Fun time with minerals. Great for your kids Cover art photo provided by Miguel Bruna on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/@mbrunacr
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Ben Simonson Podcasts
An online series about craft cocktails around the world & the bartenders who make them. Hosted by the award-winning bartender, Erick Castro.
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Mastering Agave Spirits w Agave Masters | Bartender at Large ep 469
32:36
32:36
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Today we sit down with two leaders in agave spirits education, David Alan, Director of Advocacy for the Agave Spirits Portfolio at Bacardi USA, and Rob McCaughey, Global Head of Business Development at WSET. David shares how his program was built to support bartenders and grow the entire agave category, while Rob explains the unique structure of th…
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From World Class Champ to Published Author w Kaitlyn Stewart | Bartender at Large ep 468
31:52
31:52
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31:52
This week we are joined by Kaitlyn Stewart, the 2017 World Class Bartender of the Year, also know as the social media phenomenon @LikableCocktails. She discusses her new book, "Three Cheers: Cocktails Three Ways." Kaitlyn explains the unique format, which presents recipes as classics, creative riffs, and zero-proof sips. She shares why this inclusi…
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Cutting Edge Cocktails in a High-Volume Space w Maxwell Reis | Bartender at Large ep 467
27:10
27:10
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27:10
This week we sit down with acclaimed bartender and partner Maxwell Reis to discuss his innovative work in Los Angeles. He shares his deep commitment to sustainability and his use of natural ingredients in cocktails. Maxwell talks about his creative process and how he balances modern ideas with classic traditions in bars that do serious volume. He a…
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Exploring the Flavors of Oaxaca w Fabiola Santiago | Bartender at Large ep 466
26:56
26:56
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26:56
This week, we are joined by Fabiola Santiago to discuss her important work with the non-profit organization, Mi Oaxaca. She explains their mission to preserve the Indigenous food and beverage cultures of Oaxaca. Fabiola shares how their new non-profit status will help expand their efforts. This work includes creating educational opportunities and b…
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The Whiskey Bible w Noah Rothbaum | Bartender at Large ep 464
35:30
35:30
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35:30
This week we are joined by acclaimed cocktail writer Noah Rothbaum to discuss his new book, "The Whiskey Bible." This comprehensive guide is the result of his 25 years of researching and tasting whiskies from around the world. Noah takes us on a journey to solve whiskey mysteries, settle debates, and bust common myths. The book features in-depth re…
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Himkok at 10 Years w Maros Dzurus | Bartender at Large ep 465
26:18
26:18
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26:18
We sit down with Maroš Dzurus, the bar manager of Oslo's world-renowned Himkok Bar and Distillerie. As the bar celebrates its 10th anniversary, we discuss how it stays at the forefront of the cocktail world. Maroš shares the philosophy behind their constant innovation and creative process. He explains how they keep their drinks and experience fresh…
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Martini Expo w Robert Simonson | Bartender at Large ep 463
26:40
26:40
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26:40
We are joined by renowned cocktail writer Robert Simonson to discuss the first-ever Martini Expo in New York City. He tells us about this unique convention dedicated entirely to the history and culture of the Martini. The event will feature seminars, tastings, guest bartenders, and a special Martini dinner. Robert explains his inspiration for creat…
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Rhum Agricole w Ben Jones | Bartender at Large ep 462
29:14
29:14
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29:14
Join us for a fascinating talk with Ben Jones from Rhum Clément. He delves into the unique history and production of Rhum Agricole. Jones, U.S. Managing Director of SPIRIBAM, explains what makes this style of rum so distinct from all others. He also shares the rich heritage behind the Clément brand. Listen now to discover the story of this exceptio…
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Bar Consulting & Work Life Balance w Sean Finter | Bartender at Large ep 461
29:02
29:02
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29:02
This week, we are joined by industry entrepreneur and hospitality guru, Sean Finter, bar coach of Finter Group, and founder of the consulting firm, Barmetrix. During his years as a consultant, he and his team opened 26 offices in 8 countries, but at huge cost to his health and personal life. In many ways, he conquered the bar consultancy world, yet…
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The Finer Points of Garnish w Joaquin Simo | Bartender at Large ep 460
29:14
29:14
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29:14
We sit down with award-winning bartender Joaquin Simo, Global Brand Ambassador and mixologist for On the Rocks Cocktails, to talk about the details of a great drink. He shares his expert thoughts on the purpose and art of the cocktail garnish. We also learn about his new role and work with On the Rocks Cocktails. Joaquin explains the process behind…
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Awards Season w Naren Young | Bartender at Large ep 459
27:57
27:57
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27:57
Join us for a conversation with award-winning bartender Naren Young, creative director of Sweet Liberty, Medium Cool and Zebra Club in Miami. In the show, we discuss the world of cocktail awards and the pros & cons of what they mean for the industry. Naren shares his unique perspective from both judging and winning these awards, as well as all the …
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Live from the Irish House at Tales of the Cocktail | Bartender at Large ep 458
1:05:31
1:05:31
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1:05:31
Join us for a live & on location recording from Tales of the Cocktail at New Orleans’ Irish House, featuring Ireland’s finest in drinks and hospitality. Tim Herlihy & Leah Doyle, of Lost Irish, share the revival of historic Irish spirits, while Dave Mulligan, owner of Bar 1661, dives into modern Irish cocktail culture. Kealan Finlay Mulligan, of Ma…
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Talking Cocktails w Run the Jewels | Bartender at Large ep 457
34:06
34:06
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34:06
Legendary hip-hop duo Run the Jewels—EL-P and Killer Mike—stop by to spill the tea (and the liquor) on their new line of canned cocktails, Juice Runners. They break down the flavors, the creative process behind the brand, and how it ties into their music and lifestyle. Of course, no RTJ interview is complete without some industry insights, and a fe…
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Low ABV Gin w Leo Robitschek | Bartender at Large ep 456
28:28
28:28
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28:28
Join us as we sit down with Leo Robitschek, award-winning bartender, consultant, and Partner/VP of Food & Beverage at The Nomad Hotel. Former Managing Partner of Make It Nice—overseeing Eleven Madison Park and the iconic Nomad Bar—Leo shares insights from his storied career, including winning the 2014 James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program. …
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Education & Advancement w Jessamine McLellan | Bartender at Large ep 455
29:01
29:01
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29:01
Join us for an inspiring chat with Jessamine McLellan, Director of the U.S. Campari Academy & Trade Advocacy, as she shares her journey from bartending to shaping spirits education. With over a decade in the industry, she’s a driving force behind innovative training programs and mentorship that elevate bartenders nationwide. Discover how her expert…
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Letters to a Young Bartender w Colin Asare-Appiah | Bartender at Large ep 454
25:03
25:03
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25:03
Tune in as we chat with Colin Asare-Appiah, creator of "Letters to a Young Bartender," a mentorship program guiding the next generation of craft cocktail professionals. Colin shares invaluable advice on honing your skills, building confidence behind the bar, and navigating the industry with intention. From cocktail techniques to career growth, this…
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One on One w Ryan Maybee of J. Rieger & Co. | Bartender at Large ep 453
33:09
33:09
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33:09
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ryan Maybee—bartender, entrepreneur, and founder of Kansas City’s award-winning J. Rieger & Co. distillery. From crafting world-class spirits to reviving a historic brand, Ryan shares his journey, the challenges of distilling, and his passion for the industry. Discover the stories behind the bottles, the c…
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Getting Back to Fundamentals w Kevin Beary | Bartender at Large ep 452
25:59
25:59
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25:59
Ever been to a bar with no back bar? We sat down with Kevin Beary (Beverage Director & Partner at 3 Dots & a Dash and Gus’ Sip & Dip) to talk about his no-back-bar cocktail spot, Gus’ Sip & Dip—where the focus is all on classics done right. Find out why less is more, how they’re flipping the script on bar service, and why Kevin thinks simplicity is…
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Cocktails Meet Art w Stacy Michelson | Bartender at Large ep 451
27:22
27:22
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27:22
This week on Bartender at Large, we sit down with Los Angeles-based illustrator and author Stacy Michelson, whose whimsical yet educational art brings the food and beverage world to life. With roots in the restaurant industry and a deep love for produce, Stacy blends research and creativity to tell the stories behind the ingredients we love. Buy St…
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Behind the Scenes w Bad Birdy | Bartender at Large ep 450
27:17
27:17
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27:17
This week we discuss entrepreunership with Amanda Colom, aka Bad Birdy—the tattooed bartender, CEO, and global cocktail creative shaking up Los Angeles! With a massive Instagram following, Amanda shares her vibrant work and life, proving she’s a force in the industry. Dubbed by *Inked Magazine* as the ‘Tattooed bartender taking over LA,’ she’s rede…
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Innovation & Creativity w Ben Branson of Seedlip | Bartender at Large ep 449
26:44
26:44
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26:44
Bartender at Large is excited to share our conversation with Ben Branson, founder of Seedlip, the world’s first non-alcoholic distilled spirit. We discussed his journey from a simple idea to revolutionizing the drinks industry, the importance of sustainability, and what’s next for Seedlip. Whether you’re a founder, a cocktail enthusiast, or just cu…
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AAPI Cocktail Week w Kevin Diedrich | Bartender at Large ep 448
27:45
27:45
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27:45
This week on Bartender at Large, we’re celebrating AAPI Cocktail Week with special guest Kevin Diedrich, the force behind Pacific Cocktail Haven and Kona’s in San Francisco. We talk about the origins of AAPI Cocktail Week, building community through hospitality, and what it means to represent culture behind the bar. Tune in for insight, inspiration…
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Rock Star Turned Brandy Advocate w Billy Gould | Bartender at Large ep 447
25:43
25:43
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25:43
Faith No More’s Billy Gould dives into the story behind Yebiga, his Serbian plum brandy. He shares how his love for Balkan culture inspired the bold, authentic spirit. Gould explains the craft behind Yebiga, from traditional distillation to its unfiltered purity. He also laughs about its ‘no-nonsense’ strength and the best ways to enjoy it. Whether…
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Making Additive Free Tequila w Sam Willy | Bartender at Large ep 446
31:06
31:06
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31:06
Join us this week as we are joined by Sam Willy, Regional Agave Master for PATRÓN Tequila, as he dives into the art of traditional tequila production. Sam explains the meticulous process—from harvesting ripe agave to slow fermentation—that sets premium tequila apart. He also highlights the growing demand for additive-free tequila and why transparen…
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Mexican Drinking Traditions w Alan Ruesga-Pelayo | Bartender at Large ep 445
29:10
29:10
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29:10
Join us for an inspiring chat with Alan Ruesga-Pelayo, former North American Brand Ambassador for Tequila Cazadores, as he shares why he believes that tequila is more than just a drink—it’s a celebration of Mexico’s rich history and culture. He believes that a great drink becomes even better when paired with a meaningful narrative. Tune in for a co…
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