Belonging, Kindness & Connection: The Psychology Behind Exceptional Hospitality
The Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast
This week, I welcome the incredibly inspiring Dr. Samantha Worthington, a global expert in consumer psychology, peak performance, and organisational transformation. As I shiver through a minus 4° morning, Dr. Worthington joins from the sunny Sunshine Coast to share her insights into how clubs and hospitality venues can create exceptional service cultures. With experience working alongside top-tier business leaders and teams, Samantha dives deep into the psychology behind customer loyalty, personalised kindness, and authentic connection. In this engaging conversation, Samantha explains how...
info_outline
Why Authentic Hospitality Leaders Succeed
The Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast
What’s the #1 leadership trait that transforms teams? Authenticity... and in this episode Michelle reflects on three powerful interviews with hospitality CEOs - revealing how authenticity fuels vision, culture, and resilience. From strategic growth to community-first values and courageous leadership, this episode is your blueprint for real-world impact in the hospitality space. Are you leading with presence, values and purpose? Watch/listen now & elevate your leadership style.
info_outline
Succession, Service & Saying No: The Secrets Behind Mingara’s Growth
The Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast
In this week’s episode, I sit down with a true pillar of the registered club industry—Paul Barnett, CEO of Mingara Leisure Group and a leader whose legacy spans more than two decades of growth, innovation, and heart. From starting his career in government and liquor and gaming regulation to transforming a one-venue operation into a five-venue community powerhouse, Paul shares the behind-the-scenes journey of amalgamations, leadership lessons, and the strategic vision that has shaped Mingara into the thriving group it is today. His insights into building culture, retaining top talent, and...
info_outline
From Pouring Beers to CEO: A Journey of Opportunity & Vision
The Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast
In this heartfelt and insightful episode, I sit down with not only a highly respected CEO but also a dear friend of over 25 years – Glenn Cushion from Ingleburn RSL. From humble beginnings as a plumber saving for a house deposit to leading one of Sydney’s most community-driven clubs, Glenn shares his incredible journey through the registered club industry. We explore how a "second job" became a lifelong career and how opportunities, culture, and people have shaped his leadership style. His passion for the industry, especially the value of human connection, shines throughout our chat. Glenn...
info_outline
The Bank Robber’s Boy: Peter Norris on Breaking Cycles and Building Culture
The Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast
info_outline
Phone Call Secret: The 2025 Customer Service Hack
The Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast
Businesses in 2025 are flooded with digital noise—but what if standing out was as simple as picking up the phone or posting a handwritten note? In this solo episode, I’m going to take you behind the scenes of my recent speaking tour across Far North Queensland (FNQ), where I connected with 97 passionate small business owners. From Atherton to Port Douglas, I will share with you what’s really resonating with customers today—and spoiler alert, it’s not another email funnel. I dive into the power of warm calls, the charm of snail mail, and how getting back to basics can spark referrals,...
info_outline
From Backyard Dreams to Pet Care Queen
The Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, I sit down with Chenelle Conquest, founder of Paws & Whiskers, a Southern Highlands pet care business driven by purpose, heart, and a lifelong love for animals. From secretly hiding a stray dog in her backyard as a child to building a thriving business that provides pet sitting, dog walking, and genuine peace of mind, Chenelle shares her journey from passion to profession. Her story is one of dedication, resilience, and creating a business that truly stands out through trust and care. We chat about the challenges of growing a team in a values-led...
info_outline
The Power of Visual Storytelling in Hospitality and Beyond
The Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast
In this insightful episode, I sit down with Kat Lynn, an award-winning food and product photographer, branding strategist, and passionate advocate for regional communities. Kat shares her journey from capturing culinary delights to helping businesses tell their authentic stories through visual branding. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of storytelling in photography and how it can elevate a brand's presence in the market. Kat also delves into the challenges and triumphs of working with regional communities, emphasising the significance of connecting with local...
info_outline
The Power of Visual Storytelling in Hospitality and Beyond
The Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast
In this insightful episode, I sit down with Kat Lynn, an award-winning food and product photographer, branding strategist, and passionate advocate for regional communities. Kat shares her journey from capturing culinary delights to helping businesses tell their authentic stories through visual branding. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of storytelling in photography and how it can elevate a brand's presence in the market. Kat also delves into the challenges and triumphs of working with regional communities, emphasising the significance of connecting with local...
info_outline
RUOK? to WeCare365
The Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast
🎙️ In this powerful episode, I’m joined by mental health advocate and founding Board Member of R U OK?, Graeme Cowan. From his personal journey through severe depression to creating meaningful change in workplaces across the globe, Graeme shares the pivotal moments that shaped his mission to build resilience, connection, and care in high-performing teams. We explore how leaders can identify early signs of stress, foster psychological safety, and shift from burnout to balance with simple but powerful habits. 🎙️ Whether you're leading a hospitality venue, managing corporate...
info_outlineIn this episode, I sit down with Chris Tripoli, a hospitality industry veteran with over 45 years of experience as a concept developer, owner-operator, and restaurant consultant. Chris shares the key ingredients for building a successful restaurant, from the foundational elements of a winning concept to navigating industry challenges like rising costs and staff shortages. He also dives into his Tripoli 10 Commandments, including the 3 P’s, and why financial discipline is crucial for long-term sustainability.
With experience across the US, Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Middle East, Chris discusses global trends shaping the restaurant industry and how operators can adapt. As the host of Corner Booth Podcast, he reflects on the most inspiring lessons from his conversations with restaurant entrepreneurs.
Whether you're a first-time restaurant owner or an industry veteran, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you thrive. Tune in now! 🎧
Key Takeaways:
✅ A strong restaurant concept is built on consistency, adaptability, and financial discipline.
✅ Service is still a critical element, despite industry challenges—operators must find innovative ways to maintain high standards.
✅ Understanding the 3 P’s (People, Product, and Process) is essential for long-term sustainability.
✅ First-time entrepreneurs must prioritise budgeting, location strategy, and operational efficiency.
✅ Global trends such as digital transformation and experiential dining are shaping the industry.
🔗 Connect with Chris Tripoli:
- Corner Booth Podcast
- Website: https://www.christripoli.com
📢 Follow Us for More Hospitality Insights:
- Website: https://www.michellepascoe.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellepascoe/