Curiosity in the Food Industry: Why Fearless Leaders Ask More Questions

Ever felt out of your depth in a big meeting, worried you’ll look silly if you ask a question? You’re definitely not alone. Amy and Bethan kick things off by shining a light on those moments of fear—reminding us that most people in the room are too busy worrying about their own questions to notice yours!  Bethan draws from her journalism career, explaining how curiosity is non-negotiable if you want to really get to the heart of things (and why it’s okay to not know all the food industry acronyms!). The episode explores why asking questions is so powerful: it supports personal growth, drives business innovation, and builds real connections across departments. Amy unpacks the science behind our deep-seated fear of being “cast out of the pack”—hello, evolutionary fight-or-flight—and how to reframe those nerves so you don’t freeze up.  Additionally, the duo provides practical tips on making it safer for everyone to speak up, from rephrasing how you frame questions (“What questions do you have?” instead of “Does that make sense?”) to normalising not knowing everything as a leader. Bethan and Amy also touch on our growing reliance on AI for answers—celebrating its usefulness but warning against losing those all-important human skills of communication and genuine curiosity.  And, in classic Fearless Foodie fashion, the episode ends with a challenge: ask one question you’re scared to ask this week because Fearless Foodies don’t let the fear of tigers (or awkward silences) stop real progress.   Timestamps 00:00 Embracing Uncertainty in Leadership 06:06 Encouraging Curiosity for Innovation 09:24 Overcoming Silos Through Collaboration 11:27 Effective Question Framing Techniques 16:34 "Understanding Intent at Work" 20:07 "Coaching Through Questioning" 24:00 "Embrace Curiosity, Ask Questions" 25:07 AI's Impact on Human Skills 27:43 "Seeking Emotion Through AI" 31:13 Unleash Your Fearless Spirit Links and Resources: https://fearlessfoodies.co.uk/podcast/overcoming-barriers-in-the-food-industry-with-bethan-grylls/ https://fearlessfoodies.co.uk/podcast/thriving-in-the-food-industry-how-let-them-thinking-elevates-your-career/ Website Link: https://fearlessfoodies.co.uk FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/thefearlessfoodiepod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thefearlessfoodiepod You can follow us here on Instagram: @thefearlessfoodiepod Find Amy on Instagram or LinkedIn for further support with industry coaching and facilitation. Microsearch Laboratories sponsor the Fearless Foodie Podcast https://micro-search.co.uk/