Hospo Dojo Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Morgan McGlone, the founder of Belles Hot Chicken, a venue that has been redefining fried chicken in Australia since 2014. But Morgan’s story isn’t just about food—he’s staged internationally with top chefs, managed models in New York, and hosted over 87 pop-ups and collaborations across the globe. Now at Bar Copains, Morgan continues to blend creativity, business, and a passion for hospitality. Join us as we explore Morgan’s journey, from shaping Australia’s casual dining scene to rediscovering his roots, and learn what it takes to stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry.

The restaurant world thrives on many trades that work behind the scenes, and in today’s episode, we’ve got Samuel Fraraccio, also known as The Brick Chef, joining us. Samuel collaborates with chefs and restaurant owners across Australia, designing and building incredible wood-fired ovens that bring unique craftsmanship to the restaurants world wide. We chat about the process behind creating these ovens, how they enhance the dining experience, and some of the challenges and innovations that Sam encounters in this super niche space. If you’re curious about how ovens are built to his standard, this episode is for you!

What happens when a finance professional takes a leap of faith into the culinary world? Junda Khoo turned a small food court outlet into one of Sydney’s most beloved Malaysian dining destinations. His story is one of passion, perseverance, and the power of community. In this episode of the Hospo Dojo Podcast, we chat with Junda Khoo, the mastermind behind Ho Jiak. From leaving a stable career in finance to opening a tiny 12-seater restaurant, Junda shares his inspiring journey of following his passion for cooking and bringing authentic Malaysian flavors to Sydney. We dive into his challenges, his rapid success, and his commitment to his team and community, even during the toughest times. Whether you’re in hospitality or just love a good entrepreneurial story, this episode is packed with valuable insights on leadership, resilience, and the art of turning dreams into reality.

In this episode of the Hospo Dojo Podcast, we are joined by Chris and Jesse, the masterminds behind Happyfield, the award-winning cafe known for its exceptional coffee and innovative brunch menu. They share their journey from humble beginnings to being recognised as the best cafe in Australia. Chris and Jesse delve into their unique approach to hospitality, emphasising the importance of community, collaboration, and creating an experience that keeps customers coming back. They also discuss the challenges of opening a cafe with a limited budget, the process of branding, and the secret to their strong partnership. Tune in to learn about their recipe for success and what it takes to stand out in the competitive world of hospitality.