Principle of Hospitality

Principle of Hospitality

Principle of Hospitality (POH) saw a gap in Australia’s hospitality industry — with a growing need to keep abreast of the latest trends and innovations, as well as the changing needs of consumers, it was clear our hospitality heroes could benefit from a stronger support network.

Episodes

May 12, 2025 50 mins

In this episode, POH Host, Renee Buckingham, engages in an insightful conversation with Tom Guirioli and Dan Leuzzi, co-owners of the infamous Freddy's - 'Your friendly neighbourhood pizzeria' located in Windsor and creators of Tommy's Booze - Italian Liqueurs & Tinnies Made In Melbourne.

Tom and Dan discuss their individual journeys into the hospitality industry, their meeting and the inception of Freddy's. They highlight the c...

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In part 2 of this episode of the Principle of Hospitality podcast, host Leon Kennedy continues his insightful conversation with Johnny Di Francesco, founder of the internationally renowned 400 Gradi.

Johnny dives deeper into how he's built effective systems for kitchen and floor operations, trained staff to deliver consistently authentic hospitality, and balanced his personal passion with tangible business success. They discuss the ...

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In this episode (part 1) of the Principle of Hospitality podcast, host Leon Kennedy engages in a comprehensive discussion with Johnny Di Francesco, the founder of 400 Gradi, renowned for his world-class Neapolitan pizza.

Johnny shares his unique journey starting at the age of 12, driven by the need to support his family, through to becoming an influential figure in the hospitality industry. The conversation delves deep into the pri...

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In this episode of the Principle of Hospitality podcast, Renee Buckingham sits down with Matteo Tine, the executive chef of Orlo in Collingwood. Matteo shares stories from his rich culinary background, including his early experiences in his grandparents' gelato shop, lessons from his family members who are also chefs, and his journey from Melbourne to Byron Bay’s Pixie restaurant.

He emphasises the importance of storytelling in dis...

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In this episode of the Principle of Hospitality podcast, Renee Buckingham sits down with James Audas, co-founder of Luna Wine Store, Bar Heather, Arc Wines, and Lo Fi Wines.

James shares his journey from starting in hospitality at a young age to becoming a successful wine importer and distributor. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of setting up wine-focused businesses in Byron Bay, his experiences working in high-end restaur...

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In this episode of the Principle of Hospitality podcast, host Renee Buckingham sits down with Adam McAsey, co-founder of Project Black, a cutting-edge hospitality brand in Bali. Known as the 'Snacklord,' Adam opens up about his deep-rooted hospitality background, from managing his father’s establishments in Melbourne to launching eight diverse and thriving venues in Bali. He shares insights into his collaboration with business part...

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In this episode of the Principle of Hospitality podcast, Leon kennedy interviews legendary chef Michael Lambie, delving into his illustrious career from his early days in North London's Camden Town to his defining roles in Melbourne's top eateries. Lambie shares captivating stories from working in renowned kitchens like Claridge's, Waterside Inn, and under iconic chefs such as Marco Pierre White. He discusses pivotal moments that s...

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In this episode of Principle of Hospitality, Renee Buckingham chats with Guillaume Zika, Executive Chef at Burleigh Pavilion, about his remarkable 20-year culinary journey. Trained in France, Guillaume honed his craft in some of the world’s most renowned Michelin-starred kitchens across Paris, London, and New York, including Le Bernardin and Per Se.

He shares candid insights into the high-pressure world of Michelin dining, the chal...

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Leon Kennedy sits down with Mark Hannell, the chef and owner of Melbourne's latest hit, Reed House. In this episode, Mark reflects on his transformative journey in the hospitality industry, from his start in London to his defining roles at Three Blue Ducks and the challenging yet rewarding experience of opening and closing OMA. With candid discussions about mentorship, balancing personal life, and the highs and lows of being a busi...

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Renee Buckingham interviews Dan Sims, a seasoned veteran in the hospitality industry. Sims, CEO and founder of Revel Global and chair of Wine Victoria, shares his journey from starting in suburban cafes to becoming a renowned sommelier. They discuss the essence of hospitality, the integral role of wine in dining experiences, and the evolving nature of the industry. Sims emphasises the importance of storytelling, care, and community...

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Shannon Martinez may be an unlikely face of plant-based dining, but she’s unstoppable. With over 22 years in Melbourne kitchens, she's transforming the way the world sees plant-based food. As the owner of Smith + Daughters and Smith + Deli, two of Australia’s most influential plant-based businesses, Shannon’s impact is undeniable. Not to mention, she’s also the author of three best-selling cookbooks, with her fourth, Vegan Italian ...

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In this episode, host Renee interviews Aaron Trotman, founder of NON, a non-alcoholic beverage brand from Sydney.

They discuss Aaron's journey in creating high-quality non-alcoholic drinks inspired by food pairing experiences in London. Trotman shares insights on building a brand, the importance of collaboration for growth and the challenges faced in scaling internationally.

He highlights NON's commitment to producing premium drink...

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Benjamin Cooper - a culinary mastermind, respected chef, king of the Chin Chin kitchen AND cookbook author, joins Host, Renee on our latest POH episode!

He uncovers how personal challenges and kitchen discoveries shaped his career, offering a deep dive into the emotional and sensory triggers that make food truly unforgettable.

Touching on the importance of sharing knowledge, staying curious and the evolving influence of social media...

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Chef Caitlin Koether is an expert in food preservation and fermentation with over a decade of global experience at renowned spots like Bar Tartine in San Fransisco and Relae in Copenhagen.

Caitlin shares practical tips on preservation techniques, sustainability, flavour innovation, and personal insights into mentorship and creativity in the culinary world. Based in Melbourne, she continues to captivate through collaborations and po...

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Host Leon Kennedy engages with Melbourne's renowned Loren Daniels.

Loren of Roller Door Projects, reveals practical techniques for marketing, PR strategy and customer retention in the hospitality industry.

Discover the significance of PR strategies, internal readiness and storytelling to elevate hospitality and marketing efforts. This episode offers valuable insights to thrive in the competitive Melbourne and Australian food scene...

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In this episode, we uncover tackling imposter syndrome and business pressures with Florian Ribul, chef and co-owner of Vex Dining.

The conversation highlights the importance of community, authenticity, and dedication in the culinary world, all deeply influenced by Florian’s family traditions and hands-on experiences.

We explore the significance of creating a localised dining experience, building a brand gradually, and standing out ...

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Ep 279 – Maximising Your Business Payments: A Conversation with David Walsh of pay.com.au

David Walsh, Head of Digital, CX & Marketing at pay.com.au, shares his unique journey from a chemistry degree to digital marketing, showcasing his expertise in data-driven strategies and AI.

In this episode, we explore the benefits of business rewards systems and pay.com.au's transformative impact on payments. Learn how David ...

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In this episode, we explore the essential role of purpose in building successful hospitality brands with Michael Bascetta, Co-Founder & Creative Director of Grada Coffee, Home Grown & Stella Coffee.

Michael tackles topics such as effective project management, strategic mentor relationships, and the significance of branding and proactive planning.

We discuss the importance of community in hospitality, illustrated by Michael's...

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Ep 277 - Mastering the Art of Culinary Precision: Aleksis Kalnins' Journey from Elite Kitchens to MOLLI.

Welcome to the Principle of Hospitality Podcast where we dive deeply into culinary arts with some of the most fascinating personalities. Join your host, Leon Kennedy, as he sits down with the elite operators of the culinary world.

This week, we explore all things 'cooking' and 'high-pressure kitchens' with Aleksis Kalnins, a dist...

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Ep 276 - From Pandemic to Pastry Powerhouse: The Tarts Anon Tale With Gareth Whitton from Tarts Anon 

In this series we are re-releasing some of our most loved, talked about and interesting conversations.  We hope you enjoy this episode.

Welcome to the Principle of Hospitality Podcast where we dive deeply into culinary arts with some of the most fascinating personalities. Join your host, Leon Kennedy, as he sits down with t...

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