Podcasts are increasingly a tool providing information and support to business and industry with Coolroom Confessional, a new launch sharing stories from the hospitality industry and resources during these current tough economic times.

Hosted by Australian food writer, critic, and broadcaster Melissa Leong (pictured above), sponsored by American Express and created by podcast award winning, Social & Content Lead at Square, Jay Ooi, Coolroom Confessional will connect hospitality up and comers with some of its best known identities, providing advice on how to navigate challenges facing the industry.

Leong said:

“Our pubs, cafes, restaurants are the beating hearts of our neighbourhoods. But, it’s obvious that things are really hard right now. I choose to be optimistic, though. This project taps into hospitality’s best quality: to share. Whether it’s a good meal, or advice, experiences and knowledge, this project is about connecting community and being a catalyst for constructive conversation.”

The first series will feature founders, their business stories, the problem they’re facing and how it impacts their business. They are then connected with industry experts like Gareth Whitton of Tarts Anon (and a winner of Dessert Masters), Reynold Poernomo of KOI and Masterchef, Boost Juice Bars‘ Janine Allis; and Michael Bascetta the founder of Melbourne institutes Bar Liberty, Falco Bakery and Capitano.

Coolroom Confessional is hosted on Squareʼs publication The Bottom Line  with bonus extras, and available now on all major podcast platforms.