Middle Management Movement By Michelle Pascoe

In this episode, Michelle is joined by Lisa Even — keynote speaker, bestselling author, and creator of Have Good Ripple Effect. Together they explore how visible leaders spark stronger cultures, build trust fast, and shape communities that thrive under pressure. From healthcare to hospitality to ESPN and Disney, Lisa shares how leaders bring “the weather” into the room and why presence is the most powerful gift you can give your team.In this episode, Michelle and Lisa cover: Why leadership visibility is the spark for healthy communities How presence creates a ripple effect in culture and performance Practical tools (like the PB&J method) to build stronger teams Signs your culture may be quietly eroding — and how to fix it Why values must drive both accountability and recognition Resources & Links Connect with Lisa Even: Website: https://www.lisaeven.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lisa_even/playlists Podcast: Have Good Ripple Effect Next Steps Subscr

In this episode, host Michelle Pascoe sits down with Michael Johnson, inaugural CEO of Accommodation Australia, who guided the hotel sector through COVID-19, coordinated quarantine hotels with just 48 hours’ notice, and spearheaded the long-awaited merger of Australia’s two peak accommodation bodies. Now retired from executive leadership, Michael is channelling his passion into ReLove, a Sydney charity furnishing homes for people escaping homelessness and domestic violence. By connecting hotels undergoing refurbishments with families in need, ReLove is also helping the sector achieve its ESG goals — a win for people and the planet. Key Points How mentoring and saying “yes” can transform careers What Michael learned from crisis leadership during COVID-19 Why the Accommodation Australia merger finally succeeded How ReLove is repurposing furniture to create dignity-filled homes Ways you can support the movement Timestamps 0:00 – Intro 2:30 – From Diesel Mechanic to Hospitality 7:

What does leading with empathy really look like in the club and hospitality industry?  In this inspiring episode, Michelle speaks with Steve Edgar, General Manager of Coolangatta Surf Life Saving Supporters Club. With more than 20 years’ leadership experience, Steve has transformed workplace culture, guided his club through crises like the 2018 Commonwealth Games and COVID-19 border closures, and spearheaded the Essentially Coolie campaign, which secured $14 million for his community. He also leads Clubs for a Cause, raising awareness and funds for mental health programs. In this episode, Michelle and Steve cover: How empathy transforms leadership in clubs and hospitality Mental health in the workplace – from stigma to support The story behind the Essentially Coolie campaign Steve’s passion project: Clubs for a Cause and “Walking with Mates” Practical ways leaders can build belonging and resilience in their teams  Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome01:05 – Who Steve is: GM, culture-first lead

In this episode, Michelle Pascoe sits down with Jennifer Kahnweiler, bestselling author of The Introverted Leader and host of the Introvert Ally podcast. Jennifer is one of the world’s leading experts on introverts at work, and she shares practical insights from the third edition of her bestselling book. Jennifer explains why introverts aren’t “quiet extroverts” — they draw energy differently. She introduces her proven 4 P’s framework (Prepare, Presence, Push, Practice) for building confidence, influence and leadership skills without acting out of character. You'll learn: Why introverts are half the workforce — and why that matters Jennifer’s journey from extrovert to introvert ally The 4 P’s: Prepare, Presence, Push, Practice (how to apply them) Frontline tips for hospitality and customer-facing roles Hybrid work strategies to help introverts thrive How leaders can adapt communication so every style contributes Next Steps + Resources

Are you negotiating with your team… but not yourself? In this powerful conversation, Michelle Pascoe sits down with Glin Bayley, one of the world’s leading negotiation consultants, to unpack the true meaning of “full-spectrum negotiation”. From inner dialogue to high-stakes deals, Glin reveals the missing link that’s holding back even the most experienced leaders. This episode is a must-listen for hospitality leaders, frontline managers, and anyone navigating people, pressure, and performance in 2025. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: Why self-leadership is the starting point for negotiation Glin’s 7-year journey through identity, burnout, and reinvention How to manage emotional pressure in fast-paced service environments The VALUE framework for negotiating from clarity, not chaos The 5 Negotiator Types – and how to lead with emotional intelligence

In this episode, Michelle sits down with robotics and AI leader Ramona Combrink, co-founder and CDTIO of Auto-M8 and Staff-M8, to bust the “robots steal jobs” myth and show how people-first automation stabilises teams and lifts service. Ramona explains why the next five years will strain labour pipelines, and how smart tech—think one-click rostering, rapid onboarding, and her Voice-M8 phone assistant—removes friction for both staff and guests. From personalised welcomes to data-driven loyalty, she shares practical ways venues can deliver faster, friendlier experiences across six generations of customers. Ramona’s playbook is refreshingly simple: start small, fix one pain point (HR queries, phones, payroll, debt chasing, or shift fills), then scale what works. She walks us through back-of-house wins—robots coordinating lifts, linens and late-night room service; AI dashboards giving leaders live visibility; and low-cost tools small operators can adopt faster than big chains. The result? Less burnout, better

Leadership isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being present. Inspired by her recent trip to the USA (including Disneyland, Cheesecake Factory & Moxie), Michelle shares eye-opening service experiences and what they teach us about emotional intelligence, middle management and creating memorable guest interactions. Whether you're a senior leader or a stretched middle manager in clubs or hospitality, this episode offers real, relatable insights and actions to help you lead with heart (not just KPIs). What You’ll Learn Why Disneyland still sets the gold standard in hospitality leadership The “invisible” emotional toll on middle managers — and how to support them A surprising conversation with a Cheesecake Factory manager What Brene Brown gets right about leadership (and how to apply it in real life) 3 easy-to-implement leadership shifts to make this week Resources & Next Steps

In this week’s episode, Michelle shares fresh insights and personal experiences from the National Speakers Association Conference “Influence” in Scottsdale, Arizona. The conversation is all about customer experience - from building emotional loyalty and exceptional guest experience to embracing innovation in hospitality and retail. Recapping incredible insights across the month of July from Dr Samantha Worthington, Jenn Donovan, Marc Haine and Steve Sidd, Michelle explores: Why personalised kindness is free and delivers exceptional returns. Tips for creating emotionally-connected, high-performing teams. The role of storytelling and care in amplifying brand loyalty and guest engagement. Real-world lessons from venues like The Cheesecake Factory, where team culture, leadership, and proactive service make all the difference. Practical examples from retail—including a behind-the-scenes peek at Macy’s—demonstrating frontline staff impact on customer experience. The importance

This week Michelle sits down with Steve Sidd, a leading figure in hospitality management and consulting, with over 28 years of experience. Despite a winter cold, Michelle couldn’t miss the opportunity to talk with Steve, whose journey in the industry—from opening his first restaurant at 18 to now managing over 13 venues and 350+ staff—offers powerful insights for hospitality professionals and business leaders alike. Steve shares pivotal moments from his career, the importance of nurturing and promoting talent within teams, and why staff retention is crucial for long-term business success. Discover how Steve and his company, Catering HQ, use automation and AI to streamline operations—freeing up staff for better customer service and a more rewarding workplace. You’ll also learn about “Hospo in a Box”, Steve’s innovative franchise system crafted to support small and regional venues struggling with staffing and operational challenges. Hear how this solution offers everything smaller operators need, from menu

This week we’re diving headfirst into the world of extraordinary customer and employee experiences with my dear friend and international guest, Marc Haine, all the way from beautiful Edmonton, Canada. With over 30 years in hospitality, retail, and customer-facing industries, Marc brings a wealth of experience as a strategist, keynote speaker, consultant, and author of Lights, Camera, Action. Marc and I explore what it truly takes to build a service culture that’s notonly sustainable but energising — for both customers and staff. Wediscuss the evolution of the “incidental manager,” why onboarding shouldreally be “forever-boarding,” and how to empower middle managers withthe tools to lead confidently. We also touch on hiring for personality,managing expectations, and how a little bit of performance mindset cantransform every touchpoint into a wow moment. Whether you’re running a restaurant, retail store, or hotel, you’re going to find golden nuggets in this vibrant and heartfelt conversation. So, let the

In this energizing episode of the Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast, Isit down with marketing powerhouse Jenn Donovan—renowned strategist,bestselling author, speaker, and the force behind viral communities likeBuy From a Bush Business and the Spend With Us marketplace. We dive into the heart of rural and regional connection, discussing howbusinesses and hospitality venues—especially clubs—can build engaged,fiercely loyal communities, not just passive followers. Jenn unpacks the essentials of community leadership, safe online spaces, and the art of meaningful storytelling that captures both locals and visitors alike. We also explore how registered clubs can move beyond transactionalmarketing and instead create lasting emotional engagement throughauthentic storytelling and purposeful branding. From social media strategies to multigenerational marketing and customer-centric messaging, Jenn shares practical, no-fluff advice you can act on today. Whether you're a small-town club, a business owner, or sim

This week, I welcome the incredibly inspiring Dr. Samantha Worthington, a global expert in consumer psychology, peak performance, and organisational transformation. As I shiver through a minus 4° morning, Dr. Worthington joins from the sunny Sunshine Coast to share her insights into how clubs and hospitality venues can create exceptional service cultures. With experience working alongside top-tier business leaders and teams, Samantha dives deep into the psychology behind customer loyalty, personalised kindness, and authentic connection. In this engaging conversation, Samantha explains how emotional journeys, not just service touchpoints, drive customer satisfaction. From understanding psychological drivers like belonging and emotional peaks to exploring how leaders can foster trust, collaboration, and recognition rituals, this episode is packed with practical advice and heartfelt stories. Whether you're leading a team or looking to enhance the guest experience, this episode is your blueprint for sustainable

What’s the #1 leadership trait that transforms teams? Authenticity... and in this episode Michelle reflects on three powerful interviews with hospitality CEOs - revealing how authenticity fuels vision, culture, and resilience. From strategic growth to community-first values and courageous leadership, this episode is your blueprint for real-world impact in the hospitality space. Are you leading with presence, values and purpose? Watch/listen now & elevate your leadership style.

In this week’s episode, I sit down with a true pillar of the registered club industry—Paul Barnett, CEO of Mingara Leisure Group and a leader whose legacy spans more than two decades of growth, innovation, and heart. From starting his career in government and liquor and gaming regulation to transforming a one-venue operation into a five-venue community powerhouse, Paul shares the behind-the-scenes journey of amalgamations, leadership lessons, and the strategic vision that has shaped Mingara into the thriving group it is today. His insights into building culture, retaining top talent, and knowing when to say no (even when it’s tempting to say yes) are absolute gold for any leader in the hospitality space. Paul’s leadership is grounded in values, authenticity, and genuine care for his people and community. We talk about creating destinations with purpose—like the opening of the new Encore Hotel and the vision for early learning centres and retirement living—and how important it is to keep the heart of servic

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, I sit down with not only a highly respected CEO but also a dear friend of over 25 years – Glenn Cushion from Ingleburn RSL. From humble beginnings as a plumber saving for a house deposit to leading one of Sydney’s most community-driven clubs, Glenn shares his incredible journey through the registered club industry. We explore how a "second job" became a lifelong career and how opportunities, culture, and people have shaped his leadership style. His passion for the industry, especially the value of human connection, shines throughout our chat. Glenn and I delve into the exciting redevelopment of the Ingleburn Bowling Club, the importance of aligning team values with workplace culture, and what it truly means to lead with purpose. We also touch on intergenerational workplaces, employee engagement, and the future of clubs amidst regulatory and technological changes. Whether you're a club manager, team leader, or someone exploring a career in hospitality, this episode is

Businesses in 2025 are flooded with digital noise—but what if standing out was as simple as picking up the phone or posting a handwritten note? In this solo episode, I’m going to take you behind the scenes of my recent speaking tour across Far North Queensland (FNQ), where I connected with 97 passionate small business owners. From Atherton to Port Douglas, I will share with you what’s really resonating with customers today—and spoiler alert, it’s not another email funnel. I dive into the power of warm calls, the charm of snail mail, and how getting back to basics can spark referrals, build loyalty, and create memorable brand experiences. Whether you’re just starting out or leading a large team, this episode is your reminder that connection still counts—and it’s often the simple, human touches that make the biggest difference. Grab your notebook (and maybe a teabag) as Michelle shares practical tips from her proven 3E Framework: Expectation, Experience, and Evaluation and start writing your Winning Customer S

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, I sit down with Chenelle Conquest, founder of Paws & Whiskers, a Southern Highlands pet care business driven by purpose, heart, and a lifelong love for animals. From secretly hiding a stray dog in her backyard as a child to building a thriving business that provides pet sitting, dog walking, and genuine peace of mind, Chenelle shares her journey from passion to profession. Her story is one of dedication, resilience, and creating a business that truly stands out through trust and care. We chat about the challenges of growing a team in a values-led business, maintaining exceptional customer loyalty, and how Chenelle differentiates Paws & Whiskers in an increasingly competitive market. If you're an animal lover, a small business owner, or someone curious about building a brand that balances heart and hustle, this episode is full of insights, warmth, and wagging tails.

In this insightful episode, I sit down with Kat Lynn, an award-winning food and product photographer, branding strategist, and passionate advocate for regional communities. Kat shares her journey from capturing culinary delights to helping businesses tell their authentic stories through visual branding. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of storytelling in photography and how it can elevate a brand's presence in the market. Kat also delves into the challenges and triumphs of working with regional communities, emphasising the significance of connecting with local businesses and understanding their unique narratives. Her dedication to customer experience design and her role as a regional community connector highlight the impact of personalised branding strategies. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of photography, branding, and community engagement.