Common Threads: Season One of Bacon Butty

Ripple Media
Jun 22
3 min read

We launched Bacon Butty by asking one small question: how do you make your butty?

But as we invited ourselves into kitchens, cafés, and quiet conversations, we discovered the answers were much bigger than we imagined. Over six episodes, we’ve heard stories of immigration, burnout, resilience, reinvention, family, and identity — all wrapped around something as humble as a bacon sandwich.

And honestly? When we started, we had no idea what we were doing. We set out to create six episodes. That was the goal. And with every single one, we learnt a little more about podcasting, about storytelling — and about ourselves. Now all six are out in the world, and somehow, we've already recorded a whole second season.

Here’s a look back at Season One — and the moments that stayed with us:

🥟 Vicky Ha – House of Dumplings

“If someone told me I’m gonna have a dumpling business, I’d be like, 'Are you crazy?'”

Vicky spoke about the early hustle of being a migrant business owner, her evolving relationship with authenticity, and the story behind House of Dumplings’ name. She reflected on being both inspired and challenged by the business world and how she’s found a balance between pushing boundaries and staying true to herself.

🥯 Laura Greenfield – Field & Green

“Baking has always been part of my identity.”

Laura opened up about the loss of her mum, the drive that shaped her work ethic, and the way cooking has been her constant thread. She shared how memory, grief, and joy show up in the smallest rituals — like what you put in a sandwich — and how business ownership has made her both tougher and more self-aware.

🥖 Pierre-Alain Fenoux – Pastry Chef

“If I die tomorrow, at least I’m proud of that.”

Pierre took us into the mindset of a perfectionist-turned-parent. He talked about giving up control, rediscovering joy in imperfection, and learning to slow down. What used to be about chasing accolades is now about curiosity, flavour, and being more present — both in and out of the kitchen.

🍽️ Shaun Clouston – Logan Brown

“I love talking to people about food. You can do that forever.”

Shaun brought a sense of quiet clarity to the pod — speaking on legacy, listening, and learning from the new generation. He talked about the challenge of letting go of ego, the joy of mentorship, and the simplicity of still loving food after all these years.

🍔 Beth Brash – Visa Wellington On a Plate

“I think food is the gateway to empathy.”

Beth explored her love of Wellington, her journey from Levin to festival director, and the meaning behind shared meals. She reflected on making space for others, platforming new voices, and the power of listening — both as a programmer and a storyteller.

🐟 Martin Bosley – Chef & Writer

“The older I get, the more I care about where things come from and who’s behind them.”

Across two episodes, Martin opened up about his family, early career, burnout, and rebuilding a life outside the limelight. He reflected on slowing down, rediscovering curiosity, and why the butty felt like the most personal dish he’s cooked in a long time.

So what did we learn?

Whether it was loss, burnout, big wins, or quiet shifts, each guest offered something that hit deeper than the recipe. This season wasn’t just about how they make their butty — it was about why they do what they do.

From Vicky’s early hustle to Martin’s personal reinvention, what tied these stories together was heart. Hospo is built on it. It’s full of people who care — about flavour, about people, about culture, about doing things differently.

To every guest who shared with us — thank you. And to everyone who’s listened — you’re part of the ripple.

🎧 You can listen to all episodes now at ripplmedia.co.nz or wherever you get your podcasts.Proudly sponsored by @upstockapp and @woodysfarmnz.