Served Up

Chef Mike Traud is the founder of The Chef Conference, based in Philadelphia, where connections are forged and culinary expertise thrives. Mike unveils the essence of the The Chef Conference - an exclusive opportunity to engage with the minds behind renowned restaurants and culinary ventures around the world, as well as to tackle some of the most important subjects facing the culinary world today

Monica Dubar, a celebrated sommelier with unparalleled expertise and an award-wining palate, takes us on a journey through the art of fine wine and dining: transcending mere consumption into a realm of luxury and sophistication

Roberto Sequeira, founder of Gläce Luxury Ice, shares the intriguing backstory behind his groundbreaking luxury ice company. He shares his creative process including conception, execution, and unraveling the complexities of crafting an unparalleled ice service. Discover the fusion of artistry, craftsmanship and innovation that defines a cocktail's most important ingredient: ice

James Curich, Co-Founder of CURICH | WEISS Public Relations, offers sound advice for aspiring PR professionals as well as provides an exclusive sneak peek behind the scenes of his dynamic profession

Barkley Stuart, Executive Vice President of Federal Government Affairs for Southern Glazer's, recounts pivotal moments and offers unique perspective on driving positive change within the dynamic landscape of the beverage world. From his upbringing in New York City surrounded by feminist influences like Gloria Steinem, to his passionate commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Barkley h...

Andrew Faulkner, the managing partner of the New Orleans Spirits Competition, unravels the unique elements behind the scenes at the competition. He shares his motivations as well as the challenges and triumphs he has faced throughout his career in the beverage world from his time as a journalist to where he is today

Lindsey Johnson, founder of Lush Life Productions, shares her journey shaping extraordinary experiences through education and events. From Portland Cocktail Week, to Camp Runamok, to Brown & Balanced, Lindsay's commitment to excellence and diversity leaves an enduring mark on the beverage industry and community

Cindy Haas, Vice President of Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits, opens up about her personal milestones from motherhood to navigating menopause as well as her extraordinary professional career. Join us for this genuine conversation as Cindy generously shares her unique wisdom as a seasoned communications professional in addition to gett...

Claire Warner has spent her wildly impressive career challenging convention and innovating new and exciting developments in the global beverage alcohol marketplace, including in her current role as Head of Advocacy for Diageo Great Britain. Claire's narrative is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the indelible mark one can leave on the spirits industry

Master Sommelier Serafin Alvarado’s journey into the worlds of hospitality and wine took him from New York City, to Puerto Rico, and back to the US in Chicago working with the late, great Chef Charlie Trotter. Serafin's story serves as a not-unfamiliar roadmap for many of the most successful professionals in the hospitality sphere, as it weaves through many different geographies and disciplin...

The daughter of a tavern owner in New York City, Laura Cullen fell in love with hospitality early on. Since then, Laura has lived in nearly every corner of the United States, and has spent her impressive career working in most every facet of the beverage alcohol industry. Laura's story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the enduring power of the beverage community to uplift and inspir...

Chief Executive Officer Billy Paretti shares CleanCo's mission to redefine non-alcoholic spirits. Billy shares how CleanCo is making these dynamic, exciting new spirits essential to every cocktail bar, both in restaurants & taverns around the world as well as at home

Simon Ford is a spirited visionary. He shares his journey of a career in the beverage world, the story of the creation and building of Ford's Gin, and the impact he has made in the industry

Kerstin Recker and Helen Grimshaw, Co-Founders of Peli Health, share their insights on the importance of spotlighting women's health and the needed resources to speicifically support pelvic health needs for everyone

Nicolette Teo has an insider's perspective to the world of beverage that is truly second to none. She has a unique talent for bringing her team of judges' personalities to life in everything she does. Join us as we discover the dynamic world of spirit competitions, discuss the art of tasting, and learn how Nicolette's vibrant approach adds an extra layer of magic to the beverage ind...

Tracie Franklin, a multi-talented performer turned spirits expert, takes us on a journey through her fascinating past and her studies in distillation. She has an infectious passion for the craft of creating high quality spirits. Spirited Tracie brings a touch of showbiz to her expertise in the world of distilled beverages

Kevin Finch's journey takes us from the church pulpit to a different kind of ministry as he stepped away from preaching to start a non-profit organization around his love of food, and for the amazing people who work in the service industry. Big Table is dedicated to supporting hospitality workers in crisis. Kevin's commitment to making a difference and doing truly impactful work is uplif...

Daniel Singer shares his amazing story starting from his humble beginnings, to revealing how his love for the beverage industry and relentless determination propelled him to success. Despite his early struggles with dyslexia, he shares how he turns his struggles into his superpower, and builds his company Filthy Foods with drive, integrity, and the strength and love of his family

Whitney Gates is breaking down barriers and shattering ceilings in the beverage industry, making space for extraordinary cocktail wines and speaking about the need for diversity in this industry. She shares her inspiring story, the challenges she has overcome, a behind-the-scenes look from her appearance on hit TV show "Shark Tank", and the vital importance of diversity and inclusion in...

Elayne Duff’s professional journey is nothing short of remarkable, with a rich history in the beverage world. With years of hands-on experience, she’s not only a connoisseur, but also a change maker. Her commitment to educating others about the world of spirits and beverages shines through in every word she shares

Specialty Drinks Educator and the Founder of the Mixing Class Hannah Lanfear shares her unique approach and engaging methods for how she makes spirits, cocktails, and the world of beverage come alive in the classroom. With Hannah, education isn’t just about absorbing the facts - it’s about savoring the experience

We shine a spotlight on an organization that embodies the essence of community care - NOAGE, the New Orleans Advocates for the LGBTQ+ elders. Join the NOAGE leaders Tony Leggio and Jim Meadows on a heartwarming journey with stories of resilience, connection, and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging through the tapestry of care

From long hours to emotionally charged situations, founder of Healthy Pour and psychotherapist Laura Louise Green reminds us that true hospitality begins with caring for oneself. Laura sheds light on the need to prioritize mental health in an environment where self-care often takes a back seat

We journey into the heart of a cause that transcends pages and ink, exploring the critical role that libraries play in our society with Shannan Cvitanovic, Director of The Friends of the New Orleans Public Library. She unravels the truth about why banning books is an act of oppression, and how the guardians of these literary sanctuaries, the librarians, stand as unwavering pillars in the communiti...

Brace yourself for a conversation that goes beyond the bar. Bacardi’s National LGBTQ+ Ambassador Chris Cabrera’s fearlessness takes them on a journey to towns across the United States, even those less accepting, as they champion the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. This episode is a testament to the fact that a single spark of bravery can ignite a torch of change. Grab yourself a Bacardi cocktail a...