On the Menu - Sam's Kitchen

We’re back with On the Menu with Rouge!This week, we’re chatting to the inspirational Chef Renu Ballantine — who swapped 25 years in the corporate engineering world for a life filled with food, creativity and entrepreneurship.Now a private chef, caterer, consultant and cooking-class host, Renu has turned her passion into a delicious new chapter — and she’s even written her own book, From Boardroom to Bouillabaisse! But how did she make the leap? What inspired her? And what’s she cooking up next?Tune in as we dish up Renu’s incredible story, her secrets to success and plenty of foodie inspiration!Sponsored by Chef Renu B. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this months podcast we get to meet a third-generation member of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Frederick John Pitto. His journey has taken him from Gibraltar to Sandhurst and on to operational service, including Afghanistan, before returning home to take command of the Regiment in 2024. But behind the uniform is a story about much more than military service. It is a story about ambition, responsibility, family, leadership and the constant challenge of staying grounded while carrying the expectations of those who came before you — and those who come after.In this episode, we explore John Pitto’s life and service: what drives him, what he hopes to achieve, the lessons that have shaped his leadership, and, perhaps most importantly, what keeps him grounded every day. This podcast is sponsored by Holland and Barrett Gibraltar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It took me six months to pin down Bishop Charles Azzopardi—better known to us all as Fr Charlie—and every moment of the wait was worth it.I spent nearly an hour chatting with him at St Theresa's, his beloved parish church, where he begins each day at 5.30am. During our conversation, he shared the story of his vocation, explaining how and why he became a priest, and reflecting on the many ways Our Lord has guided him throughout his life.As Bishop, his motto is "Listen to Him"—and anyone who meets Fr Charlie quickly realises that listening is exactly what he does. His humility, kindness and compassion shines through in everything he says and does.This was a truly heartwarming and inspiring conversation with a man we should all be incredibly proud to call our Bishop of Gibraltar. It was a great privilege for me to spend this time with Fr Charlie, and I'm sure you'll come away feeling the same admiration for this remarkable and genuinely wonderful human being. This podcast is sponsored by Holland and Barrett. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalia Rodríguez Ruiz is a Spanish diver, freediver, ocean communicator, and emerging marine conservation advocate from Cádiz, whose lifelong connection to the sea began in early childhood after seeing whales and dolphins in the Strait of Gibraltar. Driven by a passion for marine life, she earned her scuba certification at a young age, funding her first diving courses by creating and selling handmade clay marine animal sculptures—a project that later gained national media attention.Today, Natalia combines her studies in aquaculture with environmental education, marine conservation, and climate advocacy. She is an Ambassador for the European Climate Pact and has become a recognized voice for protecting marine ecosystems, particularly the cetaceans of the Strait of Gibraltar. Her work focuses on making ocean science accessible to young people and inspiring greater public engagement with marine conservation through storytelling, education, and hands-on experience.As a diver and supporter of the Nautilus Project, Natalia contributes to initiatives that promote ocean exploration, marine research, and public awareness of the underwater world. Her involvement reflects a commitment to using diving not only as a means of discovery but also as a platform for conservation and science communication. Natalia is dedicated to helping people understand the importance of healthy oceans and empowering the next generation to protect them. With thanks to the Nautilus Project. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Romina Mayani is the co-owner of Sam's Kitchen, Gibraltar's pioneering plant-based takeaway and restaurant. Together with her husband, Sam, they set out to prove that meat-free food can be bold, delicious and satisfying, creating a menu packed with incredible flavours, homemade sauces and recipes perfected from scratch.Join us as we talk about the journey behind Sam's Kitchen, what makes their food so special, and why they're changing the way Gibraltar thinks about plant-based eating.This episode is proudly sponsored by Sam's Kitchen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Rouge sits down with Giselle Carreras, Head of Therapeutic Services at the Care Agency in Gibraltar, for a powerful and insightful conversation about psychology, alcohol and drugs rehabilitation, resilience, and the vital therapeutic services supporting our community.Giselle has dedicated more than 24 years to working within our community, building a career centred around compassion, understanding, and helping others through some of their most challenging moments.Behind the professional role is a woman who has also faced her own personal life challenges. Through resilience, determination, and incredible tenacity, Giselle has navigated difficult times both at home and in her working life — experiences that have shaped the empathetic leader she is today.Her role involves leading a dedicated team responsible for supporting the psychological wellbeing of others and drugs & alcohol rehabilitation services — a complex, demanding, yet deeply rewarding responsibility. With professionalism and commitment, Giselle and her team provide essential support to many vulnerable and often overlooked members of our community.This fascinating conversation gives an insight into Gibraltar’s Drugs & alcohol rehabilitation services and psychology & therapeutic services within the Care Agency, the work carried out behind the scenes, the challenges faced, and the ongoing commitment required to protect and empower those who need it most.A story of compassion, strength, and people working tirelessly to make a difference.Sponsored by Holland & Barrett Gibraltar Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Henry and Priscilla Sacramento are admired members of the Gibraltar community, our very own National Treasures, known for their compassion, generosity, and lifelong dedication to helping others. Priscilla Sacramento devoted many years to education and special needs advocacy, serving as Headteacher of St Martin’s Special School and later as an Education Adviser for Special Educational Needs. Her work touched countless families and reflected her deep commitment to inclusion, care, and opportunity for all.Henry Sacramento dedicated more than 37 years to the Royal Gibraltar Police, where he became widely respected for his work in community policing, welfare support, and charitable outreach. He also plays an important role in promoting cultural understanding and humanitarian links between Gibraltar and Morocco through the Strait of Gibraltar Association. In recognition of their service to the community and the arts, they have both received the Gibraltar Medallion of Honour. Together, Henry and Priscilla are known for their altruistic spirit, warmth, and unwavering kindness. Their lives have been marked by service, empathy, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of others, making them deeply respected figures within Gibraltar and beyond. They really are one of a kind! This podcast is sponsored by Holland and Barrett Gibraltar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I remember Verdi Verdi as one of those places people talked about with genuine affection — less just a falafel spot and more a gathering place powered by personality, warmth and conversation. Idan Greenberg seemed to be at the centre of that energy: charismatic, endlessly chatty, passionate about ingredients, spice, texture and the simple joy of feeding people. The kind of restaurateur who made you feel like a regular even on your first visit. Join us On the Menu with Rouge and find out what Idan is up to these days and enjoy hearing about his love for cooking where his inspirations come from. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week On the Sofa With Rouge we’re joined by Gibraltarian writer and director, Ana Garcia Garnett. Ana is a documentary film director turned novelist, who also teaches yoga to both adults and kids. Drawing from both disciplines, Ana is now teaching Yoga and Creative Writing at both literary agencies and yoga studios across London, using both practices to inspire each other. Ana has written two novels, one of which is set in Gibraltar. Tune in to listen to this chat about the challenges and joys of working in these creative industries, and what it feels like to be at the cusp of achieving your dreams. Ana is running her first Yoga and Creative Writing retreat in Almeria this June, from the 6th - the 11th at Oru El Saltador. Visit Oruspace.co/retreats for more information or connect with Ana on instagram @anayogalondon or at www.yogawithana.co.uk. Listeners of On the Sofa with Rouge can enjoy this special discount code for £100 off the retreat: Retreat100! With thanks to Ana Garcia Garnett for sponsoring this podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron Monteverde showed extraordinary musical talent from the age of four, quickly earning recognition as a child prodigy. Under the guidance of renowned musician Felipe Campuzano, he developed not only technical skill but a deep and lasting love for the piano. It was during these formative years that Aaron discovered his true passion—playing, learning, and composing music—which soon grew into an all-consuming pursuit.His journey has been both inspiring and challenging. Despite facing obstacles and limited local support, Aaron has remained steadfastly true to himself and his artistic vision. He reflects that he might have achieved even more with greater backing, yet his dedication has never wavered. To this day, he continues to write, collaborate with other artists, and release beautifully expressive pieces that resonate with audiences.Known for his genuine warmth, strong family values, and natural musical gift, he brings both heart and authenticity to his work. His story is one of resilience, passion, and unwavering commitment to his craft—making this podcast an unmissable listen.With thanks to Holland & Barrett Gibraltar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.