Served Up

Erick Castro, the founder of the Bartender at Large podcast, shares his insights of the beverage industry, his favorite podcast episode, and so much more in this fun talk about every aspect of a career in hospitality.

Emma Sleight, the Head of Content for North America's 50 Best Bars, offers a glimpse into finding the best of the best within the worlds of mixology and hospitality. Get ready to be blown away by her dedication to excellence and creativity in the bar world as she shares her journey

Jenna Murry, Sidecar's Account Director of Trade Advocacy, shares some insightful conversation on forging meaningful connections in the beverage industry. Join us as we explore the importance of being a great trade advocate, and the strategies behind building strong partnerships in the world of spirits

David Chaplin, Chief Growth Officer for Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits, shares his passion for the beverage industry, his family, and insights on innovating within the three-tiered US beverage alcohol distribution system

Ivy Mix & Lynnette Marrero, founders of the Speed Rack bartending competition and authors of "A Quick Drink: The Speed Rack Guide to Winning Cocktails for Any Mood", share stories behind the drinks in their newly released first book as well as the heartwarming impact of their initiative

Vance Henderson, National Ambassador for Hendrick's Gin, shares his determination and passion for making a difference in the beverage industry. Vance reflects on his journey, his love of his current role in the business, and his hopes for the future

Francis Creighton, CEO of the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America, provides a comprehensive overview of WSWA and its impactful programs, shedding light on the organization's mission to elevate spirit and wine brands. Uncover the dynamic initiatives driving innovation and excellence in the beverage industry

Beorn Brueckner, Co-Founder of Hand Barrel Bourbon, conveys his passion for bourbon and commitment to supporting military families. Beorn discusses his mission-driven approach to crafting exceptional bourbon Recorded at WSWA Access Live 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada

Andy England, CEO of Phillips Distilling Company, takes us on a beverage industry journey as he offers invaluable professional advice learned along his own career path. This enlightening conversation shares the incredible wisdom and perspective of one of the industry's most visionary leaders Recorded at WSWA Access Live 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada

Merrilee Kick, the Founder & CEO of Buzzballz, unveils her innovative spirit and entrepreneurial insights behind creating the brand Recorded at WSWA Access Live 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada

Andy Seymour, the innovative founder of Liquid Productions, shares his journey as the premiere event cocktail programmer. Discover the creative force behind the cocktails for prestigious events like the Emmys, Grammys, Oscars, & Tony Awards, as well as as part of major beverage conferences like Tales of the Cocktail, BCB Brooklyn, and many more Recorded at WSWA Access Live 2024 in Las Vegas, N...

J. Robert Hall, CEO of Ole Smokey Distillery, shares his professional journey, along with invaluable lessons learned from a 40+ year career. He offers his unique perspective on moonshine, and why it's become such a household name all across the US Recorded at WSWA Access Live 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada

Meridith May, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief of Tasting Panel Magazine & The SOMM Journal, offers a fascinating behind-the -scenes glimpse into the creation of these celebrated publications. She shares invaluable insights into the dynamic world of wine and spirits. Recorded at WSWA Access Live 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada

Tony Abou-Ganim, Co-Founder of the TAG Global Spirits Awards, sits down to discuss the inspiration driving his prestigious awards competition created to celebrate excellence in spirits. Tony shares his insights on hospitality and love for the craft of spirits and their role behind the bar. Recorded at WSWA Access Live 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada

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...