In this illuminating episode, we explore one of the most overlooked pillars of human health - daylight. Two centuries ago, humans spent 90% of their time outdoors. Today, we spend 90% of our lives inside, and it’s taking a silent toll on our health, performance, and happiness. Our guest, Tony Macken, a lifelong advocate for outdoor living and workplace wellbeing, shares how modern lifestyles and indoor professions — especially in industries like hospitality — are disrupting our circadian rhythms, the biological clocks that govern our sleep, energy, and mental health. Quoting Professor Russell Foster of Oxford University, he reminds us: “Circadian rhythm underpins every aspect of our health. We ignore it at our peril.” From his experience as a Samaritan volunteer to his belief in goal-setting, mindfulness, and outdoor adventure (including plans to go snowboarding for his 70th birthday!), this conversation is a masterclass in reconnecting with nature, and with ourselves. Join us as we uncover how sunlight, sleep, and self-awareness can transform not just personal wellbeing, but workplace culture for the future.
In this powerful and deeply human conversation, we’re joined by Clare Kenny — a leadership, culture, and wellbeing expert whose career has taken her across Europe and Asia, including leading Burberry’s global wellbeing strategy. Clare opens up about her personal journey through anxiety, addiction, burnout, and an ADHD diagnosis, and how these experiences shaped both her life and her mission to help others thrive. Together, we explore what it really means to take care of ourselves in a world that rewards pushing through at any cost. From the importance of setting boundaries and embracing vulnerability, to rethinking how we define success, Clare shares practical insights and profound lessons from two decades of personal and professional growth. Join us for a candid discussion about the power of storytelling, the danger of numbing, and the urgent need to create workplaces where people can truly be human.
In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Lara Luck - a passionate food entrepreneur, mother, and mental health advocate - to explore the powerful intersections of ambition, identity, and self-discovery. From launching a career in the food industry just six weeks after giving birth to navigating the overwhelming challenges of postpartum depression, Lara opens up about the moments that shaped her both personally and professionally. She shares how learning to accept her mental health journey, rather than fight against it, became a turning point and why giving herself grace is now one of her greatest acts of strength. Together, we unpack the lessons she’s learned about self-worth, the taboos still surrounding mental health, and her vision for a future where workplaces prioritise kindness, balance, and genuine support. Whether you’re a parent, entrepreneur, or anyone balancing big dreams with personal battles, this conversation is a reminder that vulnerability is not weakness - it’s courage in its purest form. Follow Lara on Instagram here.
This week on The Burnt Chef Journal, Kris Hall is joined by Neil Rippington, Director of the College Community Programme at the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, and Stelios Kiosses, Course Director and Tutor in Culinary Psychology at the University of Oxford’s Department for Continuing Education, alongside his work as a psychotherapist, Clinical Lead, and author. Together, they explore the fascinating field of culinary psychology - the mind-body connection through food. From emotional eating and neurogastronomy to gastrophysics and mindful eating, this conversation unpacks how what we eat shapes our emotional well-being and mental health. Neil and Stelios also share insights into their new 8-week online course with Oxford University’s Department for Continuing Education, designed to help participants understand the science and psychology behind food choices. Want to go deeper? 📘 Pre-order Neil’s upcoming book: Karnac Books 🎓 Explore the course: Culinary Psychology – University of Oxford Tune in to discover how food is far more than fuel - it’s a powerful influence on the mind, emotions, and overall health.
Trigger warning: This episode contains discussions around suicide and mental health challenges. Please listen with care. In this powerful episode of The Burnt Chef Journal, Kris Hall sits down with Burnt Chef ambassador Joe Bentley for an open and deeply personal conversation ahead of Suicide Prevention Day. Joe shares his journey through mental health struggles, including a life-altering breakdown and the tragic loss of his father to suicide during childhood. Together, they explore the importance of breaking the silence, the lessons Joe has learned about vulnerability and seeking help, and why changing the narrative around suicide is crucial in the hospitality industry and beyond. From preparing to climb Kilimanjaro to facing his darkest moments, Joe’s story is one of strength, honesty, and hope. If you or someone you know has been impacted by mental health challenges, this episode is a must-listen. If you would like to spark a conversation about how you're feeling, reach out via our support services here.
We’re dipping into the archives this week and bringing back a powerful conversation with Simon The Butcher - Former Captain of the GB Butchery Team and owner of Surrey Hills Butcher and Deli. In this episode, Simon talks openly about the reality of long hours, high stress, and the impact this lifestyle has had on his mental and physical health. He also shares his experience with counselling, and we dive into the damaging effect of phrases like “man up” that still echo through the industry today. Although this episode was first recorded some time ago, its message is just as important now. And it’s a reminder that The Burnt Chef Project is here to support everyone in hospitality - including butchers - with their wellbeing and mental health.
In this powerful and refreshingly honest episode, we sit down with Dr. Andres Fonseca, psychiatrist, co-founder, and CEO of Thrive Mental Wellbeing, to unpack the future of mental health and the myths of workplace wellbeing. With over 30 years of clinical experience, Andres brings a no-nonsense perspective to what’s working - and what’s not - in the world of mental health. We explore: Why “positive workplace culture” often misses the mark The dangers of overdiagnosis and why pathologising everyday challenges does more harm than good What the next decade holds for mental health, neuroscience, and personalised care And why advice to your younger self might be more harmful than helpful Whether you’re a mental health professional, a business leader, or just someone looking for real talk in a noisy wellness world, this episode will challenge you to think deeper - and more critically - about how we define and support mental health today.
Hospitality is at a breaking point when it comes to mental health - 76% of managers and 85% of shift workers report symptoms of poor mental health or burnout. In this powerful conclusion to our Fired Up, Not Burnt Out series in partnership with Planday, we dive into the urgent question: how can we spot burnout early and stop it from spiraling? Join host Kris Hall (CEO & Founder, The Burnt Chef Project) alongside Kathryn Wright (Manager of Customer Experience, Planday) and Emma Sanchez (People Manager, Vagabond Wines) as we explore: The early warning signs of burnout and when to take action. The unique risk factors in hospitality and how to manage them. Practical tools from Planday’s Manager’s Toolkit to build resilience. Real-life stories of recovery and hope from those who’ve lived it. This episode blends candid conversations, data-backed solutions, and actionable advice to help leaders and teams create mentally healthier workplaces.
In this powerful and deeply personal episode, chef and restaurateur Stevie McCarry peels back the layers of life in hospitality - from competing on Great British Menu to confronting addiction, depression, and type 1 diabetes. Stevie shares the raw realities of running a family-run business built on values, not just profit. We talk about the extra weight of doing things the right way, the loneliness of leadership, and the myths of perfection that haunt so many in the kitchen. He also shines a light on how collaboration, community, and care are reshaping the future of our industry. From mental health aftercare and outdoor foraging to morning yoga with the team - this episode is a heartfelt look at what happens behind the pass. Stevie’s story is honest, inspiring, and essential listening for hospitality professionals everywhere. Because in an industry that rarely stops, this conversation reminds us why slowing down matters. Thank you Stevie!
In Part 2 of our Fired Up, Not Burnt Out webinar series in partnership with Planday, we dive deep into the heart of hospitality’s retention and recruitment challenges. The hospitality industry thrives on energy, passion, and dedication - but burnout is a growing threat that’s quietly fuelling high turnover and staff shortages. In this episode, we explore how to tackle this issue head-on, with practical strategies and real-world insights from leading voices in the field. Join expert guests including: ✅ Kris Hall – The Burnt Chef Project ✅ Alice Bowyer – Liberation Food Group ✅ Brett Smith – Planday as they share their wisdom on how to build stronger, more sustainable teams. Whether you're a manager, team leader, or just passionate about the future of hospitality, this episode is packed with the inspiration and ideas you need to create workplaces that keep people fired up - not burnt out. 🎧 Listen in now and stay tuned for Part 3, where we’ll uncover burnout prevention strategies for healthier, happier teams.
The hospitality industry is thriving on passion and energy, yet the hidden challenge of burnout continues to affect both managers and frontline workers. In collaboration with Planday, we are launching a mini-series of online events to explore the critical topic of wellbeing in the hospitality sector, using research-driven insights and actionable tools to combat burnout. The series kicks off with 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝟭: 𝗚𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗣𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝗚𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 – 𝗔 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗿’𝘀 𝗧𝗼𝗼𝗹𝗸𝗶𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘂𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺𝘀. Following our extensive research, we've worked with Planday to create a toolkit designed to support managers and foster a healthier, more engaged workforce. This session will dive into what makes a good manager, how to create effective schedules, and the importance of communicating and supporting your team to keep them engaged and motivated. 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲𝘀: Kris Hall – CEO and Founder, The Burnt Chef Project Louise Jackson – General Manager at Vintage Inns IKC & Burnt Chef Project Ambassador Sarah Haddon – VP of Growth at Planday Emily Cox – Head of Account Management, Square UK
Chris Koch doesn’t let limitations or obstacles stand in his way. Despite being born without arms and legs, Koch grew up like any other small-town kid — playing road hockey, causing mischief at school, and helping out on his family farm. Neither he or his family treated his disability like a tragedy, and instead used it to fuel his dreams. Today, Koch is a motivational speaker who inspires his audiences to continually challenge themselves and build the life they dream of. Born in Lethbridge, Alberta, Koch was raised in the small farming and ranching community of Nanton, Alberta. Early on, he learned that he would not be raised with pity or sympathy. Sure, he had to do things a little differently and some tasks took him a little longer to complete than others, but he was determined to be just like the rest and was always treated just like the rest. After all, he still had a good head on his shoulders and with that, anything is possible. Koch loves sharing his story and spreading his message of, “If I Can…” An avid traveller, marathoner, and farmer, his presentation reflects his full life. Simply put, Koch says, if I can do what I’ve done so far in my life, what’s stopping others from doing the same? Chris Koch - If I Can TedX Talk Chris Koch - If I Can - Facebook
In this special Mental Health Awareness Week edition of The Burnt Chef Journal, host Kris Hall is joined by four inspiring voices from our global ambassador community - Louise De Beer, Matt Loughrey, Tony Lewis, and Louise Jackson - for a powerful, honest conversation about mental health in the hospitality industry. Together, they share personal stories of isolation, resilience, and the importance of community in overcoming mental health challenges. From cultural barriers to building support systems, this episode explores how connection and belonging can transform not only individuals, but the industry as a whole. Whether you're on the front lines of hospitality or supporting from behind the scenes, this conversation is a reminder that you are not alone - and that we are truly stronger together.
We’re re-releasing this inspiring episode from February 2021 for our growing audience who may not have discovered it yet. Join us as Michelin-starred chef Nathan Outlaw speaks with Kris from his base in Port Isaac. From early days in contract catering with his father, to working with the legendary Rick Stein, and eventually running his own award-winning restaurants, Nathan shares his honest and humble take on success, leadership, and balance in the high-pressure world of hospitality. This candid conversation offers valuable insights into both the culinary world and the importance of looking after your wellbeing - something we’re deeply passionate about at The Burnt Chef Project. Visit www.theburntchefproject.com to learn more about our work in mental health advocacy for hospitality professionals.
In this raw and powerful episode, Kris Hall, Founder of The Burnt Chef Project, sits down with Matt Smith, Director of External Affairs at Betknowmore UK, for a deeply honest conversation about addiction, mental health, and survival in high-pressure careers. Matt opens up about his personal journey through gambling addiction while holding down a demanding role, covering global football matches and living what many would consider a dream job. Behind the scenes, however, he was battling the collapse of a key professional relationship, rising emotional strain, and an overwhelming sense of isolation. We explore the workplace dynamics that intensified his struggles, and the turning points that led him toward recovery. Matt discusses why self-awareness, empathy, and compassion in leadership are more crucial than ever. This episode is a must-listen for leaders, colleagues, and anyone who wants to understand the human side of addiction and the importance of creating safer, more understanding work environments. Learn more about BetKnowMore UK here. Betknowmore UK’s mission is to address gambling related harm in UK communities. We are the leading provider of gambling support and training services. Get Gambling Addiction support here.
Back in December 2024, Founder of The Burnt Chef Project, Kris Hall, joined fellow speakers for an episode of The Grit Makers Podcast talking resilience. We are fortunate to be able to share this episode on The Burnt Chef Journal with thanks to The Grit Makers. Listen in as Kris Hall joins Mouna Laaragat (Head of Success - The Grit Makers), Tom Cullen (Co-Founder - Zoplo), and Gosia Kalicka (Founder - Petite Giants) for an inspiring conversation about resilience - what it means, how to cultivate it, and why it’s essential in both personal and professional life. Together, they explore the challenges that test our strength, the mindset shifts that help us push forward, and the practical strategies for building resilience in the face of adversity. Tune in for an insightful discussion filled with real-life experiences, expert perspectives, and actionable takeaways.
In this episode of The Burnt Chef Journal, we sit down with Nio DiPietrantonio to explore the intense realities of life as a chef - from the high-pressure world of hospitality to the deeply emotional experience of cooking in senior living communities. Nio shares how stress and caffeine overload in restaurant kitchens led to a minor stroke, prompting a shift in career. Now, as a chef in senior living, she navigates a different kind of pressure: the emotional weight of preparing meals for those in the final chapters of their lives. We discuss the challenges, the purpose, and the profound impact food has on quality of life. Nio is also the Founder of 'Serving Up Support: Maine' a support group to help her fellow industry workers gain access to valuable resources to assist with their mental health and to help fight the stigma associated with the hospitality industry. She is also an Ambassador for The Burnt Chef Project, a non-profit group advocating for better mental health and better conditions for all hospitality workers worldwide. If you’ve ever worked in hospitality or have been touched by the power of food in caregiving, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Listen now and join the conversation!
CHOW is transforming the food, beverage, and hospitality industry by prioritizing mental health conversations through group meetings, education, and advocacy. By creating protected spaces for open conversations, offering wellness resources, and fostering a strong community, CHOW helps industry workers manage stress, prevent burnout, and improve overall well-being. Through awareness and systemic change, CHOW promotes healthier workplaces, stronger teams, and a more sustainable hospitality industry. Listen in as Kris Hall talks with Erin Boyle, CEO of CHOW, about their services and peer support. 🎧 Learn more about CHOW here. View CHOW Community Events here.
This week, Kris Hall is joined by Drew Talbert (Bistro Huddy). Drew Talbert is the creator and star of Bistro Huddy, a wildly popular comedic series that humorously captures the chaos of restaurant life. In addition to his content creation, Drew is a professional actor and improv coach at the renowned Groundlings Theatre. Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, Drew now lives in Los Angeles, CA, with his wife, Andrea, and their children. Tune in as we dive into Drew's 23 years in the hospitality industry and explore how his waiter-themed TikTok channel—ranked in the top 5 percent for followers and likes—has resonated with audiences worldwide. View Drew's channels here: Instagram TikTok Facebook YouTube
Chef Daniel Garwood has worked in some of the world’s top restaurants, from Australia to Michelin-starred kitchens in Seoul and New York. But beyond perfecting his craft, he’s passionate about reshaping the hospitality industry into a more sustainable and mentally supportive space. Inspired by Australia’s “R U OK Day” and troubled by South Korea’s rising suicide rates, Daniel launched a chef collaboration pop-up in Seoul to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention. Now, as Chef/Partner at ACRU in NYC, he continues to advocate for well-being in the industry. In this episode, we discuss his journey, the inspiration behind Oralis: A Conversation on Food and Mental Health, and how he’s driving change in kitchens worldwide. We hope you enjoy this week's episode.
Raye Tikka
This podcast is great, hope this continues longterm