Bread and Butter Collective Podcast

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 chef...

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 fo...

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 his...

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 com...

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...

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 t...

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 Victo...