There are a ton of service industry podcasts out there – here’s our list of a few you should check out.
One of the greatest perks of hospitality work is the sense of community and camaraderie that comes with the job. No one gets what you’ve been through quite like your peers in the industry. We get to partake in this unique and shared experience. So no matter the source, being represented and validated through media can be extremely enjoyable. That’s why service industry podcasts are excellent. Whether you’re looking to be entertained by industry talk or want to learn something new — podcasts are a great way to chime into our industry and feel connected.
So, the next time you’re commuting to work or looking for something to listen to while prepping for service — here’s our round-up of a few podcasts worth checking out!
Podcasts from popular publications
Radio Cherry Bombe
Radio Cherry Bombe comes from the magazine that celebrates women in and around the world of food and drink. Much like you would expect, this podcast highlights leading women in our industry through informative and entertaining interview segments. From bakers to chefs, entrepreneurs, and more — Radio Cherry Bombe is a great choice to get motivated and learn from leaders in our industry.
Eater Digest
Of course, we’re all familiar with Eater, but if you didn’t know, they also host a podcast — you might want to check it out. I like Eater’s podcast because it’s short and sweet with interesting and timely topics to our industry. Additionally, unlike their website, the podcast is tailored more to industry professionals and is less for foodies.
Podcasts for Restaurant Business
Opening Soon
From Heritage Radio (an excellent source for a plethora of food-related podcasts, by the way) comes Opening Soon — a series that highlights the process of opening a restaurant through interviews with leading chefs, restaurateurs, and food entrepreneurs around the world. Whether you have already opened a restaurant or have a dream to do so in the future, Opening Soon is a great place to hear others’ stories and learn about the challenges and glories of the process.
Restaurant Unstoppable
Learn from interviews with the industry’s top chefs, restaurateurs, and other hospitality professionals on what makes them unstoppable. Each episode holds a deep conversation with educational and inspirational content for anyone looking to grow in the industry. The episodes are a bit lengthy, some running around 2 hours long — so it can be a great option to listen to during service in the kitchen.
Podcasts from big names
Losing your Mind with Chris Cosentino
Join renowned Chef Chris Cosentino as he interviews fellow chefs and impressive friends. Learn how they got to where they are and what they’re doing to give back to their communities. Losing your Mind offers interesting takes from industry movers and is full of inspirational content. You can listen on most podcast streaming apps, but the better option is to watch the interviews directly from his Youtube channel.
The Dave Chang Show
Dave Chang’s podcast is great because it’s all about exploration— which can be expected from most things Dave Chang produces. From thought-provoking conversations with his guests to diving into travel, culture, and general food and drink industry topics, there is something for everyone to learn and a highly entertaining service industry podcast to check out.
Podcasts with industry interests
Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster
This is, by far, my favorite podcast. Comedians Ed Gamble and James Acaster invite guests, many of which are food industry professionals, to their magical restaurant. The interview explores the guest’s ideal dining experience covering everything from drinks, starters, mains, sides, and desserts. It’s really hilarious and refreshing — 10/10 recommend it, but it might make you hungry.
The Splendid Table
Hosted by award-winning food journalist Francis Lam, this podcast sounds like it could be a segment on NPR. It is audibly soothing, entertaining, and educational. Lam invites food industry professionals to discuss all kinds of topics from personal inspiration, experience, and culture and melds it all at the center with food and eating.
There are literally so many service industry podcasts worth checking out. This is just a shortlist of more globally known podcasts, but be sure to check out some local favorites, too, like Nashville Restaurant Radio, Portland-based podcast Right at Fork, or Austin All Day. Podcasts are a great way to learn and connect to the heart of the industry — sharing experiences through food, conversation, and hospitality.
