Advertise on podcast: Kitchen Tales

Feeling stuck in your career? Unsure what your next step should be, or lacking the confidence to go after an opportunity? In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline Rufaro and Rhona Everard speak to Georgina Furr, an executive and leadership coach based in Newbury, about career confidence, professional development and making changes that work for you. After 26 years in central government and the Foreign Office, Georgina chose a new direction and established her own coaching business. She now works with women and neurodivergent professionals, helping them recognise their strengths, think through their options and move towards their career goals. Georgina explains how coaching works, why it isn't the same as mentoring and why you don't need to be underperforming or struggling to benefit from it. Coaching can be useful when you're considering a career change, looking for a promotion, returning to work or simply trying to work out what you want next. She shares examples of clients who have built their confidence and achieved new career opportunities, including an overseas leadership role. She also explains why the word “should” can be so limiting and how questioning our assumptions can open up new possibilities. The conversation covers career changes, confidence at work, neurodiversity, leadership development and how coaching can help you find a way forward that fits your ambitions. Find out more about Georgina Furr Coaching at https://georginafurrcoaching.com or connect with Georgina on LinkedIn. Subscribe to Kitchen Tales for more conversations with local business owners and the people behind their work across West Berkshire and the surrounding areas. You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

Running a business, raising a family and trying to find some time for yourself isn't easy. In this episode of Kitchen Tales, the tables are turned as Colline and Rhona step out from behind the podcast and become the guests. Sasi takes the opportunity to find out more about the people behind the businesses, the podcast and the roles they have in everyday life. Rhona talks about being a mum, running her business, keeping up with friends and trying to fit in exercise, while admitting that finding time for herself is something that doesn't happen nearly as often as she'd like. She also looks back at her career and the unexpected opportunity that took her from Sussex to London and a job at The Savoy. Colline talks about growing up in Zimbabwe, moving to the UK at 15 and how being the family organiser has become part of who she is. She also reflects on how different her life has turned out from the one she imagined as a child, when she expected to become an accountant and work in the city. A big part of the conversation is about what happens when you're constantly busy and always chasing the next thing. Colline explains how, after several years of working flat out, she started asking herself what she actually wanted from life. Her answer wasn't a bigger house, a more expensive car or becoming a millionaire. It was time with her family and the ability to be present for the things that matter to her. Rhona talks about wanting to spend more time with her children too, while both of them reflect on the fact that life can move quickly and that it's easy to keep putting things off until a later date. They also discuss confidence, taking opportunities, comparison, travelling with their children and why you don't necessarily have to wait for the perfect time to do something you've always wanted to do. And, as you'd expect from Kitchen Tales, there's still time to talk about what's for dinner. You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

What if having fewer properties to sell actually meant a better service for every client? In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona chat to David and Natasha Morrey of Morrey Property, who have taken a different approach to estate agency in West Berkshire and North Hampshire. With more than 25 years of combined experience in the property industry, David and Natasha have moved away from the high-volume model they experienced in the corporate property world. Instead, they deliberately take on a much smaller number of properties so they can give each client more time, attention and communication. They explain why they believe estate agents can sometimes take on more properties than they can realistically service, and how a smaller portfolio allows them to spend more time with sellers and buyers, including longer property viewings and more honest conversations about pricing and expectations. The conversation also looks at why property sales can take six months or more, despite David and Natasha believing that a well-managed transaction should be capable of completing in around eight weeks. They share the story of one client whose sale and move took just eight weeks, as well as their approach to preparing a property before it goes to market. David and Natasha also discuss property valuations following the huge changes in the market during COVID, the importance of working with the right solicitors and other professionals, the role of lifestyle photography and social media, and why they believe collaboration between property professionals can ultimately benefit clients. It's a relaxed conversation about estate agency, property, community and doing things differently, with plenty of insight for anyone thinking about buying or selling a home. Find out more about David and Natasha through Harding Green and follow Morrey Property on Instagram. Find out more about David and Natasha’s work at: https://www.hardinggreen.com/team/david-morrey/ https://www.hardinggreen.com/team/natasha-morrey/ You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

Sometimes you just need a sign. In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Rhona and Colline are joined by Walkiria Vargas, founder of Sweet Grace Cakes, to hear the story of how she found her way back to baking. Walkiria grew up in Brazil surrounded by food and family influences that sparked her love of cooking. After moving to the UK, working different jobs and eventually spending time working in a school kitchen, she realised that baking was something she needed to return to. Then came a chance meeting, a birthday party and an incredible Cars-themed cake. Walkiria had been asking for a sign that it was time to start baking again. The very next day, she received an order and decided it was time to take the leap. We talk about following your passion, starting again, building a small food business, connecting with your local community and why showing the person behind your business can make such a difference. Walkiria is now relaunching her baking business as Sweet Grace Cakes, a name chosen as a tribute to her mum. Find Sweet Grace Cakes on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sweetgracecakess/ Use code Kitchen15 at checkout for an exclusive discount off of any full price item. Head to https://rebelwine.co.uk You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

What happens when the Kitchen Tales hosts stop interviewing other people and have a good catch-up? In this episode, Rhona and Colline turn the questions on each other, talking about their favourite travel destinations, memorable meals, local restaurants and the food experiences that have stayed with them. From Singapore, France and Australia to Hong Kong, Macau and Poland, they share some of their favourite food memories including the best sauerkraut Colline has ever tasted and the Nepalese food that's become a favourite in Reading. They also tackle the ultimate dinner party question: if you could invite anyone, living or dead, to dinner, who would it be and what would you cook for them? There are vegan brownies, mushroom and miso sausage rolls, Thai-inspired curry, dal, cheesecake and one particularly ambitious dream dinner for Michael Jackson. It's a more relaxed and personal episode of Kitchen Tales, giving you the chance to get to know Rhona and Colline beyond their usual conversations with local business owners. You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

Learning to drive has changed dramatically over the past two decades—but not always for the better. In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Rhona and Colline are joined by Richard Evens from Ultimate Driving to discuss everything from driving test delays and the DVSA booking system to distracted driving, road safety and why modern cars are safer than ever. Richard shares how he accidentally became a driving instructor more than 20 years ago, why learner drivers are facing unprecedented challenges booking tests, and how technology is changing the way people learn to drive. Colline also shares her own journey to passing her driving test after years of putting it off, giving a first-hand insight into what made Richard's teaching approach so effective. Find out more about Ultimate Driving at https://www.ultimatedriving.net You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

"I never set out to be an author." In this episode of Kitchen Tales, we sit down with Sasi to discuss her incredible journey from cooking teacher to published author. Her new book, Silent Innings: Reflections on Life, Still in Progress, uses cricket as a metaphor to explore resilience, personal growth, uncertainty, and the lessons life teaches us along the way. Sasi shares why she decided to write the book, how the process helped her heal and reflect, and what she hopes readers will take away from her story. This is an inspiring conversation for anyone navigating change, facing challenges, or wondering whether it's too late to pursue something new. Find the book on Amazon:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Silent-Innings-Reflections-Still-Progress-ebook/dp/B0GKC62MWR You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona are joined by Flora from Peach Health, an online women's health nutrition clinic helping women better understand their bodies through personalised nutrition, functional testing, and lifestyle support. Flora shares her own journey into nutritional therapy after experiencing health challenges in her early twenties, and explains why she chose to specialise in supporting women and their families. The conversation explores the importance of looking beyond symptoms to identify root causes, the challenges women face navigating conflicting health advice, and how personalised nutrition can help improve energy, hormone balance, digestion, brain fog, and overall wellbeing. The discussion also covers protein, carbohydrates, supplements, functional testing, and practical ways to create sustainable eating habits that fit into busy lives. To find out more about Peach Health, visit https://peach.health or follow https://www.instagram.com/peach__health on Instagram. You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

What happens when award-winning wine meets CBD? In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Rhona and Colline sit down with Amanda from Rebel Wine to explore one of the most unique drinks brands in the UK. Combining premium South African wines with high-quality CBD, Rebel Wine has created a range of beautifully designed canned wines and spritzers that are turning heads for both their flavour and their eye-catching retro branding. Amanda shares the story behind the business, how founder Rupert spotted a gap in the market, and why Rebel Wine has become a favourite among customers looking for something a little different. The conversation covers CBD, wine trends, branding, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and what it takes to launch an innovative product in a competitive market. Along the way, the team samples the wines, discusses changing drinking habits, and explores why younger generations are increasingly looking for lower-alcohol alternatives. Use code Kitchen15 at checkout for an exclusive discount off of any full price item. Head to https://rebelwine.co.uk You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

Finding the perfect gift can be surprisingly difficult. Endless categories, generic suggestions, and soulless online shopping experiences often leave people feeling uninspired. In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Rhona and Colline are joined by Cam Robertson, founder of Vibe Quiz, an innovative platform that helps people discover thoughtful gifts from independent UK businesses through a simple personality-based quiz. Cam shares the story behind Vibe Quiz, how his background in digital marketing helped shape the concept, and why supporting small businesses sits at the heart of everything he does. The conversation explores the challenges of building an online platform, the importance of maintaining a community-focused approach as a business grows, and some creative guerrilla marketing tactics that helped spread the word about Vibe Quiz. Along the way, the team discusses independent retail, customer experience, entrepreneurship, and the value of helping shoppers find gifts with real personality. In this episode: How the idea for Vibe Quiz was bornWhy traditional online gift shopping often feels impersonalSupporting independent UK businesses through e-commercePersonality quizzes and gift recommendationsCreative guerrilla marketing with QR code campaignsBuilding a business while working in digital marketingGrowing a platform without losing its community rootsThe challenges of driving website traffic and awarenessFuture plans for Vibe Quiz Connect with Cam: Website: https://www.vibequiz.co.uk Email: [email protected] You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

In this episode of Kitchen Tales, we welcome Kate Hudson, a neurodevelopmental and educational specialist based near Newbury, for an honest and insightful conversation about supporting neurodiverse children and families. Kate shares her experience working with children, young adults, schools, and parents navigating ADHD, autism, dyslexia, emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA), executive functioning challenges, and the realities of the SEND system. Together, the team discuss why diagnoses are increasing, whether neurodiversity is “just a fad,” and the importance of focusing on support rather than labels. If you’re a parent, teacher, caregiver, or simply interested in understanding neurodiversity more compassionately, this episode is packed with practical advice and thoughtful discussion. Find out more about Kate and her services at: https://www.katehudson.co.uk/about-kate You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at ⁠⁠https://www.collineskitchen.com⁠⁠ You can find out more about Thyme catering at ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook⁠⁠ Strategy and marketing by ⁠⁠https://www.junecontentstudio.uk⁠⁠ This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio ⁠⁠https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk⁠

This week on Kitchen Tales, Rhona Everard and Colline Rufaro are joined by coach, facilitator, and “thinking partner” for a deeply honest and inspiring conversation about confidence, resilience, career direction, and learning how to slow down before burnout takes over. Kirstin shares her journey from a successful career in PR and storytelling into coaching and facilitation, helping individuals, founders, and teams untangle their thinking, navigate change, and reconnect with what really matters. The conversation explores: ​Why resilience is a skill you learn, not a personality trait​The pressure young people face when choosing careers and university paths​Confidence, imposter syndrome, and difficult workplace conversations​The importance of “dropping anchor” and slowing your thinking down​How a simple conversation can completely change someone’s life Colline also opens up about a life-changing conversation that helped her realise she was doing too much and how one small moment of support transformed the direction of her life. Alongside the discussion, there’s also plenty of classic Kitchen Tales warmth and humour, including freezer organisation disasters, Sharpie labelling hacks, spice cupboard confessions, and what everyone’s having for dinner. Find out more about Kirstin and her work here: kirstinkaszubowska.com You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at ⁠https://www.collineskitchen.com⁠ You can find out more about Thyme catering at ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook⁠ Strategy and marketing by ⁠https://www.junecontentstudio.uk⁠ This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio ⁠https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk⁠

In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona sit down with Matt Stroud, founder of Xuberant Health, to explore a more personal and practical approach to wellbeing. Matt shares how his own experience with stress, poor sleep, and pre-diabetes led him away from the fitness industry and into naturopathic health, kinesiology, and holistic coaching. What followed wasn’t a quick fix but a shift in how he understands the body: not something to control, but something to listen to. The conversation digs into the realities behind modern health advice why “one-size-fits-all” approaches often fall short, how stress shows up physically, and why small, manageable changes can have a bigger impact than extreme routines. Find out more about Matt’s work at https://www.xuberanthealth.co.uk You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

In this episode of Kitchen Tales, we’re joined by Deanna, founder of Pearl Collective in Newbury. Deanna shares her journey into the piercing industry, from getting her first piercings as a teenager to building her own studio and creative space. What started as a passion has grown into a collective that now brings together piercings, tattoos, beauty services, and independent businesses under one roof. We talk about how the industry has evolved over the years, why every piercing has meaning, and how small moments, like a child’s first ear piercing, can be just as important as more complex work. Deanna also opens up about the challenges of starting a business during COVID, finding the right premises, and creating a space that supports other creatives. Find out more about Pearl Collective at https://pearl-collective.co.uk You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

Fern’s Bakehouse is a small independent bakery based in Inch's Yard, Newbury, specialising in fresh buns, focaccia and seasonal bakes, as well as offering exceptional coffee. Run by Alan and his partner, Fern's has quickly become a Newbury favourite! Find out more about Fern's Bakehouse at https://www.fernsbakehouse.co.uk You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk