Episode 24: From Living on the Streets to Leading a Team – Lauren McCormick’s Inspiring Hospitality Journey

Host: Cassie DavisonGuest: Lauren McCormick, General Manager, Omi Bar, Leicester Episode SummaryIn this deeply inspiring episode of The Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, Cassie sits down with Lauren McCormick, General Manager at Omi Bar, Leicester, and finalist for General Manager of the Year at the Kith & Kin Hospitality Awards. Lauren’s remarkable story takes her from living on the streets and in supported accommodation to building a thriving career in hospitality. She shares how the industry became her “real-life therapy,” providing purpose, belonging, and the opportunity to make a difference to others’ lives. Key Highlights From Survival to Success: How Lauren overcame a difficult start, living on the streets and supported accommodation, to begin her hospitality career at 16 as a glass collector. Rising step-by-step through the industry: from bar staff to supervisor and now General Manager of Omi Bar. The Power of Hospitality: How hospitality became an extension of family and a place of belonging during challenging times. Why creating a welcoming, compassionate environment for guests and team members is central to Lauren’s approach. Career Challenges & Lessons Learned: Managing the transition from peer to leader and the pitfalls of hiring friends. The importance of internal team relationships for delivering exceptional customer experiences. Lauren’s Vision for the Future: Her dream of opening a late-night venue and breathing new life into UK nightlife. Plans to relocate to London to further develop her experience and career in the big city. Memorable Quote"Hospitality gave me a family when I didn’t have one. It’s not just a job – it’s a place where we can make someone’s day better, no matter what they’re going through." – Lauren McCormick Connect with Lauren McCormick LinkedIn: Lauren McCormick Email: [email protected] 📺 Watch the Full Episode on YouTube 🎥:Watch here on the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast Channel 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast for more inspiring stories of resilience, purpose, and passion in the hospitality industry.