In this episode of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast, we sit down with Dale Triffitt , founder of Groberri , leadership trainer, HR consultant and former HR lead at Mercure and Ibis in Paignton. Dale shares how better workplaces lead to better service, and how hospitality leaders in Torbay can build confident, resilient teams even in the face of seasonal pressure. We discuss: The reality of HR and leadership in a seasonal resort town Why recruitment and retention require different approaches How to...
Jul 01, 2025•54 min•Season 5Ep. 17
In this episode, we sit down with Steve Garratt, the driving force behind Arena Torquay. This striking new 1200-capacity venue is set to reshape the events and nightlife landscape in South Devon. From cutting-edge production tech to ambitious programming, Arena is more than just a venue. It is a bold investment in Torquay's future. Steve talks candidly about what brought him to the Bay, the highs and lows of launching a major venue, and what it takes to build a space that serves both the local c...
Jun 16, 2025•31 min•Season 5Ep. 16
In this episode of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast, we sit down with Robin Barker, the head of the South West Tourism Awards, to explore how awards are shaping the future of tourism in the region. Robin shares the broader purpose behind the awards and how they support innovation, encourage resilience, and help raise standards across the sector. From tackling favouritism to prioritising sustainability, this conversation looks at what it really takes to deliver meaningful recognition in a constantl...
Apr 17, 2025•40 min•Season 5Ep. 16
In this episode of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Jess Watkins, Director at TSTATS Solutions. Jess shares her expertise and insights into the future of tourism and hospitality in the Southwest. As the driving force behind the Southwest Visitor Economy Hub, Jess discusses how this innovative platform is empowering local businesses, fostering collaboration, and enhancing the region's appeal as a top visitor destination. Tune in to learn more about how the Hub is revoluti...
Dec 27, 2024•12 min•Season 5Ep. 15
In this episode of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast , we’re delighted to welcome Annette Hunt, Director of the celebrated Hunts Cider. With a legacy dating back to 1805, Hunts Cider is a true Devon gem, blending tradition and innovation to craft award-winning ciders that capture the spirit of the region. Annette shares the fascinating history of this family-run business, her journey in leading the brand, and how Hunts Cider is championing sustainability and community partnerships. From the orchard...
Dec 23, 2024•11 min•Season 5Ep. 13
Welcome to our festive Christmas special! Kelly and Lyn are decked out in holiday style, poppin' bottles, and ready to celebrate the season. We kick things off with recognition of Pier Point’s awards ambitions, Jason and Emily at the Mercure for hosting a Wicked-themed afternoon tea, and a hello to Brendon Prince from SUPHub. Stay tuned for upcoming interviews with Annette Hunt from Hunts Cider and Jess Watkins from T-STATS Solutions, who’ll share insights on the Southwest Visitor Economy Hub. G...
Dec 02, 2024•44 min
Join Kelly and Lyn as they give you the rundown on autumn events, family favourites, and killer parties happening on the English Riviera this spooky season. And a huge congratulations to all the winners and nominees this awards season. Visit the Southwest Visitor Economy Hub to benchmark your business performance against others in your area and your sector! Here's the link: https://swvehub.co.uk/ Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Sponsored by Konsileo Insurance - your broker i...
Oct 25, 2024•22 min•Season 5Ep. 10
This week on the Torbay Hospitality Podcast, we’re bringing you an exclusive sneak peek of the Riviera Connect expo and conference, happening on October 17th at the Riviera Centre. We chat with Kelly Widley, the driving force behind this exciting event, and give you all the inside details on the world-class speakers and activities planned. Plus, we cover a range of shoutouts, upcoming local events, seasonal trends, and job opportunities around Torbay! Key Takeaways: Riviera Connect Overview: A b...
Oct 03, 2024•39 min•Season 5Ep. 10
Join Kelly, Lyn and special guest Chloe Pavely as we explore all the incredible offers for this years Seafood Feast! To book your culinary adventure, visit www.theseafoodfeast.co.uk For more information on SUPHub, visit www.torbayhospitality.co.uk/sup-hub To catch Chloe's new radio show, tune in Thursday afternoons on radio or visit www.riviera.fm to listen online. To learn more about the Riviera Connect Expo, visit www.riviera-connect.co.uk To learn more about Nick Pearce and his Supper Club, v...
Sep 27, 2024•38 min•Season 5Ep. 9
This special episode features an interview from 13 August on Riviera FM by our host from Torbay Communities, David Gledhill. David sits down with Sean White, the founder of Soak Lifestyle at Torre Abbey Sands. During this conversation, Sean highlights the upcoming event, the Great Big Paddle Parade, which is set to take place on the 31st of August. They discuss the impact such events have on promoting local tourism and fostering community engagement with the sport of paddleboarding. The Great Bi...
Aug 29, 2024•32 min
Kelly and Lyn take a deep dive into all the special events and live music gigs across the Bay this Bank Holiday Weekend. It's awards season, and we congratulate all the winners and shortlisted suppliers and hard-working hospitality businesses in the Food Drink Devon and Taste of the West awards series. We also take a look at our guest list this season, looking forward to interviews with Rehan from Indi-Yang and Rob from Best Bar None. Have a great weekend everyone!
Aug 25, 2024•22 min•Season 5Ep. 7
In this week's episode of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast, we welcome international street artist and local heroes, Szabotage. Tune in to hear about his unexpected start in the art world, his adventures in Hong Kong, and how you can commission your very own work of art from his new studio in Cockington! Visit the website: https://szabotage.com.hk/ We also share some exciting news—our podcast is now a Community Interest Company! Discover what this means for our local hospitality scene and meet our...
Aug 09, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Season 5Ep. 6
This week, Kelly and Lyn are back with exciting news, upcoming events, and the latest trends in cocktails and food. We also have a special segment on training your team led by Andy Banner-Price, and an exclusive interview with DJ Luna V as she kicks off her Friday evening residency at the Mercure in Paignton. Gaia Coffee Garden Launch, which marks the opening of a new garden space on Winner St. in Paignton, taking place on Friday, 2 August, from 10 AM to 2 PM. The Sofa Sessions at Cantina will s...
Aug 02, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 5Ep. 5
This week we are delighted to have Lorraine Arnold, the owner of Pier Point, as our guest. Lorraine will share what sets Pier Point apart from other hospitality businesses in the Bay, from winning awards to community involvement and rewarding her team. Pier Point is always at the heart of community activities. Upcoming Events • Interview with DJ Luna V: This Friday at the Mercure. Stop by to learn more about her story, mixes, and upcoming gigs. • Vinyl Avengers at The Osborne Hotel: Residency ev...
Jul 26, 2024•59 min•Season 5Ep. 4
Live from Olive in Brixham! England's Seafood Feast returns 27th September - 13th October 2024 to play host to a feast for all the senses. You will be able to immerse yourself some of the best seafood in the world. This isn't a conventional festival with a big marquee - instead, you can enjoy a whole range of locally landed and caught fish and seafood at over 30 eateries across Brixham, Paignton and Torquay. Our guests: Kelly Widley and Liam Coslett, Group Head of Marketing, Events and Guest Rel...
Jul 19, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 5Ep. 3
In this week's episode, we kick off our series of best practice advice with Andy Banner-Price, owner of The 25 Boutique B & B and hospitality and customer experience consultancy, Neon Duck. Andy dives into customer experience, improving reviews, acting on feedback, and handling complaints. This episode focuses on addressing complaints and nipping them in the bud. New Format & Focus This season, we're launching video podcasting, and focusing on innovation, trends, and events. Upcoming Eve...
Jul 13, 2024•1 hr•Season 5Ep. 2
It's the premiere of Season 5 of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast! This season, we’re focusing on innovation, trends, and upcoming events in the hospitality sector, featuring practical advice from industry experts. James Hull, GM of Kents Cavern, dives deep into the fascinating history and unique aspects of Britain’s oldest known prehistoric home. Key discussions include: Introduction to Kents Cavern: What makes it a gem of the English Riviera. Personal Journey: How James became the GM of this inc...
Jul 11, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Season 5Ep. 1
Interview In our interview segment, Demi Keenan and Siani Schofield from Dekesas Interior Design concludes Season 4 with an engaging discussion on the importance of design in hospitality spaces. Their insights and expertise provide valuable takeaways for anyone interested in refurbishing their establishment. Visit Dekesas at https://dekesasdesign.co.uk/ News Thank you for joining us this season on the Torbay Hospitality Podcast! We’re gearing up for Season 5 and want your suggestions. What shoul...
Jun 14, 2024•47 min•Season 4Ep. 20
In this episode of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast , we sit down with Amanda and Dan Donnai, co-owners of The Chesterfield on Belgrave Road. They share their fascinating journey of acquiring and transforming The Chesterfield into a leading guesthouse in Torbay... and how they are helping to transform the social media landscape in our community! Amanda and Dan delve into their initial challenges, creative ventures, and the vibrant community spirit that has driven their success. They recount memora...
May 24, 2024•48 min•Season 4Ep. 19
Today we're diving deep into the heart of Torquay Harbour's most anticipated annual event, the Offshore and Bays Fest! In this episode, we feature exclusive interviews with four standout performers and key figures: Peter Thorpe, head of RNLI fundraisers, Josh Bidder, the lead singer of Harbour, Jessy Plum, the lead singer and musician from New Daze and Yonder Folk, and Brett Morton, the owner of Offshore Bar and Restaurant and host of Bays Fest. Guest Speakers: Peter Thorpe, Chair of Torbay RNLI...
May 17, 2024•15 min
Welcome to another episode of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast! This week, we're excited to bring you our special episode recorded live from the English Riviera Attractions Showcase at Occombe Farm. Join us as we explore the heart of South Devon's tourism and hospitality scene through a series of engaging interviews with key figures in the community. News Update: Kelly Widley shares the news from Cantina and The Offshore! Don't forget Bays Fest on Sunday. SUP Update: Brendon Prince shares the late...
May 09, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Season 4Ep. 17
In this must-listen episode, we're bringing you a Bank Holiday special packed with exclusive content and interviews that are sure to kick your long weekend off right. Join us as we sit down with the new owner of the iconic boathouse, take a dip into the exciting launch of the New Wave Club, and set sail with Lisa and Gary from Above Decks Charters. Plus, we've got all the hospitality news you'll need to make the most out of your Bank Holiday weekend! Boathouse Exclusive : We snag an exclusive in...
May 02, 2024•1 hr 46 min
Welcome to this week’s episode of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast, where we have all the news you need to stay ahead in Torbay's thriving hospitality sector. In this exciting episode, we sit down with Graham Kerr, Director of the English Riviera Walking Festival. He shares captivating stories and adventures from around the Bay, bringing to life characters like Basil Fawlty and Miss Marple. Our co-host, Kelly Widley, joins us to cover all the latest news and shoutouts. Don’t miss our exclusive upd...
Apr 26, 2024•1 hr 48 min•Season 4Ep. 15
Welcome to another exciting episode of the Torbay Hospitality podcast, your go-to source for all things hospitality in Torbay! We're bringing you the latest news from hotels, restaurants, attractions, and events, plus a special interview with Mitch Tonks, Owner of Rockfish and The Seahorse in Dartmouth, and MSC Ambassador. Before we jump into our exclusive content, remember to subscribe to stay up to date on all things hospitality! Interview with seafood restaurateur and sustainability advocate,...
Apr 18, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Season 4Ep. 14
Welcome to another episode of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast where we bring you the latest on what's happening in the hotel, restaurant, and event scene in Torbay. Tune in for updates, interviews, and insider secrets that you don't want to miss! This week we sat down with Rob Cox, Amanda Dew, and Jackie Kelly from Tudor Hotels Collection and The Redcliffe Hotel. We dived into the hotel’s recent refurbishments and discovered some secret tidbits about this iconic establishment. Plus, listen for de...
Apr 11, 2024•53 min•Season 4Ep. 13
Welcome to another episode of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast where we bring you the latest scoop from the buzzing hospitality scene in Torbay. From hotel offers to live music listings, we're covering all the bases for your perfect weekend plans. Plus, this week features some notable industry news that you can't miss! Guest Newsreader : We are joined by Dean Sanders, with over 35 years in the hospitality sector, he currently volunteers and manages properties, including our brand-new media studio ...
Apr 04, 2024•58 min•Season 4Ep. 12
Welcome to this week's episode of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast, your go-to source for all the latest news from the hospitality sector in and around Torbay. From Easter events to a great live music calendar, we've got your weekend sorted with exciting updates, new features, and of course, the best tips for enjoying Torbay's hospitality scene. Jimmy Armstrong, GM, and George Keers, Head Chef, share their updates from The Old Market House and their outlook for Summer 2024. Sereny Damon talks Dart...
Mar 28, 2024•1 hr 24 min•Season 4Ep. 11
Welcome to this week's edition of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast, where we bring you the latest from hotels, restaurants, attractions, and events in Torbay, along with exclusive job listings. This week, we feature interviews with Lydia Wolfenden and Russell Goodman from the Waddling Duck at Hamilton's in Babbacombe, as well as 9-time SUP world record holder, Brendon Prince, discussing the launch of the SUP HUB initiative. Episode Highlights: Easter offers and new spring menus across our beloved ...
Mar 21, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Season 4Ep. 10
Welcome to the latest episode of the Torbay Hospitality podcast! This episode is a treasure trove of the most recent news and developments in the world of hospitality in Torbay, focusing on hotels, restaurants, bars, attractions, and events. Whether you’re a local business owner, a resident, or planning your next visit, this episode is packed with insights that you won't want to miss. Sponsor spotlight: Churchill Private Finance They offer a game-changing financial lifeline for those in the hosp...
Mar 14, 2024•46 min
Welcome to another episode of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast , your definitive guide to everything hospitality in Torbay. Whether you’re a foodie, an adventure seeker, or simply in love with our beautiful region, this episode packs a punch with all the updates and gossip you need to know! In This Episode: Hospitality Highlights : Find out what’s buzzing in Torbay’s hospitality scene, from the newest eatery openings to not-to-miss events and attractions that are making waves - from Kelly Widley a...
Mar 07, 2024•55 min•Season 4Ep. 8
