In 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 how qualitative data can be more effective than quantitative in understanding market needs.

Timestamps:

- [00:00:25] Introduction to the topic and hosts’ background

- [00:01:06] Deep dive into risk aversion and new product development

- [00:02:10] Real-world challenges faced by clients in NPD

- [00:04:14] Discussing specific food categories prone to risk aversion

- [00:12:04] Thanks to the episode sponsor, Daymer Ingredients

- [00:13:26] Utilizing AI and qualitative data in market research

- [00:18:19] Breakdown of chicken tikka masala pasta product as a case study

- [00:22:23] Strategies for engaging stakeholders in the NPD process

- [00:24:20] Closing remarks and invitation for listener interaction

Links and Resources:

Website Link: https://ohforfoodssake.co.uk/

FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ohforfoodsake

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oh-for-food-s-sake/

You can follow us here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oh_forfoodssake/

For industry consulting from Lucy, connect with her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

For further support with industry coaching and facilitation from Amy, find her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

See you next time!

We 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 her business and personal life to highlight the increased efficiency and reduced stress from applying the 80/20 rule. Lucy discusses her renewed approach to time management, which has clarified her productivity and allocation efforts toward high-value activities.

We end the episode by asking you, the listeners, to consider parts of your lives where the 80/20 principle could be instrumental.

Timestamps

- [00:00:00] Introduction to the 80/20 principle

- [00:01:32] Explanation of what 80/20 means in practical terms

- [00:03:17] Discussion on Pareto charts and their relevance in business

- [00:06:26] How recognising team strengths applies to the 80/20 rule

- [00:10:20] Insights into leadership and delegating effectively

- [00:13:03] Lucy shares her method for tracking time and its benefits

- [00:16:22] Personal life strategies using 80/20 for stress reduction

- [00:19:24] The impact of selective relationships on personal peace

- [00:24:00] Final thoughts on the broader implications of the 80/20 rule

Links and Resources:

Website Link: https://ohforfoodssake.co.uk/

FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ohforfoodsake

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oh-for-food-s-sake/

You can follow us here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oh_forfoodssake/

For industry consulting from Lucy, connect with her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

For further support with industry coaching and facilitation from Amy, find her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

See you next time!

Today, 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 employs to balance the demands of a high-profile role with personal well-being and why their new adaptogenic kombuchas have wowed consumers. To finish, Rachel hints at the upcoming store refits designed to make H and B a destination for both health and hospitality on the high street.

Timestamps:

- 00:02:50 – Rachel's food industry background and transition into Holland & Barrett

- 00:08:15 – Discussing the 360 new food lines at Holland & Barrett

- 00:13:40 – The strategic role of stock holding and quick testing methods

- 00:18:25 – Engaging people and sharing a vision in food development

- 00:24:10 – Amy and Lucy’s insights on work-life balance in the food industry

- 00:33:00 – Consumer uptake and the future of Holland & Barrett in retail

- 00:42:55 – Rachel expressing thanks and final thoughts on networking in the food industry

- 00:47:30 – Hosts Amy and Lucy offer final anecdotes and encouragement to listeners

Links and Resources:

Website Link: https://ohforfoodssake.co.uk/

FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ohforfoodsake

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oh-for-food-s-sake/

You can follow us here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oh_forfoodssake/

For industry consulting from Lucy, connect with her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

For further support with industry coaching and facilitation from Amy, find her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

See you next time!

Charlie 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 workplace embraces neurodiversity. Furthermore, advice is shared on fostering a workplace culture of equity and individual accommodation.

Timestamps

- 00:04:15 - Charlie discusses the challenges of asking questions in the workplace.

- 00:10:30 - Journey of embracing autism and finding suitable work roles.

- 00:17:50 - Recognition of Asda's exemplary workplace accommodations.

- 00:24:00 - Discussion on misconceptions surrounding neurodiversity.

- 00:33:15 - Personal experiences with autism authenticity in the workplace.

- 00:42:10 - Benefits of flexible working arrangements for neurodiverse individuals.

- 00:50:05 - Advice for incorporating neurodiversity in work settings.

Links and Resources:

Website Link: https://ohforfoodssake.co.uk/

FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ohforfoodsake

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oh-for-food-s-sake/

You can follow us here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oh_forfoodssake/

For industry consulting from Lucy, connect with her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

For further support with industry coaching and facilitation from Amy, find her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

See you next time!

Join 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 hiring processes and workplace cultures can become more supportive of neurodivergent individuals, such as by providing training, designating mentors, and promoting awareness.

Ellie also shares her academic journey, professional aspirations, and how her neurodivergence complements her creative learning style. We emphasise the significance of sharing experiences and fostering open discussions about neurodiversity to reduce stigma and embrace differences.

Timestamps:

- 00:05:45 - Ellie Vince's academic challenges with dyspraxia

- 00:12:34 - Revealing dyspraxia at work and advocating for inclusivity

- 00:24:50 - Strategies for businesses to support neurodivergent employees

- 00:37:19 - Embracing neurodiversity in recruitment processes and workplace environments

- 00:51:03 - Importance of raising awareness and fostering safe spaces for discussions

- 01:08:57 - Ellie's aspirations and joy in finding a supportive workplace

Links and Resources:

Website Link: https://ohforfoodssake.co.uk/

FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ohforfoodsake

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oh-for-food-s-sake/

You can follow us here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oh_forfoodssake/

For industry consulting from Lucy, connect with her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

For further support with industry coaching and facilitation from Amy, find her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

See you next time!

Show 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 discrimination in both education and the workplace. The discussion advocates for embracing individual strengths, celebrating neurodiversity, and actively fostering inclusive environments.

Amy Polly discusses her role in conducting neurodiversity workshops, aiming to infuse confidence and support into the fabric of workplace culture. The trio also addresses misconceptions surrounding fidget toys for concentration and the necessity of normalising such aids for better cognitive functioning.

We discuss how everybody needs to take shared responsibility to build more empathetic and human-centric workplaces. Finally, Amy reminds us of the significance of open discussions around neurodiversity and shares resources for listeners interested in learning more.

Timestamps:

- [00:05:20] Amy Polly's discovery of her ADHD and its impact on her life

- [00:10:45] The stigmatisation of neurodivergent conditions and the power of an open dialogue

- [00:18:30] Amy Polly's experiences with discrimination and support in the educational system

- [00:26:25] Discussion of neurodiversity workshops and fostering understanding in the workplace

- [00:35:40] The importance of compassion and adaptability in the food industry

- [00:44:15] Amy Polly's transition from finance to mental health advocacy

- [00:53:00] Advice on self-diagnosis and navigating professional help

- [01:02:10] How to effectively use fidget toys in the workplace

- [01:10:00] Q&A with listeners and Amy Polly's contact information

Links and Resources:

Amy Polly: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amypolly/

Website Link: https://ohforfoodssake.co.uk/

FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ohforfoodsake

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oh-for-food-s-sake/

You can follow us here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oh_forfoodssake/

For industry consulting from Lucy, connect with her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

For further support with industry coaching and facilitation from Amy, find her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

See you next time!

In 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 to each other's needs has improved collaboration. We don’t hesitate to discuss how neurodiversity fuels our creativity and problem-solving skills or the surge of ADHD awareness on social platforms.

This episode is not just about challenges; it's a celebration of neurodiversity and an urgent call for greater acceptance and accommodation in the workplace.

Timestamps:

00:03:20 - Amy’s story of discovering her ADHD

00:09:45 - Lucy’s family history of ADHD

00:15:30 - The impact of ADHD on professional life and task prioritisation

00:23:00 - Benefits of understanding neurodiversity in relationships and work

00:36:50 - Rising ADHD awareness and social media influence

00:42:00 - The journey to diagnosis and the importance of professional assessment

00:50:15 - Viewpoints on accommodating neurodiversity in the food industry

01:00:00 - The hosts' expressions of gratitude to their sponsors

Links and Resources:

Website Link: https://ohforfoodssake.co.uk/

FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ohforfoodsake

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oh-for-food-s-sake/

You can follow us here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oh_forfoodssake/

For industry consulting from Lucy, connect with her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

For further support with industry coaching and facilitation from Amy, find her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

See you next time!

Helena 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, the essence of empathy in high-stress environments, and the art of concise meetings. Dissecting the emotional challenges of launching a new factory, managing diverse emotions across departments, and the importance of clear communication and motivation among large teams.

If you would like to be involved in the next recording session with us, you can reserve your place HERE – it’s a lovely session to network, ask questions and talk about the food industry!

Timestamps:

- [00:02:30] Introduction to Helena Field and self-care practices

- [00:10:15] Insights into Helena’s career journey with Cranswick

- [00:18:00] The pivotal meeting strategies in operations

- [00:27:10] Work-life balance and managing stress as a leader

- [00:35:20] Challenges of new factory setup and evolving in leadership

- [00:44:05] Communication and motivation in the food industry

- [00:52:30] Closing thoughts and ways to connect with the host and guest

Links and Resources:

Website Link: https://ohforfoodssake.co.uk/

FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ohforfoodsake

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oh-for-food-s-sake/

You can follow us here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oh_forfoodssake/

For industry consulting from Lucy, connect with her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

For further support with industry coaching and facilitation from Amy, find her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

See you next time!