One of the lovely things about being in our younger years is that we are not yet burdened with experience. Experience is a wonderful thing, but sometimes it can fill us full of warnings about things we’re considering doing.

But without that filter, we absolutely believe that anything is possible, so when 21 year old Maddie Beaumont and her relatively new partner, Ben Porter, were presented with the opportunity to take on the lease of a local pub, they were instantly interested.

They’d both worked in pubs previously, they knew they were hard workers and, unburdened by the knowledge of what lay ahead of them, they really couldn’t see a reason not to give it a go. It was a huge decision for them both, and it’s most definitely not been an easy ride.

But taking that leap and believing in themselves, has led to being in a career they absolutely love and, 6 years later, The Cotley Inn is now a foodie destination for customers from all over the country, having won prestigious awards like the Visit England Pub of the Year, Trencherman Award listings, AA Rosettes and a prestigious Michelin Guide listing.

Chatting to Maddie about her journey was so interesting, she’s a very perceptive lady who loves to reflect and learn, so the philosophies that she shared as we chatted provide really useful life and work advice.

If you’re in South Somerset any time, please do make sure you pay The Cotley a visit, it will absolutely be worth the trip and if you over-indulge, you can always choose to stay in one of the four beautiful boutique bedrooms at the pub.

0.00 Introduction and Maddie’s hospitality journey

6.30 There’s no overnight success!

9.30 Diversification and expansion

12.30 Balancing food and drink

15.30 Hospitality as a career

24.30 Awards and amazing team

27:30 Navigating challenges and enjoying success

Thank you for listening!