
#141 The True Cost of Doing Business
In this episode, Sam and Calen look at how changes in the economy affect independent businesses. They discuss minimum wage, how consumer income drives sales, and what it takes to promote your business today.
Episodes
132
Latest episode
Jun 2026
Language
EN
Join two Victoria, BC restauranteurs as they share the secrets of the industry. Bread & Butter is a peer-driven collective aimed at providing resources and tools for improved levels of performance, peer accountability, learning & growth, political advocacy along with guidelines for operating businesses and managing lifestyles that are meaningful and lasting. We believe that the hospitality industry has not been working for all stakeholders for a long time and that the cracks have been blown wide open by the COVID-19 crises leaving most business owners struggling to survive and concerned about the future. Bread and Butter also believes that we can work together to develop a better way forward with the creation of a progressive community committed to holistic improvement as our foundation. Sponsored by Big Wheel Burger: bigwheelburger.com Learn more about the Big Wheel Burger Community Foundation: bigwheelfoundation.org

In this episode, Sam and Calen look at how changes in the economy affect independent businesses. They discuss minimum wage, how consumer income drives sales, and what it takes to promote your business today.

In this episode, Sam and Calen share their thoughts on the latest political news. They focus on Canada’s welfare system and challenge the idea that social support holds an economy back. Instead, they explain how investing in people gives them the tools to grow, which ultimately builds a stronger country for everyone.

Sam and Calen sit down with Robynne Randall, the HR Manager at Big Wheel Burger. Robynne shares her professional journey navigating human resources in the local food industry. She also opens up about her personal experience using her voice to navigate the school system and advocate for her child with Down syndrome and autism.

This week, Ash Whelan from FED Urban Agriculture joins the show to discuss the future of city farming. Ash talks about transforming underutilized urban spaces, from contaminated lots to rooftops. We also look at how FED uses backyard garden shares and simple farming kits to make fresh, local produce accessible to everyone in the community.

Sam and Calen talk about the way the system is set up for the wealthy to succeed at the expense of others. They explore how the war with Iran is hitting the global economy and walk through the 11 steps of authoritarianism to discuss the current state of politics in the US.

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.
Claim this listing to keep it up to date, reach guests who want to pitch you, and manage bookings with Guestify.
Claim this listing