Drinking Partners

Welcome to the 262nd episode of the Drinking Partners podcast, recorded live at the vibrant Emerald City. In this episode, Ed and Day dive into the importance of homeownership and building generational wealth with special guest Mary Hester, founder of Life Venture Real Estate Solutions. Mary shares her expertise on how her advocacy firm helps individuals become successful homeowners by providing education and connecting them to valuable resources like subsidies and grants. The discussion covers the psychological barriers and trauma related to money that many people face and how LifeVenture addresses these issues through education and support. Mary emphasizes the importance of having a good credit score, consistent work history, and some savings to get started on the path to homeownership. The episode also touches on the significance of understanding equity, the dangers of predatory lending, and the necessity of post-purchase counseling to ensure long-term success. Mary highlights the collaboration with Catapult Greater Pittsburgh, which offers homebuyer education workshops and one-on-one sessions to help individuals with budgeting, credit, and financial planning. Packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to enter the real estate market and build a stable financial future, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to learn more about taking the first steps towards homeownership and securing your family's legacy. Guest: Mary Hester | Live Venture Real Estate Solutions Location: Emerald City, Pittsburgh. Produced by: Epicast. Watch #EdandDay in The Burgh  Aug 10 | Barrel & Flow 2023 | barrelandflow.com

What does the name “Drinking Partners Podcast” tell you? It's probably some guys who appreciate a stiff drink (and maybe T-Pain), chopping it up with guests. Now take “Artist Talk Mental Health”: this week's guest, Sydney Davis began to host gatherings especially for Black artists and creatives after recognizing so many of her artist friends struggling with their mental health. “It's giving an opportunity for artists to get up on a platform and be like, not only is this my art, but this is the story behind it,” she tells Ed and Day. ATMH prides itself on creating a safe space to allow vulnerability while fostering community, solidarity, and connecting artists with mental health resources. Davis is also the creator of Niplids: a line of nipple-printed hats, from which 20% of the proceeds go toward The Young Women's Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation. Right on! Guest: Sydney Davis of Artist Talk Mental Health and Niplids. Location: Emerald City, Pittsburgh. Produced by: Epicast.   Watch #EdandDay in The Burgh Season 2 | verylocal.com/ed-and-day-in-the-burgh-how-to-watch/   Aug 12 | Barrel & Flow 2023 | barrelandflow.com  

  “I'm tired of tearing shit down,” says Montae Russell. “Let me build something up.” This kind of constructive, uplifting mindset is often heard on the Drinking Partners podcast, but never quite so literally. Montae is one-half of the husband and wife duo behind Russell General Contracting (5:50). He's lead carpenter; Alexis works as consultant. Together, they have helped to preserve Pittsburgh, and the nation's, cultural heritage, working on both the National Negro Opera House and the August Wilson House. Not only are Alexis and Tae savvy small business owners, but they're parents, too. (They even have some chickens.) Their personal journey is intertwined with their entrepreneurial path, and they share their one-of-a-kind tale over drinks with Day and Ed.    Guests: Montae and Alexis Russell of Russell General Contracting. Location: Emerald City, Pittsburgh. Production: Epicast. Watch #EdandDay in The Burgh Season 2 | verylocal.com/ed-and-day-in-the-burgh-how-to-watch/   Aug 12 | Barrel & Flow 2023 | barrelandflow.com  

“You got a can with your face on it,” says Ed Bailey, to this week's Drinking Partners guest, DaShawn Boring. It's Boring's first time on a can. The beer is from Altered Genius, where he brews. His face is next to Day's face. And their faces are next to Daelyn's face. It's a “3 Day Weekend”–a highly drinkable, dark kolsch-style altered ale, perfect for MLK Day, or any other righteous occasion. Ed, Day and DaShawn talk about the beer collab, the perils of dating a vegan, and the Brighton Hot Dog Shoppe. This one's for the Beaver Countians.   Guest: DeShawn Boring, brewer at Altered Genius Brewing Co. Location: Emerald City, Pittsburgh. Production: Epicast.   #EdandDay in The Burgh Season 2 | verylocal.com/ed-and-day-in-the-burgh-how-to-watch/   Thursdays in Pittsburgh | Ed & Day in The 'Burgh Season 2 Watch Party | barrelandflow.com/events   Aug 12 | Barrel & Flow 2023 | barrelandflow.com  

The Drinking Partners are kind of a big deal now. Buses in their hometown have Ed and Day's faces on the side of them. But has the fame gotten to their oversized, 6-foot tall heads? Hardly. They're still men of the people–certainly not the types to turn down booze out of a mason jar. Which is good, because that's how Erika Turner [4:50], co-founder and CEO of TLC Libations, has prepared some in-studio cocktails for this week's episode. Turner is the daughter half of the mother-daughter ownership team behind Western PA's first Black-owned woman distillery. The interview swings from bartending for picky martini drinkers, to making sangria for First Friday art crawls, to moving cocktails by the kegful, with ingredients like tequila, pomegranate, and cranberry thyme honey syrup. It's a classic conversation with the Drinking Partners, proving the pair remain, as Ed puts it, “upstanding citizens who like to uplift our community and drink while we're doing it.”  All that has changed is that they'll accept shots of Glenvlivet in lieu of Hennessy. Buy them some at the next Ed and Day in the Burgh watch party, and maybe, just maybe, Day will share his recipe for crunk juice with you.   Guest: Erika Turner, co-founder and CEO of TLC Libations. Location: 1028 Podcast Studio, Sharpsburg, PA.  Production: Epicast.   #EdandDay in The Burgh Season 2 | verylocal.com/ed-and-day-in-the-burgh-how-to-watch/   Thursdays in Pittsburgh | Ed & Day in The 'Burgh Season 2 Watch Party | barrelandflow.com/events   Aug 12 | Barrel & Flow 2023 | barrelandflow.com  

“I feel like the best art in the world creates conversation,” says artist Corey Ochai [4:17], founder and CEO of 1028 Studios, and there's no pair better to chop it with than the Drinking Partners. Ochai, who listeners might recognize as the creative director of America's best Black arts and craft beer festival, Barrel & Flow, reveals to Day and Ed why he briefly lost his joy for painting: “I was trying to create something that people would like, instead of creating from something that was inside me.” The comment prompts a conversation about what inspires real, meaningful artistry, no matter the form. Alongside a Black beer history month six-pack from Chicago's Bitter Pops, these creative professionals go on to discuss everything from Basquiat, to summers at the Braddock Beach, to why you shouldn't schedule a podcast recording on your anniversary.   Guest: Corey Ochai Location: 1028 Podcast Studio, Sharpsburg, PA.  Production: Epicast.   #EdandDay in The Burgh | verylocal.com/ed-and-day-in-the-burgh-how-to-watch/   March 16 | Ed & Day in The 'Burgh Season 2 Premiere Watch Party | barrelandflow.com/events   Aug 12 | Barrel & Flow 2023 | barrelandflow.com  

Just when he thought he was out, they pulled him back in. “I don't do Cajun style or Creole style,” – it's authentic New Orleans taste in the North. Mike Barnes, aka Big Easy, tells the Drinking Partners that after 20 years working in kitchens down South, he thought his days as a chef were over. Then word of his home cooking got out among friends. A few years and $10 pans of jambalaya later, he's got his own spice collection and catering company, Roux Orleans, where he's making catfish, crawfish, and gumbo so good that all you can say is “fam.” Laissez les bon temps roulez. And remember: if you see the Drinking Partners out in public, tell them you love them, buy them shots of Hennessy, but please, don't touch them.   Guest: Roux Orleans owner Mike Barnes. Location: 1028 Podcast Studio, Sharpsburg, PA.  Production: Epicast.  

If there's anything the Drinking Partners do, it's drink, and celebrate Black excellence. It's a package deal. And this episode has plenty of both. From Sharpsburg's swanky 1028 Podcast studio, Day and Ed welcome Kenyan Hicks, owner and distiller of Pittsburgh's Noire Expedition distillery. Theirs is a 90-proof, floral, American gin, with notes of lavender, citrus and juniper. The three take theirs neat, while they discuss the finer points of gin, the craft beverage industry's pay-it-forward mentality, and a long-lost uncle named Lumpkin. It's a journey and an episode so Black - it's Blackity-black Black.

Before a studio audience at The Stacks at 3 Crossings, in Pittsburgh's historic Strip District, the Drinking Partners are live from Barrel & Flow, the country's premiere Black arts and craft beer festival. Before the 75 breweries and a crowd of thousands arrive, Ed and Day sit down with two New England brewers who are redefining how beer is made and who it is for. The first guest is Alisa Bowens-Mercado [7:00], CEO and brewmaster of Connecticut's Rhythm Brewing Co. She discusses how contract brewing is “a beautiful thing,” and how hard it can be to find Black folks and “beer-flavored beer” in New England. Then, the group is joined by Sam Adams Boston head brewer, Megan Parisi [34:57]. She and Bowens-Mercado discuss representation in the craft beer industry, how the unlikely relationship between their discrepant breweries emerged, and their recent, Pink Boots-benefitting sparkling lager collab. It's a perspective on the industry that's not always told, and there's no better place for this vital discussion. Recording: Barrel & Flow Fest 8-30-22. Production: Epicast.  Guests: Alisa Bowens-Mercado of Rhythm Brewing Co.; Megan Parisi of Sam Adams Boston Brewery.

Tucked inside a big ol' barn at picturesque Freedom Farms in Valencia, Butler County, The Drinking Partners welcome listeners to Pittsburgh Mixed Culture, Cinderlands Beer Co. and Trace Brewing's inaugural celebration of all things saison and sour-centric. The show kicks off with Christian Gregory(9:29), representing Belgium's Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen. He talks about blending authentic lambics - “the drink of the people'' - and how the beloved brewery outside of Brussels maintains a consistent standard in their spontaneously-fermented beers year after year. Then, they take their taste buds on a “trip along the Oregon Trail” (29:45) with Matt Van Wyk, one of the co-founders of Eugene, Oregon's Alesong Brewing & Blending, who discusses what it takes for a brewery to stand out in a competitive, top-tier craft beer market. Finally,looking fresh with his ankles out, the “famous-famous” Michael Kaiser, founder of Good Beer Hunting. He talks about taking the site from a personal blog to an acclaimed global media venture, with contributors working across multiple continents. He finishes with praise for The Drinking Partners and recognizes the similarities between the growth of his project and theirs, telling Ed and Day “You guys put Pittsburgh on the map for beer in a big, big way.”   Produced by Epicast.  Recorded at Pittsburgh Mixed Culture festival 7-30-22 Presented by Cinderlands Beer Co. and Trace Brewing. Thanks to guests representing Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen, Good Beer Hunting, and Alesong Brewing & Blending.

The Drinking Partners, having moved up to “boardroom material,” welcome head brewer Lauren Hughes from Necromancer Brewing. She joins to discuss the three B's: business, beer, and bikes. After a career in music and arts education, Lauren's focus shifted back to her interest in brewing, which led to a career change. With Necromancer, she explores “dead styles” of beer, finding ways to modernize old and traditional brewing for new drinkers. Did you know that beer was once brewed without hops? Listen in as Lauren explains the ingredients behind the older styles and why it's so hard to make a good Pilsner. “There's nothing to hide behind,” she adds. Stay tuned for an important conversation about the culture of beer and what steps Necromancer is taking to lead the industry forward and how to create an inclusive brewery and industry. To wrap up the interview, Ed and Day ask for an explanation on beer naming. This latest episode is an informative roundup of all things brewing, from recipes to culture, and a necessary listen. Learn more about Necromancer: www.necromancer.beer

Tune in for the latest Drinking Partners podcast as Ed and Day chat with Cinderlands head brewer Paul Schneider and Trace Brewing's Head of Marketing Aadam Soorma about their newest collaboration: Pittsburgh Mixed Culture (www.pghmixedculture.com). This saison-centric festival will feature breweries from across the country and Belgium by, “bringing dozens of world-class brewers together … to demonstrate our love for the Belgian brewing traditions that inspire us, make a clear connection between local agriculture and beer, showcase fermentation-driven beer, and highlight the complementary roles of brewer and nature in making mixed-fermentation beer.” The July 30th event will take place at Freedom Farms in Valencia, PA. Spontaneous comments from Ed and Day pair well with Paul's detailed explanation of the spontaneous process of mixed culture brewing in Day's favorite type of conversation: edutainment. This rare to Pittsburgh style gets to shine with its own festival, although Ed's suggestion that an essay praising saison be a requirement was not accepted. The conversation around mixed culture craft brewing is ripe with knowledge and will turn the average beer fan into an aficionado, but don't worry if you get confused, as Ed admits. Listen in until the closing minutes to hear Drinking Partners advice on how to conquer a beer festival and make plans to check out Pittsburgh Mixed Culture Fest on July 30 at Freedom Farms.

From a new location – Emerald City in Pittsburgh, Pa – the Drinking Partners podcast returns with a double dose of dynamic duos. Ed and Day welcome Jacquea Mae and Byron Nash of NASH.V.ILL in this energetic and exciting interview. Self-described super-fan Day and an inquisitive Ed listen in as Byron recounts his first introduction to Jacquea: “The spirit took over” and she joined in, from the audience, during his last song. The impromptu duet was so impressive that they teamed up to form NASH.V.ILL. There is never a dull moment as Ed and Day drop jokes in between questions and stories, proving that the Drinking Partners comedic magic has not faded. Jacquea's advises on how important making mistakes are to better one's skills, and Byron explains how their on-stage improvisation that often results in unexpected and thrilling performances. Byron's advice, midway through, is a must listen: “If you are brave enough to suck in front of people, you fix it way faster.” It wouldn't be a true Drinking Partners episode without Ed breaking into song - stay tuned throughout to hear his renditions. The closing minutes of this newest Drinking Partners focuses on industry-specific advice and guidance from Jacquea and Byron, including a discussion on collaborative projects and sharing ideas. Intermixed with the sage wisdom are saucy interludes from Ed, rounding out a lively and mighty interview.

Just popping in with an update. New episodes are on the way. We'll be back recording on location around the city at some of our favorite spots with some of our favorite people. 

After seven years podcasting from the Work Hard Studio, the Drinking Partners record their last interview in the basement they've come to love, and much to Ed and Day's sadness, the couch won't be moving to their new space with Epicast Network. For this final interview, they welcome Mike Hitt from MCM Studios, or as he describes himself, “the most known unknown person.” In this high energy episode, Mike explains his rise in the Pittsburgh music industry after a car accident changed the trajectory of his path. As both a musician and music producer, he shares multi-angled insight into the industry, including how 90% of his work happens behind the scenes and that passion is the necessary push when people aren't watching. This “throw himself into the fire” approach began when he was 14 and starting out as a deejay and continues now as he releases his hit, “Think and Grow Rich.” Listen in as Mike speaks on how to run a successful studio; tip one: he shows up no matter what. Keep tuned in as he offers further tips, which Ed and Day have fun with, which takes the conversation into new, wild directions. How to get better? Expand your experiences, Mike suggests. To hear Ed and Day wrap up the last Work Hard-based podcast and reminisce on their time, stay tuned until the final moments. Find out more about Mike Hitt: https://www.mikehitt.com

The Drinking Partners relaunch with this newest episode and welcome a political powerhouse duo – Wilkinsburg Mayor-elect Dontae Comans and Ashley Comans, a candidate for PA House District 24. Listen in as the Comans describe their entries into politics, from Ms. Comans motivated by Barak Obama's speeches to Mr. Comans learning how to run for political office after years spent in community services and activities. A positive and intentional focus on how young people view a community is a central concept in the discussion on how to improve an area and its schools. In the spirit of the Drinking Partners, a detailed conversation around the benefits that breweries and bars add to a community is explored, with Wilkinsburg engaged in these changes with their new leadership. An essential question that is examined throughout the interview is: How to get a community to believe in itself? Mayor-elect Comans offers parting advice on how to remain optimistic as advocates for change: keep your work life separate from your home life. Candidate Comans adds her own advice as she suggests spending time with loved ones and finding joy outside of the political spectrum. Find Mayor-elect Donte Comans around Wilkinsburg (and say hello!) and learn more about Candidate Comans: www.ashleyforpa24.com. Catch Ed and Day Thursday, Dec.16 at Cinderlands Foederhouse in their newest live comedy series, or, as Ed begs, “Give me a reason to get out of the house.”

The Drinking Partners release this live podcast recorded outside of the Two Fray's Brewery in Pittsburgh, PA. A collection of tastings makes this episode lively as Ed and Day interview Mike Onofray, one-half of the husband and wife-owned brewery. In the early minutes, Mike explains how they managed to open Two Frays during the pandemic and how a canning line was a significant reason for why they were able to quickly adapt. Importantly, Two Frays ownership speaks on how they want to be community partner and are working hard to creating a safe and welcoming environment for people of color, while also having “super crushable beer.” What happens when two engineers open a brewery? Listen in as Mike explains the science behind brewing. Visit Two Frays and learn more about their newly opened brewery: www.twofraysbrewery.com In the second half of the live podcast, the Drinking Partners welcome Marcus Wyatt, who gets immediate props from Ed for his sneaker choice. After an embarrassing moment ordering a Heineken, Marcus caught the craft beer buzz, which led to his start in home brewing. His goal: to use his passion for craft beer to bring different communities together and to be a Black presence in the production side of the industry to encourage vertical integration for the Black community. One day soon you might be sipping on a beer he brews in a brewery he owns. Follow Marcus's journey on social media: @windybridgesbrewing  

Aaron Hosé, an award-winning documentary filmmaker and co-founder (his wife is his other half) of 2Hands20Fingers, joins the Drinking Partners for their latest release. Listeners might recognize his work as he has followed and filmed Ed and Day over the course of the last several years. In the coming weeks, his documentary, “One Pint at a Time,” will be released. The film features the rise of Fresh Fest, the transition to Fresh Fest Digi Fest, and now Barrel & Flow Fest. One Pint at a Time is best described as, “four years in the making, this eye-opening film details the highs and lows of the Black experience in American craft beer as told through the eyes of Black brewers, brand owners and influencers across the country.” Aaron explains how the film came to be, how he switched careers from computer engineering to filmmaking, and how the stories expanded and adapted during the course of filming. Asked why he made the film, Aaron answers, “No one looked like us,” when his wife and he visited breweries. A spectacular podcast with equal parts education and entertainment. Visit https://onepintfilm.com for information on release dates, view a trailer, and learn more about the African roots of beer and brewing.

The Drinking Partners welcome Jervonne Singletary, Community Relations Manager of goodblend PA for this latest release. As Pennsylvania's newest medical cannabis provider, goodblend promises, “We're here to make sure you're good.” Their approach is one centered on community engagement and initiatives and extends far beyond their high quality products to include job opportunities, expungement services, and other community-based initiatives. Listen in as all aspects of the medical cannabis industry are examined, including how minority communities have been adversely affected and what changes can be expected as legalization efforts expand. Ed and Day explore their own histories in typical style, with entertaining asides and immense interest in all that is being discussed! Of particular interest is the “design your own strain” concept, with both Ed and Day excited about the naming prospects. Tune in until the end to hear Jervonne's thoughts on being a Black woman in the medical cannabis industry and, unsurprisingly, what her favorite potato is. Learn more about goodblend: https://pa.goodblend.com

The North Carolina-based Wicked Weed brewing team of Joe Pawelek as brewmaster and Jen Currier as WInemaster and sour specialist, remotely join the Drinking Partners in this newest quarantimes release. The duo, with the company since its early years, share highly specialized information about brewing as they explain the fermentation processes they prefer and how their experimentation helped the company grown and expand. The Funkatorium, described as, “the East Coast's first sour beer dedicated taproom,” is located in Asheville and, along with their other locations, has become a beer tourist destination. Ed and Day interrupt the shop talk to ask about exploding cans, the Asheville scene, and the difference between German sour beer and Belgian sour beer. Listen in as Day attempts to pronounce them both, and fails. Ed enjoys the Dr. Dank, while Day sips the Pernicious, as Joe and Jen breakdown the recipes and brewing steps used to maximize the natural ingredients. This latest Drinking Partners release promises to be a delicious treat for listeners who enjoy the “nerdy” aspects of brewing. Find out more about Wicked Weed Brewing: www.wickedweedbrewing.com

One half of the Steve and Benny's Chicken Shack restaurant team joins the Drinking Partners for their latest quarantimes release. Listen in as Benny talks about the connection between food and art, highlighting the creativity aspect of cooking. His early passion for food brought him to New Orleans, where he developed a love for the Southern style and culture. Under some distinguished tutelage, Benny flourished and decided that he wanted his food to “feel like it's giving you a hug.” This statement has Ed ogling the food from Steve and Benny's in a whole new way. The first step in turning this love into a business was establishing a food truck. After several years, he partnered with Steve, which reinvigorated his love for cooking. The two were able to combine their passion for cooking with a strong business acumen. Benny shares some exclusive news with Ed and Day as he announces their newest venture: Monaca Brewing Company, a brewery that they will open next-door to their restaurant. Keep up to date with their developments and newest menu offerings: www.steveandbennys.com.

Four friends turned a longtime love of homebrewing into their own brewery, with some amusing steps in between. What started as a joke shifted into suppling fresh beer to their neighborhood and ended with a vinyl-infused brewery: Inner Groove Brewing. Co-owners Kelly Melle and Jennifer Walzer join the Drinking Partners and share the success story of their two-year old brewery in this insider look into the workings of the industry. Of particular interest to Ed and Day is the graphic art that spins a tale across their cans. They soon learn that the cans contain a hidden, music-inspired message. Listen in as Ed and Day try to put the clues together (and fail) for what they're drinking. Both women talk about the transitions necessary to survive during the pandemic and how they keep any business difficulties in perspective. Hear about how their large taproom and two outdoor spaces and dedicated local support helped keep the young brewery afloat over the last 18 months. This newest Drinking Partners release offers an informative and detailed look into how breweries have been affected and can survive trying times. Learn more: www.innergroovebrewing.com

Ren Navarro of beer-diversity.com joins the Drinking Partners virtually from Canada and offers insight into the Canadian beer scene, most of which surprises Ed, who did not “see Canada having grass.” After an opening discussion that listeners will find amusing, the trio discusses more serious concerns, from coping with the pandemic to diverse ownership in business and beer. What does diversity mean in 2021? That question becomes the central focus of the interview as they explore its impact on the craft beer industry. Ren's advice for breweries: Do your homework. She shares important additional tips as well: make a space welcoming and educate drinkers on the similarities between craft beer and macro beer, so craft beer can be accessible to all. Except babies, who Day does not want at breweries. Enjoy this fun, yet significant conversation and find more about Ren Navarro: www.beer-diversity.com

A full slate of voices is featured in the latest Drinking Partners interview as founding members of Black Women for Better Education share their idea on how to transform the Pittsburgh Public School system. One of the group’s main priorities is to educate voters, residents, parents, and students on how to improve the PPS education experience by supporting five candidates running for school board positions. A common bond shared by the the candidates is to change the status quo and connect the board with the community to ensure responsible representation. Listen in as student enrichment, relationship building, social issues and engagement, and quality of education are examined and explored by this panel of dedicated experts. Find out more about the candidates: www.blackwomen4abettereducation.com

Sam Black, founder of SYLA PGH, joins the Drinking Partners to discuss a behind the scenes approach to supporting artists by helping them gain access to funding and resources. By analyzing novel approaches and outside the box options, Ms. Black assists artists by lowering barriers and encouraging new ways of marketing and promotion with a logistical model. Listen in as she speaks on how to communicate and connect with a diverse cast of characters and how she uses that skill to help others, in what she explains as a “holistic look at the economic factors that keep Black Pittsburgh neighborhoods below the poverty line.” This inclusive, multi-scope advancement cannot be achieved without artist input, Ms. Black summarizes. The issue of underpaying and devaluing artists, one that the Drinking Partners have long attempted to dissuade, anchors the interview and is explored from many angles. In the closing segment, the group lets loose, and the discussion centers on talking to plants and waffle fries, in a tangent that listeners should expect and enjoy. Find more about Sam Black, SYLA PGH, and Greenwood Week: www.greenwoodweekpgh.com

Dusan Kwiatkowski, head brewer for Austin-based Live Oak Brewing, joins the Drinking Partners virtually for this newest release. From the opening minutes, the conversation is beer-centric, with a heavy emphasis on the European-styled beer offerings Live Oak brews. Day sips on the 4.9% Big Bark, an amber lager, while Ed enjoys a Biergarten Pils - a German-Style pilsner with German Huell-Melon hops. Live Oak Brewing has been around since 1997, or, as Ed suggests, 102 beer years, and Dusan explains how the brewery has remained successful even as the industry has changed. “We just keep making the beers that have been made for thousands of years.” Listen in as Dusan examines brewing trends and which ones they have followed and which ones they leave to other breweries. After a start with Live Oak washing kegs, Mr. Kwiatkowski moved into brewing as the brewery itself grew. “Where do you go as a brewer after making lights-out shit?” is what Day wants to know. Enjoy the full interview that has Ed and Day testing their craft beer knowledge with an expert in the industry. Learn more about Live Oak Brewing: www.liveoakbrewing.com

Pittsburgh-based filmmaker Jay “Ruff Bone” White (Jay White Digital Media) joins the Drinking Partners in their latest Quarantimes release. After childhood inspiration from his grandfather stoked his interests in filmmaking, Jay began exploring ways to document his neighborhood and beyond. From there, he began exploring ways to make documentaries for several Pittsburgh neighborhoods that are underrepresented in media. Listen in as he describes how he allows these new narratives to be filmed and shared. Video and documentary production transitioned into a feature film – Everyday Hustle. Midway through, the group discusses the importance of investing in yourself and your own talents, with Ed and Day taking some time to be serious, introspective, personal, and encouraging. What does it take to be self-made? That’s the question that is explored and examined with Jay White. Find out more about his latest project, a wrestling-centric comedy: https://jaydigitalmedia.com

Chalonda White, host of This Chick Talks Beer podcast and curator of Afro.Beer.Chick, joins Ed and Day to talk about her start in the beer industry, one that has become instrumental for connecting Black drinkers. As an expert in beer and bourbon, she talks both with Ed and Day and also shares her extensive knowledge of the Chicago brewing scene – one that includes 160+ breweries. Listen in as she offers a hilarious take on how she keeps her “liver poppin’” before turning serious and discusses the lack of urban breweries. Midway through, the conversation gets personal, and wildly entertaining, as the trio discusses the mix of the personal and professional. Ms. White explains how her other project, The Neat Pour, a podcast she hosts with her husband, has been affected by the pandemic and how bourbon helps keep things smoothed over. Ed and Day sip a Black is Beautiful collab from Modern Methods, one that was brewed by Hannah Ferguson, Ohio’s only female Black brewer, and features cocoa nibs and strawberry. Day places the collab in his top three, and Ms. White lists her own favorites and places Second Shift out of St. Louis as her favorite. The closing segment explores the different beer crazes as Afro.Beer.Chick begs for a, “a good, clean, old-fashioned IPA.” A fantastic listen from start to finish. Find more about Chalonda White across social media: @afro.beer.chick

The Drinking Partners bring comedy back on tap as they welcome comic Marcus Cox and reminisce on their early days as performers. It doesn’t take long for the jokes and jabs to start and the laughter to spread as Ed and Day banter back and forth and Marcus joins in, which listeners will recognize as a true return to form for the Drinking Partners. The trio gets momentarily serious as they discuss comedy as a profession during pandemic times and the difficulties that have accompanied closed stages and venues. And then the conversation transitions into oversized belt buckles, earrings, and other aughts-centric style, as Ed remarks, “These kids don’t know.” This latest Drinking Partners release is more than just entertainment, as it fully explores several angles of careers in comedy, from financial security to self-preservation and promotion, with Marcus explaining how his own business ventures - MC Auto Detailing - has helped support him throughout the last year. Another classic Drinking Partners listen, filled with philosophy on comedy and beyond, and one that offers enough laughs to last until the next release. Yet also offers some hate for crinkle cut fries. Find Marcus on Facebook as Marcus Cox and on IG: @marcuscomedy86

The Drinking Partners, especially Ed, excitedly welcome Anthony “Sizzle” Perry, the founder of Crafted Culture Brewing Company in Columbus, Ohio. This interview sets itself apart from the opening segment as Sizzle explains how he “accidentally” fell into brewing after a stint as a fill-in bartender, which led to various jobs across the brewing industry, including as a delivery man. Or, as Ed suggests. Mr. Perry is, “The Drinking Partners meets Will Smith in the Pursuit of Happiness.” But Sizzle had a marketing strategy of his own: “If you want to gain yards in this game, go where they ain’t.” He presented his idea to the COO of the company where he worked as the top salesman, yet his proposal was brushed off as nonsensical. From there, he decided to pursue brewing on his own, starting first as a home brewer. With creativity and a focus on bringing soul into brewing, Mr. Perry paired up with a lifetime friend and a professional brewer and opened Crafted Culture, Central Ohio’s first Black-owned brewery. Along with the brewery, Mr. Perry wants to focus on #beerthechange, a budding nonprofit that he hopes will help give back to diverse communities. Give this interview a full listen and enjoy the witty banter and deep business insights that have Ed feeling envious. Find more about Crafted Culture: www.craftedculturebrew.com

According to Ed, Day is in “mid-season form,” as the Drinking Partners get back to the studio for number 6ish of their Quarantimes podcast series. Both excitedly welcome Trace Brewing owner David Kushner and brewer Zach Colton, as Ed and Day sample Moonpond, a balanced IPA with Galaxy and Columbus hops. The duo met while both were working at Harpoon Brewing and discuss how they ended up in Pittsburgh and the origins of Trace Brewing, which opened in December 2020 for carryout. Up next on tap is Love is the Way, a citrusy IPA with gooseberry, passionfruit, and lychee, which causes Ed and Day to take the conversation in a whole new (and freaky) direction. Continue listening as Zach details his long and winding history around beer, which strikingly readied him to become Trace’s head brewer and experiment with spontaneously fermented beer. The short story? Zach started as a “beer here” guy and ended up in the Seine Valley region of Belgium learning about Lambic beer. Want to know how the pandemic affects what beers Trace is brewing? Tune in as they explain how the canning process and at-home drinking influences the beer style decisions. Day proves he’s a big fan of Trace Brewing as he applauds how inclusive the staff and taproom of the newly opened brewery is and their 6-month vocational program that is committed to “diversifying the brewing industry.” Enjoy this uplifting interview that encircles all the best that the craft beer industry can offer as the Drinking Partners return to their fun and frolicking selves. Learn more about Trace Brewing: www.tracebloomfield.com.

“You used to see us out in public,” Ed announces as he changes up the Drinking Partners opening bit and welcomes back listeners. Another alteration for 2020? The Drinking Partners will accept contactless deliveries of Hennessy. A reunited and rejuvenated Ed and Day welcome Courtney Williamson, CEO and Founder of AbiliLife: “A company dedicated to designing and developing products to improve the quality of life for patients with Parkinson's and other neurodegenerative diseases.” Ms. Williamson discusses her personal shift from pursuing a PhD to medical product design, which came out of a desire to assist her mother, who suffered from Parkinson’s. What started as a passion project with the support of Carnegie Mellon’s start-up incubator Project Olympus quickly developed into something more, which is detailed and examined throughout the podcast. An intriguing and uplifting interview, and one that joyously brings Ed and Day back into the studio. To learn more about AbiliLife, visit www.abililife.com. And stay tuned to hear more comedy on tap from the Drinking Partners!

The Drinking Partners go worldwide with this latest and Fresh Fest Digi Fest exclusive release as they welcome Stacey Ayeh from Rock Leopard Brewing in London, England. After getting his start on the sales end of brewing, Mr. Ayeh decided to start homebrewing, yet faced hurdles to get his products on the shelves despite how well-received they were and how successful he had been selling other brewers’ products. He relates how Paul Jones of Cloudwater Brew Company became a quick and dedicated fan of his brewing, and it was his support that finally allowed Mr. Ayeh’s beers to gain attention. Stacey sips on his own West Coast-styled IPA, he talks about the current trends in British brewing: juicy and hazy. What message would Stacey Ayeh like to share? “Black people can make good beer and it’s being sold near where I live.” To learn more about Rock Leopard Brewing and Stacey Ayeh, visit: www.rockleopardbrewing.com

Much to Ed’s delight, Ohio is in the building, at least virtually, as the Drinking Partners welcome co-owners Mike and Greg and head brewer Jared from Alematic Ales, out of Huber Heights, Ohio. Both Ed and Day admit love for the Alematic beer names, which leads to a conversation on the connection between recipe development and beer monikers. Or, as head brewer Jared states, “We try not to brew boring styles,” as they get inspiration from the culinary world. Listen in as Greg talks about how Alematic incorporates an underground hip hop element into their brewery’s vibe and how their multicultural staff encourages and creates a welcoming place for all kinds of beer drinkers. An especially important analysis of how Covid-19 had affected breweries happens near the midway point. Craft beer fans across the country will be able to sample Alematic Ale’s collaboration with 11th Hour Brewing for Fresh Fest Digi Fest through Tavour and Beverages 2 U. Learn more about Alematic at: https://www.alematicbrewing.com.

Want to know what Ed means when he refers to a “trench coat beer?” Listen in to the latest quarantine-edition of the Drinking Partners for that explanation and more as Ed and Day interview Alex Bard, the COO of Hear Corp, a 2020 sponsor of Fresh Fest Digi Fest. Alex speaks on his company’s founding and how Hear Corp grew into a full service live event production company, which at times is like playing Risk, he admits. Midway through, Alex discusses his involvement with 25 Carrick Ave, a community learning center for event technology. The non-profit program’s goals are to provide education in production and broadcast and open a creative arts center for Pittsburgh-based artists. Check out how Hear Corp is adapting by checking out their live stream channel, Live at 25. The podcast wraps up with Day talking about his pandemic wardrobe and his new aversion to jeans and love for “fancy sweats,” and reminds listeners that the Drinking Partners still offer comedy on tap, even from their front porches.

The Drinking Partners, in conjunction with the City of Pittsburgh's Inclusive Innovation, podcast from their porches with a trio of dazzling and consequential women. Listen in as Ed and Day interview Mayor Marita Garrett, Representative Sara Innamarato, and Director of Diversity and Inclusion with the Pittsburgh Technology Council Gina Winstead. Up first, of course, is what they are sipping on: a port wine, an IC Light Mango, and a pretzel beer, which Ed and Day fear is a major flex on them. After a steady supply of jokes, Mayor Garrett and Rep. Innamarato discuss community engagement during pandemic times, while Ms. Winstead explains the technical side of the digital shift and how essential it is to help small businesses make the change. The central focus of this Drinking Partners episode is the importance of the US Census and how technology impacts the 2020 census. “If you’re not counted, you literally do not count,” Mayor Garrett reminds listeners, especially in Black and Latinx communities. Rep. Innamarato expands upon this by explaining that the number counts are used to help bring money back into communities, from infrastructure to school lunches to healthcare. The women answer and address concerns about the privacy of the census answers, gerrymandering, how this census is the first that can be done online, and various other concerns. Midway through, during a question and answer segment from those watching on Zoom, the responses become a bit more animated and lot more amusing. A classic Drinking Partners interview, with the as-expected mixture of merriment and useful information.

The Drinking Partners welcome local business owner Justin Strong as they adapt to the times and hold a remote interview, although all three share a beer. Justin sips an East End Big Hop, while Ed samples a Rusty Rail Luminous, a golden stout that leads the conversation elsewhere. Day leaves his dry April behind with the much-coveted Dark Berry Fruit Whip from Cellar Works. What have the men learned during their stays at home? Listen in as they talk about how domesticated they have become, a conversation that leads to several rounds of laughter as they share “survival” stories, and Justin teaches the importance of cranberry sauce. Day speaks on the emerging model of streaming, virtual entertainment as they speculate on what live events will look like in the coming months. Check out Justin’s dry cleaning businesses, www.strongfabriccare.com, which are currently operating with some modifications.

Day spends the opening minutes of the latest Drinking Partners podcast munching and mumbling as guest host Derek Minto does the heavy verbal lifting and welcomes Neil Glausier of Burgh’ers Brewing. Right away, the trio looks into how Burgh’ers Brewing models their business and focuses on a farm to table approach, from “happy cows” to neighborhood-centric burgers. As Day samples Head Chef Fiore Moletz’s Polish Hill burger, the group sips on an American light lager, the 1890 Lager, which allows Neil to detail how he brews in a thorough, informative manner. How do you get a beer to be clear and beautiful? It’s more difficult than you might think, but listen in for a truly brewing-centric conversation, including how to maintain an environmentally sustainable model and how the idealized image of brewing quickly dissolves once you begin to run a business. For those looking to get a brewery experience in these hard times, the interview offers a safe and informative alternative. Find Derek Minto at Burning Bridges Comedy Club and find Burgh’ers Brewing at www.burgherspgh.com

In this special Drinking Partners release, Day visits Portland, Maine and interviews Rob Tod, founder of Allagash Brewing, who literally pieced together and welded (from dairy equipment!) the original brewery in the mid 1990’s. The opening minutes have Mr. Tod discussing his early vision for Allagash and focus on the Belgian brewing tradition. Wondering which beers not to serve cold? Rob answers that and more during this detailed interview that offers inside access to brewing and business from one of the originals in the craft beer industry. Listeners will be surprised to hear how slowly Allagash developed, employing only four people after their first ten years. Why did Rob Tod persist? Midway, he answers that while describing the down moments that he struggled through to keep the brewery going and why he values his current employees so much. This newest Drinking Partners podcast with one of craft brewery’s best also highlights what the Drinking Partners do best: examine the industry from their own distinctive perspective and with humor and joy.

Comedian Derek Minto jumps right into guest hosting in Ed’s place as Day opens a care package from Troeg’s and Derek shares his envious thoughts. Fittingly the two comics welcome a third, nationally-touring Felicia Gillespie who opens up about her start in comedy at age 8! Listeners will enjoy the vibe created when three stand-up acts sip on barrel-aged beer and reflect on their approaches to the art of comedy. Even more interesting is when Felicia discusses being a “road comic” and what comes along with that choice, especially as a woman. The conversation never slows and the jokes continue to flow as Derek seamlessly co-hosts, and the emphasis stays true to the comedy half of the Drinking Partners show. Looking for a hint on how to be a good stand up comic? Derek tells listeners that you have to know how to perform, have a unique delivery, and be able to be concise. Felicia shares her own greatest advice: Not to take advice. A fantastic hour of entertainment to keep you sane during this trying times. Find Felicia Gillespie on Twitter: @curiousfelicia and Instagram @fel.ish.ah

Denise Greenway, owner and bar manager for The Tavern, joins the Drinking Partners to share what makes The Tavern so distinct: Pennsylvania-based beer, wine, and spirits and adding modern touches to old classics. “Only local,” Ms. Greenway emphasizes, citing how important it is that bars support local production. Equally important is providing an education to customers and explaining the influences and processes behind what they serve. Listen in as she teaches what a beer cocktail is, and Ed adds the Cleveland take on a similar drink, “The Cleveland Special.” Ms. Greenway teaches more as she explains why the classic cocktails are still so important and highlights the creativity behind crafting recipes. An in-depth, fast, and highly informative interview that goes beyond just what a local bar offers and shows what it can. Find The Tavern here: https://www.facebook.com/thetavernpgh/.

The Drinking Partners welcome Jerry Dickinson, a constitutional law and property professor at the University of Pittsburgh and candidate for the Pennsylvania’s 18th Congressional District. Both Ed and Day are smitten with Professor Dickinson from the opening introduction and offer a ringing endorsement: he has an “electable face.” Speaking on the importance of defending democracy and being a champion for the people, Mr. Dickinson shares his own personal story, one that began in the Pittsburgh foster care system. Now, he seeks to be a “transformational leader,” one who will not accept corporate PAC money and supports grassroot movements. Listen in for a real conversation about policy and plans and a comprehensive discussion on how Mr. Dickinson wants to make certain that no residents of the 18th District are left behind. Stay tuned until the closing minutes to hear his 30-second elevator pitch and his favorite form of potato. To learn more about Jerry Dickinson, visit his website: www.jerrydickinson.com.

Nate Kresge of GK Visual joins the Drinking Partners and talks about his award-winning documentary, Poured in Pennsylvania, which explores the state’s beer-centric history. The full-length film goes deeper than just breweries and beer and examines the stories and people behind the surging craft beer industry across Pennsylvania. Nearly seventy breweries are featured throughout the documentary, and, with more stories to tell, the production company is now working on a regular series. Midway through, Ed and Day lead Nate off-topic as the group talks sneakers, with some hilarious results, before discussing current trends: barrel-aged stouts, low ABV beers, and brewery-made seltzers. Listen in for a preview of what stories to expect to see during the film, which is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video and find out more: http://www.pouredinpa.com.

What started off in old school bus purchased in Philadelphia has now grown into a soon-to-be-open restaurant in the North Side as The Coop Chicken & Waffles takes flight. Justin Fitzgerald, co-owner and a Texas native, joins the Drinking Partners to talk about his transition to Pittsburgh living and the family recipes that have made their food truck so popular in and around the city. Mr. Fitzgerald offers an inside look into the switch from operating a food truck to opening a storefront and the ups and downs that go along with that change. Both Ed and Day are thrilled when Justin offers to co-host in exchange for chicken. Listen in for clues about what makes their chicken so special (14 ingredients!) and why they insist upon a fresh, made to order, and customer first approach. Keep up with The Coop Chicken & Waffles: www.thecooppgh.com and @thecooppgh across social media.

The Drinking Partners invite Gary Olden and Andy Kwiatkowski of Hitchhiker Brewing back to the podcast, which Ed predicts will be a fun interview, as the paired names of Gary and Andy “sounds like a good time.” The owner/brewer duo stop by to discuss their newest venture: a new Downtown location that will be both a taproom and espresso bar. They celebrate by sipping on Usual Chaos, or as Day puts it, “an 80’s band in a glass,” a kettle sour with blackberries and raspberries. Andy gets specific about current beer trends and how that affects his brewing choices. Midway though, the laughs come as Ed quizzes Andy and Gary about who is the more passive aggressive partner. Next, they sample a blended hop beer, or as Ed calls it, “a mystery spin on Mario Cart.” Listen in as they discuss their goals as a brewery, from national recognition to making their beer better. In the latter half, Gary shares their goals for the newest venture, “Coffee during the day, beer at night.” A must listen episode for beer lovers, especially those who enjoy hearing about what goes into the development behind the scenes with a real focus on brewing, both beer and coffee. Find Hitchhiker Brewing: www.hitchhiker.beer

The Drinking Partners welcome hip hop artist/speaker/activist Brittney Chantele, who introduces Ed and Day to her distinctive style of mixing music and visual art. Her mixed genre approach gets explained as she examines Pittsburgh’s music scene while reflecting on her own story, one that is just as dynamic as the music and art she creates. Listen in as Brittney talks about both the artistic and business side of collaborations and how she chooses which projects to develop and what shows to take. Midway through, Ms. Chantele offers an intimate analysis of her upcoming album (release date: 2/17/2020), “The Golden Opportunity,” and how her military experience impacted it. Listen in for an important discussion that centers on topics raised during that conversation. A fast, fierce, and frank interview that is both enjoyable and valuable. Brittney Chantele’s album release party for “The Golden Opportunity” will be held at the Thunderbird Café on February 22 at 8pm, or find more information about her music, art, and activism at www.brittneychantele.com.

Live from Fresh Fest 2019, the Drinking Partners enthusiastically welcome Brooklyn Brewery’s brewmaster, Garrett Oliver, or as Ed calls him, “Mr. Renaissance.” With an audience as excited as both Ed and Day watching, Mr. Oliver gets right into what he sees as the recovery of the American food industry, one that was deceptive for decades. He effortlessly teaches history to those listening by exploring the rich, multi-cultural history of American cuisine, one that was replaced by “food facsimiles.” The trio then examines how to expand the perimeters of the craft beer scene to allow it to be more inclusive and approachable, a shared goal of everyone on the panel and the purpose behind the Fresh Fest Beer Fest. There’s beer drinking, too, to be sure as Ed and Day taste a smooth 9% Belgian strong golden that was heavily influenced by a Belgian brewer who came to New York to teach Mr. Oliver the re-fermentation process. The story also highlights what can happen when people share their keys. In the latter minutes of the podcast, the live audience gets involved during a question and answer session that is filled with relevant queries and compelling answers. A must listen podcast that glows bright with the interesting, ancient history of brewing, one that began in communities of color. “We were all supposed to be in the same damn room in the first place having a good time,” Mr. Oliver reminds the crowd in the final moments. To learn more about the James Beard award-winning Garrett Oliver, view his remarkable style, and hear his inspiring philosophies, visit: https://brooklynbrewery.com/our-story/

Cue Perry, artist and entrepreneur, visits with the Drinking Partners in the latest podcast release. As an artist who wants his work to “speak to the wild, creative, open minds who dare to express themselves,” CB Perry is known for pushing boundaries, from body painting to deconstructing pop culture with a humorous touch. In the early minutes, he talks about how to move from artist to businessman and how to monetize your passion, which he has done successfully as a full-time artist for the last year by focusing on peer-to-peer mentoring, marketing and sales, pricing, and time management. Aside from his business approach, Cue also shares his artistic approach, which Ed and Day take in their own strange (and NSFW) direction. You’ll be left shaking your head after that body-centric conversation. Ed and day settle down to discuss other artsy things, such as when Cue knows a piece of his work is finished and how he values them. Listeners might enjoy his explanation of how his work is interpreted and what control he has over that process. Cue Perry will be featured as the Artist-in-Residence for the University of Pittsburgh’s Center for Urban Education on January 30 from 6 – 7:30pm at Posvar Hall, where he will display his work and talk about his yearlong “Witnessing” theme. Find him online at: https://www.facebook.com/CBPerryArt/.

As the Drinking Partners start the new year with a call for feedback as they head into year 6, they also institute some new rules of their own, like warning their guests of the “dangerous 9” they are sipping from Allagash Brewing. After coming up with a creative name for such a strong beer, Ed and Day introduce Keven, Jesse, and Ben from Los Vampiros Amarillos, a Pittsburgh-based rock band with a blues-infused sound who talk about the band’s equally-creative name, one that they adopted after their original name no longer worked (listen in for why). Their advice for new bands: Decide what you don’t want to sound like, which all three discuss as they share how they blended their individual musical sounds into a unified one. Another important tip centers on when and why to say no to gigs. The similarities between stand-up comedy and live music are compared and contrasted before the interview wraps up with more talk about beer and potatoes. Some things won’t change for 2020, including the Drinking Partner’s obsession with potatoes. To find out more about Los Vampiros Amarillos, visit: www.facebook.com/LosVampirosAmarillos/.

Ed and Day try to convince their latest guest to embrace her superhero-like name: Captain Battle. Listen in to find out what comedienne Leslie Battle thinks of their antics before she schools them both with the experience that has come from her years as a woman and as a veteran. Now, as a comic, she explores life as a “mother, soldier, divorcee, and performer.” The interview expands well beyond that scope as Ms. Battle discusses her life as a Black woman; at times, the conversation is analytical and thoughtful before shifting to humorous fun, in the way that comics do best. At all times, the interview is a fast-paced and compelling listen as the stage-loving trio playfully competes for airtime. Stay tuned until the closing segment to hear why Leslie chose stand-up comedy and how it has been therapeutic for her. And listen especially close as Day asks, “What’s the cougar scene looking like?” You’ll find the Drinking Partners in their true habitat during the last twenty minutes as it gets rowdy and hilarious. To see where you can catch Leslie Battle next, visit her website: www.lesliebattlecomedy.com.

Long-time listeners will be relieved to hear from Jennifer Dickquist, founding partner of JD Law, the official law firm of the Drinking Partners. Ms. Dickquist offers legal advice from the opening segment, sharing real tips to Ed, Day, and everyone tuning in. Curious about the oddest legal situation that the Drinking Partners have found themselves in? For Day, it was jaywalking, and for Ed, it was for waiting for a friend outside a club. Their playful admissions lead to a serious conversation about the racial inequalities prevalent throughout the judicial system. More, Attorney Dickquist offers tips on how best to navigate through to ensure the best outcome. Around the midway point, Ed and Day let the jokes loose, sharing tales of criminality in hilarious ways. For her part, Ms. Dickquist shares her own stories of some of her more memorable cases. An important, information-filled interview that shines a light on the legal system. Find Jennifer Dickquist at www.jdlawpa.com and learn more about her law practice and specialties. Last chance for NEW YEAR | NEW GALAXY tickets!!! >>> bit.ly/NewYearNewGalaxy