Served Up

Geoff Whitman has turned two lifelong passions - wine and photography - into an extraordinary career that spans vineyards and world tours. In this lively conversation, he shares stories from the road as a photographer with Pearl Jam, including the creative moments behind the camera, and his very different kinds of creative work with Lloyd Cellars. His enthusiasm for music, travel, and storytelling...

Food Network Star Chef Guy Fieri celebrates the milestone of our 300th episode. This high energy conversation is as bold and flavorful as his career. We talk about Guy's journey from chef to cultural force of nature, the passion behind his restaurants and philanthropy, and what excites him about Santo Tequila. It's an honest, fun, and inspiring look at the stories behind the drive that k...

Alice Tetienne, Deputy General Manager & Cellar Master at Maison Henriot, offers a look at the meticulous process she employs to maintain the luminous, elegant style that defines the Champagnes of Henroit. We explore her roles as both guardian of the house's historic savoir faire and as a forward-thinking scientist navigating the challenges of modern viticulture & viniculture. The con...

Sam Lim Achatz, co-founder of Hi-Snaps hemp-based drink booster, discusses how she cofounded the company and navigated challenges in a rapidly evolving industry. She also shares her approach to product innovation, brand growth, and creating unique experiences that connect with consumers in new & exciting ways

Chef Keith Blauschild shares his journey through the culinary world, from early inspirations to refining his signature style in the kitchen. He also opens up about is love for Led Zeppelin, the unforgettable experience of meeting Jimmy Page and The Rolling Stones , and how music fuels his creativity

Tobin Ellis, author of Bar Design Essentials, goes beneath the surface of aesthetics to explore his data driven approach in creating bars that prioritize both human ergonomics and peak profitability. We discuss the insights found within his seminal work, examining how "zero-step" design and equipment adjacency can transform an otherwise chaotic service into a seamless flow state. The con...

Stefan Doktor, Estate Manager & Managing Director of Schloss Johannisberg Wine Estate in Germany, shares how he navigates the delicate balance between preserving an 800+ years-long winemaking legacy with implementing modern management & winemaking practices. Stefan dives into his duel responsibilities as Estate Manager and Managing Director, uncovering how he maintains the global prestige...

Karen MacNeil, author of "The Wine Bible", peels back the layers of her journey, revealing the dedication and sensory depth required to create the definitive guide to global viniculture. She steps away from technicalities of the cellar to explore her personal philosophy on how wine shapes history, culture, and social dynamics. This interview offers a rare glimpse into the heart of the wr...

Brett Berish, CEO of Sovereign Brands and the architect behind global sensations like Bumbu Rum, dives deep into his wonderfully unconventional ways of doing business in an ever-changing spirits industry. We explore his self-made philosophy and the fearless marketing tactics that allowed Sovereign Brands to dominate an industry long controlled by giant companies. The conversation offers a mastercl...

Alison Rodriguez, winemaker for Silverado Vineyards, brings precision and creativity to her role by balancing tradition with a modern winemaking perspective. She shares insights into her vineyard practices, from site expression to sustainabilty, and how those choices shape the final wine. Alison highlights her vision for the future of Napa Valley and the evolving role of winemakers in defining its...

Kristina Kelley, the Executive Director of the Washington State Wine Commission and Eric explore how Kristina is shaping the global identity of Washington State Wines through storytelling, advocacy, and innovation. She shares insights on the evolution of wines in the region from sustainability initiatives to elevating lesser known varietals. The conversation also highlights her vision for the futu...

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...