Episodes

In this lively and insightful episode of "Hospitality Meets," I welcomed the ever-engaging Conor O'Leary, the Managing Director at the iconic Gleneagles Hotel. Buckle up for a mix of humour, wild anecdotes, and invaluable career lessons as Conor takes us on his remarkable journey through the world of hospitality! Highlights from the Episode: From Tokyo Dreams to Dubai Realities: Conor shares his career trajectory, initially planning a move to Tokyo but ultimately finding himself in the bustlin...

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of "Hospitality Meets," we join Phil as he walks alongside the legendary Charlie Hodson, an unwavering advocate for mental health in the hospitality industry. Together, they embark on a meaningful walk for well-being in support of Hospitality Action, an organization that played a pivotal role in saving Charlie's life. Key Points: Introduction and Setting: Phil shares his excitement about taking this unique episode format on the road, literally, with his ...

Today, we have a remarkable guest joining us — Claire Llewellin-Davis, the dynamic Managing Director of The Lensbury. Claire's journey is a fascinating tale of resilience, adaptability, and bold career moves. ✨ In This Episode: Adventures in Language and Lands From studying languages in France and Germany to teaching in Japan, Claire's story kicks off with vibrant globe-trotting adventures that would make even Carmen Sandiego jealous. Military Makeover Learn how Claire transitioned to military...

Episode Overview: This week I was lucky enough to grab some time with for an entertaining and insightful conversation with the eminently engaging Imran Hussain, the innovative Chief Marketing Officer of Chateau Denmark (https://www.chateaudenmark.com). This episode of “Hospitality Meets” sheds light on the quirky, unpredictable, and exciting world of hospitality, capped with laughter and memorable anecdotes. Episode Highlights: Behind-the-Scenes Comedy : Imran shares a hilarious story of his ...

Join us for a laughter-packed and enlightening episode I dive into the captivating world of Trudi Parr, Head of People at Mollie's (https://mollies.com). Trudi takes us on a rollercoaster ride through the hysterical, the surreal, and the downright cool moments that define her journey in the hospitality industry. 🎤 In This Episode: High-Profile Shenanigans: Trudi spills the beans on the unique perks and backstage drama of working at iconic events like Radio 1's Big Weekend and Glastonbury. From ...

In the latest episode, Phil brings you an engaging and humour-infused conversation with Andrew Evers, the charismatic Group Director of IT for Rocco Forte Hotels. Grab your popcorn and settle in for an entertaining journey through technology mishaps, personal growth, and the evolving role of IT in hospitality. Key Highlights: 1. Telephone Tales: Andrew welcomes Phil to the iconic Alexander Graham Bell suite at Brown's Hotel in London. Did you know this suite is named after the first telephone c...

😂 Episode Summary: Have you ever wondered how you can meet Kiefer Sutherland, dodge recruitment woes, and still run one of the world's most historic hotels? Well, grab your aprons and notepads because Franck Arnold, MD of The Savoy, spills the beans (and maybe some champagne!) in this rib-tickling yet insight-packed episode. Spoiler alert: It's not all afternoon tea and cucumber sandwiches (Shame) 🍸 🗣️ Key Takeaways: Four-Day Fantasy or Reality? - Ever dreamed of a four-day work week? Franck r...

Today we have the pleasure of speaking with Simon Numphud, the dynamic Managing Director of AA Media. Join us as we delve into Simon's fascinating journey through the hospitality industry, from his humble beginnings in catering college to becoming a leading figure in the industry. In this episode, Simon shares candid anecdotes about the less glamorous side of constant travel and dining, the rigours of maintaining fitness, and the humorous misconceptions his children have about his job. We discu...

Welcome back to Hospitality Meets where today we have a special treat as we sit down with none other than James Brown (no, not the legendary blues singer - Highly original and never been used before joke) the dynamic CEO of Brewdog's bar division as well as being the co-founder of Tipjar. Join us as James takes us through his remarkable journey, from his humble beginnings at a chip shop in rural Scotland to leading Brewdog’s international bar operations. We'll dive into the fun and innovative cu...

Today, on Hospitality Meets, we dive deep into the fascinating career journey of Phil Murphy, the Managing Director at Hoar Cross Hall Hotel & Spa. Starting his career in leisure and fitness, and facing numerous challenges, including personal tragedy and the unforeseen impact of Covid-19, Phil demonstrates the resilience and dedication required to thrive in the hospitality industry. From restructuring a large spa facility to overseeing a landmark hotel, Phil shares valuable insights into leader...

We've got time for a cheeky bonus episode this week so today, we have a very special guest joining us - Tim Andrews. Tim is currently a talent manager at Jumeirah Hotels and also the founder of the podcast "Talking Hospitality." With his extensive experience in the industry, spanning from his early days working in a bar in Soho to his current roles, Tim brings a wealth of insights to share. In this episode, we'll be diving into Tim's fascinating journey in hospitality. We'll explore how his div...

On this weeks Hospitality Meets I was able to get some time with one of my food heroes, Galton Blackiston, Chef Patron of the quite wonderful Morston Hall. He shares his fascinating journey and insights from and amazing career in the hospitality industry so far. Galton takes us through his early days, starting as a kitchen trainee in the Lake District without any formal culinary education. He reminisces about the tough yet rewarding experience that ultimately led him to become a head chef after...

In this weeks Hospitality Meets, we have a very special guest - Sally Abé, renowned chef and author who has recently released her memoir - A woman's place is in the kitchen. Throughout her career, Sally has worked at some of the most prestigious restaurants in the UK, including the Savoy, Gordon Ramsay at Claridge's, and the Ledbury. She's here to share her journey, from working as a waitress in golf clubs and bars to becoming a junior sous chef and eventually the head chef at the Harwood Arms...

Another week passes and another superb story for you. Today, we're diving deep into the whirlwind journey of Bharti Radix, the dynamic Founder of Bloomsyard, a café wine bar concept born during the Covid pandemic. Bharti joins me to share her experiences rapidly expanding her business, the challenges of opening new sites, and the hurdles of building and managing a head office team. Bharti's story is one of resilience and ambition—opening multiple locations, facing recruitment struggles, and que...

Welcome back to another exciting episode of Hospitality Meets, the podcast where we delve into the inspiring journeys of the industry's most dedicated professionals. Today, I sit down with Guillaume Marly, Managing Director at Hotel Café Royal. Guillaume's remarkable career in hospitality, influenced by early aspirations in the military and an unwavering commitment to excellent service, has led to transformative successes in some of London's most prestigious hotels. In this episode, Guillaume s...

Sometimes the guest chooses you and they don't even know it. I'd been a fan of the work that today's guest had been doing for quite some time so I was beyond thrilled when she said a big Essex yes to coming on the show. I'm joined by the dynamic and Epic Shereen Ritchie, CEO of Buns from Home. Shereen shares her incredible journey in the hospitality industry, emphasising the importance of authenticity, embracing one's uniqueness, and the value of entry-level roles in nurturing future leaders. ...

For this week's chat, I tootled off to the Edge hotel School at the University of Essex to meet comedy genius (And Deputy Head) Adrian Martin. Adrian brings a wealth of experience from both the hospitality industry and academia, making for a fascinating conversation. And Adrian is engaging from the get go as we delve into his unexpected journey into hospitality, which began with a nudge from his grandmother and led him to a successful career in hotel management before transitioning to academia....

Today's special episode features an engaging conversation with the quite wonderful Jason E. Brooks, a seasoned expert in the restaurant industry and the author of the transformative book "Every Leader Needs Followers." Phil, delves into Jason's innovative strategies for integrating new hires, his methodology for effective leadership, and the crucial shift from managing to leading a team. Jason sheds light on his book’s five keys, encapsulated in the acronym MODEL, and further expands on the impo...

Welcome to another episode of "Hospitality Meets," where this week we delve into the vibrant world of the hospitality and night time economy. Phil is joined by none other than Michael Kill, the dynamic Chief Executive of the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA). Michael shares an array of fascinating stories—from being pranked early in his career at Fifth Avenue to orchestrating his own elaborate pranks as promotional stunts. Listen as Phil and Michael explore how such experiences build res...

This week on Hospitality Meets, we had the incredible privilege to sit down with Natasha Robinson, a torchbearer for a storied legacy in the restaurant industry. Natasha’s deep-rooted connection to hospitality comes from a lineage spanning generations, with her parents standing out as boundary-pushing restaurateurs. From her upbringing amidst the bustling energy of family restaurants to her contemporary role guiding young talents, Natasha’s journey is awe-inspiring! We cover January Changing ...

What happens when you merge tech, hospitality and proprietary AI? The answer may well be the future of hospitality in the form of short stay power brand Bob W, headed up by todays guest, the awesome Niko Karstikko. Niko and Phil dive deep into the world of innovation in the hospitality industry, featuring an engaging conversation around the continued development of Bob W, a revolutionary hybrid accommodation brand. In this episode, you'll hear all about Niko's journey from an Air BnB Super host ...

Almost 2 years ago to the day, I was lucky enough to get the industry legend that is Danny Pecorelli on the show to tell his story. Within that story we got talking about a very special event that was about to happen called Back to the Floor and he kindly invited me to join his table. What unfolded at that event was what undoubtedly makes Back to the Floor one of the most celebrated events on the hospitality calendar. Fun and Carnage in equal measure, all whilst raising some much needed funds f...

Today marks the end of season 5 of the show and we are signing off with a bang. I welcomed Hamish Anderson to the show, CEO of Tate Enterprises. This episode was a totally joyous education from the outset and represents another wonderful corner of the industry, where art and hospitality collide, in glorious fashion (Have I just inadvertently written a tagline for next years fashion week?). Hamish is brilliant, he oozes effortless passion for hospitality all the way through and with some crackin...

Another treat for you this week as I got some time with the wonderful Zoe Watts, Managing Director of Bennett Hay Zoe's rise to MD has seen her take in some quite amazing places to work. In addition to her journey we also get through:- Exploring being a nurse The BHS Coffee Shop Off to Uni Beefeater Restaurants Savill garden Restaurant Becoming a GM The people who see something in you The Royal Society of Arts Tate Events The Adaptability of Hospitality Meetings with Royalty The mov...