In this episode, Tim shines a spotlight on the unsung heroes of hospitality, the suppliers, service providers, and behind-the-scenes teams who keep the industry running. From the engineers fixing kitchen equipment before dawn to the linen companies, delivery drivers, and independent producers who make every guest experience possible, this episode explores the invisible backbone of hospitality, the network of people and businesses that make service seamless. Tim dives into the cha...

Send us a text We’re excited to announce the launch of our brand-new podcast alongside the official rollout of say86, the UK’s first B2B procurement platform built exclusively for the hospitality industry. In this special launch episode, we explore why nearly half of hospitality businesses are struggling with supply chain issues and how say86 provides a lifeline by connecting operators directly with suppliers and support services. Months in the making, say86 has been developed by...

Send us a text In this episode of The say86 Podcast, host Tim Mills is joined by Chef Franck Desplechin, a French-born executive chef, leadership coach, and founder of Incrementum, joining from Connecticut, USA. Franck’s story is one of passion, resilience, and transformation. From the pressure-filled kitchens of fine dining to leading teams of over sixty chefs by the age of twenty-nine, his career reflects both the artistry and intensity of hospitality at its highest level. Now, through Incr...

Send us a text In this episode of The say86 Podcast, host Tim Mills sits down with Chris Carter, Founder and CEO of Approyo, to explore the fascinating crossover between technology and hospitality. Chris shares how decades in enterprise tech shaped his approach to running his own bar, what hospitality can learn from digital transformation, and why data-driven thinking could redefine how operators run their businesses. From AI-powered management to human connection behind the bar, this is a co...

Send us a text In this episode, I explore why the UK’s casual dining sector is in such deep trouble and why mid-market restaurants are closing faster than pubs, quick-service brands, and even fine dining. We go back to the boom years of the 2010s, when chains like Jamie’s Italian, Byron, Prezzo, and Carluccio's were everywhere, and trace how over-expansion and high costs left them fragile. We’ll look at how COVID exposed the weaknesses in their business models, and how the current cost of liv...

Send us a text Artificial Intelligence is everywhere right now, but what does it really mean for hospitality? Is it just another buzzword, or can it genuinely help hotels, restaurants, pubs, and cafés deliver better experiences and run more efficiently? In this episode, I explore the reality behind the hype. From chatbots at hotel front desks to predictive ordering in kitchens, AI is already part of hospitality, but is it helping staff and operators, or taking away the human touch that makes ...

Send us a text In this special launch episode, I take you behind the scenes of Say86: what it is, why we built it, and how it’s set to change the way the hospitality industry connects. From the very first idea to the moment we realised “86” perfectly captured the urgency and decisiveness of hospitality life, this is the story of a platform born from experience, not just theory. Hospitality is a fast-paced, high-pressure environment where timing is everything. We know that, because we’ve lived...

Send us a text Welcome to From TikTok to Bookings — the podcast where the digital world meets the hospitality hustle. In an age where attention is currency, we’re breaking down how bars, restaurants, and venues are turning viral videos into real-life results. from increased footfall to fully booked Friday nights. Social media isn’t just about likes anymore, it’s about connection, conversion, and community. And if you’ve ever wondered how to cut through the noise, grow your brand, and actually...

Send us a text Welcome to the say86 podcast — where we spotlight the real opportunities and bold ideas shaping the future of hospitality. In this episode, we’re talking directly to Gen Z, the generation that’s redefining work, creativity, and purpose. Hospitality isn’t just a stopgap job anymore it’s a fast-moving, people-first industry full of global paths, personal growth, and space to thrive. Whether you’re front of house, behind the scenes, or dreaming of running your own place one day th...

Send us a text In this episode, I sit down with Vicky Glover from Appetite4Apprenticeships, a passionate advocate for people and progress in hospitality. We explore how apprenticeships are transforming the industry — not just as a pathway into work, but as a long-term solution for growth, retention, and career-building. Vicky shares how her team helps operators unlock the full potential of the Apprenticeship Levy, and why now is the time to invest in future talent. Whether you’re an operator,...

Send us a text Join us on this episode of the say86 Podcast as we sit down with Miller Prada, the acclaimed London-based chef who has worked alongside some of the industry’s biggest names, including Jason Atherton and Endo Kazutoshi. From his early days in professional kitchens to shaping the future of modern dining, Miller shares his insights on what it takes to thrive in the hospitality industry. We explore his experiences working across multiple cuisines, the precision of fine dining, and ...

Send us a text Welcome to the SAY86 Podcast, hosted by Tim Mills! In this third episode, we’re diving into a topic that’s more important than ever—Sustainability in Hospitality. But don’t worry, we’re keeping it light, practical, and easy to understand—no lectures, just real talk about how businesses can go green without going broke. We’ll explore why sustainability matters, bust some myths, and share real-world examples of restaurants, bars, and hotels making smart, eco-friendly choices. P...

Send us a text In this inspiring episode of Say86: Elevating Hospitality, on location at the Qatar International Food Festival, host Tim Mills sits down with Ryan Panchoo, the visionary Founder & CEO of Borough 22 doughnuts, at the Qatar International Food Festival, to discuss his journey in revolutionising the gluten-free and vegan doughnut market. Ryan shares the story behind Borough 22, from its humble beginnings in his home kitchen to becoming a beloved brand stocked by major retailer...

Send us a text In this episode of Say86: Elevating Hospitality, we explore the vital role that suppliers and support services play in the hospitality industry and how Say86 is transforming the way they connect with operators. We highlight how traditional supplier relationships often rely on word of mouth, cold calls, and slow sales cycles, making it difficult for suppliers to reach the right customers. Meanwhile, hospitality operators struggle to find reliable, high-quality suppliers without ...

Welcome to Say86: Elevating Hospitality, the podcast where we explore the innovations, insights, and solutions shaping the hospitality industry. In this debut episode, Say86 founder Tim Mills shares his personal journey—from growing up in restaurants and working in a Michelin Star kitchen in France to leading global hospitality operations in the USA. He reveals the inspiration behind Say86, a groundbreaking marketplace designed to simplify procurement for hospitality professionals.Discover ho...