Kith and Kin Unscripted: Real Talk on Independent Hospitality

Kith and Kin Unscripted: Real Talk on Independent Hospitality

By Cassie Davison, Author of Stand Out HospitalityBusinessEntrepreneurship
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Kith and Kin Unscripted: Real Talk on Independent Hospitality episodes

  • Episode 24: From Secret Beginnings to Award-Winning Pubs with David Hage

    🎙️ Kith & Kin Podcast: Stories from the Hospitality Industry

    Host: Cassie Davison
    Guest: David Hage, Co-Founder of the Secret Pub Company

    In this episode, Cassie is joined by David Hage, one half of the dynamic duo behind the award-winning Secret Pub Company. David shares his 30-year journey through the hospitality industry, from his early days in health clubs and working for giants like David Lloyd and Nando's to co-founding a successful group of four premium gastro pubs across Nottinghamshire.

    David’s story highlights the balance between big business discipline and independent creativity, revealing the hard work, tough decisions, and passion it takes to succeed in the ever-challenging hospitality industry.

    🏆 From winning Licensee of the Year 2019 to navigating the turbulence of COVID-19, David discusses the highs and lows of running pubs, the importance of a great team, and his exciting plans for the future, including accommodation and diverse events.

    • The Early Days: How David transitioned from health clubs into hospitality.
    • The Secret Pub Company: Why it’s called “secret” and how it all began.
    • Award-Winning Success: Winning Licensee of the Year 2019 and the grueling process behind it.
    • Surviving COVID-19: The challenges of running pubs through the pandemic and beyond.
    • The Reality of Hospitality: Rising costs, staff retention, and the continued pressures on pubs.
    • Future Vision: Plans for events, weddings, and introducing B&B-style accommodation.

      • Visit David and the team at their four award-winning Nottinghamshire pubs:

      1. The Railway – Loudham
      2. The Radcliffe – Radcliffe-on-Trent
      3. The Plough – Normanton on the Wolds
      4. The Lambley – Lambley

        5. 🔎 Find out more: Search for the Secret Pub Company on Google or visit their locations for a fantastic experience.

        • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-hage-fbii-64b8552a/
        • Website: https://railwaylowdham.co.uk/

          • 🎧 Listen to the Full Episode
          Immerse yourself in David’s inspiring journey and discover what it really takes to create successful, customer-focused pubs.

          📢 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network.

          More from the Kith & Kin Podcast:
          📍 Real stories from hospitality professionals
          🎯 Insights, challenges, and opportunities in the industry
          💡 Tips to thrive in hospitality

          🎥 Visit Cassie’s YouTube Channel for more 👉 [Insert Link]

          📝 Want to grow your hospitality business?
          Check out Cassie’s Hospitality Made Easy Masterclass for strategies to connect with purpose, engage your team, and increase your profits.


          33 min
        • Episode 23: Crafting Careers & Cocktails – Jono Mayes on Campari, Hospitality, and the Power of Experience



          Host: Cassie Davison
          Guest: Jono Mayes, National Bartender Advocacy & Engagement Manager, Campari Group UK

          Episode Summary
          In this episode of The Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, Cassie reconnects with Jono Mayes after 15 years to hear his incredible journey through the hospitality industry. From early days in country pubs and cocktail bars to launching nightclubs and consulting internationally, Jono shares how his passion for drinks and hospitality shaped his career. Now with Campari Group UK, Jono leads bartender education and advocacy, helping shape the next generation of the industry.

          Key Highlights

          1. Jono’s Journey into Hospitality:

            • Starting out in Leicester’s country pubs and cocktail bars.
            • The pivotal moment: stepping behind the bar with zero experience to learn the craft.
            • Opening a nightclub in Leicester during the 2008 financial crisis and what it taught him.

            • Building Experience & Skills:

              • Time spent consulting across the UK and internationally, including in East Africa.
              • Joining BrewDog and launching Lone Wolf Spirits.
              • How Jono’s role at Campari Group UK blends education, advocacy, and creativity.

              • The Changing Face of the Drinks Industry:

                • The rise of discerning consumers seeking quality and unique experiences.
                • The cultural shift towards celebrating spirits and cocktails in the UK.
                • The power of hospitality experiences: “It’s not just about the drink, it’s about the moment.”

                • The Challenges & Rewards:

                  • The stark differences in hospitality attitudes between the UK and Europe.
                  • The ongoing challenge of showcasing hospitality as a fulfilling career path in the UK.
                  • Lessons learned, including reflections on a missed opportunity at Restaurant Sat Bains.

                  • Advice for Finding Great Bars:

                    • Ask the bartenders – they always know where to go!
                    • Championing hidden gems in regional cities and celebrating their unique offerings.

                      • Memorable Quote
                      "What percentage of the price of a drink is just the liquid in the glass? It’s the whole experience that makes it special." – Jono Mayes

                      Connect with Jono Mayes:

                      • Instagram: @JonoMayes
                      • Campari Academy UK:

                        • About the Host
                        Cassie Davison is a hospitality industry expert and the creator of Kith & Kin Hospitality. With over 30 years of experience, she brings authentic stories, strategies, and insights to those who live and breathe hospitality.

                        Listen & Subscribe:

                        • Follow Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast for more inspiring stories from real industry professionals.

                          • Let me know if you’d like tweaks or further refinements!

                          Here’s the updated About the Host section:

                          About the Host
                          Cassie Davison has over 30 years of experience setting up and running award-winning hospitality venues. Now, as a dedicated coach for independent hospitality business owners, she uses her expertise to help others navigate the challenges of the industry, develop clear strategies, and unlock growth opportunities. Through Kith & Kin Hospitality, Cassie champions collaboration, connection, and the stories that make the hospitality industry so special.


                          25 min
                        • Episode 22: Frances Gillespie – From the Pub Floor to HR Specialist: How People and Culture Drive Hospitality


                          Guest: Frances Gillespie – Founder of Frances Gillespie HR Consultancy

                          Overview:
                          In this episode of the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, I chat with Frances Gillespie, a seasoned hospitality HR consultant with a passion for helping businesses build engaged, thriving teams. Frances shares her journey from working on the pub floor to heading HR for major pub groups, and how her love for people led her to create her own HR consultancy.

                          From managing complex employment law changes to empowering managers with tools for compassionate leadership, Frances highlights why HR is essential for building a positive culture, boosting retention, and driving hospitality businesses forward.

                          ✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:

                          • Frances’ inspiring story: from starting in a golf club bar to leading HR for renowned pub companies.
                          • Why HR is not just about compliance but key to creating engaged, high-performing teams.
                          • The importance of “nipping it in the bud” and having tough but compassionate conversations.
                          • How to move away from annual appraisals and build meaningful 1-to-1 check-ins that drive engagement.
                          • Why HR training for managers is critical to avoiding costly mistakes.
                          • A practical look at current employment law challenges in hospitality (like tipping regulations and sexual harassment policy changes).

                            • 🗣 Key Quote:
                            "HR done well is about valuing your people, setting boundaries, and helping them thrive – because when your team feels valued, your business sings."

                            🎧 Where to listen:

                            • Spotify
                            • Apple Podcasts
                            • Your favorite podcast platform

                              • 📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube:
                              👉 https://www.youtube.com/@CassieDavison-KithKin

                              🔗 Connect with Frances:

                              • LinkedIn: Frances Gillespie
                              • Website: www.francesgillespiehrconsultancy.com

                                • About the Host:
                                Cassie Davison brings over 30 years of award-winning experience in hospitality, including running AA Rosette restaurants, winning Entrepreneur of the Year, and being featured in the Which Good Food Guide and Visit England’s Best Pub. Through Kith & Kin, Cassie champions growth, community, and purpose in hospitality – helping businesses and leaders be the best they can be.

                                33 min
                              • Episode 21: Why Hospitality? The Story Behind WHY Hospitality with Gareth Hazard & Alex Munford

                                Show Notes:

                                Welcome to Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, where we bring you real stories from the hospitality industry. In this episode, Cassie Davison sits down with Gareth Hazard and Alex Munford, the dynamic duo behind WHY Hospitality, to discuss their journeys, the inspiration for their business, and their mission to bring hospitality back to its roots.

                                • Getting to Know Gareth & Alex (00:01): Their diverse journeys in hospitality—from opening bars to managing restaurants.
                                • What is WHY Hospitality? (13:08): Learn how Gareth and Alex created WHY Hospitality to support businesses with training, resources, recruitment, and consultancy.
                                • Why Hospitality? (22:56): What makes the industry so special to Gareth and Alex, and why they’re passionate about giving back.
                                • Lessons From the Journey (26:52): The biggest mistakes they’ve made and the lessons that shaped their careers.
                                • Advice for Leaders (31:53): Insights into authentic leadership, culture alignment, and staying purpose-driven.
                                  • The inspiration behind Y Hospitality and its mission to empower hospitality businesses.
                                  • How their personal experiences and values shaped their careers and leadership styles.
                                  • Why culture, training, and compassion are essential for success in the industry.
                                    • "Hospitality is more than a job—it’s about creating spaces of belonging." – Gareth
                                    • "It’s not just about titles or pay; it’s about the impact you leave on people." – Alex
                                      • Follow Gareth Hazard and Alex Munford on LinkedIn for industry insights and updates.
                                      • Learn more about WHY Hospitality, their services, and their mission.

                                      • https://www.linkedin.com/in/gareth-hazard/
                                      • https://www.linkedin.com/in/whyleadership/
                                      • https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-hospitality-uk/posts/?feedView=all

                                        • About the Podcast:
                                        Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast explores the stories and lessons from those who live and breathe hospitality. Each episode dives into the challenges, triumphs, and purpose-driven journeys that define the industry.

                                        Subscribe to stay updated, and if you enjoyed this episode, share it with your community or leave us a review.

                                        In This Episode:Key Topics:Memorable Quotes:Connect with Gareth & Alex:

                                        34 min
                                      • BONUS EP20: The Value of a Purpose-Driven Business and How to Find Yours

                                        In this episode of the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, Cassie dives into one of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of running a hospitality business: discovering your purpose.

                                        Hospitality can feel overwhelming, with opinions and suggestions coming from every direction—suppliers, team members, and even customers. Add to that the constant challenges the industry brings, and it’s easy to lose focus. But here’s the game-changer: having a clear purpose.

                                        Cassie explores how purpose acts as the foundation of a thriving business. From guiding decisions to defining your brand’s personality, it impacts everything—your customers, team, and even your marketing.

                                        • The Importance of Purpose: Why it’s more than just a lofty ideal and how it simplifies decision-making.
                                        • How Purpose Transforms Your Business: From attracting loyal customers to creating a connected and motivated team.
                                        • Practical Tips for Finding Your Purpose: Cassie shares thought-provoking questions to help you uncover your ‘why’ and align it with your mission.
                                          1. What is your ‘why’? Why do you do what you do beyond making money?
                                          2. What made you fall in love with hospitality?
                                          3. Why does your business exist—what purpose does it serve for your customers?
                                          4. Who is your ideal customer, and how do they reflect your values?
                                          5. What is your story? How has your journey shaped your business?

                                            6. Cassie emphasizes that uncovering your purpose isn’t just about the big picture—it makes the everyday challenges easier to handle too. By connecting with your purpose, you create a business with meaning, clarity, and a compelling story that resonates with customers and team members alike.

                                            • "When your purpose is clear, recruitment and retention become easier. Your team connects with your values, and your customers become your storytellers."
                                            • "Reflecting on your purpose helps build a business you love—and makes hospitality a little less complicated."

                                              • Ready to uncover your purpose and transform your business?
                                              Join the Kith & Kin Hospitality Community and connect with like-minded professionals who share your challenges and aspirations. Discover how to build a purpose-driven business that you love.

                                              Visit: cassiedavison.co.uk

                                              What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Key Questions to Reflect On:Highlights:Call to Action:

                                              4 min
                                            • Episode 19: Crafting Brunch Excellence with Tom & Lee of Rustic Kitchen

                                              Show Notes:
                                              In this episode of the Kith & Kin Podcast, Cassie chats with Tom and Lee, the founders of Rustic Kitchen, an award-winning brunch café. They share their journey from fine dining to creating a relaxed, high-quality café, balancing family life, and striving for constant innovation.

                                              • (00:27) How Rustic Kitchen blends fine dining techniques with a casual vibe.
                                              • (10:08) Launching their café during COVID-19 and adapting to challenges.
                                              • (16:36) The value of consistency, quality, and customer experience.
                                              • (24:07) Lessons learned and their biggest takeaways from building a business.
                                              • (31:13) Behind the scenes of their podcast, What’s the Story? Hash Brown Glory.
                                                • Website: www.rustickitchendeli.com
                                                • Instagram: @RusticKitchenCo
                                                • Podcast: What’s the Story? Hash Brown Glory on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

                                                  • Join Tom and Lee as they share their passion for hospitality and their vision for the future of Rustic Kitchen.

                                                  Highlights:Connect with Rustic Kitchen:

                                                  33 min
                                                • Ep18: J Mark Dodds and the Fight for Fairness in the Pub Industry

                                                  Episode Summary:
                                                  In this episode of the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast: Stories from the Hospitality Industry, Cassie sits down with J Mark Dodds, a seasoned publican, advocate, and founder of the Fair Pint Campaign. Mark shares his fascinating journey in hospitality, from running the award-winning The Sun and Doves in Camberwell to leading a movement for fairer practices in the tied pub sector.

                                                  Mark discusses the challenges of operating under a tied lease, the systemic issues in the pub industry, and his vision for a fairer future through the People’s Pub Partnership—a socially conscious initiative aiming to revitalise pubs as community hubs.

                                                  Key Topics Covered:

                                                  • Mark’s journey into hospitality, starting in rural Northumberland.
                                                  • His experience managing The Sun and Doves, including the financial challenges of a tied lease.
                                                  • The Fair Pint Campaign and its role in lobbying for the 2016 Pub Code.
                                                  • The ongoing struggles tied tenants face despite legislative changes.
                                                  • The vision and goals of the People’s Pub Partnership.
                                                  • How pubs can be restored as vital community assets with investment, sustainability, and local focus.

                                                    • Highlights:

                                                    • [00:31] Mark introduces himself and his background in hospitality.
                                                    • [03:46] The story of The Sun and Doves: successes and challenges.
                                                    • [08:18] The founding of the Fair Pint Campaign and its impact.
                                                    • [20:16] The limitations of the Pub Code and what still needs to change.
                                                    • [33:33] Mark’s vision for the People’s Pub Partnership: a pub company for the future.

                                                      • Connect with J Mark Dodds:

                                                      • LinkedIn: J Mark Dodds
                                                      • Website: www.peoplespubpartnership.co.uk

                                                        • Join the Conversation:
                                                        Mark invites you to join the movement to transform the pub sector. Whether you’re a publican, investor, or community supporter, there’s a place for you in the People’s Pub Partnership.

                                                        Subscribe & Share:
                                                        If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast and share it with your network! Let’s keep the conversation about the future of hospitality going.

                                                        44 min
                                                      • Ep 17 From Polishing Cutlery to Six Venues: Sam Harrison’s Hospitality Journey

                                                        In this episode of Kith & Kin: Stories from the Hospitality Industry, Cassie is joined by Sam Harrison, an inspiring restaurateur with six thriving hospitality venues in West London. Sam shares his remarkable journey from working as a waiter for Rick Stein in Cornwall to managing prestigious restaurants, and eventually opening his own.

                                                        Together, Cassie and Sam reflect on:

                                                        • The early days of Sam’s career, including his time with Rick Stein and his foray into the corporate world.
                                                        • The challenges and lessons learned from launching and managing restaurants like Sam’s Brasserie in Chiswick.
                                                        • The changing landscape of the restaurant scene over the past 20 years—from the days of newspaper reviews to the rise of social media.
                                                        • Adapting to modern demands, including the creative use of spaces and evolving with customer needs.
                                                        • Sam’s candid experience with burnout, stepping back, and rebuilding with a focus on balance and passion.

                                                          • Sam’s insights, energy, and creativity shine as he shares the highs and lows of a life in hospitality. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone in the industry or anyone passionate about food, restaurants, and creating community spaces.

                                                          Resources & Links:

                                                          • Explore Sam’s venues: SamsRiverside.co.uk
                                                          • Follow Sam on Instagram: @SamsRiverside
                                                          • Get in touch: [email protected]

                                                            • Highlights:

                                                            • [02:30] Sam’s early career: From a catering assistant to his time at Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant.
                                                            • [07:00] Launching Sam’s Brasserie and Harrison’s—what it takes to start a successful restaurant.
                                                            • [13:00] The evolving hospitality industry and the pressures of running multiple venues.
                                                            • [22:00] Learning from burnout: How Sam approached building his new ventures.

                                                              • 29 min
                                                            • EP16: The Resilience of Pubs Post-COVID: A Journey Through the Challenges and Triumphs of the Pub Industry with Rob Allen

                                                              Host: Cassie Davison Guest: Rob, Former Publican & Founder of Lift BrandWorks Episode Summary: Join Cassie and Rob as they discuss the highs and lows of the pub industry, Rob's journey from managing pubs to launching his design business, and the impact of COVID-19 on publicans. Rob shares his personal experiences of resilience and adaptability in an ever-changing industry, highlighting the emotional and financial struggles pubs faced during lockdown and the unexpected new challenges that arose in its aftermath.

                                                              • Introduction to Rob's Story: Rob, a fourth-generation publican, shares memories from his family pub, experiences in hospitality, and what led him to pursue his own pub in Brighton, known for its award-winning roasts and vibrant atmosphere.

                                                              • The Impact of COVID-19: Rob recalls the sudden, surreal shock of closing his pub due to the pandemic. Facing a cellar full of beer, stocked fridges, and the uncertainty of how to move forward, he reflects on the difficult decisions and adaptations that followed.

                                                              • Challenges Beyond Lockdown: After reopening, Rob faced new obstacles, from supply chain disruptions to surging energy costs. He shares how these challenges pushed him to reevaluate his career in hospitality and consider new paths.

                                                              • Transition to a Design Business: During lockdown, Rob trained as a business coach and revisited his background in design, eventually founding Lyft Brand Works. His firm now supports pubs and hospitality businesses with affordable, industry-savvy design solutions.

                                                              • Finding Purpose & Balance: With a young family, Rob discusses the decision to leave full-time pub management, focusing instead on balancing family life with his passion for the industry.

                                                              • Future Aspirations in Hospitality: While Rob’s focus has shifted, he expresses his deep love for pubs and hopes to one day return to the industry. He shares thoughts on the importance of creating a sustainable hospitality career and supporting mental health and employee welfare.

                                                                • "Lockdown was the worst and best time of my life, all rolled into one."
                                                                • "The skills you learn in hospitality are second to none—you’re a chef, accountant, artist, and more."
                                                                • "If we want longevity in this industry, we need to support people’s mental health and make hospitality a career worth choosing."

                                                                  • Where to Find Rob:

                                                                  • LinkedIn: ⁠Rob’s LinkedIn⁠
                                                                  • Website: ⁠Lift BrandWorks

                                                                    • 30 min
                                                                  • EP15: Exploring Pub Culture, Community, and Careers in Hospitality with Poppy from Fuller’s

                                                                    Episode Description:
                                                                    In this episode of the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, Cassie speaks with Poppy, a business development manager at Fuller’s Smith & Turner, about her unique journey into the hospitality industry and the cultural essence of British pubs. From growing up in the pub scene to navigating a career that brings her back to her roots, Poppy shares insights on the allure and traditions of the pub industry, the challenges of running a pub, and why pubs are more than just places to drink—they’re community hubs steeped in culture.

                                                                    Key Highlights:

                                                                    • Poppy’s Journey into Hospitality: Growing up with parents in the pub business, Poppy developed a love for the industry. After studying anthropology and working in politics, her passion for hospitality called her back, leading her to roles in PR, craft beer, and eventually, business development at Fuller’s.

                                                                    • Understanding Fuller’s Tenancy Model: Poppy explains how Fuller’s operates tenanted pubs, where the pub company owns the property while independent business owners run each pub. She highlights how this model balances independence for tenants with support from the Fuller’s network, helping them thrive.

                                                                    • Finding the Right Tenant: Poppy’s role involves recruiting tenants who align with Fuller’s values and vision for each pub. She shares the importance of knowing the pub’s ideal direction, then networking with local talent, industry professionals, and even those from non-hospitality backgrounds to find the right fit.

                                                                    • The Role of Rituals and Culture in Pubs: With a background in anthropology, Poppy delves into the cultural importance of pubs, from the unspoken queue at the bar to the daily flow of different patrons. She sees pubs as unique social spaces that provide a backdrop for rituals and community-building.

                                                                    • Lessons Learned in Event Planning: Reflecting on her early days managing events, Poppy recounts an opera night that didn’t go as planned due to unforeseen logistical issues. This experience taught her the importance of preparation and adaptability, a common theme in hospitality.

                                                                    • Advice for Aspiring Pub Owners: Poppy provides valuable insights for those looking to run their own pub. She emphasizes the benefits of the tenanted model for those without deep pockets, but also highlights the need for financial preparedness and careful research.

                                                                      • Connect with Poppy:

                                                                      • LinkedIn: Poppy’s Profile
                                                                      • Instagram: Follow her journey at Pubs with Poppy for an inside look into pub life and highlights from her work with Fuller’s and other hospitality businesses.

                                                                        • Listen to the full episode to discover the stories, challenges, and joys behind one of Britain’s most cherished institutions—the pub!

                                                                        20 min

                                                                      About Kith and Kin Unscripted: Real Talk on Independent Hospitality

                                                                      From the publisher's feed

                                                                      Real talk on independent hospitality. Hospitality SME expert, speaker and author Cassie Davison shares the honest thinking behind running a small independent hospitality business, from pubs,…