Why does this Matter?
4 out of 5 hospitality professionals are suffering from a mental health crisis.
Hospitality professionals dedicate themselves to serving others, but often at the expense of their own well-being. High stress, long hours, and a culture that prioritizes productivity over people have led to soaring rates of burnout, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse in our industry. Now, more than ever, we need to change the conversation, provide real, actionable support, and create healthier, more sustainable, joy-filled working environments. Sharing the stories of those who make the industry the unique place it is—by addressing it all—breaks down taboo walls and sparks important conversations.
I've lived it.
Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand the passion, resilience, and creativity that drive this industry — but I’ve also witnessed the unspoken struggles that too many professionals face behind the scenes. I have dealt with anxiety and depression, experienced a miscarriage while working, and navigated substance misuse with very little resources or support.
This industry has given me everything I cherish, despite the hurdles I’ve encountered.
Humanizing hospitality is my purpose, my passion.
Projects
[Un]Hospitable
We have just wrapped the proof of concept/short film.
Available Thanksgiving 2025
[un]Hospitable* is a raw, cinéma vérité-style documentary designed to spark uncomfortable yet necessary conversations in the hospitality industry.
With an intended run time of 60-75 minutes, it will tackle taboo topics like menstruation stigma, perimenopause struggles, pregnancy discrimination, endometriosis, the silent suffering of miscarriage, and more, shedding light on the unseen toll of the industry.
Through candid conversations with 12-15 women—chefs, restaurant professionals, and industry voices—alongside experts in healthcare, HR, and mental health, the film aims to break barriers, ignite conversation, and drive meaningful change in hospitality.
Total Funding Needed $175,000
Hospitality Bites Podcast
The hospitality industry is known for its high standards, achievements, and recognition.
However, these pressures of perfection and the constant need to be "on" have led to an industry-wide mental health issue that has been hidden for too long. It is time to raise awareness about these struggles, highlight smaller successes, and explore various career avenues within the industry.
This podcast features conversations with various hospitality experts, Michelin-starred chefs, Food Media Personalities, and mental health advocates, aiming to destigmatize, enlighten, and normalize a more realistic expectation of the industry.
Want to be a guest on the show or learn about sponsorship opportunities? Please click the link below.
Beyond The Burn Out
An upcoming live event and future full-scale series where I will travel and sit down with hospitality professionals to discuss their struggles, successes, and the urgent need for better mental health resources.
This immersive event, hosted in my hometown of Ocean City, MD, will focus on mental health wellness in hospitality. It will include a live panel, networking, food and drinks, and live music.
The goal is to use all remaining funds to bring these critical conversations to a larger platform, ultimately producing an entire series that amplifies these voices even further.
Total Funding Needed
$150,000
Testimonials about colleen Silk
Testimonials from guests of Hospitality Bites Podcast
Ryan Fey (The Grill Dads): "What a refreshing way to have a conversation. It's actually really nice to be able to do that."
Michael Tipps (Maverick Theory): "You're undoubtedly authentic and honest."
