What does a podcast really do?
For Phil Street, host of Hospitality Meets, podcasting has been more than a creative outlet. It’s been a mental health buffer, a career catalyst, and an unexpected classroom for learning more about hospitality—and himself.
In this episode of Talking Hospitality, we dive into the magic of podcasting: how it gives people a voice, sparks change, and brings joy not just to listeners, but to the people making it.
“It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done.”
That’s how Phil described starting Hospitality Meets back in 2020. And not because it’s made him rich or famous—but because it’s kept him connected.
At a time when hospitality was in crisis, podcasting gave him something purposeful to do. A way to stay upbeat. A way to stay curious. A way to stay in the conversation.
And what started with a few mates and a mic is now over 160 episodes strong.
Podcasting as Positivity in Action
At its best, podcasting brings three things every hospitality professional needs:
✅ Connection – You hear stories you’d never normally hear. Not filtered through brand messaging—just real people, real voices.
✅ Reflection – Conversations make you think. About your own path, your choices, your work culture.
✅ Joy – The banter. The laughs. The absurd parmesan puck that vibrates. Podcasting brings the joy back into work stories.
In a sector that often feels “always on,” podcasting lets you hit pause and remember why you got into this industry in the first place.
It’s Not About Big Names—It’s About Big Truths
Phil’s podcast features industry leaders, sure. But the real stars? The everyday people doing incredible work—quietly, consistently, brilliantly.
“Some of the best episodes are from people who didn’t think they had a story to tell.”
This is what podcasting does so well: it brings out the unexpected, the heartfelt, the hilarious. It allows for long-form vulnerability in a world that’s often too busy for anything more than a 30-second video.
Why Hospitality Needs More Podcasts
Podcasting is the perfect medium for hospitality:
🎙 We’re natural storytellers – Whether you’re front-of-house or behind the scenes, you’re used to reading the room, setting the tone, and connecting with people. That’s all podcasting is.
🎙 It’s low cost, high value – You don’t need a studio or slick gear to get started. Just a good question and a real conversation.
🎙 It builds community – Whether you're interviewing colleagues, suppliers, or customers, you’re deepening relationships that go beyond the transactional.
🎙 It’s great for your wellbeing – Hosting a podcast gives you a reason to step back, reflect, and share the parts of your story that might otherwise stay buried.
Final Thoughts: Everyone Has a Voice—Podcasting Just Helps You Use It
Phil didn’t start Hospitality Meets with a business plan. He started it with a desire to connect. And in doing so, he’s built something that not only serves his own wellbeing—but uplifts the entire sector.
So, if you’ve been thinking about starting a hospitality podcast—do it.
Not because you’ve got all the answers. But because you’ve got a point of view. And someone out there probably needs to hear it.
🎧 Listen to the Full Episode
▶️ Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube
🔗 www.talkinghospitality.com/podcast
Further Listening & Links
Timothy R Andrews
Host & Founder
(Host, 2020– ) Timothy R. Andrews has spent over two decades in hospitality, beginning by collecting glasses in bars and steadily working his way up. After founding and leading a successful recruitment and training business for luxury, 4-star, and 5-star markets for 16 years, Timothy now serves as Head of Talent for Jumeirah Hotels London.
Beyond Jumeirah, Timothy hosts Talking Hospitality, a podcast known for its direct approach to industry issues and practical advice. Each episode tackles real challenges in hospitality today, with guest experts who offer solutions that can be put into action. Through Educating Hospitality, he also provides carefully selected industry-specific training courses that align with podcast topics, helping listeners stay up-to-date and gain practical skills.
Timothy’s work extends into community initiatives as well, including his impactful efforts to support Ukrainian refugees. From guiding them through the complexities of life in the UK to securing jobs, accommodations, and essential services, Timothy’s dedication reflects a belief that hospitality extends beyond the workplace.
Whether listeners want to stay updated on industry trends or learn what’s working in hospitality leadership, Talking Hospitality offers a fresh, entertaining perspective—and is Timothy’s way of giving back to the sector he cares deeply about.
The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of Timothy Andrews and do not reflect the opinions or positions of Jumeirah or any associated brands. Timothy Andrews is speaking in his persona… Read More
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