Bite Size

Desserts & Champagne: Expert Pairing Tips with Bernadette O’Shea, Champagne Consultant

Ever wondered what to pair with a glass of Champagne?
Look no further! This episode might just be your answer.
 
Join Xanny as she sits down with Bernadette O’Shea, one of Australia’s most well-known Champagne consultants, who expertise spans across both Australia and France.
With countless awards to her name, and even a knighthood from the French Government for her contribution to the champagne industry, Bernadette brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table.
 
Together, Bernadette and Xanny sip their way through an array of exquisite French Champagnes, perfectly paired with decadent desserts that suit any occasion, big or small.
You’ll discover which desserts pair best with Bernadette’s recommended Champagnes, and how these flavour combinations elevate each other to create an unforgettable experience.
 
Bernadette also shares fascinating stories from her journey as a floral designer working for her family to becoming a Champagne authority, along with insider insights into the art of growing and crafting the perfect Champagne.
 
If you love Champagne, or just want to sip smarter, this episode is your ultimate guide to mastering the art of pairing bubbles with sweet indulgence.
 
Want to know more about Champagne? Book a Champagne class with Bernadette O’Shea via her website at www.champagneconsultant.com.au.
 
Produced by The Podcast boss

From Instagram DM to The Great Australian Bake Off: A Conversation with Gregson Gastar, Contestant on The Great Australian Bake Off

In this episode, Xanny chats with Gregson Gastar, competitor on the latest season ofThe Great Australian Bake Off, with a flair for bold shirts and even bolder bakes.Gregson shares how an unexpected opportunity to join the show allowed him toshowcase not only his incredible baking skills but also his proud Filipino heritage.With warmth and humour, he reflects on his childhood, the influence of his culture onhis cooking, and the whirlwind experience of competing on national TV.Together, Xanny and Gregson dive into the technical side of baking, what it’s like tothink on your feet under pressure and how Bake Off has opened exciting new doorsin his culinary journey.Whether you’ve seen him rise on The Great Australian Bake Off or followed hiscreative bakes on Instagram and TikTok, this episode will leave you laughing anddefinitely craving something sweet.Want more of Gregson? Follow him on Instagram at @gregsoncooksLoved this episode and want to support our show? Subscribe and leave a 5-starrating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Want to get social? Find and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance orsponsorship opportunities on Bite Size email our Brand Coordinator, Rileyat radams@pgdelights.com.au.Produced By The Podcast Boss

The Power of Eating Local with Alastair McLeod, Australian Celebrity Chef and owner of Al’FreshCo Catering

In this episode, Xanny sits down with Alastair McLeod, a much-loved Brisbane-based celebrity chef, whose stellar career has taken him from Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe to television screens and dining tables around Australia.
 
Known for his warmth, wit and signature Irish charm, the executive chef of former Brisbane favourite, Brett’s Wharf, shares stories from his incredible career, his extensive international travels, his love of people and the joy of thoughtfully preparing meals using locally grown produce.
 
Xanny and Alastair chat about how taking cooking back to the basics creates a deeper connection to food, the land it’s grown on and the people who grow it. This grassroots philosophy is what inspired Alastair to start his catering businesses and what continues to drive his passion today. 
 
Whether you’re a foodie, a home cook or simply love a good laugh and a great story, this episode will leave you inspired, entertained and maybe even a little bit hungry!
 
Want more of Alastair? Follow him on Instagram at @chef_mcleod or his business Al’FreshCo Catering at @alfreshco_catering.
 
Loved this episode and want to support our show? Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. 
 
Want to get social? Find and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram 
 
To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance or sponsorship opportunities on Bite Size email our Brand Coordinator, Riley at radams@pgdelights.com.au.
 
Produced By The Podcast Boss

The stark reality of QLD’s Food Insecurity Crisis with QLD Foodbank CEO, Jess Watkinson

In this episode, Xanny sits down with Jess Watkinson, CEO for Foodbank Queensland – the state’s largest hunger relief charity.
With over 20 years of experience in government and not for profit roles, Jess share’s her insights into the growing issue of food insecurity, who it’s really affecting and how Foodbank is working tirelessly to create a hunger free future.
Together, Xanny and Jess explore the crucial role of partnerships in tackling food insecurity, the innovation approaches Foodbank is taking within the charitable food sector and how businesses like Priestley’s can play a pivotal role in driving real impact.
Jess also breaks down how everyday Queenslanders can be part of the solution – showing how even a $1 donation can help provide a nourishing meal to someone in need.
Whether you’re a business owner, community member or simply someone who wants to help, this episode will leave you inspired and informed about how small actions can create a big change.
To donate or to learn how you can support Foodbank Queensland, visit their website at https://www.foodbank.org.au/?state=qld
Loved this episode and want to support our show? Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. 
Want to get social? Find and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram 
To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance or sponsorship opportunities on Bite Size email our Brand Coordinator, Riley at radams@pgdelights.com.au
Produced by The Podcast Boss

Culinary Confidence with MLA’s Corporate Executive Chef, Sam Burke

In this episode, Xanny sits down with Sam Burke, Corporate Executive Chef and Foodservice Business Development Manager for Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA).
A true champion of Aussie red meat, Sam has had red meat in his veins since day one. Starting out as an apprentice chef, he carved out a remarkable career across butcher shops, corporate catering, leisure and sporting events, including the Olympics and Rugby World Cup and even royalty dinners.
Since stepping into the Executive Chef role at MLA in 2014, Sam has been a global ambassador for premium Australian red meat, proudly showcasing its quality and versatility to chefs and communities around the world.
Sam and Xanny chat about how the Australian foodservice industry has evolved over the last three decades, why building ‘culinary confidence’ is key to creating a better dining experience and Sam’s new YouTube series, Raise the Steaks.
Whether you’re curious about the behind the scenes of Australia’s red meat industry or just love a good chat from a chef who’s seen it all, this episode is packed with insights for both business and consumers that you won’t want to miss!
Loved this episode and want to support our show? Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. 
Want to get social? Find and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram @PriestleysGourmetDelights 
To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance or sponsorship opportunities on Bite Size email our Brand Coordinator, Riley at radams@pgdelights.com.au
Produced By The Podcast Boss

Beyond the Plate with MasterChef Alum Kishwar Chowdhury

In this episode, Xanny sits down with chef and culinary sensation Kishwar Chowdhury, who captured national attention as a finalist on MasterChef Australia in 2021.
From her Melbourne upbring with Bangladeshi and Indian roots, to introducing millions of Australians to the bold and rich flavours of Bengali cuisine, Kishwar shares how cooking has become her life’s passion.
They dive into her journey, from working in the family printing business to becoming a national TV finalist. They also touch on how MasterChef Australia gave her a platform to spotlight  cultures in the culinary world and how she challenged fine dining norms.
The conversation explores the harmony between Bengali flavours and Australian produce, as well as Kishwar’s work with the Australian Government to highlight the incredible quality of the local ingredients. If you’re interested in Kishwar’s journey or the connection of food and culture, this episode is a must listen.
Loved this episode and want to support our show? Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. 
Want to get social? Find and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram @PriestleysGourmetDelights 
To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance or sponsorship opportunities on Bite Size email our Brand Coordinator, Riley at radams@pgdelights.com.au
Produced By The Podcast Boss

Part Two: Beyond the Bias with Inclusion Strategist Michelle Redfern

In part two of this episode, we sit down with Michelle Redfern, an award-winning advisor, speaker and inclusion strategist, to explore what real inclusion leadership looks like in high-pressure, fast paced industries.
From her corporate beginnings to becoming a powerhouse advocate for gender equity and workplace inclusion, Michelle shares key moments that shaped her mission and how unconscious bias continues to show up in workplaces today.
Xanny and Michelle unpack the unique challenges faced by hospitality businesses, including the lack of diversity at leadership levels despite frontline representation, and the culture shifts needed to create truly equitable workplaces. Michelle also draws on her work with elite women in sport, revealing powerful parallels between kitchens, venues, and locker rooms.
Packed with real-world examples, practical advice and an empowering message, this episode is a must-listen for venue owners, operators, and anyone passionate about building a fairer, more inclusive future for the hospitality industry.
Loved this episode and want to support our show? Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. 
Want to get social? Find and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram @PriestleysGourmetDelights 
To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance or sponsorship opportunities on Bite Size email our Brand Coordinator, Riley at radams@pgdelights.com.au
Produced By The Podcast Boss

Part One: Beyond the Bias with Inclusion Strategist Michelle Redfern

In the first part of this episode, we sit down with Michelle Redfern, an award-winning advisor, speaker and inclusion strategist, to explore what real inclusion leadership looks like in high-pressure, fast paced industries.
From her corporate beginnings to becoming a powerhouse advocate for gender equity and workplace inclusion, Michelle shares key moments that shaped her mission and how unconscious bias continues to show up in workplaces today.
Xanny and Michelle unpack the unique challenges faced by hospitality businesses, including the lack of diversity at leadership levels despite frontline representation, and the culture shifts needed to create truly equitable workplaces. Michelle also draws on her work with elite women in sport, revealing powerful parallels between kitchens, venues, and locker rooms.
Packed with real-world examples, practical advice and an empowering message, this episode is a must-listen for venue owners, operators, and anyone passionate about building a fairer, more inclusive future for the hospitality industry.
Loved this episode and want to support our show? Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. 
Want to get social? Find and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram @PriestleysGourmetDelights 
To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance or sponsorship opportunities on Bite Size email our Brand Coordinator, Riley at radams@pgdelights.com.au
Produced by The Podcast Boss

Food, Family and Fashion with Brooke Falvey

Welcome to Bite Size!
In today’s episode, Xanny interviews the woman described as Queensland’s answer to Carrie Bradshaw, Brooke Falvey! 
Brooke shares how being part of the multi-generational hospitality family behind Falvey Hotels has influenced her career, and how she balances working for her family while building her impressive fashion career, with over 93k followers on Instagram. She offers a unique perspective of integrating the family business into her freelance lifestyle and how she draws inspiration from travel, food and fashion.
Xanny and Brooke also discuss how food and fashion are surprisingly connected and how together, they can create incredible dining experiences. 
Thanks to Brooke for giving us her time and for bringing some insights into the workings of her family business, Falvey Hotels and how she has turned her love of fashion into a career. 
About your host: Xanny Christophersen CEO at Priestley’s Gourmet Delights, senior business executive and change agent who is passionate about the foodservice industry.
You can connect with Xanny on LinkedIn here. 
 
About your co-host: Brooke Falvey is a talented, award-winning fashion stylist and travel blogger, balancing a successful career in both media and hospitality. Hailing from a multi-generational Queensland family business, Brooke works with Falvey’s Hotels while also building her presence as a fashion stylist and Instagram personality, with over 93k followers.
You can connect with Brooke on Instagram, at @BrookeFalvey
 
Loved this episode and want to support our show? Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. 
Want to get social? Find and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram @PriestleysGourmetDelights 
To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance or sponsorship opportunities on Bite Size email our Brand Coordinator, Riley at radams@pgdelights.com.au
Produced By The Podcast Boss

The Family Behind the Brand: Tony Christophersen and growing a small family business into the leading Australian dessert wholesaler

This episode is an insight into the family dynamics of Priestley’s Gourmet Delights as Xanny interviews a special guest, her father and Priestley’s board member Tony! In this conversation, Xanny and Tony dive into how they ensure that business doesn’t affect their relationship and what the dynamics look like for a family owned and run company. Tony Christopherson has been an integral part of the Priestley’s Gourmet Delights story since its inception nearly 30 years ago. Throughout this episode he shares his personal experiences and insights on how they developed and grew Priestley’s into the business that it is today. He offers a unique perspective on how the family unit was able to navigate the ups and downs that every business encounters and what it took to evolve the once small family business into Australia’s leading dessert wholesaler. Xanny and Tony share their personal business insights and how integral external help was in growing the business to new heights. This episode is a must listen for all small business owners and family run businesses!
About your host: Xanny Christophersen CEO at Priestley’s Gourmet Delights, senior business executive and change agent who is passionate about the foodservice industry.
About your co-host: Tony Christophersen is a well-known figure in the dessert manufacturing industry, as he was an integral part of the Priestley’s Gourmet Delights story since its inception nearly 30 years ago. With his background in marketing, sales and administration, Tony along with a number of family members brought this business to life in 1996. Since then, the business has grown into a sizable business with a footprint of 7,500sqm at the state of the art site in Acacia Ridge. Tony now sits on the Priestley’s board where he has been able to watch his daughter grow and evolve this small family business into Australia’s leading dessert wholesaler. 
Visit our website at https://www.priestleys-gourmet.com.au/ 
Loved this episode and want to support our show? Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. 
To listen to other episodes, view Bite Size’s playlist on your favourite podcast platform, or listen on our website https://www.priestleys-gourmet.com.au/insight 
Want to get social? Find and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram @Priestley’s Gourmet Delights 
To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance or sponsorship opportunities on Bite Size email our Brand Coordinator, Riley at radams@pgdelights.com.au
Produced By The Podcast Boss