Working in hospitality over Christmas can be one of the most rewarding — and most challenging — times of the year. Long hours, emotional pressure, exhaustion, family separation and high expectations all collide during the festive period.
In this extended Talking Hospitality Christmas Special, the hosts come together with friends of the show to have an open, honest conversation about what it really means to work through Christmas in hospitality. This episode blends humour and reflection with serious, practical discussion around mental health, wellbeing, sobriety, burnout and community support.
The conversation includes reflections on the year, standout moments from the season, and why changing the narrative around hospitality matters. We also hear from industry voices supporting vital causes, including the Hospitality Choir’s Christmas single Always Open at Christmas, which raises funds for Hospitality Action.
Crucially, this episode shares real, practical mental health support available over Christmas, including organisations that operate 24/7 for anyone who may be struggling during or after the festive rush.
This episode is for:
-Hospitality professionals working over Christmas
-Anyone feeling burnt out, overwhelmed or isolated
-Leaders and operators supporting teams through the festive period
-People choosing sobriety or alternative ways to celebrate
-Anyone who needs a reminder that support exists
In this episode, we cover:
-How hospitality professionals cope with working through Christmas
- Why mental health can dip after the festive rush ends
- Sobriety, self-care and celebrating without alcohol
- Practical coping tools for anxiety and panic during service
Mental Health Support Mentioned (24/7):
-Samaritans — call 116 123
-Shout — text 85258
-NHS 111 — press 2 for mental health services
You are not alone this Christmas — and you don’t have to get through it by yourself.
🎧 Talking Hospitality — honest conversations, real support, practical solutions.
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This is more than just a podcast — it's a platform for voices across the global hospitality industry. At Talking Hospitality, we bring together the people who live and breathe service — from hotel executives, restaurant owners, chefs, and marketers to educators, designers, and startup founders transforming the way we experience hospitality.
Each episode explores the real stories, strategies, and challenges behind the scenes of hospitality — from luxury hotels and fine dining to sustainable tourism, F&B innovation, and customer experience. Whether you’re a student just starting out or a seasoned professional looking for fresh inspiration, you'll find something here that speaks to your passion and purpose.
📌 What you can expect:
In-depth interviews with hospitality leaders and changemakers
Real talk about hotel operations, guest experience, and team culture
Insights into hospitality marketing, branding, and digital transformation
Discussions on sustainability, tech disruption, and industry trends
Career guidance, entrepreneurship journeys, and leadership lessons
We believe hospitality is not just an industry — it’s a mindset, a global community, and a force for connection. This channel is your space to learn, grow, and stay ahead in a fast-evolving world of service.
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