The Spirited Advocate Podcast brings together leaders in the distilled spirits industry to discuss pressing issues of the day. The spirits industry is comprised of so much more than alcohol producers– its farmers, manufacturers, distillers and more here in the U.S. and around the globe. Host Chris Swonger and his guests explore it all while enjoying their favorite cocktail or distilled spirit.
Distilled Spirits Council of the United States
On this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, our host Chris Swonger is joined by the great Brent Looby, one of the Co-Founders and the CEO of Desert Door, a unique distillery specializing in Sotol, a spirit that is distilled from the sotol plant that is native to the Chihuahua desert. For hundreds of years, this spiky desert succulent has been used by the indigenous peoples for everything from tools and food to fermented drink, and now a fine spirit handmade in Driftwood, Texas. Brent is here to share his story of building Desert Door and discusses how Sotol is becoming the next big thing in the spirits industry. So don't miss this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, brought to you by The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States.Follow UsTwitter @DistilledSpirit Facebook @DistilledSpiritsCouncilUSInstagram @distilledspiritscouncilLinkedIn @DistilledSpirtsCouncilPresented by Distilled Spirits Council of the United Stateswww.distilledspirits.org
On this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, our host Chris Swonger sits down to celebrate DISCUS' 50TH ANNIVERSARY with the wonderful Jim Bareuther, an industry veteran with more than 30 years of experience in the beverage alcohol industry. Jim has an incredibly impressive career, including his 17-year tenure at Brown-Forman and serving as a three-time chairman of DISCUS. For this special episode, Jim shares his insights on the industry's evolution over the last few decades, the exciting opportunities ahead, and the different policy accomplishments that led to historic milestones for the spirits industry. So don't miss this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, brought to you by The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States.Follow UsTwitter @DistilledSpirit Facebook @DistilledSpiritsCouncilUSInstagram @distilledspiritscouncilLinkedIn @DistilledSpirtsCouncilPresented by Distilled Spirits Council of the United Stateswww.distilledspirits.org
On this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, our host Chris Swonger is joined by Master Distiller, Bruce Joseph. Bruce is an industry veteran who has been instrumental in putting American whiskey on the map. In this episode we'll be talking to Bruce about his amazing career, where he sees the spirits industry moving in the future, and the incredible work he is doing at Hotaling & Co., including championing the return of pot-distilled whiskey through the launch of Old Potrero. Don't miss this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, brought to you by The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States.Follow UsTwitter: @DistilledSpirit Facebook: @DistilledSpiritsCouncilUSInstagram: @distilledspiritscouncilLinkedIn: @DistilledSpirtsCouncilPresented by Distilled Spirits Council of the United Stateswww.distilledspirits.org
On this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, our host Chris Swonger is joined by the ultra-talented mixologist and winner of Netflix's “Drink Masters,” Lauren Paylor O'Brien! Having worked many roles in the food and beverage industry from Beverage Director, R&D Production Chef, and Beverage Consultant, LP now spends her time creating diverse, inclusive, and safe spaces through her work with Focus on Health and her consulting company LP Drinks Co. She joins Chris to discuss her journey becoming a renowned bartender, her unique approach to cocktails, and her insights into the future of the industry, including no/low abv drink trends. Don't miss this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, brought to you by The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States.Follow UsTwitter @DistilledSpirit Facebook @DistilledSpiritsCouncilUSInstagram @distilledspiritscouncilLinkedIn @DistilledSpirtsCouncilPresented by Distilled Spirits Council of the United Stateswww.distilledspirits.org
On this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, our host Chris Swonger is joined by Scott Neil, retired Special Forces veteran and the Co-Founder and COO of Horse Soldier Bourbon! Having significant executive, operational and combat experience, Scott knows a thing or two about how to get things done under pressure. Scott shares his story with Chris about making the transition from the battlefield to the distillery, the tradition and power of American made spirits, and some of the exciting plans that lay ahead for Horse Soldier Bourbon. Plus, the two raise a glass for Veterans Day to all of those brave men and women who serve and have served our country. Follow UsTwitter @DistilledSpirit Facebook @DistilledSpiritsCouncilUSInstagram @distilledspiritscouncilLinkedIn @DistilledSpirtsCouncilPresented by Distilled Spirits Council of the United Stateswww.distilledspirits.org
On this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, Chris Swonger sits down with Kaveh Zamanian, the founder, distiller, and CEO of Rabbit Hole Distillery! Kaveh was inducted into the Bourbon Hall of Fame in recognition of his transformational impact on Bourbon's stature, growth, and awareness. Today, Kaveh joins Chris to discuss the honor, as well as the incredible innovations that visionaries like himself are bringing to the category. Plus, hear Kaveh talk about his career pivots that led him to distilling.Follow UsTwitter @DistilledSpirit Facebook @DistilledSpiritsCouncilUSInstagram @distilledspiritscouncilLinkedIn @DistilledSpirtsCouncilPresented by Distilled Spirits Council of the United Stateswww.distilledspirits.org
On this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, Chris Swonger sits down with Scott and Becky Harris, the Founders and Owners of Catoctin Creek Distillery! Day to day, Becky is the Chief Distiller, while Scott is the General Manager at the distillery and together this dynamic husband and wife team has earned many accolades. This year, DISCUS presented them with the “Dave Pickerell Memorial Craft Member of the Year Award” for their outstanding service to the craft community across the country and in their home state of Virginia. Today, they join Chris to discuss their recent award, the importance of advocating for the industry and how they created such a successful operation. Follow UsTwitter @DistilledSpirit Facebook @DistilledSpiritsCouncilUSInstagram @distilledspiritscouncilLinkedIn @DistilledSpirtsCouncilPresented by Distilled Spirits Council of the United Stateswww.distilledspirits.org
Today on The Spirited Advocate Podcast, Chris Swonger is joined by Victoria Russell, the Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Beam Suntory and Chair of the DISCUS DEI Committee, and Dia Simms, CEO of Lobos 1707 and Co-Founder of Pronghorn! Together, the trio discuss how the spirits industry can create a more inclusive environment. Hear what shifts Victoria and Dia have already noticed during the course of their careers – plus the pair give advice for those looking to build a more diverse company, brand, or distillery.Follow UsTwitter @DistilledSpirit Facebook @DistilledSpiritsCouncilUSInstagram @distilledspiritscouncilLinkedIn @DistilledSpirtsCouncilPresented by Distilled Spirits Council of the United Stateswww.distilledspirits.org
On this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, CEO and co-founder of Siponey, Amanda Victoria, joins Chris Swonger to discuss the importance of sustainability in the distilled spirits industry. The pair talk about the rise of ready-to-drink beverages, what inspired Amanda to start Aperitif Hour, a cocktail, wine & spirits communication and education company, and her journey from bartender to brand founder.Follow UsTwitter @DistilledSpirit Facebook @DistilledSpiritsCouncilUSInstagram @distilledspiritscouncilLinkedIn @DistilledSpirtsCouncilPresented by Distilled Spirits Council of the United Stateswww.distilledspirits.org
Ian Smith, Keepers of the Quaich Chairman, joins Distilled Spirits Council's President & CEO, Chris Swonger on this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast to speak about the rich tradition of producing scotch whisky and the importance of celebrating those within the industry. Plus, hear about Chris' induction into the Keepers of the Quaich, as well as interviews from his visits to several distilleries in the gorgeous Scottish countryside. Follow UsTwitter @DistilledSpirit Facebook @DistilledSpiritsCouncilUSInstagram @distilledspiritscouncilLinkedIn @DistilledSpirtsCouncilPresented by Distilled Spirits Council of the United Stateswww.distilledspirits.org
Lora Hemy, Head Distiller at Roe & Co in Dublin, joins this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast to discuss her unconventional path to distilling Irish whiskey with Distilled Spirits Council's President & CEO, Chris Swonger. Plus, hear about the new Golden Age of Irish whiskey and how Roe & Co is blending history with innovation.Follow UsTwitter @DistilledSpirit Facebook @DistilledSpiritsCouncilUSInstagram @distilledspiritscouncilLinkedIn @DistilledSpirtsCouncilPresented by Distilled Spirits Council of the United Stateswww.distilledspirits.org
Actors Paul Wesley and Ian Somerhalder rose to stardom through their portrayal of brothers on the CW hit “The Vampire Diaries.” Now, they're leveraging the bond they built after nearly a decade on screen into “Brother's Bond Bourbon.” On this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, join Distilled Spirits Council's President & CEO, Chris Swonger, as he talks with Paul and Ian about how they got into the spirits business and what goes into making a great bourbon. Plus, hear about their passion for creating a sustainable industry and the powerful lesson Paul's grandfather taught him about values and tenacity that they bring into their business. Follow UsTwitter @DistilledSpirit Facebook @DistilledSpiritsCouncilUSInstagram @distilledspiritscouncilLinkedIn @DistilledSpirtsCouncilPresented by Distilled Spirits Council of the United Stateswww.distilledspirits.org
The distilled spirits industry is so much more than what's in your glass. It's made up of distillers, bartenders, farmers, manufacturers, and enthusiasts. On The Spirited Advocate Podcast, we share the stories of everyone who makes the spirits industry what it is. Join Chris Swonger, President and CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, as he shares a cocktail and a conversation with leaders, distillers, and contributors to the spirits industry. You'll hear new recipes, business advice, stories of passion, and how policy impacts the world of Distilled Spirits.
From a kitchen creation to a spirits shelf staple in nearly all 50 states. Kat Hantas and Sarika Singh, two of three co-founders of 21Seeds Tequila found their sweet spot in an industry with considerable barriers to entry. Find out how on this week's episode. Listen now!
On this week's episode of the Spirited Advocate podcast, DISCUS Chief of Public Policy Christine LoCascio takes the reins as host for an important episode on supply chain challenges with Jeff Weis, Partner and Supply Chain Team leader at StepToe. How will these challenges impact consumers this holiday season? Listen now to find out!
From a school bus in Indiana to the front lines to a distillery named Hotel Tango, our guests this week took an exciting path to get where they are today. Travis Barnes, Marine Veteran and Founder of Hotel Tango, joins the podcast alongside his childhood friend, Nick Ladig, President of Hotel Tango, as we commemorate Veteran's Day this month. Listen now!
From water to soil to grains, our environment affects every part of the spirits industry. At Brown-Forman, sustainability is key to their longevity. This week on the podcast, we welcome Alex Alvarez, Chief Production and Sustainability Officer at Brown-Forman, to discuss Brown-Forman's ongoing commitment to protect the world and the people and employees who inhabit it. Listen now!
It's not hard to love your job when you're Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum's Master Blender - and this next guest has been in the rum business for 40 years! This week we have the pleasure of speaking to Dr. Joy Spence, the industry's first female Master Blender. Dr. Spence, or "Auntie Joy " as her Appleton colleagues refer to her, tells us about how her love of science and chemistry landed her at Appleton Estate and her ongoing pursuit of the perfect blend. Listen now!
Where America has been, so has American whiskey. Even our Founding Father George Washington ran one of the largest whiskey distilleries in the early years of the nation at Mount Vernon. Steve Bashore, Miller, Distiller and Historian at Mount Vernon Distillery, helps us close out Bourbon Heritage Month to discuss the beginnings of whiskey distilling in America, and its lasting impact on our country. That and more on the Spirited Advocate Podcast, listen now!
It's only appropriate that a bourbon behemoth would join our podcast to kick off National Bourbon Heritage Month in celebration of America's native spirit. Few rival Bill Samuels Jr., former CEO and current Chairman Emeritus of Maker's Mark Bourbon, in life experience and industry knowledge. From growing up in Bardstown, KY next-door to other American whiskey legends, to his short-lived career as a rocket scientist, to continuing his parents' legacy at Maker's Mark, Bill is bursting with stories -- and he's not too shy to share them. Listen now!
Embarking on a new career is always demanding, but starting a role as the president of one of the largest spirits companies in the world…and during a pandemic? Now, that's another story. Debra Crew, President of Diageo North America, joins the podcast this week and discusses her year at the helm of Diageo North America, her strategic goals and what's in store for the future. Listen now!
In this episode, Chris is joined by the multi-talented Ivy Mix, co-owner and head bartender of Leyenda in Brooklyn, NY. Recognized as one of the best bartenders in the country, Ivy's impact on our industry goes well beyond the bar as the co-founder of Speed Rack and advisory board member of Independent Restaurant Coalition. Chris and Ivy tackle some of the most relevant issues facing the hospitality industry today and emphasize the importance of being politically active on issues that matter to you and your business. Listen now!
On this week's episode, Joshua Hammond of Buster's Liquors & Wines joins the show to provide a retailer perspective on some of the biggest issues facing the spirits industry today. This Memphis-based, family-run retailer offers insights on consumer trends and the benefits of the three-tier-system, all while emphasizing the importance of responsibility. Joshua is a perfect example of how leading with responsibility is not only the right thing to do but is also a great business decision. Listen now!
“Why be normal?” Asks this week's Spirited Advocate podcast guest Doug Hall of Brain Brew Custom Whiskey and Eureka! Ranch. Researcher, engineer, innovator, whiskey blender and much more, Doug regales us on how he moved from chemical engineering to the world of whiskey, bridging the pre-prohibition history of distilling in Cincinnati, OH with modern day innovation. Listen now!
This week's guest joins us from a distillery 300 years in the making. On this edu-taining episode, Meredith Meyer Grelli, co-owner of Wigle Whiskey and co-founder of the Whiskey Rebellion Trail, gives listeners a fascinating lesson on the history of American Whiskey. From a brawl with a tax collector to a pardon from George Washington himself, Philip Wigle, Wigle Whiskey's namesake, embodies the resilient spirit and history of American Whiskey. Listen now!
Spirits Canada, our neighbor to the north, has dealt with many of the same trials and tribulations as we have state-side over the past year due to the pandemic. CEO and President of Spirits Canada Jan Westcott compares experiences with Christine LoCascio, Chief of Public Policy at DISCUS on this week's episode. The two discuss the evolution of Canadian marketplace in terms of RTDs, Cocktails-to-Go, and other changes to the hospitality industry over the past year. How do our two systems differ and how are they the same? This and more on the Spirited Advocate Podcast.
With 40 years of experience under his belt, Eddie Russell knows a thing or two about bourbon, but is still jokingly referred to as the “new guy.” As the son of legendary Master Distiller Jimmy Russell, and the third generation Russell to work at the Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, Russell has an unmatched pedigree in American Whiskey. On this week's episode, Chris and Eddie discuss the evolution of Wild Turkey, his partnership with Matthew McConaughey on Long Branch Bourbon, and what we can expect to see from future generations at Wild Turkey. Don't miss Eddie Russell on the Spirited Advocate Podcast.
What is a "control state" and how do the laws relating to distilled spirits in these states differ from other states? New National Alcohol Beverage Control Association, Chairman Gregg Mineo shares his insights and how important it is to promote public health and responsibility in this space. With more than 40 years in the industry, Gregg knows a thing or two about distilled spirits. From his time at Seagrams to how we navigate the new normal, he covers it all on this week's Spirited Advocate Podcast. Gregg also serves as director of the Maine Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations.
This week, we welcome guest host Christine LoCascio, chief of public policy for DISCUS and special guest Sean Kennedy, executive vice president of public affairs for the National Restaurant Association. Sean talks about the devastating impact the pandemic has had on the restaurant industry and how the National Restaurant Association is helping to combat those unforeseen challenges. Christine and Sean also discuss the advantageous partnership between the two organizations on issues like cocktails to-go and their combined efforts to put an end to tariffs on distilled spirits.
Dynamic duo Connie Baker and Carey Shanks co-founded Marble Distilling Co. with the motto of "Drink Sustainably." Now, the happily married couple is sharing how they live out that motto by reducing their carbon footprint, sourcing locally and creating the same great products without a great big impact on the environment. From the economic benefits of environmentally friendly policies, to getting involved in public policy debates and building an experience for consumers, Connie and Carey bring a lot of fun to these topics and more.
With decades of experience in the industry, Dan Leese, CEO of DISCUS Member company Hotaling & Co. discusses the most pressing issues affecting the spirits industry. How will COVID-19 adaptations like ready-to-drink cocktails, direct-to-consumer shipping and cocktails-to-go evolve as we enter the new normal? And where do the brands in Hotaling's portfolio fit into the equation? All this and more in this week's episode of the Spirited Advocate podcast!
With 14 years at Maker's Mark under her belt, Jane Bowie knows a thing or two about crafting a timeless bourbon and an iconic brand. Jane, director of innovation for Maker’s Mark and a Kentucky native, talks about the depth of possibilities for bourbon, how the iconic red wax drip on Maker's Mark bottles came to be (hint- think cognac) and her experience in a male-dominated industry. How did Maker's Mark go from the scrappy new kid on the block selling one drink at a time, to the iconic brand we know and love today? Find out on this week's episode of the Spirited Advocate.
Whiskey educator Tracie Franklin is on a mission to change the face of whiskey by adding her voice and showing how inclusive the whiskey industry can be. Her enthusiasm is contagious as she recalls her time in theater to her ambassadorship for Glenfiddich to becoming the first head distiller apprentice chosen for the Nearest and Jack Advancement Initiative. Tracie discusses the barriers to entry into the whiskey world and how we can move towards taking exclusivity out of the industry. Actor, soon-to-be head distiller, teacher, advocate and so much more, we’re so thrilled to share this conversation with Tra
Two of the three "Brough Brothers" discuss what it's like to create the first Black-owned bourbon brand in Kentucky, giving back to their community and making their mark in history among other Louisville greats like Muhammad Ali. From making a smooth bourbon loved by all drinkers to dealing with the challenges of starting a business amid a global pandemic, Victor and Chris Yarborough speak to their experiences charting their own path in the distilled spirits industry. All that and more on this episode of the Spirited Advocate Podcast.
As owner of the only Black-owned distillery in Delaware, Ron Gomes is redefining the spirits industry and making great drinks along the way. His path to craft distiller is unlike any other and his background in science makes for an interesting perspective on how spirits should be made. Gomes speaks to the challenges he’s faced in starting Painted Stave Distillery to remaining viable during the pandemic, noting that part of surviving as a small business is always remaining nimble.
John Ralph, CEO and founder of Intrepid Spirits, got his start in the spirits industry nearly 20 years ago and has worked in Ireland, China and now the U.S. From reviving old brands to building new ones, John covers his "digital first" approach during COVID times and what shifts in the market we can expect to see even after the end of the pandemic. From comparing different markets to describing his favorite bar, he and host Chris Swonger dive into all things spirits on this episode.
With more than 20 years of experience in the retail industry, Mat Dismore, managing partner of Wilbur's Total Beverage in Fort Collins, Colorado, joins the Spirited Advocate podcast to discuss how COVID flipped retail operations upside down, what changes he has seen in consumer habits and how to bring brands to life through cultivating relationships. Dismore also speaks to operating as a responsible alcohol retailer in a college town and maintaining those guardrails with his expansion into home delivery.
With more than 20 years of experience in the retail industry, Mat Dismore, managing partner of Wilbur's Total Beverage in Fort Collins, Colorado, joins the Spirited Advocate podcast to discuss how COVID flipped retail operations upside down, what changes he has seen in consumer habits and how to bring brands to life through cultivating relationships. Dismore also speaks to operating as a responsible alcohol retailer in a college town and maintaining those guardrails with his expansion into home delivery.
Nick Buzzell, CEO and founder of Spirits Network, discusses how he came up with the idea for a shoppable entertainment platform specifically related to distilled spirits. With original series, mini-documentaries, and cocktail how-to videos, Spirits Network has a broad range of content for spirits enthusiast and novices alike. The platform is expanding the world of spirits into the homes of consumers and helping brands reach more people. All that and more on this week's Spirited Advocate Podcast.
Nick Buzzell, CEO and founder of Spirits Network, discusses how he came up with the idea for a shoppable entertainment platform specifically related to distilled spirits. With original series, mini-documentaries, and cocktail how-to videos, Spirits Network has a broad range of content for spirits enthusiast and novices alike. The platform is expanding the world of spirits into the homes of consumers and helping brands reach more people. All that and more on this week's Spirited Advocate Podcast.
CEO of Pernod Ricard North America, Ann Mukherjee, joins the Spirited Advocate Podcast to discuss the many ventures the company is undertaking and how her leadership style is changing the game. From focusing on “Return on Responsibility” in addition to “Return on Investment,” to her personal drive to uphold high standards in the spirits industry, Mukherjee holds nothing back. She also covers finding better balance on the diversity front, Black Lives Matter and how cocktails can offer connection despite physical distancing.
CEO of Pernod Ricard North America, Ann Mukherjee, joins the Spirited Advocate Podcast to discuss the many ventures the company is undertaking and how her leadership style is changing the game. From focusing on “Return on Responsibility” in addition to “Return on Investment,” to her personal drive to uphold high standards in the spirits industry, Mukherjee holds nothing back. She also covers finding better balance on the diversity front, Black Lives Matter and how cocktails can offer connection despite physical distancing.
With more than 30 years of high-level government experience and nearly two decades of work with the Distilled Spirits Council, the Alpine Group's Rhod Shaw dives into the election outcomes and what that means for the spirits industry moving forward. He covers why this election was unlike any others, and what's next for the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act, tariffs and cannabis legalization.
With more than 30 years of high-level government experience and nearly two decades of work with the Distilled Spirits Council, the Alpine Group's Rhod Shaw dives into the election outcomes and what that means for the spirits industry moving forward. He covers why this election was unlike any others, and what's next for the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act, tariffs and cannabis legalization.
David Jabour, co-owner of Twin Liquors stores in Texas with his sister Margaret Jabour, talks about transforming a single, 700 square foot store into a retail empire he now operates with nearly 100 stores across the lone star state. He offers fresh perspective on brand building with a community focus coupled with expansion into the e-commerce space. From giving back to the community to upholding high standards of responsibility, Jabour covers all aspects of running a successful retail operation in the distilled spirits industry.
David Jabour, co-owner of Twin Liquors stores in Texas with his sister Margaret Jabour, talks about transforming a single, 700 square foot store into a retail empire he now operates with nearly 100 stores across the lone star state. He offers fresh perspective on brand building with a community focus coupled with expansion into the e-commerce space. From giving back to the community to upholding high standards of responsibility, Jabour covers all aspects of running a successful retail operation in the distilled spirits industry.
Southern Glazer's John Wittig joins the Spirited Advocate Podcast to talk about their e-commerce platform, Proof. From ensuring retailers can quickly navigate the site and order customers exactly what they want to working to close the distribution gap, Wittig covers everything about operating in the digital marketplace. While the platform was put in place before the onset of COVID, Proof has grown drastically since the pandemic and helped the spirits industry thrive in the 21st century.
Southern Glazer's John Wittig joins the Spirited Advocate Podcast to talk about their e-commerce platform, Proof. From ensuring retailers can quickly navigate the site and order customers exactly what they want to working to close the distribution gap, Wittig covers everything about operating in the digital marketplace. While the platform was put in place before the onset of COVID, Proof has grown drastically since the pandemic and helped the spirits industry thrive in the 21st century.
Founder and CEO of American Revolution Vodka, Walter Kerpa, joins the Spirited Advocate Podcast to talk about what it means to be a veteran re-entering society and how important business opportunities, like those offered at Revolution Vodka, are to that effort. Kerpa also covers the serious issues plaguing the veteran community while delving into his family history and new plans for the future.
Founder and CEO of American Revolution Vodka, Walter Kerpa, joins the Spirited Advocate Podcast to talk about what it means to be a veteran re-entering society and how important business opportunities, like those offered at Revolution Vodka, are to that effort. Kerpa also covers the serious issues plaguing the veteran community while delving into his family history and new plans for the future.
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