Hydration is about more than just drinking water—it plays a key role in energy, focus, and overall well-being, especially in high-performance environments like professional kitchens.

In this episode of FYI, host Samantha Wakeham is joined by our three expert guests: George Kruis, former professional rugby player and co-founder of fourfive, Lizzie Fosket, Head of Nutrition at BaxterStorey and Stuart Aitken, our Regional Culinary Lead . Together, they explore the impact of hydration on workplace performance, the pitfalls of relying on caffeine and sugary drinks, and how small changes in hydration habits can make a big difference.

We also dive into fourfive's approach to natural hydration, drawing on George’s experience as a former elite athlete. Whether you're a chef in a high pressured kitchen, working in an office , or a pro athlete, this episode is packed with practical tips to keep you performing at your best. Tune in for expert insights, real life experiences, and actionable hydration tips!

S3: EP3: Powering Productivity with Hydration

Starting at a young age in hospitality, Louise Denton saw beyond the myths, recognising the opportunity that the industry can unlock to an exciting career ahead.

Fast forward to being the Regional Managing Director for the South West region, Louise shares her story as she climbed the ranks while taking valuable life lessons and learnings along the way, to ensure she is the leader she always aspired to be.

Listen to Louise's advice to her younger self, her experiences facing imposter syndrome and more. Hosted by Marketing Executive, Ellie Dover; the pair navigate their shared experiences. You won't want to miss this empowering episode in honour of International Women's Day.

S3: EP2: Empowered to Lead: Louise’s Rise in Hospitality

At BaxterStorey we’re BIG on apprenticeships. We don’t just offer them. We champion them!

In this latest episode, our host and Chartered Management Degree Apprentice, Harry Rickard sits down with none other than our CEO, Ronan Harte to talk about the defining moments, lessons learned, and challenges along the way. Ronan’s story started as a chef apprentice in Ireland, learning the ropes in fast-paced kitchens, cruise ships and several leadership roles before stepping up as Chief Executive. Now, he’s sharing the insights and game-changing advice he wishes he’d known when starting out.

Together, they dive into the realities of career progression, the importance of resilience, and what it really takes to put yourself out there to succeed. And because no conversation is complete without a little fun – stick around for the quick-fire ‘This or That’ round to get to know Ronan beyond the boardroom.

Tune in now!

S3:EP1: Apprentice to CEO: A podcast to my younger self

Join us as we explore Winter Wellbeing with Tom Oxley, founder of Bamboo Mental Health and a leading expert in workplace mental health. Tom shares practical advice for managing winter’s unique challenges, including financial pressures, grief, and addiction, offering strategies to support ourselves and others during this demanding season.

Jo Woodward also joins us from WOW (Ways of Wellbeing), BaxterStorey's wellbeing ERG, who bravely shares her personal experiences of loss during the holidays, and Andy Aston, Head of Chef Partnerships & Communities, who highlights the power of connection and community for mental health. Whether spending the season alone or surrounded by family, this episode provides actionable insights for navigating winter with resilience and care.

Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on future episodes, and check out the resources mentioned to access additional support.

Resources Mentioned:

 * Alcohol Concern [https://alcoholchange.org.uk/]: Support and resources for managing alcohol use.
 * A Christmas Against Poverty [https://trusselltrust.org/]: Help for those experiencing financial struggles.
 * Daddy Blackbird by Caroline Roodhouse: [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Daddy-Blackbird-surviving-thriving-suicide/dp/1399992279] A powerful true story of a family navigating life after losing a loved one to suicide
 * Resilient Grieving by Lucy Hone: [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Resilient-Grieving-Lucy-Hone/dp/1615193758]A guide to navigating grief and building strength.
 * Gabor Maté - In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: [https://drgabormate.com/book/in-the-realm-of-hungry-ghosts/]A deep dive into addiction and its roots.
 * The Easy Way to Stop Drinking by Allen Carr: [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stop-Drinking-Now-Allen-Carrs/dp/184837982X#:~:text=In%20Stop%20Drinking%20Now%2C%20Allen,escape%20from%20the%20alcohol%20trap.]A resource for overcoming alcohol addiction.
 * Money Saving Expert: [https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/] Supporting with your financials 
 * The Man Cave UK [https://www.themancaveuk.co.uk/]: A safe space for men to talk, seek support, and address mental health challenges.
 * My Black Dog [https://www.myblackdog.co/]: A peer-to-peer support service offering help for those struggling with their mental health.
 * The Burnt Chef Project [https://www.theburntchefproject.com/]: A movement tackling mental health stigma within the hospitality industry.
 * Kelly’s Cause [https://www.kellyscause.com/]: Mental health first aid training to support the hospitality industry.

Other Support:

 * Samaritans: Free, 24/7 support for anyone in distress. Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
 * CALM: Preventing male suicide with a helpline at 0800 58 58 58 and webchat available 5 PM–midnight.
 * Papyrus UK: Suicide prevention for young people via HOPELINEUK. Call 0800 068 41 41, text 07860 039967, or email pat@papyrus-uk.org.
 * Shout 85258: Free, 24/7 text support. Text SHOUT to 85258.
 * Rethink Mental Illness [https://www.rethink.org/]: Resources, advice, and support on mental health challenges.



S2:EP11: Winter Wellbeing with Tom Oxley & WoW

In honour of International Men's Day, we’re thrilled to present a special episode featuring chefs Chris Jarman, Chris Terry, and apprentice chef Louie Mcdonald, hosted by Andy Aston, our head of partnerships and community.

This heart-warming conversation shines a spotlight on the importance of positive role models and their  impact on young chefs. Together, we explore the intricacies of mentorship, debunk common misconceptions about life in the kitchen, and discuss why prioritising mental wellbeing is vital in the hospitality industry.

Join us as we dive into the stories, experiences, and advice from these talented chefs. Discover how mentorship and role models can shape careers and redefine the future of the culinary world.

Don’t miss this episode—tune in and celebrate International Men’s Day with us! Who knows? You might feel inspired to become a mentor yourself.

S2:EP10 International Men's Day: Positive Role Models 

In celebration of Black History Month 2024, we celebrate this year's theme Reclaiming Narratives, hosted by Forward—our first cross-brand ERG, dedicated to Fostering Opportunity, Respect, and Working Against Racial Discrimination. This special takeover episode is all about reclaiming and redefining Black narratives in the workplace, highlighting stories, insights, and experiences from remarkable professionals across our company.

Our inspiring panel includes Ebenezer Sogunro, Sean Campbell, Eljay Berryman, Carol Thomas, Natasha Draper-West, hosted by Kicia Bissette-Emanus, and Faisa Ahmed, who each share their journeys of embracing their identities, challenging stereotypes, and breaking new ground in hospitaity and the workplace.

Tune in to this powerful episode and celebrate Black History Month by reclaiming narratives with us!

S2EP9: BLACK HISTORY MONTH TAKEOVER - Reclaiming Narratives with Ebenezer Sogunro, Sean Campbell, Eljay Berryman, Carol Thomas, Natasha Draper-West  & Kicia Bissette-Emanus & Faisa Ahmed

In this special episode for Menopause Awareness Day, hosted by RISE and Women +, we tackle the vital topic of menopause in the workplace. Join host Sam Wakeham and our expert panel, featuring Lyndsey Oliver (Head of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at BaxterStorey), Lizzie Foskett (Head of Nutrition at BaxterStorey), and Melissa Tomsett (Head of Development at Kelly’s Cause), as they discuss the challenges, misconceptions, and practical solutions for supporting menopause in the workplace.

We'll explore the links between menopause and mental health, the importance of nutrition, and how to create a more inclusive environment at work. The panel shares real-life stories and expert advice to help colleagues and employers better understand and support those experiencing menopause.

Listen for actionable support on mental health first aid, peer support, and how dietary changes can help manage symptoms such as hot flushes, fatigue, and weight gain. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss, filled with insights to take back to your teams and businesses.

S2:EP8: MENOPAUSE UNWRAPPED: Empowering Wellness in the Workplace

To celebrate South Asian Heritage Month we’re joined by Rinku Dutt from Raastawala for this special Dive In episode. Hosted by Dive In co-chairs Alice Sinclar and Charlotte Rouse, we delve into the role that South Asian culture has played in shaping Britain’s identity, and the impact it has had on clothing, music language, and of course - food and beverage.

Rinku takes us through her journey of connecting with her Bengali roots, from growing up in the UK to living in India as an adult. We also speak about the variance in food across India, and the importance of championing regional cuisines rather than national.

So settle in and listen, we hope you enjoy this special South Asian Heritage Month episode!

S2:EP7: South Asian Heritage Month take over with  Rinku Dutt, co-founder of Raastawala

Our second episode of our Pride take-over with Shine is hosted once again by Sean Marcs (He/They) This episode focuses on the power of LGBTQIA+ Allyship and the critical role leaders play as allies both in and out of the workplace, not just during the PRIDE Season but every day.

Our host Sean is joined by Katherine Dixon (She/Her), LGBTQIA+ Ally and General Manager at BaxterStorey.

Together, they delve into active allyship, its profound impact on LGBTQIA+ people, and how you can better lead in allyship for all.

Tune in now and join the conversation!

Stonewall LGBTQ+ Allies Programme - Stonewall LGBTQ+ Allies Programme | Stonewall [https://www.stonewall.org.uk/workplace-training-events/lgbtq-allies-and-trans-allies-programmes/lgbtq-allies-programme#:~:text=By%20attending%20our%20Allies%20programme,Stonewall%2C%20our%20clients%20and%20partners]

Inclusive Employers - Inclusive Employers - experts in workplace inclusion [https://www.inclusiveemployers.co.uk/]

We Create Space - WE CREATE SPACE | Community, Platform & Consultancy [https://www.wecreatespace.co/]

S2:EP6: Leading through Active Allyship with  Katharine Dixon

We're excited to host a very special episode on our FYI podcast that focuses on the importance of creating an LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Culture and how we can achieve this, not just during PRIDE Month but every day.

Our host Sean Marcs is joined by Dan Stewart, Resourcing Manager and Matt Webb, Accounts Director and Chair of the Game Leadership Inclusion and Diversity group for England Rugby.

Together, we delve into the profound impact of inclusivity, shedding light on how its absence can deeply affect individuals, and the pivotal role that leadership and advocacy play in building LGBTQIA+ safe spaces.

Tune in now and join the conversation.



International Gay Rugby: 

https://www.therugbynetwork.com/sports/cf73994b-7785-457e-82f3-a0204abc9161?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2maWgpDIc4R6tZQJUwLctbH-BeVmuJOyjqN6zaAN7cuUqew6XANuYnuV8_aem_AaMxxv2idu2TJEbsKCG2vxXYfiWCbR-t-iuWIaQFwROHSr_mcNJ_LuY-3C74vzWYfWs5c115UzBIyY6uplKBzXIi

#PRIDEMonth #Inclusivity #Diversity #LGBTQIA #Podcast #Community #Support #Equality

S2:EP5: Creating an Inclusive Culture with Dan Stewart and Matt Webb.mp3

Get ready to satisfy your obsession for food and hospitality with "FYI: The BaxterStorey Podcast"! Hosted by the dynamic team at BaxterStorey, this podcast series is bursting with lively interviews, insightful discussions, and practical tips for all. This is not a one trick pony podcast, whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious foodie, each episode covers a different topic that allows you to Fuel Your Individuality.

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