Spirited Advocate Podcast: Episode 10) Breakthru Beverage with Danny Wirtz
Vice Chairman of Breakthru Beverage Group Danny Wirtz joins the Spirited Advocate Podcast to bring a wholesaler's perspective. He discusses how the spirits industry must maintain responsibility as the market evolves, his family-owned and operated business and his new role as the chairman of WSWA.
Spirited Advocate Podcast: Episode 9) A Toast to Diageo’s Deirdre Mahlan
In one of her last interviews as president of Diageo North America, Deirdre Mahlan reflects on how the spirits industry has changed over the years and looks forward to all the great things to come. From trends in the marketplace to Deirdre's accomplishments and their favorite drinks, host Chris Swonger covers it all while toasting to a new chapter after Deirdre's retirement. (Note: Deirdre Mahlan officially retired on June 30, 2020.)
Spirited Advocate Podcast Episode 8) Bourbonism: Congressman John Yarmuth
Congressman John Yarmuth (D-Ky.) – co-chair of the Congressional Bourbon Caucus – joins host Chris Swonger to talk all things bourbon, including its mystique and what "Bourbonism" means. The two also touch on the negative impacts of tariffs, the need for economic relief for craft distillers and current events.
Spirited Advocate Podcast: Episode 7) Jim Canepa: Turning Ohio’s Liquor Division Around
Host Chris Swonger is joined by Jim Canepa, superintendent of the Ohio Division of Liquor Control, to discuss how he took the state’s distilled spirits operations from “dumpster fire” to one of the best control states in the nation. David Wojnar, DISCUS vice president of state government relations, also joins to dig into the long – sometimes complicated – relationship with Ohio’s Liquor Control.
Moderation & Responsibility at Home
For those adults who choose to drink, they should do so in moderation and responsibly at all times – even when at home or over virtual experiences. Here are some tips to keep in mind while spending more time at home.
Spirited Advocate Podcast: Episode 6) E-Commerce and the Spirits Industry
As COVID-19 has forced consumers to find new ways to enjoy their favorite spirits in the comfort of their home, consumer demand for online sales in the industry has grown. Chris Swonger speaks with president and co-founder of Reserve Bar, Lindsay Held, to see just how e-commerce has been impacted and what the future of the spirits industry looks like.