On The Sofa With Rouge

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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