In this inspiring episode, Filipino pastry chef Miko Aspiras takes us on a journey from his early days in the Philippines—where his passion for desserts was sparked by his aunt’s baking—to becoming a celebrated name in the global culinary scene. In this heartfelt conversation with host Tawnya Bahr, Miko opens up about the highs and lows of his career, from intense culinary competitions to the bold leap into entrepreneurship. He reflects on adapting to Australia's unique dessert landscape and how cultural roots continue to shape his innovative creations. Plus, Miko gives us a taste of his exciting new venture: a gelato brand that celebrates native Australian ingredients. This is a story of passion, resilience, and the sweet pursuit of purpose.

Key Takeaways:
Miko's passion for baking began at a young age, influenced by his aunt.
He believes in seizing every opportunity, no matter how small.
Competitions played a crucial role in his development as a chef.
Miko did not have a traditional mentor but learned from various experiences.
He emphasises the importance of adapting to different culinary cultures.
A desire for a better quality of life drove Miko's move to Australia.
He aims to introduce unique Filipino flavours to a broader audience.
Miko's new ventures include a cafe and a gelato brand.
He values the connection between chefs and local farmers.
Miko encourages aspiring chefs to find their passion as an anchor.

Standout Quotes:
"I think I can do this."
"I was on top of my game."
"You have to have that anchor."

This episode is proudly presented in partnership with UNOX Australia, leaders in smart oven innovation for commercial and residential kitchens. Learn more at www.unox.com and www.unoxcasa.com 

#Miko, #pastry #chef #desserts #Philippines #Australia #culinaryjourney #entrepreneurship #competitions #flavours #gelato 

In this inspiring episode, Filipino pastry chef Miko Aspiras takes us on a journey from his early days in the Philippines&mdash;where his passion for desserts was sparked by his aunt&rsquo;s baking&mdash;to becoming a celebrated name in the global culinary scene. In this heartfelt conversation with host Tawnya Bahr, Miko opens up about the highs and lows of his career, from intense culinary competitions to the bold leap into entrepreneurship. He reflects on adapting to Australia's unique dessert landscape and how cultural roots continue to shape his innovative creations. Plus, Miko gives us a taste of his exciting new venture: a gelato brand that celebrates native Australian ingredients. This is a story of passion, resilience, and the sweet pursuit of purpose.
Key Takeaways:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Miko's passion for baking began at a young age, influenced by his aunt.</li>
<li aria-level="1">He believes in seizing every opportunity, no matter how small.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Competitions played a crucial role in his development as a chef.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Miko did not have a traditional mentor but learned from various experiences.</li>
<li aria-level="1">He emphasises the importance of adapting to different culinary cultures.</li>
<li aria-level="1">A desire for a better quality of life drove Miko's move to Australia.</li>
<li aria-level="1">He aims to introduce unique Filipino flavours to a broader audience.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Miko's new ventures include a cafe and a gelato brand.</li>
<li aria-level="1">He values the connection between chefs and local farmers.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Miko encourages aspiring chefs to find their passion as an anchor.</li>
</ul>
Standout Quotes:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">"I think I can do this."</li>
<li aria-level="1">"I was on top of my game."</li>
<li aria-level="1">"You have to have that anchor."</li>
</ul>
This episode is proudly presented in partnership with UNOX Australia, leaders in smart oven innovation for commercial and residential kitchens. Learn more at <a href="https://www.unox.com">www.unox.com</a> and <a href="https://www.unoxcasa.com">www.unoxcasa.com</a>&nbsp;
#Miko, #pastry #chef #desserts #Philippines #Australia #culinaryjourney #entrepreneurship #competitions #flavours #gelato&nbsp;

Welcome to the Straight To The Source podcast, where leadership meets the future of food.

Hosted by two of Australia’s most respected food industry voices, Tawnya Bahr and Lucy Allon, the Straight To The Source podcast connects you directly with the changemakers shaping how we grow, source, and experience food.

With decades of experience spanning the kitchen, dining room, and boardroom, as chef, restaurateur, consultants, and educators, Tawnya and Lucy bring an insider’s lens to the challenges and innovations driving the industry forward.

From producers pioneering regenerative practices to hospitality leaders reimagining what sustainability means on the plate, each episode explores the strategies, stories, and leadership mindsets transforming the global food landscape and ensuring a thriving, sustainable food future for generations to come.

Get ready for bold ideas, honest conversations, and the kind of insights that move industries forward.

Follow, comment, and hit that bell for more Straight To The Source episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube.

To stay up to date, follow Straight To The Source on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Welcome to the Straight To The Source podcast, where leadership meets the future of food.
Hosted by two of Australia&rsquo;s most respected food industry voices, Tawnya Bahr and Lucy Allon, the Straight To The Source podcast connects you directly with the changemakers shaping how we grow, source, and experience food.
With decades of experience spanning the kitchen, dining room, and boardroom, as chef, restaurateur, consultants, and educators, Tawnya and Lucy bring an insider&rsquo;s lens to the challenges and innovations driving the industry forward.
From producers pioneering regenerative practices to hospitality leaders reimagining what sustainability means on the plate, each episode explores the strategies, stories, and leadership mindsets transforming the global food landscape and ensuring a thriving, sustainable food future for generations to come.
Get ready for bold ideas, honest conversations, and the kind of insights that move industries forward.
Follow, comment, and hit that bell for more Straight To The Source episodes on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/straight-to-the-source/id1610058270">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1FwFeGJI0wp15O9KiDn28c?si=20a9b788479446c7">Spotify</a> or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@straighttothesource7730">YouTube</a>.
To stay up to date, follow Straight To The Source on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/straight.to.the.source/?hl=en">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/straighttothesourcefoodtours">Facebook </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/straight-to-the-source/">LinkedIn</a>.