Welcome to Talking Hospitality, where we’re all about real conversations, fresh insights, and actionable solutions for today’s hospitality leaders. Whether you’re managing a restaurant, running a hotel, or leading a team in hospitality, this podcast brings together industry pros with one goal: to help you tackle challenges, stay ahead of trends, and lead with confidence.
Hosted by Timothy R Andrews, Tracey Rashid, and Joe McDonnell, each episode dives into hot topics—think recruitment strategies, mental health, sustainability, tech innovations, and more. But we don’t stop at identifying issues; we’re all about finding solutions that work. Our guests aren’t here to vent—they’re here to provide practical advice, tips, and strategies that you can put into practice immediately.
With a mix of industry insights, real-life examples, and solutions-focused discussions, Talking Hospitality is here to support and empower hospitality professionals who are looking to make a positive impact. Perfect for those with packed schedules, each episode is designed to offer maximum insight in a short, engaging format.
Support the podcast by purchasing hospitality e-learning courses from Educating Hospitality or by buying us a coffee—every little helps us keep the valuable content coming!
So, if you’re ready to boost your hospitality skills and gain fresh perspectives from industry experts, hit play and join the conversation.
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In the first ever unedited episode since episode 1, join us for the finale of Season Four. Tracy Rashid and Timothy R. Andrews reflect on the amazing journey they've had recording the season.
They express their gratitude to the guests and listeners who have supported them. The hosts discuss the filming of Zest Quest Asia and the evolution of the podcast, from online interviews to future Vox Pox formats.
They also share their favourite episodes and highlight the impact the podcast has had on them as hosts, but also to listeners who have shared their stories.
The episode concludes with a teaser for Season Five and the announcement of a short break.
Unedited. Unabridged. Warts n All. Wrapped in a theme tune.
Takeaways
Express gratitude to guests and listeners for their support.
Reflect on the evolution of the podcast and the filming of special episodes.
Highlight favorite episodes and the impact the podcast has had on listeners.
Tease Season Five and announce a short break.
Chapters
00:00 Season Four Wrap-Up
01:34 Filming ZestQuest Asia
03:53 Appreciation for Guests and Listeners
06:20 Every Voice Can Shape the Future
08:45 Favourite Episodes
09:21 Future Growth and Audience Input
10:21 Impact of the Podcast
10:50 Taking a Short Break
11:20 Season Five Teaser
How Can We Create Women Leaders in Hospitality?
Season 4 · Episode 43
Tuesday, February 20, 2024 • Duration 37:50
Women leadership in the hospitality industry remains a significant issue, with women holding less than 40% of managerial positions despite making up a large portion of the workforce. This podcast dives deep into the challenges faced by women in hospitality leadership roles and explores actionable solutions to empower them. Hosts Timothy R. Andrews and Tracy Rashid are joined by industry leaders Monica Orr, Marcia Bennett, Michelle Raghini, and Michelle Moreno, who share their personal journeys and insights on fostering an environment conducive to female advancement. The conversation highlights the necessity of mentorship, networking, and creating supportive communities to boost confidence among women in the field. As they reflect on their experiences, the guests emphasize the importance of breaking down barriers and encouraging more women to pursue leadership opportunities in hospitality.
Ever wondered why, in an industry powered by women, so few reach the top? Join us as we unravel the complexities of female leadership in hospitality, with stories that inspire, challenges that resonate, and solutions that empower. This isn't just a conversation; it's a movement towards a more inclusive future. Tune in to be part of the change.
In this compelling episode of Talking Hospitality, hosts Timothy R. Andrews and Tracey Rashid are joined by a stellar lineup of guests: Monica Or, Marsha Barnett, Michelle Moreno and Shell Righini.
Together, they tackle the pressing issue of Women Leadership in Hospitality, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities for female leaders in the sector.
Why You Should Listen:
If you're passionate about fostering a more inclusive and equitable hospitality industry, this episode is a must-listen. It's not just a conversation; it's a call to action for everyone in the industry to reflect on how we can support and empower women to climb the leadership ladder. With insights from women who've navigated these challenges firsthand, you'll be inspired to make positive changes in your own professional environment.
Key Points of Interest:
Underrepresentation of Women in Leadership: Despite women constituting a significant portion of the hospitality workforce, their presence in managerial and executive roles is disproportionately low.
When Talking Hospitality Meets Hospitality Meets...
Season 4 · Episode 34
Wednesday, November 29, 2023 • Duration 22:06
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Phil's Recruitment Career: Phil shares his transition from hospitality to recruitment, driven by his passion for elevating people and enhancing their career experiences.
Why Men in Hospitality Don’t Talk About Mental Health — and How We Change That
Season 4 · Episode 33
Sunday, November 19, 2023 • Duration 46:25
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
What’s Driving the Rise of Caribbean Cuisine in the UK?
Season 4 · Episode 32
Wednesday, October 25, 2023 • Duration 17:29
In this special episode, we’re joined by Dawn Burton — speaker, entrepreneur, founder of Carol Burton Caterers, co-founder of the Caribbean Food Collective, and creator of the UK Caribbean Food Awards.
Dawn shares her story of moving from a hotel career into catering, the challenges of setting up her own business, and why she’s committed to making sure Caribbean food and entrepreneurs get the recognition they deserve. From cooking thousands of meals for children during school holidays to handing out roast dinners to the hidden homeless at Christmas, Dawn’s work goes far beyond business — it’s about community, culture, and giving back.
We also discuss why Caribbean food businesses have been overlooked in the past, how the Collective came together to provide a voice for the sector, and what it means to celebrate the very best at the inaugural Caribbean Food Awards.
It’s an inspiring conversation about resilience, heritage, and making space for communities that have too often been left out of the room.
Takeaways:
In June 2023, a report revealed ethnic minority individuals in hospitality are three times more likely to be self-employed than white counterparts, highlighting industry disparities.
Over 79% of Black respondents found mentorship to be the most effective form of career support, emphasizing the importance of guidance in career advancement.
Dawn Burton, a passionate entrepreneur, created the Caribbean Food Collective to foster community support and representation in the food industry.
The Caribbean Food Awards were established to celebrate and recognize excellence in Caribbean cuisine and its entrepreneurs, filling a significant void in the awards landscape.
Dawn shared her journey from working in hotels to founding her caterings business, illustrating the challenges and joys of entrepreneurship in the food sector.
The podcast underscores the ongoing issues of food insecurity, especially for vulnerable children during holidays, reminding us of the importance of community support and action.
Is Hospitality Racist?
Season 3 · Episode 31
Wednesday, July 26, 2023 • Duration 19:14
In this powerful season finale, we’re joined by Lorraine Copes, Founder and CEO of Be Inclusive Hospitality, for a conversation that every hospitality professional needs to hear.
“This is not the place for performance. This is people’s lives.” – Lorraine Copes
We explore the hard-hitting findings of the 2023 Inside Hospitality report — the only one of its kind focused specifically on race equity in the UK hospitality sector. Lorraine shares the lived experience behind the data, her motivation for launching Be Inclusive Hospitality, and what it’s really going to take to make lasting change.
From underrepresentation in senior roles to lack of accountability for discriminatory behaviour, Lorraine lays out the barriers — and more importantly, what can be done to break them down. We also discuss the limits of “performative inclusion”, the companies doing the real work, and why employers must stop waiting for permission to act.
Lorraine’s story isn’t just about pointing out problems — it’s about building something better, creating safe spaces, and showing what’s possible when purpose and action align.
If you’ve ever asked yourself how you can be part of the solution, this episode is your starting point.
Takeaways:
The podcast dives deep into the question of whether hospitality is inherently racist, sparking critical conversations about discrimination in the industry.
Lorraine Copes, the founder and CEO of Be Inclusive Hospitality, shares her inspiring journey and the motivations behind creating her organization.
The Inside Hospitality report reveals shocking statistics, indicating that 62% of black and Asian participants experience racial bias in the workplace.
Only half of those who witnessed discrimination felt they could report it, highlighting a systemic issue within reporting mechanisms in hospitality.
The podcast emphasizes the importance of taking actionable steps to create inclusive work environments, focusing on education and awareness as vital tools for change.
Listeners are encouraged to visit Be Inclusive Hospitality's website to access their latest report, which provides valuable insights into diversity and inclusion in hospitality.
How Can You Recruit In Hospitality With Ways That Work?
Season 3 · Episode 30
Wednesday, July 19, 2023 • Duration 21:38
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:
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.
This episode is brought to you with the support of our amazing brand partners:
How Can Apprenticeships Fix Hospitality’s Recruitment Crisis?
Season 3 · Episode 28
Wednesday, July 5, 2023 • Duration 18:51
This episode focuses on recruitment, perception and the future of hospitality, through the lens of apprenticeships and long-term career pathways.
Timothy R Andrews and Sarah Kettel are joined by Adele Oxberry, Founder and CEO of Umbrella Training, who shares her journey from housekeeping to running a specialist hospitality training business.
Adele reflects on growing up in hospitality, starting work at 14, and progressing through housekeeping, front office and leadership roles before moving into education and training. She explains how apprenticeships have evolved, why their reputation still lags behind reality, and how they can directly address labour shortages, skills gaps and retention issues across the sector.
The conversation explores perception problems in hospitality, the impact of the pandemic on young people’s confidence and communication, and why schools, employers and government all have a role to play in reshaping how hospitality careers are viewed. Adele also breaks down how apprenticeship funding works, including levy accounts, shared funding and why so much available training budget still goes unused.
This is a practical and optimistic episode about rebuilding confidence, investing in people, and using apprenticeships as a genuine route into sustainable hospitality careers.
In this episode, we discuss:
Adele Oxberry’s journey from housekeeping to CEO
Why hospitality struggles with perception and recruitment
The impact of the pandemic on young people entering work
Gen Z career expectations and fast-track progression
How apprenticeships support recruitment and retention
Apprenticeship levy funding and unspent training budgets
How large employers can support SMEs through levy sharing
Apprenticeships from Level 2 to Level 7 in hospitality
Why hospitality needs a stronger voice at government level
Changing the narrative around hospitality careers
Hosts:
How To Give Hospitality Workers A Reason To Get Up In The Morning
Season 3 · Episode 27
Wednesday, June 28, 2023 • Duration 22:43
This uplifting episode sees recruitment guru for Everyman Cinemas, Mike Newman join us for this extremely informative podcast.
Many people don't think of Cinema as being part of Hospitality but Everyman Cinema turns this on it's head.
Mike shares some of the struggles but reveals how he & Everyman have faced those struggles head on & how they continue to build solutions proactively.
Mike reveals how employees and the community are key to the success of the business and that the work to improve their employee offer is ongoing.
A fascinating insight into a world where film & Hospitality combine.
We also find out more about the man behind the incredible Linkedin posts and what "C" word he doesn't want to use but very quickly does!
Unfortunately there were a number of technical issues meaning that Sarah had to lead most of the show and we hope that some of the audio issues affecting our guest does not hamper the show.
Breaking Barriers: The episode explores how societal expectations and industry norms create barriers for women, and what can be done to dismantle these obstacles.
Empowerment through Education: Monica Or's journey from a hospitality professional to a bestselling author and educator highlights the power of knowledge and mentorship in empowering the next generation of female leaders.
Creating Support Networks: Shell Righini's transition from frontline hospitality roles to advocating for mental health and inclusivity underscores the importance of support networks and mentorship.
Visibility and Representation: The guests discuss the critical role of visibility and representation in inspiring and empowering women to pursue leadership roles.
Challenges and Solutions: Real-life examples of overcoming gender biases and practical solutions for creating a more inclusive industry are shared.
The Power of Networking: The episode emphasizes the importance of networking and mentorship in advancing one's career and fostering a community of support among women in hospitality.
This episode of Talking Hospitality is more than just a discussion; it's a beacon of hope and a roadmap for aspiring female leaders in the hospitality industry. By highlighting the challenges, celebrating the successes, and offering tangible solutions, it serves as a valuable resource for anyone committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in their professional sphere.
Let's take these insights and turn them into action, for a hospitality industry where everyone has the opportunity to lead and succeed.
Takeaways:
Women make up a significant portion of the hospitality workforce but hold less than 40% of managerial positions.
The industry must foster environments where women feel empowered to pursue leadership roles without fear of judgment.
Creating a supportive sisterhood among women in hospitality can help boost confidence and visibility.
Mentorship programs are crucial for developing female leaders in the hospitality sector.
Networking is essential for career advancement and should not be seen as a dirty word.
Addressing issues like burnout and addiction is vital for supporting women in hospitality careers.
Companies mentioned in this episode:
Star Quality Hospitality
Caribbean Food Collective
UK Caribbean Food Awards
Just Eat
Radical Hospitality
QAB Leadership
Graphic Kitchen
The Human Element in Recruitment: Phil emphasizes the importance of understanding candidates' stories and motivations, which is particularly significant in hospitality recruitment.
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.
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