You're listening to the Shitlarks podcast, your guide to a more stylish life.

Welcome to this week's In Conversation Podcast with me Charlotte Collins. Today I'm joined by Natasha

Sedaris. Natasha is the founder and CEO of Tasha's group, a casual dining

concept that started life in South Africa in 2005, but has since expanded into the UAE

where Natasha now lives. A passionate businesswoman and third generation

hospitality entrepreneur. She joins me today to talk about where it all started, what

comes next and the lessons she's learned along the way. Welcome. Oh thank you for having me. I feel like I should

preface this by saying this came about because Georgie, our founder, was out in Dubai, came to one of your

restaurants. Bangalore 34. Bongo-34. Bongo-34 and basically came back just like raving in a way I've never heard

her rave about anyone before just saying what a fabulous concept it was how

incredible I mean every part of it the design and food and how impressed she was by you so

it was very nice to meet her here we are I'm glad you enjoyed it evening we

should also say you are soon to open a restaurant in Battersea Power Station we are soon to open a restaurant in Battersea Power Station.

The nerves are at an all-time high.

Super nervous even though we've got 35 restaurants.

I mean everyone is nerve-wracking.

This one is especially nerve-wracking.

Why is that?

I think the UK is a very competitive market and in addition to that I think there are massive barriers

to entry.

When we moved out of South Africa to open our first international restaurant, we were looking at the UK and I got scared. I'm still a bit frightened.

I think that major staff issues, rentals are high. You know, we're lucky with food. I think you guys

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