In this engaging episode of "Talking Hospitality," hosts Timothy R Andrews and Tracey Rashid welcome the esteemed chef and restaurateur, Cyrus Todiwala OBE. Recorded at the bustling Cafe Spice Namaste, the episode delves into Todiwala's inspiring journey in the hospitality industry.

Guest: Cyrus Todiwala OBE

Hosts: Timothy R Andrews & Tracey Rashid

Key Points:

1. Cyrus Todiwala's Early Culinary Interests: Todiwala shares his childhood experiences that sparked his interest in cooking, including his early encounters with food while dealing with asthma.
2. Career Beginnings: His journey in hospitality began with a diploma in India, leading to a significant role at the Taj Mahal Hotel in Bombay.
3. Transition to the UK: Todiwala discusses the challenges and hurdles he faced in establishing himself in the UK hospitality scene, including a 10-year battle with the Home Office.
4. Establishing Cafe Spice Namaste: Insights into the establishment of his renowned restaurant and the unique challenges he faced.
5. Personal Life and Support: Todiwala highlights the importance of his wife's support in his career and personal life.
6. Community Contribution: His involvement in setting up the world's first Asian and Oriental School of Catering in Hackney Community College.
7. Quick Fire Round: A light-hearted segment where Todiwala answers rapid-fire questions, revealing more about his personality and preferences.

If you're a hospitality professional seeking inspiration and practical insights, this episode is a must-listen. Cyrus Todiwala's journey from a diploma student in India to a celebrated chef and restaurateur in the UK is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of supportive relationships. His story is not just about culinary excellence but also about navigating bureaucratic challenges, contributing to the community, and building a legacy in the hospitality industry. This episode offers a blend of personal anecdotes, professional wisdom, and engaging storytelling that will resonate with anyone passionate about hospitality.

This episode of "Talking Hospitality" is more than just a conversation; it's a journey through the life of a culinary visionary. Cyrus Todiwala's experiences, challenges, and triumphs offer invaluable lessons for anyone in the hospitality industry. His story is a powerful reminder of the impact one can have through dedication, creativity, and a deep love for the art of hospitality.

Chapters:

00:00

Immigrants in the UK hospitality landscape

01:10

Cyrus Todiwala's journey to the UK

02:04

The birth of Cafe Spice

03:18

Culinary interest and early experiences

05:07

Revamping Indian cuisine in the UK

06:25

Challenges in establishing Cafe Spice Namaste

08:16

Breaking barriers and changing perceptions

09:36

Advice for immigrants starting a business in hospitality

16:04

Resources and support systems for immigrants

21:22

Cyrus Todiwala's involvement in MasterChef

22:20

The importance of Cyrus Todiwala's wife in his journey

24:03

Quick fire round

MasterChef Special with Daksha Mistry, Pookie Tredell, Mike Bartley and Mikes Khan

Hosts: Timothy R. Andrews, Tracey Rashid, and Sarah Kettel

Dive into a captivating conversation with MasterChef stars and discover the heart of culinary passion and innovation. Join us in this special episode where we explore the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of these culinary artists.

Why Listen to This Episode:This episode is a must-listen for hospitality professionals seeking inspiration and insights from the world of competitive cooking. It offers a unique perspective on culinary passion, creativity, and the journey from television fame to real-world application.

The episode is filled with personal stories, professional advice, and a deep understanding of the culinary arts, making it an invaluable resource for those in the hospitality industry.

Key Points of Interest:

1. The Essence of Cooking with Heart: The guests discuss how cooking with love and passion is the true essence of culinary art, transcending the glitz of television shows like MasterChef.
2. Legacy Projects Post-MasterChef: The idea of MasterChef contestants coming together to cook for the public in a restaurant setting is floated, highlighting the potential for legacy projects beyond the show.
3. Challenges and Rewards of MasterChef: Contestants share their experiences on the show, discussing the pressures of cooking under the public eye and the personal and professional growth it spurred.
4. Advice for Aspiring Hospitality Professionals: The importance of passion and love for the craft is emphasized as crucial for anyone considering a career in hospitality or on shows like MasterChef.
5. Creativity in Culinary Arts: The discussion touches on the importance of creativity in cooking, and how this can be encouraged from a young age, particularly in educational settings.
6. Transition from TV to Real-World Cooking: Insights are shared on how experiences from MasterChef have been applied in real-world culinary settings, offering valuable lessons for listeners.
7. Focus on Fresh Ingredients and Resourcefulness: The episode delves into the importance of using fresh ingredients and being resourceful in the kitchen, especially in the context of the global health challenges posed by processed foods.

This episode of Talking Hospitality is a treasure trove of insights for hospitality professionals. It not only provides a behind-the-scenes look at the MasterChef experience but also delves into the deeper aspects of culinary passion and creativity. The stories and advice shared by the guests are both inspiring and practical, making this episode a valuable listen for anyone in the hospitality industry.

In an enlightening discussion on the empowerment of women in the hospitality sector, this episode of Talking Hospitality features a live recording from Lakefield Hospitality College in North West London, where we engage with Frankie Strinati.

The college, founded in 1962 with the explicit aim of promoting female participation in hospitality, stands as a testament to the evolution of gender roles within this industry.

Frankie shares her insights on the strategies employed at Lakefield, which emphasise the importance of a supportive, all-female learning environment that enables students to flourish without the pressures often associated with mixed-gender settings.

Throughout our conversation, we explore the challenges that young women face in pursuing careers in hospitality, particularly in securing leadership roles. Frankie highlights the college's comprehensive mentoring program, which is designed to bolster confidence and equip students with the skills necessary to excel in their careers.

This initiative not only addresses the prevalent self-doubt among female candidates but also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose among the students, who are encouraged to support one another in their professional journeys.

The episode also addresses the broader context of the hospitality industry, which is currently navigating a transformative period due to external pressures such as Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Frankie articulates the pressing need for employers to adapt their recruitment practices to attract and retain talent within the UK. By fostering an inclusive atmosphere and providing robust training and mentorship opportunities, employers can ensure that the next generation of hospitality professionals is well-equipped to lead and innovate.

This discussion serves as a crucial reminder of the role that education and mentorship play in shaping a diverse and equitable hospitality landscape.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the significance of empowering women within the hospitality industry, particularly through education and mentorship.
• Lakefield Hospitality College has a unique focus on female-only education, addressing the historical gender imbalance in the hospitality sector.
• The discussion highlights the importance of role models for young women aspiring to leadership positions in hospitality, showcasing successful female chefs and entrepreneurs.
• A pivotal point raised was that the hospitality industry must adapt to attract and retain female talent, particularly in balancing work-life commitments.
• The podcast illustrates the necessity of cultivating a supportive environment that fosters confidence and professional growth for young women in hospitality.
• Employers are encouraged to actively engage with educational institutions to recruit and nurture future talent, ensuring a sustainable workforce.

Links referenced in this episode:

• lakefieldhospitalitycollege

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Essence of Cake

Join the Conversation:

Visit us at https://www.talkinghospitality.com/

For more information on the topics discussed go to our blogs: https://www.talkinghospitality.com/blog/

Or if that's still not enough, get educated with our Hospitality courses at:

https://www.educatinghospitality.co.uk/

🎧 Tune in to listen to the latest episode from Talking Hospitality and for more touching stories and deep insights into the challenges and triumphs of the hospitality industry.

Ever wondered how storytelling can transform the hospitality industry? Join us in this enlightening episode with Phil Street, where we explore the art of narrative in shaping careers and changing perceptions. Dive into the world of hospitality through the lens of stories that inspire, educate, and entertain.

Introduction:

Welcome to a captivating episode of the Talking Hospitality podcast, where we delve into the integral role of storytelling in the hospitality industry. I'm Timothy R. Andrews, joined by Tracey Rashid, and today we're thrilled to host Phil Street, a renowned figure in the hospitality world, founder of Momentum Recruitment and Hospitality Meets.. podcast.

Why Listen to This Episode?

This episode is a must-listen for hospitality professionals seeking inspiration and insights. Phil Street, with his rich experience in hospitality and podcasting, shares invaluable perspectives on the industry. His stories and the discussion around the transformative power of storytelling in hospitality are enlightening, offering a fresh outlook on career development and industry dynamics.

Key Points from the Transcript:

1. Phil's Podcasting Journey: Phil discusses his motivation for starting the 'Hospitality Meets' podcast, emphasizing the need to shift the narrative towards positive experiences in the hospitality industry.
2. The Impact of Storytelling: Phil highlights the power of storytelling in portraying hospitality as an attractive career choice, using real-life stories to inspire and educate.
3. Memorable Guest Anecdotes: Phil shares fascinating anecdotes from his podcast guests, including an encounter with Raymond Blanc and a humorous story involving a vibrating Parmesan machine.
4. Diverse Career Paths: The conversation reveals that there's no single right way to build a career in hospitality, as evidenced by the varied journeys of Phil's podcast guests.
5. Phil's Recruitment Career: Phil shares his transition from hospitality to recruitment, driven by his passion for elevating people and enhancing their career experiences.
6. The Human Element in Recruitment: Phil emphasizes the importance of understanding candidates' stories and motivations, which is particularly significant in hospitality recruitment.
7. Passion vs. Monetary Gain: The discussion touches on the evolution of career motivations, highlighting the shift from chasing monetary rewards to seeking passion and fulfillment in one's career.

Ever wondered how storytelling can transform the hospitality industry? Join us in this enlightening episode with Phil Street, where we explore the art of narrative in shaping careers and changing perceptions. Dive into the world of hospitality through the lens of stories that inspire, educate, and entertain.

Conclusion:

This episode is a treasure trove of insights for hospitality leaders and professionals. Phil Street's experiences and the engaging discussion provide a unique perspective on the industry, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, passion, and human connections in shaping a fulfilling career in hospitality. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and inspiration from one of the industry's most influential voices.

Why Men in Hospitality Don’t Talk About Mental Health — and How We Change That

Men’s mental health in hospitality is still a taboo topic. In this honest episode, industry leaders share why that needs to change — and how we make it happen.

In this hard-hitting episode of Talking Hospitality, we tackle an issue that’s long been overlooked — men’s mental health in our industry. The statistics are stark: male hospitality workers are significantly more at risk of anxiety, burnout, and even suicide. But what’s behind the silence?

To explore this, we’re joined by a powerful panel of voices from across the sector:

• Joe McDonnell – 200 Hospitality
• Craig Prentice – mum. Hospitality Talent
• Paddy Howell – So Let’s Talk
• Frven Lim – WHAD Movement
• Aidan Fraser – Organic Recruitment

We discuss:

• Why men in hospitality still struggle to open up
• The outdated culture of "man up" and masking emotions
• How poor workplace design affects wellbeing
• What vulnerability in leadership really looks like
• Why Gen Z’s expectations are reshaping our industry
• Low-cost, high-impact ideas that employers can act on now
• How better staff spaces, community events and supplier partnerships can genuinely support teams

This episode is full of lived experience, real solutions, and an urgent call for cultural change.

Whether you’re a GM, a chef, a recruiter or a business owner — if you lead people, you need to hear this.

🎧 Tune in and let’s start creating workplaces where men can speak freely, lead authentically, and thrive.

👉 Explore more episodes, blogs and training at www.talkinghospitality.com

Your continued support helps us keep having the conversations that matter.

Eager for inspiration? Don't miss this Black History Month special of Talking Hospitality featuring the unstoppable Dawn Burton. More than just a culinary entrepreneur, she's a catalyst for change in Caribbean cuisine. We explore her career path, industry gaps, and why mentorship is often the overlooked secret sauce. This is an episode you'll regret skipping!

In the hospitality sector? Particularly in a leadership role? This episode is essential listening. Dawn Burton offers a novel outlook on both the hurdles and prospects in the Caribbean food industry. Her wisdom is not merely enlightening but also practical. Whether you're a business owner, a guide, or someone aiming for impactful change, this episode delivers the know-how and motivation you require.

• Self-Employment Among Ethnic Minorities: A new study reveals that ethnic minorities in hospitality are threefold more likely to be self-employed, prompting inquiries about existing support mechanisms.
• Significance of Mentorship: A staggering 79% of black industry respondents deem mentorship vital for career growth. Dawn Burton exemplifies this, offering her mentorship generously.
• Adaptability of Caribbean Cuisine: Dawn talks about the unique selling point of Caribbean food—its versatility. From jerk spices to tropical chutneys, the food can be tailored to individual preferences.
• Origins of Carib Burton Caterers: Dawn narrates her transition from hotel employment to launching her Caribbean catering venture, underlining the value of dedication and the delight in crafting meals that resonate with people.
• Tackling Food Scarcity: Actively participating in social work, Dawn provides meals to at-risk kids during academic breaks. She emphasizes the ongoing nature of this problem.
• Caribbean Food Collective & UK Caribbean Food Awards: Co-founded by Dawn, these platforms aim to fill an industry void by offering backing and accolades to Caribbean food enterprises.

Dawn Burton is nothing short of a dynamo. Her life story serves as a riveting tale of individual influence in a broader field. The episode also highlights the critical role of mentorship and communal backing, particularly for ethnic minorities. Isn't it high time we all took inspiration from Dawn and pondered how we can make the hospitality sector more welcoming and nurturing?

• Enhance Mentorship Initiatives: Given the premium placed on mentorship, especially by black participants, the industry needs more organized mentorship schemes.
• Civic Collaboration: Companies should partner with governmental bodies to tackle food scarcity, inspired by Dawn's initiatives.
• Embrace Cultural Richness: The industry could benefit from more platforms like the Caribbean Food Collective and UK Caribbean Food Awards to honor and assist the diverse culinary landscapes and traditions.

This episode is a goldmine of valuable insights, extending beyond Caribbean cuisine to the hospitality industry as a whole. Dawn Burton embodies how zeal, diligence, and community focus can set off a wave of positive transformation. So, why hesitate? Listen in and be moved to make your own meaningful contribution!

Is Hospitality Racist?

In our season 3 finale, hosts Timothy R. Andrews & Sarah Kettel partner up with our third, special guest host Tracey Rashid.

Together they take a deep dive into the 2023 Be Inclusive Hospitality report about equality, diversity & inclusion within the Hospitality industry.

They are joined by CEO & Founder of Be Inclusive Hospitality, Lorraine Copes and her story, how Be Inclusive Hospitality came about and what is it.

They discuss some surprising results from the report and what can be done to make the findings in the report become the catalyst for change

There is still work to be done. This episode shares what you can do about it.

***

More information on Lorraine Copes & Be Inclusive Hospitality can be found at:

Lorraine Copes

Be Inclusive Hospitality

To Download The 2023 Report

***

For more information on equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) available visit:

EDI Training & Courses

***

Timothy put the Kettel on is Co-hosted by:

Timothy R. Andrews

Sarah Kettel

Tracey Rashid

***

Editing & Visuals by: Timothy R Andrews

Theme Tune: "Mandarin & Chocolate" by Doriane Woo

Feat voiceover artist, Lara Rathod

Sound Effects by: Epidemic Sound

Raffles is heading to London and is making a stir!

Whether you like it shaken or stirred, Timothy R. Andrews and co-host Sarah Kettel look beyond the Singapore Sling with OWO's talented Nathan Craigie, who is heading up their recruitment drive.

Whilst being a world-renowned name has no doubt helped the hotel in it's hiring, so has it's many innovative recruitment strategies, some of which Nathan shares in this episode.

At the heart of it all, however, is that staff are treated well, fairly and have a chance to contribute to their own success as well as that of the hotel.

Nathan reveals how treating employees as important as the guests is key to the success of the hotel and that the importance of team events.

A fascinating conversation about a very traditional name has very modern and forward thinking ideas, showing why it is one of the top names in the Hotel industry.

Unfortunately we would like to apologise for the audio issue affecting our guest and hope it doesn't hamper what is ultimately a very fascinating and insightful episode.

***

More information on Nathan Craigie can be found at:

Linkedin

Raffles London at the OWO

Jobs at Raffles

***

Timothy put the Kettel on is Co-hosted by:

Timothy R. Andrews

Sarah Kettel

***

Editing & Visuals by: Timothy R Andrews

Theme Tune: "Mandarin & Chocolate" by Doriane Woo

Feat voiceover artist, Lara Rathod

Sound Effects by: Epidemic Sound

Why is alcohol abuse still the norm in hospitality? Shell Righini joins us to challenge stigma, share her recovery story, and offer hope and solutions.

In this deeply personal and refreshingly honest episode, we speak with Shell Righini, host of We Recover Loudly, a podcast changing the conversation around addiction and sobriety in hospitality.

Shell shares her powerful story of working her way through the industry while navigating alcohol misuse — and how she found the strength to build a sober life without leaving hospitality behind.

Together, we explore the industry's ingrained drinking culture, its impact on mental health, and what real support for addiction could and should look like in our workplaces.

We cover:

• Why “after work drinks” aren’t working for the next generation
• Shell’s personal journey from alcohol dependence to recovery
• Signs managers should watch out for (and what not to ignore)
• The difference between celebration and coping mechanisms
• What Gen Z's sober curiosity means for recruitment and retention
• Practical advice for employers worried about a team member’s drinking
• How to create a culture where it's safe to say “I’m not okay”

This is a raw and hopeful episode that challenges assumptions and offers real-world actions for anyone in hospitality — whether you drink or not.

🎧 Plus: Michelle’s podcast tips, chocolate cravings, and why she believes Lily Allen definitely stole her style.

👉 Explore more episodes, blogs and hospitality training at www.talkinghospitality.com

📲 Follow Shell on Instagram @WeRecoverLoudly or visit www.werecoverloudly.com

This episode is brought to you with the support of our amazing brand partners:

In this very special 30th episode we look at:

• What Michelle's incredible journey has been
• How to recognise if you might have a problem
• What to do if someone at work is potentially suffering from addiction
• and, how to lead by example

And if that's not good enough we also put Michelle through Put The Cuppa Down Quick Fire round!

Guest Tracey Rashid co-hosts with Timothy R. Andrews for this episode.

We Recover Loudly (website)

We Recover Loudly podcast (Apple)

We Recover Loudly podcast (Spotify)

Linkedin

If you need help please also check out:

The Drinks Trust

The Burnt Chef Project

Choose Sunrise

Hospitality Action

To hear the episode from Lynn Maltmann about going alcohol free

***

Editing & Visuals by: Timothy R Andrews

Theme Tune: "Mandarin & Chocolate" by Doriane Woo

Feat voiceover artist, Lara Rathod

Sound Effects by: Epidemic Sound

Today, CEO and founder of award-winning Hospitality & professional training & apprenticeship provider Umbrella Training, Adele Oxberry joins hosts Timothy R Andrews & Sarah Kettel to talk about her journey into Hospitality and how she is on a mission to fix the industry!

In this wonderfully interesting episode Adele shares

• How an inspirational mother led her to where she is today
• How Apprenticeships are a solution to the recruitment issues in Hospitality
• How to get funding for Apprenticeships
• How Hospitality needs to rebrand itself
• and of course... The Quick Fire Round: Put The Cuppa Down Question Time!

A fun, inspirational look at just one of the many journeys Hospitality can lead you to.

***

More information on Adele Oxberry & Umbrella Training can be found at:

Adele Oxberry (Linkedin)

Umbrella Training

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Timothy put the Kettel on : Talking Hospitality is Co-hosted by:

Timothy R. Andrews &

Sarah Kettel

***

Editing & Visuals by: Timothy R Andrews

Theme Tune: "Mandarin & Chocolate" by Doriane Woo

Feat voiceover artist, Lara Rathod

Sound Effects by: Epidemic Sound

"Jacob Allen Evil Laugh" by Deven Garber, Freesound.org