In this episode of the Hospitality Mavericks podcast, host Michael welcomes guest Natalie Dunning, who shares her journey of growing up in a hospitality family and building her agency, Kitch Social. They discuss the importance of creating super fans, engaging with communities, and the crucial role of maintaining a human connection in the hospitality industry. Natalie emphasizes the significance of clear purpose, strategy, and team alignment in fostering customer loyalty and a supportive work cul...
Apr 24, 2025•58 min•Ep. 297
In this episode, Michael reconnects with guest Josh Kopel, a former restaurateur turned industry consultant, five years after their initial conversation. They discuss the significant transformations Josh has experienced since 2020, including selling his restaurant group due to burnout and launching the 'Full Comp' podcast. Josh shares insights into his journey of learning the skill of translating knowledge into value and creating the 'Restaurant Scaling System.' The discussion dives deep into th...
Apr 10, 2025•1 hr 21 min•Ep. 296
In this episode, we dive deep into the future of work and performance marketing with Nick Miller, founder of Seed, a Brighton-based marketing agency. We explore the intersection between innovative work cultures and effective marketing strategies, discussing how Nick's journey and values have shaped Seed over the last decade. Discover insights into the Corporate Rebels' approach, the importance of authenticity in business, and Seed's vision for a sustainable and people-centered workplace. Nick al...
Mar 27, 2025•59 min•Ep. 295
In this insightful conversation, Alex, author of 'No Bullsh*t Strategy,' dives into his unique approach to developing and implementing business strategies. He shares his journey from working in a marketing agency to advising CEOs on creating impactful strategies that go beyond setting goals. Alex discusses the pitfalls of traditional strategy concepts, emphasizing the importance of genuine innovation and strategic sacrifices that align with the unique qualities of a business. The episode highlig...
Mar 13, 2025•1 hr 11 min•Ep. 294
In this episode, join Michael as he delves into an inspiring conversation with Celia Gaze, the founder of The Wellbeing Farm. Discover how Celia transformed a rundown farm into a thriving, sustainable venue while navigating personal and professional challenges. Learn about her journey from burnout in the NHS to becoming a hospitality entrepreneur, her commitment to sustainability, and the impact of becoming a B Corp certified business. Celia shares invaluable insights on leadership, trust, and r...
Feb 27, 2025•56 min•Ep. 293
In this episode, Michael sits down with Renée Elliot, founder of Planet Organic, to explore the journey of building a purpose-driven business. Renée reflects on her experiences, from meeting Michael at the Danish embassy to founding Planet Organic and its mission to promote health and sustainability through organic food. They discuss the challenges of maintaining values amidst economic pressures, the importance of self-care and personal development, and the role of meditation in leadership. René...
Feb 13, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 292
In this episode, Michael dives into the complexities of raising industry-specific investments with Lizzie from Imbiba. They discuss the qualities that attract investments, the current conditions for raising funds, and the importance of having a clear brand and a strong management team. Lizzie shares her journey from starting out as an actress to becoming a trust accountant and eventually joining Imbiba to focus on the leisure and hospitality sectors. The conversation covers the nuanced differenc...
Jan 30, 2025•46 min•Ep. 291
In this podcast episode, Michael engages with James Rutter, Chief Creative Officer at Cook, to delve into the essence of Cook's culture and business strategy. James shares the intriguing origin of Cook, which crafts handmade frozen meals inspired by traditional home cooking methods. The conversation highlights the company’s unique vertically integrated business model and its focus on maintaining high-quality food and ethical practices. James explains the critical role of relationships and cultur...
Jan 16, 2025•56 min•Ep. 290
In this insightful episode, hosts Phil and Michael discuss the power of conversations in driving change, especially within the hospitality industry. Despite busy schedules, they reflect on their journey of over 500 episodes featuring diverse hospitality leaders. They delve into the importance of relationship-building, the timeless essence of hospitality, and the impact of authentic leadership. The episode also explores unexpected learnings from interviews, emphasizing resilience, the journey of ...
Jan 10, 2025•2 hr 34 min•Ep. 290
In this episode, Michael and Ally Gordon reflect on the importance of consistency for personal development, leadership, and achieving long-term goals. They discuss their experiences and lessons learned from attending a workshop with Ryan Holiday in London, and emphasing how consistency can unlock potential. With examples from their own lives and careers, they offer practical advice on how to establish effective routines, manage the unpredictable nature of life, and remain consistent under pressu...
Jan 03, 2025•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 289
In this episode, Michael interviews Sarah and Michelle about their upcoming initiative, The Growth Collective, set to launch in early 2024. They discuss the mission to integrate coaching and mentoring as an essential part of leadership development in the hospitality and retail sectors. Emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, emotional regulation, and the value of group coaching, they aim to provide practical tools and a supportive community for aspiring leaders. The conversation also highl...
Dec 19, 2024•56 min•Ep. 288
In this episode, fourth-time guest Ari Weinzweig returns to share insights from his latest book on becoming a better leader. The discussion emphasizes the importance of beliefs in business, the craft of hospitality, and the concept of dignity. Ari delves into the six elements of servant leadership, the significance of vision, the necessity of active learning and teaching, ethical decision-making, and the practice of energy management. He also touches on Zingerman's unique ownership culture and o...
Dec 05, 2024•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 287
In this episode, Michael engages in a riveting conversation with restaurateur and TED Talk speaker Paulo De Tarso. Known for transforming spaces into iconic dining destinations, Paulo elucidates the essence of genuine hospitality, emphasizing the importance of human connection and empathy in creating unforgettable experiences. From his journey starting as a dishwasher in New York to opening successful ventures in London, Paulo shares invaluable lessons on building a hospitality-focused business ...
Nov 21, 2024•57 min•Ep. 286
In this episode, we join a conversation with Lauren, a visionary in the hospitality recruitment industry, recently back in the Brighton studio. Lauren discusses her journey from working ten years at Pizza Express to establishing her own successful recruitment business. She shares her unique insights on creating a great workplace, highlighting the challenges and solutions within the industry. Lauren outlines how her business supports small, independent hospitality operators by focusing on values ...
Nov 07, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 285
Join Michael and hospitality expert Chris Tripoli as they explore the captivating and ever-evolving world of hospitality. From Chris's journey from a busboy to a renowned consultant and educator, to essential strategies for excelling in the industry, this episode offers invaluable insights. Discussions cover the importance of customer satisfaction, maintaining the human touch in an increasingly tech-driven market, and the significance of a unique restaurant concept. Learn practical advice on ent...
Oct 24, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 284
In this episode, Philip, co-founder of Honest Burger, discusses his journey in the hospitality industry and shares insights on building successful businesses by prioritizing the human element. Transitioning from his role at Honest Burger, Philip delves into behavioral science, highlighting its influence on both customer service and workplace culture. He introduces Breadstall, a venture focused on simplicity, efficiency, and developing talent, while critiquing the automation trends in hospitality...
Oct 09, 2024•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 283
In this episode, Peter Farrell discusses his career in hospitality, the setbacks he faced due to health issues, and how he navigated these challenges to build a successful business. From his early passion for food and hospitality to overcoming brain tumors and personal losses, Peter shares his journey of resilience and reinvention. He highlights the importance of health, family, and staying focused on one’s values. He also talks about his current ventures, including Epsom Social Food Hall, and o...
Sep 26, 2024•58 min•Ep. 282
In this episode, Michael interviews Conor Sheridan, founder of Nory, about the transformative journey of leveraging tech to solve critical challenges in the hospitality industry. Conor shares insights from his entrepreneurial journey, moving from finance to running a fried chicken restaurant chain called Mad Egg, and eventually founding Nory, a tech solution aimed at improving operational consistency and profitability in hospitality businesses. The discussion dives deep into the importance of ha...
Sep 19, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 281
In this conversation, host Michael welcomes Sarah Clark, a seasoned hospitality leader turned leadership coach. Sarah shares her 30 years of experience in hospitality, starting as a young bar manager in Chelsea and rising to various directorial roles in well-known companies like Quinian Barrow and Pret A Manger. She eloquently discusses her career transformation, the importance of having coaches and mentors, and her deep belief that everyone has the potential to be extraordinary. Sarah's mission...
Sep 12, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 280
Join Michael as he welcomes back Jon, the CEO of Levy's UK and Ireland division, in a discussion that spans the impacts of the pandemic on the hospitality industry to the innovative strategies Levy employs to bounce back and thrive. Uncover how Levy, part of the world's largest contract caterer, Compass, has adapted to post-COVID challenges, redefined career opportunities, tackled sustainability, and forged strategic partnerships to enhance customer experiences. Learn about their ambitious net-z...
Sep 05, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 279
In this episode, the host engages with Kevin, the co-author of 'The Sustainable Business Book,' as they delve into the importance of sustainability in business. Kevin shares his journey from his multicultural upbringing to becoming a prolific author and consultant. The conversation explores Kevin's innovative PLANET system for creating sustainable business strategies, highlighting the importance of clear frameworks and actionable steps. The discussion also touches on the pervasive issues of over...
Aug 29, 2024•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 278
Join Michael and Ishwariya as they delve into the vital topic of feminine energy and leadership. Discover how Ishwariya transitioned from architecture to coaching female leaders in hospitality and architecture, emphasizing the need for sustainable career practices. They explore the persistent challenges in hospitality, from toxic work cultures to issues of confidence among women leaders. Learn how fostering both masculine and feminine energies can lead to healthier, more balanced work environmen...
Aug 22, 2024•56 min•Ep. 277
Join us as we delve into a compelling conversation with Eve, the founder of Well Grounded, a charity that creates local employment opportunities within the specialty coffee industry. Discover the challenges and triumphs of training over a thousand individuals, how Well Grounded is making a lasting impact on the lives of its graduates, and the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive culture in organizations. Learn about Eve's personal journey, the organization's ambitious future goals, ...
Aug 15, 2024•53 min•Ep. 276
This episode features an in-depth discussion with Adi, co-founder of Growyze, a company dedicated to helping hospitality businesses streamline their operations through innovative technology. Adi shares their journey, from initial experiences in hospitality to the creation of Growyze alongside her sister Kati. We delve into the key challenges faced by hospitality businesses, such as stock taking, loss prevention, and process optimization, and how Growyze is addressing these with customer-centric ...
Aug 08, 2024•59 min•Ep. 275
Michael welcomes Erik Bruun Bindslev to discuss the imperative transformation of food systems for a sustainable future. The conversation delves into Erik’s personal journey from global commodity shipping to pioneering organic and regenerative food practices. Highlighting the extensive impact of industrial farming on biodiversity and climate, Erik emphasizes the crucial role of finance in enabling large-scale agricultural change. The discussion expands to practical steps for individuals and busin...
Aug 01, 2024•55 min•Ep. 274
In this episode, Michael Tingsager interviews Julio Bruno, a global CEO, board director, investor, and author of 'Passion to Lead.' Julio shares his journey to becoming a leader in business and hospitality, his current projects, and the purpose that drives him. The conversation explores the principles from his book, navigating leadership in a post-COVID world, the importance of passion and detail in leadership, and balancing personal growth with business success. Julio also discusses his experie...
Jul 25, 2024•1 hr•Ep. 273
Michael Tingsager hosts Jack Lander, co-founder and MD of Pizzarova, to discuss what Maverick leaders do to build successful businesses that positively impact society and the environment. Jack shares Pizzarova's journey from a mobile pizza oven to a four-unit establishment, emphasizing the importance of building a strong culture and giving employees autonomy. They delve into people practices, the significance of having a purpose, and creating a sustainable and supportive environment. Jack also h...
Jul 18, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 272
In this insightful episode, the host interviews Jason E. Brooks, an experienced restaurant coach and author of 'Every Leader Needs Followers: 10 Keys to Transform Restaurant Managers to Hospitality Leaders.' Jason shares his journey in the hospitality industry and detailed insights from his book which emphasizes transitioning from manager to leader and then to coach. Key discussions include mastering KPIs, owner-like orientation, creating mini GMs, and the continual importance of personal develo...
Jul 11, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 271
Michael Tingsager is joined by Madeleine Geach, a renowned hospitality leadership coach. They discuss the critical disciplines of culture and leadership essential for retaining staff and creating celebrated organizations in the hospitality industry. The episode delves into how businesses can build and maintain positive work cultures by focusing on quality management, strong values, and effective training. Madeleine shares insights from her journey in hospitality, offering practical tips on embed...
Jul 04, 2024•1 hr•Ep. 270
In this episode, we delve into the journey of Obadiah Ostergard, CEO of Vine Hospitality, discussing the importance of a people-first approach in building a successful hospitality business. Obadiah shares his personal journey from working in a kitchen to his current role, emphasizing the significance of nurturing relationships and professional growth within his team. The conversation highlights the rich legacy of Vine Hospitality, its mission of serving with love, and the strategies implemented ...
Jun 27, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 269
