Buy Back Podcast

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Drinking buds Alex and John track down the funniest, most disgusting, and wildest bartending stories from the best of the best! Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

The Buy Back


    • Jul 4, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 38m AVG DURATION
    • 63 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Buy Back Podcast is truly one of the most enjoyable podcasts I have had the pleasure of listening to. What sets it apart from other podcasts is its unique concept of conducting interviews live on site in various areas, giving listeners a truly immersive experience. It's like being right there with the hosts, Alex and John, as they navigate different bar scenes and share their experiences. The podcast never fails to entertain with its consistent and unique humor. I eagerly await each new episode and can't recommend it enough.

    One of the best aspects of The Buy Back Podcast is its ability to take listeners on a journey through different bars and locations. This adds a dynamic element to each episode, making it feel like you're part of the adventure. The hosts, Alex and John, are incredibly charismatic and entertaining, bringing a fun energy to every interview. They have a great understanding of the industry and provide valuable insights into bar etiquette and hidden gems worth checking out. As someone who used to live in NYC, this podcast has filled the void of my old local spot while also inspiring me to discover new favorites.

    While it's challenging to find any major flaws with The Buy Back Podcast, some listeners may prefer a more polished production style. The podcast embraces an open mic atmosphere, which creates an authentic ambiance but may lack some of the polish found in other podcasts. However, this rawness adds to the charm and genuine nature of the show. Additionally, some individuals may not connect with the bar scene or find it interesting enough for sustained listening enjoyment.

    In conclusion, The Buy Back Podcast is an incredible podcast that offers a personal look into the wild world of tending bar. With entertaining stories, valuable tips on bar etiquette, and recommendations for new spots to check out, this podcast never disappoints. Alex and John are fantastic hosts who bring humor and charisma to each episode. While there may be slight room for improvement in terms of production quality for some listeners, the overall experience is undeniably enjoyable. I highly recommend giving this podcast a listen and spreading the word about it. I can't wait for season two!



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    Latest episodes from Buy Back Podcast

    Episode 53: John Ball Will Make You Feel Good

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2024 56:44


    Join John and Alex as they talk to a man who's seen it all, John Ball. Learn about the craziness that happens in high-scale restaurants, hear some excellent voice acting, and come along with John for a new segment where he makes drinks with our guest!

    Bonus Episode: The Buy Back is Back Baby!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2024 20:48


    Join John and Alex as they catch up before the new season of the Buy Back! Lots of exciting announcements coming this season!

    Scary Ghost Stories Holiday Special!

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2023 59:59


    Join John and Alex as they swap original holiday horror stories in this special bonus episode!

    Haunted Bars and Scary Stories

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2023 78:53


    Join John and Alex as they talk about haunted bars and read listener stories of real life ghost encounters!

    Episode 51: Elena Encounters An Ecological Attack!

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2023 31:06


    Join John and Alex as they continue their interview with Elena and hear one of the weirdest bathroom stories since they started the podcast!

    Episode 51: Elena's Pre Shift Affirmations

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2023 28:54


    Join John and Alex as they interview Elena from Doc Holidays in New York City. Hear some of the wild stories to come out of this Lower East Side staple.

    Episode 50: Singing, Dancing, and Shots with Evolet

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2023 64:44


    Join John and Alex for part 2 of their interview with Evolet. Warning: John and Evolet get dangerously close to Season 1 Episode 3 territory.

    Episode 49: Evolet Punches a Guy

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2023 35:11


    Join John and Alex as they interview Evolet from New York City. She currently works at the rooftop bar at Hotel Hugo and has some wild stories.

    Episode 48: Becca and Crystal Tell All about the Bachelorette

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2023 23:25


    The bachelorette party was crazy!

    Episode 47: Becca and Crystal Take John and Alex to School

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2023 26:00


    Join John and Alex as they interview Becca and Crystal from La Junta, Colorado. Find out what its like to be a second-grade teacher and bartender, plus all of the crazy stuff that goes on at this small-town bar.

    Episode 46: Three Shots In With Marisa; Hold the Malibu

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2023 24:26


    Join John and Alex as they learn more about the Ditmars bar scene from Marisa.

    Episode 45: Marisa, Firemen, and a Rotary Saw Walk into a Bar in New York City

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2023 34:24


    Join John and Alex as they interview Marisa from Jack Jones in Ditmars. Hear one of the wildest stories we've ever come across in our three years of interviewing bartenders.

    Tip Your Bartenders! We'll Be Back!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2023 0:44


    Alex went to the Philippines; John has been waiting patiently with a drink in his hand. We will be taking a one week break but will be back next week with a brand new episode!

    Episode 44: The Buy Back Gets Even Angrier Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2023 23:27


    Join John and Alex for the second half of their interview with the Angry Bartender!

    Episode 43: Get Angry with the Angry Bartender Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2023 30:53


    Join John and Alex for something different as they interview the Angry Bartender! Things get a little heated, a little crazy, and very angry.

    Episode 42: Emily, Norm Storm, and Doggles Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2023 29:32


    Join John and Alex for part two of their interview with Emily!

    Episode 41: Emily Finds Love in a Pennsylvania Bar Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2023 29:29


    Join John and Alex as they talk with Emily from Pennsylvania. Find out what it's like to work at an American Legion Club, the crazy things bartenders have to deal with when they have paying members, and how one night while bartending Emily's entire life changed.

    Episode 40: Rory Plays the Tin Whistle Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2023 29:07


    Join John and Alex for the second half of Rory's interview! Rory talks more about opening Murphy's, his new bar in Astoria, regales John and Alex with stories, and dives deeper into the best time of year: Trad Week! Don't forget to rate and subscribe to The Buy Back Podcast!

    Episode 39: Rory Opens Murphy's Bar in Astoria and has 13 Old Fashioneds (not at the same time) Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2023 34:31


    John sits down with Rory at his new bar in Astoria, and Alex calls in. Find out how Rory has been so successful with owning multiple bars in NYC, the conundrum of him not drinking whiskey, and why everyone should thank their porters.

    Episode 38: Andrew Jackson Hits "The Jackpot" with a Playboy Bunny in D.C.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2023 40:23


    John and Alex interview Andrew Jackson who works at Jackpot in Washington, D.C. Listen in to hear about his Playboy bunny experience, why he had to call the cops on a customer, and why he's never been happier as a bartender. Also, thank you for listening! If you, or someone you know, wants to be interviewed for future episodes of The Buy Back reach out to us on social media!

    Episode 37: Matty from Milwaukee

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2023 45:41


    John and Alex interview Matty from Racine, Wisconsin. Listen in to hear some crazy Bloody Mary recipes, what a Hot Hamms Sandwich drink is, and how Matty juggles being an actor while working at 5 different bars. Thanks for listening and if you or someone you know wants to be interviewed for future episodes reach out to us on social media!

    Episode 36: Nicky Doe From New York City

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2023 35:59


    John and Alex interview Nicky who works in Lower Manhattan. Find out how sexy time led to someone getting stabbed, conclusive evidence that Seth MacFarlane has the smoothest skin, and how to make a proper old fashioned.

    Episode 35: Season 4 Premier! Mike from New Orleans

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2023 71:58


    You thought you heard the craziest bar stories out there; you haven't heard anything like the bar tales Mike shares with John and Alex in the premier episode of Season 4. After talking to Mike, it has come to our attention that New Orleans may have the wildest bar scene in the United States. Find out what happens when the bars never close, what weird things people have stolen from Mike's bar, and why you always wear appropriate footwear on Bourbon Street. Oh, and welcome back! We've missed you!

    Episode 34: Halloween Special 2 - Haunted Bars

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2022 53:53


    Listen in as Alex tells John about the five most haunted bars in the U.S.! Warning! This episode contains spooky stories and creepy ghosts. Listen at your own risk. This will be the last episode of Season 3. See you all next year for Season 4! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 33: Halloween Special 1 - Ghost Stories

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2022 43:32


    Join John, Alex, and special guests as they talk about ghosts and spooky occurrences in bars around the world. Hear first-hand paranormal experiences and listen in for ghost stories submitted by fans like you! Happy Halloween! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Catching Up with Ben

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2022 17:27


    Ben and John catch up! Ben is now an influencer for 3 Amigos Tequila but he's still allowed to say the names of other tequilas. Listen in as Ben gives us the inside scoop and drops an exclusive and delicious tequila cocktail recipe! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Ireland in Conversation

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2022 23:49


    Listen to exclusive stories and interviews from The Buy Back's time in Ireland with this special episode! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 32: Cillian and Katie in Dublin

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2022 65:18


    Alex, John, and Pat interview Cillian and Katie in Dublin, Ireland. Find out how the drinking culture has changed not just in Ireland but around the world; hear the craziest stories from bars in Ireland, Spain, and New York City; and go on a journey as these two bartenders who have never met agree, disagree, and find common ground. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 31: The Lads from Galway

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2022 47:47


    Alex, Pat, and John interview Aaron and Antoin from Hole in the Wall Bar in Galway, Ireland. Find out where to go late night drinking in Galway, what you really shouldn't do as a tourist when visiting an Irish pub, and where the best pint of Guinness in the city is. Continue to follow us as we make our way around Ireland to learn more about the drinking culture! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 30: Liam from Wexford Ireland

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2022 39:09


    The Buy Back Boys are in Ireland! Welcome to the first of a series of interviews we did during our tour through Ireland! Join Alex, John, and special co-host Pat as they interview Liam, owner of Sinnott's Bar in Wexford, Ireland. Find out what an Irish Pub means to the community, what makes a pint of Guinness great, and how you should tip in Ireland. Get ready for a wild and crazy set of interviews from the Emerald Isle! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 29: Claude: John's Dad

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2022 45:57


    That's right! In this special episode, we interview John's father, who bartended many moons ago. Find out what it was like bartending back in the day, what happened when a disgruntled customer returned to the bar with his rifle, and learn things that John didn't even know about his dad, like the fact that he worked at Studio 54 in New York City! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 28: Ben from Arizona

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2022 23:46


    Join John and Alex as they interview Ben at the Uncommon Chandler as he opens the bar. Find out what a flaming Dr. Pepper is, why Ben walked out of his job at a pizza shop/bar, and listen in for a bunch of shoutouts, maybe you'll hear your name! And guess what, Alex and John are together for the first time in forever! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 27: Rachael from Idaho

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2022 31:27


    John and Alex interview Rachel (and her dog, Stitch) from Terre Haute, Indiana. Find out what it's like to be a bartender and nurse at the same time, what the best ideas are for a Bloody Mary bar, and finally, a definitive answer to the age old question: "Is it okay to order water in a bar?" We trust her, she's a nurse. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 26: Courtney from Florida

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2022 50:04


    John and Alex interview Courtney from Florida. Learn what it's like to sell thousands of dollars worth of Jell-o shots at a bar, why you should work hard now to play hard later, and which surprising celebrity Courtney befriended at a dive bar. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 25: Enrique from Santa Barbara

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2022 46:49


    John and Alex interview Enrique from Santa Barbara. Find out about the cool liquors and bitters Enrique is making using locally sourced materials, what it's like to be served by Michael Jordan, and the crazy stuff that happens at private Hollywood parties. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 24: Zane Lamprey Stand-up Comedian and Excellent Drinker

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2022 35:41


    John and Alex have the honor of interviewing Zane Lamprey as he tours across the country on his Lager than Life Tour. Zane is a travel show host, comedian, and excellent drinker. Basically, he travels the world, learns about drinking culture, and drinks a lot of booze. Find out how Zane got this sweet gig and hear about some of his wildest drinking stories from around the world. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 23: Ryan from New York City

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2022 52:31


    John and Alex interview Ryan from New York City. Spoiler alert: John and Ryan are together for the interview! Find out if you should be asking your bartenders how they're doing, what it's like working at some shady bars, and prepare yourself for a spooky future episode! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 22: Amber from Iowa

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2022 35:15


    John and Alex interview Amber from Iowa. Listen in to hear about the best idea for a speakeasy ever, what it's like serving in small-town bars, and the most heartwarming bar story we've ever heard! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 21: Sabrina from Oconomowoc

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2022 45:51


    John and Alex interview Sabrina and learn about the bar seen around the lakes of Wisconsin. Find out about some awesome bar games, why Sabrina had to drive drunk customers home from the bar, and what its like bartending in bikini right after jumping in a lake. Let's go for a wild ride! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Season 3 Premier! Damon at Harmony Spirits

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2022 37:28


    Happy 4th of July and Happy New Season of The Buy Back! Alex and John Interview Damon from Harmony Spirits in Minnesota where he distills and runs the tasting room. Find out how this Navy mechanic went from distilling ethanol to distilling alcohol, what secret liquor Damon uses to make mojitos, and why Bush beer is his biggest pet peeve. Let's get this party started! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    John and Alex Back at it Again

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2022 27:53


    John and Alex have exciting news about the next season of The Buy Back! Join us as we talk about what we've been up to, when you can expect season 3, and where The Buy Back will be touring this summer! And as always, don't forget to tip your bartenders! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Season 2 Finale! The Crew at the Red Stone Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2021 66:40


    John and Alex continue their interview with Emily, Justin, Shea, and Taylor at the Red Stone Pub. Find out why firm limes make good margaritas, what scary/friendly ghosts haunt the bar, and hear from a real-life regular as to why you should visit the Red Stone Pub. Thank you so much for joining us for the second season of The Buy Back. We will see you in Season 3! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 19: The Crew at Red Stone

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2021 57:23


    John and Alex head to Simsbury, Connecticut to interview Emily, Justin, Shea, and Taylor at the Red Stone Pub. Find out what happens when a customer's mom has to pick up their phone after a wild night, why you should only order nachos sparingly, and the terrifying story of someone not making it to the bathroom in time. Join us next week for the second half of this episode and the season finale! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 18: Hannah at Pastis

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2021 63:52


    John and Alex interview Hannah who works at Patis in New York City. Find out which onion goes in a cocktail and which doesn't, why some weird guy gave Hannah money soaked in pee, and why this episode slaps. Tune in next week for our second to last interview! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Thanksgiving Special!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2021 5:22


    John and Alex make mistakes... a lot of mistakes. Hear some in this blooper reel. Plus two new bar rules that can be discussed around the Thanksgiving table! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 17: Opee in R.I.

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2021 31:49


    John and Alex interview Opee in Rhode Island. Find out what a flare bartender does, why the bar at the Hard Rock Casino can be wild, and why there was a condom in the ashtray. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Exciting News! Austin East Cider Joins The Buy Back Family!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2021 1:08


    Listen to our promo welcoming Austin East Cider to The Buy Back family! Go to your local watering hole and order an Austin East to sip on as you listen to our new episode! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 16: Alex Spills it All!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2021 44:45


    John and Pat interview Alex at Mad Donkey! That's right, the tables have turned again. Find out how Alex got into the industry, what happens when Pat goes rogue with the questions, and why Santacon is a nightmare. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 15: Omar at Blackbirds

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2021 38:29


    John and Alex interview Omar from Blackbirds! This is a special episode dedicated to all the barbacks out there who work hard and deal with a lot of shit... literally. Find out what extra special bar rule Omar teaches John and Alex, why Scarlett Johansson is the nicest celebrity he has ever served, and why the first bar Omar opens will have an aquarium in it! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 14: Gerald Live on the Buy Back!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2021 46:06


    John and Alex interview Gerald Donnelly in front of live bar audience! Find out where Gerald had the best Guinness in the world (it's not where you think; it's not even on the continent that you think), why Gerald heckles tourists at a bar in Ireland, and the time a dead customer came back to life! Make sure to follow us on Instagram so you don't miss the next recording of The Buy Back Live! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

    Episode 13: Pat and Taylor Industry Romance (Part 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2021 52:27


    John and Alex continue their interview with Pat and Taylor. Find out what it's like dating in the industry, the easiest thing bar owners can do to make their employees happy, and why being a decent human being will probably get you a buyback! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thebuyback/support

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