All Episodes

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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, ...

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 ...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 ...

In this episode, Michael welcomes Mario, an entrepreneur with a diverse background in the hospitality industry. They discuss the concept of 'Schwellenangst' – the fear of crossing thresholds when making significant decisions in life and business. Mario shares his journey from investment banking to running multiple successful hospitality ventures including Vapiano and Curtis Brothers ketchup. The conversation delves into Mario's recent experiences living with monks in Sri Lanka, where he learned ...

Welcome to episode 4 of the Special Edition podcast series “EXPANSION THROUGH CULTURE - The Scandi Way”. In this episode, the guest is Carl Johan Paulsen, CEO of Noon, BaneGaarden, and Table, a maverick food company from Copenhagen, for a journey into how they have built a culture that gives them a competitive edge. Carl Johan and Michael dive into: The Journey of Carl Johan. The why behind the company. How they have taken a different approach to building culture. Why culture is a hardcore busin...

In this episode centered around hospitality and learning & development (L&D), the host meets Thomas near London Bridge to explore how technology can be leveraged to build a unique organizational culture. The discussion delves into Thomas's intriguing journey from rural America to a significant role at Dishoom in London, emphasizing how his experiences in acting and hospitality intersect. Thomas highlights the importance of servant leadership and continuous self-improvement in creating a strong c...

Shellye Archambeau shares her inspirational journey from aspiring to be a CEO at 16 to becoming the leader of MetricStream and a prominent figure in the tech industry. Shellye discusses the importance of setting clear goals, the value of planning, and overcoming obstacles such as imposter syndrome. She emphasizes the need for leaders to be clear, intentional, and vulnerable, and highlights the impact of mentorship and cheerleaders in one’s career. Shellye also introduces her nonprofit, Ignite Am...

Jennifer Ryan turns the tables and interviews the host, Michael, about his fascinating journey in the hospitality industry. Michael shares his experiences growing up in a family-run food business in Denmark, holding leadership roles at McDonald's, and launching his own ventures. Key lessons include the importance of continuous improvement, humility, and people-focused leadership. The conversation extends to daily routines, self-reflection, and balancing work with personal life through team sport...

In this episode, Michael interviews Mark, a civil engineer and former managing director in the environmental consultancy sector who introduces Wizso, an innovative solution aimed at transforming the way water is used in toilet facilities. Mark narrates his unexpected journey from McDonald's water-saving initiatives to developing Wizso—an environmentally friendly, fizzy tablet designed to reduce toilet flushes and conserve water efficiently. The discussion covers Mark's inspiration, the developme...

This episode delves into the intricate process of creating standout hospitality concepts in a competitive market, emphasizing the importance of human connection in the digital age. The guest, Holly Hallam, Managing Director of Design LSM, shares her unique journey from TV and marketing to redefining the hospitality design experience. Through strategic focus on brand and guest experience, Design LSM collaborates closely with clients like Gaucho and the RFU to innovate and create spaces that foste...

In this episode, Josh shares his journey from fashion to founding Wingshack and later Big Appetite, focusing on how AI has been instrumental in driving business innovation, optimizing operations, and improving customer relationships. Additionally, Josh advocates for the positive impact of AI on life, promoting travel, new experiences, and the embrace of technology for a better living. He also introduces a newsletter from BigAppetiteCo.ai aimed at offering AI insights to business owners. The narr...

In this episode, you will hear from Feri Naseh, the founder and CEO of MeTime Healing, an innovative platform addressing mental health concerns. MeTime Healing aims to make emotional and behavioral guidance accessible and affordable. Our discussion covers the platform’s genesis, its mission to provide healing without borders, and how it connects users with licensed clinicians for online therapy. Feri shares her personal journey and the challenges in finding the right mental health support, leadi...