Hospitality Mavericks Podcast

A dark kitchen serves customers exclusively by delivery, operating as a separate food vendor from an existing restaurant's kitchen. It’s certainly a smart business model, but many brands can flop after launching. So what does it take to create visibility out of the kitchen’s invisibility? Having run his own food supply business for nearly 30 years, Azher Rubbani has been on a journey of transformation and decided to launch his own dark kitchen, Chowbunch, during the pandemic. Azher joins me today to share some really practical insights into how to launch a successful dark kitchen – from startup costs and following a multi-brand model. Tune in as we explore how strong brands exist virtually, A/B testing ingredients, virtual queues, servant leadership –  and dispelling some of the key myths.Links:Azher’s LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/azherrubbani Chowbunch.com: ​​https://www.chowbunch.com/ CombatFiles.com: https://www.combatfiles.com/ Coming Back Stronger Episode 5 with Yazz Abdu

“I don’t want to share the finances” to “I’m not good with numbers”... these are all common phrases that hold us back as leaders. So today I bring on a real financial maverick, David Lund, who helps people get comfortable with numbers. He is the Founder of Hotel Financial Coach and supports leaders of hotel firms through financial training.  David’s background includes over 30 years as a Regional Controller, Corporate Financial Director, Hotel Manager and Controller throughout North America. Calling in from New England, I found out from David how to empower everyone in your team to be savvy with the finances. In this conversation, we discuss open-book management, investments versus expenses, the power of financial training, compound interest – and his business pivot over the pandemic.  Links:#114 Ari Weinzweig, Co-Founder of Zingerman's, on Self-Leadership: https://hospitality-mavericks.captivate.fm/episode/114 ‘The One Thing’ by Gary KellerHotel Financial Coach: https://hotelfinancia

Today’s guest proves how the hospitality industry is so flexible. Consultant Jon Spiteri is currently a partner of Sessions Arts club – a creative studio from painter Jonny Gent together with partner architect Russell Potter. Located in a restored 18th century Grade II former courthouse on Clerkenwell Green, Sessions Arts Club brings together art, people, food and wine. Like most of us, Jon’s work was massively affected by the pandemic, but having a clear vision helped him navigate through it.I’m excited to have Jon on the show to discuss how he closely involves his staff in the business, sticking to your guns, working with investors – and eating at 4pm.  Links:#114 Ari Weinzweig, Co-Founder of Zingerman's, on Self-Leadership: https://hospitality-mavericks.captivate.fm/episode/114 ‘Setting the Table’ by Danny Meyer: ​​https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0462099253Jon’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spitz69/ Jon’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/spitz69 #13 Staying True to Moshimo With Kar

As a founder of two hospitality brands, today’s guest is a true early adopter with technology. JP Then believes you can reach so many more customers if you have an omni-channel strategy. He is the founder of Slerp, an on-demand e-commerce and order management system, and Crosstown Doughnuts, a London brand specialising in handcrafted doughnuts and specialty coffee.Tune in to find out more about using ecommerce systems fit for hospitality. We also discuss finding a business partner, the future of sharing spaces, the ‘nothing to lose’ mentality, how to avoid gimmicky technology – and pairing beer with doughnuts.Links:KAM Media studies: https://kam-media.co.uk/resources/ Slerp: https://www.crosstown.co.uk/ Crosstown: https://www.slerp.com/ JP’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpthen/ #110 Christophe Delacroix, Co-Founder of StoreKit: https://hospitality-mavericks.captivate.fm/episode/110 Connect with the podcast:Join the Hospitality Mavericks newsletter: https://rb.gy/5rqyeq&n

Tim Foster joins the show to help arm you with your recruitment tactics. Tim is Head of Being Awesome at the Yummy Pub Co, which operates pubs in London and Surrey. Yummy Pub is a boutique pub company founded in 2007 by Tim, Anthony Pender and Jason Rowlands. They’ve learnt how a hospitality business can survive and thrive amidst a pandemic, through adaptability, staff engagement, and a resilient mindset. Tim’s drive and ambition to succeed is infectious.  In this discussion, Tim shares how he uses his staff as Yummy Pub’s competitive edge. We also explore the power of honesty, creative approaches to training and development, the ‘fully booked’ mentality, customer perception and reviews, and celebrating successes. Links:Yummy Pub Co: https://www.yummypubs.co.uk/ #107 Marco Reick, Director of People & Talent at QOOT Co, on Fixing the Talent Crisis: https://hospitality-mavericks.captivate.fm/episode/107 Tim’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/foster-tim-440626a/ Letterbox C

Award-winning PR and media expert Sangeeta Waldron is the founder of Serendipity PR and the author of The PR Knowledge Book and Corporate Social Responsibility is Not Public Relations. She is often invited to events both nationally and globally, where she speaks about the media, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and diversity in business.In this fascinating discussion, we explore what it takes for businesses to fully embody their corporate social responsibility. Tune in to this interview to find out more about the pioneering businesses, combatting greenwashing, the drive for more diversity and inclusion, learning from our next generation of savvy consumers, and what tipping point we’re in right now. Links:‘Corporate Social Responsibility is Not Public Relations’ by Sangeeta Waldron: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Corporate-Social-Responsibility-Public-Relations/dp/1911671421/ The UN 17 Goals: https://sdgs.un.org/goals Superdrug’s Social Responsibility Report 2021: https://www.superdrug.com/medias

Ari Weinzweig is a true maverick when it comes to leadership and sticking to a vision. He believes in the need to build a business that not only achieves great business results but also makes a significant positive impact on your people, community and our planet. Ari is the Co-Founder of Zingerman's Delicatessen, which is a nationally renowned food icon.  Zingerman’s Community of Businesses has grown to 10 businesses with over 750 employees and over $55 million in annual revenue. Over the years, Ari has written a range of books and pamphlets including Zingerman’s Guide to Good Leading, and many other great books and pamphlets you can find via their website.With a 2032 vision already in place, Ari has crafted the power of self-leadership and detailed missions. Join our conversation as we discuss how to better manage yourself, the art of visioning, teaching systems design, the power of language, and how to have a healthy relationship with time.Links:‘Small Giants’ by Bo Burlingham: https://www.amazon.

Binge Marketing is a marketing strategy that has you developing a long-term relationship with your audience using serial content. This fosters trust and lays a foundation for the realisation of your marketing goals. The person behind this concept is Carlijn Postma, founder of the content marketing agency The Post and author of ‘Binge Marketing: The Best Scenario for Building Your Brand’.I invited Carlijn on to the show to find out how this methodology works, and how you can start implementing these ideas for your business. Join us as we discuss having a long-term vision with your purpose, expanding your story in serial format, some storytelling techniques like the ‘hero's journey, the lessons learnt from her advertising career, and how brands are getting Netflix documentary series.  If after listening to the conversation you want her book you can get it here, and she has also kindly offered the Maverick Community a special discount of 20% off her online course "10-Day Online Course "Binge

Levy UK is the catering and hospitality partner to many of the UK's iconic sport, leisure, heritage, performing venues, conference and exhibition centres – and with that comes great responsibility for a green future. MD of Levy UK and Ireland Jon Davies shares how so much is possible to change within the catering and hospitality industry, and why the future is bright. In this inspiring conversation, we learn more about how such a large catering company is tackling food waste and working with sustainable suppliers. We also discuss rewilding land, educating people’s food choices, preparing for this year’s UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26), finding sustainable solutions for clients – and the power of oyster mushrooms.Links:City Harvest: https://www.cityharvest.org.uk/ ‘No Planet B’ by Mike Berners-Lee: https://www.amazon.co.uk/There-No-Planet-Handbook-Break/dp/1108439586‘The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals’ by Michael Pollan: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Omnivores-Dile

How digitally visible are you with your staff? In today’s episode, we explore the new era of leadership that’s been shaped by how we use technology – the social leader. Rob Liddiard, Co-founder and CEO of Yapster, share what you can do with technology to help you lead your team and scale your communication.Founded in 2015, Yapster is a fully integrated mobile communications platform, designed for frontline colleagues who don’t have company email addresses. The platform is used by many of the most recognisable frontline organisations known to the public, including BrewDog, Caffè Nero, Krispy Kreme and Wagamama. Listen to find out more about Yapster’s influence score, gamifying sales, the role of data in leadership, micro efforts – and polo shirts.Links:Yapster: https://www.yapster.info/‘Good To Great’ by Jim Collins: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Good-Great-Jim-Collins/dp/0712676090/ Scotty Mills: https://twitter.com/scotty_mills07 ‘The Advantage’ by Patrick Lencioni: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0470

Choosing what technology to implement across your business can feel overwhelming, but today we find out what to keep front of mind when finding and implementing the right tools. Christophe Delacroix is the CEO and Co-Founder of StoreKit, a platform that simplifies eCommerce for hospitality. They help you build your own online ordering store through their seamless 2-way integrations with over 40 Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) systems.In this conversation, we explore how technology has helped the growth of many small operators. We also discuss how to optimise your eCommerce channels, digitising the in-store experience, on-screen purchasing habits, the future of tills, and how to lead with the experimental mindset. Links:StorkeKit: https://storekit.com/ #106 Victoria Searl, Founder of DataHawks, on the Data-Driven Customer Journey: https://www.hospitalitymavericks.com/podcast/episode/252fd5c6/106-victoria-searl-founder-of-datahawks-on-the-data-driven-customer-journey After Hours: https://harvarda

Paula Leach is an author, speaker, executive coach and advisor. She founded Vantage Points Consulting in 2021 to help high achievers build their impact as leaders in the world by growing authenticity, freedom, creativity and implementing high performance methods for leading inspired teams. Prior to that, she held leadership positions from large corporations, entrepreneurial startups, to the Home Office. Paula is super pragmatic, so tune in to this episode to learn more about her leadership style, and the things we need to unlearn to move forward. We discuss the magnetic vs. push culture, the power of space to make sense of things, how to practise deep self-awareness – and “purple time”. Links:‘Vantage Points’ by Paula Leach: https://www.amazon.com/Vantage-Points-create-culture-employees/dp/1911671006 Vantage Points Foundation: https://vantagepointsconsulting.com/vantage-points-foundation ‘A New Earth’ by Ekhart TolleVantagePointsConsulting.com: https://vantagepointsconsulting.com/ Pau

Andrew Coney is a true Maverick and rule breaker. As the General Manager of the boutique hotel The Hari, London, Andrew embraces the power of being a small operator by giving truly tailored experiences to all guests. The Hari is a 5* 85-​bedroom luxury hotel situated in the heart of Belgravia, and Andrew has been GM since 2014. We can all learn something from the hotel business, so I can’t wait to find out more about Andrew’s work ethic. In this impactful conversation, we uncover what it takes to instil spontaneity and autonomy within your team. We also discuss doing charity work through your business, positive stalking, Tripadvisor, and delivering a home experience. Links:Born Free: https://www.bornfree.org.uk/TheHari.com: https://www.thehari.com/ #87 Deepak Ohri, CEO Lebua Hotels and Resorts, on Emotional Touch Points: https://hospitality-mavericks.captivate.fm/episode/87 Connect with the podcast:Join the Hospitality Mavericks newsletter: https://rb.gy/5rqyeq  A big thank you t

It has been just over a year since Marco Reick joined the show to discuss company values during a crisis. A lot has happened since for both hospitality and Marco, so I can’t wait to catch up and reflect what we’ve learnt. Marco is now the Director of People & Talent at QOOT Co. – an investment and management company in the world of hospitality. Their portfolio of market-leading brands and restaurants include The Gentlemen Barista, The Lebanese Bakery, Chestnut and 19th Century Burger. In this conversation, we explore how we can retain our great talent, as well as find new people. Tune in to learn more about interactive online learning, how simplified tech will help us navigate post-lockdown transitions, lessons learnt from a recruitment fair – and looking out for a grey rhino.Links:#49 Company values in times of crisis with Marco Reick, Director MR Consult UK: https://hospitality-mavericks.captivate.fm/episode/49-company-values-in-times-of-crisis-with-marco-reick‘Can you see the grey rhino?’: https:/

It doesn’t take a data scientist to understand the patterns of human behaviour in your business. I speak with data expert Victoria Searl to unpack exactly what you need to do to be more informed with your decisions. As Founder of DataHawks, her digital marketing agency uses your data to identify and profile your most valuable customers – creating and delivering business changing acquisition, conversion and retention.Join us as we explore the discount syndrome, customer avatars, ‘proof of presence’ data, analysing the Eat Out To Help scheme – and lessons learned from her two grandmas. Too often we rely on our gut instinct in hospitality, so it’s time to shake things up and “be more ecommerce”.Links:‘Good To Great’ by Jim Collins: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Good-Great-Jim-Collins/dp/0712676090/ Moneyball (2011): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4QPVo0UIzc ‘Start With Why’ by Simon Sinek: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Start-Why-Leaders-Inspire-Everyone/dp/0241958229/ ‘The First 90 Days’ by Michael Watkin

“Think big, dive deep, swim fast” is the motto today’s guest lives by. Perry Haydn Taylor is the Founder of bigfish, an award winning brand, design and marketing consultancy that isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo. Working with the likes of Sipsmith, Kallo, Tyrells, Whole Earth and Gü Puds to name a few, I’m excited to hear more about Perry’s journey and his philosophy on the ‘the Startup Mentality’.Listen to our conversation as we explore what makes a maverick brand, and why we need to challenge our clients more. We also discuss unf**king the planet, documentaries, measuring ambition, being obsessed with your product – and our bookshelves. Links:Bigfish: https://www.bigfish.co.uk/ Perry’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perry-haydn-taylor-1370669/ Seaspiracy Documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Q5CXN7soQg Fishlove: http://fishlove.co.uk/All Plants: https://allplants.com/Biscuiteers: https://www.biscuiteers.com/Tuck Trucks: https://tucktrucks.co.uk/‘Eating The Big Fish

In this bonus episode, we will go behind the scenes of our show partner Bizimply  Michael will be talking to Founder Gerard Forde and CEO Conor Shaw of Bizimply who will share their journeys in hospitality and big tech companies. Gerard will share the why and the story behind Bizimply that he started back in 2015. How they went from start-up wilderness to scale up tech company.You will find out that they are obsessed with the industry and how to solve many of its problems by ensuring that frontline managers are empowered to run their businesses like clockwork and spend more time on the shop floor developing their people.  Along the way, we dive into the culture, digitalisation, prediction for the future of hospitality and much more.Books from the episode:Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in BusinessBen and Jerry's Double-dip: Lead with Your Values and Make Money TooPour Your Heart Into It: How Starbucks Built a Company OneWhen Cultures Collide: Leading Across Cu

Currently based in North Carolina, USA, Charlotte Purvis’ career was heavily influenced by her time speaking in church at her home town in Alabama. Today, Charlotte is a highly sought after Customer Service Consultant, trainer, coach, speaker, and author of ‘The Customer Communication Formula’.I really enjoyed discussing with Charlotte about how we communicate with our customers. Join our conversation as we explore Charlotte’s Customer Communication Formula, future-focused feedback and what we can learn from hotel housekeepers. What’s clear from this interview is that regardless of what channel you use to communicate with your audience, customer service begins with the leader. Links:‘The Customer Communication Formula’ by Charlotte Purvis: https://www.amazon.com/Customer-Communication-Formula-communicate-customers/dp/1946425680/ ‘The One Minute Manager’ by Ken Blanchard: https://www.amazon.com/Manager-Kenneth-Johnson-Spencer-Blanchard/dp/B002BFP0SO/ Twitter @SpeakerCPurvis: https://twitter.com/

Today I delve more into the entrepreneurial journey. After connecting on LinkedIn, Amelia Rope is a kindred spirit who shares what hope and patience mean to her day-to-day. She’s the host of the podcast ‘Hope & Patience’, where she explores with guests the challenges of running a business and how to take care of yourself along the way – all whilst eating their favourite chocolate too. For over a decade, she ran the award-winning chocolate business Amelia Rope Chocolate, so we learn more about her lessons learnt from that journey. She has competed twice on ‘Masterchef, and she is a volunteer employment mentor for Fine Cell Work’s ‘Open the Gate’ programme.I’m excited to have her on the show as we discuss business cycles, why she started her podcast, working with life coaches, the power of appreciation – and recovering from broken bones.Links:Hope & Patience Podcast: https://hopeandpatience.co.uk/podcasts S2 E8 Angus Thirlwell, Co-Founder Hotel Chocolat: https://hopeandpatience.co.uk/podcasts/

Joining us all the way from Dubai, CEO at Global Hotel Alliance Chris Hartley shares what hotel industry trends to expect. It’s a very refreshing conversation as we rethink travel. GHA is one of the world's largest alliances of independent hotel brands, formed out of a necessity to pool resources to compete with the mega brands. Chris was the first employee when the company was formed in 2004, and has seen the growth of the network since. The GHA now has a membership of over 550 hotels with representation in over 75 countries.Tune in to learn more about the future of business travel, travel “pocket” trends, hotels serving local communities, and what it’s like setting up an alliance with other hotels. Links:Chris Hartley’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherhartleygha/ Global Hotel Alliance’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-hotel-alliance/ Email Chris: christopher.hartley@gha.com Global Hotel Alliance: https://www.globalhotelalliance.com/ Discovery