I’m In Podcast Episode 52 | Supporting Communities at Christmas: The Season of Giving Back

Episode 52 of our monthly I’m In podcast, sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland is available for our members to listen to today!

In this festive episode of I’m In, host Phil Street FIH brings together two brilliant hospitality voices, Mark Lewis FIH of Hospitality Action and Lizzie Grundy AIH of Pennyhill Park, to explore what supporting communities at Christmas truly means.

From tackling loneliness to charitable giving, team wellbeing, and authentic generosity, this warm, heartfelt conversation reminds us that hospitality’s spirit shines brightest when we take care of one another.

In this episode, we discuss:

• What “supporting communities at Christmas” means to those working in hospitality
• Hospitality Action’s Golden Friends scheme and how it supports retired workers
• Why Christmas can be emotionally tough, and how kindness helps bridge the gap
• Real examples of hotels giving back: toy donations, charity Christmas cards, and more
• Supporting your own teams during the busiest season of the year
• The power of time and volunteering when finances are stretched
• Why acts of generosity are contagious
• Industry wide collaborations like Walk for Wellbeing and the Always Open at Christmas charity single

Why Our Guests Said, “I’m In!”

Mark Lewis:
Mark believes deeply in the importance of professional development and the role the IoH plays in supporting hospitality careers. As someone committed to supporting the industry’s people, joining the IOH community was a natural step.

Lizzie Grundy:
Fresh out of university, Lizzie wanted a professional home that would help her continue learning, connecting, and growing. The IoH gave her that, and now, through the Youth Council, she helps others find their voice and their community too.

Outstanding Quotes from the Episode

• “We help people who hit a bump in the road, and Christmas is when that help matters most” – Mark Lewis
• “It’s all about making sure people feel the spirit of Christmas in every way, not just spending, but sharing” – Lizzie Grundy
• “Hospitality people are, by nature, generous. They’re happy to work while others rest, and they still find ways to give back” – Mark Lewis
• “If you have the right culture, one that truly looks after your team, you’ll handle the Christmas rush just fine” – Mark Lewis
• “Positivity is contagious, giving your time lifts others and yourself” – Lizzie Grundy
• “Every pound counts. With £50 or £100, we can change a life” – Mark Lewis

Members can follow the link below to listen to this episode now!

If you have any feedback about the show or would like to be a future guest, please contact Phil Street at phil.street@instituteofhospitality.org

Listening to this podcast counts toward your CPD activity.

Members can listen to Episode 52 now!