#206 - Hospitality Meets Professor Peter Jones - From Army to Advocacy

🎙️ About This Episode:

Get ready to dive into an episode brimming with laughter, heartfelt stories, and eye-opening revelations! I sat down for a candid chat with Professor Peter Jones MBE, a hospitality industry guru with a heart of gold and a knack for comedic storytelling.

📰 Here’s What You’ll Discover:

• The Art of Inclusion: Peter shares how inviting employees to explain tasks to new team members—especially those with disabilities—not only boosts team performance but also turns mundane tasks into a collective learning experience. Who knew improving professionalism could be so fun?
• A Journey Through History & Comedy: From serendipitously walking into an army recruiting office to managing massive catering events for royalty in Germany, Peter’s career path is as entertaining as it is inspiring. There's more than a few raspberries in here.
• Breaking Barriers: Peter’s mission to challenge traditional views on disability employment isn’t just inspiring; it’s bang on point. Learn how a grateful interaction with a deaf doorman in India and a loyal trainee at Crumbs have turned traditional notions upside down.
• Theatre of Hospitality: Phil and Peter explore the concept of the hospitality industry as a grand stage, where confidence, professionalism, and a dash of showmanship can make all the difference. And let’s face it, nothing builds confidence like serving the Queen herself!
• Outwitting the Odds: Hear how Peter’s innovative approach in transforming a Georgian building into a four-star hotel, despite several setbacks, showcases the power of persistence and a good sense of humour.

💼 Key Takeaways:

• Improving Through Inclusion: Involving team members in training fosters a culture of continuous improvement and inclusion. Plus, it’s a great way to bond over shared knowledge and a few laughs.
• Finding Joy in the Journey: Peter’s career is a testament to embracing unexpected opportunities and finding humour in the challenges. Whether in the army or hospitality, a good laugh can open many doors (and hearts).
• Breaking Down Barriers: Employing individuals with disabilities isn’t just good for inclusivity—it's good for business. Discover how integrating diverse talents can lead to surprising moments of joy and loyalty.
• Confidence is Key: In the world of hospitality (and in life), confidence can make you stand out. Building a professional, confidence-boosting environment is crucial, and having a bit of fun along the way doesn’t hurt!
• Persistence Pays Off: From initial failures to ultimate triumphs, Peter’s story highlights the importance of persistence, innovation, and a bit of comedic resilience.

Join us for an episode that’s as informative as it is entertaining, with a few laughs along the way! Whether you’re in hospitality, education, or just love a good story, Peter Jones will leave you inspired and smiling.

The Guest

Professor Peter A Jones, MBE DSc(Hon) FIH FCGI FRACA

Peter Jones is the chair of the Crumbs Project. A disability charity that provides hospitality education and training for adults with learning and mental health disabilities. Peter has been involved with the charity for some years and is a powerful advocate and champion for creating professional opportunities for those with disabilities who are often overlooked at the margins of society.

Peter has enjoyed a varied professional career in various army, industry and higher education appointments.

He is a published academic and edited a number of academic and professional journals. He has chaired and been a member of professional and...