A new Australian television series, Memory Bites with Matt Moran, is set to challenge traditional network funding models when it premieres on Monday, March 10. Unlike conventional productions, the show is financed through private investment, offering a fresh approach to creating commercially viable television.
The series, led by renowned Australian chef Matt Moran, combines culinary arts with personal storytelling. Each episode features a celebrity guest who shares a cherished memory tied to food, as Moran recreates the dish associated with that moment. Memory Bites also introduces a new financial model for Australian television by seamlessly embedding brands into the viewing experience.
A Vision Brought to Life
The concept for Memory Bites was originally pitched by Shaun Murphy, a former Warner Bros TV executive and the founder of Big Owl Pictures. Moran immediately saw the potential in the idea.
“Memory Bites is special because food isn’t just about what’s on the plate—it’s about the memories, people, and stories behind it. When Shaun shared the concept, I knew I wanted to be part of it,” Moran said. “This series goes beyond cooking; it’s about connection. Bringing personal stories to life and engaging audiences beyond the screen makes it an exciting and unique project.”
Entrepreneur and investor Alexandra Jakob joined as an independent co-funder and co-producer, partnering with Moran and Murphy to finance the series outside of traditional network backing. Jakob, known for founding successful businesses like BondiBoost and Little Learning School, sees the show as the first step in a larger vision.
“These are deeply personal food memories—stories that will resonate with audiences worldwide,” Jakob explained. “With Matt and Shaun, my private investment firm, Globe Wealth, is building a global food entertainment brand that extends beyond the screen, allowing audiences to experience the series in new ways.”
Murphy praised Jakob’s innovative approach to financing, calling it a “groundbreaking” model that supports high-quality production while offering investors a new opportunity to enter the entertainment industry.
Innovative Marketing and Brand Integration
Jakob and Murphy, along with Zoe Kapsalis, partnerships director at Big Owl Pictures, have developed a unique marketing ecosystem that moves beyond traditional sponsorships. Brands are woven directly into the storytelling, making them a seamless part of the viewing experience.
One of the standout integrations is a collaboration with meal-kit delivery service Marley Spoon. Audiences can order 13 recipes inspired by meals cooked on the show, allowing them to recreate the dishes in their own kitchens after each episode airs.
Other key partnerships include Ninja, a leader in kitchen and outdoor appliances, whose Detect Kitchen System Power Blender + Processor Pro is prominently featured in the series, and Pepperjack Wines, which pairs select varietals with the showcased dishes.
A New Era of TV Financing
With global content licensing discussions already in progress, Memory Bites signals a shift in television funding and monetization. Rather than relying solely on ratings, creators and investors are exploring multiple revenue streams and long-term brand engagement around the intellectual property of a series.
The launch campaign for the series is being managed by PR agency Agent99, reinforcing the show’s position as a trailblazer in food entertainment.
As the television industry evolves, Memory Bites stands as a testament to the power of private investment in bringing innovative content to life.
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