In the MEANtime

In this episode, host Dr. Lauren Siegel, joined by Dr. Rami Shamseen, interviews Dr. Agnieszka Rydzik (University of Lincoln) about her research on how increasing use of technology in hospitality affects workers’ experiences, especially since the pandemic accelerated tools like QR-code ordering and self-service systems. Drawing on dozens of interviews with workers and industry stakeholders, she discusses how technology can intensify work, reduce staffing, create new pressures when systems fail, and shift customer frustration onto employees, often without enough training. Agnieszka also explores how these changes can reduce meaningful human interaction with customers, coworkers, and suppliers, contributing to disconnection and stress, while affecting workers differently by role and workplace. 01:25 Pandemic Tech Acceleration03:57 Defining The Research Focus04:35 Peak Times Staffing Pressures08:09 Training And Tech Troubles09:48 Why Hospitality Matters12:03 Tech Reduces Human Connection14:05 Invisible Workplace Tech Shifts17:00 Gen Z Tech Reality 17:34 Human Connection Over Apps18:01 Worker Centric Tech Rethink18:29 Hospitality Futures Tool20:39 Bartender Audio Narrative22:19 Dehumanization and Manners29:01 Guidelines for Better Practice

In this episode, hosts Dr Lauren Siegel and Dr Wenjie Cai welcome visiting researcher Dr Ian R. Lamond (University of Greenwich, March 2026) to discuss their work on “death spaces,” storytelling, and rituals. Ian describes their book Death and Events and autoethnographic reflections from death-industry practitioners and death scholars, sparked by a case where tourists photographed an Indian funeral. Ian shares their move into celebrancy—focused on LGBTQIA+ ceremonies, gender-affirming renamings, themed weddings/funerals, and non-human companion rituals—and links this to narrative, performance, and research. Ian shares an impactful experience from attending the São Paulo Pride event. connecting this to the need for ongoing queer resistance and legacy. They also outlines creating Leeds rainbow plaques and trails marking queer history, and defines events as ruptures that reveal power and enable change.02:40 Studying Death Stories04:19 Tourists at Funeral06:06 Death Industry Insights07:06 Celebrancy New Career14:03 Rituals and Liminality16:53 Living Funerals Trend17:43 Sao Paulo Pride Story22:09 Queer Legacy Projects28:01 Critical Event Studies32:10 Comedy and FarewellIan's edited book: Death and EventsUpcoming: International Critical Autoethnographic Perspectives on Death

In this episode, hosts Dr. Lauren Siegel and Dr. Rami Shamseen speak with Dr. Agnieszka Rydzik(University of Lincoln) and Dr. Maria Gebbels (University of Greenwich) about their forthcoming book, Central and Eastern European Women Academics in the UK: Making Britain Home (out 20 March 2026). Originating from reflections on the 20th anniversary of the 2004 EU expansion and stereotypes about Eastern European women, the project gathered 29 first-person chapters by 30 authors, spanning PhD students to professors, to “give voice” to personal yet political experiences of migration, academia, language, and belonging. Contributors use diverse formats beyond essays, including poems, photography, collage, paintings, soundscapes, and dialogue. 01:27 Origin Story and EU Migration02:49 A Personal Political Anthology05:52 Trust and Writing Vulnerably06:51  Authors' personal stories15:25 Creative Formats and Methods23:12 Language Identity and Accents24:06 Diversity Across Backgrounds26:19 Surprises Hope and Belonging29:20 Who the Book Is For30:22 Closing Thoughts

In this episode, Dr Lauren Siegel and Dr Chen Yang speak with Dr Ewa Krolikowska-Adamczyk and Dr Robert Arnett Robson about drama-based teaching techniques for higher education. They define drama-based techniques as using elements from acting—such as voice, body, classroom space, props, humour, and performance skills—to enhance teaching and student engagement, emphasising that attention is a key resource for lecturers. Ewa outlines three focal techniques from their work: sketches (short humorous scenarios), soliloquies (voicing a character’s internal thoughts aloud), and storytelling delivered with dramatic elements to create a memorable “wow factor.” They stress inclusivity by depicting relatable scenarios that do not alienate diverse students and explain their focus is primarily on lecturers using these techniques rather than requiring students to perform. Ewa shares her drama and theatre undergraduate background, while Rob describes an informal performance interest developed through corporate training and his doctorate in education on drama-based techniques; they explain how they connected with colleague Kevin Williams and now collaborate as “Act One Education.” They discuss applicability across disciplines (including nursing, science, engineering, and medicine), advise hesitant or introverted educators to start with small performance tools and remain authentic. They position drama as one tool within a broader teaching toolkit and plan to write more due to a gap in higher-education-focused research, and future research on barriers and fears that prevent educators from adopting these techniques.01:09 What Are Drama-Based Teaching Techniques?01:46 The Real Reason Drama Works: Winning Student Attention03:05 The Big 3 Techniques Explained: Sketch, Soliloquy & Storytelling05:39 Do Students Have to Perform? ‘Acting for the Non-Actor’06:34 Workshop Storytime: The Skit That Hooked the Room (No More Death by PowerPoint)08:23 How Ewa, Rob & Kevin Found Each Other (and Built Act One Education)11:32 From Corporate Training to Global Classrooms: Drama Across Cultures14:39 Can Drama Work in Any Subject? Real Classroom Examples16:50 Nervous or Introverted? Start Small with Props, Space & Baby Steps22:30 Making Learning Memorable (and Not Over-the-Top): Drama as One Tool in the Toolkit26:39 Workshops Beyond Greenwich + Building a Community of Practice28:59 What’s Next: Future Research, Barriers & Spreading the Word

In this episode, Dr. Lauren Siegel and Dr. Rami Shamseen are joined by Dr. Elisa Pannini to discuss labor unions, employment legislation, and workplace conditions. Dr. Pannini shares her journey into labor market research and talks about the significance of platform work as a major shift in the labor market. The conversation explores how unions are adapting to represent precarious and marginalized workers, the evolving landscape of labor regulations, and how technology is influencing labor dynamics. Dr. Pannini also highlights her upcoming research on the use of AI and algorithmic management in call centers and its implications for workers.01:06 Dr. Pannini's Research Journey03:02 Impact of Platform Work on Labor Markets04:19 Union Efforts in Organizing Precarious Workers05:15 Challenges and Opportunities in Worker Organization10:08 Education and Workers' Rights17:48 Global Labor Market Dynamics21:40 Unions and Democracy24:12 Future Research and Conclusion

In this episode, Dr Lauren Siegel and Dr Rami Shamseen are joined by Dr Laura William, an Associate Professor of Employment Relations and Equality. They discuss the employment challenges faced by disabled individuals, exploring why disabled people are more likely to be made redundant and how they struggle to re-enter the labor market. Dr William shares her personal and research experiences, highlighting the substantial employment gaps and legal barriers, including the 'medical model' of disability and the lack of legal representation in employment tribunals. The discussion also touches upon Dr William’s book, 'Claiming Disability Discrimination: Assessing Barriers to Justice,' and her groundbreaking database that maps out patterns in employment tribunal judgments. The episode concludes with insights into Dr William’s future research on intersectional discrimination.00:51 Dr Laura William's Journey into Socio-Legal Studies02:12 Evolution of Disability Law02:56 Employment Gaps and Discrimination04:14 Barriers to Justice for Disabled People10:49 Challenges in Proving Disability18:12 Mental vs. Physical Disabilities in Employment20:44 Importance of Disclosing Disabilities25:23 Creating a Disability Discrimination Database26:14 Future Research DirectionsRead Laura's new book: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-74387-0

In this episode Dr Lauren Siegel and Dr Rami Shamseen are joined by Dr Maria Gebbels, Associate Professor in hospitality management at the University of Greenwich. The discussion centers around The Clink Charity, which operates fine dining restaurants inside working prisons where inmates are trained as chefs and front-of-house staff. The conversation covers The Clink's innovative approach, its significant social impact, the benefits it offers to both prisoners and the public, and Dr Gebbels' research on the transformative effects of this program. The episode also touches on the broader implications for rehabilitation and employment prospects for ex-prisoners.00:18 Meet Dr Maria Gebbels01:14 Understanding Critical Hospitality02:26 The Clink Charity: Fine Dining in Prisons04:17 How The Clink Charity Operates08:40 Impact on Prisoners and Public Perception18:29 Research Findings and Future Directions

In this episode, host Dr Lauren Siegel and guest host Dr Ryan Yung are joined by Dr Hyunjoo Lim to discuss the vital role of social media presence for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs). Hyunjoo explores her recent research on ad repetition and social media interactions, highlighting how consistent exposure and peer engagement can enhance website traffic and sales. The discussion underscores the importance of SMEs maintaining an active social media presence and provides practical insights into starting and optimising social media marketing efforts. Real-life anecdotes and successful examples further illustrate the potential of social media in driving business growth.00:37 Discussion on Social Media Marketing01:05 Research on Ad Repetition and Effectiveness05:41 Practical Implications of the Study05:46 Power of Peer Influence in Social Media08:08 Organic Content and Viral Success Stories11:33 Target Audience and Platform Relevance13:00 Getting Started with Social Media Advertising18:17 Hiring Content Creators and Social Listening

In this episode, hosts Dr Lauren Siegel and Dr Ryan Yung are joined by Dr Shahper Richter, a senior lecturer in marketing at the University of Auckland, New Zealand. They discuss the integration of AI tools in education, focusing on the use of chatbots named Jack and John. These digital tutors assist students with their learning by providing personalized support and answering queries in real-time. Dr Richter shares insights on how different student demographics interact with these AI tools and emphasises the importance of teaching students to use AI ethically and critically. The conversation also covers the impact of AI on educational practices and the role of educators in this evolving landscape. The episode offers valuable perspectives on navigating AI's challenges and opportunities in higher education.01:29 Exploring Digital Avatars in Education04:30 Chatbots and Personalised Learning06:36 Challenges and Ethical Considerations10:23 Integrating AI in Assessments18:24 The Role of Educators in the AI Era21:22 Critical Thinking and AI24:56 Prompt Engineering and Best Practices

In this episode, hosts Dr. Lauren Siegel and Dr. Rami Shamsi welcome Dr. Octavio Murekian to discuss his fascinating research on inconspicuous or low-key consumption. Dr. Murekian explains the concept's origins and its evolution from conspicuous consumption, particularly in the context of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Driven by security concerns, upper middle-class Argentines adopt subtle luxury to avoid being targeted by criminals while still signaling their status. The discussion extends to how rising crime rates globally, including in London, might influence consumer behavior towards more inconspicuous consumption. Dr. Murekian also hints at future research directions, including exploring the psychological impacts of security products marketed as calm-inducing. 00:23 Welcome to the Podcast 00:35 Introducing Dr. Octavio Murekian 00:57 Understanding Inconspicuous Consumption 01:14 Historical Context and Evolution 03:36 Motivation Behind the Research 03:50 Fieldwork Insights from Argentina 04:56 Security Concerns and Consumption 07:57 Personal Experiences and Observations 09:13 Global Perspectives on Security and Consumption 11:00 Broader Implications and Market Response 20:39 Future Research Directions 21:43 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements

In this episode, Dr. Lauren Siegel and Dr. Rami Shamseen invite Dr. Shreyashi Chakraborty to discuss her research on gender inequality in the Indian software industry. Dr. Chakraborty shares personal experiences and systemic issues leading to gender bias, including societal patriarchy, lack of anti-discrimination laws, and underrepresentation of women in senior management. The discussion also highlights shocking recent events, such as the tragic case of a female doctor in Calcutta, and the challenges faced by women in both formal and informal sectors. Dr. Chakraborty further explains her ongoing research initiatives targeting investor reactions to female representation in top management and the conditions of women in India's informal economy. If you are interested in Dr. Chakraborty's work, please check her recent publications:  Rationales of gender diversity management policies and practices in India: An exploratory empirical study in the Indian IT/ITeS Industry⁠https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/edi-04-2019-0124/full/html⁠ How do markets react to women leader: An IPO Investigation⁠https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/abs/10.1142/13473#page=416⁠ Safe and suitable yet unequal for women: understanding the inequalities in the hiring process in the Indian Software industry⁠https://www.e-elgar.com/shop/gbp/research-handbook-on-inequalities-and-work-9781800886599.html?srsltid=AfmBOoqEwmMKYMFS5DrDMDr7aM73OlwnwjamQjJkxJiX-HRxMAMS2WbJ⁠ 00:38 Welcome to the Podcast 01:14 Guest Introduction and Research Background 03:28 Current Gender Inequality in Indian Software Industry 07:25 Shocking Incident in Calcutta 10:35 Challenges in Speaking Up 14:20 Recruitment and Selection Inequalities 20:13 Field Work Insights 21:44 Importance of Equal Representation 25:22 Diversity Management in India vs. Developed Economies 27:34 Ongoing Research and Future Directions 35:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts  

In this episode of the 'In the Meantime' podcast, hosts Dr. Lauren Siegel and Dr. Rami Shamseen discuss with Dr. Wenjie Cai the concept of digital free travel. Dr. Cai explains the difference between digital detox and digital free travel, emphasising a balanced relationship with technology. The conversation covers Dr. Cai's research on digital-free travel, its impact on travellers, and the collaboration with the 'unplugged cabin' initiative. They also delve into the emotional journey and withdrawal symptoms participants experience, the societal implications, and future steps to promote digital wellbeing in hospitality and tourism. Dr. Cai emphasises the importance of preparing for a digital detox to ensure a positive experience and highlights ongoing research projects and potential developments in creating digital free destinations. If you are interested in Dr.Cai's research, please find his publications below: Cai, W., & McKenna, B. (2021). Power and Resistance: Digital-Free Tourism in a Connected World. Journal of Travel Research. https://doi.org/10.1177/00472875211061208   Cai, W., McKenna, B., & Waizenegger, L. (2020). Turning it off: Emotions in digital-free travel. Journal of Travel Research, 59(5), 909-927. https://doi.org/10.1177/0047287519868314 ​ Floros, C., Cai, W., McKenna, B., & Ajeeb, D. (2019) Imagine being off-the-grid: Millennials' Perceptions of Digital-Free Travel, Journal of Sustainable Tourism.  https://doi.org/10.1080/09669582.2019.1675676 ​ McKenna, B., Waizenegger, L., & Cai, W. (2020). The influence of personal and professional commitments on digitally disconnected experiences. In IFIP International Conference on Human Choice and Computers (pp. 305-314). Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-62803-1_24   00:11 Meet Dr. Wenjie Cai 00:50 Understanding Digital Free Travel 02:09 The Unplugged Cabin Experience 06:26 Emotional Responses to Digital Detox 08:38 Practical Tips for Digital Detox 17:58 Exploring the Dark Side of Digital Detox 27:44 Future Research and Collaborations 28:34 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode, our hosts Dr. Lauren Siegel and Dr. Rami Shamseen engage in a compelling discussion with Dr. Ryan Yung, a senior lecturer in digital innovation and transformation. The conversation covers various aspects of the metaverse, its distinction from virtual worlds, and its emerging real estate market. Dr. Yung unpacked his research on virtual reality (VR) and its applications, particularly in tourism and event management. The episode highlights the potential and challenges of VR, including accessibility and financial barriers, and explores the role of VR in enhancing experiences for families, individuals with disabilities, and even PTSD therapy for war veterans. The discussion also touches on the environmental impact of virtual meetings and the future of VR in potentially replacing physical travel and events. 00:45 Welcome to the In the Meantime Podcast 01:26 Meet the Hosts and Guest 03:28 Dr. Ryan Yung's Journey into VR Research 05:51 Applications of VR in Tourism 10:19 The Rise and Impact of the Metaverse 16:37 Challenges and Downsides of VR and the Metaverse 33:26 Future of Virtual Events and Meetings 41:48 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements

In this episode, hosted by Dr. Rami Shamseen and guest host Dr. Ryan Yung, Dr. Lauren Siegel, the usual co-host, steps into the guest role to discuss her research on social media's impact on travel behaviour. Dr. Siegel discussed the concepts of Instagram tourism and social media induced tourism, exploring how social media influences travel destinations and the nuanced impacts on those locations. She shares insights from her past studies, including the role of peer influence on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, and highlights the motivations and behaviors of social media induced travelers. The discussion also addresses the economic, environmental, and social impacts on local communities and businesses. The episode concludes with practical advice for travelers and destinations to mitigate negative impacts and promote more sustainable tourism practices. If you are interested in Dr.Siegel's work, please check her recent publications: Siegel, L. A., Tussyadiah, I., & Scarles, C. (2023). Exploring behaviors of social media-induced tourists and the use of behavioral interventions as salient destination response strategy. Journal of destination marketing & management, 27, 100765. DOI: 10.1016/j.jdmm.2023.100765. Siegel, L.A., Tussyadiah, I., & Scarles, C. (2022). Cyber-physical traveler performances and Instagram travel photography as ideal impression management. Current Issues in Tourism, DOI:10.1080/13683500.2022.2086451. Siegel, L.A., Tussyadiah, I.P. and Scarles, C. (2020) Does Social Media Help or Hurt Destinations? A Qualitative Case Study, e-Review of Tourism Research (eRTR), 17(4), pp. 571-580. Link: https://ertr-ojs-tamu.tdl.org/ertr/article/view/541.  Siegel, L.A. and Wang, D. (2019) Keeping Up with the Joneses: Emergence of Travel as a Form of Social Comparison among Millennials, Journal of Travel and Tourism Marketing, 36(2), pp. 159-175. DOI: 10.1080/10548408.2018.1499579.  01:14 Dr. Lauren Siegel's Research on Social Media and Tourism 06:54 Impacts of Social Media Induced Tourism 15:55 Technological Advances and Travel Photography 26:14 Managing the Effects of Social Media Tourism 29:21 Conclusion and Future Research Directions  

In this episode, Dr. Nikki MacLeod discusses her newly published book, 'Literary Fiction Tourism,' explaining literary tourism as travel inspired by interest in stories or authors. She shares her background in English literature and tourism, her research findings, and offers various examples of literary tourism around the world. The discussion touches on Edinburgh's Harry Potter connections, the impact of multimedia on literary tourism, and the intersection of literary and popular culture tourism. If you are interested in Dr MacLeod's work and want to explore further, please check her new book "Literary Fiction Tourism: Understanding the Practice of Fiction Inspired Travel' 00:42 Meet Dr. Nikki MacLeod: Expert in Literary Fiction Tourism 01:12 Understanding Literary Fiction Tourism 01:50 Dr. MacLeod's Journey into Literary Tourism 03:39 The Literary Heritage of Edinburgh 04:50 Harry Potter's Influence on Edinburgh Tourism 10:12 Types of Literary Tourism 17:48 The Power of Visual and Literary Combination 22:15 Global Examples of Literary Tourism 26:50 Future of Literary Tourism and Digital Integration

In this episode, our hosts welcome Dr Isabella Ye, a senior lecturer at the University of Greenwich who specialises in travel and hospitality research. Dr Ye discusses her research on travellers' mobility and the impact of passport power on cross-border travel. Drawing from personal experiences, she highlights the contrast between strong and weak passports, emphasizing the barriers faced by holders of weaker passports, especially those from politically unstable regions. The conversation covers topics such as the inequities at border controls, the psychological and financial stresses of travel for weak passport holders, and the ethical implications of the global passport hierarchy. The episode also touches on broader issues, such as stateless individuals and the differences between nationality and citizenship, advocating for more inclusive border policies and humane treatment of travellers. If you are interested in this topic, please check Dr.Ye's paper 'Contested tourists' border-crossing experiences' published on Annals of Tourism Research. 00:22 Guest Introduction: Dr. Isabella Ye 01:04 Personal Experiences with Travel 02:39 Passport Power and Inequality 06:43 Impact of Weak Passports on Well-being 09:43 Border Control Challenges 14:19 Statelessness and Marginalised Communities 17:05 Advocating for Travel Mobility 21:26 Unexpected Research Findings 24:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Dr Lauren Siegel and Dr Rami Shamseen introduce the 'In The Meantime' podcast, aimed at making academic research accessible and engaging. They discuss their intent to demystify complex research topics, focusing on diverse areas such as virtual worlds, literary tourism, Instagrammable places, digital-free travel, passport power, gender pay gap, and low-key consumption. The podcast is designed for anyone interested in learning about new trends and ideas without the jargon of academic papers, with episodes concise enough to fit a 20-25 minute commute. Despite acknowledging the saturated podcast market, they believe their podcast will find its audience by providing meaningful insights from academic research in an engaging way.