Shows
Talking Trail - by Summit GearS3 Ep1 Andrea Comastri - Long Run To InclusionIn this first episode for 2026, Rob sits down with Andrea Comastri, CEO of Hotel Etico to discuss the upcoming Long Run To Inclusion.Join the event here: https://hoteletico.com.au/about-us/long-run-to-inclusion-2026/Apologies for the cacophony of white cockatoos who turned up for the interview.
2026-02-0335 min
Room for AllRoom For All - S2 E27 - The Long Run To Inclusion - Enrique SuanaThe Long Run to Inclusion: An Epic Journey for Disability AwarenessIn this episode of the 'Inclusion in Hospitality' podcast, hosts Andrea and Saraya kick off the new year with exciting updates and developments in their 2026 journey. They are joined by special guest Enrique Suana, a seasoned runner and community ambassador, to discuss the 'Long Run to Inclusion' initiative. The episode covers the expansion of Hotel Etico's operations and partnerships, the creation of new academies for people with disabilities, and the upcoming 400km run from Mount Victoria to Canberra aimed at raising awareness and funds...
2026-01-1845 minRoom for AllRoom For All S2 E26 - Live at the 2025 Social Traders Convene - Jane Marx (The Beautiful Bunch) and Ninna Larsen (ReGround)Creating Opportunity: Inclusive Employment in Hospitality & Social EnterprisesIn this episode of 'Room for All,' hosts Andrea Comastri, CEO of Hotel Etico, and Saraya O'Connell, COO, dive into inclusive employment practices for people with disabilities. They are joined by special guests Jane Marx from The Beautiful Bunch and Ninna Larsen from Reground. Jane shares insights on her social enterprise florist initiative that supports young women from refugee and migrant backgrounds, while Ninna discusses Reground's mission to divert coffee grounds from landfills...
2025-11-0243 minRoom for AllRoom For All S2 E25 - Live at the 2025 Social Traders Convene - Anthony and Jobe and McShane, Reboot AustraliaTransforming Lives: Inclusive Employment & Breaking Barriers with Reboot Australia | Room for All PodcastJoin hosts Andrea Comastri and Saraya O'Connell in this enlightening episode of 'Room for All' as they delve into the impactful work of Reboot Australia. Featuring special guests Anthony and Job McShane, Reboot Australia focuses on reintegrating formerly incarcerated individuals into society through meaningful employment. Discover the challenges, success stories, and innovative approaches that are transforming lives and fostering inclusion in the workplace. From understanding the stigma of incarceration to creating pathways for sustainable...
2025-11-0134 minRoom for AllRoom For All S2 E24 - Live at the 2025 Social Traders Convene - Jess Colgan, All Things EqualRoom for All: Inclusive Employment and Social Enterprise with Jess ColganWelcome to 'Room for All,' the podcast where we explore inclusive employment and the creation of opportunities for people with disabilities. Join hosts Andrea Comastri and Saraya O'Connell of Hotel Etico as they discuss breaking down workplace barriers, particularly in hospitality. This episode features Jess Colgan, CEO of All Things Equal and co-founder of Ginger Snap Patisserie, who shares insights into creating award wage employment for people with disabilities through her café a...
2025-10-1732 minRoom for AllRoom For All - S2 E23 - Live at the 2025 Social Enterprise Festival - Dr Cale Bain, UTSRoom for All: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive EmploymentJoin hosts Andrea Comastri and Saraya O'Connell in this episode of 'Room for All' This episode features a conversation with Dr. Cale Bain of UTS Center for Social Justice and Inclusion, who discusses the importance of inclusive community engagement and the impact of UTS programs like Shopfront and Soul. The discussion delves into social impact, breaking down barriers, and the value of real-world experience for students. Tune in to hear inspiring stories, best practices, and expert insights that champion e...
2025-10-1720 minRoom for AllRoom For All - S2 E22 - Live at 2025 Social Enterprise Festival - Vanessa Brettell, Stepping StoneCreating Opportunities: Vanessa Brettell on Empowering Refugee and Migrant WomenIn this episode of Room for All, we sit down with Vanessa Brettell, the co-founder and CEO of Stepping Stone Social Enterprise. Vanessa shares the mission of Stepping Stone, a work integration social enterprise in Canberra that provides employment and training to migrant and refugee women facing multiple barriers to employment. The initiative operates two cafes and a catering business, offering both long-term and transitional job pathways. Vanessa also discusses future plans for an urban farm and expanded catering services to...
2025-10-1618 minRoom for AllRoom For All - S2 E21 - Live at Social Traders Convene 2025 - James Gauci, CadentEthical AI and Social Impact: A Conversation with James Gauci | Room For All PodcastJoin us for an engaging episode of the Room For All Podcast, live from the Social Traders Convene in Melbourne! In this episode, host Andrea interviews James Gauci, founder and leader of Cadent, a responsible AI engineering and governance consultancy. James shares his experiences from Morton Bay, his journey in the tech industry, and the inspiration behind starting Cadent. Learn about the importance of ethical AI, the economic benefits of socially responsible technology, and the challenges faced by social enterprises. This episode is...
2025-10-1531 minRoom for AllRoom For All - S2 E20 - Live at the 2025 Social Enterprise Festival - Natascha ConsigliEmpowering Women with Criminal Records: Natascha Consigli on Barriers and Support ProgramsJoin us as we delve into an inspiring conversation with Natascha Consigli, the Employment and Training Program Coordinator at Success Works Partners. Natascha discusses the organization's mission to support women with criminal histories in finding meaningful and sustainable employment. With her own lived experience, Natascha sheds light on the unique challenges these women face, the critical support they need for reintegration, and the role educational programs play in empowering them. Learn about the importance of changing recruitment practices, the launch of a new social enterprise...
2025-10-1316 min
Podcasts from the studios of Radio 1RPHCanberra Disability Expo 2025 part 1/3Part 1/3 of a program from the Canberra Disability and Workability Expo. Includes interviews with: Suzanne Orr MLA, ACT Minister for Disability with Sarah Guise Nic Stuart, founder of AbilityNews and Emma Myers, Political and Disability reporter for Powerd Media Andrea Comastri, CEO and Founder, Hotel Etico Australia and JP, trainee, with Julia Dean
2025-09-2029 minPodcasts from the studios of Radio 1RPHInterview - Hotel Etico - Andrea Comastri and JPFrom the Canberra Disability And Workability Expo 2025. Hotel Etico is a social enterprise offering independence and hospitality training to people with disability. Julia Dean spoke to CEO and Founder Andrea Comastri and JP, a graduate trainee. https://hoteletico.com.au/
2025-09-2009 minRoom for AllRoom For All - S2 E19 - Live at the 2025 Social Enterprise Festival - Jemma TribeJoin us as we sit down with Jemma Tribe, chairperson of the Nowra Community Food Store, to explore how a small-town social enterprise is making a big impact! From humble beginnings to serving thousands each week, Jemma shares the challenges, triumphs, and community spirit that keep the doors open.00:00 – Introduction & Jemma’s background01:46 – What is the Nowra Community Food Store?03:11 – How the store operates & its unique model04:31 – The story of saving the store from closure06:31 – Where does the food come from?08:19 – Volunteers & running the store10:41 – Creating a welcoming, dig...
2025-09-0315 minRoom for AllRoom For All - S2 E18 - Live at the 2025 Social Enterprise Festival - Amanda Di MediciUnderstanding Money and Thriving with Amanda di Medici of YenomIn this insightful episode of Room For All, we sit down with Amanda di Medici, the founder of Yenom, a unique financial education platform. Amanda shares her personal journey with money management and how it inspired her to create Yenom. We dive into the importance of financial literacy, the services offered by Yenom, and the pressing need for financial education in workplaces. Amanda also discusses common financial pitfalls, the rise of financial influencers, and her vision for an independent accreditation program. Join us for a candid conversation...
2025-09-0219 minRoom for AllRoom For All - S2 E17 - Live at the 2025 Social Enterprise Festival - Weh YeohWeh Chats About Umbo's Impact in Regional AustraliaIn this episode of Room for All, the managing director and co-founder of Umbo, Wei, shares the story behind their social enterprise which focuses on providing essential Allied health services to people in regional Australia through telehealth. Weh discusses the origins of Umbo, its unique business model, and the challenges faced in a sector where long wait times and high costs are common. With 50% of their profit dedicated to subsidizing therapy costs, Umbo has made a significant impact by offering affordable services to...
2025-09-0215 minRoom for AllRoom For All - S2 E16 - Live at the 2025 Social Enterprise Festival - Nina GborNina Gbor: Championing Sustainable Fashion & Tackling Fast Fashion Waste | Room for All PodcastJoin us in this inspiring episode of the Room for All podcast as we welcome Nina Gbor, a passionate sustainable fashion educator, speaker, and researcher. Nina shares her journey from a vintage fashion enthusiast to becoming an advocate for sustainable fashion. Discover her work with Eco Styles, organizing large-scale clothes swaps, and founding Swap in the City, Australia's first no fast fashion clothes swap hub. Nina discusses the adverse impacts of fast fashion on...
2025-09-0219 minRoom for AllRoom For All - S2 E15 - Live at the 2025 Social Enterprise Festival - Kylie FlamentKylie Flament Discusses the Future of Social EnterpriseJoin Kylie Flament, CEO of the Social Enterprise Council of New South Wales and ACT (SECNA), as she talks about the importance of social enterprises, their growth, and impact. Kylie shares her journey, the challenges faced by social enterprises, and how SECNA is supporting and connecting these businesses to create a cleaner, greener, and kinder world. This episode also highlights the success and growth of the annual social enterprise festival, showcasing the passion and collaboration within the sector.00:00 Introduction and Greetings01:48 Event Excitement and...
2025-09-0119 minRoom for AllRoom For All - S2 E14 - Live at the 2025 Social Enterprise Festival - James Walters - MTC FutureReadyInclusive Employment and MTC Future Ready with James WaltersIn this episode of the Room for All Inclusion and Hospitality podcast, host interviews James Walters, GM of Strategic Growth at MTC Future Ready, a not-for-profit organization specializing in employment training and youth programs. James shares insights into MTC's recent achievements, including winning a new disability contract, and discusses their work in supporting culturally and linguistically diverse communities. He highlights the importance of holistic support through initiatives like the Participant Support Officer (PSO) role, which has positively impacted tens of thousands of people across Australia. James also touches...
2025-09-0113 minRoom for AllRoom For All - S2 E13 - Live at the 2025 Social Enterprise Festival - Patrick Manley - CercleInnovative Solutions for Reuse: Patrick Manley on the Mission of CercleIn this episode of Room for All, co-founder and CEO of Cercle, Patrick Manley, discusses the organization's efforts to reduce single-use food and drink packaging through a comprehensive reuse network. Patrick explains how Cercle provides fully managed services for reusable packaging, including collection and washing, while also emphasizing the social impact by employing marginalized communities. He touches on the challenges and potential growth areas for Cercle, such as integrating with high-density places like workplaces and airports. The discussion highlights the importance of...
2025-09-0118 minRoom for AllRoom For All - S2 E12 - Live at the 2025 Social Enterprise Festival - Shaheen from Ta'leem ConsultingEmpowering Inclusion: Shaheen's Journey with Ta'leem ConsultingWelcome to Room for All at the 2025 Social Enterprise Festival hosted by the Social Enterprise Council of NSW and ACT (SECNA) at UTS. In this episode, we sit down with Shaheen, the founder of Ta'leem Consulting, a social enterprise dedicated to elevating marginalized voices through inclusive and equitable learning programs. Shaheen shares her personal journey, experiences, and the motivation behind her mission for social equity. We delve into the importance of trauma-informed practices, co-designing initiatives with diverse communities, and the practical tools...
2025-09-0116 minRoom for AllRoom For All - S2 E11 - Stephanie LopesiThe Power of Inclusion: An Insider's Look at Hospitality with Stephanie LopesiIn this episode of the 'Room for All: The Inclusion in Hospitality Podcast,' join us as we welcome the incredible Stephanie Lopesi, Portfolio Director of Talent and Culture at the Accor Salter Brothers' Portfolio. Stephanie, fondly known as Steph, shares her professional journey and personal insights into the world of hospitality. Discover her passionate approach to promoting early promotions and inclusion within the industry, and learn about the successful partnerships with Hotel Etico that have made a profound...
2025-08-3157 minRoom for AllRoom for All - S2 E10 - Jenny CrosbieInnovations in Disability Employment: An Insightful Discussion with Dr. Jenny CrosbieJoin co-hosts Andrea Comastri and Saraya O'Connell from Hotel Etico as they welcome Dr. Jenny Crosbie, a principal industry fellow at the Centre for Social Impact at Swinburne University, to discuss the WISE (Work Integration Social Enterprises) model and the unique WISEability model. The conversation includes an in-depth look at social enterprises, the evolution and funding of supported employment in Australia, and the importance of bridging the employment gap for people with intellectual disabilities. The discussion also highlights...
2025-06-2257 minRoom for AllRoom For All - S2E9 - Quinn JonesQuinn's Inspirational Journey: From Trainee to Accomplished ChefIn a special episode of 'Room For All,' hosts Andrea Comastri and Saraya O'Connell celebrate Andrea's birthday with an extraordinary guest, Quinn Jones. Quinn, one of the original trainees from the first intake back in 2021, shares his inspiring journey from a shy, reserved individual to a confident apprentice chef at the Fairmont. The episode delves into Quinn's unique upbringing by activist parents, his struggles and successes in various roles at Hotel Etico, and his ambitious goals, including...
2025-05-171h 15Room for AllRoom for All - S1 E8 - Nathalie Kasselis, Hotel Etico Training ManagerTraining for Inclusion: Interview with Hotel Etico's Training ManagerIn this episode of Room for All, hosts Andrea Comastri and Saraya O'Connell welcome special guest Nathalie Kasselis, the Training Manager at Hotel Etico. They discuss Nathalie's personal background, her passion for fitness, nature, and poetry, and her professional journey from finance to training. The conversation delves deep into the individualized training methods developed by Nathalie, focusing on strength-based, practical, and accessible approaches for trainees with disabilities. They also cover the importance of employer adaptability, the role of visual aids...
2025-01-2440 minRoom for AllRoom for All - S1 E7 - Samantha CoxCustomer Service and Guest Experience - Featuring Samantha CoxIn this episode of 'Room for All,' Andrea Comastri and Saraya O'Connell, hosts from Australia's first social enterprise hotel, Hotel Etico, dive into the world of inclusive employment. They discuss the importance of creating opportunities for people with disabilities, particularly in customer-facing roles within the hospitality industry. Joined by Samantha Cox, former EA to Sir Richard Branson and founder of Samantha Cox International, they explore leadership, guest experience, and the impactful training provided at Hotel Etico. Through...
2025-01-1553 minRoom for AllRoom for All - S1 E6 - Sally McGeoch, Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISE)Exploring Social Enterprise with Sally McGeoch - Inclusion in Hospitality PodcastJoin hosts Andrea Comastri and Saraya O'Connell on the Room for All - Inclusion in Hospitality podcast as they welcome special guest Sally McGeoch. In this episode, Sally shares her inspiring journey from growing up in a family business committed to inclusive employment to becoming a Senior Advisor at Westpac Foundation. Learn about her work supporting social enterprises, including her involvement with the Bread and Butter Project and her ongoing PhD research on collaboration and scale in the sector. Discover the impactful initiatives of the Westpac...
2024-12-2859 minRoom for AllRoom for All - S1 E5 - Mariella Cuttonaro and Program ElevateWelcome to Room for All! Join hosts Saraya O'Connell and Andrea Comastri as they discuss Hotel Etico's innovative Program Elevate with guest Mariella Cuttonaro. This initiative focuses on transitioning individuals with disabilities from supported employment to open employment in the hospitality and tourism sectors. Learn about Mariella's extensive experience in the field, the genesis of the program, challenges faced, and the positive impact of inclusive hiring. The episode delves into the specifics of Program Elevate, its phases, and goals, providing invaluable insights for employers and disability employment services. Stay...
2024-12-1445 minRoom for AllRoom for All - S1 E4 - Scott Bear, a young leader's perspectiveCreating Inclusive Employment: Hotel Etico's Journey with Scott BearIn this episode of 'Room for All,' hosts Andrea Comastri and Saraya O'Connell delve into inclusive employment for people with disabilities, featuring Scott Bear, General Manager of Mercure Sydney Manly Warringah. They discuss the success of Hotel Etico, a social enterprise providing career opportunities in hospitality, and highlight Scott's passion for inclusion influenced by his upbringing and experiences. Scott shares insights on starting the Young Hotel Leaders group, his professional journey, and the cultural shifts in...
2024-11-3049 minRoom for AllRoom for All - S1 E3 - Wine and Whining - Reflecting on Podcasts, Leadership, and Overcoming FearsIn this reflective episode of 'Room for All,' hosts Andrea Comastri and Saraya O'Connell discuss their journey with the podcast, personal challenges, and their mission for inclusion in the hospitality industry. They delve into their demanding schedules, touching on personal life pressures, leadership struggles, and the importance of self-care. The episode includes light-hearted moments, such as planning a wine tasting, celebrating small wins, and recounting humorous interactions with guests. Andrea and Saraya also announce upcoming episodes and fundraising challenges, including a nerve-wracking skywalk and a skydive. The conversation concludes with mutual...
2024-11-2152 minRoom for AllRoom for All - S1 E2 - Sophia Ballone, Hotel Etico’s Employment ManagerEmpowering Inclusive Careers in Hospitality: Insights and StrategiesIn this insightful episode of Room for All, hosts Andrea and Saraya engage in an enlightening discussion with Sofia Ballone, Employment Manager at Hotel Etico, about the importance of inclusive hiring practices in the hospitality industry. The episode delves into Sofia's background, her passion for human rights, and her commitment to aiding trainees with disabilities in securing meaningful employment. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of employment, tackling barriers such as staff shortages, immigration policies, and outdated recruitment processes. Emphasizing practical work experience and innovative recruitment strategies...
2024-11-1649 min
Ma anche sì! Dentro e fuori la balbuzie11 - Ma anche sì! Balbuzie: stato dell'arte e bisogni inascoltati. Il ruolo delle istituzioni e della società civileQuesta undicesima puntata del podcast è davvero speciale poichè riprende le fila della Conferenza tenutasi presso il Senato della Repubblica dal titolo "Balbuzie: stato dell'arte e bisogni inascoltati. Il ruolo delle istituzioni e della società civile."Chiara Comastri, che ha coordinato i lavori della conferenza, insieme al Professor Alberto Spalice (Dir. Neurologia Pediatrica al Policlinico Umberto I Università "La Sapienza”, membro della Società Italiana di Pediatria) e ad Andrea Bassi (Direttore HR del Gruppo Credem) parleranno delle necessità e delle istanze da portare alle istituzioni riguardo alla balbuzie nelle aree della Sanità, dell’Istruzione e del Lavoro approfondendo gli interventi...
2024-11-1126 minRoom for AllRoom for All - S1 E1 - Tracylee Arestides, The founder’s storyEmpowering Through Hospitality: The Story of Hotel EticoThis episode of Room For All features hosts Andrea and Saraya O'Connell alongside guest Tracylee Arestides, delving into the inspiring journey of Hotel Etico. The conversation spans from Tracy's personal story as a mother of a child with Down Syndrome to the establishment of Hotel Etico, a pioneering initiative that trains and employs individuals with disabilities in the hospitality sector. It covers the key contributions of figures like Niccolo, Trevor Graham, and strategic partnerships with entities like the University of Technology and the Salteri family. The script...
2024-10-1847 minRoom for AllRoom for All - S1 E0 - Intro - Andrea Comastri and Saraya O'ConnellEmbracing Inclusion: The Journey and Mission of Hotel EticoIn this series, hosts Andrea Comastri and Saraya O'Connell introduce listeners to 'Room for All,' a podcast dedicated to sharing the mission and vision behind Hotel Etico, Australia's first not-for-profit social enterprise hotel. They explore the origins of Hotel Etico, its Italian roots, and how it serves as a pathway to independence for young adults with disabilities through employment and training programs. The hosts also delve into the broader objective of creating the most inclusive tourism and hospitality industry in the...
2024-10-1747 minRoom for AllIntroWelcome to Room for All, the podcast dedicated to exploring inclusive employment, particularly for people with disabilities. Hosted by Andrea Comastri and Saraya O'Connell from Hotel Etico, Australia’s first not-for-profit social enterprise hotel, this episode delves into breaking barriers in the workplace, with a focus on hospitality and customer-facing roles. Listeners will hear success stories, best practices, and interviews with industry leaders from various sectors, all sharing a commitment to inclusion. Perfect for business owners, inclusion advocates, and anyone interested in the future of work.00:00 Introduction to Room fo...
2024-10-1601 min
A Room with a View PodcastRoom 36 - Live From No Vacancy - Andrea ComastriThis is a very special chat with a wonderful human. Andrea Comastri talks all things Hotel Etico and inclusion. Thank you, Andrea. You are a wonderful partner doing great things, and we appreciate it.
https://hoteletico.com.au/
2024-09-1828 min
The Accommodation Show - Hospitality Success Series!Revolutionise the Hotel Industry: Join the Social Enterprise Movement with Andrea Comastri
This week, I am excited to delve into a topic that demonstrates the powerful role of social innovation in reshaping the hospitality industry. During my Employer of Choice tour with Destination NSW, I had the incredible opportunity to meet and work with the team from Hotel Etico. Learning about their journey and mission was truly inspiring, and I am thrilled to bring their CEO, Andrea Comastri, onto the show. It is a story you don't want to miss.
Andrea and I discuss how Hotel Etico not only supports the community by employing people with disabilities but also sets a...
2024-08-1139 min
Innovate for ImpactEp #111 - Andrea Comastri: How Hotel Etico are improving employment opportunities for people with disabilityIn this episode, Dan Bentley and Tracey Newman are joined by Andrea Comastri, the CEO and Co-Founder at Hotel Etico, Australia's first social enterprise hotel, based in the Blue Mountains that employs and trains young people with disability.Here is a taste of what Tracey, Dan and Andrea cover in the conversation: How Hotel Etico was created and how the idea was brought across from Italy to AustraliaA bit about how the hotel works with young people and how it assists them in gaining employment beyond the programHow Hotel Etico are changing p...
2023-10-2926 min
Impact Boom Podcast - Social Enterprise & DesignEpisode 290 (2021) Andrea Comastri On Addressing Employment Barriers Through Inclusive BusinessOn Episode 290 of Impact Boom, Andrea Comastri of Hotel Etico discusses incorporating inclusivity into the foundations of a for profit business and how impact minded individuals can create valuable and sustainable business propositions.
2021-12-0227 min
Cronache dalla Terra di MezzoIn memoria di J.R.R. Tolkien: analizziamo il nuovo libro "The Nature of Middle-earth" con GIANLUCA COMASTRINell'anniversario della morte del nostro amato professore, analizziamo il nuovo libro uscito oggi insieme all'esperto di lingue elfiche Gianluca Comastri. 48 anni senza Tolkien, grazie maestro!Un grazie ai miei Patrons:- Alessio Tassi - Federico De Andrea - Tempo - Federico Varano - Ghiandalf - Valerio Barbaking - Giacomo Luca - Penny - Astydan - Elia Zanichelli - DarioPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/cronacheterradimezzoKo-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cronachedallaterradimezzo0472Mail: cronacheterradimezzo@gmail.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/cronacheterradimezzo/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cronacheterradimezzo_pod/Potete ascoltare...
2021-09-021h 05