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 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!
Spirited Advocate Podcast) 44. Jeff Weiss of StepToe
On this week's episode of the Spirited Advocate podcast, DISCUS Chief of Public Policy Christine LoCascio takes the reins as host for an important episode on supply chain challenges with Jeff Weis, Partner and Supply Chain Team leader at StepToe. How will these challenges impact consumers this holiday season? Listen now to find out!
Spirited Advocate Podcast) 43. Travis Barnes and Nick Ladig of Hotel Tango
From a school bus in Indiana to the front lines to a distillery named Hotel Tango, our guests this week took an exciting path to get where they are today. Travis Barnes, Marine Veteran and Founder of Hotel Tango, joins the podcast alongside his childhood friend, Nick Ladig, President of Hotel Tango, as we commemorate Veteran's Day this month. Listen now!
Spirited Advocate Podcast) 42. Alex Alvarez of Brown-Forman
From water to soil to grains, our environment affects every part of the spirits industry. At Brown-Forman, sustainability is key to their longevity. This week on the podcast, we welcome Alex Alvarez, Chief Production and Sustainability Officer at Brown-Forman, to discuss Brown-Forman's ongoing commitment to protect the world and the people and employees who inhabit it. Listen now!
Spirited Advocate Podcast) Episode 41. Dr. Joy Spence of Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum
It's not hard to love your job when you're Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum's Master Blender - and this next guest has been in the rum business for 40 years! This week we have the pleasure of speaking to Dr. Joy Spence, the industry's first female Master Blender. Dr. Spence, or "Auntie Joy " as her Appleton colleagues refer to her, tells us about how her love of science and chemistry landed her at Appleton Estate and her ongoing pursuit of the perfect blend. Listen now!