In this episode, Charlotte Firth, a UK-based recipe developer, food photographer, and content creator, shares her journey from documenting her baking on a website to turning food photography, recipe development, and content creation into her full-time career. After a client hired her to bake a cookie with their audience on Instagram, Charlotte embarked on a journey that led her to go part-time in digital marketing in 2021 and full-time in 2022.

Charlotte talks about her inspirations, including Kimberly Espinel and Lizzie Crocker, and how she incorporates maple syrup into both savoury dishes and desserts. She discusses her typical day as a content creator, creating compelling food stories through styling and video content, and the importance of family meals.

She highlights how food content creation has evolved with the rise of short-form video and changing trends. Charlotte also shares advice for aspiring creators, emphasising practice, risk-taking, and authenticity. She also discusses her e-book This Is How We Roll, a guide to making cinnamon rolls, which includes vegan options and braiding techniques. Lastly, Charlotte predicts 2025 food trends, like pistachio and matcha, and the need to adapt trends uniquely.

For collaborations, find Charlotte on Instagram or her website, acupofteaandcake.com.

Follow www.instagram.com/james_golding_chef/ and Maple from Canada UK www.instagram.com/maplecanadauk/ for more seasonal recipe inspiration.

James’ recipes are available here: www.maplefromcanada.co.uk/benefits-of-maple/ambassadors/james-golding/

Follow Charlotte here: https://www.instagram.com/acupofteaandcake/?hl=en

Resources mentioned in the interview:

A Cup of Tea and Cake website: https://acupofteaandcake.com/

The Motion Method (Food Videography & Reels Course): https://acupofteaandcake.thinkific.com/courses/the-motion-method

This Is How We Roll – E-book: https://acupofteaandcake.com/product/this-is-how-we-roll/

In this episode, Graham, Executive Chef at The Dining Room at The Goring—a prestigious Michelin-starred hotel and restaurant in London—shares his journey through the food industry, from taking time off for his family to the call that brought him to The Goring. He reflects on starting as a specialised chef at Claridge’s at just 16, cooking with his grandmother, and how his father influenced his career choice.

Graham discusses the importance of teaching upcoming chefs about discipline, even in mundane tasks, and maintaining a non-toxic kitchen environment. He explores changes in kitchen culture and highlights his culinary inspirations—quality seasonal ingredients and simplicity. He also shares his love for using natural ingredients like maple syrup.

For aspiring chefs, Graham advises staying updated on industry trends, dining widely, and learning about agriculture and ingredients. Looking ahead at The Goring, he plans to enhance social media presence, continue delivering exceptional afternoon tea, and focus on staff well-being.

Follow www.instagram.com/james_golding_chef/ and Maple from Canada UK www.instagram.com/maplecanadauk/ for more seasonal recipe inspiration.

James’ recipes are available here: www.maplefromcanada.co.uk/benefits-of-maple/ambassadors/james-golding/

Follow Graham here: https://www.instagram.com/grahamsquire/

Resources mentioned in the interview:

The Goring: https://www.thegoring.com/food-drink/the-dining-room/

In this episode, James chats to Lisa Goodwin-Allen, executive chef of the Michelin-starred Northcote restaurant. Lisa was also one of the chefs on Great British Menu. Here, she discusses upcoming food trends for 2025, humble winter recipes, and the importance of seasonal ingredients. Lisa reflects on her culinary journey, the impact of social media on the industry, and the evolution of Northcote’s Obsession food festival. Plus, she shares her favourite winter dishes and insights into the benefits of cooking with game meat.

Follow www.instagram.com/james_golding_chef/ and Maple from Canada UK www.instagram.com/maplecanadauk/ for more seasonal recipe inspiration.

James’ recipes are available here: www.maplefromcanada.co.uk/benefits-of-maple/ambassadors/james-golding/

Follow Lisa here: https://www.instagram.com/chef_lisa_goodwinallen/

Resources mentioned in the interview:

Northcote www.northcote.com

Obsession Food Festival https://www.northcoteobsession.com/

The Savoy www.thesavoylondon.com