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This week, Kara Webb and Clare Otridge will join us to discuss AI technology in the food industry. This episode begins with a discussion about GPT-4's token prediction, laying the groundwork for understanding the potential of AI in our daily operations. 

We discuss AI's role in streamlining processes. Issues such as data security and potential misuse of technology. We delve into the ethics of AI, the risk of "fake content" generation, and the balance needed between human creativity and machine efficiency.

Kara and Clare guide us through understanding emotional analysis in market research, the potential for AI in lie detection, and how tech tools, though slow to gain traction in the food industry, can amplify productivity and foster innovation. 

We discuss the urgent need for upskilling in the food industry as we navigate these technological advancements. 

If you want 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

- 00:02:40 - Introducing Kara Webb and Clare Otridge and the topic of AI in the Food Industry.

- 00:07:15 - How GPT-4 predicts tokens and its impact on the industry with Karolyn Webb.

- 00:12:03 - Real-world examples and limitations of GPT-4 shared by Clare Otridge.

- 00:18:50 - Exploring AI integration in Microsoft's ecosystem and the food industry at large.

- 00:24:28 - Discussing AI's role in recipe automation and repetitive task management.

- 00:30:22 - Ethical considerations and human oversight in the age of data-driven AI.

- 00:38:49 - Emotional interpretation in AI and minimization of survey biases.

- 00:47:10 - Appreciation for sponsors, the continuous value of human content, and the power of AI in market research.

- 01:01:45 - The strategic development and deployment of Chat GPT by OpenAI.

- 01:07:56 - Anticipated changes with AI in drug discovery and the attention economy.

- 01:12:40 - Closing thoughts on tech tools, AI potential, and advancing with a human-centric approach.

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!

This episode delves into the uncomfortable topic of failure and its association with negativity. We emphasise the fear of failure and its impact on decision-making and progress in the food industry. We discuss the emotional toll of failure and its relationship with shame and disappointment, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and accepting the feelings that arise.

Stressing the significance of reframing failure as feedback and as a pivotal part of the journey to success, we draw attention to renowned individuals who have experienced failure on their path to success, illustrating how failure can serve as a catalyst for growth and innovation.

Through our conversation, we spotlight the necessity of a growth mindset, resilience, self-compassion, and the ability to learn from failure in the ever-evolving food industry. We encourage you, our listeners, to embrace failure, take risks, and not be paralysed by the fear of what others may think.

If you want 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

- 00:00:00 - Introducing the concept of using failure as a source of fuel for success

- 00:08:11 - Reflecting on personal experiences of failure and the emotions they evoke

- 00:15:03 - Steps to acknowledge and accept failure without denial

- 00:18:02 - Revisiting the relationship between mindset and resilience in the face of failure

- 00:21:15 - Embracing a fearless attitude and the importance of taking risks

- 00:22:55 - Concluding thoughts and expressions of gratitude to the audience and 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!

In this episode, we are thrilled to have Jason Gibb joining us to discuss the art and challenges of repositioning and rebranding in the food industry. Jason's expertise shines as he recounts lessons learned during the rebranding of a plant-based product that initially failed to resonate with consumers due to complex messaging.

The conversation circles the importance of consumer feedback, adaptability, and the perils of taking criticism personally, a hurdle Jason experienced in his past ventures. He illustrates the delicate act of juggling stubbornness and openness as necessary traits for successful entrepreneurship, shedding light on the strategic timing of consumer research versus real-world product launches.

Jason recounts his transition from a science and TV production career into founding an olive oil business with his partner, emphasising their focus on storytelling and collaboration within the community. This passion for community support led to the creation of Bread and Jam, an entity offering many resources to burgeoning food entrepreneurs.

If you want 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:

- 00:02:20 – Introduction of Jason Gibb and topic of product rebranding

- 00:05:10 – The importance of consumer research and adaptability

- 00:16:45 – Challenges of timing in research and product launches

- 00:25:30 – Discussion of Bread and Jam community

- 00:38:00 – Jason's background and transition into the food industry

- 00:51:15 – Jason's invitation to the Christmas party and hosts' scheduling dilemma

- 01:04:40 – Contact information for Jason Gibb and call to connect

- 01:15:20 – Thoughts on vegetable consumption and wrap-up

Links and Resources:

Jason’s Website: https://www.breadandjamfest.com/

Jason’ on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonotgibb/

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 have a revealing discussion about embracing change and improving productivity in the food industry. We start off by talking about the nervous anticipation around moving to a new CRM system and how it has helped with productivity and processes.

We talk about digital tools like ClickUp and how they can revolutionise task accountability, while the Eisenhower matrix aids in the prioritisation of tasks. We share practical tips for tackling the ever-present temptation to procrastinate, suggesting a 20-minute rule to regain focus, and how methods such as the Pomodoro technique or "body doubling" can create a conducive environment for productivity.

We discuss Email management, a notorious productivity thief, extensively, along with strategies such as time blocking and task grouping. We talk about our different working styles. Either tackling difficult tasks early in the day or finding your creatice side later in the evening, we establish that there is no right or wrong answer.

Discussing the application of disciplined planning, especially within the fast-paced food industry, to avoid over-commitment and to set realistic goals. It is also important to regularly revisit your work preferences for peak performance and manage emails efficiently, as suggested in "How to be a Productivity Ninja."

Remember our Monthly Podcast Networking, where you can join us once a month (via Zoom) as we discuss everything about the food industry! You can register your place HERE. 

Timestamps:

- [00:01:30] Lucy's experience with transitioning to a new CRM

- [00:04:20] Gratitude for Wager Ingredients’ sponsorship

- [00:05:45] Announcement of the free monthly networking call

- [00:07:10] Benefits of using productivity tools like ClickUp and the Eisenhower matrix

- [00:10:35] Strategies against procrastination, including the 20-minute rule

- [00:13:00] Pomodoro technique as a productivity booster

- [00:15:25] Daily work preferences and time management insights

- [00:18:50] Importance of disciplined planning in the food industry

- [00:21:45] Digital tool challenges and integration in work processes

- [00:24:20] Managing distractions and the "four P's of productivity"

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 for a delicious conversation with Milly Fyfe, who brings a no-nonsense practicality to the kitchen, offering busy parents smart tips for cooking authentic meals from scratch. Touching on the pressures of 'Instagram perfect' meals, Milly emphasizes the beauty and importance of simple, accessible ingredients that celebrate UK farming practices. We explore a survey highlighting the community's desire to cook but their struggle with time and confidence.

Milly puts a spotlight on the need to educate consumers about food misinformation and shares her journey of creating her blog, "No Fuss Meals, Busy Parents," during the pandemic. She proudly discusses her social enterprise and e-book that received praise from Princess Anne herself. Her ventures might pose financial challenges, but their joy and fulfilment are immeasurable. Milly's story is about her accomplishments and her role as a mother and a professional, juggling chronic pain while maintaining a foot in the industry through digital marketing initiatives, her food and farming podcast, and relentless networking.

Milly stresses the impact of real-world networking and how it aids career development and personal growth, such as her leadership course experience at Windsor Castle. Reflecting on the cultural nuances within the farming industry, Fyfe also suggests ways women can uplift each other in this traditionally male-dominated field.

We discuss the significance of teaching adults and children the rewards of cooking from scratch - not just for health but also for keeping family traditions alive. 

Remember our Monthly Podcast Networking, where you can join us once a month (via Zoom) as we discuss everything about the food industry! You can register your place HERE.

Timestamps:

- 00:02:34: Introducing Milly Fyfe and the importance of authenticity in food

- 00:15:20: Milly Fyfe's transition from farming to digital marketing

- 00:25:45: Benefits of networking in the food and farming industry

- 00:40:56: Managing chronic pain and mental health while working in agriculture

- 00:51:10: The inception of "The Countryside Kitchen Meets" podcast

- 01:04:35: Ending on a note of making a meaningful difference through cooking and community

Links and Resources:

Milly Fyfe: https://linktr.ee/MillyFyfe

Our 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!

This episode starts as we discuss the success of our first in-person networking event and announce the exciting extension of these engagements through monthly Zoom calls discussing podcast topics.

We talk about recognising your strengths and seeking help for the weaknesses, framing challenges as opportunities for growth in the food industry and enforcing the necessity of staying authentic to your abilities, particularly when faced with external pressures. 

Together, we unpack the significance of maintaining well-being amidst business challenges and celebrating diverse thought processes, sharing anecdotes that illustrate these themes.

We discuss further the power of providing a nurturing environment that promotes different modes of thinking within professional teams. The aim is to redefine networking as engaging conversations rather than mere corporate exchanges, urging the audience to voice their thoughts fearlessly to spark change in the food industry.

We reveal five tips for becoming a fearless foodie, announce the new Fearlessfoodies.co.uk website and discuss Lucy's timeline for her website development.

Timestamps

- 00:05:22 - Lucy's reflections on the networking event and future Zoom calls

- 00:08:15 - Focusing on strengths and external help with Amy

- 00:11:03 - Addressing challenges without compromising well-being

- 00:14:58 - Embracing neurodiversity and personal experiences

- 00:18:46 - Five tips to become a fearless foodie

- 00:21:34 - Launch of the Fearlessfoodies Co. UK website

- 00:23:50 - Lucy's upcoming website and anticipated timeline

- 00:25:17 - Engaging with the Fearless Foodie movement on LinkedIn

- 00:27:36 - Gratitude towards Daymer Ingredients

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!

In this episode, we delve into the dynamics of the ready-meal sector and the critical role of sustainability within the food industry. Our expert guest, Charlie Derra, brings her extensive experience in category, shop marketing, and research to illuminate the highly competitive space of ready meals. With three range reviews a year, Charlie underlines the importance of balancing product recommendations with production capacities while impacting consumer choices.

We confront the negative perceptions of ready meals, providing a clearer picture of their production and the ongoing efforts to convert sceptics. 

Sustainability remains a core topic as we discuss the balance between convenience and the environmental footprint. Charlie emphasises the role of sustainable diets and the paramount need to minimise waste, including optimising packaging recyclability.

We share our thoughts on waste management complexities and the varied regional practices with this, highlighting the urgency for standardised processes and better consumer education.

You will gain some valuable insights into the importance of data in shaping sustainability and category management practices. From small business strategies without significant resources to pressing environmental needs, data is a compass for driving impactful initiatives within the food industry.

To close, Charlie voices the necessity for more professionals in category management, discussing sector challenges such as scarce entry-level roles and the effects of Brexit on the workforce. Charlie’s invitation is open for further dialogue within this vibrant and crucial part of the food industry. 

During this episode, we mention an engaging opportunity for you to join an online monthly call, fostering direct interaction with the podcast community.

Timestamps:

- 00:02:45 – Introduction to Charlie Derra and his experience in the food industry

- 00:06:15 – Explanation of Nielsen data, TNS, Cantar, and use in category management

- 00:12:30 – The role of category management and impact on ready meals

- 00:18:50 – Challenges of sustainability, packaging, and waste reduction

- 00:27:20 – The necessity for standardization in recyclable materials

- 00:32:05 – The concept of "carbon share" and impact on product lifecycle

- 00:41:15 – Skills necessary for success in category management roles

- 00:49:10 – Closing discussion and where to connect with Charlie Derra

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!

In this episode, we discuss the importance of leveraging each team member's strengths in product development and the essential nature of post-launch reviews. How capturing and capitalising on key insights can drive improvements in future projects. We talked about the importance of having a structured post-launch review process, accountability, and the potential for technology, such as management software, to enhance these processes in the food industry.

It is important that the format of the post-launch reviews are simple but effective, utilising automation where we can and most importantly, that everyone understands their role in the process. The celebration of successes and the constructive approach to challenges are not only morale boosters but also crucial learning tools for continuous development within the industry.

We address the common question regarding who should be responsible for facilitating and compiling post-launch reviews, suggesting that while finance might have a role, cross-departmental involvement is crucial. 

This episode highlights that post-launch reviews are not just a box-checking exercise; they're opportunities for growth and learning that feed directly into our overall business strategy. We need to embrace them as such, even if that means pushing back on the rush to move on to the next thing.

Timestamps:

- [00:02:30] - Introduction to the Importance of Post-Launch Reviews

- [00:10:22] - How to Utilise Team Member Strengths in Product Development

- [00:17:45] - Overcoming the Pressure of Launch Dates for Effective Reviews

- [00:25:31] - Guidelines for Implementing Structured and Automated Post-Launch Processes

- [00:33:18] - Celebrating Successes and Learning from Post-Launch Reflections

- [00:41:59] - Contact Information for Lucy and Amy's Consultancy and Coaching Services

- [00:49:10] - Wrapping Up and Encouragement to Engage with the Podcast Community

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

John Stapleton shares his extensive experience in the food industry, from working with early-stage businesses to his involvement in a vertical farm business.

John discusses his work with Mission Ventures, an incubator accelerator focused on facilitating investments and helping small businesses grow, as well as the RegalFood Fund, an Irish-based venture capital fund for early-stage food and drink businesses.

We talk about his latest venture, Fisher Farms, a vertical farm business focused on sustainable and secure food production, emphasising the benefits of the technology used and its relevance in a post-Brexit Britain.

We delve into John's interest in professional speaking and his website, which focuses on sharing anecdotes and stories from his food career experience, emphasising the importance of leveraging authenticity and personality in business.

This episode explores all the lessons learned from adversity, embracing challenges, and the power of authenticity in business and life. It is one you won’t want to miss!

Timestamps:

00:00: John discusses his work with early-stage food businesses and his involvement with Mission Ventures and the Regale Food Fund.

03:18: John shares insights into Fisher Farms, a vertical farm business, and its focus on sustainable and secure food production.

06:51: The conversation shifts towards John's interest in professional speaking and the importance of authenticity and personality in business.

12:06: The discussion explores the relevance of embracing adversity and the lessons learned from challenges in business and life.

Links and Resources

John’s Website: www.johnstapleton.eu

John’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-stapleton-8471a219/

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

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

Today's episode kicks off a two-part series with John Stapleton emphasising the need for a product to solve a clear consumer demand. This is a lesson he has learned through his various entrepreneurial exploits, including Little Dish and the New Covent Garden Soup Company. His discussion on scalability and the resilience of entrepreneurs resonates deeply with anyone looking to carve out a niche in the dynamic food market.

John’s personal narrative of overcoming failure and self-doubt offers an honest reflection of the entrepreneurial spirit that eventually led to the success of Little Dish.

This enlightening conversation will undoubtedly leave you inspired and equipped with practical knowledge for facing the food industry's unique challenges.

Timestamps:

- 00:02:00 - John Stapleton's introduction to the food industry

- 00:05:20 - The role of consumer needs in product development

- 00:10:45 - John's involvement in Mission Ventures and food-sector investments

- 00:15:30 - Lucy Wager's personal insights into failure and success

- 00:20:50 - Expanding a UK business model to the US market

- 00:25:00 - Learning from business setbacks and failed ventures

- 00:30:25 - The unexpected success of carton packaging with New Covent Garden Soup

- 00:35:35 - The importance of product differentiation and consumer insight

- 00:40:40 - Gratitude towards sponsor Wager Ingredients

- 00:45:55 - Teaser of upcoming episodes and community engagement encouragement

Links and Resources:

John’s Website: www.johnstapleton.eu

John’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-stapleton-8471a219/

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

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

See you next time!