Bartender at Large

Join us in this week's episode as we sit down with hospitality industry veteran Hillary Jaroschy, Advocacy Director for Rémy Cointreau USA. In our interview, she shares the details of her career journey and shares practical advice on how others can do the same. Hillary's insights offer a meaningful glimpse into the world of working with a brand and running a team. _________________________________...

Join us for this extra special mini-episode with award-winning bartender & educational advocate, Lauren Mote, as she tells us all about the Patron Perfectionists, a global cocktail competiton and educational initiative that sheds light on the wonderful world of agave. So tune in and learn more about it. Learn More: https://www.academiapatron.com/patronperfectionists This episode is brought to you...

Join us this week, as we sit down with the trailblazing Lynette Marrero, as we discuss her career in the industry which includes such projects as Speed Rack, Master Class, and Delola. Not many other bartenders have been able to tap into so many avenues of creativity, as she has, so her perspective offers a unique look into the realm of entrepreneurship within the bar world. So tune in, as she shar...

In this week's episode of the show, Florence Ray opens up about the often overlooked issue of workplace bullying. Drawing from her personal experiences and expertise as a renowned psychologist, she delves into the detrimental effects of such behavior on employees' mental health and productivity. In order to further help us address the issues, Ray offers practical strategies and tips for both emplo...

Tune in this week as we chat with Tyler Rothenberg, of Elit Vodka. In our conversation, Tyler shares his passion for tasting vodka, as well as his love for the frozen Martini. In addition, he gives us a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the philosophy and dedication that goes into creating a unique and exceptional vodka.  Learn more about the Elit Masters Cocktail Competition: https://www. lushlifepr...

Join us this week as we chat with with senior bar consultant, Charlie Ainsbury of Proof Creative, as he shares the secret ingredients behind winning cocktail competitions. Discover the artistry and precision that sets apart a winning performance, as Charlie shares his insider tips and techniques honed over years of industry experience. Get ready to shake up your competition game and gain invaluabl...

Join us this week, as we sit down with Mandy Naglich to discuss her new book, "How to Taste: A Guide to Discovering Flavor and Savoring Life." In her book, Mandy takes us on a mouthwatering journey where she shares her expertise on unlocking the hidden depths of flavor and finding joy with every sip. Get ready to indulge your senses and learn how to embrace life's delicious moments with Mandy's in...

Join us in this extra-special mini-episode as we delve into the world of sustainable cocktails with the Sustainable Cocktail Challenge. Bartenders from around the world showcase their creativity by crafting eco-friendly cocktails using Flor de Caña Rum. Beyond the competition, the Sustainable Cocktail Challenge serves as a catalyst for important discussions on sustainability, encouraging bartender...

Join us in this revealing episode as we sit down with the bartender turned owner-operator, Travis Tober, as he unveils the close to the chest secrets to successful bar openings, finances and strategic planning. To often in our industry, this sort of information can be hard to find, but in this episode you will gain actionable insights and perspectives from an industry veteran who has mastered the...

In this week's episode, we delve into the world of cutting edge culinary cocktails, as we interview Tako Chang, the brilliant manager of brand marketing behind the award-winning cocktail bar, Double Chicken. Join us as Chang shares with us the origins of the bar, as well as the philosophy behind the bar's unique concoctions that have garnered international acclaim. From innovative ingredient combi...

Join us as entrepreneur and innovator, Marc Ferrell, uncorks the origin story behind Ten to One Rum. In this conversation, the founder shares his journey detailing his Caribbean upbringing to crafting a unique spirit that captures the essence of the islands. Discover the inspiration, challenges, and triumphs that shaped the renowned brand, as Ferrell's life and experiences take listeners on a flav...

This week, we chat with Daniel Febres-Cordero and Sarah Ruiz, the creative minds behind the acclaimed Ecuadorian bar, Juliana. Tune in as they take us as they share the story behind their bar and its award-winning cocktail menu. In this spirited interview they share their creative process, inspirations, and the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into every drink off of their menu. The Menu:  https...

Tune in for an enlightening journey as shochu expert Chris Pellegrini, author of the The Shochu Handbook, uncovers the essence of Japan's beloved distilled spirit in this interview. Explore the rich heritage and diverse flavors of shochu, from traditional distillation methods to modern innovations. Join Chris as he shares his expertise, revealing the hidden stories behind each sip and leaving you...

In this week's episode, we are joined by spirits writer, Tyler Zielinski, who shares his secrets behind crafting a bar that radiates soul and personality. From choosing the perfect ambiance to hiring the right staff, Zielinski shares invaluable insights on creating a space that transcends mere beverage. Prepare to be inspired as Zielinski guides you through the art of transforming a bar into a cap...

Join us as we dive deep into the extraordinary world of flavor, enterpreneurship & mentorship with esteemed Beard House Fellow, Mimi Chen. In this captivating podcast interview, Mimi shares her culinary expertise and unravels the secrets behind her creativity, leaving listeners inspired to embrace their own culinary adventures. Tune in to discover the remarkable story behind Mimi's career evolutio...

Tune in this week for an interview with Barbara Sloan, the author of Tipped. In the conversation Sloan shares valuable tips and strategies for service industry professionals to gain control of their finances and achieve financial freedom. Sloan's book Tipped has been hailed as a must-read for anyone in the service industry, and the podcast offers a sneak peek into the valuable insights and advice...

In this episode, we sit down with Academy awarding-winning director Steven Soderbergh to discuss his passion for Singani, the Bolivian spirit that has captured his heart. Soderbergh shares his journey of discovering Singani and how it has become a staple in his personal and professional life, even inspiring the creation of his own brand of Singani called Singani 63. _______________________________...

Join us as we sit down with Mark Sansom, Content Editor of North America's 50 Best Bars, for an insider's look at the prestigious ranking. Sansom shares the selection process, trends in the industry, and highlights from this year's list. Watch the awards live: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5j-MtDTfgs ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro,...

Join us as we chat with cocktail expert and author John deBary about his latest book, Saved by the Bellini. From twists on the classic Bellini to other '90s-inspired cocktails, DeBary shares his insights and inspiration behind each creation. Get ready to sip back in time and discover the nostalgia of these iconic drinks. Get your samples of Perfect Puree:  https://perfectpuree.com/foodservice/comp...

Entering a crowded market as an underdog is already tough, but when you have an award-winning product like the founder of Live Wire, Aaron Polsky, sometimes the flavor of what you make can provide you a leg up on the competition. However what do you do when a massive international corporation seemingly decides to target you and put you out of business. Tune in to listen to this week's episode of t...

This week we are joined by Mexican-American author, entrepreneur and restaurateur, Bricia Lopez. She is one of the foremost authorities on Oaxacan cuisine and co-founder of her own line of Michelada mix, I Love Micheladas. So tune in this week as we learn about her vision, philosophy, and creative mind. ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro,...

Creating new cocktails and menus can be a daunting task, especially when the stakes are high, as they are for the Schmucks during their pop-up in South Beach Miami. After the controversy following their departure from their previous project, Two Schmucks in Barcelona, the former crew knew that they had to bring the heat with their pop-up. And that is exactly what they managed to do with the acclai...

In this episode, we chat with Jamie Lewis and Drew Fleming, the masterminds behind Kiki Lounge, a tropical cocktail bar that opened during the pandemic on the Isle of Man. Despite the challenges, Lewis and Fleming created a thriving oasis that transports customers to a beach paradise. From the menu to the decor, they share their inspiration and insights on creating a unique bar experience. Get you...

This week we are joined by bartender and innovator, Iain McPherson, and learn all about the various techniques that we has developed through the use of freezing. In fact, he has even learned to harness the pressure used from expanding liquid to create new ways to extract flavors in the service of tastier cocktails using a process that he refers to as "sous pression." And that is only one of the ma...

Joining us this week is Megs Miller, a bartender and educator whoe relocated to Latin America to pursue her love for cocktails and spirits. She started a tequila tasting room in Mexico City as well as other projects in Central & South America. Tune in to her story and how she came to leave her life in London and relocate in another country to spread her love for agave. ____________________________...