Bread and Butter Collective Podcast

 In part two, Andrew talks about what he learned from his tech experience with AI and why he is moving into the food industry. He shares his final insights on how to build a business that lasts in an ever changing market.

This week, we go behind the curtain with Victoria’s own Andrew Wilkinson. We dive into his success story that was years in the making, from his early days as a designer/programmer to his current role as a serial acquirer of world-class brands. Andrew shares the lessons he learned from his tech experience with AI, his foray into the food world, and his advice for anyone looking to build a business that lasts.

This week, it’s just Sam and Calen at the table, tackling the messy intersection of policy and the planet. They dive into the growing culture of political tribalism and the phenomenon of politicians switching parties.

What happens when two restaurateurs get fed up with their suppliers? They built their own company. This week, we’re joined by Chris Jameson and Clayton Frost of Canadian Box and Paper. Learn how they are bringing "home-spun comfort" values to the industrial world through direct-to-factory transparency and a commitment to eco-friendly, carbon-neutral logistics.

What does it take to sustain a culinary legacy? Sam and Calen sit down with Maryanne Carmack (Roast Victoria) and Cristen DeCarolis Dallas (Pizzeria Prima Strada) to discuss the delicate art of balancing a thriving business with a fulfilling life. Plus, Maryanne gives us the inside scoop on her exciting new collaboration at Phillips Brewing.  

Sam and Calen sit down with Diana Gibson to talk about how AI and social media are shaping the flow of information today. They also discuss the health tax that restaurants and the service industry pay, and what it means for businesses and workers across BC.

Sam and Calen dive into the latest controversies surrounding the files, exploring power, privilege, and accountability. They also discuss how BIPOC and anti-discrimination laws contribute to a fairer society and stronger communities, and why equitable systems help a country thrive.

Sam and Calen sit down with Dave Thompson, Victoria City Councillor, for an honest conversation about homelessness and the challenges facing the city. Drawing on his background in law, economics, climate policy, and governance, Dave shares his perspective on housing, public safety, and what it will take to build a more livable and sustainable Victoria.

Sam and Calen sit down with Maddison Violet, owner of Veohlay Acres, to talk about her journey into vineyard ownership and what it really takes to build a life in the wine industry. Maddison shares the challenges, lessons, and passion behind growing her business, along with insights for anyone dreaming of working the land or starting something of their own.

Calen and Sam take time to reflect on the whirlwind that was 2025. From navigating the ups and downs of running small businesses to revisiting some of the year’s most inspiring conversations, this final episode of Bread & Butter looks back on the lessons learned and looks ahead to what’s next.  

Chef Michael Williams joins The Bread & Butter Podcast in this week’s episode to share his journey from his first job in fast food as a teenager to becoming the owner of flourishing local business, Urban Forage. He talks about how his passion for food, combined with his commitment to supporting and strengthening local businesses, has resulted in incredible meals and a thriving business community.

This week on the Bread & Butter Podcast, we’re sitting down with Kirn Bawa, the Owner and Operator of Sizzling Tandoor Restaurant Group. Kirn talks about what it’s really like to run a local ethnic restaurant, the challenges that come with it, and why understanding how neighborhood restaurants operate makes all the difference  

In this week’s episode of Bread & Butter, Pelan Hospitality Co-Founder Madone Pelan shares her expert insights on the vital role downtown hotels play in shaping the economic and cultural landscape of Victoria. Tune in as we explore how hotels contribute to the vibrancy, growth, and overall success of the city’s core.

This Bread & Butter episode bridges the personal and the political including health scares, leadership, staff development, and the realities of entrepreneurship. Plus taking big-picture look at inequality, housing, corporate influence, and how communities can push for a fairer future.

Join us on this episode of Bread & Butter as we welcome hospitality strategist and industry innovator Shawn Soole, founder of Soole Hospitality Concepts (SHC). With more than two decades immersed in the craft, bar and restaurant world. Shawn brings a deep insight into building hospitality businesses that thrive. 

Sam and Calen sit down with olive oil sommelier and cookbook author Emily Lycopolus to uncover the secrets behind one of the world’s most misunderstood ingredients. From how long olive oil actually stays fresh, to what makes a truly great bottle, to the ancient groves of Europe. Emily shares her expertise, stories, and tips to help you never look at olive oil the same way again.

On this episode of Bread and Butter, co-hosts Calen McNiel and Sam Jones dive into the growing economic impacts of ongoing labour strikes across British Columbia. They explore how widespread disruptions are affecting local businesses, including the closure of Jones’ own 2% Jazz Coffee location at the Royal B.C. Museum.

This week on Bread and Butter, co-hosts Sam Jones and Calen McNeil sit down with Paul Stewart — Executive Chef at Kool-Aid and board member of Food Day Canada — for a thoughtful conversation about the many ways food brings people and communities together. From food production to preparing meals, they explore how food connects us, tells our stories, and strengthens community bonds.

In this episode of Bread and Butter, Calen and Sam look back on the highlights of a collaborative cooking experience. They also discuss the important role foreign workers play in the food industry and why these contributions matter.

In this episode of Bread & Butter, we head to the Cooks Camp event at a farm for an inspiring conversation with restaurateur and mentor Robert Belcham, Cooks Camp organizer.Calen and Sam, and metal artist Ryan Fogarty of Leechtown. From forging connections in the hospitality world to literal blacksmithing, the group dives into the meaning behind Cooks Camp, a grassroots event that brings chefs, makers, and mentors together to reconnect with craft, community, and the land.

Calen and Sam talk creativity, money, and meaning. Simple conversations about building a life that works, without losing what matters.

We sit down with Alistair Howes from FED Urban Agriculture to explore how food, community, and sustainability intersect in the heart of the city. Learn how FED is reshaping urban spaces and growing more than just produce.Learn more at www.get-fed.ca

In this episode of Bread and Butter, we tee up with Zamian Parsons — founder of the Pacific Sunday Tour and the creative force on a mission to design the best golf bag in the world. Zamian shares how his passion for golf, design, and functionality led to a brand that’s reimagining what a golf bag can be. From inspiration to innovation, we dig into the story behind the product, the mindset of a founder aiming for excellence, and what it takes to stand out in a traditional industry. A must-listen for creatives, entrepreneurs, and golf lovers alike.

In this episode of The Bread & Butter Podcast, Sam dives into the world of coffee, exploring everything from sourcing beans and climate conditions to the art of roasting.Grab a cup and join us!

In this episode of Bread and Butter, hosts Sam and Calen sit down with Maryanne Carmack from The Roast and Cristen Decarollis of Pizzeria Prima Strada. They dive into how their businesses approach team culture, wages, taxes, and healthcare benefits—sharing insights on building supportive, sustainable workplaces in the food industry.

In this episode, Sam and Calen talk about items on the menu, the importance of being creative when updating them, and how to adapt to changes in business and community needs.

After a summer break, Sam and Calen are back behind the mic. Calen shares stories from his trip to Las Vegas, how he got into poker, and what makes the game so mentally engaging. They also discuss what he noticed about the current atmosphere in the U.S., including reports of ICE activity near construction sites and road closures due to protests. A mix of cards, conversation, and current events.

In this bread-and-butter episode, we sit down with Ginger Henderson of Ginger Henderson Counselling Services to explore the foundations of mental health, the power of therapy, and what truly matters when supporting personal growth and well-being.

Bruce Williams is the outgoing CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce. He is currently set to step down from the position in June 2025. Williams has led the Chamber since June 2020, navigating the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic and other challenges.The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce was among the first Chambers in Canada to publicly acknowledge and apologize for its historical role in the social and economic suppression of Indigenous People. They also became the first Chamber to introduce an economic reconciliation membership program for Indigenous-owned businesses. 

In this episode, Sam and Calen sit down with Victoria City Councillor Dave Thompson for a candid conversation on two of the country's most pressing issues: housing and fossil fuels. From zoning challenges to green energy transitions, tune in for a deep dive into what’s shaping the future of our country.

Calen McNeil (Big Wheel Burger) is back from Cambodia & Europe with fresh insights! He joins Maryanne Carmack (The Roast) and Sam Jones (2% Jazz) to talk culture, food, and how global experiences are shaping local lifestyle. A must-listen episode of the Bread & Butter Podcast! 

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Chan, co-owner of Ghost Ramen, to talk about the journey of running a business in the heart of downtown. Jason shares the challenges and rewards of building a culinary brand in a vibrant urban space—and what crafting the perfect bowl of ramen truly means to him.

In this episode of Bread and Butter, Jeff Bray, the Executive Director of the Downtown Business Association in Victoria, BC, discusses the challenges local businesses face in attracting visitors downtown amidst ongoing issues. Bray explores the delicate balance between supporting vulnerable communities and creating a thriving, safe environment for businesses and tourists, shedding light on the complex socio-economic factors at play in Victoria’s downtown core.

In this episode of Bread and Butter, we sit down with Treska Watson, the Executive Director of The Mustard Seed in Victoria, BC, to discuss their impactful work in the community. Tune in to hear about their programs and the difference they are making. For more information, visit mustardseed.ca.

On this episode of Bread and Butter, Maryanne Carmack, president of the Bread and Butter Collective, and Dino Osmanovic, a talented food cook, dive into the evolving landscape of immigration laws in Canada. They discuss how recent changes to the LMIA and point system are impacting immigrants and businesses, especially those struggling to find workers. Tune in for insights on the challenges faced by both employees and employers in navigating this shifting environment.

In this podcast, Robert Belcham, co-owner of Popina Canteen, shares his journey in the culinary world, from building a unique dining experience to navigating the challenges of running a successful restaurant and tipping.

Join Sam and Calen in their analysis of the current political situation in North America and how it can affect business.

Tara Black, the CEO and sole owner of Origin Bakery, joins the Bread and Butter podcast to share her incredible journey in the world of baking.With over 15 years of leadership, Tara co-founded Origin Bakery in 2009 and became its sole owner in 2020. Starting her career in hospitality at just 13 years old, she honed her skills through culinary and pastry apprenticeships, shaping her expertise in the craft. Tune in as she discusses the art of baking, entrepreneurship, and the story behind her bakery.

In this episode, Andrew Moyer from Ottavio shares his experience in the service industry as well as beekeeping, and bee behaviour he has learnt throughout the years.

Sam and Calen are back to talk about changes in businesses and shrinking the size, they'll share their experiences and thoughts.

Mara Jernigan is a Canadian food and hospitality specialist with over 30 years of hands-on, international experience specializing in sustainability, local food and cultures. She shares her experience in the food industry and thoughts on food safety.Calen also shares an organization that works with food safety and teaching farming, for more information you can visit get-fed.ca

Join Sam and Calen as they dive into the essentials of business growth. In this episode, they unpack the power of promotions, combos, and discounts, helping you make sense of your system data, SOPs. Together, they explore how supporting local businesses not only strengthens the economy but can also drive your success. Tune in for actionable insights and advice to bring your business back to basics!

In this new episode, Calen and Sam welcome Victoria City Councillor and documentary filmmaker Krista Loughton for an insightful discussion on homelessness and the challenges surrounding shelters in Victoria and other municipalities.Krista shares her experiences working at the intersection of policy and personal stories, offering a deeper look into the crisis facing vulnerable communities in Victoria. This episode explores the realities of homelessness, the complexities of shelter systems, and the urgent need for compassionate, sustainable solutions.

We have Alistair Howes from Get Fed Urban Agriculture sharing his experience with produce, restaurants, volunteering, food safety and much more!

Elections, new politics, inflation, taxes, changes in costs, preparing your business for changes and much more!

Changes, politics, elections, planning your business for the unexpected and much more!

In this episode, Chef Castro the owner of House of Boateng, shares his journey and experience of becoming a chef as well as adapting his food to a new community.

Calen and Sam share their experience while closing stores, and what they have learnt from them.

Theresa Ito is the principal owner of Blue Mountain Solutions and is an experienced professional who is passionate about people and serves as a catalyst to them achieving their aims.The company is named Blue Mountain Solutions Inc. after the stunning mountain range in Jamaica. 

Solomon Siegel the owner of Pagliacci’s tells us the story of the restaurant and his experience in the hospitality industry.