Kiosk.World Stories

Maria Hanlon hosts the Kiosk Podcast, featuring Christine and Joe, the husband-and-wife team behind Shokudo. They discuss their journey from corporate jobs to launching Shokudo, driven by Joe's passion for food and Christine's support.One of Shotengai Markets favourites, catch them every third weekend of the month at Lower Stable Street serving up tasty japanese comfort food. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part two of Pixels & Pierogies - Andrzej Wajda's films are screening across London at various venues now and through March. You can find details on www.kinoteka.org.uk If you are listening from out of town there is a tour programme starting in Edinburgh and going to Newcastle, Manchester and Oxford to name but a few of the cities - all the details for those screenings are being updated on the Kinoteka website as they are confirmed. And the Wajda School programme is being presented exclusively at Kiosk N1C and you can find all the details on www.kinoteka.org.uk Just search CELEBRATING THE YEAR OF ANDRZEJ WAJDA WITH WAJDA SCHOOL and you will find details of how to reserve your free ticket to these screenings.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we’re diving into a unique cultural experience Pixels & Pierogies, brought to life in collaboration with the Kinoteka Polish Film Festival and Kiosk N1C. From 7–28 March, Pixels & Pierogis will transform Kiosk N1C into a vibrant celebration of Polish and Ukrainian cinema, art, food and community. This nearly month-long programme brings together free film screenings, immersive AI projects, cultural showcases, fashion and crafts, even haircuts by Ukrainian soldiers, as well as lively debates, tasty food and much more.In this conversation, we’ll unpack what makes Pixels & Pierogis such a unique fusion of Polish and Ukrainian culture and how the Kinoteka Film Festival is rethinking their audience engagement, offering a much broader mixture of events intersecting film, technology, food and community engagement into an unforgettable series of happenings you won't want to miss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re kicking off 2026 with a story that proves it’s never too late to trade a "prescribed" career path for one that’s self-made and sugar-dusted. In our first episode of the year, we sit down with Varsha, the founder of The Snackist—one of London’s most exciting micro bakeries.Varsha didn't just change jobs; she changed worlds. She walked away from a degree in medicine to follow a flour-filled calling, and since then, she hasn't looked back. Based in the heart of London, The Snackist has become a staple for those in the know, specialising in artisanal cinnamon rolls and seasonal bakes that are as much a work of art as they are a treat. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Luke Hemsley, the founder of Wednesday's Domaine, joins us. Wednesday's Domaine specialises in alcohol-free wine, a category experiencing unprecedented growth in popularity. The discussion dives into what inspired Hemsley to enter the alcohol-free wine space, common misconceptions people have about these beverages, and the valuable lessons he has learned along his entrepreneurial journey. Whether listeners are entirely sober or enjoy an occasional tipple, they will find this exploration of the no-and-low drinks sector engaging and highly insightful. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we were joined by Sarah, the Founder and CEO of Citizens of Soil.Citizens of Soil produces award-winning extra virgin olive oils sourced from small-scale farmers who practice regenerative agriculture. Sarah and Maria dove into the story behind Citizens of Soil, exploring how the company has built meaningful relationships with the farmers they work with. It was such a pleasure chatting with Sarah and learning more about her brilliant company, Citizens of Soil. So, let’s jump into the conversation! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this episode we were joined by Olly, the founder of Slowe LivingSLOWE Living® is a lifestyle and design company founded in London in 2019, designing and manufacturing made-to-order furniture in England. Olly & Maria discuss what sparked the idea to set up SLOWE, the story of SLOWE living so far, future plans and SLOWE’s pop up at Kiosk N1C in September.Let’s do it, this is the really brilliant chat with Olly from SLOWE living… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this episode Maria is joined by Yasemin & Alia.Yasemin is a curl specialist celebrating SWANA which stands for South West Asian and North African - hair. Yasemin is also the director of - Talking Textures - an analogue photo series which is currently showcased on Lower Stable Street’s light boxes, here in Coal Drops Yard. Alia works at Shubbak Festival and has collaborated with Yasemin on the exhibition.They discuss Yasemin’s hairdressing journey, how she approached casting for the photos, and the amazing feedback from the photos so far. The exhibition is on until September 7th so make sure to come & check out the incredible photos before then. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma and Eve, co-founders of Open Art Spaces, discuss their platform designed to bridge the gap between art creation and sales. They met through an illustration class and have since grown their market from six stalls to 26. Their events foster a supportive community, with notable moments like first sales and repeat buyers. They plan to expand to North and East London and are preparing for a takeover at Lower Stable Street on July 10th and 13th. They also offer a newsletter subscription for practical tips and advice for emerging artists. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this episode we were joined by Josie Tucker.Josie is a Creative Director & Designer. Josie is also Ex Founder @adapt_____ and @brainchildfest and if that wasn’t enough she also runs Skin - which are beautiful hand painted garments. We spoke about all of the above & Josie’s Skin event at Kiosk N1C.This was a great chat, we hope you enjoy this episode with the super talented Josie Tucker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever traded Michelin stars for market stalls? Liv did! She went from the crazy kitchens of 11 Madison Park to slinging seriously good baked goods (think baklava and killer quiche!) at her own place, Liv's Baked Goodies. We chat about her wild ride, the joys of customer feedback, and the solo hustle. Plus, her best advice? Just believe in your baking dreams! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this episode we were joined by Ocean who runs Banzai Kitchen. Banzai Kitchen is a Mother and Daughter business, serving up tasty authentic Japanese Karaage with a twist, drawing influence from their Japanese/ Jamaican heritage. We chat about how they created their dishes, where they sell their delicious food & lessons learnt along the way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ELLIKER’s tag line is ‘Getting Into Nature’ and that’s exactly what they encourage people to do, through their sustainable products and wonderful community of nature lovers. Robert, the creative Director of ELLIKER, discusses the brand's origins, products, and future plans. ELLIKER's Spring-Summer 2025 collection features recycled nylon and polyester materials, with items like a tech jacket, trousers, and a backpack. The brand aims to promote nature engagement through events and educational activities, such as plant identification and outdoor cooking.We chat about the story of ELLIKER so far, the exciting event they’ve got coming up at Kiosk N1C and future plans. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We sat down with Sam who runs Lil' Wong Bakes. Sam describes herself as a ‘small-time baker of big-time flavour’. She is best known for her pandan sandos, which combine two pieces of light and fluffy chiffon cake sandwiched between fresh cream and berries. Her bakes combine her Hong Kong heritage with her love of British cakes and desserts.In this episode Sam discusses her favourite collabs to date, how she preps before events & future plans.  Let’s dive into this episode with the legend Sam Wong from Lil Wong Bakes… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sebastian, a film industry professional with a diverse background in TV, digital, PR, and marketing, discusses his career and the Polish Poster School exhibition coming to Lower Stable Street. He highlights the unique, hand-painted posters from communist Poland, which reimagined Hollywood and UK films for local audiences. Examples included a disturbing Darth Vader poster and a queer-themed Tootsie poster. Maria and Seb chat about much more, including recommendations in KX, future plans and Sebs new film Cottontail which is set to release in the UK on Valentine's Day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this episode we were joined by two lovely artists, Luana & Mia.Luana Asiata is an artist originally from New Zealand currently living and working in South London. Mia is an art, graphics & textile designer who founded Aeko. The pair did an amazing pop up at Kiosk N1C together so we chat about how it went, along with how they started their business, where they get inspiration and so much more. It was an absolute pleasure to chat with them and so enjoy this one with Luana & Mia… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Kiosk N1C Stories podcast, host Maria Hanlon chats with Gautier and James from News & Coffee, a business reviving the classic newsstand experience with a modern twist. After launching in Barcelona, they’ve now opened a new location in Granary Square, Kings Cross, combining quality coffee with the charm of a traditional newsstand. The conversation covers the journey of News & Coffee, their rewarding experiences, and more—offering a fun and inspiring look at how they’re shaping the local community. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We were joined by Graham and Stefan from Long Boys for episode 13. Long Boys are the original long donut. Graham is the Founder and has been working with food since he was 13 and has worked in some of London’s most famous restaurants, which you’ll get to hear about. Stefan is the Operations Manager and shares how he met Graham & landed his job, what goes on behind the scenes, what’s coming up and we have a right laugh along the way…After the episode they took us to their shop in Coal Drops Yard & we got to try multiple Long Boys and they did not disappoint. You have to get one! We loved recording this one, here’s episode 13 with Graham & Stefan… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For episode 12 we were joined by the lovely Andrea. We spoke about his first memories of music, co founding his record label Baroque Sunburst, the music he makes under the name ‘Big Hands’ future plans and loads more… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For Episode 11, Volcano Coffee Works COO Nick Mabey joined us as we spoke about the history of the company, why becoming a B Corp was so important and what goes on day-to-day in his role.We couldn’t resist asking him what his fave coffee was too of course…all that & more in episode 11 with Nick from Volcano Coffee Works… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We recorded episode 10 in the new Voices podcast studio so everything was very shiny & exciting and we were joined by London designer Takako Copeland. Takako creates Illustrations, textiles and hand-printed patterns which are all beautiful.We spoke about her story so far, her connection with Lower Stable Street, what goes on behind the scene as a busy London designer & much more!Let’s go, here’s episode 10 with Takako Copeland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 9 we chat with Katie Dolby who’s the Managing Director at Cubitts.Cubitts is the modern spectacle maker which was founded in King's Cross in 2013. Katie brought us up to speed with what’s happened since then, including recently opening a store in New York, the services Cubitt’s offer and we chat about Cubitt’s recently being certified as a B-Corp which Katie explains.We also popped down to the store after this chat and need to get ourselves a pair of Cubbit’s sunnies, they’re so stylish! Here’s episode 9 with Katie, from Cubitts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For episode 8, photographer Hannah Norton swung by the studio to talk about when she first found her love for photography, career highlights including consecutively winning British Journal of Photography’s Portrait of Britain, and some of her projects so far.She also has an exhibition at Kiosk N1C coming up which we discuss along with what else is on the horizon.Make sure you head to her website which is https://www.hannahnorton.com/ to check out her work, it’s incredible.This is episode 8 with Hannah Norton. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 7 we are joined by Catherine, the Founder of Catherine HK Ceramics. Catherine specialises in creating handmade tableware such as mugs, plates and bowls.We love that Catherine’s work all has meaning behind it, such as her Question Mug which we talk about. We cover Catherine’s journey so far, advice for someone wanting to get into ceramics, future plans & much more. We had a lovely time chatting away with Catherine, so we hope you enjoy our chat. Here’s episode 7 with Catherine from Catherine HK Ceramics… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 6 we were joined by Teigan, Outreach Co-ordinator & Izah Content & Marketing Lead at Small Green Shoots.Small Green Shoots was founded in 2009. They are a small but mighty organisation dedicated to increasing career opportunities for underrepresented young adults who want a career within the music and creative industries. The three of us chatted about both their time at Small Green Shoots, their pop up at Coal Drops Yard & future plans.This was a really inspiring chat & we are so impressed by all the things Teigan, Izah & Small Green Shoots are working on. So without further a do this is Episode 6 with Small Green Shoots… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For episode 5 Maria was joined by Marianna who is the Founder of Luneta Creations.Luneta Creations is reworked vintage jewellery, sustainably handmade in London by Marianna herself. They chatted about how Marianna makes jewellery, her lovely stall at Lower Stable Street Market, and why she felt it was important to make jewellery that was both vintage & sustainable.Also Marianna was so well dressed when she arrived to record this, her outfit was on point! This is episode 5 with Marianna from Luntea Creations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we chat to Pippa Catterall who is the Professor of History and Policy at the University of Westminster.We could have done 2 episodes on Pippa & her impressive career but this episode was all about Artwork by students from the University of Westminster which has been selected for a new exhibition exploring and celebrating Earth Day on Lower Stable Street.Pippa organised the competition so we spoke about her selection process, the themes within the artwork & the most rewarding part of her job and much more.It’s the second annual arts collaboration between the University of Westminster and King’sCross, following a successful exhibition celebrating Earth Day 2023 and we really recommend you go & check it out!Let’s dive straight in. This is episode 4 with Pippa Catterall. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we chat to Tim, the Founder of Mamma G Cookies.Tim & Maria spoke about Tim's background in finance, words of wisdom from his Mum and how he grew his incredible cookie company. We also got to try one of his cookies, the blueberry muffin plant based cookie & it was honestly UNREAL. Make yourself a tea & you’ll probs want a Mamma G Cookie to go with it. This is episode 3 with Tim from Mamma G Cookies.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we chat to Catherine Loftus who is Head of Brand & B2B at Bird & Blend tea. We spoke about the history of Bird & Blend, their commitment to be as eco-conscious as possible, their lovely staff members and much more. We recorded this one remotely as Catherine is based near Brighton and it was really giving me a craving for a Bird & Blend tea but we have some good news, Bird & Blend are coming to Coal Drops Yard over Easter so you’ll be able to get your tea-fix then!This is Episode 2 with Catherine from Bird & Blend. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are back! We are so excited to get going with Series 2 of our podcast, Kiosk N1C Stories.Kiosk N1C if you don’t know is the voice of Lower Stable Street & has curated all shops, events and exhibitions on Lower Stable Street since Coal Drops Yard opened in 2018. Our mission has been to support new businesses and provide an environment in which they can thrive and grow. In each episode Maria Hanlon will be finding out the real stories of how these businesses have developed and how the community has shaped their journey. What better way to kick off the series than with photographer Rebecca Zephyr Thomas! Rebecca’s work is about connecting with people and telling stories about the passions that light us up as individuals. She’s worked on some really exciting projects which we discuss including her ‘We Are Your Friends’ project which is an exhibition of images shot at London Fashion Week in the late 2000s, that are being exhibited on Lower Stable Street in collaboration with Kiosk N1C.We chat about what’s changed in the world of fashion since then, her inspiration and influences and the biggest lessons learnt along the way. Let’s do it shall we? This is Episode 1 with the incredibly talented Rebecca Zephyr Thomas… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 25 we were joined by Josh the Founder of Axe CoffeeIn 2021, Josh bought a tiny van and put a coffee machine in the back. Since then, London’s ‘coffee mini-mini van’ has opened its hatch regularly on Lower Stable Street, providing shoppers with the smoothest coffee, plus merch including t-shirts, camping mugs and an unmissable coffee BBQ sauce. We chat about Axe Coffee’s story so far, what Josh loves about LSS and end goals… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 24 we caught up with Alice, who runs Mezzo. Born and raised in Rome, Alice moved to London for love and founded Mezzo in 2020. We spoke about family & food growing up, the delicious dishes on the menu, the most rewarding part of Alice’s job & much more… Next time you’re on LSS get the penne arrabiata, one of the best we have ever had! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 23 we were joined by Moto the Founder of Okan.Okan can be described as the home cooking of Osaka brought to London. Moto and Maria chat about Okan’s story so far from starting in Brick Lane and Okans first kitchen in a jazz club to now being a thriving business on Lower Stable Street with a brand new space… Also - disclaimer, Okan’s noodles are top tier.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 22 we meet Steph, the Founder of Collage Club.Collage Club is a workshop series celebrating the art of cutting and sticking! Steph & Maria chat about how Collage Club was born, Steph's brilliant workshops and her book - You Will Be Able to Collage by the End of This Book - great name! If you fancy being creative or getting involved with a workshop or maybe you’re looking for some inspiration, this episode is for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 21 we spoke to Gregg, the Founder of Auld Hag,Auld Hag are the Purveyors of Scottish Scran. Greg launched Auld Hag in lockdown with his partner, and it started with deliveries of hot haggis, & tatties cooked in their flat for friends and Instagram followers. In this episode Gregg brings us up to date with what’s happened since then, including residencies and collaborations, cooking for the Scottish Government & his new shop which will be London's first ever Scottish cafe-deli which opens in Jan 2024. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 20 we spoke to Cassandra, the Co-Founder of Cha-Dong.Cha Dong is a company that brews Hong Kong style milk tea. This episode is a lovely listen & we cover everything from how they brew the tea to challenges faced & future plans. It’s also really inspiring to hear how Cassandra & her husband set up Cha Dong as a hobby & have grown into a really successful business.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 19 we chat with Ada the founder of Midnight Pantry.Midnight Pantry is best described as A JOURNEY TO ASIA THROUGH COOKIES. We were lucky enough to try one when we recorded this & we can confirm they are DELICIOUS. We spoke about Ada’s time in Paris learning the craft of pastry, Ada’s stall on Lower Stable Street & what goes on behind the scenes of a busy business. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 18 we were joined by Nicole who is the founder of Raye.  Raye is a one stop shop for all your gifting needs, perfect for this time of year & we have some good news - Raye is opening a Celebration Store in Kiosk N1C on LSS just in time for your christmas shopping! It was clear to see Nicole's passion for supporting small businesses and it was really interesting to hear how she decided on which brand to stock & hear her journey so far.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 17 we chat to Stephen, the Director & Founder of FishTank. FishTank is a social enterprise for young people offering workspace, funding, networking and mentorship. Stephen & Maria cover why he thinks FishTank was needed, his favourite projects so far & the most rewarding part of his job & much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 16 we chat to Kevin from the iconic Jazz label Blue Note RecordsKevin gave us an incredible history lesson on the story of Blue Note Records from when it was first established back in 1939. We also spoke about some of the artists who have been signed to Blue Note including Nora Jones, Robert Glasper & Herbie Hancock to name a few. Kevin also tells us about the Blue Note pop up happening in Coal Drops Yard and recommends some stunning albums to check out. I hope you enjoy this one as much as we did, here is episode 16 with Kevin from Blue Note… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 15 we chat to Marcus Brown, the founder of Picnic Magazine. London-based food & lifestyle magazine.Marus & Maria discuss photography style, some of the collabs Marcus has worked on recently including with Wagamamas & Kiosk N1C & what goes on behind the scenes. Marcus kindly gifted us a copy of the latest issue, which we chat about, but if you want to get your hands on one go to picnicgiftshop.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 14 we chat to Tatsuo, the Cultural Director at Beams & Co.Tatsuo describes themselves as a creative agency and collective. In this episode we chat about the projects they’ve worked on, their connection to Lower Stable Street and lessons learnt along the way.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we chat to Intoart's Co-Founder Ella Richie. We first met Ella when we invited the collective to do the Lightbox Exhibition down Lower Stable Street. Intoart is an art and design studio in Peckham, home to a collective of artists & designers with learning disabilities. In this episode we chat about how the Intoart journey first began over 20 years ago and what has happened since then including being featured in British Vogue (no biggie!), multiple exhibitions and working with big brands such as Lush & Shelter.  It was an absolute pleasure to chat to Ella, and this is a really interesting insight into the world of Intoart. Enjoy!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 12 we chat to Fabiana, the co-founder of Hiden.Hiden Japanese Curry Lab offers crafted, authentic Japanese Curry in London. In this episode we chat about the history & ethos behind Hiden, the most rewarding part of their business is & how the team overcome challenges.This was a really lovely chat, it made us feel so positive & inspired. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 11 we chat to Abraham from Honest Jon's.Honest Jon’s is a record shop that was established in 1974 and Abraham has been working there for the past 14 years. In this episode we chat about the two different shops & the differences between them, Honest Jon’s Record Label and the journey Honest Jon’s have been on to become one of London’s most loved record shops. This was such an interesting chat so we think you’re going to love it! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Magali & Maria chat about the circular economy & minimising waste, why Magali decided to start Wax Wine & also future plans for her candle business. It is such a clever concept & the perfect gift! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 9 we chat to Harri, the founder of Habit Haus. Habit Haus is a boutique candle studio making homemade colourful candles. In this episode Harri & Maria chat about the process of hand making each candle, the bestseller the bendy boy and her workshops and how Harri balances working full time whilst running Habit Haus.You won’t have seen candles more beautiful, they’re the perfect gift…for a friend, family or you could just treat yourself! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 8 we chat to the lovely Darren, the co-founder of Botanical Boys. Botanical Boy’s aim is to connect people to nature. In this episode Darren & Maria chat about how his business grew from a Hobby, the benefits of having plants and exciting plans for the rest of the year. Darren even sprinkled in a few plant tips - take note! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 7 we chat to Teresa, the Founder & Creative Director of Revive.Revive’s aim is to elevate vintage and pre-loved garments through embroidery. In this episode Teresa discusses with Maria why she thinks fast fashion is so damaging and unsustainable, what advice she would give to someone who is trying to move away from fast fashion of course all things Revive & the business side of things - what services they offer, and what projects Teresa has been busy working on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 6 we chat to Simon from House of Cans, House of Cans is an off licence & can bar on Lower Stable Street. Founded in 2018, House of Cans is built on booze and creative collaboration and having a nice time. In this episode we discuss with Simon the story behind creating his thriving business, the best selling drink & future plans for House of cans.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.