Episode Summary
In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Cassie welcomes Katy Moses, founder and Managing Director of KAM, the leading insight consultancy in UK hospitality. From childhood memories of Chiquitos and fizzy drinks to launching a data-led business that’s shaping the future of pubs and restaurants, Katy shares her journey with honesty and humour.
They explore the emotional power of hospitality, why pubs remain the heart of the community, and how insight—not just instinct—drives better decisions. Katy also talks about KAM’s origins, how the pandemic transformed the industry, and what she believes the future of hospitality—and the pub—is really about.
Expect stories, laughter, and a dose of proper industry truth.
Katy’s early love of hospitality and first memories of eating out
Why research and insight are essential in modern hospitality
Pubs as places of belonging, choice, and community
The impact of COVID-19 on the sector—and how it accelerated progress
How KAM started (thanks to one determined client and Companies House)
Low and no alcohol trends: zebra striping, bookending, and guest expectations
Why listening to customers is more than just a “gut feeling”
The evolving identity of pubs—and why the best ones never forget their purpose
The future of hospitality: community, technology, and meaningful innovation
“The pub is like a microcosm of society—everyone matters as much as everyone else.” – Katy Moses
KAM Insight Website: www.kaminsight.com
Knowledge Hub (free insight, reports & webinars): Knowledge Hub
Email Katy: katy@kaminsight.com
Follow KAM on LinkedIn: KAM Insight
Join the Kith & Kin community: https://kithkinhospitality.co.uk/
LinkedIn: Cassie Davison
Topics CoveredQuote of the EpisodeLinks & ResourcesConnect with Cassie
Host: Cassie Davison
Guest: Bex Wilkins, Co-Founder of Makers of Hospitality
In this energising episode of the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, Cassie sits down with Bex Wilkins, co-founder of Makers of Hospitality and former Marketing Director at Peach Pubs. With a journey that started aged 13 washing pots and now sees her launching her second independent pub, Bex’s story is proof that the best operators are built, not born.
We talk about growing up in kitchens, falling in and out of love with the industry, and what it really takes to build a values-led hospitality business today. From corporate frustrations to freedom, Bex shares why she left a high-profile career to create something of her own—and how she’s doing it differently this time, with purpose, leadership, and the right people around her.
Whether you're a pub operator, future founder, or just love a great comeback story—this is for you.
00:01 – Meet Bex: From KP to co-founder of Makers of Hospitality
01:28 – Aged 13, pot washing in Bromsgrove (and now back again, with her own pub)
04:11 – Young people in pubs: why early work builds confidence and resilience
07:19 – Learning the value of work early—and the lessons that stay for life
10:14 – From reluctant manager to passionate marketer
12:56 – Life at Peach Pubs: learning, growing, and finding her voice
15:16 – Moving from operations to marketing leadership (without a degree)
18:42 – When the corporate dream doesn’t fit: knowing it’s time to leave
20:48 – Craving change, making the leap, and backing yourself
22:31 – The pub that sparked it all—and convincing her wife to join the journey
24:46 – Transforming a derelict building into a vibrant community pub
26:20 – The hard truth: not all independents survive, but the best still can
28:35 – Being proactive, staying competitive, and using social media well
30:24 – Adapting to change: lower alcohol, higher standards
33:08 – What makes a pub matter: it’s not the drink—it’s the feeling
35:21 – Inside the pub: quality-led, seasonal food and a warm welcome
37:37 – Fish on Fridays, Chianti on Saturdays: listening to what guests want
38:46 – No safety net: the reality of being your own boss
39:56 – Opening pub #2—and why tenancies made sense for their growth
41:23 – Building the team she never had: mentorship, equality, and fun
44:11 – Paying fairly, promoting internally, and creating a workplace people love
45:54 – Fortune favours the brave—and Bex is just getting started
Co-Founder – Makers of Hospitality
With over a decade at Peach Pubs and a passion for people-first business, Bex is on a mission to build beautiful, high-quality pubs where food, values, and leadership all matter. Alongside her wife and business partner, she’s creating spaces that feel good to visit—and even better to work in.
🔗 Follow Bex on LinkedIn
🌐 Visit Makers of Hospitality (add link when available)
At Kith & Kin, we believe hospitality is more than a business—it’s a calling. We tell the real stories behind independent hospitality with warmth, honesty, and a deep respect for the people who make it happen.
🌍 cassiedavison.co.uk
🔗 Connect with Cassie on LinkedIn
📲 Want to join the Kith & Kin WhatsApp community?
Message Cassie via LinkedIn or the website to request access.
Set High Standards – From menu design to team culture, Bex leads with quality and care.
Stand Out – Makers of Hospitality is carving out a niche in a crowded space—with values at the core.
Define Your Identity – From free-range menus to community connection, everything reflects a clear vision.
Build Loyalty – The team stays because they’re supported, developed, and respected.
Tell a Great Story – Bex’s journey is one of courage, growth, and rewriting the script.
This episode is a reminder that great businesses start with brave decisions—and the belief that it can be better.
🍻 From KP to co-founder: a story of guts, grit, and going your own way in hospitality.
Cassie Davison welcomes Jackie Moody McNamara—a hospitality lifer who’s gone from sleeping on pool tables as a child to shaping executive teams across sectors. Founder of Be Brilliant, Jackie now works as a coach and consultant for businesses and individuals, helping them unlock confidence, align with purpose, and build safe, thriving environments for growth.
Episode Summary
With a rich story that starts in Birmingham’s community pubs and stretches all the way to boardroom influence, Jackie brings warmth, wisdom, and hard-won perspective to this episode. She shares how being raised above pubs by Irish immigrant parents shaped her deep sense of hospitality and belonging, and how that lived experience still guides her coaching today.
We explore Jackie’s transition from pub manager to training lead, to executive director running 500 pubs—often as the only woman in the room—and how she learned to embrace her voice and values along the way. She and Cassie discuss motherhood, resilience, and how adversity and purpose often intertwine. Most powerfully, Jackie reflects on the work she does now: holding space for others, encouraging senior women to own their impact, and helping teams rediscover connection through storytelling.
If you’re passionate about people, purpose, and what it really takes to build a strong, values-led business—this one’s for you.
Key Discussion Points & Timestamps
00:28 – Meet Jackie: Founder of Be Brilliant and veteran of the hospitality industry
01:57 – Growing up in pubs: A family home full of warmth, community, and customers
03:12 – From stew for the regulars to Christmas dinners for the homeless—hospitality as heart
08:46 – Early work behind the bar, high standards, and falling into hospitality (and loving it)
10:05 – First pub at 18: A stand-in relief manager turned full-time career
11:25 – Learning by doing: Building empathy and adaptability from short-term pub placements
13:03 – Walking into someone else’s business—and learning how to lead with respect
14:24 – The unparalleled early career training hospitality provides young people
15:32 – Being the only woman in the room—and not letting it stop your rise
16:30 – Turned down for a pub because she was single—and how that opened new doors
17:29 – Imposter syndrome, quick progression, and learning to own your place at the table
24:38 – Four intense years: marriage, loss, motherhood, and managing a 500-site estate
26:41 – A bold choice: leaving a 21-year career for family time—and what came next
29:23 – Full circle: Watching your former team members rise—and being invited to work for them
32:55 – When values don’t align: Learning when to walk away
33:25 – Founding Be Brilliant: From accidental coach to strategic mentor
34:51 – Who Jackie works with: SMEs, senior women, and leadership teams across industries
36:36 – Coaching women to know their worth—and negotiate for it
38:19 – From pub kid to safe space creator: Why storytelling is everything in building connection
39:22 – The timeline exercise: How personal stories change team dynamics
42:08 – Sharing the hard stuff: Building true belonging through emotional connection
43:12 – Turning heartbreak and heaviness into purpose and progress
45:47 – The biggest change in hospitality: Losing pubs—but not losing hope
47:16 – Hospitality’s magic formula: Opportunity, growth, and real people-first careers
Connect with Jackie
🔗 Find Jackie on LinkedIn
🌐 Visit: bebrilliantcoaching.co.uk (or search "Be Brilliant Jackie Moody McNamara")
💬 Jackie works with individuals, teams and businesses—especially where people, purpose and leadership matter most.
Keep up with Kith & Kin
🌍 Visit: cassiedavison.co.uk
🔗 Connect with Cassie on LinkedIn
📲 Want to join the Kith & Kin WhatsApp community for hospitality?
Message Cassie via LinkedIn or the website to request access
This episode is a reminder that behind every confident leader is a story—and the courage to share it.
Cassie Davison sits down with Vic, founder and CEO of DataHawks, and a hospitality veteran with over three decades of hands-on experience—from pulling pints in her teens to leading brand strategy at national chains. With her unique blend of operational grit and marketing insight, Vic now helps hospitality businesses use their own customer data to drive real, measurable growth.
Episode Summary
What happens when someone who truly understands hospitality—on the floor, behind the bar, and in the boardroom—turns her focus to data? You get DataHawks. In this powerful episode, Vic shares her journey from 18-year-old pub manager to industry disruptor, explaining how hospitality brands can stop guessing and start growing by understanding their customers on a deeper level. Cassie and Vic dig into the disconnect between operations and marketing, why brands get stuck in “broadcast mode,” and how a smart, customer-first approach to data transforms loyalty and revenue. Plus, Vic opens up about building communities, letting go of burnout, and finding purpose again in hospitality.
It’s candid, bold, and packed with game-changing takeaways for operators, marketers, and founders alike.
Key Discussion Points & Timestamps
00:26 – Meet Vic: CEO of DataHawks, with 31 years in hospitality and a journey that started behind the bar
01:31 – Gifted a pub at 18: The fast-track chaos (and charm) of early hospitality careers
03:06 – Overpromoted and underprepared: Why the industry needs to support its young talent better
05:30 – Vertical drinking and Bacardi Breezers: A look back at wild ‘90s pub culture
06:15 – Learning to run a business at Revolution Soho: Numbers, accountability, and rapid growth
07:34 – Bridging the ops-marketing gap: Why flyers under the door don’t cut it
09:41 – Falling in love with branding: Freelancing, concept work, and making creative ideas operational
11:44 – What marketers should be doing: Knowing the customer, tracking the impact, and moving the dial
12:42 – The madness behind big brand decisions—and why “yummy mummies” isn’t a customer profile
18:54 – When data replaces anecdote: Real stories of insight vs. guesswork
20:53 – If you can make it work in Milton Keynes… Why regional sites reveal the real strength of a brand
22:27 – The inspiration: Tesco Clubcard and the power of customer insight
24:44 – Why loyalty isn’t about discounts—it’s about understanding your guests
27:22 – The birth of DataHawks: Turning overlooked data into tangible, trackable revenue
30:16 – From insight to action: Building ROI-focused customer journeys with purpose
33:36 – Why DataHawks doesn’t chase algorithms—they own the channel and message instead
36:11 – It's not just numbers: Data as the whisper in the ear of hospitality CRM
38:11 – What’s wrong with marketing today: Brands are broadcasting, not building relationships
40:23 – Loyalty is dead—long live connection: Reclaiming purpose in a high-pressure industry
44:23 – The pathway back to loyalty: Connection → engagement → trust
48:29 – For businesses just starting: Start collecting meaningful data, and act with intention
51:10 – Community as fuel: Vic’s WhatsApp group and passing the baton to Glenda
55:27 – Rediscovering purpose: What COVID taught us about collaboration and care in hospitality
Connect with Vic & DataHawks
📧 Explore services at: www.datahawks.co.uk
🔗 Say hello to Vic on LinkedIn
🗣 Want to learn how DataHawks can support your business? Reach out directly
Keep up with Kith & Kin
🌍 Visit: cassiedavison.co.uk
🔗 Connect with Cassie on LinkedIn
📲 Want to join the Kith & Kin WhatsApp community for hospitality? Message Cassie via LinkedIn or the website to request access
You don’t need more customers—you need stronger connections with the ones you already have. This episode is a masterclass in how to make that happen.
Cassie is joined by Glenda Barber, a South Wales native turned freelance marketing consultant, whose love for hospitality began as a child in her grandparents’ pub. From pulling pints and building community to now shaping brand narratives for some of the industry’s leading voices, Glenda brings a rare mix of heart, hustle, and marketing savvy.
Episode Summary
In this feel-good, insight-packed episode, Glenda shares her personal and professional journey through the hospitality world—from early service jobs to scaling national brands like Brains Brewery and Cosy Club, to launching a thriving freelance career supporting B2B hospitality powerhouses. She and Cassie dive into the emotional weight of hospitality spaces, how intuition fuels great marketing, and why returning to this industry felt like coming home. Glenda also reveals her role as the new host of one of the most active hospitality marketing communities in the UK—where ideas, support, and good chat flow daily. This episode is a celebration of everything hospitality does best: connect, uplift, and create unforgettable experiences.
Key Discussion Points & Timestamps
00:27 – Meet Glenda: Freelance marketing consultant with deep hospitality roots
01:54 – Cardiff memories: Ice cream floats and childhood impressions of service
03:12 – First jobs, lasting impact: How early shifts in a pub shaped her career
05:45 – Lifelong connections: The teams that helped define her sense of purpose
08:37 – Trying other industries: Why hospitality feels different—and better
11:29 – High growth at Loungers: Storytelling, speed, and serious ambition
13:49 – It starts with trust: How Cozy Club openings were grounded in local connection
14:18 – Freelancing after motherhood: Staying close to hospitality in new ways
15:28 – From WhatsApp to powerhouse network: Leading a 700-strong marketing community
18:56 – Sharing over secrecy: How the pandemic changed the industry’s mindset
21:02 – Championing B2B women in hospitality: Glenda’s inspiring client roster
23:26 – Translating front-of-house intuition into brand strategy
26:10 – Service that gives you goosebumps: Glenda’s experience at Six by Nico
28:38 – Bad service stories that stick: Why empathy and awareness matter
29:51 – The small things that change everything: Being present for your guests
30:26 – Want in on the community? How to join Glenda’s hospitality marketing group
Connect with Glenda
💼 Reach out to Glenda on LinkedIn
📱 Want to join the hospitality marketing group? Message her directly to be added
Stay Connected with Kith & Kin
🎧 Subscribe, rate & review the podcast
🌍 Learn more at https://www.cassiedavison.co.uk/
This episode is a love letter to hospitality—not just as a career path, but as a place where intuition, creativity, and connection come to life. Whether you're in marketing, operations, or dreaming up your next venture, Glenda’s story will remind you why this industry matters.
This week, Cassie is joined by Sorrel Ward, newly appointed Sales and Marketing Director at Wembley Arena, to explore her incredible career path in hospitality. From flipping burgers at 14 to running marketing for major hospitality brands, Sorrel’s story is a testament to the endless opportunities the industry provides.
She shares how hospitality shaped her skills, why she transitioned from front-of-house roles into marketing, and how relationships and networks have fueled her career growth. Now, as she steps into the world of large-scale events at Wembley, Sorrel reflects on why hospitality is more than just a stopgap—it’s a career full of possibility.
⏱ [00:08] – Welcome & introduction to Sorrel
⏱ [00:34] – A career-defining start: Flipping burgers at 14
⏱ [02:33] – From acting aspirations to finding a passion for hospitality
⏱ [05:02] – Working in Guernsey: The magic of seasonal hospitality
⏱ [07:38] – Travel & hospitality: From Cape Town to Australia
⏱ [12:26] – Climbing the ranks: From bar work to management training
⏱ [15:06] – Why hospitality is still misunderstood as a career path
⏱ [17:28] – Transitioning to training & management roles
⏱ [21:43] – Moving into marketing & the power of hospitality networks
⏱ [30:26] – The evolution of hospitality: Marketing in a changing landscape
⏱ [37:42] – The next big move: Starting at Wembley Arena
🔗 Connect with Sorrel on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sorrel-ward-24ab288/
🔗
🔗 Follow Kith & Kin for more hospitality insights:
This episode, Cassie is joined by Lorraine Copes, founder of Be Inclusive Hospitality, to discuss how she transitioned from a career in procurement and supply chain to leading a social enterprise dedicated to creating a more equitable hospitality industry.
With over 20 years of experience across pubs, contract catering, fine dining, and casual dining, Lorraine shares her personal journey, the challenges she faced in leadership, and why representation matters.
Through research, mentorship, and partnerships, Be Inclusive Hospitality is raising awareness and driving real action in the sector.
⏱ [00:01] – Welcome & introduction to Lorraine
⏱ [00:26] – From logistics to hospitality procurement: Lorraine’s career path
⏱ [03:07] – The creative side of problem-solving in supply chain & procurement
⏱ [06:45] – Why procurement is a key function for hospitality success
⏱ [11:35] – The shift from corporate hospitality to purpose-led business
⏱ [13:56] – Founding Be Inclusive Hospitality: The need for change in the industry
⏱ [16:19] – Research & reports: Uncovering barriers to progression in hospitality
⏱ [18:33] – Raising awareness vs. driving real action in businesses
⏱ [22:21] – Why education is essential to creating long-term inclusivity
⏱ [25:31] – How understanding people’s experiences creates stronger teams
⏱ [28:46] – How the industry is reacting & the future of inclusivity in hospitality
⏱ [30:53] – Where to find Be Inclusive Hospitality & access research
🔗 Learn more about Be Inclusive Hospitality: www.bihospitality.co.uk
🔗 Follow Lorraine on LinkedIn:
🔗 Follow Be Inclusive Hospitality on social media: [Instagram | LinkedIn ]
🔗 Follow Kith & Kin for more hospitality insights:
This episode, Cassie is joined by Emma, Senior Communications Manager at Heartwood Collection, to explore how a strong brand purpose can simplify business operations and generate high emotional engagement—both from customers and the team.
Emma shares her journey from corporate law to hospitality, revealing how Heartwood’s commitment to values-driven leadership, community focus, and internal growth has fueled its success. As an award-winning brand that continues to expand while maintaining deep local connections, Heartwood is proof that when people feel they belong, businesses thrive.
⏱ [00:01] – Welcome & introduction to Emma
⏱ [00:27] – Emma’s career shift: From law to a hospitality brand with purpose
⏱ [02:09] – Early experiences in hospitality & the emotional pull of the industry
⏱ [06:54] – Why Heartwood works: A brand built on values, not just transactions
⏱ [08:06] – Winning Sunday Times Best Place to Work – the power of a people-first culture
⏱ [09:40] – Simplifying success: How a clear brand purpose guides growth
⏱ [14:22] – High emotional engagement: Why customers & staff feel ownership of Heartwood pubs
⏱ [17:23] – Storytelling & hospitality: Connecting with guests through authenticity
⏱ [27:03] – Heartwood’s expansion strategy & balancing growth with community focus
⏱ [35:43] – Future plans: Sustaining success without losing the personal touch
🔗 Connect with Emma on LinkedIn:
🔗 Learn more about Heartwood Collection
Episode Summary
In this episode of Kith & Kin, host Cassie Davison sits down with Susan Zwinkels, Chief Marketing Officer at Kitch, to explore the evolving role of social media in hospitality.
Susan shares her journey from working in restaurants to leading a strategic social agency and reveals how hospitality brands can use social media to drive footfall, build loyalty, and stand out in a crowded industry.
From storytelling and customer engagement to avoiding common social media mistakes, this episode is packed with insights for hospitality businesses of all sizes.
Whether you're an independent operator or a large hospitality brand, this conversation will help you rethink how you approach social media.
[00:01] Introduction – Susan’s background in hospitality and how she transitioned into marketing
[02:42] The Power of Hospitality Experience – How working in kitchens and front-of-house shaped Susan’s marketing perspective
[06:26] Why People Skills Matter – How hospitality teaches adaptability, communication, and customer service
[12:40] The Digital Transformation – How hospitality brands have adapted to the rise of social media
[18:50] What Kitch Does – How Kitch supports hospitality brands with social media strategy, content, and campaigns
[21:53] Common Social Media Mistakes – What hospitality businesses get wrong with their social strategy
[25:35] The Power of Storytelling – Why emotional connections drive engagement on social media
[29:04] Why Social Media Shouldn’t Be an Afterthought – How to integrate social into your marketing strategy from day one
[32:54] Understanding TikTok & Gen Z – How social media is evolving and why TikTok is a game-changer
[35:56] Social Media Tips for Independents – How small hospitality businesses can maximize impact
[38:50] Data-Driven Social Strategies – Using analytics to improve performance and prove ROI
Download the ‘State of Social’ Report – Free benchmarking insights for hospitality brands: Visit Kitch’s Website
Follow Kitch on Instagram: @kitchsocial
Connect with Susan on LinkedIn: Susan Zwinkels
Email Kitch: info@kitch.com
If you found this conversation valuable, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review Kith & Kin on your favorite podcast platform.
And don’t forget to share it with other hospitality professionals who might find it useful.
Episode Summary
In this episode of Kith & Kin, host Cassie Davison sits down with Stefano Frigerio, co-founder of Champagne + Fromage, to discuss his journey from international marketing to pioneering a new way to enjoy champagne. Stefano shares how his brand is redefining champagne culture, making it an everyday luxury rather than just a drink for celebrations.
Stefano talks about how he and his wife, champagne expert Maud Frigerio, built a business that showcases grower champagnes paired with artisan cheeses, creating a unique experience for customers. He also dives into how franchising and pub partnerships are helping expand their brand beyond London and across the UK.
For hospitality entrepreneurs, restaurant owners, and anyone passionate about food and drink, this episode explores how branding, partnerships, and customer experience can help create a standout business in a competitive industry.
[00:01] Introduction – Stefano’s background in international marketing and his move into hospitality
[03:10] Rethinking Champagne Culture – Why champagne should be an everyday drink, not just for celebrations
[05:08] The Birth of Champagne + Fromage – How Stefano and Maud combined their passions to create the brand
[06:42] Overcoming Business Challenges – Navigating setbacks like COVID-19 and rebuilding the business
[08:46] Expanding Through Partnerships – How pubs are integrating Champagne + Fromage into their offerings
[13:57] The Franchise Model – Why franchising was the next step for growth and how it works
[19:24] Finding the Right Locations – Why market towns and spa towns are a perfect fit for the brand
[23:21] The Future of Champagne + Fromage – Expansion plans for France and Italy
[25:19] How to Get Involved – Partnership and franchise opportunities
Visit Champagne + Fromage locations in Covent Garden, Brixton, Greenwich, and Bath, with more locations opening soon.
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Kith & Kin on your favorite podcast platform.
Episode Summary
In this episode of Kith & Kin, host Cassie Davison sits down with Annica Wainwright, co-founder of Two Forks, to uncover the hidden power of menus in the hospitality industry. Annica shares how strategic menu design can increase sales, enhance customer experience, and boost brand loyalty. From her journey as a restaurant critic to helping hospitality businesses optimize their brand messaging, she provides valuable insights into menu psychology, customer behavior, and marketing strategies.
If you're a restaurant owner, café operator, or hospitality professional looking to attract more guests, improve customer retention, and increase profitability, this episode is packed with practical tips and industry insights to help you thrive.
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Kith & Kin on your favorite podcast platform.
Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast - Episode 30
Episode Title: Guest Gabrielle Goode, Freelance Hospitality Marketing Specialist with Cassie Davison
Guest: Gabrielle Goode, Freelance Hospitality Marketing Specialist
Host: Cassie Davison
Contact Details:LinkedIn - Gabrielle Goode
In this episode of the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, Cassie Davison welcomes Gabrielle Goode, a freelance marketing specialist who has worked with some of the biggest names in the hospitality industry, including The Ivy Collection, Caprice Holdings, and Langan's Brasserie. Gabrielle shares her journey from growing up in a hospitality family, falling in love with the industry, and transitioning from operations to marketing. They discuss the importance of storytelling, the impact of data-driven marketing, and the evolving challenges of attracting and retaining customers in a fast-changing industry.
Born into a family with a history of pub ownership in London.
Early experiences in hospitality fueled her passion for the industry.
Worked in cocktail bars in Nottingham during university, surrounded by industry professionals who continue to shape hospitality today.
Inspired by luxurious dining experiences at top London restaurants like Petrus and Alain Ducasse.
The emotional connection to hospitality and how it creates lasting memories.
The role of fine details in elevating guest experience, from service to ambiance.
Started in PR but realized her passion was in hospitality marketing.
Worked with Cirrus Inns, developing award-winning marketing campaigns.
Moved on to The Ivy Collection, where she spearheaded press-worthy campaigns and high-impact site launches.
The importance of knowing your customer base and brand identity.
How data, AI, and CRM systems play a crucial role in personalized marketing.
The difference between mass marketing and targeted luxury marketing strategies.
Navigating fast-changing customer expectations and trends.
The balance between digital marketing and real-life brand experiences.
Avoiding the "race to the bottom" in pricing strategies and instead creating value-driven customer loyalty.
Gabrielle’s transition into freelance hospitality marketing.
Working with diverse clients, from high-end rooftop bars in Dublin to the superyacht industry.
The challenges and rewards of running a marketing consultancy, including self-promotion and business strategy.
“The best restaurants don’t just serve food—they create experiences that stay with you for a lifetime.” – Gabrielle Goode
“Marketing is more than just social media; it’s about storytelling, brand positioning, and truly understanding your audience.” – Gabrielle Goode
“The customer hasn’t disappeared—they’re just more selective. It’s our job to make sure the experience is worth their investment.” – Cassie Davison
Connect with Gabrielle Goode on LinkedIn:LinkedIn Profile
Gabrielle’s Website:The Hospitality Marketer
Host: Cassie Davison:www.cassiedavison.co.uk
Don’t miss an episode of Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast! Subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Share this episode with hospitality professionals looking for fresh insights on marketing, customer engagement, and brand storytelling.
Thank you for listening!
Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast -
Guest: Ines Llerena del Blanco, Pricing Strategist at Pearson Ham Group
Host: Cassie Davison
In this episode of the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, Cassie Davison sits down with Ines Llerena del Blanco, a pricing strategist with 25 years of experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Ines shares her journey from working in restaurant operations to becoming a pricing consultant, helping businesses develop effective pricing strategies. She discusses the role of data in pricing decisions, the importance of customer insights, and how pricing impacts profitability in hospitality.
Inspired by childhood experiences at family friends' restaurants.
Studied Hotel & Restaurant Management in the US after receiving a scholarship.
Gained hands-on experience working in various hospitality roles, including Compass Group, Club Med, and Intercontinental Hotels.
Transitioned from operations into pricing consultancy after obtaining a Master’s degree from Cornell University.
Why Pricing Matters: Margins in hospitality are razor-thin, and pricing is crucial for profitability and sustainability.
Key Factors in Pricing Strategy: Understanding brand identity, customer expectations, and market conditions.
The Role of Data: Using transactional data to determine demand trends, optimal pricing, and customer purchasing behavior.
Technology's Influence: AI and data analytics are now accessible even to smaller businesses, helping them make informed pricing decisions.
Hospitality businesses must define their brand and understand their customer base to set effective prices.
Pricing strategies should align with customer expectations and perceived value.
Businesses can leverage AI and big data to refine their pricing models.
Pricing adjustments should be clearly communicated to both customers and staff.
Staff training is critical in handling customer feedback on pricing.
Poor communication can negatively impact customer perception and trust.
The industry has evolved, but long hours and operational demands remain significant challenges.
Women in leadership roles in hospitality are still underrepresented due to work-life balance challenges.
The industry fosters resilience, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills.
Hospitality careers are diverse, from front-line operations to data analytics, consulting, and strategy.
There are growing opportunities in pricing strategy, revenue management, and customer experience optimization.
The industry offers valuable skills that are transferable to other sectors.
“The only way to provide an amazing experience is by generating profits – training staff, using quality ingredients, and maintaining beautiful venues all require financial investment.” – Ines Llerena
“So much of pricing is about perception. How you communicate price changes can be just as important as the prices themselves.” – Ines Llerena
“This industry teaches resilience, adaptability, and teamwork. It prepares you for anything.” – Cassie Davison
Connect with Ines Llerena del Blanco on LinkedIn: LinkedIn - Ines Llerena del Blanco
Host: Cassie Davison:www.cassiedavison.co.uk
Don’t miss an episode of Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast!
Subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Share this episode with fellow hospitality professionals who are looking to refine their pricing strategies and enhance their business profitability.
Thank you for listening!
Host: Cassie Davison
Guest: Richard Dickson, Co-Founder of Play It Green
In this episode, Cassie welcomes Richard Dickson, co-founder of Play It Green, to share his journey of creating a business that drives real, impactful change. Richard discusses how his passion for conscious capitalism, sustainability, and community has evolved through his career, blending his expertise with a mission to help businesses—and hospitality in particular—reduce their environmental footprint and make a difference.
From his experiences in retail and working with global initiatives, Richard explains the importance of behavioral change, cultural shifts, and the role of nature repair as part of a holistic approach to sustainability.
Richard shares how Play It Green works seamlessly with hospitality businesses:
🎯 The Outcome: Happier teams, engaged customers, and a future-proofed, purpose-driven business.
🗣️ “Sustainability isn’t just about trees and carbon. It’s about culture, behavior, and people.”
🗣️ “When people feel valued and understood in a business, they perform better and stay longer.”
🌍 Website: playitgreen.com
📧 Email: richard@playitgreen.com
Play It Green makes it easy for hospitality businesses to embed sustainability, create impact, and connect with purpose—all while staying profitable.
📢 Want to learn more? Reach out to Richard or visit the Play It Green website for a seamless way to start your sustainability journey.
🎧 Listen to the Full Episode
Be inspired by Richard’s powerful story, his mission to support businesses and communities, and his passion for creating a sustainable future.
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More from Kith & Kin:
💡 Helping hospitality businesses connect with purpose and thrive
🎯 Real stories, real challenges, and real solutions from industry experts
🌟 Discover more at Kith & Kin Hospitality
Host: Cassie Davison
Guest: Sam Pentecost, Founder & Owner of The Alpine Pizza Co
Episode Summary
In this episode of The Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, Cassie sits down with Sam Pentecost, founder and owner of The Alpine Pizza Co, one of the leading pizza suppliers on the UK’s festival circuit. Sam’s journey takes us from construction sites to wedding catering and finally to some of the biggest festivals and events in the UK.
Sam shares how he transitioned from working in a demanding, high-pressure construction industry to building a thriving, complex hospitality business driven by his passion for food, people, and problem-solving. From logistics challenges to managing seasonal demand, Sam gives a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to succeed in mobile catering at scale.
Key Highlights
Sam’s Journey into Hospitality:
The Challenges of Large-Scale Mobile Catering:
Making Hospitality Sustainable Year-Round:
Business Growth & Lessons Learned:
Memorable Quote
"If money is your only driver, hospitality isn’t for you. You’ve got to love it. If I didn’t enjoy this, I wouldn’t do it – because hospitality is all about people, energy, and problem-solving." – Sam Pentecost
Connect with Sam Pentecost & Alpine Pizza Co
Host: Cassie Davison
Guest: Lauren McCormick, General Manager, Omi Bar, Leicester
Episode Summary
In this deeply inspiring episode of The Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, Cassie sits down with Lauren McCormick, General Manager at Omi Bar, Leicester, and finalist for General Manager of the Year at the Kith & Kin Hospitality Awards.
Lauren’s remarkable story takes her from living on the streets and in supported accommodation to building a thriving career in hospitality. She shares how the industry became her “real-life therapy,” providing purpose, belonging, and the opportunity to make a difference to others’ lives.
Key Highlights
From Survival to Success:
The Power of Hospitality:
Career Challenges & Lessons Learned:
Lauren’s Vision for the Future:
Memorable Quote
"Hospitality gave me a family when I didn’t have one. It’s not just a job – it’s a place where we can make someone’s day better, no matter what they’re going through." – Lauren McCormick
Connect with Lauren McCormick
📺 Watch the Full Episode on YouTube 🎥:
Watch here on the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast Channel
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🎙️ Kith & Kin Podcast: Stories from the Hospitality Industry
Host: Cassie Davison
Guest: David Hage, Co-Founder of the Secret Pub Company
In this episode, Cassie is joined by David Hage, one half of the dynamic duo behind the award-winning Secret Pub Company. David shares his 30-year journey through the hospitality industry, from his early days in health clubs and working for giants like David Lloyd and Nando's to co-founding a successful group of four premium gastro pubs across Nottinghamshire.
David’s story highlights the balance between big business discipline and independent creativity, revealing the hard work, tough decisions, and passion it takes to succeed in the ever-challenging hospitality industry.
🏆 From winning Licensee of the Year 2019 to navigating the turbulence of COVID-19, David discusses the highs and lows of running pubs, the importance of a great team, and his exciting plans for the future, including accommodation and diverse events.
Visit David and the team at their four award-winning Nottinghamshire pubs:
🔎 Find out more: Search for the Secret Pub Company on Google or visit their locations for a fantastic experience.
🎧 Listen to the Full Episode
Immerse yourself in David’s inspiring journey and discover what it really takes to create successful, customer-focused pubs.
📢 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network.
More from the Kith & Kin Podcast:
📍 Real stories from hospitality professionals
🎯 Insights, challenges, and opportunities in the industry
💡 Tips to thrive in hospitality
🎥 Visit Cassie’s YouTube Channel for more 👉 [Insert Link]
📝 Want to grow your hospitality business?
Check out Cassie’s Hospitality Made Easy Masterclass for strategies to connect with purpose, engage your team, and increase your profits.
Host: Cassie Davison
Guest: Jono Mayes, National Bartender Advocacy & Engagement Manager, Campari Group UK
Episode Summary
In this episode of The Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, Cassie reconnects with Jono Mayes after 15 years to hear his incredible journey through the hospitality industry. From early days in country pubs and cocktail bars to launching nightclubs and consulting internationally, Jono shares how his passion for drinks and hospitality shaped his career. Now with Campari Group UK, Jono leads bartender education and advocacy, helping shape the next generation of the industry.
Key Highlights
Jono’s Journey into Hospitality:
Building Experience & Skills:
The Changing Face of the Drinks Industry:
The Challenges & Rewards:
Advice for Finding Great Bars:
Memorable Quote
"What percentage of the price of a drink is just the liquid in the glass? It’s the whole experience that makes it special." – Jono Mayes
Connect with Jono Mayes:
About the Host
Cassie Davison is a hospitality industry expert and the creator of Kith & Kin Hospitality. With over 30 years of experience, she brings authentic stories, strategies, and insights to those who live and breathe hospitality.
Listen & Subscribe:
Let me know if you’d like tweaks or further refinements!
Here’s the updated About the Host section:
About the Host
Cassie Davison has over 30 years of experience setting up and running award-winning hospitality venues. Now, as a dedicated coach for independent hospitality business owners, she uses her expertise to help others navigate the challenges of the industry, develop clear strategies, and unlock growth opportunities. Through Kith & Kin Hospitality, Cassie champions collaboration, connection, and the stories that make the hospitality industry so special.
Guest: Frances Gillespie – Founder of Frances Gillespie HR Consultancy
Overview:
In this episode of the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, I chat with Frances Gillespie, a seasoned hospitality HR consultant with a passion for helping businesses build engaged, thriving teams. Frances shares her journey from working on the pub floor to heading HR for major pub groups, and how her love for people led her to create her own HR consultancy.
From managing complex employment law changes to empowering managers with tools for compassionate leadership, Frances highlights why HR is essential for building a positive culture, boosting retention, and driving hospitality businesses forward.
✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:
🗣 Key Quote:
"HR done well is about valuing your people, setting boundaries, and helping them thrive – because when your team feels valued, your business sings."
🎧 Where to listen:
📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/@CassieDavison-KithKin
🔗 Connect with Frances:
About the Host:
Cassie Davison brings over 30 years of award-winning experience in hospitality, including running AA Rosette restaurants, winning Entrepreneur of the Year, and being featured in the Which Good Food Guide and Visit England’s Best Pub. Through Kith & Kin, Cassie champions growth, community, and purpose in hospitality – helping businesses and leaders be the best they can be.
Show Notes:
Welcome to Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, where we bring you real stories from the hospitality industry. In this episode, Cassie Davison sits down with Gareth Hazard and Alex Munford, the dynamic duo behind WHY Hospitality, to discuss their journeys, the inspiration for their business, and their mission to bring hospitality back to its roots.
About the Podcast:
Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast explores the stories and lessons from those who live and breathe hospitality. Each episode dives into the challenges, triumphs, and purpose-driven journeys that define the industry.
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In This Episode:Key Topics:Memorable Quotes:Connect with Gareth & Alex:
