Podcasts about distilling

I didn't realise Leslie was the person behind Matchbook Distilling until I had her brother, Andrew Merinoff, on the show (Episode #154, here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3Qgz2nPJNYyrVu4MnHoLfd?si=Ypn5UXXlTMii5zNOD_1KrQ )I was aware of Matchbook, you see, because as well as making their own mindboggling spirits, Matchbook are spoken of reverently by the very best bars in New York, such as Death & Co., Eleven Madison Park, Shinji's (RIP), Schmuck, and more, for the custom distillates they will co-create with such bars to form the basis of truly unique cocktails.   So when I learned Leslie was the powerhouse behind this all I badly wanted to have her on the show - we just had to wait a couple of months, as she was 8 months pregnant (and still working!) when I first contacted her, not long after I had had  Andrew on. The day finally came, and the conversation was amazing. She's had a wild route into this industry, from being born into American liquor royalty on both sides of her family, to home brewing in high school and college, immersing herself in the world of fruits and grains and vegetables, founding Matchbook, being awarded Distiller of the Year (2025) - and even becoming an innkeeper. If you're even mildly interested by distilling, this is the episode for you. Leslie on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thebookofbam/Matchbook on IG: https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://www.instagram.com/p/DZOIkukumxH/&ved=2ahUKEwi7muvuzLyVAxXEF2IAHU9gNKoQFnoECB4QAQ&usg=AOvVaw22tx7IOUyWGccq-Kw8L6ufBuy Matchbook products: https://mdcdropshop.com/collections/allStay at the Lin Inn: https://linbeachhouse.com/ (Get in touch with Duff!Podcast business enquiries:  consulting@liquidsolutions.org (PR friends: we're only interested in having your client on if they can talk for a couple of hours about OTHER things besides their prepared speaking points or their new thing, whatever that is. They need to be able to hang. Oh, plus we don't edit, we won't supply prepared or sample questions, nor listener or “reach” stats, either, and no, you can't sit in on the interview (or lurk on the Zoom.)  And our AI automatically deletes pitch emails that are clearly written using AI. Retain Philip's consulting firm, Liquid Solutions, specialised in on-trade engagement & education, liquor brand creation and repositioning: philip@liquidsolutions.orgPhilip on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philipsduff/ Philip on Facebook: Philip Duff Philip on X/Twitter: Philip Duff (@philipduff) / Twitter Philip on LinkedIn: linkedin.com Old Duff Genever on Instagram: Old Duff Genever (@oldduffgenever) • Instagram photos and videos Old Duff Genever on Faceboo...

Corowa Distilling Co is built on bold decisions, big flavour and the kind of vision you only get from owner Dean Druce.In this episode, Dean shares how he transformed an abandoned flour mill into a thriving distillery, why community sits at the heart of Corowa, and what it really takes to craft whisky with character. A warm, honest, high‑energy conversation with the man behind one of Australia's most distinctive regional distilleries.

GUEST: Jason Fruits (Old 55 Distillery CEO & Co-Founder) Some distillers inherit tradition. Others build their own path from the ground up. In this episode, Drew Hannush sits down with Old 55 Distillery co-founder and distiller Jason Fruits to explore how a family grain business became one of America's most distinctive estate distilleries. From growing the grain to questioning nearly every accepted practice in whiskey making, Jason shares why he believes there are better ways to craft exceptional bourbon—and why being in the middle of Indiana corn country may be his greatest advantage. In This Episode Why "farm-to-glass" changes everything The business behind an estate distillery Choosing a hybrid still over convention Distilling on grain instead of beer Why Jason takes such a narrow hearts cut Can cool aging outperform Kentucky heat? The surprising role of enzymes Building a 100% sweet corn bourbon Why he calls his whiskey "Ferraris, not Fords" How family legacy shaped Old 55 SHOW NOTES: whiskeylore.org/interviews JOIN THE SPEAKEASY: patreon.com/whiskeylore

Send us Fan MailWe sit down with Greg from Hayner Distilling to trace a 150-year Ohio whiskey legacy from 1866 through Prohibition to a modern revival built on blending, transparency, and great barrels. We also dig into what makes a memorable tasting-room experience and why limited releases and community events can pull people off the shelf and into the story. • Hayner Distilling history from 1866 to Prohibition to a 2020 relaunch • Rebuilding the brand by reverse-engineering a 1904 bottle sample • Why Hayner uses Bardstown Bourbon Company for contract distilling • Blending philosophy vs single barrels, chasing complexity over “smooth” • Rye and bourbon combinations that win blind tastings • Barrel proof experience with fill-your-own bottles from the barrel • Expansion plans for a larger 1910s to 1920s themed space • Troy, Ohio stops to pair with a distillery trip • Craft whiskey marketing realities, crowded shelves, and earning the second bottle • Event talk: Bourbon and Cigars at Mother Stewart's plus an exclusive Hayner bottle www.scotchybourbonboys.com for all things Scotchy Bourbon Boys. And then also we're on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, X make sure, and then also Apple iHeart and Spotify, whether you listen to us or you watch us, make sure that you leave us good feedback. Become a member on YouTube or even on Facebook. But either way, also if you're on Apple, please leave us a good review. Five-star reviews are great, they get us better algorithm and searches. And then remember, good bourbon equals good times and good friends. Make sure you drink responsibly, don't drink and drive, and be like us. Live your life uncut and unfiltered. And AI is going to take us out. A forgotten Ohio whiskey giant is back and it's not pretending the old world never changed. We're joined by Greg from Hayner Distilling in Troy, Ohio to unpack how a brand founded in 1866 became the largest distiller in the state, shut down with Prohibition, and then re-emerged in 2020 with a very modern playbook: transparency, barrel selection, and serious whiskey blending.We get into the nuts and bolts of the revival, including how Hayner took a 1904 bottle sample to Bardstown Bourbon Company to help reverse-engineer an original-style mash bill, then built today's lineup while their own barrels come of age. If you care about craft whiskey, sourced bourbon done right, MGP rye, and what separates a smart blend from a random mix, you'll love the way Greg talks about complexity, mouthfeel, and why blends often beat single barrels in blind tastings.Then we shift from liquid to experience. We talk distillery visits, Hayner's barrel proof “fill-your-own” setup, and the big expansion into a larger 1910s to 1920s themed tasting space with a whiskey thieving room and a dedicated history area. We also preview the Bourbon and Cigars event at Mother Stewart's and the exclusive Hayner bottle tied to it, plus why limited releases and community-driven events still matter in a crowded bourbon market.If you're into Ohio bourbon, American whiskey history, and the future of blending culture, hit play. Subscribe, share this with a whiskey friend, and leave us a five-star review so more people can find the show. If You Have Gohsts voice over Whiskey ThiefSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.comThe Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world    https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Pennsylvania was once the heart of American rye whiskey, and Iron City Distilling is bringing that history back to life.This week, we sit down with President Peter Katz and Distiller Austin Keaton to talk about what makes their whiskey different. From Pennsylvania-grown rye and a rare three-chamber still to steam-heated aging and some seriously unique barrel finishes, they're not afraid to do things their own way.We also get into the story behind the distillery, why they focus so much on pre-Prohibition whiskey-making, what's coming next, and of course… we taste some great whiskey along the way.If you enjoy learning the stories behind the bottle—or you're just looking for your next great pour—you won't want to miss this one.

In this episode of Distilling the West, Dan and Dave sit down with Anna Mantheakis of Bubble Cap Consulting for a conversation packed with insight, experience, and a truly unique perspective on spirits. Anna shares her background in the industry, what led her to consulting, and how Bubble Cap helps distilleries navigate the many moving parts of building and growing a successful brand.A major part of the conversation explores Anna's auditory/olfactory synesthesia and how it shapes the way she experiences aroma, flavor, and tasting. She explains how sound and smell connect for her, giving her a distinctive way of evaluating spirits and understanding sensory details that many people might miss.From production and operations to business strategy and the art of tasting, this episode offers a fascinating look behind the scenes of the spirits industry through the lens of someone who experiences it in a remarkable way.

Distilling potatoes into vodka is a long way from coming to grips with the cold of an Antarctic winter.

GUEST: John Pawluk (Twisted Cow Distillery Founder and Distiller) Some distillers master tradition. Others ask why the tradition exists in the first place. In this episode, Drew Hannush sits down with Twisted Cow founder and distiller John Pawluk, whose gift of curiosity has led him to challenge long-held assumptions about fermentation, copper, grain, barrel aging, and flavor development. There is plenty of discussion around one of John's favorite tools for stretching his abilities-the iStill. Enjoy this return to long-form discussions about why and how whiskey is made. It's a fascinating look inside the mind of a whiskey maker who refuses to accept "because that's how it's always been done." In This Episode Why curiosity drives better whiskey Building flavor before the barrel Rethinking copper's role The science of fermentation Why grain origin matters Stone mills versus hammer mills Barrel proof and flavor evolution Learning from tradition, not following it Experimenting with blue corn and heirloom grains Creating a distillery built for discovery TRANSCRIPTS: whiskeylore.org/interviews JOIN THE SPEAKEASY: patreon.com/whiskeylore

In this episode of Distilling the West, Dan and Dave sit down with Tanya Slye and Kimberlee Weaver of Jettywave Distillery in beautiful Half Moon Bay, California.They talk about what makes Half Moon Bay such a special coastal destination, the inspiration behind Jettywave, and the creativity that goes into making such unique spirits by the ocean. Tanya and Kimberlee share the story of the distillery, their approach to flavor, and what sets their lineup apart.Dan and Dave taste through a great selection of Jettywave spirits, including their bourbon, single malt whiskey, gin, and barrel aged gin. From bold whiskey character to coastal botanical notes, this tasting shows off the range and personality of Jettywave Distillery.Pour a glass and transport yourself to beautiful coastal California to talk about craft spirits and the people behind Half Moon Bay's best craft distillery. Cheers!

This week on Happy Hour, Keith and Jenny are live from Iowa Distilling Company, talking World Cup watch parties, Jenny's first-pitch saga, and her birthday. Presented by Iowa Distilling Company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes all it takes is one sip. It happened to the founders of Woodfolk Cider, Martha Lowry and Alistair Whitehead, and it can happen to YOU! What began as a shared love of food, drink, and hospitality eventually led them to plant orchards, build a cidery, and welcome visitors to their 87-acre farm in Ontario, Canada. Today, their orchard-based cidery sits among forests, rivers, rolling hills, and rows of young cider apple trees and the open invitation to expand your universe one glass at a time. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 The Cider Discovery Moment 00:52 Meet Woodfolk Cider 02:23 French Cider Tour Update 04:49 Secret Tap at Four Phantoms 07:53 eCiderNews Roundup 10:33 Welcome to Woodfolk's Orchard 12:18 The Farm and Family Origins 13:03 From Music and Brewing to Cider 15:09 Distilling, Spirits and Ontario Taxes 17:38 Building the Tasting Room Experience 18:17 The Woodfolk Cider Lineup 19:19 Introducing Tannic Cider to New Drinkers 21:17 The LCBO Challenge for Farm Cideries 24:14 Pressing Apples and Growing Orchards 26:51 Perry Pears, Climate and Terroir 29:22 Harvest-Based Fermentation 29:49 Barrel Aging and Neutral Oak 30:57 Learning From Happy Accidents 32:00 Yeast Choices and Orchard Diversity 33:48 Tasting Meadowland 34:54 Harvest Dates and Labeling Rules 36:23 Cider, Stewardship and Community 40:06 Modern Love Cider 40:39 Copper Moon and the Art of Blending 43:54 Food Pairings and the "Aha" Moment 46:33 Looking Five Years Ahead 48:17 Final Thoughts on Woodfolk Cider 49:55 French Cider Tour Reminder 51:04 Closing Theme Song Contact info for Woodfolk Cider Website: woodfolkcider.com Located near Orillia, Ontario, approximately 90 minutes northwest of Toronto. Mentions in this Cider Chat Totally Cider Tours eCiderNews French Cider Tour 2026 Cider Going Up Patreon Find the full show notes for Episode 507 at CiderChat.com Direct Link: https://ciderchat.com/podcast/507-woodfolk-cider-ontario/ Listen wherever you get your podcasts and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss what's coming next in Ciderville. Prefer to watch? Find Cider Chat on YouTube for more cider stories, orchard adventures, and global cider culture.

Artist, operator, bartender, mixologist, distiller, creator... Ektoras Binikos wears a lot of hats. That said, he wears them under the unifying umbrella of hospitality.Not long after arriving in NYC from Greece, he started making a name for himself. By 2019, Ektoras was ready to open the doors to his own bar, Sugar Monk. He and his team overcame significant challenges, including navigating shutdowns. Now, in June of 2026, Sugar Monk is celebrating its seven-year anniversary.Ektoras opened Bitter Monk in 2024, and has tapped into his family's history of distilling through the creation of Atheras Spirits. One of the threads tying his journey together is the effective balancing of creativity with ethos, sensibilities, and business.Cheers!Notes⁠⁠Ektoras Binikos IG⁠Sugar Monk IGBitter Monk IGAtheras Spirits IGSugar Monk websiteBitter Monk websiteAtheras Spirits website⁠⁠Bar Hacks IG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KRG Hospitality IG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KRG Hospitality website

Send us Fan MailMatthieu Sabbagh is one of the few mobile distillers in the world, traveling directly to Burgundy's most celebrated vineyards and producers to distill Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes at their source. The result is an extraordinary portfolio of spirits—including SABS Gin, Marc de Bourgogne, and Fine de Bourgogne—that have earned placements in some of France's top wine bars and Michelin-starred restaurants and are now making waves in the United States.Check out the website: www.drinkingonthejob.com for great past episodes. Everyone from Iron Chefs, winemakers, journalist and more. 

It is common Christian fodder to discuss grace in the role of our salvation. But what about grace for everyday living? What does that look like? Mark and I think through several different angles of grace: divine-enablement? Relational co-dependency? Death to the self (what does that look like)? What about grace and pride? By accepting God's grace does one just become a puppet on a divine string? It may be helpful to think of grace as space, making space for the other. If we consider grace as divine enablement rather than solely unmerited favor we can press in even further into following Christ across our lives.

Retribution Distilling: Somerset Peat, Brewing Yeast, Direct-Fired Stills, and the Future of English WhiskyShow Notes: www.whiskeyinmyweddingring.com/reviews/ep-240-retribution-distilling-co-with-richard-lock-show-notesRetribution DistillingWebsite: https://retributiondistilling.co.uk/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/retributiondistilling/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/retributiondistilling/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retribution-distilling/If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingringAs of December 2025, the $25/month bottle share club level is sold out!Join at the $5/month level for first shot at an open spot when a member retires and to keep receiving ad-free episodes via Patreon. 

This week on The Whiskey Trip Podcast, Big Chief rides into Golden, Colorado, to sit down with Jason Pelle, Head Distiller at State 38 Distilling. As a fellow veteran and former Navy Diver, Jason brings a story built on service, sacrifice, and a relentless pursuit of excellence—qualities that now find their way into every bottle that leaves the distillery.   On the first half of the show, the guys raise a glass of State 38 Straight Wheat Whiskey, where notes of honey, vanilla, and fresh baked bread create an inviting start to the ride. They then move to State 38 Bourbon Whiskey, delivering rich layers of caramel, toffee, baking spices, and oak that showcase the heart of Colorado craft whiskey.   On the second half, the adventure continues with State 38 Straight Rye Whiskey, packed with black pepper, mint, and cinnamon spice. Then comes the moment listeners won't want to miss as Big Chief steps out onto the ledge and dives into State 38 Peat Smoked Whisky. What begins with campfire smoke unfolds into rich malt, dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a newfound appreciation for a style of whiskey that often divides drinkers.   Throughout the conversation, Jason shares his passion for the craft, the lessons learned through military service, and the pride that comes from creating spirits that bring people together around a shared story and a good pour.   This episode is a reminder that great whiskey is more than grain and barrels—it's about the people behind it, the journeys they've traveled, and the legacy they leave in every glass.   Pour yourself a dram, settle in, and Take the Ride.

Steve, Miss Beka Sue, Justine, Matt M. & Lenny talk about the latest crazy offering from Tamworth. TBD music by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com).   Important Links: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theabvnetwork Our Events Page: bourbonpalooza.com Check us out at: abvnetwork.com. The ABV Barrel Shop: abvbarrelshop.com   Join the revolution by adding #ABVNetworkCrew to your profile on social media.

When Jimmy Carter legalized home brewing in the 1970s, it unleashed a wave of American innovation that changed the craft beer market forever. Now, there is an opportunity to do the same thing with distilled spirits. Matt Kibbe talks with Robert Alt, president of the Buckeye Institute, about a case making its way to the Supreme Court that would allow Americans to distill their own gin, rum, and whiskey at home, paving the way for a new movement of craft distillers to disrupt the liquor market and bring fresh ideas to a thirsty, thirsty public.

On this episode of Distilling the West, Dan and Dave sit down with Dave Smith, Head Distiller and Co-Owner of St. George Spirits out of Alameda, California. This interview is an incredible conversation about how intention is behind everything that is done at St. George. Dave talks about how sense memories drive the development and production of their exceptionally made craft spirits at St George. Dave has some of the most descriptive storytelling we have heard on the show that will transport you, and we're here for it!Dave brings every story to life, from the people behind the spirits to the details of the distilling process. It was truly enjoyable to hear him share his experiences, his passion, and the deep and rich stories behind St. George Spirits.Throughout the episode, Dan and Dave taste through Pear Brandy, Valley Gin, and St. George American Single Malt Whiskey, Lot 25. Each pour leads to a deeper conversation about sense memories, complex yet intentional flavor, striving for perfection, and the unique approach that has made St. George Spirits such an important name in American craft distilling.Join us for this memorable episode with one of the best American craft spirit distilleries in the industry. Cheers to St. George!

John Emerald Distilling Co (Opalika, AL) WF090 Let's cross the border, into the Central Time Zone, where we may or may not switch our clocks! Yup, that is how I roll sometimes. It's time to visit with Jimmy Sharp, co-founder of the John Emerald Distillery to talk about his journey from Montgomery to Scotland and back to the Alabama/Georgia border, where he brought American Single Malt to the area. We'll also talk about how he harvests his own sugarcane for his rum. Plus, there are travel tips, we'll taste several expressions, and talk about the distillery's Barrel Club and the source for some of those whiskeys. Also, if you're ready to start planning your distillery adventures for this summer, make sure to grab a copy of Whiskey Lore's Travel Guide to Experiencing American Whiskey - signed copies available for Father's Day at whiskeylore.org/shop (US only)

Send us Fan MailWe hang out with Dave Bob from Lexington Brewing & Distilling and get a guided walk through Town Branch, from the visitor center that feels like an Irish street to the barrels that shape everything. Along the way we taste through beers, bourbons and American single malts and end up stunned by a single barrel with raspberry, vanilla and butter notes we can't stop talking about. • what it feels like to arrive at Town Branch and start a tour • Pierce Lyons' Irish roots, yeast legacy and why it still matters • how Bourbonola went from Prohibition story to 12% RTD • why the brewery and distillery combo changes the tasting experience • beer highlights including Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale and vanilla barrel cream ale • the barrel thieving tour and why tasting from the barrel hits different • the core whiskey lineup from 90 proof bourbon to True Cask batches • Overproof 104 as a bartender-focused blend for cocktails at home • a live barrel pick on air and the single malt that steals the show • what we want to see next in Ohio distribution and upcoming releases make sure that you leave good feedback, become subscriber, member, top shelf on on uh YouTube Drink responsibly don't drink and drive You can learn a lot about bourbon from a label, but you learn a lot more when someone who lives in the rickhouse walks you through it. We sit down with Dave Bob from Lexington Brewing & Distilling and let him take us inside Town Branch, a true brewery-distillery that feels equal parts Kentucky Bourbon Trail stop and Irish whiskey hideaway. From the moment you step into the visitor center, the place is built for discovery and Dave explains why that “experience design” is just as intentional as what goes into the barrel.We dig into the Pierce Lyons story, the Irish roots behind Town Branch, and the yeast-driven mindset that shaped everything from their American single malt whiskey to their Kentucky straight bourbon. Then we go deep on Bourbonola: how a Prohibition-era idea became a modern 12% ready-to-drink bourbon cola, why the team built a custom cherry cola flavor to match their whiskey, and what makes it stand apart from the usual canned collabs.The night turns into a live barrel pick, tasting multiple single malt and bourbon samples on air. We talk True Cask (their cask strength bourbon batches), Overproof 104 for cocktails, the barrel thieving tour, and the rare moment when a single barrel stops the conversation cold with notes like raspberry, vanilla icing and butter. If you care about barrel picks, Lexington bourbon tours, American single malt, or finding the best value cask strength bourbon, this one is for you. Subscribe, share this with a whiskey friend, and leave a review with the barrel note you'd chase first.voice over Whiskey Thief If You Have Gohsts Support the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.comThe Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world    https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

It's a milestone episode for Distilling the West — Dan and Dave are celebrating their 100th episode with a very special guest: Mark Stell from Bird Creek Distillery.Mark was the very first interview on the show, so having him back for episode 100 makes this one extra meaningful. The guys sit down with Mark to talk about Bird Creek, the journey since that first conversation, and the important connections he makes with the farmers that grow the rare, heirloom, and ancient varieties of barley he uses to make world class American Single Malt.Throughout the episode, Dan and Dave taste through five different Bird Creek offerings, exploring the flavors, stories, and craftsmanship behind each varietal. It's a full-circle moment packed with whiskey, laughs, stories, and a look at what makes Bird Creek such a unique part of the Western spirits scene.A huge thank you to everyone who has followed along for the first 100 episodes — here's to many more! Check out the interview on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts and be sure to give us a like, follow, and subscribe. Cheers everybody!

We are reckoning with truths that are a bit uncomfortable. AI is not just a tool, but something people are relating to - personally. For kids and teens, we're finding that that can be extremely dangerous.In this episode, Shannon Peavey speaks with Tracy Pizzo Frey, a veteran technology leader including 11 years at Google where she oversaw Responsible AI for Google Cloud. As a consultant, she worked with Common Sense Media to develop a system for assessing the risks of large language models and AGI, with a particular focus on kids and teens.Tracy brings deep technical experience and knowledge of how technology shapes behavior. Drawing on lessons from social media and emerging research, she explores what feels different about AI.For young people who are still developing social and emotional skills, these interactions may have unique implications. AI systems are responsive and engaging, but they do not challenge users or help them navigate real-world complexity in the same way humans do. Over time, that difference may influence how teens build coping skills, relationships, and a sense of self.Through her work with Common Sense Media, Tracy has evaluated leading AI systems and reached some important conclusions. Today's models are not designed to serve as mental health companions for kids or teens, even though many young people are already engaging with them in ways that resemble emotional support.Tracy shares how these assessments were created, what they measure, and what they reveal about the current state of AI safety. She offers a grounded perspective on building & using these technologies responsibly, especially when younger users are already deeply involved..00:20 AI's effect on kids 02:07 Why harms are specific to kids & teens 04:50 AI is not a search engine07:27 Kids & teachers are often earliest adopters 08:06 Tech companies know more than they let on 09:15 Common Sense Media's risk assessment project09:57 Let's not repeat mistakes 11:24 Tracy's involvement13:11 Set your charter 14:50 Bring diverse, multi-disciplinary teams 16:25 Why psychological safety is important 17:38 Distilling masses of information into risk assessments18:48 Why hype matters20:30 How the team looked at social media 23:20 Early assessment of potential harms25:10 Character.ai as precursor to interaction with LLMs26:00 ‘Everything in the whole wide world'27:13 Why kids are different32:18 The danger of so-called frictionless relationships33:02 The best way to test36:50 Some surprising findings39:08 How tech can reshape a worldview41:02 There are good people, but - business models43:30 Know the tradeoffs45:07 The fact-to-fiction scale46:30 Some positivity48:00 Books, lawsuits, and resources

Steve and Jeremy talk to Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame Inductee Jim Rutledge. The Bourbon Show music (Whiskey on the Mississippi) is by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com).   Important Links: YouTube: https://bit.ly/3kAJZQz Our Club: https://www.abvnetwork.com/club Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theabvnetwork Check us out at: abvnetwork.com. Join the revolution by adding #ABVNetworkCrew to your profile on social media.

Send us Fan MailWe set up inside High Bank's barrel-filled war room and taste Whiskey War through a full brunch pairing that changes what we smell, taste, and remember. We also break down how blending, proof, and finishing choices shape a bottle, plus why the restaurant experience matters as much as the whiskey.• quick intros with Tony, Dylan, James, and chef Eric at the Grandview location• why a distillery restaurant and great cocktails drive repeat visits• the three High Bank locations and how each vibe stays unique• the speakeasy trend as an “escape” experience for whiskey fans• how Whiskey War is blended for taste, affordability, and availability• why blending has shifted from hiding flaws to building quality• pairing 88 proof Whiskey War with burrata, peach jam, and balsamic• stepping up to barrel proof with chorizo rangoons and spicy ranch• what double oaking changes and why it works with berry pancakes• pairing hot honey chicken biscuits with Double Double releases• how Amburana finishing works, why it moves fast, and how they control it• favorite pairings and what we'd want to try nextYou can find us at uh sealbox.com or website, highbankdistillery.com.Brunch food that actually makes whiskey taste different is rare, and we build a full lineup to prove it from the barrel house at High Bank Distillery in Columbus, Ohio. Sitting in their “war room” surrounded by barrels, we talk with the team behind Whiskey War and walk through how a distillery can turn tasting into a real experience, not just a drink at the bar.We dig into what makes Whiskey War work as a modern blend, why consistency and affordability matter, and how today's whiskey market is changing what's possible at the same price point. Then we get hands-on with proof and process: regular Whiskey War versus barrel proof, what double oaked releases add, and why “double double” style expressions keep winning attention. Along the way we hit the bigger debates that whiskey fans love, including blending for quality, the rise of finished whiskey, and how a brand can experiment without losing its core profile.The food pairing is the centerpiece: burrata with peach jam and balsamic, chorizo rangoons with spice, berry pancakes that unlock vanilla and syrup notes in double oaked whiskey, and a hot honey chicken biscuit that shows how oak and proof can mellow heat while amplifying depth. We also talk speakeasy culture, High Bank's three locations (Grandview, Gahanna, Westerville), and the kind of hospitality that keeps people coming back.If you love whiskey tasting, bourbon blending, barrel proof releases, double oaked whiskey, and smart whiskey and food pairing ideas, hit play. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs a new Columbus distillery stop, and leave a review with the best whiskey pairing you've ever had.voice over Whiskey Thief If You Have Gohsts Support the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.comThe Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world    https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Where eco-friendly objectives, a philosophy that generates bottles of magic, and tastes/flavours that are unique... what do you have? Holocene Distilling Project is actually not far off the Trans-Canada Highway near Cobble Hill, but under towering evergreens it feels a world away. Go to their website and understand the journey and what they offer and you will be as entranced as I have been. It took over a year to set up the visit, but you can be sure though it is my first it won't be my last.

A decade in the making. Today on Bourbon Lens, we sit down with John Waddell, Master Taster at Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co., to discuss the most significant release in the distillery's modern history: The Henry Kraver Reserve 10-Year Bourbon.Since reviving the Peerless legacy in 2013, the Taylor family has vowed to never source a drop of whiskey. This 10-year release is the liquid proof of that patience. John walks us through the "Sweet Mash" process that defines the Peerless profile and explains why crafting a 10-year expression requires a completely different approach to batching and quality control. From the "wild" palate of burnt brownies and mocha to the nostalgic tobacco-heavy nose, we break down why this bottle is already being called a contender for Bourbon of the Year.In this episode, we discuss:The 10-Year Evolution: The significance of Peerless's first official age-statement release.Sweet Mash Mastery: How fresh mash (versus sour mash) creates a cleaner, more vibrant 117.6 proof spirit.The Art of the Batch: John Waddell shares the challenges of pairing prominent 10-year-old barrels.History Reborn: Paying homage to founder Henry Kraver and the DSP-KY-50 heritage.The "Cult" of Peerless: Why the distillery's focus on "quality over quantity" has built one of the most loyal followings in the industry.The Visitor Experience: Why their downtown Louisville distillery is a must-visit on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.ChaptersIntroduction and WelcomePeerless Distillery Overview10-Year Bourbon ReleaseCrafting and Tasting ProcessChallenges and AchievementsFuture Plans and InnovationsClosing Remarks

Check out The Stillhouse Spring menu. It does not disappoint

In this episode, we sit down with Justin Hartman from Hartman's Distilling in Buffalo, NY to talk about what's next for one of the area's local distilleries.Justin shares insight into upcoming releases, events, parties, and how Hartman's continues to grow within the Buffalo whiskey scene. We also talk about the evolution from sourced whiskey to their own distillate, including how Hartman's own juice has been tasting compared to some of the previous sourced releases.It's a great behind-the-scenes conversation about building a local distillery, developing whiskey over time, and continuing to create experiences for the Buffalo community.Pour yourself something good and enjoy the episode.Topics we cover:Upcoming Hartman's releasesEvents and parties at Hartman's DistillingSourced whiskey vs. Hartman's own distillateHow their whiskey profile is evolvingThe Buffalo craft spirits sceneWhat's next for Hartman's DistillingFollow Hartman's Distilling:https://www.instagram.com/hartmans_distilling/Follow Buffalo Happy Hour:https://www.instagram.com/officialbuffalohappyhour/Follow Neat Notes: https://www.instagram.com/neatnotesapp/#HartmansDistilling #BuffaloNY #BuffaloWhiskey #WhiskeyPodcast #BourbonPodcast #CraftDistillery #BuffaloHappyHour #WhiskeyTubeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Today's episode is our fisrt ever podcast recorded in front of a live audience. We're at Seven Three Distillery and interviewing their head distiller, Luka Cutura..

In this episode of Whiskey Rocks, we sit down with Nicolas Lee of Glacier Distilling Company in Montana to talk about building a craft distillery near Glacier National Park and why American single malt whiskey is on the rise.We dive into their origin story, what makes Montana whiskey different, and break down their Logan Pass American Single Malt with music-inspired tasting notes.If you've ever wondered what American single malt is…or if a whiskey can actually taste like Montana…this one's for you.

* Listen on Spotify* Listen on Apple* Listen on Youtube* Listen on Pocketcasts* Book Launch checklist: https://BookHip.com/BDSWRRT* Millionaire Author Mastermind Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/millionaireauthormastermind/* http://hapitalist.com/In this episode of The Six Figure Author Experiment, Russell and Lee sit down with romance author Celeste Barclay (also writing as Sabine Barclay), and things immediately go off the rails—in the best way possible.It opens with a now-legendary story: Celeste dictating an entire spicy scene… in a grocery store. Produce section? Fine. Dairy aisle? Escalating. By checkout, we've hit violence, catharsis, and 3,000 words. It's chaotic, hilarious, and quietly profound. Because underneath the absurdity is a powerful truth: there are no rules when it comes to getting the words out.But the real engine of this episode isn't just process. It's understanding why readers buy—and why they come back.Celeste brings a rare combination of expertise: economics, teaching, and political marketing. She breaks down how authors can think like behavioral scientists, not just storytellers. The conversation moves from demographics to psychographics, from tropes to emotional triggers, from “what is this book about?” to “what does this book do to someone?”And then, like a quiet reveal in the middle of a magic act, Russell introduces the idea of the “magic trick”.Every author has one.The thing they do again and again that makes readers feel something specific.Once you see it, everything changes. Your writing sharpens. Your marketing simplifies. Your brand locks into place like a key turning in a door.The episode weaves between craft and business like a double helix: Emotion drives story. Emotion drives marketing. And consistency of emotion builds a career.By the end, what starts as a conversation about dictation turns into something much bigger: a framework for building a body of work that readers trust, return to, and recommend without hesitation.Topics Covered:* The infamous “grocery store dictation” story and writing without constraints* Using dictation to dramatically increase output (3,000 words in an hour)* Writing linearly vs. “pantser” discovery writing* Why removing friction in your process matters more than perfection* Celeste's background: economics, teaching, and political marketing* Understanding consumer behavior in publishing* Macro vs. micro psychology of buyers and readers* The difference between demographics and psychographics* How to identify what readers actually want (not just what they say they want)* The importance of emotional outcomes in genre fiction* Asking the key question: What emotions are readers craving?* “Heartbeat moments” and emotional payoff in romance* Why readers return for emotional catharsis, not just plot* How to translate emotional expectations into marketing copy and visuals* Tropes as shopping signals and silent calls to action* Why trope cards outperform generic marketing graphics* Marketing as nonfiction writing (clear, factual, persuasive)* The challenge of writing marketing copy before the book exists* Loglines, positioning, and communicating value quickly* The concept of the author “magic trick”* Examples of magic tricks across authors and genres* How your magic trick becomes your brand promise* Why consistency matters more than novelty for long-term success* When breaking your brand promise causes reader backlash* Pen names and when to separate your brand* Emotional memory as the core driver of repeat readership* Branding vs. marketing: why branding reduces long-term effort* Building a signature series as a marketing engine* How each new book sells the previous ones* Simple vs. easy: why success frameworks are deceptively hard* Distilling your brand into a single guiding sentence* Using reader reviews to identify your brand promise* The “potato theory” of creativity (one core idea, many outputs)* Why clarity of brand creates freedom, not limitation* Final truth: readers don't just buy books—they buy predictable emotional experiences This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

The Guys discuss their recent visit to Barrel House in Lexington. Joined by their friends from Bonding Over Bourbon, they discuss the day they spent there and sample through an array of different expressions they brought back from the trip. Then wrap things up with a surprise announcement.

Host Richie Tevlin and Co-Host Evan Blum talk with Breeze Galindo, founder and head brewer of MiLuna Brewing Company, an upcoming Brooklyn-based brewery rooted in her Mexican heritage and a commitment to diversity and inclusion in craft beer. A former Director of Operations for the Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing and Distilling, which funds education and career advancement for BIPOC professionals in the industry, Breeze has become one of the most prominent advocates for representation in craft beer. *This marks Breeze's second appearance on the BrewedAt Podcast, making her the first ever repeat guest in the show's history.* BrewedAt's CBC Special Series, releasing a new episode every day from April 27th through May 2nd, and again from May 5th through May 9th, in celebration of the 2026 Craft Brewers Conference in Philadelphia!   https://www.milunabrewing.com/ @MiLunaBrewing _____________________________________________ THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!: The Beer Accountant: https://www.paddymaccpa.com/brewerysolutions Patrick McDonald Email: pmcdonald@paddymaccpa.com 267-566-4077 - Licensed CPA Norris McLaughlin P.A. https://norrismclaughlin.com/ted-zeller Ted Zeller Email: tzeller@norris-law.com (484) 765-2220 - Liquor Attorney _______________________________________ Breeze's Past Appearances: ⁠1. May 22nd, 2024⁠   EPISODE NOTES: Mentioned Breweries Two Locals Brewing - Epi 27 - Philadelphia, PA Human Robot - Epi 10, 15, & 62 - Philadelphia, PA Schilling Beer Co - Littleton, NH KCBC - Epi 25 - Brooklyn, NY Track Brewing Co - Manchester, UK Three Weavers Brewing Company - Inglewood, CA Mentioned People Garrett Oliver - Legendary American Beer Writer & Brooklyn Brewery Brewmaster Ryan Hopkins - CEO of Yakima Chief Hops Rich Koiler - Epi 27 - Co-Owner of Two Locals Victoria Garza - Account Manager at Yakima Chief Hops Bobby Rolandi - Head Brewer of KCBC Kit Every - Brewer at Track Brewing Alex Noelle - Representative of CLS Farms Other Mentions The MJF - Non-Profit for Craft Beer Diversity Yakima Chief - National Hop Producer Snallygaster - Yearly Been Fest CLS Farms - Hop Farm What We Drank? Clean Shot IPA | 6.2% | Sabro Space Cadet Brewing Co. (Collab w/ Lost Time Brewing) _______________________________________   STAY CONNECTED: Instagram: ⁠⁠@brewedat⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@thebrewedatpodcast⁠⁠ Tik Tok: ⁠⁠@brewedat ⁠⁠/ ⁠⁠@thebrewedatpodcast⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠@brewedat⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@thebrewedatpodcast⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠BrewedAt Website: ⁠⁠www.brewedat.com

In this episode of Distilling the West, Dan and Dave dive into a unique tasting talk featuring Wheyward Spirit—a truly one-of-a-kind distillate made from whey, the byproduct of cheese production. This innovative spirit flips traditional distilling on its head, transforming what was once waste into something remarkably refined.The boys explore the story behind Wheyward, discussing its sustainable roots and the creative process that brings this spirit to life. Along the way, they break down its distinctive flavor profile—clean and crisp with subtle hints of vanilla, light fruit, and a creamy texture that sets it apart from grain-based spirits.From nose to finish, Dan and Dave share their honest impressions, tasting notes, and thoughts on where Wheyward fits in the ever-evolving world of craft distilling. If you're curious about unconventional spirits or just love a good deep dive into something different, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Why This Episode MattersElizabeth McCall, Master Distiller of Woodford Reserve, joins the show to talk bourbon, innovation, and what makes Woodford Reserve distinct in a crowded whiskey world.She explains how barrel toasting, proprietary yeast, fermentation, pot still distillation, and texture shape the Woodford Reserve house style.The conversation explores the current state of the whiskey market, including slowing demand, oversupply, tariffs, and why Woodford Reserve continues to grow.McCall discusses what a master distiller actually does — from liquid innovation to protecting the integrity of core products.The episode also looks at women in whiskey, changing bourbon drinkers, and how Woodford Reserve balances heritage, accessibility, and luxury.The BanterMark Pascal and Francis Schott open the show with a conversation about people who are drawn to hospitality, but may or may not be built for restaurant life.The ConversationElizabeth McCall joins to talk about her role as Master Distiller of Woodford Reserve and the craft behind one of America's most recognizable bourbons. She explains why Woodford's flavor profile is built around balance and consistency not just branding or bottle design.The conversation moves from special releases to the essential work of maintaining quality, protecting core products, and developing future innovations. Elizabeth also discusses the broader whiskey market, why Woodford Reserve remains strong during a challenging period, and what it means to be a woman leading one of bourbon's major brands.Timestamps00:00 — Mark and Francis on restaurant life and the people who wish they could work in hospitality10:30 — Elizabeth McCall joins, Woodford Reserve: a bourbon success story16:19 —  What creates Woodford's signature style25:00 — What a Master Distiller actually does30:00 — Woodford Reserve Baccarat story35:15 — Experimental releases, and chasing a coffee note in bourbon37:15 — The whiskey slowdown and why Woodford is still growing44:40 — McCall's career and being a woman in whiskey46:30 — Women whiskey drinkers, buying power, and changing bourbon culture57:15 — The story of jockey Frank HayesBioElizabeth McCall is the Master Distiller of Woodford Reserve. She joined Brown-Forman in 2009, worked closely with longtime Master Distiller Chris Morris, and was appointed Master Distiller of Woodford Reserve in 2023.Elizabeth leads liquid innovation and helps protect the flavor integrity of Woodford Reserve's core products while developing future innovations.InfoWoodford Reserve https://www.woodfordreserve.com/Subscribe: Restaurant Guys' Regularhttps://restaurantguysregulars.buzzsprout.com/Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Stage Left Wine Shophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Our PlacesStage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/Reach Out to The Guys!TheGuys@restaurantguyspodcast.com

Brandon McCraney, the owner and master blender of Old Raleigh Distillery in Zebulon, North Carolina. Brandon details his diverse career journey. from working in hospitality during college to serving as an Air Force officer and a corporate executive—before a pivotal "failure" to secure a VP role led him to pursue his passion for bourbon. He describes the grueling four-year process of opening his distillery, which involved navigating the intense regulations of the spirits industry, facing twelve bank rejections, and eventually emptying his 401k to open during the COVID-19 pandemic. Central to Brandon's leadership philosophy is the concept of "Extreme Ownership," where he takes full responsibility for team outcomes to create better protocols rather than placing blame. He also explains his strategic decision to focus on the art of blending over traditional distillation, allowing for greater creative freedom and the ability to master his craft through high-volume experimentation . Ultimately, Brandon attributes the distillery's success and its hundreds of five-star reviews to his team's ability to flourish within established "field goal posts" of autonomy.10 Key TakeawaysHospitality Roots: Early restaurant work provides a critical foundation for understanding the "grind" and the value of immediate customer feedback.Failure as Redirection: Missing out on a high-level corporate title can be the catalyst needed to transition into entrepreneurship.Due Diligence is Mandatory: Success in highly regulated industries like spirits requires extensive upfront education on "the red tape".Persistence Pays Off: Securing funding may require dozens of attempts; Brandon was rejected 12 times before finding a lender.Legislative Pivots: Staying informed on local laws can reveal new revenue streams, such as the shift in North Carolina allowing distilleries to operate as full bars .Extreme Ownership Mindset: Leaders stay in control when they analyze their own role in a team's mistakes instead of blaming staff.Distilling vs. Blending: Identifying the difference between a manufacturing process (distilling) and an art form (blending) helps clarify a brand's unique passion.The "Field Goal Post" Management Style: Providing clear boundaries (field goal posts) while allowing autonomy within them empowers employees to make confident decisions .Mastery Through Repetition: Achieving mastery requires "putting in the reps"; Brandon blends nearly 20 times more products annually than traditional large brands to sharpen his palate .Trusting the Team: To scale a business, owners must "let go" and provide a foundation where staff can flourish independently.

When the U.S. adopted prohibition in 1920, most alcohol production ceased, but when production resumed in the 1930s, it seems some of the old recipes,...

It's This Week in Bourbon for April 24th 2026. Sazerac has formally offered $15 billion to buy Brown Forman, Uncle Nearest could be forced to shut down within 30 days, and Buffalo Trace Distillery has announced the release of Eagle Rare 30. Show Notes: Jeptha Creed Distillery launches new visitor experiences and single-barrel programs to mark 10th anniversary Sazerac launches $15 billion acquisition bid for rival Brown-Forman Uncle Nearest faces potential shutdown and insolvency amid financial crisis and default Diageo opens new $415 million automated manufacturing facility in Alabama Buffalo Trace announces Eagle Rare 30, its oldest age-stated bourbon, for $12,500 Kentucky Senator Bourbon and PDJF partner for limited 140-bottle charity release Jack Daniel Distillery debuts Special Release Small Batch Rye aged 10 years Michter's announces first-ever release of US*1 Barrel Strength Sour Mash in May Hard Truth Distilling Co. unveils limited Mizunara Finished Wheated Bourbon B.R. Distilling launches unfiltered Blue Note Small Batch Wheated Bourbon Maker's Mark releases 2026 edition of wheat-forward Star Hill Farm Whisky Four Roses rolls out second rotation of its Single Barrel Collection nationwide Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most leaders think delegation is about telling people what to do. But what if the real bottleneck isn't your team's capacity but your relationship with control, perfectionism, and hard conversations? In this episode, Brett shares his own struggle with delegation across multiple growing businesses, and Joe offers a framework for moving from vision to execution without falling into the traps of micromanagement or hands-off abandonment. Together, they explore: Why the leader's job is not to take care of everybody Distilling strategy and vision into the "one thing" that makes everything else easier or irrelevant Solution criteria: how to delegate without dictating or abandoning Why alignment comes from handling objections, not convincing Making it safe (and expected) for your team to say no Why "management" is often a symptom of missing trust Holding people accountable without making it about "trouble" Scheduling hard conversations on your calendar (literally) Institutionalizing appreciation without making it cheesy Why your company is a reflection of your own consciousness Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter welcome Devin Puckett, Brand Representative for Old Glory Distilling Co. out of Clarksville, Tennessee, to the Bourbon Road. Devin shares the remarkable origin story of Old Glory — from founder Matt Cunningham's days as a firefighter devising a distillery plan in his mid-twenties, through the COVID pivot to hand sanitizer that ultimately funded a towering 24-foot Vendome copper column still, to the 8,650-barrel warehouse that stands today. Devin also reveals his own path into the industry: a Ball State grad from northern Indiana who married into the Cunningham family, sold RVs, and answered a text message that changed everything. **On the Tasting Mat:** - **Old Glory Tennessee Bourbon Small Batch (90 Proof):** A grain-to-glass Tennessee bourbon distilled on a Vendome copper column still from a mash bill of 73% corn, 19% rye, and 8% malted barley, aged approximately three and a half years in new char #4 Kelvin barrels. Bright and clean on the palate with a dry finish, green apple, caramel drizzle, and light citrus — an accessible everyday pour at an approachable price point. *(00:09:50)* - **Old Glory Tennessee Bourbon Bottled in Bond (100 Proof):** Drawn from 15–20 hand-selected pot still barrels and aged five years — an extra year beyond the minimum bonded requirement — this expression steps up the complexity considerably. The same 73/19/8 rye mash bill opens into darker fruit, rich brown sugar, cardamom, cinnamon, and a wave of baking spices, with a noticeably fuller, rounder texture. *(00:30:34)* - **Old Glory Tennessee Bourbon Single Barrel #271 (121.7 Proof / 5 Years 9 Months):** Selected by master blender Caleb Martin, this cask-strength pot still expression offers an entirely different dimension — a lush dessert character of blackberry cobbler, buttery dark fruit, and a lingering finish that keeps unfolding. One of the early pot still barrels that helped define Old Glory's identity before the column still era. *(00:44:10)* From a cornfield off I-24 to nearly 9,000 barrels of aging Tennessee whiskey, Old Glory is a distillery doing it the long way — grain to glass, family owned, community rooted. With a double oak release on the horizon, 100% rye and wheat casks quietly maturing in the warehouse, and a thriving on-site restaurant and event venue, there's plenty of road ahead for Clarksville's homegrown spirit. If you find yourself between Nashville and the Kentucky border, Old Glory Distilling Co. is more than worth the detour.

This Day in Legal History: Richard Nixon DiesOn April 22, 1994, Richard Nixon died at the age of 81, marking the end of a presidency that left a lasting imprint on American legal history. Nixon's legacy is inseparable from the Watergate scandal, a constitutional crisis that tested the limits of presidential power. The scandal began with a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and expanded into a wide-ranging investigation of abuse of executive authority. As evidence mounted, legal battles emerged over whether a sitting president could withhold information under claims of executive privilege.The issue came to a head in the landmark Supreme Court case United States v. Nixon, where the Court unanimously ruled that the president must comply with a subpoena to release tape recordings. This decision significantly narrowed the scope of executive privilege, establishing that it is not absolute and cannot be used to obstruct justice. The ruling reinforced the principle that even the president is subject to the rule of law. Facing near-certain impeachment, Nixon resigned in August 1974, becoming the first U.S. president to do so.His resignation demonstrated the strength of constitutional checks and balances, particularly Congress's oversight authority and the judiciary's role in resolving disputes over executive power. In the years that followed, Watergate prompted reforms such as the War Powers Resolution and amendments to campaign finance laws. Legal scholars continue to cite the episode as a defining moment in the development of accountability for high-ranking officials. Nixon's death in 1994 closed a chapter, but the legal principles shaped during Watergate remain central to debates over presidential authority.West Virginia reached an $11 million settlement with Roblox to address concerns about child safety on the platform. The agreement follows a nine-month investigation led by Attorney General JB McCuskey, which found that existing safeguards exposed children to explicit content and potential predators. As part of the deal, Roblox must implement mandatory age verification before users can access chat features, aiming to reduce anonymous misuse. The platform will also restrict adults from contacting users under 16 unless they are verified trusted connections. Additional protections include default safe-content settings for minors and alerts when young users enter private chats for the first time.The settlement allocates funds over several years, including money for public safety campaigns, internet safety specialists, and educational workshops. Roblox stated that the agreement aligns with its broader goal of improving digital safety and collaborating with regulators. This deal comes amid similar actions by other states, including a recent agreement in Nevada with comparable age verification measures. Multiple lawsuits across the country accuse Roblox of failing to prevent adults from exploiting minors on the platform. Many of these cases have been consolidated in federal court in California, where plaintiffs allege harm resulting from online grooming.W.Va. Strikes $11.5M Deal With Roblox Over Kid Safety - Law360A divided U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit ruled that Texas can require public schools to display the Ten Commandments in every classroom, overturning a lower court order that had blocked the law. The decision upheld Texas Senate Bill 10, finding that the requirement does not violate the Constitution's protections against government establishment of religion or its guarantees of religious freedom. The majority reasoned that the law does not force anyone to adopt religious beliefs or interfere with how individuals practice their faith.The challenge was brought by families from various religious and nonreligious backgrounds, who argued that the mandate infringes on their right to control their children's religious upbringing. Their attorney indicated plans to appeal the ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton praised the decision, calling it a victory for the state and emphasizing the historical influence of the Ten Commandments.The ruling was not unanimous, with a strong dissent arguing that the court ignored binding Supreme Court precedent. The dissent pointed to a 1980 Supreme Court decision that struck down a similar Kentucky law, suggesting the Texas measure should also be unconstitutional. By reversing the earlier injunction, the appeals court cleared the way for the law to take effect while further appeals are expected.Texas can require Ten Commandments in classrooms, US appeals court rules | ReutersLabor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer stepped down from her role in U.S. Department of Labor amid controversy tied to an internal watchdog investigation into alleged misconduct. The probe reportedly examined claims of an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate, along with other workplace concerns, though some allegations were publicly disputed. Her departure follows weeks of media coverage and discussion during a congressional oversight hearing.The White House announced that Chavez-DeRemer will move to a private-sector position, while Deputy Secretary Keith Sonderling will serve as acting head of the agency. In public statements, Chavez-DeRemer highlighted her efforts to support workers, expand job training, and address economic issues during her tenure, while administration officials praised her leadership.The situation also involved broader personnel disruptions, including reports that several aides were placed on leave or left their positions. Additional complaints and allegations—some denied or unproven—contributed to scrutiny surrounding her leadership. Her husband was also investigated over separate allegations, though no charges were filed.Chavez-DeRemer's exit adds to other recent Cabinet-level departures during Donald Trump's administration. Lawmakers, including Representative Rosa DeLauro, criticized the situation as a leadership failure and called for a replacement focused on the department's mission. Observers noted that Sonderling could be a leading candidate for the permanent role, though no official nomination has been announced.Trump's Labor Secretary Steps Down - Law360A federal appeals court, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, ruled that a nearly 160-year-old ban on home distilling is constitutional, deepening a disagreement with another appellate court. The court said the prohibition is a valid way for Congress to ensure collection of excise taxes on distilled spirits, reasoning that allowing home production could lead to widespread tax evasion. The case was brought by John Ream, who wanted to distill whiskey at home for personal use.The ruling comes shortly after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit reached the opposite conclusion, finding the same law unnecessary and unconstitutional. This disagreement between appellate courts—known as a circuit split—raises the likelihood that the U.S. Supreme Court will step in to resolve the issue. Ream's legal team has already indicated plans to appeal.The law at issue dates back to 1868, when Congress enacted it during Reconstruction to combat liquor tax evasion. Violations can carry significant penalties, including prison time and fines. In upholding the ban, the majority opinion emphasized Congress's longstanding rationale that prohibiting home distilling encourages consumers to buy taxed alcohol instead. A dissenting judge, however, argued the case should not proceed because Ream failed to show he faced a real risk of prosecution.US appeals court calls 158-year-old home distilling ban constitutional, creates split | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Никита Поваров, principal analyst в JetBrains, пришёл, чтобы рассказать об одной из самых коварных ловушек в работе с данными: мы привыкли видеть корреляции, но совершенно не умеем доказывать причинность. А разница между "связано" и "вызывает" – это разница между правильным решением и красивой иллюзией. В выпуске прошли по истории вопроса от Гальтона и Фишера до современных каузальных графов: почему исторически статистика и каузальность шли разными путями и как они всё-таки сошлись. Разбираем d-сепарацию, конфаундеры, медиаторы и строим каузальные графы на конкретных примерах из A/B тестирования, медицины и продуктовой аналитики. Выпуск для всех, кто работает с данными и хочет не просто находить паттерны, а понимать, что на что влияет и уметь это обосновать. Также ждем вас, ваши лайки, репосты и комменты в мессенджерах и соцсетях!
 Telegram-чат: https://t.me/podlodka Telegram-канал: https://t.me/podlodkanews Страница в Facebook: www.facebook.com/podlodkacast/ Twitter-аккаунт: https://twitter.com/PodcastPodlodka Ведущие в выпуске: Стас Цыганов, Егор Толстой Полезные ссылки: Фундамент — вероятность как логика E.T. Jaynes — «Probability Theory: The Logic of Science» Вес и физическая активность — каузальные модели Mendelian randomization, eLife 2022: «Mendelian randomization suggests a bidirectional, causal relationship between physical inactivity and adiposity» https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8975550/ Multivariable MR, Nature Comms Med 2023: «Distilling causality between physical activity traits and obesity via Mendelian randomization» https://www.nature.com/articles/s43856-023-00407-5 E. Yudkowsky — «Causal Diagrams and Causal Models» https://www.lesswrong.com/posts/hzuSDMx7pd2uxFc5w/causal-diagrams-and-causal-models Выдуманный пример вес/активность/сидение-на-Reddit, как иллюстрация коллайдера Herman Pontzer — «Constrained Total Energy Expenditure and Metabolic Adaptation to Physical Activity in Adult Humans» https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4803033/ Исторические байки Ф. Гальтон — Регрессия к среднему — Regression towards Mediocrity in Hereditary Stature, Journal of the Anthropological Institute https://galton.org/essays/1880-1889/galton-1886-jaigi-regression-stature.pdf К. Пирсон — Корреляция наше всё — «The Grammar of Science» https://archive.org/details/grammarofscience00pearrich/page/44/mode/2up Р. Фишер — ген курильщика — «Cancer and smoking», Nature https://www.nature.com/articles/182596a0 Ignaz Semmelweis — мытьё рук https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ignaz_Semmelweis краткая биография https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11568873/ Джон Сноу — холера в Лондоне https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7150208/ Barbara Stoddard Burks — забытый пионер медиации https://danamackenzie.com/barbara-stoddard-burks-pioneer-in-causality/ Бедность и когнитивные функции https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23990553/ Дискриминация женщин — слепые прослушивания https://www.aeaweb.org/articles?id=10.1257/aer.90.4.715 Курьёз — ретроспективный эффект молитвы — «Effects of remote, retroactive intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients with bloodstream infection: randomised controlled trial» https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11751349/

The spirits industry is at a crossroads. As consumer preferences shift toward intentional drinking and premiumization, the old playbook for craft distilleries is being rewritten. In this episode of The Bourbon Lens, we dive into the evolving market dynamics of 2026 and why the most successful brands are ditching national expansion to own their home state first.We break down the critical importance of product differentiation and why innovation is no longer optional—it's the only way to survive a crowded shelf. Whether you are a distillery founder looking to build a loyal local following or a bourbon enthusiast curious about the "why" behind your favorite pours, this discussion offers a deep look into the creativity driving the modern whiskey movement.Key Discussion Points:The 2026 Shift: How market dynamics are changing for craft producers.Hyper-Local Branding: Why winning your backyard is the key to sustainable growth.Innovation vs. Gimmick: Using creativity to stand out in a sea of brown spirits.Consumer Psychology: What the modern whiskey drinker is actually looking for in a bottle.

The guys discuss the overturning of the Federal home distilling ban, and what it means for whiskey enthusiasts

Whiskey might be changing in a big way. A recent appeals court ruling could potentially make home distilling legal in the United States - a move that could reshape the entire whiskey landscape. But that's not the only shift happening right now. This week on Bourbon Bytes, I break down: The home distilling ruling and what it actually means MGP slowing production and what that signals for bourbon supply A potential deal between Sazerac and Brown-Forman Sazerac's newly named Tennessee distillery and future plans And of course, I'm reviewing Kentucky Senator Bourbon "Jim Bunning" Release #7 to see if it lives up to the hype.

The news of Texas covered today includes:Our Lone Star story of the day: Rep. Charlie Geren's House Admin. committee finally gets around to voting to fine House Democrats who broke quorum last summer. But wait, there's more: They don't owe it until officially served with notice of the vote and given how long it has taken to get the vote, who knows how long that might take. Even if quickly, Dems may not pay with personal funds rendering the penalty much ado about nothing. In responding BooHoo Wu qualifies as a Captain Obvious contestant.Our Lone Star story of the day is sponsored by Allied Compliance Services providing the best service in DOT, business and personal drug and alcohol testing since 1995.Another edition of Talarico Tales: Little Jimmy “The Creep” Talarico says that police in schools enhances a culture of violence; sought to force hiring of 4 social worker counselors for every one police officer at a public school campus. This guy is not just a nutjob, he's the whole fruit basket of crazy.Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals declares 158-year-old U.S. home distilling ban unconstitutional. It's a panel of the court and the decision may be appealed. It only applies to states, like Texas, that are in the 5th Circuit at present so I'd wait a bit before firing up that still at home.Listen on the radio, or station stream, at 5pm Central. Click for our radio and streaming affiliates.www.PrattonTexas.com

The law has been on the books since 1868 and was supposedly in place to keep people from avoiding the tax on the product - an appeals court said that makes no sense. https://www.lehtoslaw.com

Can a North Carolina distillery really take on the heavyweights of the Bluegrass? Today, we're joined by Pete Barger, the co-founder of Southern Distilling Company, to talk about how he's disrupting the craft bourbon landscape from just outside of Charlotte. Pete brings a unique background of engineering and agricultural expertise to the table, and he's sharing the story of how they built a massive, state-of-the-art operation that's doing everything from contract distilling for powerhouses like Brothers Bond to winning double golds with their own Paragon wheated bourbon. Pete breaks down their commitment to regenerative farming and how sourcing local North Carolina grains creates a flavor profile that stands out in a crowded market. We also taste their American Single Malt and just wait until you hear Ryan's reaction. This is what American Single Malt has been missing. Show Notes: The craft bourbon movement's landscape in North Carolina Merging engineering with whiskey-making Tackling the whisky provenance debate: quality vs. origin Collaboration insights: Brothers Bond and regenerative agriculture The role of barrel selection and innovative finishes The introduction of honey-cask bourbon and its market strategy Future plans for Southern Distilling and commitment to community Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices