Shows
Oh For Food's SakeCan You Lead With Heart and Still Win? The Truth About Purpose in the Food Business With Andrew ThorntonThis week, we peel back the layers on what running a genuinely heartful business looks like in food and retail.We welcome Andrew Thornton, legendary for shaking up the industry and for always bringing his signature purposeful approach to everything from the shop floor to the boardroom. Andrew tells the story of his journey from his first job in a Dublin newsagent—serving the iconic Fergal Quinn—to launching a consulting company and eventually taking on supermarket ownership in the heart of North London.We talk about Andrew’s midlife crisis (where instead of buying a Pors...2025-06-1944 min
Oh For Food's SakeGen Z Is Redefining Work. Are You Ready?We kick off this episode by confronting a very familiar narrative: Why is everyone blaming Gen Z for “not wanting to work”? On Oh For Food’s Sake we refuse to let stereotypes go unchallenged. We ground the conversation in our blend of experience: decades in food manufacturing and retail, coaching, and plenty of mistake-covering confessions from the good old days. Together, we share what they see on the ground: Gen Z is anything but lazy; instead, they’re hungry (pun intended!) for jobs with purpose, value alignment, and workplaces that actually support their well-being.We hi...2025-06-1228 min
Oh For Food's SakeBuilt with Heart: The Story Behind Ramona’s Houmous and the Love That Powers ItEver wondered what goes into growing a food brand from a tiny home kitchen to supermarket shelves across the nation? Ramona Hazan tells all—chickpeas in the living room, rolling suitcases packed with houmous through Soho, and years of “no’s” from major retailers. We discuss her unique approach to new product development (hint: feed your friends, watch what disappears first), her experience transitioning from the stability of wholesale to the daunting world of retail, and why perseverance trumps any “overnight success” narrative.Amy and Lucy reminisce about their days developing dips and marvel at just...2025-06-0538 min
Oh For Food's SakePivoting Your Path: Transitioning Cross-Functionally in the Food IndustryWe kick off by acknowledging what so many of us feel: sometimes, your career just needs a shakeup. Lucy and Amy talk candidly about hearing from food industry professionals who want to move into different functions—especially product development—but feel unsure how to leap. Amy’s career story smashes the myth that jumping from function to function is a weakness. Quite the opposite—it brings unique perspectives and resilience that many employers are desperate to find (even if they don’t always know how to spot it).Our chat covers identifying what lights you up at work, the...2025-05-2922 min
Oh For Food's SakeThe GLP-1 Effect: How Weight Loss Drugs Are Reshaping the Food IndustryThis week, we unwrap our thoughts on the rapid rise of GLP-1 drugs and the ripple effect they’re having on the food industry. As these medications suppress appetite and cut down on the relentless mental chatter many people feel about food, what happens to the classic patterns of eating—and, by extension, to the businesses that rely on them?Lucy shares personal anecdotes about the sensory and habitual aspects of eating, above and beyond simple hunger. At the same time, Amy draws parallels to the emotional journey faced by those who’ve had gastric surgery. Toget...2025-05-2222 min
Oh For Food's SakeInside the Food Industry: The Hidden Role of a Product Development ConsultantIn this episode Lucy reveals how her 21 years in the food industry have shaped her approach to consultancy. She shares her passion for the process side of product development, highlighting how her expertise in stage gate processes and stakeholder engagement distinguishes her consultancy services from others. Throughout the episode, we discuss the key differences between interim roles and consultancy, emphasising the creative liberties and strategic advantages consultancy offers.A key theme is identifying and addressing business problems rather than rushing to implement presumed solutions.Both hosts stress the value of consultants in...2025-05-1527 min
Oh For Food's Sake200 Episodes Later – How This Podcast Changed UsThis episode isn’t just a look back—it’s an acknowledgement of the growth, grit, and guts it takes to show up week after week, and voice the truths of working in the food industry. We start by revisiting how Oh For Food’s Sake came to life, born out of a lockdown networking call and a shared desire to make sense of their own journeys in the industry. We recount the clueless early days, the process of finding their voices, and the systems (and occasional bloopers) that kept them going.The conversati...2025-05-0833 min
Oh For Food's SakeWhy No One is Coming to Save You—And How to Take Control of Your Food CareerIn this episode, we focus on a critical aspect of career development—owning your own growth. We begin by highlighting the necessity of taking personal responsibility for professional development. Reflecting on our experiences, we stress that waiting for employers to offer training opportunities can hold you back. Instead, we urge listeners to look beyond current roles and consider the long-term skills and knowledge required in an evolving food industry.We explore the idea that personal development isn't just about career advancement but also about enriching your entire life. We share inspiring stories of individuals who fou...2025-05-0125 min
Oh For Food's SakeHow to Actually Use LinkedIn to Succeed in the Food IndustryIn today's episode, we encourage food industry professionals to rethink their approach to LinkedIn. We acknowledge the reluctance many feel towards posting and engaging on the platform, aiming to dispel these fears. Lucy shares how she began using LinkedIn during her time in recruitment and how it has been pivotal for her business ventures. Amy discusses the importance of nurturing your LinkedIn presence, even when you're not actively searching for a new job. LinkedIn is a vital networking tool that enables you to stay informed about industry trends, regulations, and product laun...2025-04-2430 min
Oh For Food's SakeThe Truth About Health & Sustainability in Food: Why It’s So Hard to Get RightHealthy and sustainable product development is more challenging than ever, and in this episode, we break down the complexities faced by food professionals today. We begin by noting the fluctuating definitions of "health" and how these affect consumer expectations and product development. As we highlight, developing products that not only meet these expectations but also taste good is no easy feat.The conversation delves into a recent poll conducted by Lucy, revealing taste and consumer acceptance as top concerns, closely followed by ingredient costs—underscoring the intricate balance of consumer demands and financial pressures developers fac...2025-04-1729 min
Oh For Food's SakeSustainability in Food: The Tools You Need to Make a Real ImpactIn this engaging episode, we set the stage by highlighting the food industry's growing need for accessible and accurate lifecycle analysis tools. Together with our guests, we explore the journey started by Lucy's initial work on lifecycle projects and discuss the complexities of LCA processes, emphasising the transformation required to perform these at scale.Will Telford discusses the importance of providing chefs and product developers with the right tools to quickly assess the environmental impact of their products, using Point 74's Recipe Professor as an example. David Moore shares insights from Compleat Food Gr...2025-04-1052 min
Oh For Food's SakeBeyond the Hype: How to Make Trends Work for Your Food BusinessIn this engaging conversation, we dissect the concept of trends, distinguishing between short-lived fads and long-term shifts in consumer behaviour. We share historical examples like the cranberry craze initiated by Delia Smith and current trends like bubble tea, demonstrating how some ideas blossom into massive trends while others fizzle out. Mushroom products and edible packaging emerge as points of intrigue regarding their future in mainstream food markets.We also delve into the tools and techniques that can make trends less daunting and more beneficial. Lucy introduces the 5C's checklist (Consumer, Context, Cos...2025-04-0320 min
Oh For Food's SakeFrom Ideas to Impact: Why Creativity Separates Food Industry Leaders from the RestIn today's episode, we explore how creativity is more than just a natural gift; it involves preparation, incubation, and a strategic approach to ideation. They discuss how the food industry can sometimes overlook the importance of creativity due to daily pressures and offer solutions to integrate innovation strategically. Lucy shares her excitement about launching a new ideation course with fellow consultant Rachel Auty, exemplifying the power of collaboration in nurturing creative ideas. They stress psychological safety, cross-functional teamwork, and structured sessions to effectively distill and apply creative outputs.The episode also tou...2025-03-2725 min
Oh For Food's SakeStronger Teams, Smarter Business: The Power of Neurodiverse ThinkingThe conversation opens with us discussing our personal experiences with being diagnosed with ADHD, shedding light on the strengths and challenges that accompany neurodivergence. We acknowledge that neurodiversity goes beyond simple compliance with the Equality Act of 2010, focusing instead on creating environments where all employees can perform at their best. We share anecdotes illustrating how minor workplace adjustments can significantly improve employee satisfaction and output. We advocate for an empathetic and understanding workplace culture that values diverse thinking and reduces the pressure of masking.We stress the importance of recognising the unique needs of...2025-03-2031 min
Oh For Food's SakeThe Truth About Allergen Safety: Lessons from Microsearch Laboratories’ Danny FranklinWe chatted with Danny Franklin, returning guest and managing director at Microsearch Laboratories. Together we explore the importance of allergen management, spurred by high-profile cases in the UK, where contamination led to widespread recalls. Danny explains how food factories often react to major incidents rather than proactively prevent them, a mindset he aims to shift. We highlight the growth in allergen testing, driven by both increased awareness and regrettably, food fraud. The episode delves into the complexities of the supply chain, shedding light on potential contamination during farming and the necessity for stringent controls and te...2025-03-1340 min
Oh For Food's SakeThriving in the Food Industry: How Let Them Thinking Elevates Your CareerWe kick off this week’s episode by delving into Mel Robbins' "Let Them" theory, a technique that promotes managing challenging relationships by focusing on personal reactions and control, rather than trying to change others. With our combined decades of experience in the food industry, we present relatable anecdotes and professional insights, illustrating the daily struggles faced in the sector, like dealing with difficult colleagues or suppliers. The conversation weaves through practical applications of the theory in workplace scenarios such as managing persisting deadline issues or handling micromanaging bosses, emphasising the benefits of setting personal boun...2025-03-0627 min
Oh For Food's SakeOverwhelmed? Here’s How to Take Back Control with Simple Prioritisation HacksIn this episode, Lucy shares how a recent health scare forced her to take a step back and reassess what really matters. We get into the constant juggle between work and personal life, the challenges of staying focused on long-term goals, and how to stay true to your core values—even when life throws curveballs.We break down practical tools like the urgent vs. important matrix and time blocking—no fluff, just simple strategies to help you manage your time better. Plus, we get real about the everyday struggle of balancing family, work, and everything in between, espe...2025-02-2733 min
Oh For Food's SakeHow DISC Profiling Can Transform Your Food Industry Relationships and Your CareerIn this episode, we dive into DISC profiling—a powerful tool for understanding personal and team dynamics.Lucy shares her journey of self-discovery, reflecting on how her initial assumptions about her dominant traits were turned on their head, and how gaining clarity on her true preferences has completely changed the way she works.Amy breaks down the different DISC types and their relevance in food industry roles, exploring why certain personalities naturally gravitate towards specific job functions. We discuss how this insight can help you better understand colleagues, adapt your approach, and make day-to-day interactions fe...2025-02-2032 min
Oh For Food's SakeEnergy Is Everything: Mastering Boundaries for a Sustainable CareerIn this engaging episode, we start with the definitions and importance of establishing boundaries, particularly within the food industry where the pace never slows. We discuss the societal pressures and personal characteristics, like people-pleasing tendencies, that often lead to poor boundary-setting.Lucy opens up about her journey of not considering boundaries until just a few years ago, highlighting the impact this had on her mental health and family life and Amy brings in her experience of burnout and how being a boundary-less people-pleaser significantly contributed to it. They talk about how critical it is to re...2025-02-1335 min
Oh For Food's SakeThe Truth About Climbing the Career Ladder in Food Retail: Lessons from Cam RiggJoin us on Oh for Food’s Sake this week as Amy welcomes Cameron Rigg, the Lead Product Developer at Tesco and Co-founder of Flourish in Food Mentoring. We start with Cameron reminiscing about his early love for food and nutrition, ignited by his grandmother's baking and a remarkably supportive food technology teacher.Cameron walks us through his career trajectory, from a placement year at Pizza Hut, a significant stint at Co-op where he transitioned from development to buying, and finally his current role at Tesco. He opens up about his challenges, like the...2025-02-0647 min
Oh For Food's SakeExploring Everyday AI: Tips for Food Industry ProfessionalsIn this episode we both highlight the growing importance of AI in everyone’s daily routines, noting how it can save hours of work, particularly for freelancers and small business owners who manage multiple roles. We emphasise that while AI tools like ChatGPT are incredibly useful, it's crucial to understand their limitations and ensure the final output aligns with your own professional expertise.Our conversation then shifts to specific examples of how we use ChatGPT daily—from crafting assertive emails and generating presentation outlines to analysing data and planning LinkedIn posts. We also discus...2025-01-3027 min
Oh For Food's SakeFrom Self-Doubt to Self-Assurance: Leadership Tools for Women in Food with leadership coach, Nicky Foster Today on "Oh For Food's Sake," we welcome Nicky Foster to explore the complexities of confidence and leadership challenges in the food industry. Confidence, often hampered by imposter syndrome and self-doubt, can be nurtured through small, consistent actions that build competence and self-belief. Our discussion highlights the impact of gender socialisation, where societal expectations differ for girls and boys, often creating a bias when women appear more confident and assertive.Nicky shares her experiences from her retail career, including the trials of advocating for flexible working as a new parent and the profound personal growth fo...2025-01-2338 min
Oh For Food's SakeYou Can’t Do It Alone: The Power of Finding the Right MentorWe kick off the episode by dissecting the nuanced differences between coaching and mentoring. We explain that while coaches help individuals draw their own conclusions, mentors offer the benefit of their hindsight and experience. Drawing from our year-long journeys with Flourish in Food mentoring scheme, both hosts share personal anecdotes about the monumental shifts in their careers over the past year.Lucy opens up about her hesitations around seeking a mentor despite feeling the need for one, and how partnering with Flourish in Food opened the door to a transformative mentoring relationship with Charles Banks. S...2025-01-1622 min
Oh For Food's SakeEmpowering Food Developers: Inside IFST’s Innovation ToolkitSusan begins by sharing her the challenges she experienced with engaging in IFST as a student and early career professional engaging in IFST, which stemmed from geographical and time-related issues. Things took a turn when she transitioned into freelance consultancy, a shift that allowed her to get more deeply involved. Starting with the Midlands branch, she eventually took the lead in establishing the IFST Food Innovation Special Interest Group during the pandemic. This group created a much-needed space for product developers to collaborate, share ideas, and find support during a difficult time.The conversation moves to the...2025-01-0933 min
Oh For Food's SakeHow to manage January chaos in the food industryLucy welcomes listeners to the first episode of 2025, acknowledging the unique pressures and chaos that food industry professionals face in January. Together, Amy and Lucy share four practical strategies to help listeners prioritise their work, set boundaries, plan recovery time, and maintain connections with their support network.Throughout the episode, they touch on personal anecdotes and practical examples, making the advice relatable and easy to implement. We emphasise the importance of ruthless prioritisation, setting clear and communicable boundaries, planning both short micro breaks and longer recovery times, and staying connected with friends and me...2025-01-0217 min
Oh For Food's SakeBuilding a brand with purpose with Tor Hunt-Taylor from The CollectiveIn this episode, we’re joined by Tor Hunt Taylor, Marketing Director at The Collective, to explore the challenges and opportunities of driving sustainability in the food industry. Tor shares her thoughts on the importance of networking and transparency, emphasizing how platforms like B Corp are instrumental for staying informed on advancements and navigating policy changes. These connections have proven vital in The Collective’s ambitious mission to achieve carbon neutrality by 2025. She explains the company’s current reliance on carbon offsetting and their plans to transition to insetting through regenerative farming practices, particularly in dairy farming, where milk produc...2024-12-1941 min
Oh For Food's SakeHow was your year? 3 questions to reflect on 2024Lucy opens up about how working with coaches and mentors has been a game-changer, giving her the clarity and confidence to push forward in both life and business. She even shares a courageous journey through the small claims court process, which she found hugely empowering and a significant growth opportunity.Amy shares her own story of navigating a tricky client relationship, the freedom that comes with being your own boss, and why trusting your gut can save you a world of stress. Plus, we explore the highs, the lows, and how delegation became Amy’s superpower during a...2024-12-1229 min
Oh For Food's SakeTransformative Leadership in Sustainability: Fran Haycock's Journey at GreencoreIn our chat with Fran Haycock, we unravel how businesses are shifting their sustainability approaches to embrace transformation leadership roles. Fran explains the increasing need for CSOs to spearhead rapid transformation programs while balancing compliance elements. This dual focus often leads to structural changes within organisations, as seen in Greencore’s internal restructuring, which involved downsizing and decentralising sustainability efforts. A pivotal part of Greencore’s new strategy is the "plan ownership model," where leaders from different departments champion various sustainability topics with strong executive support. Despite initial resistance and the necessity for leader upskilling, this model has shown posi...2024-11-2835 min
Oh For Food's SakeBringing Food Manufacturing into the Digital Age with MezzeIn today's episode, we welcome Simon Bos, the visionary behind Mezze and Gravity Well. Simon, who has a deep understanding of both tech and food industries, discusses the pressing issue of technological inefficiencies in food manufacturing. He narrates the story of how Mezze was conceptualised during a collaboration with one of the UK's largest food manufacturers, which initially relied on a call centre in India for order management. By introducing a custom software solution, Mezze transformed the process, allowing customers to place and track orders online efficiently.Simon explains the function of an ERP (Enterprise R...2024-11-2131 min
Oh For Food's SakeEmbracing Leadership: How to Succeed and What to Avoid in Food Industry ManagementDuring the episode, we discuss the importance of embracing the role of a people manager once you transition into leadership. The shift from being task-focused to people-focused is pivotal. We share personal stories about how this shift has impacted us and the teams we’ve managedWe also touch upon the art of effective delegation. We open up about our struggles with perfectionism and how letting go of the 'doing' part was initially tough but ultimately beneficial and how delegation not only frees up your time but also fosters the growth of your team.In ad...2024-11-1422 min
Oh For Food's SakeTransforming Procurement: Streamlining Processes and Supplier Engagement with Michelle BaileyIn this insightful episode, we explore the evolving landscape of procurement within the food industry with our guest, Michelle Bailey. We kick off the episode discussing the pivotal role of streamlined procurement processes and the benefits of enabling employees to access product information group-wide, driving efficiency and reducing complexity. Lucy suggests an ambitious idea: an industry-wide global database of all ingredients and whilst the idea poses anti-competitive concerns, the potential benefits are intriguing.Michelle highlights the importance of creating category strategies within procurement, which enhance transparency about purchasing, supply chains, and supplier expertise. These strategies e...2024-11-0747 min
Oh For Food's SakeThe Future of Food: Sustainability in New Product DevelopmentIn this engaging episode, we explore how the food industry grapples with the dual challenges of sustainability and food production. The conversation begins with Lucy discussing her work with the Future Food Movement and how it has heightened her awareness of sustainable practices in NPD. We highlight that while packaging often steals the spotlight, the real impact is found in ingredient sourcing and production methods.We then lay out the startling realities of global population growth and the increasing food production demands, pointing out that our current agricultural practices are insufficient for meeting future needs without exacerbating...2024-10-3125 min
Oh For Food's SakeThe "Mmmake Your Mark" Initiative: Inspiring Careers in Food and DrinkAmie Burke of IGD introduces us to the " Mmmake Your Mark" campaign, an innovative effort aiming to bridge gaps in the food and drink industries labour force by encouraging professionals to share their career experiences. She highlights the toolkit available on the IGD website, offering practical resources for sharing stories online, particularly on LinkedIn and TikTok. Amie emphasises the importance of engaging younger audiences and showcases the campaign's collaborative success, notably through a viral "thunderclap" event, unifying industry players to tackle workforce challenges.Our second guest, Amie Brown, shares her multifaceted career path at Coca-Cola E...2024-10-2435 min
Oh For Food's SakeDealing with Difficult People in MeetingsIn this enlightening episode, we delve into common problematic personalities that can derail meetings, coining them as meeting saboteurs. We start by defining several classic saboteur archetypes, such as "the Dominator," "the Multitasker," "the Rambler," and more. Each type is dissected with care, exploring their typical behaviours and motivations.Our discussion includes practical tips for managing these individuals — from setting ground rules and using visual aids to having pre-meeting conversations and employing techniques like the "Elmo" (Everybody Let's Move On) method. We emphasise the importance of preparation and setting clear agendas to keep meetings on tra...2024-10-1720 min
Oh For Food's SakeReducing Food Waste: Kate Hall’s Freezer Strategies and Influencer InsightsWe open the episode with an introduction to our guest, Kate Hall from The Full Freezer method who is a passionate advocate for reducing household food waste through innovative freezer usage. As a seasoned author and influencer in sustainable living practices, Kate elaborates on her Full Freezer method that empowers individuals to better manage their meals using freezers as strategic tools.Kate explains how freezing acts as a 'pause button' for ingredients that may otherwise spoil if left unused. She introduces practical techniques such as chopping vegetables like peppers before storing them flat in bags—fac...2024-10-1048 min
Oh For Food's SakeStimulating Creativity: Techniques to Boost InnovationWelcome to another insightful episode of Oh for Foods Sake. Today, we're tackling the multifaceted nature of creativity in the food industry, inspired by Arne Dietrich’s quadrant model. Lucy introduces the model featuring four types: deliberate-cognitive, deliberate-emotional, spontaneous-cognitive, and spontaneous-emotional creativity.Amy explains that creativity is not limited to artists and musicians but can also be expressed through methodical problem-solving, like using a VLOOKUP in Excel. We illustrate deliberate-cognitive creativity through the example of developing a health-focused food product called "Supernatural’s." This type of creativity builds on existing knowledge and carefully iterates towards innov...2024-10-0322 min
Oh For Food's SakeFrom Anaphylaxis to Advocacy: Julianne Ponan on Allergy EducationThis week we are joined by Julianne Ponan, our special guest who is an allergy expert and the founder of Creative Nature.Julianne recounts her personal experiences with food allergies and we discuss a harrowing anaphylactic incident involving ex-Love Island star Jack Fowler due to miscommunication about food safety on a flight.The discussion transitions to the risks associated with peanuts and other allergen-containing products on airplanes. Julianne emphasises the need for airlines to adopt stringent measures to protect passengers with severe allergies. We also highlight positive steps taken by some airlines, such as Virgin A...2024-09-2631 min
Oh For Food's SakeThe Hidden Struggles of Food Product DevelopersIn this engaging and eye-opening episode, we begin by addressing the perception problem that plagues New Product Development (NPD) teams in the food industry. We stress the significance of the NPD role, which other departments often misunderstand and undervalue. We share our frustration over common misconceptions and the unseen effort that goes into creating successful food products.We talk about the delicate balancing act of cost versus quality. With the current economic climate, inflation, and supply chain issues, product developers face unprecedented pressure to maintain product standards while cutting costs. We shed light on...2024-09-1924 min
Oh For Food's SakeFrom Qualitative Insights to Quantitative Data: a Balanced Approach to Market ResearchThis episode explores the essence of market research within the food industry. We start by discussing how real-life context and the right methodologies are crucial in gaining accurate insights for decision-making. Jules highlights the limitations of relying solely on consumer feedback and stresses integrating this with practical, real-world contexts.Next, we delve into the future of market research, touching on technologies that enable continuous consumer engagement and natural response collection. We discuss the importance of understanding both qualitative and quantitative data and how their integration can provide a fuller picture for making informed decisions.We...2024-09-1248 min
Oh For Food's SakeFrom Nutritionist to Product Development Manager: Georgina Earing’s JourneyThis episode explores the holistic approach to project management in the food industry. Georgina Earing and Lucy Wager highlight the significance of stakeholder management, sharing their own experiences and strategies for overcoming barriers and keeping team members focused on project goals. Georgina also talks about her personal growth and the new skills she's developed in her role as a product development manager at Simply Lunch.Simply Lunch’s significant expansion, new working policies, and digital transformation efforts take centre stage. Georgina emphasises the importance of effective communication and engaging team members during these periods of change. Lucy un...2024-09-0536 min
Oh For Food's SakeSummer Rewind - Time ManagementThis episode is packed with actionable tips and strategies designed to help food industry professionals streamline their workflow and enhance productivity. With the industry's fast-paced environment and ever-growing demands, effective time management becomes pivotal to sustaining a rewarding and fulfilling career. Drawing from our personal experiences and expertise, we discuss how to prioritise tasks, the concept of time blocking, and ways to overcome procrastination.We begin by discussing the overwhelming nature of extensive to-do lists and provide insights into how breaking these lists into smaller, prioritised tasks can create a more manageable workflow. 2024-08-2919 min
Oh For Food's SakeSummer Rewind - Emotional IntelligenceIn this episode, we have an in-depth discussion about emotional intelligence and why it's becoming increasingly important in the food industry. The term Emotional Intelligence was first coined by Daniel Goleman in the 1990s and is defined as "the ability to understand, use, and manage your own emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, empathise with others, overcome challenges and defuse conflict." We talk about how people with high emotional intelligence tend to be better at their jobs than those with just a high IQ, because EQ enables you to understand and work wi...2024-08-2218 min
Oh For Food's SakeSummer Rewind - Why Your Mindset Matters At WorkIn this episode, we explore the concept of growth mindset and why it's so important in the food industry. We start by defining the difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset, and how they can impact our success and happiness at work. We share some personal examples of times when we've struggled with a fixed mindset, such as Amy’s aversion to competitive sports and Lucy's childhood disappointment with not being able to read and write immediately. We then discuss how a growth mindset is essential for thriving in the fast-paced and ever-changing worl...2024-08-1518 min
Oh For Food's SakeSummer Rewind - Letting Go Of PerfectionismIn this episode, we dive into the topic of perfectionism and how it can be both a blessing and a curse in our careers and businesses. We share our own experiences of striving for perfection and how it has sometimes held us back from taking risks and trying new things. We discuss how perfectionism can be a comfort zone and how it can prevent us from focusing on the things that really matter for our growth and development.We offer some practical tips for letting go of perfectionism, including starting small by letting go of l...2024-08-0816 min
Oh For Food's SakeKirsty Henshaw and April Dear live at Nourish your NetworkIn this episode of "Oh for Food Sake," we engage in a thought-provoking discussion with guests April Dear and Kirsty Henshaw about their experiences in the food industry. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, from the challenges of starting a business and dealing with personal setbacks to the importance of redefining success and finding happiness in both work and life.April and Kirsty share their inspiring journeys, highlighting the determination and resilience required to overcome obstacles and achieve success at a young age. We also delve into the challenges of balancing parenthood with d...2024-08-0144 min
Oh For Food's SakeEntrepreneurship and Resilience: Learning from Failures with Dave ChristieIn this week's episode we are joined by our special guest Dave Christie to discuss his multifaceted journey in the business world. We kick things off by talking about the different ways social support manifests for entrepreneurs, from Facebook groups to in-person meetups. Dave draws on personal anecdotes, including his mischievous school days, where he paid younger students to buy snacks from him, showcasing his early entrepreneurial spirit.We discuss Dave's business ventures, including his environmental tech company, Take on Goliath, and his coaching and mentoring roles. All these roles reflect Dave's commitment to...2024-07-2540 min
Oh For Food's SakeCreating High Performance TeamsThe episode begins with an insightful discussion on the long-term benefits of coaching—not just as a one-time intervention but as an essential part of cultivating a high-performing team culture. We elaborate on how integrating coaching into team practices can lead to significant improvements in communication, trust, and mutual respect among team members. High-performing teams are a central focus of the episode and we outline how recognising and respecting individual differences can drive collective success. We candidly discuss the challenges businesses may face in implementing these strategies but stress the importance of identifying and addressing areas for imp...2024-07-1832 min
Oh For Food's SakeWill Dickinson - From Kitchen to Corporate: hanging up the chef whitesWe delve into the critical topic of career transitions within the food industry. Starting by discussing the importance of staying connected to food, even as you might move away from hands-on kitchen roles. We point out the rapid pace of new product development and the pressure chefs face to innovate quickly, often without enough time for thorough research.Will provides an insider look at his career path, beginning as a chef, moving through Billington Foods, and finally landing the role of Head of R&D at Premier Foods. He talks about imposter syndrome, the lessons learned through...2024-07-1145 min
Oh For Food's SakeTackling the Talent Crisis: Nurturing Newcomers in the Food SectorWe begin the episode with a warm welcome, setting the stage for a discussion on how to effectively onboard new talent in the food industry. We address the talent crisis and the necessity of nurturing the available workforce. We share an anonymous story from a listener who faced isolation and lack of support during her placement year which leads into a broader conversation about the importance of structured onboarding processes, including clear role definitions, regular check-ins, and peer mentorship. We stress the value of creating a welcoming and supportive environment, especially for young professionals.Lucy recounts her...2024-07-0426 min
Oh For Food's SakeUltra-Processed Foods: Separating Fact from Fiction with a Registered NutritionistWe welcome Mel Wakeman to discuss the complexities around the healthism narrative and the controversial dialogue surrounding ultra-processed foods. We begin by exploring how society places the onus on individuals to manage their health solely through diet and exercise. Mel emphasises the importance of understanding everyone’s unique experiences and struggles with health and nutrition recommendations. Mel discusses her individualised approach to support based on lived experiences, arguing against broad generalisations about processed foods. She critiques a recent British Medical Journal study, pointing out its research limitations and the flawed classification system of ultra-processed foods. The...2024-06-2743 min
Oh For Food's SakeStreamlining Product Development with Stage Gate in the Food IndustryWe start by introducing the concept of the Stage Gate process and its relevance in the food industry. We explain it as a series of decision points (gates) where projects are evaluated before moving to the next stage. We then address common misconceptions, such as the belief that the Stage Gate process is a "sales prevention" structure, emphasising instead that it is a flexible framework adaptable to different business needs and projects.Our discussion moves on to the flexibility and implementation of the Stage Gate process, highlighting how it can be tailored to fit various project complexities...2024-06-2028 min
Oh For Food's SakeRecipe Development and Career Transitions with Laoise CaseyLaoise Casey's career story is a testament to the power of following one's gut and being persistent. Starting as an HR manager, she was spurred by her father's illness to reconsider her life's direction. After a year of reflection and budgeting, she enrolled at the Leiths School of Food and Wine in London to formalise her passion for cooking. Despite initial fears and uncertainty, she found immense joy and fulfilment in the culinary world.Laoise’s journey wasn't easy. She faced difficulties getting journalists to take her seriously, but her determination paid off when she landed a we...2024-06-1332 min
Oh For Food's SakeClear is Kind: The Importance of Honest Feedback at WorkIn today's episode, we tackle the often daunting task of giving honest feedback. We stress the importance of coupling care and empathy with directness to ensure input is both clear and kind. Amy introduces the concept of "Radical Candor," a methodology from Kim Scott's book, which emphasises caring deeply about colleagues while challenging them directly.We also share our personal experiences and challenges with giving feedback, including the common tendency to avoid confrontation due to people-pleasing instincts. To address these issues, we discuss practical feedback models, such as the AID model (Action, Impact, De...2024-06-0624 min
Oh For Food's SakeUltra processed Foods, a personal journey and what it means for the food industryDebbie Wallen shares her family’s transformative experience with an 80/20 diet emphasising whole foods. She highlights her detailed approach to meal planning and the positive changes, such as improved sleep and skin health. We have a healthy debate about and explore concerns around ‘ultra-processed foods' and the potential health impacts. Lucy talks about how feasible it is to completely avoid these foods in our modern, busy lives. We discuss tactical adjustments that can be made at home to improve dietary habits and influences within the food industry. The episode also features a discussion on the role of product developers, gove...2024-05-3048 min
Oh For Food's SakeFrom Idea to Launch: Mastering Project Management in Product DevelopmentIn today’s informative episode, we tackle the topic of project management for product developers. We explore how project management can often be daunting for many entering the field, emphasising that while core development skills are crucial, effective project management is also essential for successful product launches. We also discuss the benefits of using modern tools over traditional methods like Excel to improve efficiency and distribute workload among teams more effectively.Lucy shares her natural affinity for project management and suggests that while not everyone will share this inclination, understanding and handling the complexities of project management ar...2024-05-2321 min
Oh For Food's SakeRevolutionising Food Safety: How New Testing Technologies are Changing the IndustryIn this captivating discussion, Mario Hupfeld demystifies the sophisticated technology developed at Nemis Technologies, designed to detect live bacteria through light emission. Uncover how this method provides quicker results and why it's pivotal for food safety. The episode also unveils the highly anticipated collaboration and webinar with Bill Mauler, co-producer of "Poisoned: The Dirty Truth About Your Food," promising to be a game-changer in the industry, and shares insights into the necessity for continuous education within the food industry.We delve into the challenges and needs for advancing preventive measures in food production, underlining the s...2024-05-1633 min
Oh For Food's SakeBold Moves: Thriving Amidst Risk Aversion in Food Industry New Product DevelopmentIn this episode, we discuss overcoming the hurdles of risk aversion in the food industry, particularly relating to NPD. We kick off the episode by sharing personal anecdotes and insights from our extensive careers, emphasising the importance of empathy and understanding within various business departments to facilitate smoother product development and introduction. Lucy brings an interesting perspective with an example of a chicken tikka masala pasta product to discuss market strategies that can revive consumer interest and maintain business growth even in tough times. The episode also covers practical steps to engage stakeholders early in the NPD process and...2024-05-0925 min
Oh For Food's SakeWork Smarter, Not Harder: Leveraging the 80/20 Rule in Everyday LifeWe kick off this episode with insights from the 80/20 principle, drawing from Richard Koch's book. We discuss Amy’s initial misunderstandings and how a correct grasp has improved her work strategies, especially emphasising the use of Pareto Charts in business contexts. We also discuss Lucy’s practical experiences and individual adjustments toward applying the 80/20 rule. Together, we engage in a lively and educational back-and-forth that covers using the principle in team settings, personal productivity, and stress management.We discuss various personal adjustments and professional strategies that have profoundly impacted our effectiveness and satisfaction. Amy uses relatable anecdotes from...2024-05-0224 min
Oh For Food's SakeThe Big Leap: Holland & Barrett's Food Innovation Journey with Rachel ChattertonToday, we are thrilled to welcome Rachel Chatterton, a food industry trailblazer who has been pivotal in Holland & Barrett’s major transformation. Rachel shares her experiences at H and B, where she’s helped add quality years to life through sustainable and ethical sourcing of food products. She reveals how the company switched from a vitamin-heavy assortment to offering an expansive range of nutritious foods by cultivating a driven and dynamic food development team. Rachel also discusses her impressive career journey, from starting at Sainsbury's to opening Starbucks's reserve store in Milan. We delve into the personal strategies she empl...2024-04-2541 min
Oh For Food's SakeAutism in the Workplace: Charlie Jenkins' Story of Strength and AdaptationCharlie Jenkins joins us as we explore the significance of a safe space for neurodiverse employees in the food industry. Throughout the episode, Charlie recounts their personal experiences with autism, from the struggles of asking clarifying questions to finding a role that complements their unique abilities. We commend Charlie's self-discovery and applaud Asda's exemplary support for neurodiverse and disabled employees. We offer insights into the distinctions between common human behaviours and neurodiverse traits while acknowledging influencers' roles in raising autism awareness. An essential conversation revolves around accommodating flexible working and recognising productivity benefits when a wo...2024-04-1839 min
Oh For Food's SakeFinding Your Fit: Neurodiversity and the Job Market with Ellie VinceJoin us this week as we sit down with Ellie Vince to explore her journey with dyspraxia. After facing difficulties with tasks such as reading aloud and coordination, Ellie was diagnosed with dyspraxia, leading to the need for specialised equipment in her job. Ellie's initial hesitation in disclosing her condition at work transitions into impactful advocacy, demonstrating how employers can better understand and support employees like her.We discuss the statistics highlighting the prevalence and misunderstanding of dyspraxia among UK adults and stress the importance of inclusivity at the workplace through thoughtful accommodations. Furthermore, we dissect how...2024-04-1131 min
Oh For Food's SakeRethinking Normal: Celebrating Neurodiversity in the Food IndustryShow notes:Today on the Oh For Food’s Sake podcast, we welcome special guest Amy Polly to discuss the intersection of neurodiversity and the food industry. The conversation kicks off with Amy sharing her compelling personal story of discovering her ADHD and the path to self-compassion that followed. With a rich background in finance and mental health, Amy brings a unique perspective to the issue, emphasising the importance of raising awareness and valuing neurodiversity in professional settings.Throughout the episode, we candidly explore our experiences with neurodivergence in our own lives and highlight stories of...2024-04-0439 min
Oh For Food's SakeNeurodivergence - It's not just a TrendIn this episode, we navigate the often misunderstood waters of ADHD and neurodiversity in an industry where focus and precision are paramount. Delving into our personal journeys, we discuss the challenges and triumphs faced from school into adulthood. We reflect on what sparked an exploration of our own neurodivergence and look at family patterns of ADHD symptoms. We emphasise the importance of seeking professional diagnosis over self-diagnosis and provide insights into struggles with educators, impulsivity, and staying organised.We talk candidly about how ADHD traits have influenced our relationships and work productivity, sharing how understanding and adjusting...2024-03-2843 min
Oh For Food's SakeRising Through the Ranks: Helena Field on Leadership in Food OperationsHelena Field joins us this week to explore the realities of a demanding career in food operations. Starting her day with self-care at the gym, Helena emphasises how setting aside personal time has improved her management capabilities and mental health. She recounts her experience rotating through various Cranswick departments, from the abattoir to new product development, and the valuable lessons she learned. Despite her young age and being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, Helena identifies her grit and her employer's support as pivotal to her success.We discuss the dynamic between operations and NPD teams...2024-03-2145 min
Oh For Food's SakeCrisis Averted: Navigating the Storm in the Food IndustryIn this week’s episode of The Oh For Food’s Sake podcast, we reflect on the emotional and commercial impact of crisis situations in the food industry, highlighting the conflicting priorities between food safety and commercial concerns.We emphasise the importance of self-awareness in recognising our reaction to crisis situations and share personal experiences of finding moments of self-awareness and rest amidst high-stress situations.We discuss the benefits of mindfulness, self-awareness, and the value of reflection in developing emotional intelligence and handling crisis management situations effectively.We discuss the significance of practising emot...2024-03-1421 min
Oh For Food's SakeUsing AI in the Food Industry with Grounded ResearchThis week, Kara Webb and Clare Otridge will join us to discuss AI technology in the food industry. This episode begins with a discussion about GPT-4's token prediction, laying the groundwork for understanding the potential of AI in our daily operations. We discuss AI's role in streamlining processes. Issues such as data security and potential misuse of technology. We delve into the ethics of AI, the risk of "fake content" generation, and the balance needed between human creativity and machine efficiency.Kara and Clare guide us through understanding emotional analysis in market research, the p...2024-03-0752 min
Oh For Food's SakeUsing failure to your advantageThis episode delves into the uncomfortable topic of failure and its association with negativity. We emphasise the fear of failure and its impact on decision-making and progress in the food industry. We discuss the emotional toll of failure and its relationship with shame and disappointment, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and accepting the feelings that arise.Stressing the significance of reframing failure as feedback and as a pivotal part of the journey to success, we draw attention to renowned individuals who have experienced failure on their path to success, illustrating how failure can serve as a catalyst...2024-02-2923 min
Oh For Food's SakeInsights on Food Entrepreneurship and Evolving with Jason GibbIn this episode, we are thrilled to have Jason Gibb joining us to discuss the art and challenges of repositioning and rebranding in the food industry. Jason's expertise shines as he recounts lessons learned during the rebranding of a plant-based product that initially failed to resonate with consumers due to complex messaging.The conversation circles the importance of consumer feedback, adaptability, and the perils of taking criticism personally, a hurdle Jason experienced in his past ventures. He illustrates the delicate act of juggling stubbornness and openness as necessary traits for successful entrepreneurship, shedding light on the strategic...2024-02-2239 min
Oh For Food's SakeProductivity HacksJoin us this week as we have a revealing discussion about embracing change and improving productivity in the food industry. We start off by talking about the nervous anticipation around moving to a new CRM system and how it has helped with productivity and processes.We talk about digital tools like ClickUp and how they can revolutionise task accountability, while the Eisenhower matrix aids in the prioritisation of tasks. We share practical tips for tackling the ever-present temptation to procrastinate, suggesting a 20-minute rule to regain focus, and how methods such as the Pomodoro technique or "body...2024-02-1537 min
Oh For Food's SakeFrom Farming to Influencing with Milly FyfeJoin us for a delicious conversation with Milly Fyfe, who brings a no-nonsense practicality to the kitchen, offering busy parents smart tips for cooking authentic meals from scratch. Touching on the pressures of 'Instagram perfect' meals, Milly emphasizes the beauty and importance of simple, accessible ingredients that celebrate UK farming practices. We explore a survey highlighting the community's desire to cook but their struggle with time and confidence.Milly puts a spotlight on the need to educate consumers about food misinformation and shares her journey of creating her blog, "No Fuss Meals, Busy Parents," during the pandemic...2024-02-0840 min
Oh For Food's Sake5 ways to be a Fearless FoodieThis episode starts as we discuss the success of our first in-person networking event and announce the exciting extension of these engagements through monthly Zoom calls discussing podcast topics.We talk about recognising your strengths and seeking help for the weaknesses, framing challenges as opportunities for growth in the food industry and enforcing the necessity of staying authentic to your abilities, particularly when faced with external pressures. Together, we unpack the significance of maintaining well-being amidst business challenges and celebrating diverse thought processes, sharing anecdotes that illustrate these themes.We discuss further the p...2024-02-0134 min
Oh For Food's SakeHow Category Managers can help save the planet with Charlie DerraIn this episode, we delve into the dynamics of the ready-meal sector and the critical role of sustainability within the food industry. Our expert guest, Charlie Derra, brings her extensive experience in category, shop marketing, and research to illuminate the highly competitive space of ready meals. With three range reviews a year, Charlie underlines the importance of balancing product recommendations with production capacities while impacting consumer choices.We confront the negative perceptions of ready meals, providing a clearer picture of their production and the ongoing efforts to convert sceptics. Sustainability remains a core topic as w...2024-01-2545 min
Oh For Food's SakeWhy post launch reviews shouldn't just be a tick boxIn this episode, we discuss the importance of leveraging each team member's strengths in product development and the essential nature of post-launch reviews. How capturing and capitalising on key insights can drive improvements in future projects. We talked about the importance of having a structured post-launch review process, accountability, and the potential for technology, such as management software, to enhance these processes in the food industry.It is important that the format of the post-launch reviews are simple but effective, utilising automation where we can and most importantly, that everyone understands their role in the process. The...2024-01-1830 min
Oh For Food's SakeTurning uncertainty into competitive advantage, with John Stapleton (Part 2)John Stapleton shares his extensive experience in the food industry, from working with early-stage businesses to his involvement in a vertical farm business.John discusses his work with Mission Ventures, an incubator accelerator focused on facilitating investments and helping small businesses grow, as well as the RegalFood Fund, an Irish-based venture capital fund for early-stage food and drink businesses.We talk about his latest venture, Fisher Farms, a vertical farm business focused on sustainable and secure food production, emphasising the benefits of the technology used and its relevance in a post-Brexit Britain.We...2024-01-1121 min
Oh For Food's SakeTurning uncertainty into competitive advantage, with John Stapleton (Part 1)Today's episode kicks off a two-part series with John Stapleton emphasising the need for a product to solve a clear consumer demand. This is a lesson he has learned through his various entrepreneurial exploits, including Little Dish and the New Covent Garden Soup Company. His discussion on scalability and the resilience of entrepreneurs resonates deeply with anyone looking to carve out a niche in the dynamic food market.John’s personal narrative of overcoming failure and self-doubt offers an honest reflection of the entrepreneurial spirit that eventually led to the success of Little Dish.This en...2024-01-0451 min
Oh For Food's SakeWhy you should ditch the New Year’s resolutions for a happier year aheadIn this thought-provoking episode, we engage in an insightful discussion about the concept of intention setting and the value it holds in contrast to traditional New Year's resolutions. We delve into the psychological and practical differences between the two approaches, sharing personal experience and professional expertise to shed light on the benefits of embracing intention setting. We talk about fostering a growth mindset, the impact of self-compassion, and the power of visualisation in achieving intentions. It really is full of lightbulb moments!We embark on a deep dive into the concept of intention setting, providing a comprehensive...2023-12-2824 min