Served Up

Naomi Ayala Collier is the Development Manager for CVH Spirits Americas, and a member of the United States Bartenders' Guild National Charity Foundation Board of Directors, where she serves as National Vice President . Naomi shares her perspective on the evolving hospitality industry and what it means to create meaningful, people-first experiences. She also highlights her commitment to giving...

Bobby DeMars, Founder & CEO of Blind Barrels, sits down with Eric and guest host Kyle McHugh and shares the inspiration behind his whiskey box blind sampling company, blending craftsmanship, storytelling, and a passion for elevated gifting. Bobby also shares his journey from USC football to becoming a game-changing advocate for college athletes' health & likeness rights via his docume...

Ian Burrell Global Ambassador for the category of Rum, shares his journey and what it takes to represent rum on the world stage. He dives into the artistry and tradition behind crafting exceptional rum. Ian also explores how the culture of rum connects people across continents and how storytelling elevates the spirits experience. He offers insights for enthusiasts and pros alike on appreciating th...

Ryan Mills, National Brand Ambassador for Luxco, has built a strong reputation as a successful whisky expert influencer, blending deep expertise with an engaging online presence that resonates with enthusiasts and newcomers alike. He shares his insights into the craft, culture, and evolving trends in whisky, drawing from years of hands-on experience. He also discusses his current role in the indus...

Peter Vestinos, celebrated hospitality expert and multi-bar owner, brings an experience-driven perspective to what makes hospitality memorable. He shares how he's built and sustained successful bar concepts that balance creativity, operations, and guest connection. He also offers candid insights into the evolving hospitality landscape

Paul Clarke, Editor-in-Chief at Imbibe Magazine, shares his journey into drinks journalism, tracing how curiosity and passion for storytelling shaped his career. He reflects on experiences and travels that have allowed him to explore beverage culture and hospitality from around the world. Paul discusses the trends, innovations, and traditions that continue to inspire him, highlighting the connecti...

Juan Muñoz-Oca, Estates Director & COO for Marchesi Antinori USA, reflects on stewardship, sustainability, and evolving the identity of the iconic Stag's Leap Wine Cellars in the heart of California wine country. He discusses how honoring terroir and embracing innovation shape the winery's elegant, award-winning wines. Juan also shares the many ways they plan to commemorate the 50th...

We're so excited to welcome Master of Wine & Master Sommelier Eric Hemer as the new co-host of Served Up! Get a preview of the chemistry, insights, and spirited conversations to come. We're so excited for this dynamic new chapter - coming March 11, 2026!

Kimberly Patton Bragg, beverage industry icon, reflects on the experiences that shaped her deep love for hospitality and service. She shares the pivotal moments in her journey that strengthened her leadership, resilience, and commitment to creating meaningful guest experiences. Through candid storytelling, she reveals how passion, perseverance, and purpose continue to guide her path

Angela Parker, Co-Founder & CEO of Realized Worth, discusses her journey and the vision behind empowering companies & teams to reach their full potential. She shares her insights on overcoming challenges, fostering growth, and creating sustainable strategies for businesses. She highlights the importance of mentorship and community in building lasting impact. Her strength for unlocking valu...

Dr. Dawn O'Neal, founder of New Dawn Distilling, shares her commitment to building a spirits brand rooted in sustainability and community impact. She speaks candidly about navigating the industry as a black woman founder while challenging traditional models of production and leadership. This conversation highlights her forward thinking approach to environmental responsibility, representation,...

Geoffrey Wilson, Turning Tables NOLA leader, shares how his journey in hospitality lead him to champion education and career advancement for the black and brown community. He speaks candidly about equity in our industry, the power of mentorship, and the importance of creating intentional pathways to leadership. He also reflects on how community, culture, and opportunity intersect to reshape the fu...

DeJorn Huffman opens up about her journey in the Chicago beverage scene, sharing lessons, challenges, and joys that shaped her path as she traversed her wide-ranging career from bartending, to liquor distribution, and now the spirits supplier side of the industry. DeJorn reflects on her deep love for the city, and how it inspires her work every day

Robin Nance is, simply put, an icon in the beverage professional community. She bridges the worlds of craft and visual art, revealing a creative process rooted in intuition, experimentation, and storytelling. Robin reflects on her career offering insight into how drinks can carry a meaning beyond the glass. She also shares how her instincts, taking risks, & the personal philosophy that shape h...

Jessica Taylor is the National Program Manager, Brand & Product Education for Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits Talent Development. She shares her personal journey from being a single mom working in hospitality, challenges she overcame, to the beautiful life and career she has created for herself and her family with intention. Jessica is the epitome of resilience, growth, and the power...

Laura DePasquale is the Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations for Artisanal Wine at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits and a Master Sommelier whose impact reaches far beyond the glass. Laura brings heart, intellect, and vision to everything she does - from championing people, elevating wine educationl, and driving meaningful growth for winemakers

Amy Kickham, Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resource Officer at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits, is a people first leader known for shaping culture with authenticity, empathy, & impact across the organization. In this interview she shares her personal journey, including the experiences that shaped her leadership style. Amy also reflects on motherhood, and how it has influ...

Charles Lazzara is the CEO & Founder of Volio Imports. He's built a portfolio rooted in family owned estates, regional character, and a deep respect for tradition. His path from finance to fine wine gives him both business clarity and genuine curiosity, a balance that shows up in every bottle he brings to market

Sandy McIntyre, Tamdhu Distillery Manager in the Speyside region of the Scottish Highlands, brings his background in chemistry and strong technical expertise to focus on making the highest quality Single Malt Scotch Whisky possible. Sandy is widely respected in the industry, and has received multiple awards for his leadership and contributions to Scotch whisky

Laura Donnelly is the Vice President of Marketing for the Philips Distilling Company, where she leads brand strategy and growth across a diverse spirits portfolio. Under her leadership, Prairie Organic Spirits expanded its Bee Better initiative focused on supporting pollinator heath and environmentally responsible farming. She shares insights on purpose driven marketing and the Bee Better mission,...

Erika Flowers is the National Brand Ambassador for Copalli Rum, a spirit known for its bold flavor, Belizean roots, and unwavering commitment to sustainability. Erika brings the brand to life with her infectious enthusiasm & deep spirits knowledge. We'll dive into her journey, her love for all things rum, and the energy she brings to sharing Copalli with the world

Heather Greene is the incredible Founder, CEO, & Master Blender behind Milam & Greene Whiskey. With deep roots in the whisky world and a visionary approach to blending, Heather has crafted spirits that are both elegant and bold. She marries her finesse and creativity with humor & a burning desire to leave a lasting legacy in the whiskey world

Andrew Sinclair is a driving force behind Gonzalez Byass, a sixth generation drinks company gaining attention globally for its thoughtful approach to quality and craftsmanship in the adult beverage world. His work reflects a blend of curiosity, tradition, and modern perspective, shaping a wine & spirits portfolio that stands out for its character and intention

Katy Wilson, LaRue Wines founder and winemaker, explores her wine making philosophy, what inspires her, and the story behind the distinctive wines she creates

Alexandre & Debbie Gabriel are the dynamic duo behind some of the world's most celebrated spirits originating from their company Maison Ferrand. From a chance meeting at a concert, to building a family and a legacy rooted in craftsmanship, heart, and innovation - together they've turned passion into a global journey of flavor and storytelling. In this lively conversation, they share...