About the Show
The Spirited Advocate Podcast brings together leaders in the distilled spirits industry to discuss pressing issues of the day. The spirits industry is comprised of so much more than alcohol producers– its farmers, manufacturers, distillers and more here in the U.S. and around the globe. Host Chris Swonger and his guests explore it all while enjoying their favorite cocktail or distilled spirit.
Interested in being a guest on the show? Email us at [email protected].
About the Host
With over 25 years of experience in the public and private sector, representing elected officials and three diverse, global consumer goods companies, Chris Swonger has led integrated corporate affairs strategies with responsibility for public affairs, international government affairs, corporate reputation management, corporate communications, brand public relations, philanthropy, social responsibility policy and programming with distinction.
Chris serves as the President & CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States and Responsibility.org. DISCUS is the leading voice for distilled spirits in the U.S. market and serves as the industry’s advocate in state capitals, the nation’s capital and foreign capitals around the globe. Funded by leading distillers, Responsibility.org leads the fight to eliminate drunk driving and underage drinking and promotes responsible decision-making regarding beverage alcohol.
Spirited Advocate) Episode 50: Victoria Russell and Dia Simms
On this episode, Chris Swonger is joined by Victoria Russell, the Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Beam Suntory and Chair of the DISCUS DEI Committee, and Dia Simms, CEO of Lobos 1707 and Co-Founder of Pronghorn! Together, the trio discuss how the spirits industry can create a more inclusive environment. Hear what shifts Victoria and Dia have already noticed during the course of their careers – plus the pair give advice for those looking to build a more diverse company, brand, or distillery.
Spirited Advocate) Episode 49: Amanda Victoria of Siponey
On this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, CEO and co-founder of Siponey, Amanda Victoria, joins Chris Swonger to discuss the importance of sustainability in the distilled spirits industry. The pair talk about the rise of ready-to-drink beverages, what inspired Amanda to start Aperitif Hour, a cocktail, wine & spirits communication and education company, and her journey from bartender to brand founder.
Spirited Advocate) Episode 48: Ian Smith, Chair of the Keepers of the Quaich
Ian Smith, Keepers of the Quaich Chair, joins Chris Swonger on this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast to speak about the rich tradition of producing scotch whisky and the importance of celebrating those within the industry. Plus, hear about Chris’ induction into the Keepers of the Quaich, as well as interviews from his visits to several distilleries in the gorgeous Scottish countryside.
Spirited Advocate) Episode 47: Lora Hemy of Roe & Co Irish Whiskey
Lora Hemy, Head Distiller at Roe & Co in Dublin, joins this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast to discuss her unconventional path to distilling Irish whiskey with Distilled Spirits Council’s President & CEO, Chris Swonger. Plus, hear about the new Golden Age of Irish whiskey and how Roe & Co is blending history with innovation.
Spirited Advocate) Episode 46: Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley
Paul Wesley & Ian Somerhalder played brothers on the CW hit 'The Vampire Diaries' for nearly a decade. Now they're leveraging the powerful bond into a masterfully crafted spirit. Listen as they talk about their chemistry, distillation process, importance of sustainability, and the many places where they draw inspiration.
Spirited Advocate) 45. Kat Hantas and Sarika Singh of 21Seeds Tequila
From a kitchen creation to a spirits shelf staple in nearly all 50 states. Kat Hantas and Sarika Singh, two of three co-founders of 21Seeds Tequila found their sweet spot in an industry with considerable barriers to entry. Find out how on this week's episode. Listen now!