The R3 Podcast

Episode 21: Running a Hotel in Administration

In this episode, we explore the high-stakes world of hotel administration with guest Peter Hales, Managing Director of M&T Hotel Management. When a hotel enters administration, the clock starts ticking—guests must still be served, staff need clarity, and the business must keep running while financial decisions unfold behind the scenes. Peter explains how specialist management teams step in to stabilise operations, work with insolvency practitioners, and quickly address priorities such as staffing, guest experience, supply chains, and cash flow. Through real-world examples, we discuss the tough decisions, hidden challenges, and strategic levers that can help turn a struggling hotel around—or at least keep it operating through the storm. If you’ve ever wondered what happens behind the scenes when a hotel hits financial trouble, this episode offers a rare insider’s view. Hosted by Alex Carver, R3's Senior Training Coordinator.  Discount code: PODCAST

Episode 20: Unmasking Deepfake Evidence - Essential Insights for Insolvency Practitioners

This episode explores the rise of deepfake evidence and its implications for insolvency practitioners, highlighting real-life cases and courtroom experiences. Charlotte Hill and Dr Tristan Jenkinson discuss the types of deepfake evidence encountered, including audio, video, and document forgeries, and explain key concepts such as fabrication and manipulation. Get the practical advice and red flags for identifying falsified evidence, stressing the growing challenges posed by AI-driven fraud.  Originally presented at R3's SPG Forum 2025.

Episode 19: COVID Challenges, Insolvency Realities - What was it really like to work on the frontline of business distress during the pandemic?

In this episode, R3 member Grace Whatman (Senior Vice President, AlixPartners), shares her firsthand experience of supporting companies and individuals through unprecedented uncertainty. With R3’s statement to the COVID Inquiry now public, we discuss how these lived experiences align with the key themes in the evidence — and what the profession hopes will come from the Inquiry’s work.

Episode 18: Proposal for Changes to the Insolvency (England and Wales) Rules 2016 Relating to Fees for CVL Liquidators

This episode gives a brief overview of R3's proposal to amend the Insolvency (England and Wales) Rules 2016 concerning CVL Liquidator fees. Join R3 GTC members Michelle Butler and Stephen Hill, to explore how widespread creditor apathy forces Insolvency Practitioners into costly court applications to obtain fee approval. The solution? A Statutory Fee for CVL Liquidators to streamline the process, reduce administrative burden, and ensure IPs get paid efficiently.

Episode 17: Special Situations and M&A

In this episode of the R3 Podcast, guest host Ceara Roopchand is joined by special guests Felix Connolly (BTG Advisory), Louise Durkan (Deloitte), and Ben Hughes (FRP Advisory) to dive into the world of special situations and M&A. Together, they explore the current mood of the market, the evolving role of private equity and how sector dynamics are shifting in today’s landscape.