Selamat Datang! (Welcome!) Su and Kat from Makan Malaysia join Kitchen Tales to share their inspiring journey from hosting tiny supper clubs in Reading to building a growing Malaysian food brand loved across the UK.
They talk about friendship, flavours, and the power of food to bring people together. From learning to cook Malaysian dishes after moving to the UK, to launching their own sauce range and catering for weddings across Europe — this is a story of passion, community, and cultural connection.
Explore the world of Makan Malaysia and discover why they believe food is more than just flavour — it’s about belonging.
Find out more: makanmalaysia.co.uk
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, hosts Colline and Rhona sit down with Caroline Dallas, founder of Luna UK, the vibrant Newbury boutique known for its colourful, Italian-made fashion and community-driven atmosphere. Caroline shares her remarkable journey — from DJing at raves in Cape Town and London to opening her first clothing shop on credit (while pregnant!) and eventually expanding to four stores before consolidating into her successful Newbury location.
She discusses imposter syndrome, surviving COVID, rebuilding her business, and the philosophy behind her one-size-fits-most approach that celebrates every body shape.
You’ll hear how Luna became a creative hub for local women, why passion outweighs qualifications, and how Caroline uses fashion to lift spirits and foster community.
Luna UK – Northbrook Street, Newbury
www.lunauk.co.uk
https://www.instagram.com/_luna_uk
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona sit down with Ruth, the founder of Priscilla’s Kitchen in East Garston. Ruth shares how she started her café with no formal qualifications, on the very day the banks collapsed — and somehow made it work.
What began as a homemade catering business has become a warm, welcoming hub for the local community. Ruth talks about imposter syndrome, learning to cook from her mother-in-law, the power of word-of-mouth, and how connection has become the true heart of her business.
From cakes baked with love to creating a space where people belong, this is a story of resilience, community, and the magic that happens when you simply give it a go.
Find Priscilla’s Kitchen on Facebook and Instagram, or visit in East Garston, open Wednesday to Saturday, 10–3.
https://www.priscillaskitchen.co.uk
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona sit down with Polly, founder of Wine with Polly, to talk about her journey from horticulture to wine education, her love for soil, and how English vineyards are flourishing across Berkshire and beyond.
Polly shares how a single wine-tasting course changed the direction of her life, leading her to teach, consult, and collaborate with vineyards including Winding Wood. The conversation explores the beauty and challenges of winemaking in the UK, the growing culture of English wine, and how food and wine pairing can completely transform a meal.
They also chat about the realities of running a business, family life, and the joy of doing what you love every day — even if it means tasting wine for a living.
Learn more about Polly at winewithpolly.co.uk or on Instagram at @winewithpolly.
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona sit down with Veronika from Nourish by Vi, a local yoga teacher, sound healer, and wellbeing practitioner, to talk about slowing down, reconnecting with yourself, and rediscovering joy through food and movement.
Veronika shares her deeply personal journey from burnout and anxiety to balance and purpose, and how changing her relationship with food, learning to pause, and embracing a simpler, more mindful life helped her truly find herself.
The conversation explores the connection between food, movement, and mental health, how yoga and breathwork can support the body and mind, and the power of viewing food as nourishment rather than punishment. Together they discuss how slowing down, cooking simply, and living with gratitude can lead to lasting wellbeing.
They also share their favourite comforting autumn meals, from pumpkin stews to homemade soups, and reflect on the importance of community, collaboration, and living with intention.
Find Veronika online at nourishbyv.com or on Instagram at @nourishbyv.
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.comYou can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecookStrategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.ukThis podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, hosts Colline and Rhona sit down with Ardita, co-founder of Mio Fiore, the much-loved Italian restaurant in Newbury — now celebrating 10 years in business — and the newly opened Mio Fiore Coffee.
Ardita shares how she and her husband turned their shared love of Italian food into a thriving local restaurant that’s become a Newbury institution. She talks about balancing life and business as a couple, learning from hospitality’s toughest years, and how instinct led them to expand into Hungerford and open their own coffee shop.
The conversation explores resilience, community, and the importance of staying true to your values — from sourcing quality ingredients to creating warm, welcoming spaces where everyone feels at home.
Mio Fiore NewburyMio Fiore CoffeeMio Fiore Hungerford
Discover more at https://www.miofiore.co.uk or follow https://www.instagram.com/miofiore_italian_/?hl=en
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona sit down with Fiona Chaillier, founder of Fitter Mother, to talk about fitness, nutrition, and the realities of motherhood.
Fiona shares how she went from charity event management to retraining in fitness while on maternity leave, creating a brand that helps mums reclaim their identity through movement, community, and food. She opens up about the challenges of running mum-and-baby classes, the myths around food and exercise, and why balance - not perfection - is key.
The conversation covers:
* Building mum-friendly fitness classes in Newbury
* Why food should be joy, not the enemy
* The link between nutrition, hormones, and life stages
* Fiona’s four-week trip around the world with her boys
* Collaborating with organisations like the Active Pregnancy Foundation
Whether you’re a new mum, a small business owner, or just someone juggling family and work, Fiona’s story is inspiring, practical, and very real.
Thanks for listening!
Find out more about Fitter Mother at https://fittermother.com
or over on Instagram: @fittermother
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
This episode is brought to you in association with Mio Fiore: Authentic Italian Restaurant. Find out more at https://www.miofiore.co.uk/
In this special episode of Kitchen Tales, the hosts put the spotlight on each other with a fun Q&A. From speedy suppers and family favourites to guilty pleasures, local restaurant picks, and even our biggest pet peeves — it’s time to get to know your hosts a little better!
We chat about comfort food vs summer salads, the best local pubs and restaurants, why supporting local butchers matters, and even share our verdict on a new M&S Japanese-inspired sandwich.
Join us for plenty of laughter, foodie talk, and behind-the-scenes insights into our lives outside of the kitchen.
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona welcome Rachel and Florence from Retreat Berks, the mother–daughter duo creating luxury wellness retreats for parents and their teens or tweens.
They share the story behind Retreat Berks, how their retreats combine wellbeing, creativity, and nutrition, and why these unique experiences help families strengthen their bonds away from the distractions of daily life. From mindful activities and local food to Florence’s role as “right-hand lady,” this conversation is full of inspiration for parents looking to reconnect with their children.
Discover how Retreat Berks supports family wellbeing, the importance of teaching kids to cook, and what goes into planning their signature spa days and weekend retreats across Berkshire.
You can find out more about Retreat at https://retreat.me.uk/
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
Colline and Rhona sit down with Damien Hutchins (Percy King Ltd)—a front-of-house pro turned trainer who levels up service at major venues (think racecourses, rugby, cricket tests, Hyde Park BST) and local spots alike. Damien shares how the “events circuit” works, why staffing quality dips at scale, and the hands-on training that actually sticks (mentoring managers, energising young teams, on-the-floor coaching).
We get into seasonal realities post-COVID, working with big caterers, building small-biz service culture, and treating hospitality like a performance—clear intent, great body language, memorable moments. Plus: dinner chat featuring aglio e olio, roast chicken, and curry goat.
You can find out more about Damien's work at Percy King Ltd at https://www.instagram.com/percykingltd
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
Colline and Rhona sit down with Catherine from Teddy Bears Bakes - the baker behind Compton’s beloved honesty cake cupboard. Catherine shares how a village idea became a thriving side business, from registering, inspections and Natasha’s Law labelling to pricing realities (hello, soaring chocolate costs), cameras for accountability, and community trust.
We talk best-sellers (millionaire’s shortbread, jammy dodger blondies, loaded brownies), freezer strategy for bake-ahead weeks, why she rotates menus, and plans for markets (Newbury Artisan Market) and future postals - plus her dream dessert van. It’s a joyful look at micro-hospitality, neurodivergent focus, and a village that shows up for great bakes.
You can find out about Teddy Bear's Bakes at https://www.instagram.com/teddy.bearsbakes?igsh=YzdzNjJpbjJ1b3R2
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona welcome Chrissy, the founder of House of Pinoy, to share her journey from Michelin-starred kitchens and luxury hotels to creating unique patisserie infused with Filipino heritage.
Chrissy opens up about her career working at prestigious establishments like Glen Eagles, The Lanesborough, and Michelin-star restaurants, before striking out on her own to build a patisserie business with a difference. She introduces flavours rarely seen in Newbury—like ube (purple yam)—and explains how she blends them into stunning pastries that challenge expectations while celebrating her roots.
The conversation also explores the challenges of starting a food business from home, balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship, and the importance of collaboration between local independents. Plus, we get into packaging struggles, flavour experimentation, and why she refuses to go back to piping with nozzles!
If you’re curious about how heritage, creativity, and technical skill come together in pastry—or just want to know what “marry me chicken” is—this episode is for you.
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, hosts Colline and Rhona sit down with Céline, founder of Cocolico, a 100% plant-based French pâtisserie based in Reading, Berkshire.Céline shares her journey from training as a nurse in Paris to following her passion for pastry, moving to the UK, and launching Cocolico in 2018. She explains how lactose intolerance led her towards vegan baking, why being niche makes a business stand out, and how her vegan creations—like macarons and éclairs—bring joy to customers who thought they’d never enjoy them again.Céline also talks about her markets, bespoke orders, vegan afternoon teas, and baking masterclasses, including her online vegan macaron course.You can find out more about Cocolico at https://www.cocolico.co.uk/You can follow Céline at https://www.instagram.com/cocolico.patisserie/You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.comYou can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecookStrategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.ukThis podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona catch up with long-time friends Colin and Katie Martin, former owners of The Globe pub in Newbury. They share the journey from leaving corporate jobs to running one of the town’s most beloved pubs, the highs and challenges of hospitality, and why they decided to step away. We hear how a chance petrol stop brought them to Newbury, what they’ve been up to since, and the exciting plans for their new venture, Parched — a friendly neighbourhood bar with top-quality craft beer, cocktails, and future street food vibes. Colin and Katie talk community, crowdfunding, and their vision for creating the perfect space to unwind.
You can find out how you can support Colin & Katie with their crowdfunder for Newbury's (soon to be) favourite neighbourhood bar at https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/parched
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona are joined by Emma Mulholland, an independent Thermomix advisor, to explore the kitchen gadget that’s transforming the way home cooks and caterers work. Emma shares her journey from a career in marketing to becoming a passionate advocate for Thermomix, revealing how the tool simplifies everything from risottos and curries to honeycomb and pastry dough.
They chat about:
* What makes the Thermomix more than just a blender
* Saving time (and tears!) on chopping, mixing, and stirring
* Adapting old family recipes using modern tech
* Helping clients with dietary needs like gluten and dairy-free cooking
* The flexible business model behind becoming a Thermomix advisor
Whether you’re a busy parent, chef, or foodie who wants to cook smarter, this episode has plenty to offer - plus some great dinner ideas to inspire your evening meal.
You can find out more about Emma and Thermomix by following at https://www.instagram.com/emma.inthemix/
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this latest episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona are back with stories from behind the kitchen door. They share their experiences catering chaotic events, laugh over past mishaps (including when the dogs ate the canapés?!?), and get honest about the invisible pressure of looking “put together” while working long days in hot kitchens.
They reflect on what people really want to eat at work, call for listener suggestions on creative corporate lunches, and dig into the balance (or lack of it) between food business life and self-care.
Expect laughs, lessons, and a lot of love for the community that’s grown around the show.
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this sizzling summer episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona welcome special guest Zee, a freelance chef and Colline’s partner, known for his calm under pressure and barbecue mastery.
Zee shares how he transitioned from marketing graduate to professional chef, cutting his teeth in grill houses and restaurant kitchens across Hertfordshire before moving into private catering. He opens up about the realities of cooking live for hundreds, why he prefers private events over restaurant service, and how staying calm and focused is the secret ingredient to success.
From planning a 400-person event to grilling perfectly tender short ribs, Zee explains why marinating meat matters, how to avoid BBQ disasters, and what it really takes to work under heat—literally and figuratively. Plus, the trio chat Aga fails, coriander love/hate, and the unexpected joy of a weeknight roast.
If you’ve ever wondered what it's really like behind the grill at your favourite summer party—or if you're thinking of turning your kitchen skills into a business—this one’s for you.
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona are joined by Alice Britton, founder of Nourishing Noshed – a local favourite for beautifully made, no-bake gluten-free and vegan treats. Alice shares how her passion for yoga, nutrition, and homemade sweets turned into a thriving business.
From her first batch gifted to a yoga teacher, to stocking local cafés and creating fan-favourite treats like her “Billionaire Bites” and “Snicker Dates,” Alice opens up about the creativity, trial-and-error, and community support behind her success. Tune in for honest conversation, behind-the-scenes stories, and a sweet reminder of how good food brings people together.
You can find out more about Alice's work at https://www.instagram.com/nourishingly_noshed/
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this deliciously insightful episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona are joined by Sasi Krishnan of Sasi Samyal, an expert in authentic South Indian cooking. Sasi shares her culinary journey from Chennai to Newbury and challenges the common misconception that all Indian food is simply “curry.” Her passion for food is rooted not only in tradition but also in a holistic approach that incorporates fresh ingredients, energy, and intention in the kitchen.
Together, they explore the importance of breakfast, how switching from tinned to dried chickpeas transformed Colline’s cooking, and why cooking is about more than just feeding—it’s about connecting. Sasi reveals the joy and versatility behind dishes like dosa and biryani, why rice flakes (poha) are a game-changer for health-conscious eaters, and how her online classes make South Indian cooking accessible to anyone, anywhere.As always, the episode ends with what each of them is making for dinner—from masala dosa to Thai green curry to a speedy midweek stir-fry.
You can follow Sasi at https://www.instagram.com/sasisamyal
Whether you're looking for inspiration in the kitchen or want to learn about the deeper meaning behind the meals, this episode is one to savour.
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona are joined by nutritional therapist Edwina Darke to talk all things gut health, holistic approaches to food, and why what we eat really does impact how we feel. From turmeric lattes and perimenopause symptoms to feeding growing teens and decoding modern food trends, it’s a warm and fascinating conversation that blends science with everyday kitchen chaos. Plus: pistachio toothpaste, summer picnics, and some seriously good salad inspiration.
Follow Edwina or learn more at edwinadarkenutrition.co.uk
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.instagram.com/june.content.studio/
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk