Talking Hospitality podcast

Talking Hospitality
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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.

  1. Fighting For Hospitality's Future

    FEB 11

    Fighting For Hospitality's Future

    In this episode, Timothy R Andrews sits down with operator and campaigner Andy Lennox in the Old Thatch pub in Dorset to talk about what’s really happening behind the scenes in hospitality right now. Andy shares his journey from building Co-Tai into a multi-site business (and the reality of private equity ownership), to launching Nusara, and growing a pub portfolio in a market that keeps getting tougher. The conversation moves quickly from business story to industry survival. Andy explains why the sector is “busy but broke”: rising utilities, rent pressure, business rates shocks, and margins shrinking to the point where reinvestment becomes impossible. He unpacks the Wonky Table campaign, why the “no Labour MPs” sticker spread, and how press, trade bodies and political pressure combine when an industry finally decides it’s had enough. It’s a practical, blunt, and sometimes controversial discussion about tax reform, VAT, business rates, and why hospitality needs to get better at explaining its economic importance — and the consequences when it isn’t heard.

    33 min
  2. How Do You Make Apprenticeships Successful?

    JAN 29

    How Do You Make Apprenticeships Successful?

    This episode explores what actually makes apprenticeships successful in hospitality — and why commitment from employers matters more than funding or frameworks. Timothy R Andrews and Joe McDonnell are joined by Neil Gander and Lucy Grant-Evans from Electric Mayonnaise, who share their experience of delivering apprenticeships as part of a wider learning and development approach. The conversation looks at why apprenticeships fail when they’re treated as a tick-box exercise, how over-promotion creates leadership gaps, and why many managers are expected to lead teams without ever being taught how. Neil and Lucy explain why taking training into the business, using project-based learning, and genuinely supporting learners leads to better outcomes for both people and organisations. This is a practical episode for hospitality employers who want apprenticeships to improve retention, build stronger leaders, and protect their employer brand. In this episode, we discuss: What makes apprenticeships succeed in hospitalityWhy employer commitment is the deciding factorApprenticeships as part of a wider L&D strategyOver-promotion and leadership without trainingSupporting learners beyond “free training”Project-based learning that adds real business valueApprenticeships for managers, not just new startersReducing stigma around the word “apprenticeship” Takeaways Apprenticeships succeed when employers stay involved Learners need support, not just enrolment.Funding doesn’t replace leadership Even fully funded programmes fail without day-to-day encouragement.Many hospitality managers are promoted without training Apprenticeships help close critical leadership gaps.Learning works best inside the business On-site workshops and real projects drive better results.A failed apprenticeship damages employer brand Broken promises lead to disengagement and turnover.Reframing apprenticeships removes resistance Positioning them as development programmes increases buy-in. Links referenced in this episode: a

    23 min
  3. How Can You Use the Growth & Skills Levy Properly?

    JAN 16

    How Can You Use the Growth & Skills Levy Properly?

    This episode explores why hospitality continues to lose people, skills and funding — and what can actually be done about it. Timothy R Andrews is joined by Vicky Glover, Founder of Appetite 4 Apprenticeships, for a clear, practical conversation about apprenticeships, retention and the realities facing hospitality employers. Vicky explains how the apprenticeship levy works, why billions of pounds go unused every year, and how large organisations can legally gift funding to SMEs that desperately need training support. The discussion covers why 43% of hospitality workers leave within their first three months, how poor onboarding damages the industry’s reputation, and why apprenticeships are often misunderstood or badly implemented. The episode also looks at social mobility, diversity and long-term career progression — challenging the idea that apprenticeships are only for entry-level roles. From sole traders to multi-site operators, this conversation breaks down how apprenticeships can be used to retain people, reduce costs, and build stronger teams when budgets are under pressure. This is a practical episode for owners, operators and leaders who want their people to stay — but aren’t sure where to start. In this episode, we discuss: Why £3.3bn in apprenticeship funding goes back to government unusedHow the apprenticeship levy actually worksWhy 43% of hospitality workers leave within three monthsApprenticeships as a retention and engagement toolGifting levy funding from large businesses to SMEsChoosing the right training provider for your operationApprenticeships for existing staff, not just new startersCost savings, National Insurance relief and funding benefitsSocial mobility and widening access to hospitality careersWhy onboarding is as important as guest experience Takeaways: Hospitality is losing people early — and fast43% of workers leave within three months, often due to poor onboarding and lack of development.Billions in training funding go unusedApprenticeship levy money expires if it isn’t spent — and most businesses don’t realise it.Apprenticeships aren’t just for school leaversThey work for supervisors, managers and existing team members at every level.SMEs can access levy funding they don’t pay intoLarge organisations can gift unused levy to smaller operators.span class="ql-ui"...

    26 min
  4. How Climbing A Mountain Changed My Life

    JAN 9

    How Climbing A Mountain Changed My Life

    This remastered bonus episode revisits a powerful conversation first recorded in 2020, where a walk up a mountain becomes a turning point for life and career. Hosts Timothy R Andrews and Sarah Kettel are joined by events professional and author Paul Cook, who shares the story of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro — and how the experience fundamentally changes how he sees work, purpose and success. What begins as a casual decision made in a pub quickly becomes a physically demanding and emotionally revealing journey. As Paul climbs higher, everyday noise falls away. Material concerns lose their importance. Trust, humility and teamwork come to the forefront — particularly through the guidance and care of the local crew and porters who make the climb possible. Through exhaustion, fear and vulnerability on summit night, Paul reaches a moment of clarity that stays with him long after he comes back down the mountain. The episode explores career change, respect for unseen roles, and the courage it takes to walk away from work that no longer feels right. This is a reflective, human story about slowing down, listening properly, and realising when it’s time to choose a different path. In this episode, we explore: Why Paul agrees to climb Mount Kilimanjaro without expecting it to change anythingPreparing physically and mentally for a climb of this scaleTrusting experts when you’re out of your depthThe role of guides and porters — and respect for invisible labourSummit night, altitude sickness and mental shutdownReaching the top and experiencing clarity rather than celebrationReturning home with a changed perspective on work and lifeMaking the decision to leave a career that no longer fits Hosts: Timothy R AndrewsSarah Kettel Guest: Paul Cook — Events professional and author Sometimes clarity only comes when noise disappears Stepping away from routine creates space to think differently.Trust matters when you don’t know what you’re doing Listening to experts can be the difference between success and failure.Invisible roles carry enormous responsibility The people behind the scenes often make everything possible.Physical challenge exposes emotional truth Fatigue strips away ego, certainty and pretence.li...

    22 min
  5. How Do You Get Through Christmas Working in Hospitality?

    12/23/2025

    How Do You Get Through Christmas Working in Hospitality?

    This Christmas special explores what it really takes to get through the festive season while working in hospitality. The Talking Hospitality hosts come together for an open, honest conversation about pressure, resilience, wellbeing and community at one of the most demanding times of the year. The episode blends humour and reflection with serious discussion around mental health, sobriety, burnout and support. It features contributions from the Hospitality Choir in support of Hospitality Action, alongside practical guidance and resources shared by Kelly’s Cause for anyone struggling during the festive period. Rather than pretending Christmas is easy, this episode acknowledges the reality of long hours, emotional labour and exhaustion — while offering reassurance, perspective and practical support. It’s a reminder that you’re not weak for finding this time hard, and you’re not alone in getting through it. Show Notes: The realities of working through Christmas in hospitalityWhy festive pressure hits hospitality teams differentlyMental health, anxiety and recognising when support is neededSobriety, self-care and celebrating in different waysThe Hospitality Choir’s Christmas single supporting Hospitality ActionSupport available through Kelly’s Cause during the festive periodPractical mental health resources available 24/7 over ChristmasLeadership, responsibility and looking ahead to the new year Featured contributors & organisations: The Talking Hospitality hostsHospitality Choir – Always Open at ChristmasHospitality ActionKelly’s CauseSamaritans, Shout & NHS mental health services Big Thank You to our sponsors: Hospitality Jobs UK Graphic Kitchen Piss'd Game Links referenced in this episode: https://thehospitalitychoir.org/kellyscause.comTech on Toast PodcastWe Recover Loudlyspan...

    36 min
  6. Can You Build A Successful Career As A Single Parent?

    12/12/2025

    Can You Build A Successful Career As A Single Parent?

    What does leadership look like when you’re raising children on your own, running a business, and carrying responsibilities that don’t switch off at 5pm? In this episode, Dawn Lawrence, Founder and CEO of Hospitality Jobs UK, shares a deeply honest account of building a career while navigating single parenthood, financial pressure, judgment, and self-doubt. Dawn reflects on leaving school at 16, finding confidence through hospitality, rising into senior corporate roles, and ultimately setting up her own recruitment business as a single mum. She speaks openly about the moments of struggle, the fear of being judged, and the turning point that came from asking for help. Throughout the conversation, one message runs consistently through it all: success isn’t about perfection — it’s about resilience, priorities, and the quality of time we give to the people who matter most. This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t always loud or polished. Sometimes it’s about keeping going, making hard choices, and doing the best you can with what you have. Show NotesIn this episode, we discuss: Dawn Lawrence’s journey from leaving school at 16 to founding Hospitality Jobs UKThe realities of single parenthood while leading teams and businessesWhy asking for help is not weakness, but leadershipThe pressure single parents feel at work — and why so many hide itQuality vs quantity when it comes to time with childrenFlexible working, trust, and transparency in modern workplacesHow adversity shaped Dawn’s leadership style Key Takeaways: Leadership and parenting are not separate skillsThe ability to prioritise, adapt, and stay resilient shows up in both roles — often at the same time.Quality time matters more than hours loggedChildren remember presence, not perfection. Small, meaningful moments leave lasting impact.Asking for help changes everythingDawn’s biggest turning point came when she stopped carrying everything alone.Many single parents hide their reality at workFear of judgment still shapes behaviour, especially for women in leadership roles.Flexible working unlocks talent, not excusesWhen people are trusted, they perform better — and stay longer.Resilience is built through lived experienceSome of the strongest leaders are shaped quietly, through necessity rather than...

    26 min
  7. How Can You Make Your Brand Stand Out On Trip Advisor?

    12/04/2025

    How Can You Make Your Brand Stand Out On Trip Advisor?

    Branding in hospitality isn’t a logo exercise — it’s the feeling people carry with them when they walk out the door. In this episode, Sachin Parmar and Sanj Naha from Graphic Kitchen join us to unpack what great branding really looks like in restaurants, hotels and bars. We explore everything from menu design and technology to TripAdvisor strategy, toilets (yes, really), and why consistency is the quiet power behind long-term success. You’ll hear how consumer expectations have shifted, why the “experience” starts long before a guest arrives, and how reviews influence footfall more than most operators realise. Sachin and Sanj share hard-won advice on building a brand with purpose, leveraging tech to get bums on seats, and using online reputation to drive revenue, team morale, and guest loyalty. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep guests coming back, or how to cut through the noise in a crowded market, this episode will give you the clarity — and the challenge — to rethink your brand from the foundations up. Takeaways: Branding isn’t just about flashy logos; it’s about creating a feeling that resonates with customers.To keep guests coming back, restaurants must focus on delivering a consistent experience that meets high expectations.Tripadvisor still plays a crucial role in restaurant visibility, influencing where customers choose to eat.Understanding your restaurant's brand means ensuring every aspect, from decor to service, aligns with your core values.The key to effective branding is creating memorable moments that resonate with guests and reflect your restaurant's personality.Investing in branding is essential; don’t skimp on the elements that will ensure long-term success and customer loyalty. Companies mentioned in this episode: Graphic KitchenGoustoHelloFreshTripAdvisorDrake and MorganTaj Mahal

    35 min
  8. What Does EDI Really Mean in Practice?

    11/04/2025

    What Does EDI Really Mean in Practice?

    In this episode of Talking Hospitality, Timothy R Andrews and Joe McDonnell are joined by Olajide Alabi, one of the UK’s most engaging voices in Equality, Diversity & Inclusion — and Co-Founder of SISU, the People Experience Agency. Olajide breaks down what EDI really means in practice: how inclusion starts with belonging and psychological safety, why focusing on diversity alone misses the point, and what real leadership looks like when it’s human-centred and curious. In this episode: Why inclusion and equity matter more than diversity targetsThe dangers of “tick-box” EDI approachesHow psychological safety transforms culture and performanceWhy representation at the top still matters — and how to get thereThe business benefits of empathy, curiosity, and storytelling Companies mentioned in this episode: TGI Fridays SISU Graphic Kitchen

    30 min
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About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Talking Hospitality
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    68
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © (c) Talking Hospitality Ltd
  • Show Website
    Talking Hospitality podcast