Jim and Kate from Creative Content Studio join Colline and Rhona for a role reversal - the producers become the guests.
They talk about the jump from corporate life into running a studio, what it’s really like to trade a guaranteed monthly salary for uncertainty, and how quickly the business has grown since opening in March. You’ll also hear why the local small business scene feels more collaborative than corporate life, the surprising mix of clients coming through the doors (from sound-healing sessions to construction marketing), and the bigger long-term vision: a larger creative space with multiple sets and room for more makers.
Plus, as tradition demands: what everyone’s having for dinner
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
This week on Kitchen Tales, we’re talking all things cake with Domino from Domino Purchase Cakes - from learning to bake with her grandmother, to merging graphic design and cake design into a business built on bespoke celebration and wedding cakes.
Domino shares what it’s really like to create one-of-a-kind designs (including an Alice in Wonderland showstopper), why pricing is the hardest part of the job, and how rising ingredient costs have changed everything. We also get into the most stress-inducing part of cake life: delivery - plus the kind of cake disasters you only laugh about once you’ve survived them.
And yes… we also talk Bake Off: The Professionals — early mornings, insane time pressure, and why Domino would never do it again.
Learn more about Domino Purchas Cakes at https://www.dominopurchas.com
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, we’re joined by Sarah from The Cookery Lab, a chemist-turned-cookery teacher who’s helping people rediscover confidence and joy in the kitchen.
We talk about cooking without strict recipes, teaching children real food skills, building confidence through tasting and instinct, and why cooking together matters more than perfection. Sarah shares how The Cookery Lab has evolved in its first year, from school workshops to adult classes, parties and seasonal sessions, plus her plans for the year ahead.
You can book sessions at The Cookery Lab at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/thecookerylab
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
What do killer swans, a melted pink goose and a six cheese pasta bake have in common? They all live in the wonderfully weird world of Blind Maggot.
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona sit down with Chessie Rosier Parker, screen printer, YouTuber and co-founder of streetwear brand Blind Maggot and screen printing studio Squeegee & Ink. Chessie shares how following her partner Em into a university screen printing session sparked an obsession that grew into a fully fledged business, starting with a £5k “Dragons’ Den” style grant and evolving into a much loved t-shirt brand and educational channel.
They talk about how Blind Maggot’s designs come to life, including the infamous Killer Swans of Newbury tee and a cat doing something very undignified. Chessie explains why printing in-house makes all the difference for creativity and profit, and how Newbury’s markets, festivals and tattoo conventions have helped the brand thrive. She also speaks openly about working with her partner, the role merchandise plays in supporting creative industries, and how she found a path that truly suits her.
Find out more about Blind Maggot at https://www.blindmaggot.co.uk
There is plenty of love for local businesses too, from Lusso and Milk & Bean to the Newbury Artisan Market and charity collaborations such as FLAG DV. Chessie also shares the brilliant story behind the name Blind Maggot. And of course, the episode ends with the most important question of all: what is for dinner?
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.comYou can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecookStrategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.ukThis podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
This episode is proudly sponsored by Newbury boutique, Luna https://lunauk.co.uk
Colline and Rhona are back and looking festive and chatting about the whirlwind of Christmas catering, unusual festive traditions, and what they’re actually eating on Christmas Day this year (spoiler: it’s not turkey).
This week they’re joined by Libby, the artist and creative behind Magpie and the Mob (https://magpieandthemob.co.uk) and co-organiser of the beloved
RenArtGades Artisan Market in Newbury (https://www.renartgades.co.uk).
Libby shares her journey from secondary school art teacher to full-time creative, building a business that blends artwork, hand-painted signs, window art, and her own unique style of drawn mindfulness. Her classes use simple drawing, movement and sensory prompts to help people access mindfulness without the pressure of sitting in silence - ideal for busy minds and neurodivergent folks.
She also lifts the curtain on how the RenArtGades market exploded from 20 traders to up to 80 makers, bakers, artists and artisans each month, and why supporting local independents matters more than ever. Expect stories of painting on every surface imaginable, community spirit on market days, and how creativity became Libby’s path back to joy.
A fun, creative chat filled with festive energy, small-business love, and plenty of laughs.
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.comYou can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecookStrategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.ukThis podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona sit down with Jemma Davis, the founder of Mini Food Explorers and the recipe developer behind the popular Junior Chef Challenge online course.
Jemma shares her journey from childhood “dinner parties” to a 25-year career in food development, including her time at M&S where she helped create products such as the well-known Posh Dog™.
She talks about why cooking skills matter more than ever for children, how to introduce little ones to real ingredients from a young age, and why confidence in the kitchen can shape healthier habits for life. The conversation covers everything from preschool cookery classes and after-school clubs to her new accessible online courses for tweens, plus tips for getting even the fussiest eaters involved.
The episode also includes the Kitchen Tales crew celebrating six months of the podcast (with a little help from Luna’s party outfits), festive gingerbread workshops, and plenty of laughs along the way.
If you’ve ever wondered how to get your kids cooking, how to build food confidence at home, or how to teach basic kitchen skills without the stress, this episode is full of practical ideas.
Find Jemma:
https://minifoodexplorers.co.uk
Instagram & Facebook: @minifoodexplorers
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
This episode is brought to you by VCK Accounting. You can find out more about VCK at https://vckaccounting.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rona sit down for a Proper catch-up in the middle of a very busy season. With Christmas approaching, work piling up, and family life to juggle, the conversation quickly turns to the stress of running a small business and trying to keep on top of accounts.
Colline talks about the headache she’s had with her accounting software, sorting out her HMRC submissions before Christmas, and the pressure of trying to do everything herself. Rona shares how she and her husband handle their finances and admits she’s never fully sure if they’re doing everything perfectly either.
The episode is sponsored by VCK Accounting Services, whose lead accountant VImbai has written “The Numbers Behind the Business,” a clear, straightforward book designed to help business owners understand profit and loss, tax, and all the bits that usually feel confusing. Colline explains why it’s been so helpful and why more people should know about it.
To balance the stress with something lighter, the pair go through a fun set of questions — from their favourite takeaways, store-cupboard must-haves, and kitchen gadgets, to dream foodie holidays, hobbies, and whether they’d ever get a tattoo.
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.comYou can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecookStrategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.ukThis podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
Selamat Datang! (Welcome!) Su and Kat from Makan Malaysia join Kitchen Tales to share their inspiring journey from hosting tiny supper clubs in Reading to building a growing Malaysian food brand loved across the UK.
They talk about friendship, flavours, and the power of food to bring people together. From learning to cook Malaysian dishes after moving to the UK, to launching their own sauce range and catering for weddings across Europe — this is a story of passion, community, and cultural connection.
Explore the world of Makan Malaysia and discover why they believe food is more than just flavour — it’s about belonging.
Find out more: makanmalaysia.co.uk
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, hosts Colline and Rhona sit down with Caroline Dallas, founder of Luna UK, the vibrant Newbury boutique known for its colourful, Italian-made fashion and community-driven atmosphere. Caroline shares her remarkable journey — from DJing at raves in Cape Town and London to opening her first clothing shop on credit (while pregnant!) and eventually expanding to four stores before consolidating into her successful Newbury location.
She discusses imposter syndrome, surviving COVID, rebuilding her business, and the philosophy behind her one-size-fits-most approach that celebrates every body shape.
You’ll hear how Luna became a creative hub for local women, why passion outweighs qualifications, and how Caroline uses fashion to lift spirits and foster community.
Luna UK – Northbrook Street, Newbury
www.lunauk.co.uk
https://www.instagram.com/_luna_uk
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona sit down with Ruth, the founder of Priscilla’s Kitchen in East Garston. Ruth shares how she started her café with no formal qualifications, on the very day the banks collapsed — and somehow made it work.
What began as a homemade catering business has become a warm, welcoming hub for the local community. Ruth talks about imposter syndrome, learning to cook from her mother-in-law, the power of word-of-mouth, and how connection has become the true heart of her business.
From cakes baked with love to creating a space where people belong, this is a story of resilience, community, and the magic that happens when you simply give it a go.
Find Priscilla’s Kitchen on Facebook and Instagram, or visit in East Garston, open Wednesday to Saturday, 10–3.
https://www.priscillaskitchen.co.uk
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona sit down with Polly, founder of Wine with Polly, to talk about her journey from horticulture to wine education, her love for soil, and how English vineyards are flourishing across Berkshire and beyond.
Polly shares how a single wine-tasting course changed the direction of her life, leading her to teach, consult, and collaborate with vineyards including Winding Wood. The conversation explores the beauty and challenges of winemaking in the UK, the growing culture of English wine, and how food and wine pairing can completely transform a meal.
They also chat about the realities of running a business, family life, and the joy of doing what you love every day — even if it means tasting wine for a living.
Learn more about Polly at winewithpolly.co.uk or on Instagram at @winewithpolly.
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona sit down with Veronika from Nourish by Vi, a local yoga teacher, sound healer, and wellbeing practitioner, to talk about slowing down, reconnecting with yourself, and rediscovering joy through food and movement.
Veronika shares her deeply personal journey from burnout and anxiety to balance and purpose, and how changing her relationship with food, learning to pause, and embracing a simpler, more mindful life helped her truly find herself.
The conversation explores the connection between food, movement, and mental health, how yoga and breathwork can support the body and mind, and the power of viewing food as nourishment rather than punishment. Together they discuss how slowing down, cooking simply, and living with gratitude can lead to lasting wellbeing.
They also share their favourite comforting autumn meals, from pumpkin stews to homemade soups, and reflect on the importance of community, collaboration, and living with intention.
Find Veronika online at nourishbyv.com or on Instagram at @nourishbyv.
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.comYou can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecookStrategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.ukThis podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, hosts Colline and Rhona sit down with Ardita, co-founder of Mio Fiore, the much-loved Italian restaurant in Newbury — now celebrating 10 years in business — and the newly opened Mio Fiore Coffee.
Ardita shares how she and her husband turned their shared love of Italian food into a thriving local restaurant that’s become a Newbury institution. She talks about balancing life and business as a couple, learning from hospitality’s toughest years, and how instinct led them to expand into Hungerford and open their own coffee shop.
The conversation explores resilience, community, and the importance of staying true to your values — from sourcing quality ingredients to creating warm, welcoming spaces where everyone feels at home.
Mio Fiore NewburyMio Fiore CoffeeMio Fiore Hungerford
Discover more at https://www.miofiore.co.uk or follow https://www.instagram.com/miofiore_italian_/?hl=en
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona sit down with Fiona Chaillier, founder of Fitter Mother, to talk about fitness, nutrition, and the realities of motherhood.
Fiona shares how she went from charity event management to retraining in fitness while on maternity leave, creating a brand that helps mums reclaim their identity through movement, community, and food. She opens up about the challenges of running mum-and-baby classes, the myths around food and exercise, and why balance - not perfection - is key.
The conversation covers:
* Building mum-friendly fitness classes in Newbury
* Why food should be joy, not the enemy
* The link between nutrition, hormones, and life stages
* Fiona’s four-week trip around the world with her boys
* Collaborating with organisations like the Active Pregnancy Foundation
Whether you’re a new mum, a small business owner, or just someone juggling family and work, Fiona’s story is inspiring, practical, and very real.
Thanks for listening!
Find out more about Fitter Mother at https://fittermother.com
or over on Instagram: @fittermother
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
This episode is brought to you in association with Mio Fiore: Authentic Italian Restaurant. Find out more at https://www.miofiore.co.uk/
In this special episode of Kitchen Tales, the hosts put the spotlight on each other with a fun Q&A. From speedy suppers and family favourites to guilty pleasures, local restaurant picks, and even our biggest pet peeves — it’s time to get to know your hosts a little better!
We chat about comfort food vs summer salads, the best local pubs and restaurants, why supporting local butchers matters, and even share our verdict on a new M&S Japanese-inspired sandwich.
Join us for plenty of laughter, foodie talk, and behind-the-scenes insights into our lives outside of the kitchen.
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona welcome Rachel and Florence from Retreat Berks, the mother–daughter duo creating luxury wellness retreats for parents and their teens or tweens.
They share the story behind Retreat Berks, how their retreats combine wellbeing, creativity, and nutrition, and why these unique experiences help families strengthen their bonds away from the distractions of daily life. From mindful activities and local food to Florence’s role as “right-hand lady,” this conversation is full of inspiration for parents looking to reconnect with their children.
Discover how Retreat Berks supports family wellbeing, the importance of teaching kids to cook, and what goes into planning their signature spa days and weekend retreats across Berkshire.
You can find out more about Retreat at https://retreat.me.uk/
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
Colline and Rhona sit down with Damien Hutchins (Percy King Ltd)—a front-of-house pro turned trainer who levels up service at major venues (think racecourses, rugby, cricket tests, Hyde Park BST) and local spots alike. Damien shares how the “events circuit” works, why staffing quality dips at scale, and the hands-on training that actually sticks (mentoring managers, energising young teams, on-the-floor coaching).
We get into seasonal realities post-COVID, working with big caterers, building small-biz service culture, and treating hospitality like a performance—clear intent, great body language, memorable moments. Plus: dinner chat featuring aglio e olio, roast chicken, and curry goat.
You can find out more about Damien's work at Percy King Ltd at https://www.instagram.com/percykingltd
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
Colline and Rhona sit down with Catherine from Teddy Bears Bakes - the baker behind Compton’s beloved honesty cake cupboard. Catherine shares how a village idea became a thriving side business, from registering, inspections and Natasha’s Law labelling to pricing realities (hello, soaring chocolate costs), cameras for accountability, and community trust.
We talk best-sellers (millionaire’s shortbread, jammy dodger blondies, loaded brownies), freezer strategy for bake-ahead weeks, why she rotates menus, and plans for markets (Newbury Artisan Market) and future postals - plus her dream dessert van. It’s a joyful look at micro-hospitality, neurodivergent focus, and a village that shows up for great bakes.
You can find out about Teddy Bear's Bakes at https://www.instagram.com/teddy.bearsbakes?igsh=YzdzNjJpbjJ1b3R2
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, Colline and Rhona welcome Chrissy, the founder of House of Pinoy, to share her journey from Michelin-starred kitchens and luxury hotels to creating unique patisserie infused with Filipino heritage.
Chrissy opens up about her career working at prestigious establishments like Glen Eagles, The Lanesborough, and Michelin-star restaurants, before striking out on her own to build a patisserie business with a difference. She introduces flavours rarely seen in Newbury—like ube (purple yam)—and explains how she blends them into stunning pastries that challenge expectations while celebrating her roots.
The conversation also explores the challenges of starting a food business from home, balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship, and the importance of collaboration between local independents. Plus, we get into packaging struggles, flavour experimentation, and why she refuses to go back to piping with nozzles!
If you’re curious about how heritage, creativity, and technical skill come together in pastry—or just want to know what “marry me chicken” is—this episode is for you.
You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.com
You can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecook
Strategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.uk
This podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk
In this episode of Kitchen Tales, hosts Colline and Rhona sit down with Céline, founder of Cocolico, a 100% plant-based French pâtisserie based in Reading, Berkshire.Céline shares her journey from training as a nurse in Paris to following her passion for pastry, moving to the UK, and launching Cocolico in 2018. She explains how lactose intolerance led her towards vegan baking, why being niche makes a business stand out, and how her vegan creations—like macarons and éclairs—bring joy to customers who thought they’d never enjoy them again.Céline also talks about her markets, bespoke orders, vegan afternoon teas, and baking masterclasses, including her online vegan macaron course.You can find out more about Cocolico at https://www.cocolico.co.uk/You can follow Céline at https://www.instagram.com/cocolico.patisserie/You can find out more about Colline's Kitchen at https://www.collineskitchen.comYou can find out more about Thyme catering at https://www.instagram.com/thyme_homecookStrategy and marketing by https://www.junecontentstudio.ukThis podcast is recorded and edited by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk