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How AI can free up time by automating repetitive tasks
• The real opportunities for small businesses in data analysis and decision making
• Why adopting AI doesn’t mean replacing staff
• Practical starting points for small operators curious about AI
• How marketing and customer engagement are being reshaped by AI
• The misconceptions (and fears) that hold small businesses back
• Why AI should be seen as a supportive tool, not a threat

Why Our Guests Said, “I’m In!”

Peter Jones: A Fellow for over 30 years, Peter values the IOH as a supportive, evolving professional body that grows alongside the industry.

Roya Rahimi: Passionate about bridging academia and industry, Roya sees the IOH as a vital community that reflects her lifelong commitment to service and hospitality.

Bradley Dorrington: As a small business owner and now Chair of the Youth Council, Bradley values the IOH for its network, support, and commitment to showcasing hospitality as a vibrant career path.

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode

• “AI is your starting point, not the end answer. You’ve still got to ask the right questions” – Peter Jones
• “AI makes me feel like a superhuman — it frees me from repetitive tasks so I can focus on what really matters” – Roya Rahimi
• “Sometimes it’s just about giving it a go. Even a simple chatbot or fact-checking tool can make a big difference” – Bradley Dorrington
• “The power is in the prompt” – Phil Street

Join the Conversation

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

AI in hospitality isn’t science fiction, it’s already here. The question is: how will you use it? Tune in now to find out!

Have feedback or want to feature on a future episode? Contact Phil at [email protected]

This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests:

· James B Clarke FIH – General Manager, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge & Chair, Master Innholders

· Lisa Bright MIH – Professional Development Administrator, Institute of Hospitality

· Rishabh Vaish AIH – Business Development E-Commerce, Blue Orchid Hotels & Youth Council, IOH

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH) Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

Mentorship in Hospitality: At what point does it stop being effective?

In this episode, Phil is joined by James B Clarke, Lisa Bright, and Rishabh Vaish to dig deep into the subject of mentorship. From first hand stories to hard truths about when it goes wrong, this conversation unpacks the real value of mentoring relationships and when they risk becoming meaningless.

If you’ve ever considered being a mentor, becoming a mentee, or just want to better understand how to create growth focused relationships in hospitality, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why mentorship matters more than ever
• What makes a mentoring relationship truly work
• Setting the right ground rules
• The dangers of ineffective or one sided mentorship
• How to spot when it’s time to part ways
• The role of reverse mentoring
• How to ensure guidance doesn’t become outdated advice
• Why mentoring isn’t about creating clones

Why Our Guests Said, “I’m In!”

James B Clarke: A long-time Fellow and passionate advocate for collaboration and mentoring, James believes the IOH and Master Innholders are critical to nurturing future leaders. His goal? To be part of shaping a strong, resilient, and people focused profession.

Lisa Bright: Lisa loves being part of the wider hospitality family and especially values her work with Mentor Me, the IOH’s mentoring scheme. She sees it as an opportunity to support others and grow personally while connecting across the industry.

Rishabh Vaish: Having joined the IOH as a student, Rish was inspired by the welcoming environment and real world value of networking and mentorship. Now on the Youth Council, he’s helping others find their feet and their voice in hospitality.

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode:

“The delicate balance of mentoring someone is not creating them in your own image, but giving them the opportunity to create themselves” – Steven Spielberg (quoted by Phil)

“Mentorship is a win-win – as a mentor, you learn just as much as you give” – James B Clarke

“Mentoring is a gift. What you do with it is your choice” – Lisa Bright

“Mentorship is not about making clones. It’s about merging the best of yourself with someone else’s potential” – Rishabh Vaish

“Ineffective mentoring is worse than no mentoring at all” – Lisa Bright

“Reverse mentoring reignites your perspective. It’s not one sided – it’s two way growth” – Phil Street

Join the Conversation:

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

Website: https://www.instituteofhospitality.org/

Mentoring is more than a buzzword – it’s a commitment to growth, authenticity, and meaningful connection. This episode breaks it all down, so tune in now!

Have feedback or want to feature on a future episode? Contact Phil at [email protected]

This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests: Jo Smith FIH (Institute of Hospitality), Vandana Dass MIH (Managing Director, Davenport Solicitors & IOH Trustee), Lizzie Grundy AIH (Weddings & Private Dining Manager, Pennyhill Park)

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

How to Manage an Employment Tribunal

In this episode of the Institute of Hospitality Podcast, Phil navigates the intricate and often misunderstood world of employment tribunals. Joined by Jo Smith FIH, Vandana Dass MIH, and Lizzie Grundy AIH, the discussion explores what tribunals really are, the misconceptions surrounding them, and how to prevent issues before they escalate. Whether you’re new to the workplace or a seasoned leader, this episode offers practical advice and real-world insight on managing workplace conflict with fairness and professionalism.

In this episode, we discuss:

⦁ What Is a Tribunal Anyway?

⦁ A clear explanation from legal expert Vandana Dass on how and why tribunals happen.

⦁ The Human Side of Conflict - How tensions in the workplace affect individuals and teams, with insight from Lizzie and Jo.

⦁ Misconceptions Around Tribunals - From both employer and employee perspectives — including some myths

⦁ Documentation Matters: Why consistent record keeping is key, and what employers often get wrong.

⦁ Culture, Communication, and Leadership: How proactive leadership and early conversations can help prevent escalation.

Why Our Guests Said “I’m In!”

Jo Smith: As a long-time team member at the IOH, Jo celebrates the supportive and forward-thinking community that makes the IOH special. She loves being part of a network where people matter above all else.

Vandana Dass: A passionate advocate for hospitality, Vandana joined the IOH because of its commitment to supporting professionals and creating a powerful, empathetic community of practice.

Lizzie Grundy: A member since her student days, Lizzie credits the IOH with offering the network, mentorship, and opportunity that helped her progress quickly in her career. It’s all about the people.

Key Moments and Quotes from the Episode:

“Employment tribunals are legal forums set up to resolve disputes between employers and employees — often a last resort when informal resolution fails.” – Vandana Dass

“Trust and confidence are central to any employment relationship. Once that’s gone, it’s very hard to get it back.” – Vandana Dass

"We should just gossip less, people" - Phil Street

"You have to balance protecting the company with genuinely caring about the people. That’s where true leadership lies."

“As leaders, we must be alert to shifts in behaviour. An employee acting differently can be a huge red flag.” – Vandana Dass

“Conflict is inevitable. What matters is how we deal with it, not whether we can avoid it.” – Lizzie Grundy

“Documentation is your best friend. If it’s not written down, it’s one person’s word against another.” – Vandana Dass

“A healthy workplace is one where people thrive and feel psychologically safe.” – Vandana Dass & Lizzie Grundy

Join the Conversation:

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

Website: https://www.instituteofhospitality.org

Tune in now for a compelling and accessible look into how tribunals work, how to avoid them, and how to foster a fairer, more communicative workplace.

We’d love your feedback!

Want to share your thoughts or put yourself forward as a future guest?

Contact Phil Street at [email protected]

This Podcast is Sponsored by: Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests:

Michael Voigt (Managing Director, The Goring)

Ciara Crossan (Founder & CEO, Wedding Dates)

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

Episode Title: I'm In - Crisis Management

In this episode of the Institute of Hospitality Podcast, Phil dives into the world of crisis management with two hospitality leaders who have faced challenges head on. Michael Voigt from The Goring and Ciara Crossan from Wedding Dates share their personal insights on surviving, thriving, and learning through crises in hospitality. From COVID-19 to personal challenges, this conversation highlights the power of empathy, leadership, and reinvention in uncertain times.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Prevention, Reaction, or Reinvention? The balance that leaders must strike in crisis management.
• The Importance of Empathy in Leadership How compassion and calmness can help you navigate even the toughest moments.
• Adapting to Crisis: The COVID Era How businesses and leaders reimagined operations to survive and thrive.
• The Role of Communication During a crisis, both internally with your team and externally with your guests.
• Resilience and Learning from Crisis What the pandemic taught us about running a sustainable and adaptable business.

Why Our Guests Said “I’m In!”

Michael: A long-time advocate of professional networking, Michael joined the IOH to further his commitment to supporting the hospitality industry, sharing experiences, and continuing to learn from his peers.

Ciara: After over a decade in the business, Ciara was drawn to the IOH for its commitment to excellence, professionalism, and a network that helped her grow both as a business owner and as a leader.

Key Moments and Quotes from the Episode:

“A crisis fundamentally affects or alters the way we do business. How we react is what we control” – Michael Voigt

“Prevention is the most powerful. But once something goes wrong, reaction is key, and empathy can go a long way in making it right” – Ciara Crossan

“In a crisis, communicate more, update more, and reassure more” – Ciara Crossan

“The best way to prepare future leaders for crises is to share experiences and mentor them. They need to understand that crises are inevitable and can be dealt with when you’ve got the right mindset” – Michael Voigt

“Sometimes the best solution to a crisis is to stay calm, take a deep breath, and then make a well-informed decision” – Ciara Crossan

Join the Conversation:

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

Website: https://www.instituteofhospitality.org

Tune in now for a thoughtful and actionable discussion on how to manage a crisis with resilience, empathy, and strong leadership.

We’d love your feedback! Want to share your thoughts or put yourself forward as a future guest? Contact Phil Street at [email protected]

This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland

https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host:

Phil Street FIH

Guests:

● Michael Kill FIH (CEO, Nighttime Industries Association)

● Emma McClarkin OBE FIH (CEO, British Beer and Pub Association)

● Robert Richardson FIH (CEO, Institute of Hospitality)

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

CEO Collaboration: Why Working Together is the Key to Hospitality’s Future

In an extraordinary episode, Phil brought together the CEOs of three major forces in the UK’s hospitality landscape: the Night time Industries Association, the British Beer and Pub Association, and the Institute of Hospitality. With Michael Kill FIH, Emma McClarkin OBE FIH, and Robert Richardson FIH at the table, this conversation dives deep into what true, meaningful collaboration looks like, and why it’s more important than ever.

With each guest representing different corners of a vibrant, interconnected ecosystem, this episode is brimming with practical insight, candid stories, and actionable ideas for anyone passionate about hospitality’s future.

In this episode, we discuss:

• What each trade association does and why their work is so intertwined
• How mutual respect and honesty fuel successful collaborations
• Case studies of policy wins, and challenges, in an ever-changing landscape
• The risks of working in silos and the power of presenting a united industry voice, especially to government
• How cross-sector collaboration amplifies member benefits, learning opportunities, and innovation
• Real-world examples of sharing data, resources, and best practices to drive change
• Why supporting people, at every career stage, is central to the industry’s growth
• Key lessons from the pandemic about solidarity, resilience, and the human side of hospitality
• The critical role of association teams, and why their work behind the scenes should never be underestimated

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode:

“If you think of this as an orchestra, we each play different instruments, but together we improve the whole.” – Robert Richardson

“The weakness of the industry comes in disparate voices... but a collective position is much harder to disregard.” – Michael Kill

“We are all part of ensuring that we have a really strong sector, a really strong nighttime economy, and it’s something we really have to fight for.” – Emma McClarkin

“There’s no one organisation that represents the entire sector. But collectively, we are an industry.” – Michael Kill

“You can’t have success and progress without collaboration.” – Phil Street

Join the Conversation

Website: https://www.instituteofhospitality.org/

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

Tune in now for a behind-the-scenes look at how real collaboration happens at the top, and what it means for every professional in hospitality.

We’d love your feedback! Want to share your thoughts or put yourself forward as a future guest? Contact Phil Street at [email protected]

I'm In Special – The Institute of Hospitality’s Official Podcast in association with the Hotel Management and Tourism Institute Switzerland (HTMi)

Podcast Sponsored by: LeonardoHotels UK & Ireland

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests:

• Sofia Muchova
• Jane Kalenichenko
• Ali Alkubaish
• Patricia Cobasnean
• Ciprian Voinea

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

Hands Across the Water: Opportunities and Challenges for International Students

In this special edition of the Institute of Hospitality's official podcast, host Phil Street is joined by a dynamic group of past and present students from the Hotel and Tourism Management Institute of Switzerland (HTMi). This episode dives deep into the experiences, opportunities, and challenges faced by international hospitality students today.

From cultural integration to leveraging technology, this conversation is full of insights and practical advice for students and industry professionals alike.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• The appeal of hospitality education at HTMi and its unique offerings
• Real-world experiences and how internships play a crucial role in a student's career development.
• Navigating cultural differences and the power of adaptability in the hospitality industry.
• Current challenges in the industry, including the rise of AI and environmental concerns.
• The importance of soft skills, networking, and being open to global opportunities.

Why Our Guests Said, “I’m In!” and chose the HTMi to start their career in hospitality

Sofia: Passionate about hospitality's blend of luxury and personal interaction, Sofia chose HTMi for its strong reputation and real-world learning approach.

Ciprian: With a 14-year career in hospitality, Ciprian sees the value in HTMI's connections and hands-on learning, which set the foundation for his successful career so far.

Jane: Drawn by the international nature of hospitality and the stunning location of HTMi, Jane appreciates the dynamic and multicultural environment of the industry.

Ali: Aiming to align his career with Saudi Arabia's vision for hospitality, Ali values the extensive internship opportunities and practical experience offered by HTMi.

Patricia: From high school jobs to professional growth, Patricia sees HTMi as a place that shapes both personal and professional development.

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode:

• "The industry needs to think differently. Co-leadership and job-sharing could be the future of hospitality leadership." – Ali
• "Be empathetic. Embrace cultural diversity and develop strong networking skills." – Ciprian
• "Master the soft skills such as empathy, communication, because this is actually a universal language for the industry." – Jane

To learn more about the HTMi, visit their website at https://htmi.ch/

Join the Conversation:

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Instituteof Hospitality

Tune in to explore the future of hospitality through the eyes of international students poised to lead the industry forward!

We’d love your feedback!

Want to share your thoughts or put yourself forward as a future guest? Contact Phil Street at [email protected]