This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests:

1. Sacha Lord FIH – Chair, Night Time Industries Association; Founder, The Warehouse Project & Parklife
2. Aymen Fetouak MIH – Head of Professional Development, Institute of Hospitality
3. Emily Clark AIH – Industry Engagement Officer, Edge Hotel School; IOH Youth Council

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

Looking Ahead to 2026: New Year, New Challenges

As hospitality steps into 2026, the mood is mixed. Hope, frustration, resilience, fear, and optimism all collide in this honest, wide ranging conversation about what lies ahead for the industry.

Joined by Sacha Lord, Aymen Fetouak, and Emily Clark, Phil explores the pressures facing hospitality, from government policy and rising costs to leadership behaviour, professional development, and the future workforce, while also uncovering where hope still lives and how the sector can create its own momentum.

This is a candid, thoughtful discussion about realism without resignation and why hospitality remains worth fighting for.

1. What 2026 feels like for hospitality leaders on the ground
2. The impact of government policy, VAT, business rates, and political decision-making
3. Why hospitality often feels misunderstood at policy level
4. The real human cost of closures - businesses, homes, families, and mental health
5. How public support for hospitality is growing again
6. Why pubs, restaurants, and hotels are more than just businesses
7. The pressure facing leaders as margins tighten and teams shrink
8. Long hours, burnout, and the risk of losing joy from the industry
9. The importance of collaboration, not top-down decision-making
10. Why professional development must become practical, human, and continuous
11. Mentoring, real-world learning, and “capability in the moment”
12. Leadership behaviours Gen Z wants to see disappear
13. Why younger generations are still optimistic - and ready to innovate
14. Creating hope rather than waiting for it

Sacha Lord:

For Sacha, becoming a Fellow of the Institute of Hospitality was an unexpected and deeply meaningful honour. With no formal qualifications and 30 years in the...

This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests:

1. Mark Lewis FIH – Chief Executive, Hospitality Action
2. Lizzie Grundy AIH – Weddings & Private Dining Manager, Pennyhill Park; Vice Chair, IOH Youth Council

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

Supporting Communities at Christmas: The Season of Giving Back

In this festive episode of I’m In, host Phil Street brings together two brilliant hospitality voices, Mark Lewis of Hospitality Action and Lizzie Grundy of Pennyhill Park, to explore what supporting communities at Christmas truly means.

From tackling loneliness to charitable giving, team wellbeing, and authentic generosity, this warm, heartfelt conversation reminds us that hospitality’s spirit shines brightest when we take care of one another.

In this episode, we discuss:

1. What “supporting communities at Christmas” means to those working in hospitality
2. Hospitality Action’s Golden Friends scheme and how it supports retired workers
3. Why Christmas can be emotionally tough, and how kindness helps bridge the gap
4. Real examples of hotels giving back: toy donations, charity Christmas cards, and more
5. Supporting your own teams during the busiest season of the year
6. The power of time and volunteering when finances are stretched
7. Why acts of generosity are contagious
8. Industry wide collaborations like Walk for Wellbeing and the Always Open at Christmas charity single

Why Our Guests Said, “I’m In!”

Mark Lewis:

Mark believes deeply in the importance of professional development and the role the IOH plays in supporting hospitality careers. As someone committed to supporting the industry’s people, joining the IOH community was a natural step.

Lizzie Grundy:

Fresh out of university, Lizzie wanted a professional home that would help her continue learning, connecting, and growing. The IOH gave her that, and now, through the Youth Council, she helps others find their voice and their community too.

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode

1. “We help people who hit a bump in the road, and Christmas is when that help matters most” – Mark Lewis
2. “It’s all about making sure people feel the spirit of Christmas in every way, not just spending, but sharing” – Lizzie Grundy
3. “Hospitality people are, by nature, generous. They’re happy to work while others rest, and they still find ways to give back” – Mark Lewis

This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests:

• Edd Gallier FIH – Head of Learning & Development, Leonardo Hotels
• Damien Martin MIH – General Manager, The Parkgate Hotel, Cardiff
• Mark Grant MIH – Chair, IOH Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) Council

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

Supporting Trans People into the Workplace: Building Cultures of Belonging

In this episode, Phil Street leads an open and constructive conversation about how hospitality businesses can better support trans people in the workplace — and, more broadly, how we can create cultures where everyone feels safe, valued, and able to be themselves.

Joined by Edd Gallier, Damien Martin, and Mark Grant, this discussion explores what inclusion really means in day-to-day operations: from policy and language to allyship, leadership, and learning through honest mistakes.

In this episode, we discuss:

• What “supporting trans people into the workplace” truly means in practice
• Why culture and belonging are more powerful than compliance
• How language signal respect and inclusion
• Creating psychologically safe spaces for dialogue and education
• Balancing belief systems, dignity, and organisational values
• The importance of allyship and calling out poor behaviour from guests as well as colleagues
• Measuring inclusion beyond numbers: belonging, engagement, and lived experience
• The role of leadership, communication, and technology in building inclusive workplaces

Why Our Guests Said, “I’m In!”

Edd Gallier: For Edd, joining the IOH is about professional recognition and raising standards of learning and development across hospitality, ensuring everyone receives the growth and respect they deserve

Damien Martin: Damien sees the IOH as a vital resource for development and recognition, helping his team learn, grow, and bring their best selves to work every day

Mark Grant: As Chair of the IOH DEIB Council, Mark champions hospitality’s welcoming nature and its potential to reflect society’s best values: opportunity, inclusion, and community

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode

• “Creating a culture where everyone can feel they belong — that’s the real measure of success” – Edd Gallier
• “Hospitality is about welcoming everyone. Inclusivity isn’t optional” – Damien Martin
• “If someone has a problem with you, it doesn’t have to become a problem for you” – Mark Grant
• “Language signals respect, even small changes can make a big impact” – Damien Martin
• “Don’t wait for someone else to act. Speak up. Be an ally” – Mark Grant
• “Everyone deserves a workplace where they can just be themselves” – Phil Street

Creating truly inclusive workplaces starts with conversation, courage, and consistency. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion that gets to the heart of what belonging really means in hospitality

Join the Conversation

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

Website:

This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland

https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests:

• Francisco Macedo - Chairing the IOH Funded Membership
• Carmen Vlasceanu - Author of Dare to Care, cruise hospitality consultant; beneficiary of funded membership
• Jenny Cheung – Front of house professional; beneficiary of funded membership during COVID
• Joanne Smith - Institute of Hospitality; co-creator of Hearts in Hospitality award
• Marvellous Dada - President, TMD Mentorship (Nigeria); Hearts in Hospitality recipient
• Pete Wayre - Hospitality leader & trainer; Hearts in Hospitality recipient
• Marco De Simone – Restaurants Professional; Hearts in Hospitality recipient

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

I’m In - 50th Episode Special: Community, Care & Quiet Heroes

For our 50th, we spotlight two IOH initiatives that change real lives: the Funded Membership (confidential membership support when times are tough) and Hearts in Hospitality (recognising unsung heroes who go above and beyond).

You’ll hear frank advice on applying for funded membership, first hand stories of how it helps people bounce back, and joyful reminders of everyday heroism across hospitality.

In this episode, we discuss

• The Funded Membership - how it works & why it matters: a confidential lifeline that helps members stay connected to opportunities, learning, and community when finances are tight.
• What makes a strong application?
• The lived impact of funded membership: confidence, connection, access to learning, and headspace to rebuild.
• Hearts in Hospitality: why the IOH created it, how nominations are judged, and the power of celebrating frontline excellence.
• Real stories from awardees: going further than expected, serving with heart, and lifting the next generation.

Specific Guest input

• Francisco Macedo on the Funded Membership’s purpose and some tips for a successful application
• Carmen Vlasceanu on what funding unlocked: from MBA/PhD studies to launching a charity (Angels Wings), and a training platform - membership access made momentum possible.
• Jenny Cheung on the COVID years: funded membership brought learning, confidential support, and a sense of community when work vanished - now she’s a paying member and paying it forward.
• Joanne Smith on Hearts in Hospitality: built by a cross team taskforce to celebrate people who “do the job well and more,” with surprise workplace presentations and panel review.
• Marvellous Dada on youth and purpose: building Nigeria’s largest hospitality student network and choosing service over comfort to raise a new generation for the industry.
• Pete Wayre on exceeding expectations: the small, human acts (like personally guiding a lost guest across Manchester) and a career long mantra - presentation and care matter.
• Marco De Simone on the sheer surprise of receiving the award, what it means and why awards like this are important

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode

• “The Funded Membership can give people a lifeline” - Francisco...

This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests:

• Kan Koo MBE FIH – Executive Director, Cosmo Restaurant Group
• Louise Brown MIH – Commercial Executive, Institute of Hospitality
• Harsh Sodhani AIH – Business Development Manager, Hilton London Bankside

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

B2B Sales in Hospitality: Relationships, Trust, and the Role of AI

Selling business-to-business is part art, part science.

But in hospitality, it’s always about relationships. In this episode, Phil is joined by Kan Khoo, Louise Brown, and Harsh Sodhani to explore the realities of B2B sales: from building trust and tailoring language to knowing when (if ever) a hard sell is appropriate.

This conversation unpacks the balance between data and dinners, the pitfalls of bad pitches, and why the human touch still matters in an increasingly tech-driven world.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why relationship building is the cornerstone of B2B sales
• When (and how) to use data to back up trust
• The dangers of the “hard sell” and when it might be justified
• How language needs to adapt for different stakeholders
• Mistakes too many salespeople make in hospitality
• What separates true partners from one-time vendors
• The role professional bodies play in raising sales standards
• Whether AI can ever replace the human element in B2B selling

Why Our Guests Said, “I’m In!”

Kan Khoo: A Member for nearly four decades, Kan has always been passionate about mentoring and supporting the next generation, while proudly championing diversity and inclusion through his restaurants.

Louise Brown: With hospitality in her blood, Louise has been part of the IOH on and off since 1989. She thrives on connecting people and ensuring members and partners get real value from their relationships.

Harsh Sodhani: Having built his UK career from scratch, Harsh values the IOH for mentorship, connections, and the Youth Council’s platform for new voices in the industry.

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode

• “To build long-term successful enterprise, when you don’t close a sale, open a relationship” – Patricia Fripp (quoted by Phil)
• “Data builds credibility, but dinner builds trust” – Harsh Sodhani
• “AI and IT don’t have feelings, the human touch in B2B is still irreplaceable” – Kan Khoo
• “If you’re not actively listening, you’re not selling, you’re just shouting” – Louise Brown
• “Be the most inquisitive person in the room, not the most knowledgeable. That’s how you build trust” – Phil Street

Join the Conversation

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

From bad pitches to brilliant partnerships, this episode is packed with real-world insights for anyone in sales or hospitality leadership.

Tune in now!

Have feedback or want to feature on a future episode? Contact Phil at phil.street@instituteofhospitality.org

AI & Efficiency in Small Business: Friend, Foe, or Force for Growth?

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests: Professor Peter Jones FIH, Professor Roya Rahimi MIH & Bradley Dorrington AIH

Artwork & Branding: Sonja Cresswell MIH

Music: Leon Williams FIH

AI is everywhere, but what does it really mean for small business owners in hospitality? In this episode, Phil is joined by Professor Peter Jones, Professor Roya Rahimi, and Bradley Dorrington to unpack the role of AI in making small businesses more efficient, agile, and competitive.

From practical “quick wins” to the bigger ethical questions, this conversation explores how AI is already transforming the industry and how small businesses can adopt it without fear or overwhelm.

Whether you’re excited, cautious, or somewhere in between, this discussion will give you clarity on where to start and what to watch out for.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How AI can free up time by automating repetitive tasks
• The real opportunities for small businesses in data analysis and decision making
• Why adopting AI doesn’t mean replacing staff
• Practical starting points for small operators curious about AI
• How marketing and customer engagement are being reshaped by AI
• The misconceptions (and fears) that hold small businesses back
• Why AI should be seen as a supportive tool, not a threat

Why Our Guests Said, “I’m In!”

Peter Jones: A Fellow for over 30 years, Peter values the IOH as a supportive, evolving professional body that grows alongside the industry.

Roya Rahimi: Passionate about bridging academia and industry, Roya sees the IOH as a vital community that reflects her lifelong commitment to service and hospitality.

Bradley Dorrington: As a small business owner and now Chair of the Youth Council, Bradley values the IOH for its network, support, and commitment to showcasing hospitality as a vibrant career path.

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode

• “AI is your starting point, not the end answer. You’ve still got to ask the right questions” – Peter Jones
• “AI makes me feel like a superhuman — it frees me from repetitive tasks so I can focus on what really matters” – Roya Rahimi
• “Sometimes it’s just about giving it a go. Even a simple chatbot or fact-checking tool can make a big difference” – Bradley Dorrington
• “The power is in the prompt” – Phil Street

Join the Conversation

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

AI in hospitality isn’t science fiction, it’s already here. The question is: how will you use it? Tune in now to find out!

Have feedback or want to feature on a future episode? Contact Phil at phil.street@instituteofhospitality.org

This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests:

· James B Clarke FIH – General Manager, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge & Chair, Master Innholders

· Lisa Bright MIH – Professional Development Administrator, Institute of Hospitality

· Rishabh Vaish AIH – Business Development E-Commerce, Blue Orchid Hotels & Youth Council, IOH

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH) Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

Mentorship in Hospitality: At what point does it stop being effective?

In this episode, Phil is joined by James B Clarke, Lisa Bright, and Rishabh Vaish to dig deep into the subject of mentorship. From first hand stories to hard truths about when it goes wrong, this conversation unpacks the real value of mentoring relationships and when they risk becoming meaningless.

If you’ve ever considered being a mentor, becoming a mentee, or just want to better understand how to create growth focused relationships in hospitality, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why mentorship matters more than ever
• What makes a mentoring relationship truly work
• Setting the right ground rules
• The dangers of ineffective or one sided mentorship
• How to spot when it’s time to part ways
• The role of reverse mentoring
• How to ensure guidance doesn’t become outdated advice
• Why mentoring isn’t about creating clones

Why Our Guests Said, “I’m In!”

James B Clarke: A long-time Fellow and passionate advocate for collaboration and mentoring, James believes the IOH and Master Innholders are critical to nurturing future leaders. His goal? To be part of shaping a strong, resilient, and people focused profession.

Lisa Bright: Lisa loves being part of the wider hospitality family and especially values her work with Mentor Me, the IOH’s mentoring scheme. She sees it as an opportunity to support others and grow personally while connecting across the industry.

Rishabh Vaish: Having joined the IOH as a student, Rish was inspired by the welcoming environment and real world value of networking and mentorship. Now on the Youth Council, he’s helping others find their feet and their voice in hospitality.

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode:

“The delicate balance of mentoring someone is not creating them in your own image, but giving them the opportunity to create themselves” – Steven Spielberg (quoted by Phil)

“Mentorship is a win-win – as a mentor, you learn just as much as you give” – James B Clarke

“Mentoring is a gift. What you do with it is your choice” – Lisa Bright

“Mentorship is not about making clones. It’s about merging the best of yourself with someone else’s potential” – Rishabh Vaish

“Ineffective mentoring is worse than no mentoring at all” – Lisa Bright

“Reverse mentoring reignites your perspective. It’s not one sided – it’s two way growth” – Phil Street

Join the Conversation:

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

Website: https://www.instituteofhospitality.org/

Mentoring is more than a buzzword – it’s a commitment to growth, authenticity, and meaningful connection. This episode breaks it all down, so tune in now!

Have feedback or...

This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests: Jo Smith FIH (Institute of Hospitality), Vandana Dass MIH (Managing Director, Davenport Solicitors & IOH Trustee), Lizzie Grundy AIH (Weddings & Private Dining Manager, Pennyhill Park)

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

How to Manage an Employment Tribunal

In this episode of the Institute of Hospitality Podcast, Phil navigates the intricate and often misunderstood world of employment tribunals. Joined by Jo Smith FIH, Vandana Dass MIH, and Lizzie Grundy AIH, the discussion explores what tribunals really are, the misconceptions surrounding them, and how to prevent issues before they escalate. Whether you’re new to the workplace or a seasoned leader, this episode offers practical advice and real-world insight on managing workplace conflict with fairness and professionalism.

In this episode, we discuss:

⦁ What Is a Tribunal Anyway?

⦁ A clear explanation from legal expert Vandana Dass on how and why tribunals happen.

⦁ The Human Side of Conflict - How tensions in the workplace affect individuals and teams, with insight from Lizzie and Jo.

⦁ Misconceptions Around Tribunals - From both employer and employee perspectives — including some myths

⦁ Documentation Matters: Why consistent record keeping is key, and what employers often get wrong.

⦁ Culture, Communication, and Leadership: How proactive leadership and early conversations can help prevent escalation.

Why Our Guests Said “I’m In!”

Jo Smith: As a long-time team member at the IOH, Jo celebrates the supportive and forward-thinking community that makes the IOH special. She loves being part of a network where people matter above all else.

Vandana Dass: A passionate advocate for hospitality, Vandana joined the IOH because of its commitment to supporting professionals and creating a powerful, empathetic community of practice.

Lizzie Grundy: A member since her student days, Lizzie credits the IOH with offering the network, mentorship, and opportunity that helped her progress quickly in her career. It’s all about the people.

Key Moments and Quotes from the Episode:

“Employment tribunals are legal forums set up to resolve disputes between employers and employees — often a last resort when informal resolution fails.” – Vandana Dass

“Trust and confidence are central to any employment relationship. Once that’s gone, it’s very hard to get it back.” – Vandana Dass

"We should just gossip less, people" - Phil Street

"You have to balance protecting the company with genuinely caring about the people. That’s where true leadership lies."

“As leaders, we must be alert to shifts in behaviour. An employee acting differently can be a huge red flag.” – Vandana Dass

“Conflict is inevitable. What matters is how we deal with it, not whether we can avoid it.” – Lizzie Grundy

“Documentation is your best friend. If it’s not written down, it’s one person’s word against another.” – Vandana Dass

“A healthy workplace is one where people thrive and feel psychologically safe.” – Vandana Dass & Lizzie Grundy

Join the Conversation:

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

Website: https://www.instituteofhospitality.org

Tune in now for a compelling and accessible look into how tribunals work, how to avoid them, and how to foster a fairer, more communicative workplace.

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