Bartender at Large
An online series about craft cocktails around the world & the bartenders who make them. Hosted by the award-winning bartender, Erick Castro.
info_outline
How to Actually Market Your Bar on Social Media with Rain Garcia | Bartender at Large ep 521 VIDEO
10/19/2026
How to Actually Market Your Bar on Social Media with Rain Garcia | Bartender at Large ep 521 VIDEO
These days more and more guests skip Google and Yelp when they’re picking a bar. They search Instagram and TikTok instead. So how does a bar without a big marketing budget get found? This week we’re joined by Rain Garcia, founder of Garcia Media Works. Rain explains how she uses a SWAT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) to find what makes a bar worth posting about. She also talks about why viral views in the wrong city are just a vanity metric, and how to use keywords, carousels, Instagram’s trial reels and pop culture moments to get more people through the door. So tune in this week as Rain shares how bars can turn followers into regulars, no matter the budget. Get your Free Samples of Perfect Puree: ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/bartenderatlarge FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartender Bartender at Large: https://www.tiktok.com/@bartenderatlarge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: www.twitter.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.twitter.com/BartendAtLarge
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/43354119
info_outline
How to Actually Market Your Bar on Social Media with Rain Garcia | Bartender at Large ep 521
10/19/2026
How to Actually Market Your Bar on Social Media with Rain Garcia | Bartender at Large ep 521
These days more and more guests skip Google and Yelp when they’re picking a bar. They search Instagram and TikTok instead. So how does a bar without a big marketing budget get found? This week we’re joined by Rain Garcia, founder of Garcia Media Works. Rain explains how she uses a SWAT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) to find what makes a bar worth posting about. She also talks about why viral views in the wrong city are just a vanity metric, and how to use keywords, carousels, Instagram’s trial reels and pop culture moments to get more people through the door. So tune in this week as Rain shares how bars can turn followers into regulars, no matter the budget. Get your Free Samples of Perfect Puree: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/43353684
info_outline
Goto's Bartender's Guide w Kenta Goto & Noah Rothbaum | Bartender at Large ep 520
10/15/2026
Goto's Bartender's Guide w Kenta Goto & Noah Rothbaum | Bartender at Large ep 520
This week we’re joined by Kenta Goto of New York’s Bar Goto and James Beard Award-winning spirits writer Noah Rothbaum to talk about their new book, The Goto Bartender's Guide: A Philosophy of Cocktails, Hospitality, and How to Make Great Drinks Every Time. Kenta shares why he waited until Bar Goto turned 10 to finally put his methods on paper. The two also dig into one of the most overlooked ingredients in any cocktail, water, and how matching your stirs and shakes to a spirit’s proof can transform a drink. Along the way, Kenta explains his philosophy of intentional bartending and omotenashi, the Japanese approach to hospitality that has made his bar a destination for drinkers around the world. Get your Free Samples of Perfect Puree: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/43258693
info_outline
Life Outside the Bar w Lex Cerino | Bartender at Large ep 519
10/06/2026
Life Outside the Bar w Lex Cerino | Bartender at Large ep 519
This week we are joined by bartender, spirits specialist and consultant Lex, who opens up about the hardest chapter of her life. For four years she worked 14-hour bar shifts while raising the little sister she adopted when she was just 26. She also fought for custody in family court on her own, often walking into the courthouse straight from a closing shift with no sleep. So tune in as she shares how she kept smiling for guests through all of it, and how the coworkers who stepped up carried her when she couldn't see the light at the end of the tunnel. She also explains why everyone deserves a little grace, on both sides of the bar. Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/43175133
info_outline
Storytelling Through Cocktails w Kapri Robinson & Princess Johnson of Allegory | Bartender at Large ep 517
09/28/2026
Storytelling Through Cocktails w Kapri Robinson & Princess Johnson of Allegory | Bartender at Large ep 517
This week we head to Washington, DC to pull up a stool with Kapri Robinson and Princess Johnson of Allegory, one of the most inventive bars in the country and a fixture on the North America's 50 Best Bars list. They take us behind the scenes of their famously ambitious concept menus, including their current book-length tribute to Ruby Bridges, complete with hand-built dioramas made from thrifted toys. Along the way, they break down the one-to-two-year R&D process behind every menu, how they keep egos out of the creative room, and what's next for Allegory, from new formats to "Club Allegory" dance nights. LINK TO MENU: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/43065313
info_outline
Chief Mixologist and Spirits Educator for Total Wine: Molly Horn | Bartender at Large ep 516
09/21/2026
Chief Mixologist and Spirits Educator for Total Wine: Molly Horn | Bartender at Large ep 516
Walk into any Total Wine & More these days and there's a good chance a bartender has had a hand in what you're seeing on the shelves. This week we're joined by Molly Horn, Chief Mixologist and Spirits Educator at Total Wine & More, who traded restaurant bartending for a role teaching both store staff and shoppers how to drink better at home. We dig into how bar trends take a few years to trickle down to home bartenders, how TikTok can send a drink like the Dubai chocolate martini viral overnight, why rum and mezcal are having a moment in certain markets, and how canned cocktails are turning curious shoppers into home bartenders. Plus, Molly shares why putting a bartender on the sales floor might be the best move a bottle shop can make. Get your free samples: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42976548
info_outline
Palm Republic Rum w Eric Winter | Bartender at Large ep 515
09/14/2026
Palm Republic Rum w Eric Winter | Bartender at Large ep 515
Rum has long suffered from an image problem in this country, as too many drinkers still associate the category with sugary spiced bottles and sticky frozen drinks. But if tequila could go from a spirit taken by the shot to one sipped and studied, then why can't rum do the same? To help us make sense of where the category is headed, we are joined this week by actor and co-founder of Palm Republic Rum, Eric Winter. So tune in as he shares how a single pour of aged rum nearly twenty years ago set him down this path, and what went into blending Jamaican funk with rums from Panama and the US Virgin Islands. Get your free samples: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42898205
info_outline
Bar Design & Equipment w Corrinne Walenda | Bartender at Large ep 514
09/07/2026
Bar Design & Equipment w Corrinne Walenda | Bartender at Large ep 514
Bartenders spend their whole careers reaching into ice wells, pulling from speed rails and slamming glass door coolers shut a few hundred times a night, and yet most of us have never given a second thought to who decides how any of that gets built. To help us pull back the curtain on the equipment side of the business we are joined by Corrinne Walenda, Corporate Training Manager and Brand Ambassador for Perlick, who has spent nearly 15 years working in restaurant equipment and building training programs that translate between the people who make the gear and the people who use it. Get your free samples: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42785410
info_outline
Bartender Finance w Dana June | Bartender at Large ep 513
09/01/2026
Bartender Finance w Dana June | Bartender at Large ep 513
It is no secret that our industry moves in cash and good nights, but very few of us were ever taught what to actually do with it once it lands in our pocket. Between untracked income, lifestyle creep and a social media feed constantly telling us how we should be spending, it is far too easy to make great money for years and still have nothing to show for it. This week's guest learned that lesson early, watching her mother lose her job in the 2008 crash after more than a decade of strong earnings behind the bar. So tune in as we are joined by Dana June, founder of How to Cocktail and author of the book of the same name, as she shares practical advice on maximizing income, building an emergency fund, and taking advantage of the tax benefits that service industry workers so often leave on the table. Get your free samples: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42621435
info_outline
Global Bar Consulting w Chris Lowder | Bartender at Large ep 512 Episode VIDEO
08/25/2026
Global Bar Consulting w Chris Lowder | Bartender at Large ep 512 Episode VIDEO
This week we are joined by Chris Lowder, co-founder of Lowder-Tascarella Hospitality, two-time Tales of the Cocktail nominee for Best Global Bar Mentor, and one of Drinks International's 100 Most Influential Figures in the Global Bar Industry. After leading World's 50 Best-recognized bars across China, Chris co-founded LTH, now a team of 18 spanning New York, Miami, and Bangkok, with his latest work on display at Miami Beach's Shelborne by Proper. So tune in as we discuss why sustainable operations and financial literacy beat chasing accolades, his years bartending in Korea and China, and the hidden challenges of hotel F&B development. Get your free samples: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42551925
info_outline
Global Bar Consulting w Chris Lowder | Bartender at Large ep 512 Episode
08/25/2026
Global Bar Consulting w Chris Lowder | Bartender at Large ep 512 Episode
This week we are joined by Chris Lowder, co-founder of Lowder-Tascarella Hospitality, two-time Tales of the Cocktail nominee for Best Global Bar Mentor, and one of Drinks International's 100 Most Influential Figures in the Global Bar Industry. After leading World's 50 Best-recognized bars across China, Chris co-founded LTH, now a team of 18 spanning New York, Miami, and Bangkok, with his latest work on display at Miami Beach's Shelborne by Proper. So tune in as we discuss why sustainable operations and financial literacy beat chasing accolades, his years bartending in Korea and China, and the hidden challenges of hotel F&B development. Get your free samples: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42542310
info_outline
Canned Cocktails Done Right w Neal Cohen of Tip Top Proper Cocktails | Bartender at Large ep 511
08/17/2026
Canned Cocktails Done Right w Neal Cohen of Tip Top Proper Cocktails | Bartender at Large ep 511
Not too long ago, the idea of a truly great cocktail coming out of a can seemed like a contradiction in terms, but this week's guest has been on a mission to change that. We are joined by Neal Cohen, Co-Founder and Chief Brand Officer of Atlanta-based Tip Top Proper Cocktails. Before launching the brand in 2018 with childhood friend Yoni Reisman, Neal spent years in radio and as Marketing Director for Superfly, producing large-scale events like Bonnaroo and Outside Lands, where he noticed something was missing from the market: bar-quality classic cocktails you could actually enjoy at a concert, a tailgate, or on your own couch. So tune in as Neal shares how they enlisted eight-time James Beard Award nominee Miles Macquarrie (Kimball House) to develop the recipes, how a background in music and brand-building shaped the company, and what it takes to pioneer an entire category. In addition, we discuss the growing lineup of Tip Top classics, from the Old Fashioned and Negroni to the Paper Plane and Penicillin, and where the prepared cocktail space is headed next. Get your free samples: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42460190
info_outline
Canned Cocktails Done Right w Neal Cohen of Tip Top Proper Cocktails | Bartender at Large ep 511 VIDEO
08/17/2026
Canned Cocktails Done Right w Neal Cohen of Tip Top Proper Cocktails | Bartender at Large ep 511 VIDEO
Not too long ago, the idea of a truly great cocktail coming out of a can seemed like a contradiction in terms, but this week's guest has been on a mission to change that. We are joined by Neal Cohen, Co-Founder and Chief Brand Officer of Atlanta-based Tip Top Proper Cocktails. Before launching the brand in 2018 with childhood friend Yoni Reisman, Neal spent years in radio and as Marketing Director for Superfly, producing large-scale events like Bonnaroo and Outside Lands, where he noticed something was missing from the market: bar-quality classic cocktails you could actually enjoy at a concert, a tailgate, or on your own couch. So tune in as Neal shares how they enlisted eight-time James Beard Award nominee Miles Macquarrie (Kimball House) to develop the recipes, how a background in music and brand-building shaped the company, and what it takes to pioneer an entire category. In addition, we discuss the growing lineup of Tip Top classics, from the Old Fashioned and Negroni to the Paper Plane and Penicillin, and where the prepared cocktail space is headed next. Get your free samples: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42463560
info_outline
Commercial Bar Design That Works w Tobin Ellis | Bartender at Large ep 510 Video
08/10/2026
Commercial Bar Design That Works w Tobin Ellis | Bartender at Large ep 510 Video
Have you ever worked a shift behind a bar that seemed like it was designed by someone who has never made a drink in their life? Wells in all the wrong places, no room for a trash can, and a setup that leaves your back aching by last call. This week we are joined by six-time international bartending champion and founder of Studio Bar Magic, Tobin Ellis, who has spent over two decades fighting to fix exactly that. So tune in as we discuss his theory of "zero-step bartending," why the bar is the true engine of any restaurant, and how getting real bartenders involved in the design process can save your body, your guests, and your bottom line. In addition, we chat about his new book, Bar Design Essentials, which offers practical guidance for everyone from barbacks to architects. Dungeons of Highball: Get Tobin's Book: Learn More: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42379310
info_outline
13 Generations of Distilling w Marko Karakasevich | Bartender at Large ep 509
08/04/2026
13 Generations of Distilling w Marko Karakasevich | Bartender at Large ep 509
This week we are joined by Marko Karakasevich, 13th generation master distiller and owner of Charbay Distillery. Since his parents founded the distillery back in 1983, Charbay has been quietly pushing the boundaries of American spirits, from hop-flavored whiskeys distilled from actual beer, to vodkas infused with fresh-picked fruit, to the highly anticipated gin he plans to launch in 2026. So tune in as Marko walks us through his one-of-a-kind approach to distillation, including his 32-fraction method, why he extracts with both water and alcohol, and the crucial roles that bottle shock and time play in developing flavor. In addition, we discuss the evolution of American whiskey innovation and how Charbay's experimental spirit may have paved the way for some of the bigger distilleries out there today. Learn More: https://charbay.com Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42287705
info_outline
Mastering Sake w Yoko Kumano & Kayoko Akabori | Bartender at Large ep 508
07/27/2026
Mastering Sake w Yoko Kumano & Kayoko Akabori | Bartender at Large ep 508
For too many bartenders, sake remains one of the most intimidating sections of the back bar, with confusing labels and endless categories making it hard to know where to even begin. Luckily, this week we are joined by Yoko Kumano and Kayoko Akabori, co-founders of the beloved Japanese beverage shop Umami Mart and authors of Everyday Sake: The Go-To Guide for Choosing, Pairing, and Serving. Together they have made it their mission to demystify sake and make it approachable for everyone, from curious first-timers to seasoned industry pros. So tune in as they break down how to navigate the category with confidence, from choosing the right bottle to pairing it with food and serving it in both modern and traditional settings. Umami Mart: Get the book: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42228460
info_outline
Tales of the Cocktail w Charlotte Voisey | Bartender at Large ep 507 XL Episode | Video
07/20/2026
Tales of the Cocktail w Charlotte Voisey | Bartender at Large ep 507 XL Episode | Video
This week we are joined by acclaimed spirits professional Charlotte Voisey, Executive Director of the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation, to talk all things Tales going into this year's gathering in New Orleans. With over 400 events packed into six days, Tales of the Cocktail has grown into the premier destination for industry professionals and cocktail enthusiasts alike, and Charlotte gives us an inside look at what to expect. In addition, Charlotte shares her thoughts on mentorship, staying curious throughout your career, and even some practical survival tips for conference week (extra socks and shoes, anyone?). So tune in as we celebrate the event that has spent two decades fostering connection, education, and community within the global bartending world. Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: PARTNERSHIP & BOOKING INQUIRIES: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42152615
info_outline
Celebrating Tales of the Cocktail w Charlotte Voisey | Bartender at Large ep 507 XL Episode | Audio
07/20/2026
Celebrating Tales of the Cocktail w Charlotte Voisey | Bartender at Large ep 507 XL Episode | Audio
This week we are joined by acclaimed spirits professional Charlotte Voisey, Executive Director of the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation, to talk all things Tales going into this year's gathering in New Orleans. With over 400 events packed into six days, Tales of the Cocktail has grown into the premier destination for industry professionals and cocktail enthusiasts alike, and Charlotte gives us an inside look at what to expect. In addition, Charlotte shares her thoughts on mentorship, staying curious throughout your career, and even some practical survival tips for conference week (extra socks and shoes, anyone?). So tune in as we celebrate the event that has spent two decades fostering connection, education, and community within the global bartending world. Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: PARTNERSHIP & BOOKING INQUIRIES: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42152160
info_outline
Talking Whiskey w William H. Macy | Bartender at Large ep 506 XL VIDEO Episode
07/14/2026
Talking Whiskey w William H. Macy | Bartender at Large ep 506 XL VIDEO Episode
This week we are joined by Academy Award-nominated actor William H. Macy, who many of you know from his iconic roles in Fargo and Shameless, and co-founder of Colorado's own Woody Creek Distillers, along with Denver bartender Sean Kenyon, the man behind the legendary Williams & Graham. While most celebrity spirit brands are little more than a licensing deal, Macy has been hands-on with Woody Creek since the beginning, championing their grain-to-glass approach in the Rocky Mountains. So tune in as one of Hollywood's most beloved character actors proves he is every bit as passionate about what's in the bottle as what's on the screen. Learn More: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42070050
info_outline
Talking Whiskey w William H. Macy | Bartender at Large ep 506 XL Episode
07/14/2026
Talking Whiskey w William H. Macy | Bartender at Large ep 506 XL Episode
This week we are joined by Academy Award-nominated actor William H. Macy, who many of you know from his iconic roles in Fargo and Shameless, and co-founder of Colorado's own Woody Creek Distillers, along with Denver bartender Sean Kenyon, the man behind the legendary Williams & Graham. While most celebrity spirit brands are little more than a licensing deal, Macy has been hands-on with Woody Creek since the beginning, championing their grain-to-glass approach in the Rocky Mountains. So tune in as one of Hollywood's most beloved character actors proves he is every bit as passionate about what's in the bottle as what's on the screen. Learn More: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/42065550
info_outline
Finding Romance in the Bar w Dani Brand | Bartender at Large ep 505 XL VIDEO Episode
07/06/2026
Finding Romance in the Bar w Dani Brand | Bartender at Large ep 505 XL VIDEO Episode
As bartenders, we have a front-row seat to the modern dating scene — every night, we watch hopeful patrons shoot their shot, and most of them could use some coaching. Which is why this week we are joined by Dani Brand, writer and New York City bartender whose recent InsideHook article, "How to Hit on a Woman at a Bar," has been making the rounds across the industry. So tune in, as she shares what she has learned from years behind the stick, from why buying a stranger a drink rarely works to why there is still no better place to meet someone than over a well-made drink. Read Dani's Article Here: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/41975705
info_outline
Finding Romance in the Bar w Dani Brand | Bartender at Large ep 505 XL Episode
07/06/2026
Finding Romance in the Bar w Dani Brand | Bartender at Large ep 505 XL Episode
As bartenders, we have a front-row seat to the modern dating scene — every night, we watch hopeful patrons shoot their shot, and most of them could use some coaching. Which is why this week we are joined by Dani Brand, writer and New York City bartender whose recent InsideHook article, "How to Hit on a Woman at a Bar," has been making the rounds across the industry. So tune in, as she shares what she has learned from years behind the stick, from why buying a stranger a drink rarely works to why there is still no better place to meet someone than over a well-made drink. Read Dani's Article Here: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/41961765
info_outline
Creating the Most Successful Liqueur in 50 Years w Tom Maas of RumChata | Bartender at Large ep 504
06/29/2026
Creating the Most Successful Liqueur in 50 Years w Tom Maas of RumChata | Bartender at Large ep 504
The creator of RumChata, Tom Maas, sits down with us to reflect on his remarkable journey from brand builder to published author. Tom shares the story behind his new book, Tastes like Money, offering an inside look at the business of building a beloved beverage brand from the ground up. He pulls back the curtain on the wins, the lessons, and the grit it takes to turn a dream into a product that fills back bars across the country. Whether you're a bartender, a spirits enthusiast, or an aspiring entrepreneur, Tom's insights are as memorable as the drink that made him famous. Get his book: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/41835245
info_outline
The New Rules of Dining Out w Adam Reiner | Bartender at Large ep 503
06/22/2026
The New Rules of Dining Out w Adam Reiner | Bartender at Large ep 503
Join us for a new perspective on the art of dining out with Adam Reiner, a James Beard Award-winning journalist who spent over two decades working in some of New York City's most celebrated restaurants, including Babbo, Carbone, and The Grill. Adam joins the show to discuss his new book, The New Rules of Dining Out, a book that offers practical, step-by-step advice on everything from soliciting recommendations from your server and tactfully sending food back to navigating wine lists and tipping like a pro . Adam also makes a compelling case for why hospitality is a two-way street, encouraging diners to "lean forward" and become more active participants in their own dining experiences . The conversation explores the cultural significance of dining out in America and how better communication builds trust between guests and staff, leading to more joyful meals for everyone involved. Get Adam's Book: https://www.amazon.com/New-Rules-Dining-Out-Restaurants/dp/0807185043 Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/41724155
info_outline
20 Years of Imbibe Magazine w Paul Clarke | Bartender at Large ep 502
06/15/2026
20 Years of Imbibe Magazine w Paul Clarke | Bartender at Large ep 502
On this week’s show, we sit down with Paul Clarke, Editor-in-Chief of Imbibe Magazine, to celebrate the publication’s 20th anniversary. Paul explains how Imbibe has thrived for two decades by rejecting rapid expansion in favor of independent, intentional growth. Together, they trace the evolution of the craft cocktail movement—from hazy IPAs to mezcal Negronis—and unpack industry challenges like brewery bankruptcies and wine tariffs. Paul also offers a peek behind Imbibe’s editorial curtain, revealing how human judgment guides their coverage of everything from coffee to cocktails. The conversation closes with a look ahead as Imbibe enters its third decade, balancing education with cultural storytelling. Get your free Perfect Purée Samples Here: https://perfectpuree.com/bal
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/41637495
info_outline
The Classic Cocktail Sessions w Toby Maloney & Emma Janzen | Bartender at Large ep 501
06/08/2026
The Classic Cocktail Sessions w Toby Maloney & Emma Janzen | Bartender at Large ep 501
Join us for a conversation with the James Beard Award-winning duo behind the new book, The Cocktail Sessions: Toby Maloney, award-winning bartender, and acclaimed author Emma Janzen. Toby draws on decades behind the bar to break down the fundamentals of classic cocktails, from the Daiquiri and Old Fashioned to the Negroni and beyond, revealing how small adjustments in balance, texture, temperature, and technique can transform an everyday staple into something truly memorable. Emma brings her signature clarity and storytelling to the discussion, explaining how their collaborative process distills professional wisdom into pages that feel like sitting down for a session with a master bartender. Together, they explore why there is no single right way to make a great Martini or Mai Tai, and how home enthusiasts can learn to trust their own palates. Tune in for a masterclass in classic cocktails that is equal parts education, inspiration, and pure joy. Link to book: Free Perfect Puree Samples: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/41572905
info_outline
Celebrating 13 Years of the Rochester Cocktail Revival w Chuck Cerankosky | Bartender at Large ep 500
06/01/2026
Celebrating 13 Years of the Rochester Cocktail Revival w Chuck Cerankosky | Bartender at Large ep 500
Join us for a conversation with Chuck Cerankosky, the restaurateur and visionary founder behind New York State's only annual weeklong spirits festival, the Rochester Cocktail Revival. Chuck takes us inside the festival's remarkable 13-year journey, from its 2014 launch with 2,000 attendees to a powerhouse event drawing more than 21,000 guests and featuring over 75 events across the city. He shares the story behind his acclaimed restaurant group—including Good Luck, Cure, Radio Social, and Jack Rabbit Club—and how those hospitality roots shaped the festival's community-first ethos. The conversation also highlights the impressive roster of industry luminaries who have graced RCR, from Dale DeGroff to David Wondrich to filmmaker Steven Soderbergh. Beyond the drinks and parties, Chuck discusses the festival's deep commitment to giving back, having raised more than $310,000 for Cancer Support Community at Gilda's Club Rochester. Tune in for an inspiring look at how one passionate entrepreneur built a cultural institution that celebrates craft cocktails, drives economic impact, and puts Rochester on the national spirits map. Learn More: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/41494270
info_outline
Celebrating 13 Years of the Rochester Cocktail Revival w Chuck Cerankosky | Bartender at Large ep 500
06/01/2026
Celebrating 13 Years of the Rochester Cocktail Revival w Chuck Cerankosky | Bartender at Large ep 500
Join us for a conversation with Chuck Cerankosky, the restaurateur and visionary founder behind New York State's only annual weeklong spirits festival, the Rochester Cocktail Revival. Chuck takes us inside the festival's remarkable 13-year journey, from its 2014 launch with 2,000 attendees to a powerhouse event drawing more than 21,000 guests and featuring over 75 events across the city. He shares the story behind his acclaimed restaurant group—including Good Luck, Cure, Radio Social, and Jack Rabbit Club—and how those hospitality roots shaped the festival's community-first ethos. The conversation also highlights the impressive roster of industry luminaries who have graced RCR, from Dale DeGroff to David Wondrich to filmmaker Steven Soderbergh. Beyond the drinks and parties, Chuck discusses the festival's deep commitment to giving back, having raised more than $310,000 for Cancer Support Community at Gilda's Club Rochester. Tune in for an inspiring look at how one passionate entrepreneur built a cultural institution that celebrates craft cocktails, drives economic impact, and puts Rochester on the national spirits map. Learn More: Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/41494365
info_outline
The History of the Ramos Gin Fizz | Bartender at Large ep 499
05/25/2026
The History of the Ramos Gin Fizz | Bartender at Large ep 499
Join us for a deep dive into the frothy, fragrant world of one of cocktail culture's most legendary creations as author John Shelton Reed joins the show to discuss his book, The Ramos Gin Fizz. John traces the fascinating history of this iconic New Orleans libation, from its invention at the Imperial Cabinet Saloon in 1888 to its reign as a Crescent City institution requiring the synchronized effort of "a dozen bar hands" shaking in rotation. He unpacks the lore behind its eccentric creator Henry C. Ramos, the exacting technique that demands a full twelve minutes of shaking, and how the drink became a political touchstone during the Huey Long era. The conversation explores why this notoriously labor-intensive cocktail has captured the imagination of bartenders and drinkers for well over a century. John also reflects on the role of specialty drinks in defining a city's identity and how the Ramos Gin Fizz endures as a symbol of New Orleans' unique spirit. John's books: _____________________________________ WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/41415330
info_outline
A Life in Beverage w Zane Lamprey XL Episode | Bartender at Large ep 498
05/18/2026
A Life in Beverage w Zane Lamprey XL Episode | Bartender at Large ep 498
Join us for a conversation with Zane Lamprey, TV host, spirits expert and author once dubbed by The Washington Post as having "the greatest job in America." Zane takes us behind the scenes of his career journey, from traveling the world drinking with locals on his hit shows like, "Three Sheets," and "Chug", to performing stand-up in over 100 cities a year at breweries across the country. He also opens up about his surprising creative pivot toward animal-themed content, his viral YouTube videos, and even his recent legal battle over his cat Scooter's surgery—which he plans to turn into comedy gold. Beyond the laughs, we discuss his charity nonprofit, his apparel brand, and the art of reinvention in an ever-changing entertainment landscape. Check out his website: Watch his Amazon Prime comedy special, Ski Patrol: Watch his Amazon Prime comedy special, Medium Club: Buy his book: _____________________________________ WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large: FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: Bartender at Large:
/episode/index/show/bartenderatlarge/id/41281260