In this episode we speak with 3x hugely interesting guests from the Arts & Hospitality industry;

• Brian Donaldson - Self-employed chef & representative for #ExcludedNI
• Stevie Higginson - Proprietor & chef of Square Bistro, Lisburn
• Neil Collins - Self-employed musician

Throughout the conversation we explore how both industries have navigated COVID-19 and the restrictions and regulations enforced upon them, how mixed messaging and inconsistency from government has impacted livelihoods and mental health and what it will take for us all to get out the other side of COVID-19 with the Arts & Hospitality industries still intact.

In this first episode of the In The Hotseat podcast, we interview Aodhán Connolly, Director of the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium (NIRC) on all things Brexit & how the retail industry has managed to navigate COVID-19 and a global pandemic. 

Aodhán outlines why we should feel optimistic that a trade deal will be agreed between Britain and the EU, just over 2 months out from Britain officially leaving - and explains how retailers have adapted over the last 7 months with COVID.

We also hear from Aodhán and find out a bit more about the man behind the beard! From what makes him tick, to how he looks after his physical and mental health.

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