Susan Bae x Me: Working It Out at Equinox Sports Club

Hey everyone, I’m Nycci Nellis, and welcome back to Industry Night, where we go behind the scenes with the people shaping how and why we eat and drink the way we do.

I’m so happy to be back here at City Ridge. This has become such a wonderful partnership and one of my favorite places in D.C. to tell real-time stories about food and the people building our hospitality scene.

Today’s show is coming to you from, Equinox Sports Club. Anyone who knows me knows I’m a big believer in taking care of both your body and your mind, so being in a gym for today’s conversation feels oddly perfect.

Because my guest is pastry chef Susan Bae. And if you’ve ever eaten her desserts, you know they’re so good you might need a workout just thinking about them. Talking pastry inside a gym? Honestly, on brand.

Susan and I had such a heartfelt conversation about her journey, her success, and how she prioritizes her mental health and the mental health of her team. We went deep, and what she shares really illuminates what chefs go through day in and day out to make perfection look effortless on the plate.

Later in the show, I was joined by Eve Vierra, the manager here at City Ridge. We chatted about how Equinox is designed to work out both our bodies and our minds. And yes, we will reward ourselves with dinner at Acqua Bistecca, because balance.

Let’s get into Susan. She is the Executive Pastry Chef and a founding partner of Moon Rabbit, North America’s Best Pastry Chef 2025, a two-time James Beard finalist, and a 2026 James Beard semifinalist. Beyond the accolades, Susan is one of the most original culinary storytellers working right now, and I’m so excited for you to hear this conversation.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction
02:36 - "North America's Top Pastry Chef"
04:07 - "Struggles of Immigrant Roots"
09:44 - Chef Creativity Fuels Culinary Innovation
11:13 - "My Father Inspires Me"
14:49 - Creative Freedom in Vietnamese Desserts
17:47 - "Exploring Heritage and Durian"
20:07 - "Moon Rabbit's Inclusive Kitchen"
25:03 - Green Curry-Inspired Dessert Creation
28:39 - Leadership, Growth, and Mental Health
31:51 - Caring for Our Community
35:47 - "Always Learning and Growing"
38:30 - "From Dance to Fitness Journey"
41:00 - "Equinox: Cleanliness and Wellness Pillars"
44:17 - "Making Fitness Accessible to All"
46:20 - "Stay Connected and Engaged"
47:00 - Outro

Quotes:

Nycci Nellis:
"Be intentional with your circle, your choices, and your leadership. You lift everyone at the table, including yourself."

Susan Bae:
"Greatness comes from staying curious and learning from those who inspire you."

Eve Barrera:
"Make space to move, connect, and care for yourself—your strongest self will shine through."

Key Takeaways:

Chasing Passion Over Perfection
Redefining Desserts Through Heritage
Building Intentional Teams & Inclusive Kitchens
Embracing Challenges and Growth
Community, Wellness, and Holistic Health
Grace in Uncertain Times

Guests Social Media Links:

Susan Bae’s Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/susanbae/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/moonrabbitdc/?hl=en
Website:https://www.moonrabbitdc.com/
Filming Location: https://www.equinox.com/clubs/washington-dc/sportsclubwashingtondc

Featuring Nycci Nellis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nyccinellis/
Website: https://www.thelistareyouonit.com/

Produced by Heartcast Media:http://www.heartcastmedia.com