Bite Size

Behind the Scenes of Bellissimo Coffee with Co-Owner, Mark Bignell

Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes at Australia’s most‑awarded coffee roaster?
Join Xanny for an insightful and surprisingly candid conversation with Mark Bignell, one of the three co-owners of Bellissimo Coffee. In this episode, Mark shares the origins of Bellissimo Coffee, how the brand has continued to stay relevant and deeply connected with its customers, and why quality ingredients are essential for crafting the perfect cup. He even reveals where he’s had his all‑time favourite coffee — and you'll be surprised by the answer! Whether you’re a long‑time Bellissimo fan like Xanny or simply curious about the coffee industry, this episode is the perfect companion for your next brew. Want more of Bellissimo? Follow them on Instagram at @bellissimocoffeeau Loved this episode and want to support our show? Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Youtube. Want to get social? Find and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram at @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.
 

Travel, Food & AI with Sonya Gellert, Recipe Editor & Food Writer at Taste.com.au

If you've ever cooked a recipe from Taste.com.au, chances are you've read a recipe edited by Sonya Gellert. Join Xanny for a warm and insightful conversation with Sonya Gellert — Recipe Editor & Food Writer for Taste.com.au and founder of Spaghetti Head Services. With a background spanning travel editing, restaurant reviewing, food and drink journalism, copywriting and recipe development, Sonya brings a deep understanding of the hospitality and media landscape. Together, they chat through some of Sonya’s career highlights — including interviewing chefs like Gordon Ramsay — why she launched Spaghetti Head, and what the future of food writing may look like with the rise of AI. She even gives us a sneak peek at her new book! Whether you’re curious about food or travel writing, interested in the secrets of top chefs, or simply love hearing from creative people doing fascinating things, this warm, welcoming conversation will have you feeling like you’re chatting with friends. Want more of Sonya? Follow him on Instagram at @sonya_gellert Loved this episode and want to support our show? Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Youtube. Want to get social? Find and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram at @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.

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