With over 12 years of experience in hospitality, Ella Ogden brings a deep-rooted passion for the industry that began at a young age. Growing up in a family where hospitality was always a topic of conversation, Ella started her career as a dishie at The Windsor and worked her way up to other various roles. Ella's journey took her beyond Perth after completing her studies at WAAPA, leading to dynamic careers in both the hospitality and film industries. She simultaneously managed roles in venues ac...
Jan 09, 2025•41 min•Ep 35•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, we chat with Bradley Woods, CEO of the Australian Hotels Association in WA (AHA(WA)) and one of Australia’s leading political advocates for the hotel, tourism, and hospitality industries. As Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of AHA(WA), Bradley is responsible for steering WA’s tourism and hospitality sectors through a range of complex challenges. With nearly 30 years in the field, he’s dedicated to shaping public policy, providing advocacy, and offering training and...
Nov 08, 2024•44 min•Ep 34•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, we sit down with John McAndrew, also known as "John from Insurance." John is the Bar Manager and Owner of Frisk Small Bar, Perth's neighbourhood gin bar, a passionate mental health advocate, occasional marriage celebrant, proud Frenchie owner to Bouli, and a sober bartender. He shares his top three life tips: “Get a PT, a therapist, and a dog.” Tune in on Spotify and Apple Podcasts now!
Oct 25, 2024•47 min•Ep 33•Transcript available on Metacast Shirley Yeung is the Group Operations Manager for Foxtrot Hospitality (Foxtrot Unicorn, Edward & Ida's and Nieuw Ruin) and the co-founder of Mix Haus, a non-for-profit organisation for women in hospitality. She has over 10 years experience in the industry, with her expertise behind the bar and has become one of Australia's best bartenders. She is a loud voice advocating for women in hospitality as well as supporting the growth of hospitality as a profession. She runs some of the best bars in...
Sep 11, 2024•49 min•Ep 32•Transcript available on Metacast The Hospitality Disability Network WA (HDN) is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting people living with disabilities in securing sustainable careers within the hospitality and tourism industries. Since 2016, HDN has successfully placed over 250 individuals into meaningful employment across Western Australia, partnering with more than 170 businesses that are committed to fostering inclusive workplaces. HDN provides tailored employment solutions that highlight the benefits of inclu...
Aug 30, 2024•44 min•Ep 31•Transcript available on Metacast In this conversation, we'll be chatting with Tania Lambson, a craft beer ambassador for Lion. Tania shares her love for beer with the world while also being a dedicated mum of three. Before joining Lion, she and her husband owned and operated their own beer-centric venue, bringing their unique vision to life. Her journey includes a rich career in corporate events and diplomatic special events. Tania is passionate about embracing uniqueness and diversity in the beer world and beyond. When ask...
Jul 29, 2024•51 min•Ep 30•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, we bring you some voices from guests and exhibitors at the AHA Hospitality Expo held at the end of June at Crown. Each year, the AHA supports Healthy Mind Menu by providing a booth to ensure mental health is well represented in the industry. We enjoyed reconnecting with old friends and meeting new ones. Thank you for stopping by, getting curious, and asking the important question: What is healthy hospitality?
Jul 04, 2024•14 min•Ep 29•Transcript available on Metacast In this conversation we chat with Peter Peck, the CEO of The Liquor Stores Association of Western Australia. Peter is at the helm of LSAWA, a not-for-profit peak body representing the interests of all independent licensed liquor stores across Western Australia. Under his leadership, LSAWA advocates for the dominant sector of the liquor trade in the region, with more than 65% of package liquor retail sales made through these stores. Peter's extensive experience and deep understanding of the i...
Jun 06, 2024•34 min•Ep 28•Transcript available on Metacast Meet Elyse Phelps, Founder and Managing Director of MESH Education. With 14 years as a registered paramedic and 6 years as an educator, Elle delivers tailored training solutions and vocational competencies to businesses across Western Australia. Her expertise spans state ambulance services, industrial paramedicine, and emergency response, making her a leader in education and emergency medical services.
May 24, 2024•40 min•Ep 29•Transcript available on Metacast In this conversation we chat with Will Parkes, the driving force behind Fornever Coffee in West Perth. Will's journey in hospitality began at 18, but it was in his mid-20s that decided to open his first cafe in subiaco to make some extra cash whilst studying at uni full-time. Despite lacking experience, Will jumped in the deep as a solo business owner. With unwavering determination and the guidance of a seasoned barista, he brought his vision to life. Now, after relocating due to redevelopme...
May 09, 2024•24 min•Ep 26•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, we explore Michael Payne's journey as the founder of Lightning Minds. His decision to quit alcohol in July 2020 led to the creation of Lightning Minds, driven by a mission to promote a 'positive balance' in alcohol consumption. Inspired by personal transformation, Michael aims to share this positivity with others through his venture, utilizing Non-Alcoholic beer options to maintain social connections without alcohol.
Apr 10, 2024•35 min•Ep 25•Transcript available on Metacast In this conversation, we'll chat with Kabir Ramasary, the Group Director of the venues The William Street Bird, Ezra Pound and North Bird. Kabir is a versatile professional having ventured from IT and financial planning into hospitality where he now owns three thriving businesses. With his loyal companion Winston by his side, Kabir balances his entrepreneurial endeavours with a passion for fitness and a commitment to mental health advocacy. Having worked in various roles within the hospitali...
Mar 27, 2024•38 min•Ep 24•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, we are delighted to feature Jerry Fraser, also known as "The Oysterman," who runs a freelance oyster bar business. With forty years of hospitality experience across five continents, Jerry specialises in catering to international and interstate events, along with various venues and restaurants in WA. Presently, he lends his expertise to eight different venues, demonstrating his commitment to delivering exceptional oyster experiences.
Mar 12, 2024•49 min•Ep 23•Transcript available on Metacast Perth-born Amanda Yong has over a decade of experience working in 5-star hotels, and some of Perth’s best restaurants (Wildflower & Rockpool) and has owned her own café and her own brand Tartes by Amanda. She currently teaches full-time at Empyrean Education Institute where she trains new people coming into the industry. Amanda discovered her culinary passion throughout her younger years growing up in Singapore. Not always interested in academics, Amanda excelled at the At-Sunrice Global Che...
Feb 28, 2024•39 min•Ep 22•Transcript available on Metacast Jamie has been working in hospitality since he was 14 where his passion for the industry was sparked during a work experience placement at a well known Perth brewery. He's worked in some of Perth's best coffee venues and is passionate about the local specialty coffee scene and providing good customer service. He has a love for people and creating community, and after immersing himself in the Perth coffee scene over the last 10 year he decided it was time to do his own thing, and started Obi coff...
Feb 14, 2024•37 min•Ep 21•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Bridget Le Grove, a seasoned hospitality professional with over three decades of experience. Bridget, currently serving as the venue manager at Island Market Trigg, has successfully owned and operated two coastal venues in Perth. Her remarkable journey in the hospitality industry began as a waitress at Subi Hotel, where she gradually rose to a supervisor role before making her mark at the Rydges Hotel on Hay Street in Perth City.
Nov 15, 2023•47 min•Ep 20•Transcript available on Metacast Anna Edie is the General Manager of InterContinental Perth City Centre. She was previously General Manager at Crowne Plaza Queenstown in New Zealand and Executive Assistant Manager at Australia’s iconic Intercontinental Sydney Double Bay. Anna’s extensive hotel career has also seen her overseeing rooms division and food and beverage operations for new and established IHG hotels, including Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, pre-opening at Holiday Inn Gwangju in Korea, Crowne Plaza Darwi...
Nov 01, 2023•52 min•Ep 19•Transcript available on Metacast In this conversation, we talk with Ryan Michael, a burgeoning artist with roots in the hospitality industry. Starting as a cook and eventually earning a degree in Hospitality Management, he then spent a decade-long career in banking which left him feeling a void of passion and purpose. In a pivotal moment, Ryan left his corporate job to pursue a degree in the Arts. Ryan recently painted a compelling artwork featuring Anthony Bourdain, posing the poignant question, "Are you okay?" This ...
Oct 17, 2023•40 min•Ep 18•Transcript available on Metacast Meet Ben Fossilo, the vibrant and energetic force behind La Cabaña and the latest hotspot, Wild In the Street. Many know him from Perth's beloved food truck, EAT NO EVIL, which he started 10 years ago. Ben's journey took him from Denmark, WA to Montenegro, with a passionate love affair with Mexican cuisine along the way. Ben is a leader, championing mental health and wellbeing for the South Fremantle community, supporting both small businesses and local hospitality venues. Join us as Ben...
Oct 03, 2023•39 min•Ep 17•Transcript available on Metacast Meet Jono Outred, a small-scale farmer and freelance writer for the food & beverage industry. Jono spent a decade working as a chef, operating at various levels and capacities. Throughout his career, he encountered numerous remarkable experiences as well as formidable challenges. There were times when he grappled with mental health issues, but these trials also served as invaluable learning experiences. Beyond the mere act of cooking, Jono developed a profound appreciation and love for food ...
Sep 20, 2023•35 min•Ep 16•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome to our latest podcast episode, where we have the privilege of speaking with Lorraine Keane, the CEO of Holyoake, and Steve Papadopolous, the Prevention Services Manager. For nearly half a century, Holyoake has been a steadfast pillar in the realm of alcohol and drug services, illuminating paths toward personal transformation and community empowerment. Today, we're delving into a topic that resonates with many: alcohol and other drugs. With over 70% of the population partaking in alco...
Sep 06, 2023•45 min•Ep 15•Transcript available on Metacast Introducing Lachie Sheridan, the creative force behind the viral social media account3 "Perth Dude Food." With an impressive 15-year background as a chef, Lachie's culinary journey has been nothing short of remarkable. After transitioning away from full-time restaurant work around 2013, Lachie ventured into catering and also took on roles as a business development and food sales account manager with a couple of Perth-based food service companies. The unexpected twist of the pandemi...
Aug 22, 2023•49 min•Ep 14•Transcript available on Metacast Caroline Taylor is a Chef, Presenter, and Hospitality Consultant with 20 years of experience in the industry. Opening her first restaurant at age 20, Swan Valley Institute Taylor’s Art and Coffee House, trained by Restranteurs Kate and Fiona Lamont, Caroline creates tasty and accessible recipes showcasing quality WA produce for the home cook. A regular contributor to ABC ‘Perth Foodie’ segment, 6PR, and a presenter on Channel 9 hit show ‘Our State on a Plate’, Caroline aims to lift the profile o...
Aug 09, 2023•51 min•Ep 13•Transcript available on Metacast Tess Crake, born and raised in Perth, currently serves as the General Manager of Sin Gin Distillery in the Swan Valley. This thriving business operates in the hospitality and tourism sectors, producing and retailing spirits. Sin Gin has garnered significant recognition, including winning the prestigious Gold Tourism Award in 2022 and receiving multiple awards for its exceptional spirits. With a degree in Tourism & Hospitality, Tess is a dedicated manager and leader with a true passion for de...
Jul 12, 2023•36 min•Ep 12•Transcript available on Metacast Kevin Dobson is an accomplished chef and co-owner of 3.8 Baysie. With a lifelong passion for hospitality, Kevin began his culinary journey at the age of 12 as a fry boy. From there, he explored various culinary roles, including bakeries and hotels across Australia and New Zealand. His culinary adventures also took him to the United States and Mallorca, Spain, where he gained valuable experience and honed his skills. Kevin's culinary expertise and diverse background led him to serve as a chef...
Jun 27, 2023•36 min•Ep 11•Transcript available on Metacast Born in West Australia, Chef Rohan Park followed his family's culinary legacy after exploring other fields. He honed his skills at renowned wineries in Margaret River, developing a passion for native ingredients and foraging. Joining Fervor, he crafted unique dining experiences across Australia. Park then spearheaded the opening of Fleur, a seafood-focused restaurant in Perth that garnered numerous accolades. Partnering with James Young, he created Old Young's Kitchen, redefining dining ...
Jun 14, 2023•38 min•Ep 10•Transcript available on Metacast Craig Hollywood is Western Australia’s Local Hero for 2022 as part of the Australian Of The Year Awards. He is the Founder of the volunteer-led for purpose organisation Short Back & Sidewalks, a group that provides positive connections and breaks the stigma attached to vulnerable members of the community across Australia, one free haircut at a time. SBSW was founded by Craig as a result of observing a service delivery gap among those in need in the community. He has been an active member of ...
May 30, 2023•43 min•Ep 9•Transcript available on Metacast Rachael Niall, an accomplished Beverage & Business Coach, specialises in helping entrepreneurs in the drinks and hospitality industry. Passionate about branding and product development, she supports clients in creating successful businesses while prioritising personal well-being. As the founder of Tomorrow on Tap, a renowned non-alcoholic drinks store, Rachael's entrepreneurial spirit shines. With diverse experience as a former bar owner, sommelier, and wine marketer, she provides invalu...
May 16, 2023•39 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, we sit down with Kate O'Hara, CEO of Foodbank WA, and Jennifer Tartaglia, Manager of the Nutrition Education Team, to discuss some of the pressing issues related to food in Australia. Foodbank WA is Australia's largest food relief organisation, providing food and groceries to charities and school breakfast programs in every state and territory. With a mission to fight hunger in WA, Foodbank provides quality food to people in need and delivers food education that promotes...
May 03, 2023•44 min•Ep 7•Transcript available on Metacast Join us as we sit down with Alex Paioff, Managing Director of MITP Agency & Pilerats, Part owner of music venues Jack Rabbit Slims, and Lucy's Love Shack. Alex's work in these businesses has been recognised in AMID's Top 50 Most Powerful in the Australian Music and Entertainment Industry, where he was ranked No. 41, and as a finalist in the West Australian Young Achiever Awards. Throughout his experience, Alex has owned and re-established music venues, executed several major musi...
Apr 18, 2023•40 min•Ep 6•Transcript available on Metacast 
