Music and Booze With Mo

Episode 215: Episode 215 - Josh Harris

Mo Herms — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Josh Harris is not only the founder of the Bon Vivants, a spirits marketing and trade advocacy agency, as well as the owner of internationally recognized cocktail bar Trick Dog and the new casual Quik Dog, but a San Francisco native giving back to his hometown. We spent a while reminiscing about his days developing his skills at legendary SF spots like Postrio and music oriented Pier 23, and cheating his way into hospitality (things in SF were still pretty loose back then!). He took all of that into Trick Dog, even sharing his love of music with an early vinyl only menu, and he continues to innovate spirit free cocktails and the thinking around them. Check out his playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4ow0XpRNXP7V3ICvGTVvrO?si=9Pq-A5wOQl2YLFOQVPvw7w

Episode 214: Episode 214 - Nathan Ehrenfeld

Mo Herms — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Nathan Ehrenfeld is a partner in the music services company Beta Petrol as well as Laurel Canyon Spirits, blending his passion for music and spirits in everything he does. He's played guitar in a lot of bands, and moved from NYC to LA in order to break through doing so. Agnes Gooch in the mid '90s got him some spins, and currently his band Midnights can be found gigging around LA. When he's not on stage, he's behind the scenes crafting vodka and coffee liqueur, and running that music supervisions (and more!) business. He even made us a playlist which you can listen to here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/79Tylj7YODU1wY2jqq1eT6?si=MeZ7Y8Z8TyyOnRNVNwgOJg

Episode 213: Episode 213 - Bo Counts

Mo Herms — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Bo Counts is the owner of Pinpoint in Fayetteville, Arkansas, a place where you can have a delicious craft cocktail and play pinball. After his years as a house DJ, he found himself working in other areas of the entertainment industry and his travels introduced him to great drinks and bars all over the country. This inspired him to bring something like that, but with his own spin, to Fayetteville. Of course, the playlist is on "point" and he still enjoys crafting a mood with music as much as working with his team to create great cocktails. To get a sense of what a night at Pinpoint sounds like, check out this playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4DGVfMPb78bGU2cZq5VfrJ?si=dzXdy4UhT0mIglTHYq98_A

Episode 212: Episode 212 - Brandon Berkel

Mo Herms — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Brandon Berkel can be found mixing it up at James Beard nominated Van Atta in Telluride, Colorado. The spot just turned a year old, but Brandon has been crafting cocktails for a while now, spending time in St. Louis and later Nashville, honing his chops at Attaboy. Prior to that, he could be found selling merch at shows for his screamo and metal band friends, until he wound up on stage playing bass on the Warped Tour when the original bassist dropped out. It's all about creating community in his mountain town these days though, making playlists and drinks for his guests. Check out his playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/200yt3w28HX4TEKzq8WLFa?si=s6zhhUWESFO_hLvsKdmyBA

Episode 211: Episode 211 - Kitty

Mo Herms — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 20:52:33 +0000

Kitty is the Beverage Babaylan of NYC's deliciously devilish hideaway, Paradise Lost. Years after getting their start in a classic New Jersey dive bar catering to college students and recent graduates, they took their love of crafting cocktails and respect for their Filipino heritage across the river to eventually be part of the opening team for this special spot. They also filled the playlists up with ska and punk and so much more, all of which is a far cry from the violin and piano lessons of their youth. Check out their massive Paradise Lost playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5jf5zmEkxvvkoXaSvnrVDi?si=-IN2iHWRQpCUYYOsMu6Zcw

Episode 210: Episode 210 - JP Hunter

Mo Herms — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0000

JP Hunter remembered visiting tiki spots when he was a kid growing up in LA, and so when he retired from the construction biz in Texas, he figured the time had come for him to open one up there. His bar, 4 Kahunas in Arlington, TX, has become the third space he always dreamed of hosting people in. It's also a place where he can indulge in his deep love of exotica and oldies as it creates the perfect mood for those drinking his tropical libations.

Episode 209: Episode 209 - Hayze Webster

Mo Herms — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Hayze Webster is both the bar manager and rum manager of the legendary old school tiki palace, Hala Kahiki Lounge, in River Grove, Illinois. From his start in sports bars by Wrigley Field to crafting in speakeasies like Untitled Supper Club Chicago, he always had a deep love of tiki drinks and enjoyed the art that surrounded the scene. As he taught himself the tropical stuff via Beachbum Berry's books, he landed his spot in tiki history by getting his dream gig and learning more about rums than he ever expected to. He stopped teaching himself the keyboards but may still pull out his mixer to get some synth grooves going and indulge in his love of pop divas, or some chopped & screwed jams (which he would love to play in the bar some time). Check out Hayze's Groovy Daze here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/27kqOAdnw3ZxQpzGC0vaqX?si=yErkpnv-SV-ua1HPrrYB-Q

Episode 208: Episode 208 - Nick Pikounis

Mo Herms — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Baltimore native Nick Pikounis is the bar manager and beverage director of the tropical rum bar Pink Flamingo. It's surprising that someone who learned craft cocktails at a spot that wouldn't allow the use of citrus would now commandeer a place that revels in them - and he steered them right into a James Beard nomination. He also loves DJ culture, making some attempts in the electronic world after a brief childhood stint in clarinet and piano. Listen to his Baltimore B-sides mix here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2A6ZkL5zjVQYst1rg5jfjo?si=nPbOkBnpRI2sC70_Dg5o0A

Episode 207: Episode 207 - Michael Cobb

Mo Herms — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 07:00:00 +0000

After years of working in hospitality within the Disneyland environment (hello Club 33!), Michael Cobb found himself opening up a little tiki bar smack in the middle of Santa Barbara's wine country. High Roller Tiki Lounge, located in Solvang, CA, is a tropical oasis in a small Danish village where you can catch rockabilly and surf bands booked by Michael, who also throws shows in Vegas and crafts his own spirit - Bettie Page Rum - made in Ventura, CA. Check out his playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1A1vgERlWlUj1Npgy6F6K4?si=A8Xq-Q-2RS2_1UbCMS44PA

Episode 206: Episode 206 - Osman Cortave

Mo Herms — Mon, 25 May 2026 23:49:10 +0000

Osman Cortave opened up Loma Bar in Providence, Rhode Island, with his bartender wife and twin brother. It was a dream they all shared and worked hard to make a reality, creating a inclusive space that serves up great cocktails and Latin vibes in an intimate setting. Their earnestness has earned them Tales of the Cocktail and James Beard notice, and the first cocktail Osman ever served was to bar legend, Dale Degroff. Osman also helms the music in the space, creating a mood of Latin crooners and jazz which has proven appealing to all who sit inside to imbibe. Check out an example of the tunes you can hear at Loma here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3DBXTpTOMHGpbhDFmwcf6A?si=ZxB6x9FST1C3hXW0QQuJFg

Episode 205: Episode 205 - Demi Natoli

Mo Herms — Mon, 11 May 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Demi Natoli made her way to her current role as National Beverage Director at Nashville based Call Mom (which includes Dolly Parton inspired bar White Limozeen, The Spare Room Hollywood, The Mountaineering Club Seattle) after kicking things off back home in Miami at spots like Kreepy Tiki and even being recruited to serve at the legendary Lost Lake in Chicago. Her Miami time even saw her booking punk & surf bands for Kreepy Tiki while plunking away at the guitar for her own entertainment, and moving to Nashville just gave her an even deeper appreciation for country music as well as contributing to the cocktail culture that was just starting to grow when she got there. Check out her nostalgic Kreepy Tiki mix here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3CrNj8RFlSp9Malbso2jPS?si=W7D6fzIdQj69aZ1jmND3VQ

Episode 204: Episode 204 - Mike Anders

Mo Herms — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 16:16:46 +0000

Mike Anders currently tends bar at the James Beard nominated spot the Elbow Room, established in 1970 in Vancouver, Washington. When he got into bartending, he was content to just pour shots and beers, but keep finding himself in places that experimented in creativity and he went along for the ride. Now crafting beautiful drinks is just second nature to him, so working in a cocktail dive bar is the perfect place to be. The Elbow Room also places a high premium on albums, which works great for Mike since he has thousands of records he brings into the spot to help set the mood. Check out some of his favorite long plays via this Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2d91jHMHK8fe9LST6OYwfx?si=o2jKnbXeSNWhBkiEwnHS7w

Episode 203: Episode 203 - Minakshi Singh

Mo Herms — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Minakshi Singh started bartending at events and parties and fell in love... but legally, she couldn't bartend in an actual bar. It was the '00s in India, and despite that obstacle, she forged a career in the spirits industry and opened several bars. Starting with Cocktails and Dreams Speakeasy, she followed with Sidecar (awarded as one of Asia's Best), The Brook, The Old House (in Nepal) and the later cofounded the India Bartender Show, creating the premiere gathering for bartenders and spirits folk in the nation. (Women are now allowed to work in bars in several Indian states... but not all!) Live music plays a big part in her venues, and she loves to rock. Check out her playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/43XOfGjnoKvsRlxvhah8hk?si=_349LflpTO63rWQOaN1P6w

Episode 202: Episode 202 - Nathan Elliott

Mo Herms — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Nathan Elliott can be found behind the bar at Scotch Lodge in Portland, Oregon, which just racked up James Beard semifinalist nomination but has been deeply appreciated by its community since opening in 2019 (Esquire magazine has already recognized it as one of their best bars as well). Nathan got into bartending the old fashioned way - trying to support his music habit. From his start playing in a No Doubt cover band in junior high, he made it all the way to LA and an official music industry break playing bass and singing with the group National Product. Once the tours ended, he stopped just picking up shifts and went for the full time bar thing, mastering craft cocktails and letting the music become a beloved hobby. Rock out with him here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/55WvNsHNR8JEn8FVTKBJ9d?si=guRfyMnVSq-z5psFvx8a2w

Episode 201: Episode 201 - Ricky Ramirez

Mo Herms — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Ricky Ramirez didn't mean to own a bar, it just kind of happened. And even though he sort of wishes he took a little more time diving in, The Mothership in Milwaukee, WI seems to have done ok, racking up a James Beard Semifinalist nod this year. Ricky grew up with religious parents in the Latin community so screaming in metal bands and becoming a bartender was not really an expected outcome (or was it?), but after pouring too many craft beers he switched to craft cocktails and created an inclusive community space for his neighborhood. Check out his playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1GwK1VgttSQWOcF1uDKKJY?si=meAp7hT3QriH3XDHiRSBMw

Episode 200: Episode 200 - Billy Weathers

Mo Herms — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Billy Weathers is bringing community to both the music scene and the cocktail scene of Des Moines, Iowa. He opened The Contrary just over a year ago after visiting craft bars in places like Chicago and San Diego, and decided his town deserved something like that. His vision has just earned the space a James Beard semi-finalist spot for best new bar. Billy also performs hip hop as B. Well, and continues to play a part in supporting local music and art, determined to bring the citizens of his town more culture to enjoy. Check out Billy's Listening Hour (and some of his music too!) here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3rB2vS8wPLh3OVGQKawpCl?si=9VzTZ9TySTyBLfaKxFI45A

Episode 199: Episode 199 - Abigail Gullo

Mo Herms — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Abigail Gullo, who you can find leading the program at New Orleans spot Loa, kicked off her bartending career in her native New York, where she trained (and drank) under some of the masters of the mid aughts. After honing her skills at Fort Defiance, she realized her other career onstage acting and singing was possibly behind her (although she's still ready of the opportunity arises!). She made her way to New Orleans, where she landed at the Commander's Palace family and moved to the award winning Compere Lapin, picking up several accolades along the way for herself. Check out this playlist of the songs she sings along to behind the bar: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5XLX1r8vpWOaNs52gYefs7?si=COmBvRThTEGAfcmxXI7uVQ

Episode 198: Episode 198 - Charlie Lehman & Cosmo Soto

Mo Herms — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 21:52:47 +0000

Charlie Lehmann & Cosmo Soto bartended in a variety of Sydney, Australia spots (from local dives to crafty speakeasies) before they had the opportunity to become owners of two music centric cocktail joints: Ramblin' Rascal Tavern and Double Deuce Lounge. They became the top selling spot for cognac in the country while also providing live tunes to their community, certainly haven't shied away from having some cheeky fun with their drinks, and provide some of the best playlists in town. There are many colorful characters in both the Aussie music and booze scene, and these two have some great stories about that and more! Then check out their Ramblin' Deuce playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1MBVg6ZQwU9xSmffOvvD5E?si=SVqU1sViQOKGRkK3GZFSDQ

Episode 197: Episode 197 - Damien Cavicchi

Mo Herms — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Damien Cavicchi is owner of Jackson, Mississippi's legendary music spot Hal & Mal's as well as the speakeasy tucked away nearby, The Walk In. Although he isn't a trained bartender (his calling is to be the chef), he did put those culinary skills to use when crafting the spirit free cocktails for The Walk In. Likewise, he dabbled at guitar and fronted a band in his younger days, but his love of music is still an integral part of him and now he channels it into playlists for the bars. Check out his Mezcal Morning music here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/20FWIdbXJemvLobgHSx0OB?si=LVtRVvUbTomPjxqeBsz-3Q

Episode 196: Episode 196 - Alex Howard

Mo Herms — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Alex Howard, owner of Martha My Dear in Nashville, thought he was going to go into the music industry but got bit by the bartending bug instead. He came from a family of music creatives, and he went to college to study the music business himself and become a mover and a shaker. To pay the bills he got into hospitality, and the longer he worked in it, the more he loved it. From learning the basics at Ruby Tuesday and fine tuning his skills at Attaboy, he made the leap to ownership with a spot named after a Beatles Song and his mom. Ease into his indie stylings with this playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6dj7gHkVNeUwNqLlyhsoKk?si=NIoQ309dSuSLlfbI70ndkg

Episode 195: Episode 195 - Hannah Spear

Mo Herms — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Hannah Spear, bartender at Chicago's Bisous, started playing violin when she was 6 and thought that was going to be her entire life. After years of training and the highs and lows that come with an intense musical existence, she needed to take a break. Enter bartending. Now the craft of making cocktails has her performing for Chicago's drinkers, playing with terroir, reversing martinis, and drinking sherry with jazz. Hear how she balances life at Bisous while restoring her love of violin on this episode, and check out her professed drama queen styled playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/18vOkhghn90s5tBOoDNwQn?si=bMg6gYjuTkuXd3FLiHGNXw

Episode 194: Episode 194 - Lou Bernard

Mo Herms — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Lou Bernard currently serves as the beverage director for Mita in Washington DC, applying his skills to the drinks at this James Beard nominated (and Michelin Guide) vegan Latin restaurant. He's been involved in the DC scene for years though, proudly bringing the flavors and inspirations from his Latin upbringing to the bar and introducing the area to Singani. He was recently named one of Punch's best new bartenders of 2025, and he's known to sling some drinks named for hip hop tracks while blasting rock en español. Check out his Latin Vibes DC style playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/25Je5BHIPWBiQ6X4eFm8k3?si=3AG3JPPVQhOntO6BGvqjKg

Episode 193: Episode 193 - Danny Garcia

Mo Herms — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 07:07:35 +0000

Danny Garcia bartended in the Midwest and the Southwest, and when Lady Jane came calling, he made his way to Denver to join the team. Now serving as the spot's assistant general manager, Danny talks about his love for rums and his current obsession with Billy Joel while not forgetting his childhood fascination with swing music and playing saxophone. He learned something from each space he worked at, and he brought all of that knowledge to the acclaimed Lady Jane program. Check out his nostalgic mix here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0bbM0IyGZUHkShNiN8MRne?si=sA9AWAUERsKzkxSm3y4CAA

Episode 192: Episode 192 - Alexandra Kuechler Caffall

Mo Herms — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Alexandra Kuechler Caffall returned to her hometown of Portland, OR after having been part of the NYC cocktail scene, spending years at Fort Defiance, and now behind the bar at Too Soon. She moved around the music world too, playing several instruments and leading worship groups when she was young, then ditching that to head into opera and direction of musical experiences. We talk the philosophy of music and the craft of the playlist as well as the cocktail in this freewheeling episode. Check out her playlist for mixed company here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7KdTkgBW3qxlI91Z98iw5k?si=TOoE1RluS6Cyn-vKkzXx6A

Episode 191: Episode 191 - Judd Finkelstein

Mo Herms — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 00:31:58 +0000

Judd Finkelstein - known as The Fink, which is also the name of his award winning cocktail bar in Napa Valley - has been a drinks scholar from an early age, digging up classic recipes to try out on friends when they were still more about beer bongs. He even formed the Friends of Ardent Mixology (F.O.A.M.) decades ago, creating a community of like minded folks who enjoyed learning about all things spirit related. And he was a radio DJ by the tender age of 17! There are a lot of fun stories for you in this one, and he selected some great music for you to drink with as well: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0AP6BbezcRO9KGf3qYgYKI?si=l3fqIvfxSUmnd8cOA7snHQ

Episode 190: Episode 190 - Cristian Salazar Diaz

Mo Herms — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Cristian Salazar Diaz went from the bar scene in Fresno to combining his culinary training and bartending skills at Trader Sam's at Disneyland, and now can be found at The Lucky Tiki, located in both West Hollywood and Highland Park, CA. He accidentally found himself in the tiki world and went at it with gusto, later applying molecular experimentation into his mixing and enjoying the community and culture that goes along with the lifestyle. It's a long way from his grungy skater days as a drummer, but he still loves that music as much as he loves his tiki life. Check out his playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4qgSWVWG08Ql25BODVQxHV?si=MG88UPseSdixnikATBd-MQ

Episode 189: Episode 189 - Cesilia Berumen

Mo Herms — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Cesilia Berumen took the long way to her current role as the general manager at The Golden Tiki in Las Vegas, having a full career and family already in place before relocating to the desert playground about 20 years ago. That major life change also put her in the managerial world of hospitality before she decided to take a step back into bartending, and eventually landed her in an immersive tiki world that is showy in a way that only Vegas can really pull off. Although she doesn't play her flute or violin or banjo anymore, she still loves music and knows how to handle the big names that pass through, like the Backstreet Boys during their Vegas residency! Check out her chaotic sing-a-long playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7wttQNZM85wxuyIhVUZFAQ?si=RV7IBEhNTP67CqVdpTP10w

Episode 188: Episode 188 - Ryan Jones

Mo Herms — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Ryan Jones is relatively new to the tiki cocktail scene, but he admired it from afar for a long time before he had the opportunity to be a part of it. Growing up in a formerly dry county in Kentucky, he taught himself how to make tiki drinks and drove hours to find specific ingredients. This all paid off when he got a job at the revived Don the Beachcomber bar in Tampa, FL, and then moved on to the tiki speakeasy, Morgan's Cove, after Don's was destroyed in a hurricane. He didn't bring his drum kit with him when he moved, but his band days are not quite behind him! Get to know Ryan and check out his beach punk playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/15AkasmcH69k6U91xHboiR?si=PTVp86cJTuuk-XNHInzwmQ

Episode 187: Episode 187 - Suzanne Navarro

Mo Herms — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Suzanne Navarro teamed up with her business partner to open a tiki bar in Maui, Ester's Fair Prospect, after she realized she didn't want to have a boss anymore. Before that, she bounced around Bay Area dive bars, did a stint at Miami's Sweet Liberty, and got her rum education in Chicago at Three Dots and a Dash. But the islands were calling, so she picked up her guitar and crossed the ocean to land in Maui to make her dream of opening a tiki bar come true. They survived the pandemic, have a lovely local following, and have become a stop for tiki aficionados traveling through the islands. Check out her island music here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0OrNAhbfMC9oOhs6r5zowo?si=4w-qqM5rR7WOI8Bri3fQow

Episode 186: Episode 186 - Tommy Milburn

Mo Herms — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Tommy Milburn fell in love with tiki when he was a kid on vacation in Hawaii, and became a bartender to support his other creative endeavors but always checked in with tropical bars wherever he was. A musical theater kid in Canada who played piano and grew up to run off to L.A. to be an actor, he eventually decided to embrace the dream of buying a spot in Gili Trawangan, Indonesia, and open up his bar, Tiki Grove. Authentically decorated in classic tiki decor, he offers traditional tiki drinks as well as home grown aloe to soothe the sunburns of those wandering up from the beach. Now that's hospitality! Check out his tropical tunes playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3UkjLcu5wx9S4IssVvgw4S?si=Lu01VY73QpqqjyjPPgu1VA

Episode 185: Episode 185 - Erica Luera

Mo Herms — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 03:47:35 +0000

Erica Luera brought her witchy tropical vibes to the world renowned Strong Water in Anaheim, CA and is currently serving as their bar lead. She used to visit the legendary tiki palace Bahooka in Rosemead as a kid, about the time she was learning how to play violin. She graduated to working in dive bars and playing the guitar, and during the pandemic, she deeply dug into the craft of tiki drinks which eventually earned her a spot at the James Beard nominated Strong Water. She also crafts a spooky sexy playlist, which you can check out here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7BBNIp9p3de0CUKdY5TEla?si=f_po_im1TAK6Axu214h6ww

Episode 184: Episode 184 - Valentino DeMartini

Mo Herms — Mon, 26 May 2025 19:53:24 +0000

Valentino DeMartini was actually already behind the bar when he was a teen, barbacking and perfecting the martini for his family's bartending service. He started playing guitar around that time as well, inspired originally by emo but then embracing the country music of his youth. These days you can find him shaking things up at LA hotspot Donna's in the Echo Park neighborhood, while his twangy band Caravan 222 (originally formed in Chile) plays around town to an enthusiastic audience. He mixes up some music (including his band and solo stuff) here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6uPWXhO7xFTaC2D0sg1X0Q?si=I5KOrFT7TRONgSkQQA8TGg

Episode 183: Episode 183 - Dylan O'Brien

Mo Herms — Mon, 12 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Dylan O'Brien, owner of Oakland's Prizefighter, is a born and raised East Bay kid who always appreciated the farm to table approach of the Bay, and made that a part of his bars (he also owned SF's Bloodhound). Back in the day, he sang in vocal groups and still plays guitar, but shockingly has never done karaoke despite his singing skills! He started off working in wine, but a friend showed him that he would be much happier working with spirits (especially that "weird tequila") and he now not only oversees his bar, but also a diverse bottle shop next door. And this playlist proves he knows how to warm a crowd up for the night: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4t21rwXkkGi9VbiMZIjBIr?si=zdT9FM10S32JKH8lNhFxiQ

Episode 182: Episode 182 - Aaron Post

Mo Herms — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Aaron Post, owner of Valkyrie, St. Vitus, & Maestro (in the summer of 2025) in Tulsa, OK, started off in wine and fine dining but his joy of cocktails led him in another direction. His deep appreciation for hospitality and crafting drinks made him want to create wonderful and safe environment for others - be it a speakeasy or a dance club - and he's followed that passion in the city where he says you can do just about anything. Evidently, that included learning accordion as a kid and graduating into classical and electronic music as an adult, never losing a passion for any kind of music that makes people smile. Check out his emotional rollercoaster of a playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/72ysngg3wdc3zpDI0rfefv?si=D8k5qJzcRGGK5fD-xNRuvA

Episode 181: Episode 181 - James Lawrence

Mo Herms — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 20:46:10 +0000

James Lawrence can be found mixing delicious cocktails at the tiny Kansas City, MO speakeasy, Swordfish Tom's. Music is important to a place named in honor of Tom Waits, but so is community, which is something James understands deeply. Whether it's the community of an intimate cocktail space, or the musical communities in the jam band and jamtronica scenes, James enjoys cultivating enjoyable environments for others to share an experience in. He loves this so much he left his role in the wine world to be able to have bartending as a permanent side hustle along with a flexible daytime gig! He also made a groovy playlist for us: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0AAWk8xmFfnskwSGPIZhgb?si=RYv9Zuo1SbSN5ahIAMXotA

Episode 180: Episode 180 - Caroline Pardilla

Mo Herms — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Caroline Pardilla started blogging in the aughts when Los Angeles was really just getting going with a craft cocktail scene, and that soon lead to a career in spirits writing. She is now celebrating the publication of her first book, Margarita Time, which allowed her to gather recipes and stories from the likes of agave aficionado Max Reis and global humanitarian chef Jose Andres, while keeping the recipes accessible to any home bartender. She also loves to make playlists for any occasion, and created a cha cha-licious midcentury vibe with this one: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/420P8SA2H3tEXWzLxPec4r?si=MQHu1V9_Rl-mYXJO_9gimg

Episode 179: Episode 179 - Sammi Katz

Mo Herms — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 07:01:26 +0000

Sammi Katz, who bartends over at The Rockwell Place in Brooklyn, doubles as an author who just published her second book. This one, Spirited Women: Makers, Shakers, and Trailblazers in the World of Cocktails, goes all over the globe to talk to amazing women in the spirits industry and includes a recipe for each profile. We talk about Sammi's journey from actor to bartender to author and how she got more ladies behind the bar and on the playlists. Check out her Ladies mix here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2Q45iJGdxVOGIfJjsij9J4?si=-1VAxi0KTdSAWVRkMbolLg

Episode 178: Episode 178 - Hannah Withers

Mo Herms — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Hannah Withers is a caretaker of legendary Fayetteville, Arkansas spot, Maxine's Tap Room, which opened in 1950 and has a pretty incredible legacy. She (along with her husband, Ben Gitchel) has brought Maxine's into the modern cocktail age while maintaining its past and keeping it relevant into the future by creating legacy funds with the local university, supporting live music, and creating a new generation of craft bartenders.Hannah herself came from a family of musicians and it wasn't unusual for them to have bands crashing at their home when passing through town. Check out her Hannifesto playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3CFDNzeUUaggrXLJkHffj2?si=Jvxe9q7wQp6dQbI4ohngOw

Episode 177: Episode 177 - Ted Kilgore

Mo Herms — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Ted Kilgore fell for spirits hard - and he grew up in a lifestyle that absolutely forbade that type of thing. A mostly self taught bartender who started in a sketchy hotel, he read bartender books and followed the leads of cocktail legends to work his way up to eventual ownership. Now as co-owner of Planters House and Small Change in St. Louis, Missouri, Kilgore is able to marry his two big obsessions - spirits and Tom Waits - to create craft cocktail menus as well as the playlists to go along with them. Check out his Goin' Out West playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1JgoYggfz26dXcUsdGLQmS?si=6UbaKFPbRT2w9VvVCqxBvA

Episode 176: Episode 176 - Daddy Long Legs

Mo Herms — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Daddy Long Legs has bounced around Chicago, Alaska, and is currently in Salt lake City, Utah creating delicious cocktails and pastries: a love affair of two great tastes which taste great together! With culinary school behind him, this 2024 Imbibe Person to Watch has bounced between the kitchen and the bar and enjoys combining the two with a boozy dessert or a savory cocktail, just to keep things interesting. He's also been known to flow some great rhymes, having grown up with a Chicago house DJ dad and the ability to write lyrics for himself to share when the mood strikes him. Check out his Journey to the Iconics playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7p281ZZ39BmmbF8FOMUU8A?si=sl1PFUDqQU-x_il2y2bGNg

Episode 175: Episode 175 - Julio "Jules" Gutierrez

Mo Herms — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

During the pandemic, Julio "Jules" Gutierrez got inspired to make his own cocktails, like many of us did. His twist? He decided to create cocktails with the intention of teaching others about indigenous spirits, cultures, and music. The resulting pop up, Chuntikis, has taken him all over the United States as well as Mexico as he left behind a stint as a radio DJ in favor of touring with his drinks. This 2023 Imbibe "Person to Watch" educates his audience with thoughtful cocktails created through a tropical lense, which has taken him to interesting places, including a Savage Fenty photo shoot (he was the model). Check out the music that inspired both his cocktails and the pop up here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/02FCgB94cQsmzWOxxHpUaM?si=Gb_eeioOTfChej8HXImvEA

Episode 174: Episode 174 - Abby Ehmann

Mo Herms — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Abby Ehmann, owner and bartender at NYC's Lucky in the East Village, has wanted to own a bar since she was in college because she just loved spending time and fixing drinks in those spaces. Now she owns her "dive bar for grownups," which also features a jukebox curated to reflect the neighborhood over the years, featuring bands from the area, playlists representing bars and parties of years past, and more meaningful music to her patrons and visitors alike. We talk beer that tastes like beer and the glory of a good sing a long on this episode. Check out Abby's neighborhood playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5KN9eEDN97uaDMiAZ5LXRK?si=2Q71wTQkRb-C_RK-J8N__w

Episode 173: Episode 173 - Serena Kim

Mo Herms — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Serena Kim got bit by the hip hop bug early, and dove into the culture completely. So how did she wind up the co-owner of the Swift House Inn and the popular bar in it? After a stint at Jive Records (among several hip hop labels) and serving as the features editor at Vibe magazine, Serena took her turntables and pens to Middlebury, Vermont to take over the Swift House Inn and start Fancy Fridays at their bar, which has an acclaimed wine list and has become a cocktail stop in the state. She's educating her clientele about dance music, and created this amazing Dance Map playlist for us too: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1c7xS37d1aqjXK0wjLqP98?si=Y3aZ50BRT06LmMW6firG6A

Episode 172: Episode 172 - Cristina Allen

Mo Herms — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Cristina Allen is the cofounder of Volans Tequila and it's no lie to say that she rocks! Born and raised in Mexico, she brought her love of tequila to the US when she arrived to study sound engineering. She spent 5 years in LA working the boards at such legendary venues as the Roxy and the Troubador, and moved with her husband Chad to Boise where she took the reigns at the Knitting Factory. The pandemic caused her to shift gears and soon she & Chad were devoted to their other love - tequila! They now produce additive free and small batch tequilas, and yes, she still loves heavy metal and classic rock. Check out her playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4FfZ1mddfF8OvtiWby3jXa?si=0tLY2eSSSmmVorkI7mSTzw

Episode 171: Episode 171 - Ryan Abrams

Mo Herms — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Ryan Abrams takes us on a little tour of the bar scene in Birmingham, Alabama, where he is a part owner as well as beverage director of the classy cocktail spot, Paper Doll. He found himself becoming charmed by hospitality and the concert scene in his hometown, and those loves led him to becoming more involved in his community. If you come to his bar on the right night, you might find yourself helping to create the playlist. Check out the playlist he shared with us here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3nEAJdsMHp65UEoUwwCz2K?si=RByilcMBR5STSZZysW-2mw

Episode 170: Episode 170 - Dave Wondrich

Mo Herms — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Dave Wondrich is an acclaimed spirits writer and historian - Imbibe is a cocktail classic about mixology in the US - but his journalism career actually kicked off with music. As a bassist, he played in NYC's rock clubs and cabarets at the height of the city's edgiest musical era (late 70s early 80s) before heading to LA to try and get signed with his band, A Blind Dog Stares. That didn't happen, but he did educate his bandmates about scotch along the way. Listen to his tour stories, his path to becoming a leading authority on the bar scene then and now, and some of his music! Also check out his native New Yorker playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2o5uU83DMYzNzGbUWAPGuk?si=XAJzpIP6SoyR8WPpuXepuw

Episode 169: Episode 169 - Deke Dunne

Mo Herms — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 07:30:41 +0000

Allegory in Washington D.C. has received accolades from many of the world's most prestigious organizations, and beverage and creative director Deke Dunne is just part of the reason why. We chat about this bar based on a mural featuring civil rights activist Ruby Bridges, the vibrant D.C. bar scene, and the push to make hotel bars respectable again. Deke also gives some tips on how to sing in that Cookie Monster voice without destroying your throat, as he was a vocalist for a bunch of bands over the years (playing bass on an instrument he permanently borrowed didn't quite work out). Check out Deke's playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4tn3SzVn10MHzWAhA7CstN?si=4NjnShpPQ5W0FN3_KBPDGw

Episode 168: Episode 168 - Michael Aredes

Mo Herms — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Michael Aredes, currently at NYC's award winning spot Superbueno, has long worked and championed both bar and audio culture. He has presented a seminar on the link between the two and formerly poured cocktails at James Murphy's (LCD Soundsystem) bar Nightmoves. This former Punch Bartender in Residence came from a very musical family: Michael played many instruments and sang. Now he channels that passion into amazing playlists for his queer Latino pop up, Noche Traviesa, which travels around the country. Check out one of those playlists here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4nVBo0ZgROpByAp0UTYWNZ?si=8f52f3940ff04c4a

Episode 167: Episode 167 - Derrick Jones

Mo Herms — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 18:34:17 +0000

Derrick Jones drums in a couple of bands when he's not crafting wild garnishes for the immersive tropical Seattle spot Inside Passage, which lives tucked away inside legendary bar Rumba. Following in his father's footsteps, the Hawaiian native was banging on pots and pans before learning to play drums in all sorts of genres, and currently can be seen on various Seattle club and festival stages. When he isn't there, he's setting up shop not only at Inside Passage, but Rumba and Life on Mars too. He talks about the intense link between music and booze in Seattle on this episode, and picks some tunes for you to listen to as well: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4a8OoHgwX2LlCdFCHTvQ60?si=f2fde51527ec408a

Episode 166: Episode 166 - Austin Forshee

Mo Herms — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 07:22:25 +0000

Austin Forshee was a booze slinger in Kalamazoo and then found himself in Grand Rapids, Michigan as part of the opening crew of the celebrated tiki palace, Max's South Seas Hideaway. He went from muddled old fashioneds to training with the legendary Martin Cate, and now balances out all of that exotica with metal (which actually isn't all that uncommon). From banging on the drums to learning all the r(h)ums, Austin tells us how he learned to tiki and also get his Tommy Lee on. Check out his playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3NuKV8Vo8Y7wFP1KVjmj45?si=cc288188edb94e8b

Episode 165: Episode 165 - Kat Bailey

Mo Herms — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Kat Bailey, one of the general managers of the Tonga Hut (LA's oldest tiki bar), started mixing tropical drinks there in 2018 after years of slinging martinis alongside wanna be actors and crafting menus for karaoke bars. A lifelong Angeleno, Kat was going to the Tonga Hut years before she actually worked there, and was a huge fan of LA's 90s alt rock scene too, as her devotion to locals the Red Hot Chili Peppers demonstrates. Check out her Tonga mix here, because it truly had a bit of everything: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3yq2g5ZhdBgoWH8GsrMUbb?si=33be0f940e04448b

Episode 164: Episode 164 - Nick Elam

Mo Herms — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 07:11:17 +0000

Nick Elam was deep into the world of tiki long before he was even old enough to drink - carving, painting, and even designing bar menus waiting for the day he could get behind the stick himself. He also learned to play several instruments, even becoming a pretty good surf guitarist on the way. Now he can be found at Huli Huli Tiki Lounge in Powell, Ohio, brainstorming new drink ideas with his bar team and educating his patrons on the wide category of rum. He made us a pretty surftastic (and more!) playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1uYMjOZqJ2a8TkPD4BudYc?si=5ff51443db254fcf

Episode 163: Episode 163 - Maria Cabrero

Mo Herms — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 15:00:21 +0000

Maria Cabrero actually started bartending as a little girl... for her family! Now she is a co-owner of Cocomama Tiki Room in Cozumel, Mexico, one of several spots she currently or previously owned, including a beach front music venue. Coming from a house full of hosts and entertainers, you could say that bartending is in her blood, as was managing bands. She trained in Italy and brought that style of service back to Mexico, while immersing herself in classic tiki cocktail books so she could offer tropical drinks in her tropical paradise. Check out her Top 10(ish) playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/41S9I1sNeQvPt08cDRW1Lm?si=6726814066ae4898

Episode 162: Episode 162 - Michael "Skipper" Stelzner

Mo Herms — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 05:35:03 +0000

Michael Stelzner made the pandemic move to Cincinnati and started working at Tiki Tiki Bang Bang. Now he owns the place! A Bay Area kid born with a love of tiki culture and music, he worshipped the Beatles just as much as My Chemical Romance and his parents took him to legendary SF tiki bars as soon as he was legal. He did a stint at Omaha's Laka Lono Rum Club as well as a spot in Lincoln considered for a James Beard award, which made him put aside playing in pop punk bands for a bit. He discusses bringing tiki back to Cincinnati, DJing emo nights, LGBTiki, and more on this episode. Check out his playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4X9NuxAxDZ20ENEHJEBNsB?si=47a19a37578749a5

Episode 161: Episode 161 - Nikki Schultz

Mo Herms — Tue, 28 May 2024 06:18:13 +0000

Nikki Schultz of Los Angeles' Thunderbolt has found synergy in making music, crafting cocktails, and activism, which all have taught her lessons in how to give herself and others emotional space. (A revelatory stint in the funeral arrangement industry brought similar wisdom.) From her start in Minneapolis dive bars and music venues to a period creating drinks in a changing Seattle, she found herself arriving in LA to not only see what it could offer her, but what she could offer it. Turns out becoming part of an award winning bar team was just the beginning. Check out her playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3gokXIdRcj6SKdfQqhLfeR?si=5cb8772588634c3e

Episode 160: Episode 160 - LyAnna Sanabria

Mo Herms — Mon, 13 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

LyAnna Sanabria is the beverage director and co-founder of the first Puerto Rican bar & restaurant in Maine: Portland's Papi. We chat about the challenge of educating people about her culture and the ingredients that come with it, playing Nick Drake in a dive bar, and how her love of Chris Cornell touches a lot of what she does. Check out the music you'd here if you went for a ride with her on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6nnEVeQMowEGDFQszeCZn3?si=a2b0f2c0356a4d01

Episode 159: Episode 159 - Thomas Moore IV

Mo Herms — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 07:29:38 +0000

Thomas Moore IV started out chasing $1 tips at the Superdome, and now leads the drink program at the Elysian Bar in New Orleans. Part of the Turning Tables program (which gives opportunities to black and brown bartenders), he graduated from churning out beers to becoming a mentor as well as a competitive (and winning!) bartender. He also makes his own personal soundtracks which inspire his cocktail creations - the latter of which have won notice from Tales of the Cocktail for the Elysian Bar. Check out his Bartender's Menu Mix here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/498TMPLVScvHxebPR4qUBR?si=3675a845158f4784

Episode 158: Episode 158 - Claire Swenson

Mo Herms — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 20:46:37 +0000

Claire Swenson was a regular at iconic Minneapolis dive bar and music venue Palmers and eventually wound up on the other side, serving drinks to patrons who considered her "the new guy" for several years. Claire does online radio shows (sometimes from Palmers), plays the rubber chicken in a band, and dishes on proper dive bar etiquette (on both sides of the bar) while also teaching us about the weirder side of music. Check out her special l'il music mix for us here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/56mFLfMnJVKOBWehbEPPc7?si=9b4674a87f7d49cd

Episode 157: Episode 157 - Millita Gonzalez

Mo Herms — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 23:47:14 +0000

Millita Gonzalez grew up in a family of music bookers & club owners, so of course she started bartending at her dad's Latin dance club as soon as she could! (Her tales of conquering high volume crowds with only a blender are amazing.) She worked her way through Nashville and NOLA, catching the fine dining bug along the way and happily mastered craft cocktails. She currently leads the program at Asheville's Little Jumbo Bar, making playlists on the side... like this one that will keep you dancing: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2UWhpreySy1l9EAj1z73CX?si=8fd3ca9581b54cce

Episode 156: Episode 156 - Adri Ramos

Mo Herms — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 07:04:01 +0000

Adri Ramos is the bar manager at LA's Employee's Only and the founder of FLAG LA, a female led apprenticeship group to empower other women in the LA bar industry. She's a fan of moody vibes and great cocktails, and wanted to bartend so badly when she was young that she took classes before she was 21 just so she could get some practice! Her natural skills landed her in some of LA's most creative spaces and her love of music may have influenced some of her cocktail creations too. Check out her 13 hour (!) playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0UNGw8Pco1bW2mbzQoKZm0?si=1228206dd17f4b3f

Episode 155: Episode 155 - Sebastian de la Cruz

Mo Herms — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 20:49:42 +0000

Sebastian de la Cruz of Bangkok's Tropic City loves to create a vibe with both his cocktails and his playlists, as being a DJ has been as much a part of his life as bartending has. From his humble beginnings as a barback in Stockholm (his mom got him the job!) to being inspired by the NYC craft scene and then finding himself an expat in Thailand opening a bar in a burgeoning creative district of Bangkok, Sebastian has experienced a lot within the hospitality scene, becoming quite a musical mood maker along the way. Check out this sexy grooves playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7CWpCW9tvC7sAXcXK10dEu?si=3bd6fdb132b54a1e

Episode 154: Episode 154 - Ash Murray

Mo Herms — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 08:12:07 +0000

Ash Murray, head bartender and main playlist maker at Meteor in Minneapolis, talks their journey through the world of coffee into the world of spirits by jumping from one top tier destination to another, finally landing in a music lover's bar owned by musicians. Not one to shy away from a challenge, they applied those mood making skills to curating tunes for the bar and helped create a cozy community along the way. Check out their playlist (don't shuffle it!) here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3xU8S5sRUSjLMttA4Uxd8T?si=b28d574e874e42bf

Episode 153: Episode 153 - Nick Sinutko

Mo Herms — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

We're catching up with a previous guest, Nick Sinutko! He is currently a self proclaimed "mocktologist" (said very tongue in cheek) as he is leading the charge of n/a cocktails at Leucadia's Atelier Manna, and will soon also be creating drinks for skater Tony Hawk's latest enterprise, Chick and Hawk. Formerly the beverage director of San Diego's legendary Campfire, Nick is now crafting in a farm to glass style while still playing keyboards and finishing up a new album with his band Drug Hunt. (pic by Laura Arango) His Vol. 2 playlist is here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2Q0M1hrNFeqjNyEeeBvS0J?si=59f021601e5d4be0

Episode 152: Episode 152 - Han Suk Cho

Mo Herms — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 08:10:11 +0000

Han Suk Cho composes music and alcohol free cocktails, passionately pursuing perfection with both. Her n/a contributions to the beverage menu at Kato in Los Angeles helped earn the spot a Michelin star, and she also has her own line of alternative sodas, Zero Proof. Han studied music composition at university in her home country of Korea since she already played several instruments, starting at the age of 3. Everything she does is about creativity and emotional expression, from her chamber pieces to her drink pairings. Check out her past life playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4ZGxqLUXYDKIjntn8f8VDm?si=da550d6d9ece4f02

Episode 151: Episode 151 - Siobahn Jones

Mo Herms — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Siobahn Jones is a queen at creating vibes musically and a speed demon behind the bar conquering a massive cocktail menu at Standby in Detroit, Michigan. While she hasn't started her DJ training (yet), she's been going to concerts since she was 4 and is the one to go to for any kind of playlist. In the drinks world, she uses those same creative skills to craft crowd pleasing cocktails. Check out her Top 10 ( we took it to 11) here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4eOESDt9EAdqhF9rwJ9iS4?si=2863f9d0cf4c44c0

Episode 150: Episode 150 - Cara Devine

Mo Herms — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Cara Devine gives us the strong, sweet, & bitter (that's the name of her book!) story about her behind the bar (that's the name of her You Tube channel!) experience around the globe and at her home bar Bomba in Melbourne, Australia. There's also a lot of reminiscing about our club days and all the music that involved. Listen for lots of laughs on this one! Get behind the music with Cara here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5VHSPBWE8Z8wKQFDKE87vx?si=377c55b919c947b1

Episode 149: Episode 149 - Heath Gorenflo

Mo Herms — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Heath Gorenflo was a straightedge punk drummer forever, touring the US and playing the club circuit. When that lifestyle got old, they figured they'd sling rum & cokes to get by. Now they're at Baltimore's Dutch Courage, love bartending (and drinking in moderation), & are drumming again with a couple bands. Check out their story of musical and cocktail evolution, and this massive playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5RVNHMznmCiDetL7gNyxK6?si=644e52f2f7ae42c0

Episode 148: Episode 148 - Geoffrey Wilson

Mo Herms — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 07:40:58 +0000

Geoffrey Wilson bartends at Cane & Table in New Orleans to maintain his DJ & mentoring lifestyle. He's been bartending notably in Chicago, Phoenix, and Portland but it's his work with Turning Tables NOLA that he's most proud of - an organization teaching black & brown hospitality professionals the tools for success. When he's not doing that, he's providing the soundtrack to events around town and is still an avid vinyl collector. Check this playlist of some of his favorite 45's at the moment: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7DxdouK4txBsIjzQ9Nf0XA?si=674ef266f022425b

Episode 147: Episode 147 - Jerrold Khoo

Mo Herms — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Jerrold Khoo started bartending to pay for design school and support his hard rock band, but eventually he took those talents and became the cofounder of one of Asia's best bars with Stay Gold Flamingo in Singapore. Although his hair metal days are behind him, he applies the rock and roll aesthetic to the bar and might even be creating a supergroup with the other musicians in Singapore's bar industry. Check out his powerballad collection here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6Pz4Ke2NlajRQzZafwOYFP?si=171b531d3ce74fcd

Episode 146: Episode 146 - Andrew Whibley

Mo Herms — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Andrew Whibley, bartender and co-owner at The Cloakroom in Montreal, wouldn't call himself a DJ but he definitely spun hip hop records at parties and today oversees the musical mood at his bar (often lauded and listed as one of the world's best). His amari, bourbon, and beats obsessions have led to him making a Gin & Juice for Snoop Dogg, the creation of a soon-to-debut Cloakroom Amaro, & an upcoming new bar! After you listen to the podcast, go into the Cloakroom with Andrew on Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3UpkwMF1P550NgYyRNzFP5?si=55ef723faab3412b

Episode 145: Episode 145 - Garret Richard

Mo Herms — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 07:31:10 +0000

Garret Richard, co-author of the book Tropical Standard and Chief Cocktail Officer at Brooklyn's Sunken Harbor Club, has taken technique to a whole new level. On this episode (his second appearance on M&Bw/Mo!) he breaks down how the once lowly blender achieved superstar status, the cultural relevancy of vaporwave, the importance (and fun) of bar theatrics, and what xanthan gum can do for you. Check out his musical standards here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1WQ4EMkkEXzAvzwv5guphb?si=a470f3f76254479e

Episode 144: Episode 144 - Cheyenne Serene

Mo Herms — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Cheyenne Serene, bar manager of acclaimed New Orleans tiki bar Latitude 29, was once a bike messenger in Chicago but traded that for swampy NOLA dives. Their love of emo once drove them to pick up a guitar, but they were better at ukulele and tropical cocktails. We chat about meeting your heroes, managing your vices, and getting deep into lofi beats on this episode! (pic by Jon Peterson) Check out Cheyenne's playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3WVyEx1kw5xFpyUo4RwLIJ?si=7b785d2e585b475d

Episode 143: Episode 143 - Brandon Grilc

Mo Herms — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Brandon and Kimberly Grilc moved to Kobe, Japan and soon realized they really missed tiki bars... so they opened their own! Brandon tells us about their labor of love, The Kazan Room, one of four tiki bars in the country. He discusses the challenge of erratic deliveries, curating the perfect musical mood, the inclusion of fun local ingredients, and educating the clientele in everything from rum to exotica. Check out the Sounds of the Kazan Room here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6VqGKtGImo0mkjmwbpCQzX?si=1d955961347b43bd

Episode 142: Episode 142 - Alexis Romero

Mo Herms — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Alexis Romero got his bartending start in his hometown of Tijuana, but eventually crossed the border to show San Diego what he could do. In TJ, he and his friends booked death metal shows. Now in SD, he creates electro beats. Find him making tropical magic at Mothership and on the bartender competition circuit! His cocktail inspiration playlist can be found here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3lNMI44213D9vSQ1VdizBm?si=cff699af23814063

Episode 141: Episode 141 - Cory Starr

Mo Herms — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Cory Starr got his tiki on bartending in Hawaii, took his skills to Chicago's Three Dots & A Dash, & then moseyed his way to Austin to become the beverage director of the incredible Tiki Tatsu-Ya. He tries plays metal when his daughter isn't demanding Bad Bunny. Check out his zombified playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4n1VsKmrlh81Gi6yWmzq7y?si=3f53a227d1d54a0b

Episode 140: Episode 140 - Jen Ann Tonic

Mo Herms — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Jen Ann Tonic took her retro lifestyle and love of tiki cocktails and partnered up with her husband to bring Swizzle and Dallas Tiki Week to life in Dallas, Texas. Growing up in the Bay Area with a family that danced hula during the swing revival definitely influenced her taste in tropical beverages, and she decided that the south could use a bit of aloha. Check out her swingin' playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4j9EjbJujO3DVR6qXnDiy5?si=e335c8bacb424636

Episode 139: Episode 139 - Meghan Riggs

Mo Herms — Mon, 22 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

After an attempt to crack the into music industry in LA, Meghan Riggs went back home to Boise, Idaho to a much more entertaining & educational gig as a shot girl at a dive bar. Now she's crafting beautiful cocktails at The Modern Bar & Hotel, putting Boise on the cocktail map while contributing to a hip community and reminiscing over her emo days. Check out her playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2pCSSqfmA394QK1jV21NsV?si=8b05a99927c74725

Episode 138: Episode 138 - Steen Bojsen-Moller

Mo Herms — Tue, 09 May 2023 06:03:59 +0000

Steen Bojsen-Moller started bartending in Auckland before sailing through the Caribbean, landing in London, going back to the islands, opening a bar back home in New Zealand, crossing over to SF and the Future Bars group while DJing and booking entertainment in art galleries, heading down to LA to join ACME Hospitality, and now finding himself co-proprietor of two iconic Palm Springs spots: Seymour's at Mr. Lyons and Toucan's. There were so many stories along the way! And the Seymour's playlist is here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/14TsOI7Gth1FeVCVcDAwI1?si=17ab6b20b29644cb

Episode 137: Episode 137 - Chris Hannah

Mo Herms — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Chris Hannah stepped behind the bar at Arnaud's French 75 in New Orleans and became a bartending legend. He came to NOLA not only to work in these beautiful old places, but to live in a town where you could be anything you wanted to be, which for him meant a snazzy dresser, a blues connoisseur, and owner of spots Manolito and the award winning Jewel of the South. Join us as we travel the Mississippi for tales of juke joints, Robert Johnson's many graves, and the rebirth of classic cocktails in the South. Listen to Hannah's Blues here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2iDMl6WNhPueVKYJRIjBQo?si=3a778961ac9a41a2

Episode 136: Episode 136 - Remmington Pearce

Mo Herms — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 16:48:00 +0000

Remmington Pearce tends bar at Los Angeles music venue the Moroccan Lounge and is the guitar tech for L7, among other things. She's been a touring musician for over 10 years and fills in the blanks sneaking in craft cocktails when people ask for them. She also swears by the healing properties of Malort. Check out her playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6PkJ7f9BwyD9L3mQT64500?si=4e9b937507ce4a9f

Episode 135: Episode 135 - Joey Houghtaling

Mo Herms — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Joey Houghtaling, beverage director at Nickel City in Austin, was a record store guy and pop punk guitarist in Milwaukee until he realized that it wasn't going to pay the bills, but bartending might. After years of learning from old school bartenders and brand ambassadors, he traded those midwest winters for Texas heat and now helps keep Austin weird with drinks inspired by MST3K and Lemmy from Motorhead. Check out his playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3KmVVCxXGm8WZeR4V5h65i?si=6d4f73715c904524

Episode 134: Episode 134 - Janice Bailon

Mo Herms — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Janice Bailon left her days of voiceover work and pop idol dreams in Hollywood to find her calling as a bartender in San Francisco. Despite being denied a post behind the bar due to her gender and stature, she worked her way into little dives and made it to the storied Bourbon and Branch before becoming the bar manager at For the Record in the Marina District. Instead of competing for American Idol, she now competes in beverage competitions! Check out the songs that define her here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3iWPLbc9YFypHkbpUEjiaf?si=67862413b20c4aa2

Episode 133: Episode 133 - Xandi Gray

Mo Herms — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Xandi Gray has learned much behind the bar at the family business in Houston, The Spot (and the Spot EaDo). These lessons about community, culture, and self control are ones she applies to her musical career as she navigates her path to rising stardom in the R&B world. Check out her drinking songs (and some of her own music) here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3GHiN7w21i8GKGKmXIFZSv?si=165f460c92b14902

Episode 132: Episode 132 - Cale Brown

Mo Herms — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 08:03:12 +0000

Cale Brown fell in love with rum & decided that he was going to use his Junglebird afro tiki nights at Dovetail Bar in New Orleans to remind people of rum's origins - black and brown labor. His efforts already have him traveling around the country competing and educating others. Music goes back many generations as his family descends from one of the earliest jazz pioneers, NOLA legend Buddy Bolden, but Katrina cut short his trombone lessons. Check out the music he's playing on the regular right now: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4OHOmcfFQsvm9dDgd1xHTf?si=2e918ccf9eca4c9a

Episode 131: Episode 131 - Ed Strohsahl

Mo Herms — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Ed Strohsahl runs the blenders (and more) at New Orleans Cuban style cocktail spot Manolito, but he has also spent a lifetime playing bass both for fun and for a living. As a 10 year old, he probably never guessed that his bass playing would take him all over the world, and as a twenty something dive bartender, he didn't really think he would wind up learning craft at James Beard nominated Cane & Table. Check out his Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/73DwvngAqDMU3D2ooap2iI?si=571a533b2a904c17

Episode 130: Episode 130 - Rosey Mitchell

Mo Herms — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Like so many bartenders, Rosey Mitchell faked her way into her first job, but found herself at London's legendary Milk and Honey and now is the Drink Development Queen (that's really her title!) at Three Sheets in the Dalston neighborhood. She loves peaches the fruit as well as Peaches the artist and is looking for someone to write words to her guitar compositions, but can school us on armagnac in the meantime. She thinks you should know these songs: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0eq0httycq06WFXutqvyiR?si=6561c9e0fb5445ba

Episode 129: Episode 129 - Marina Ferreira

Mo Herms — Mon, 26 Dec 2022 22:21:20 +0000

Marina Ferreria, beverage director of San Diego's female led Botanica, talks about how her career had her bouncing from bar to bar across the country before landing at her current gin joint. She also comes from a family of amazing Brazilian musicians, so music has always figured into her creations. Check out her ultimate playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4c1JmiQ45d8IPkkYBXKyV9?si=04ba86c4c61a4a2f

Episode 128: Episode 128 - Joe Stinchcomb

Mo Herms — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 08:09:39 +0000

Joe Stinchcomb's adventures in the culinary world led him to curiosity about cocktails and soon he was a James Beard nominated beverage director. Now he co-owns Bar Muse in Oxford, Mississippi where he incorporates local produce into his drinks and hip hop rules the house. Fun facts: his first concert was Mystikal, and he also exists as a Lego figurine. Check out his musical muses here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5O2aDVhNN0TkGobNSh4fVy?si=1f1e0a57862d48dd

Episode 127: Episode 127 - Michael Kashey

Mo Herms — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000

A drummer, a veteran, and now a craft bartender, Michael Kashey represents for Mandan, North Dakota with Thomas & Moriarty's, which he also co-owns. Travel and a love of history led him to studying classic old cocktail books & recipes (yes, the place is named after classic bartender Jerry Thomas as well as Sherlock's nemesis) which he wanted to then tweak and share with his community. In his band days, he shared his music and passion for drumming while dressed like a chicken with his community too. Check out his music mix here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/66WEvGFpBc5JOBGgsqUVVe?si=fd21b4e0e4e84653

Episode 126: Episode 126 - Meaghan Dorman

Mo Herms — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Meaghan Dorman is a NYC cocktail legend who has been with the classic Raines Law Room (and the other bars it has spawned) since its inception while also inspiring and influencing bartenders around the world. But did you know that she also had a music internship that allowed her to be in the same room as Mariah Carey? She's very hands on with her bars' playlists too, and even made one for us: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5oZUPLJHTqF9i5gvfA5Zg7?si=77258309e38e44a6
Photo credit: Eric Medsker

Episode 125: Episode 125 - Kimberly Patton-Bragg

Mo Herms — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Kimberly Patton-Bragg (aka KPB) went from a Florida goth to a NYC musical theatre kid and landed in New Orleans, where she is currently the beverage director of Palm & Pine, as well as one of Imbibe's 75 to watch in 2022. She's got stories from the early NYC craft cocktail days and NOLA tales of debauchery, as well as a great love for Bob Fosse, all in store for you on this episode. Glorious goth playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4HQrJmVNkJuFcoqaEQLvrV?si=2d1f96ec42734117

Episode 124: Episode 124 - Aaron Hall

Mo Herms — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Aaron Hall had every intention of taking his college radio experience and making a name for himself in the music biz. Instead, bartending and music venues took hold and now he's a partner in the Portland fave (and nationally celebrated) spot, Hey Love. Check out his Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6h8jfsS5arBi330c0EPgIR?si=61293f26b098428b

Episode 123: Episode 123 - Roberto Lares

Mo Herms — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Roberto Lares got his first barbacking gig after he finished a night of playing trumpet in his jazz band and then offered to help the venue since they were down a person at the bar. Now he's mixing drinks at Houston favorite, Johnny's Gold Brick, making playlists, exploring his love of whiskey, and still loving jazz. He also gave us a 19 hour playlist to listen to while you chill out with a drink here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1Zn5tkjDK3ewCF984mudEj?si=7c3e83a1e4694895

Episode 122: Episode 122 - Andra "AJ" Johnson

Mo Herms — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Andra "AJ" Johnson - a self proclaimed "cassette DJ" - went from bartender to barowner by the time she was 30, and uses her platform to showcase the skills of black hospitality professionals while crafting some amazing cocktails. Her "whiteplatesblackfaces" initiative has become a force in the industry. Also, she used to play the French horn. (Pic by Reema Desai) Check her playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0QTlnqTV03klEFhvUKXQMd?si=57229c07197240bd

Episode 121: Episode 121 - Russell Gardener

Mo Herms — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 19:21:09 +0000

Russell Gardener, born and raised in Las Vegas and hospitality, was living his best life as a respected cicerone and doing the beer thing when he had the realization that he could ditch his savings and open a surf punk tiki bar instead. So he brought Red Dwarf into the world, showcasing his twists on tropical drinks and knack for booking rowdy bands. And he can still play his drum kit sometimes too! Check out the Red Dwarf playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5LUXliRfgjdos9hgdZED6a?si=fba0b826da1046a0

Episode 120: Episode 120 - Adam Demerath

Mo Herms — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 06:00:54 +0000

Adam Demerath, currently keeping tropical libations afloat at Brooklyn's Sunken Harbor Club, tells us about his tiki road trip and shares some of the tunes he listened to along the way. Hear how his time running beverage programs at classy cocktail bars and throwing elaborate home tiki parties landed him a gig at one of the best tropical spots in the U.S. And check out his rockin' road trip playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0FLCjo5cCRHxVdkKy0Gu73?si=a387ed092e9b4441

Episode 119: Episode 119 - Rodrigo Serrano

Mo Herms — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 07:31:31 +0000

Rodrigo Serrano worked at casino bars in Guatemala and later found himself in the Florida temple of tiki, the legendary Mai Kai. A move to Chicago landed him at a modern classic: Three Dots & a Dash, and its speakeasy, the Bamboo Room. But he isn't just about tiki, he truly loves the classics... be it cocktails or rock. Want some Pink Floyd with your negroni? He's got you. And he's got bar music for you too: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0vE5RpEzFSsZ235HmLVp8y?si=a378e9d2584f405b

Episode 118: Episode 118 - Kingston Chan

Mo Herms — Fri, 08 Jul 2022 07:08:12 +0000

Kingston Chan not only creates tropical goodness at Clifton's Pacific Seas, but his TikiTakeoverLA pop ups truly have taken over Los Angeles! Not only does he craft cocktails, but he crafts the playlists for his events too, highlighting queer artists to bring more visibility to his community via music and booze. Tune in to some of his special music picks here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 117: Episode 117 - Eric Lambright

Mo Herms — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 07:47:54 +0000

Eric Lambright, the lead bartender creating tropical drinks for Savannah's Bamboo Room Tiki Bar, also mixes the music for patrons - both tiki and not tiki. He's ready to educate anyone who wanders into the bar about the bountiful world of rums as well as homegrown hip hop. Fun fact: he once served Paul McCartney, and he once played tuba. Check out his Tiki Not Tiki playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 116: Episode 116 - Pasan Wijesena

Mo Herms — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 07:13:41 +0000

Pasan Wijesena, owner of Sydney spots Jacoby's Tiki Bar & Earl's Juke Joint, was part of the first wave of proper cocktail bars in his city and once created an entire menu inspired by Aussie legend Nick Cave. He tells us how Twin Peaks & tiki intersect, about his record store days, and how Australia came to love craft beer. Check out his massive playlist here:https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo?si=b5ae8d4bea8148d1

Episode 115: Episode 115 - Keli Rivers

Mo Herms — Fri, 27 May 2022 21:41:29 +0000

Informally appointed as a "ginnoiseur" and currently the Sr. Gin Ambassador for Beam Suntory, Keli Rivers has a vast knowledge of gin as well as a massive collection (which only rivals her record collection). Not only was she the first hire at gin temple Whitechapel in SF, but she also served as KALX, Berkeley's music director about the same time. Listen to the podcast for gin lessons, and her musical ones are here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1tCZ7wpbuAjc93urdPAimE?si=f25fd4fbd8fa4c57

Episode 114: Episode 114 - Libby Lingua

Mo Herms — Fri, 13 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Libby Lingua started out pouring shots in clubs and has worked her way into creating the Tales of the Cocktail nominated bar, Highball, in Phoenix AZ , where she also happens to be the musical director. She did a stint with Sony Music and sharpened her crafting skills at tropical hideaway Undertow before embarking on her own consultation company and co-managing this sophisticated lounge. Check out her chillest grooves on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7JhuDTVCIFMILd1i6KVI7U?si=0241c4098f7943d7

Episode 113: Episode 113 - John Peet

Mo Herms — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

John Peet tells us his story about starting as a bartender in Cincinnati, winding through LA, and ending up as the bar owner of Jane's Hideaway in Nashville. Crafting cocktails, running a music venue, and rescuing a beat up piano are just some of the tales (the ghost of Boots Randolph?) we'll hear on this episode. And check out his Friends of Jane playlist, featuring acts that have graced the Jane stage: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 112: Episode 112 - Andy Holmes

Mo Herms — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Andy Holmes picked up a guitar when he was 11 after being inspired by The Wonder Years, & has been making music ever since. He makes cocktails too (at Philly's Martha and also the International Bar) and loves to have fun with Hennessy. And Negronis. And mezcals. We'll hear one of his tracks, and you can oscillate musically with him here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 111: Episode 111 - Aaron Sparks

Mo Herms — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Aaron Sparks - bartender, entrepreneur, & self professed band nerd - talks about his flirtation with music production before realizing he was already deep in the hospitality world. He moved from passing out music swag in Akron, Ohio clubs to starting his cocktail catering company, MXOLOGY21. Check out his playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7tZGepyYp2aNXxDGo7pDQz?si=7868103729fb4cdb

Episode 110: Episode 110 - Tracie Franklin

Mo Herms — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Whiskey advocate and creator Tracie Franklin has graced many a stage with her beautiful voice, and many a bar with her whiskey knowledge. She shares her wisdom about the whiskey industry, her goals towards BIPOC visibility within that industry, & traveling the world singing and dancing. Her songs that evoke emotions live here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/77VArltDKHfBpNmb73ff3P?si=0ed46eb3d03b4e73

Episode 109: Episode 109 - Kelso Norris

Mo Herms — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 05:55:33 +0000

Kelso Norris, beverage director of LA's Genever (nominated for 2022's Outstanding Bar Program by the James Beard Foundation), guides us through her years of becoming a bartender while fronting a band in NYC during the heady '00s resurgence of both craft cocktails and indie rock of all sorts. Stay tuned to hear a track from her previous band, Una Lux, and check out her playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4vlueHyqBcAQmTUEs6bFTk?si=bbe01877e7d14c94

Episode 108: Episode 108 - Xavier Sumter

Mo Herms — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 08:17:26 +0000

Xavier Sumter speaks and sings on this episode, about the myriad of instruments he studied before deciding that maybe his voice was the favorite, and picking up bar skills all the way from Baltimore to his current gig at Chicago's Nobody's Darling. We talk inclusion, community, and all the singers who have (and will!) inspire his cocktails. Check out his playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 107: Episode 107 - Tiffanie Barriere

Mo Herms — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 16:00:00 +0000

Tiffanie Barriere, aka The Drinking Coach, represents for the South and more. She made an Atlanta airport bar (One Flew South) an international destination and sensation, and now finds herself educating others not only on how to make cocktails, but the history behind them as well. She also crushes at karaoke. (pic by Gregory Miller) Check out the songs she's loving right now: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 106: Episode 106 - Marlene Olarra

Mo Herms — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 16:00:00 +0000

Sticking around home for this episode, hablo con Marlene Olarra, a native Angeleno who is running the bar at Highland Park's Nativo in East Los Angeles after a stint at the highly regarded Faith + Flower, braving the elite in Beverly Hills, and learning some basics from bar legends. Oh, the music of J Dilla may have influenced a drink or two along the way. Find her playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo?si=2c746b58856f4178

Episode 105: Episode 105 - James Horn

Mo Herms — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 08:37:31 +0000

James Horn is both a veteran of Philly's punk scene (his ex bands include the Tough Shits & The Whips) & legendary spot Tattooed Mom, where everybody knows your name... and probably your band. Between living in a rock 'n' roll party house and landing his dream bar job, he's got some stories to tell. Check out his soundtrack to your night out here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4cWulf8Ae74ng32J2pxe1s?si=dfda2cd5904d4592

Episode 104: Episode 104 - Feizal Valli

Mo Herms — Fri, 24 Dec 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Feizal Valli's bartending past was full of strippers & gangsters, his present is about closing his award winning bar in Birmingham, Alabama (the Atomic Lounge) for his future new place, The House of Found Objects. Music went along for the ride - R.E.M.'s Mike Mills got behind his bar, & Elvis was key in Atomic's success. Check out Feizal's found music here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2Qq77QaWX7740nGOCaTHh9?si=8dff0845dbfc4d32

Episode 103: Episode 103 - Todd Daigle

Mo Herms — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Bassist and bar manager Todd Daigle, of Littleton, Colorado's Palenque Cocina y Agaveria, tells us all about the European punk tour circuit, mezcals he loves to sip, and why he named his puppy after a Rancid song. And stick around to hear a track from his current band, Egoista! His sippin' tunes here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 102: Episode 102 - Dottie Deville

Mo Herms — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 08:36:16 +0000

We're back in a bar! Dottie Deville not only owns San Diego's legendary dive, Til Two Club, with her husband, but she also creates the musically themed drink menu and is a pretty popular burlesque dancer too. She can shake her cocktails and her ta-tas! She regales us with tales of ghosts, dangerous bands, and having a grandma in the burlesque biz. Check out her Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 101: Episode 101 - Alli Patton

Mo Herms — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 05:01:32 +0000

Alli Patton of Birmingham, Alabama's Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar balances bartending & music journalism after being inspired by the movie "Cocktail" and her deep love of Dolly Parton. She's also made the playlist to her dream dive bar, "those beautifully unglamorous shelters from the storm," which you can find on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3iXKsIzsUquMLbwTUxaIU4?si=81ff31acd7164e40

Episode 100: Episode 100 - Greg Dulli

Mo Herms — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 08:25:37 +0000

Greg Dulli may be mostly known for his work with rock bands The Afghan Whigs & Twilight Singers, but he also co-owns a bunch of bars scattered around LA & New Orleans (The Short Stop, R Bar, & many more). He also happens to be a dear friend, & an inspiration for this podcast. What better person to be the 100th guest? Hang with us for a chill session about his days serving up drinks, playing dive bars, and making everyone feel welcome. (Apologies in advance for my ear shattering laughter.) His playlist? Drink with us! https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 99: Episode 99 - Michael Valladares

Mo Herms — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 08:00:00 +0000

It's the 4th anniversary of this podcast, so I ventured to my favorite bar in the whole world - The Hotsy Totsy of Albany, CA - and talked to co-owner Michael Valladares about the ideal neighborhood bar, the East Bay music scene, and tacos. A perfect martini, and tacos. Check out this very East Bay playlist too (as a former East Bay kid, I approve!): https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6LXzAfQ1JeU7IvzSC4WG03

Episode 98: Episode 98 - Ben Torres

Mo Herms — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Ben Torres of Charlotte, North Carolina's Vintage Whiskey & Cigar Bar is pretty sure he was pulled up onstage during a Red Jumpsuit Apparatus show to play keyboards during their first song a couple decades ago. He's definitely sure about some whiskeys you must try, playing in a piano bar to bachelorette parties, & how to improve the "Charlotte palate." Check out his schizophrenic playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 97: Episode 97 - Adhel Martinez

Mo Herms — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Adhel Martinez left her long time gig at LA's Black Cat when the pandemic shook things up for bartenders & made her way south to San Diego's Tahona & Polite Provisions. We talk murder ballads, cumbias, & all things agave on this episode. Her daiquiri & shots playlist is here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0sds2Q7j4Vo5h7dupl6sni?si=cbc775c25fef409a

Episode 96: Episode 96 - David Muhlstein

Mo Herms — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 08:00:00 +0000

David Muhlstein, the Captain of the Captain's Cabin and Hula's Modern Tiki in Phoenix, Arizona, loves some pop punk and tiki cocktails. We talk about how he wound up on the cover of a Blink 182 album, falling deep into the tiki and tropical drink scene, and writing songs about girls. Check out his Covid comfort tunes here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 95: Episode 95 - Luigi Hernandez

Mo Herms — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Luigi Hernandez, bar director of Mexico City's Waikiki Tiki Room and co-founder of Tikilha Mugs, loves tiki cocktails, plays ukulele, and blends Mexico's rich cultural history with his tiki aesthetic. He's been working in bars since he was 15 and totally schooled me on Mexican rockabilly. He also has a fun playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 94: Episode 94 - Sam Miller

Mo Herms — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 07:15:47 +0000

Sam Miller, bar manager of SF's Pagan Idol, not only whips up amazing drinks and plays cello and raps, but he is also he is also making the world a more inclusive place. Hear about his non-profit B4.change, his love of Wu-Tang, bartending in Utah and playing hip hop in Wyoming on this episode. Playlist for revolution here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7d9VmyAqYET8GNuqqch1oI?si=3fbe405b8b8049b9

Episode 93: Episode 93 - Noa Laporga

Mo Herms — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 07:10:13 +0000

Noa Laporga, of Skull & Crown Trading Co. in Honolulu, tells us all about his local ghosts, being an indie rock kid in Hawaii, and the local island rums on this episode. Also, learn about his inaugural island weekender - Tiki In Waikiki! He also provided some jams to listen to: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7DxQ8i4FihDievBY9PmIb4?si=c0b59724631446dd

Episode 92: Episode 92 - David Perez

Mo Herms — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 07:09:44 +0000

We're off to the Lei Low in Houston to chat with bar director David Perez about Mexican rockers, falling in love with rum, and accidentally giving a drink a naughty name... Check his playlist: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 91: Episode 91 - Ryan Lotz

Mo Herms — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 07:13:11 +0000

Ryan Lotz, beverage director of Traveler St. Hospitality (Boston's Shore Leave & more), recalls his sexy marching band days with the saxophone & how he fell in love with tropical drinks. Dig his jazzy mid-century vibe and more with his playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1PXSy3TVoO7YvAeLJPnL2d?si=51f5c5dd08734a24

Episode 90: Episode 90 - Shana Race

Mo Herms — Fri, 21 May 2021 07:08:17 +0000

Bartender, musician, serial entrepreneur... Shana Race does it all! From her start in Baltimore dives to LA cocktail haunts, punk bands to stoner rock, online cocktail classes and so much more, tune in for all sorts of stories! And her desert rock playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0QeoJRKhnhxzR5Rfoz8KIR?si=c30479ba8a8d437e

Episode 89: Episode 89 - Jesse Hubbard

Mo Herms — Fri, 07 May 2021 07:08:33 +0000

Jesse Hubbard of Columbus, Ohio's Rye River Social, loves punk & has the war wounds to back it up. He's also taken his mixing skills to print with the book "Punk Rock & Cocktails," which pairs delicious drinks with rowdy records. Check out his playlist cuz it rocks: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 88: Episode 88 - Lauren Paylor

Mo Herms — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 07:29:09 +0000

Lauren Paylor serves us education (co-founder of Focus on Health), delicious cocktails (without alcohol!), social justice, & ukulele, all the way from Washington D.C.! Listen to her party tunes here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 87: Episode 87 - Shawn Lickliter

Mo Herms — Fri, 09 Apr 2021 08:18:53 +0000

Shawn Lickliter has some tales to tell about his country club bartending days in Tennessee, touring the country playing rock & roll, & working his way up to bar director of one of LA's favorite spots, République. And his playlist? Space Westerns, baby! https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 86: Episode 86 - Becky Harris

Mo Herms — Fri, 26 Mar 2021 08:16:38 +0000

Becky Harris is not only the co-founder & chief distiller at Catoctin Creek Distilling, she is also the president of the American Craft Spirits Association. We talk about their Gwar collab (because whiskey is METAL), an upside of the pandemic, & how Missy Elliott is our spirit animal. (pic by Revel Photo Co.) Playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 85: Episode 85 - Dr. Nicola Nice & TJ River

Mo Herms — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 08:14:00 +0000

Dr. Nicola Nice & TJ River brought their backgrounds in sociology & marketing to the spirits world with Pomp & Whimsy gin liqueur, spun up some fun mood music to go with it, & taught some history of women making cocktails centuries ago along the way. Playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 84: Episode 84 - Lynn House

Mo Herms — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 08:29:55 +0000

Lynn House, National Spirits Specialist & Portfolio Mixologist for Heaven Hill Brands, talks experimental musical theater, rhubarb & apple butter cocktails, and moving from the Chicago stage to the national one in the spirits biz. Also, Pat Benatar. Playlist here! https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 83: Episode 83 - Josh Davis

Mo Herms — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 08:07:40 +0000

Josh Davis, bar manager of Chicago's 16th Street Bar and founder of Brown & Balanced - an event program celebrating African American bartenders - talks his marching band days, cognac, & lifting up his community. Playlist? Right here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 82: Episode 82 - Maxwell Reis

Mo Herms — Fri, 22 Jan 2021 08:34:12 +0000

Maxwell Reis, beverage director at Gracias Madre in West Hollywood, master of all things mezcal, metal, & more, will tell us about ethically produced agaves, Magic the Gathering, & Cookie Monster voices. Check out his playlist, if you dare: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 81: Episode 81 - André Darlington

Mo Herms — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 08:24:12 +0000

Cocktail writer (and bass player) André Darlington has a book out called Booze & Vinyl so OF COURSE he had to be on the podcast! He tell us about great music & booze pairings, the madness of Beck, & his upcoming book, Booze Cruise. There's even a boozy playlist! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1p1Koa55w57WozquVjM5zo

Episode 80: Episode 80 - Mary Palac

Mo Herms — Fri, 27 Nov 2020 08:07:47 +0000

Mary Palac of San Jose's Paper Plane chats on the podcast about bartending with that competitive edge, her Filipino roots, must sing karaoke, & putting her city on the cocktail map.Spotify playlist? Of course!https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 79 - Chris Coy

Mo Herms — Fri, 13 Nov 2020 15:50:20 +0000

Chris Coy of the Inferno Room in Indianapolis talks tiki in Indiana, keeping the lights on during Covid, and what to listen to when you drink a Painkiller. Also, 100+ songs to you from him here:https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 78 - Eugene Lee

Mo Herms — Fri, 23 Oct 2020 15:11:10 +0000

Eugene Lee has spent 10 years at LA's modest & award-winning Big Bar serving up amazing cocktails, inspired experiences, & carefully crafted playlists. Sometimes all 3 happen at the same time! Tune in for indie rock talk & Hollywood tales. (pic by Genevieve Adams). Playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 77 - Yola Jimemez

Mo Herms — Fri, 09 Oct 2020 17:56:07 +0000

It's our 3rd anniversary & we're celebrating with amazing women & delicious mezcal! Yola Jimenez, 2nd generation mezcal maker, owns Yola Mezcal with Gina Correl-Agliette & musician Lykke Li. These fierce females also promote their own female centric music festivals (Yola Dia) & playlists via their newsletters. Check out the girl power here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 76 - Aaron Polsky

Mo Herms — Sat, 26 Sep 2020 00:32:24 +0000

Aaron Polsky (formerly Harvard & Stone, currently Livewire Drinks)is pure rock'n'roll: underaged drinking in swanky bars, capturing the best of bartenders in a crushable can, & playing electric guitar for his cats. Equally rockin' playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 75 - Nick Sinutko

Mo Herms — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 07:30:17 +0000

Nick Sinutko, bartender & wine director of Campfire in Carlsbad, CA, chats with us about modern psychedelia, the world of natural wines, & his band Drug Hunt. He also made quite the playlist: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 74 - Allan Katz

Mo Herms — Fri, 28 Aug 2020 07:41:36 +0000

What's more tropical than rum & reggae? Allan Katz started off in his hometown of NYC bartending with some of the best during the cocktail revival of the 00s, bounced through LA, & finally opened his dream bar, Jammyland, in Las Vegas. It's delicious, and so is his playlist: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 73 - Zan Kong

Mo Herms — Fri, 14 Aug 2020 07:06:56 +0000

On this episode, we go to Jamaica! We talk with Zan Kong, commercial manager for Worthy Park Estate, about Jamaican music, Jamaican beaches, Jamaican hospitality, & of course, Jamaican rum. Jammin' beach tunes here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 72 - Olivia Griffin

Mo Herms — Fri, 24 Jul 2020 07:06:29 +0000

Olivia Griffin, owner of Louisville's The Limbo, is our guest on the podcast & we breeze through a lot on this one: Politics & community action, opening a tiki bar in the heart of whiskey country, & the everlasting allure of surf music. Her funtastic playlist is here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 71 - Ian Burrell

Mo Herms — Fri, 10 Jul 2020 07:27:10 +0000

Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell joins the podcast all the way from London to talk about the politics of rum, impressing Quincy Jones, his new rum, Equiano, & how you should always drink with friends. We'll hear some of his music too! Playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 70 - Ayme Harrison & Annie Blake

Mo Herms — Fri, 26 Jun 2020 08:24:20 +0000

Ayme Harrison & Annie Blake, the women behind tropical bar Death or Glory in Delray Beach, Florida, talk about being a female owned business, having the most musical staff in town, and clown vomit. Really. Playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 69 - Rod Moore

Mo Herms — Fri, 12 Jun 2020 07:17:09 +0000

Rod Moore, member of surf band The Hang-Ten Hangmen & co-owner of Canada's Shameful Tiki Room, talks the Beach Boys and making the switch from selling hockey gear to creating a Polynesian pop escape (or two). Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 68 - Tad Carducci

Mo Herms — Fri, 22 May 2020 07:47:04 +0000

Tad Carducci, North American brand ambassador for Gruppo Montenegro, bar consultant, author, former bar owner, suave vocal stylist, tactical adventure sportsman, general maker of merry, & dear friend, joins us on the podcast for a real good time. Tippling tunes here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 67 - Kiowa Bryan

Mo Herms — Fri, 08 May 2020 07:28:31 +0000

Kiowa Bryan, national r(h)um princess of Spiribam (Rhum Clement, Rhum J.M., & more) chats about all things Caribbean (agricoles and calypso), hospitality nonprofit Another Round Another Rally, and her bartending and musical theatre days. Check out her way amazing playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0fneZQXQmPgFCfHJfCsyMT?si=fC31tn87TNuMQwE8L4IHrw

Episode 66 - More Music & Booze

Mo Herms — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 08:25:31 +0000

This special compilation podcast features past guests who have music available that you can listen to in lockdown. Since many bartenders are struggling to pay the bills while bars are shut down, consider buying some tunes (or donating to one of many bar related charities) to help our out of work bartenders. They've been there for us, now it's our turn!

Episode 65 - Kat Corbo

Mo Herms — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 07:30:32 +0000

2019 Speed Rack champion Kat Corbo has stories about her rock and roll promotion days as well as life behind the bar at The Study in LA, while teaching us a thing or two about St. Germain. She also made us a massive playlist to rock out to: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 64 - Music and Books

Mo Herms — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 07:01:17 +0000

This special compilation podcast features past guests who have books or blogs available for one to enjoy while the world is in lockdown waiting out the coronavirus. Since the bar industry is in tatters, consider buying a book (or donating to one of many bar related charities) to help our out of work bartenders. They've been there for us, now it's our turn!

Episode 63 - Mark Ferraro

Mo Herms — Fri, 13 Mar 2020 07:13:18 +0000

Mark Ferraro, bar manager of LA's legendary haunt The Dresden, talks on the podcast about modernizing a bar program in a historical joint while keeping the classics classic. Also, how to book music in a venue ruled by lounge stars Marty & Elayne! Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo

Episode 62 - Kraig Rovensky

Mo Herms — Fri, 28 Feb 2020 08:23:00 +0000

Kraig Rovensky - drink maker, drummer, tour manager & lead lumberjack of Seattle's Life on Mars - tells us some band in a van stories and gives props to Canadian booze. He also makes a pretty mean playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/53crKs68pG6eynJLQXx8tY

Episode 61 - Stephen Kurpinsky

Mo Herms — Fri, 14 Feb 2020 08:00:44 +0000

Stephen Kurpinsky, co-founder of San Diego's Bartender's Weekend (also Of George's By the Cove, Hundred Proof) chats about the Tijuana scene, making musical noise, revitalizing old bars, & creating community. Listen to this playlist when you're done with the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7oBkE7R9JHffifizVTveHd

Episode 60 - Konrad Kantor

Mo Herms — Fri, 24 Jan 2020 08:13:31 +0000

Konrad Kantor of Manolito (New Orleans) tells us about DJing electro classics, bartending trips to Cuba, & the metal bands you need to hear to melt your brain properly. He even made us quite the playlist! Check it here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/38Xm69LymT06rlRXFNSBxA

Episode 59 - Fraser Hamilton

Mo Herms — Fri, 10 Jan 2020 08:19:20 +0000

Fraser Hamilton, bar director of Miami's legendary Sweet Liberty, tells us of his magical sweet potato Painkiller, bad dancing, comedy Spanish, & the pursuit of happiness. He also made us a helluva mixtape here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6fOAXokXYG4K5F6KrbMomR

Episode 58 - Erin Rose

Mo Herms — Fri, 27 Dec 2019 08:31:03 +0000

Erin Rose, bar director for Colombia's Grupo Takami who can often be found behind the bar at Bogota's Black Bear, cumbias her way into our hearts while teaching us about being an US ex-pat crafting cocktail menus with distinctly Colombian ingredients. Spotify playlist? Por supuesto! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1RKS3IOwSmLT4T5JBGupde

Episode 57 - Anthony Schmidt

Mo Herms — Fri, 13 Dec 2019 08:56:19 +0000

If you've gone out for cocktails in San Diego, you've come across Anthony Schmidt. He's played big brother to speakeasies Noble Experiment, False Idol, & Raised By Wolves, kept it classy with Polite Provisions & Born and Raised, & put LCD Soundsystem lyrics on the walls at Craft & Commerce. Playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oLG7HOoaTTCjxjg459VbM

Episode 56 - Alastair Burgess

Mo Herms — Fri, 22 Nov 2019 08:10:22 +0000

Alastair Burgess (Happiness Forgets, Original Sin, Petit Pois) tells us about all night raves in the English countryside & London's Happiness Forgets - the spot he opened so he could have a cozy place to drink which wound up becoming one of the world's best bars. Spotify deliciousness here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7nFDI4Y79Wha7CE5jKeUvV?si=60cM7WkwQhehbFhETP487A

Episode 55 - Danielle Motor

Mo Herms — Fri, 08 Nov 2019 08:46:53 +0000

On this episode, Danielle Motor (Sunset Boulevardier, Chateau Marmont, Hungry Cat) explains crafting cocktails vs crafting cocktail experiences, & what it feels like to nail that "Careless Whisper" sax solo. Spotify fun here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7ulAfwaw0JFieioBzf5rIc

Episode 54 - Christoph Dornemann

Mo Herms — Fri, 25 Oct 2019 07:17:38 +0000

Christoph Dornemann of Arnaud's French 75 Bar in New Orleans (one of the best bars in the world, by the way) tells us about the fateful twists that got him where he is, & his dreams of making the funky violin a thing. Check out his funked up playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5e8fTO48yOS4qEbHgaAC4O

Episode 53 - Lynnette Marrero

Mo Herms — Fri, 11 Oct 2019 08:21:17 +0000

For our 2nd anniversary, we feature Lynnette Marrero: co-founder of Speed Rack, former musical theatre actor, veteran of the NYC cocktail scene, & recipient of the Tales of the Cocktail Mentor Award in 2019. Yea, she's pretty rad. Daiquiri time playlist! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7xUN9Ve4kvXabonkA48EfQ

Episode 52 - Dave Castillo

Mo Herms — Fri, 27 Sep 2019 08:29:07 +0000

Dave Castillo (Workshop Kitchen+Bar, Truss & Twine, 320 Main) talks to us about his band that never was, keeping bachelorette parties happy, & running two bars in Palm Springs. Also, he gave us a list of some of his favorite songs: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3VGYMUemBaAVddUvNyFjsX

Episode 51 - Claire Sprouse

Mo Herms — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 08:15:53 +0000

On this episode, we wander to Crown Heights, Brooklyn to meet with Claire Sprouse at her new bar, Hunky Dory, to talk about punk rock house parties, waste reduction in the food and spirits world, and (of course) David Bowie. (pic by Emily Arden Wells)

Episode 50 - Kelly Merrell

Mo Herms — Fri, 23 Aug 2019 08:12:28 +0000

Kelly Merrell of Disneyland's Trader Sam's joins us to wrap this tropical summer... He talks about the 90's OC ska scene, going from a Red Lobster drink slinger to tiki master, & how to survive a mosh pit. Check out the Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0c65ZR3mYEOmufNNq3tpgu

Episode 49 - Roberto Berdecia

Mo Herms — Fri, 09 Aug 2019 07:49:57 +0000

Roberto Berdecia, co-founder of Colectivo Icaro (co-owner of Jungle Bird & La Factoria in San Juan) talks with us about salsa, bringing new spirits to Puerto Rico, and bartending island style. Check out his Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5vLecQ7FXBfh3UHChQFCnL

Episode 48 - Sly Augustin

Mo Herms — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 08:17:24 +0000

Sly Augustin of London's award winning tiki den Trailer Happiness talks to us about being rum-bunctious (yep, we made up a word), community & responsibility, and party jams. (pic by @52chefs) Check out his playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/0uK3qgVTu3Q7Yz6YNgMFCS?si=nxvyYjQjT_KDurHjlN_ZUw

Episode 47 - Justin Oliver

Mo Herms — Fri, 12 Jul 2019 08:45:21 +0000

On this episode Justin Oliver (The Bamboo Club, Lono, Broken Shaker LA, Smuggler's Cove) tells us about the awesomeness of Bobby Darin, learning from the tiki master, & which artists should be in your blues starter kit. Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7o38yLxVA7HuMRh8CY8NvK?si=wuX95DxYReWtTNjLOQMKDg

Episode 46 - Sierra Kirk-Luebke

Mo Herms — Fri, 28 Jun 2019 08:01:07 +0000

Our tropical summer continues with Sierra Kirk-Luebke of Hale Pele in Portland. We chat about her NOLA roots, flaming cocktails in the Pacific Northwest, & chillwave darkwave gothy moody moods. Her basement grooves live here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/3cudWlPvnji4yUHp4dC8iA?si=_mEOGc8GR4qRcx210ajA7A

Episode 45 - Ian Jones

Mo Herms — Fri, 14 Jun 2019 07:48:06 +0000

Ian Jones, owner of Atlanta's S.O.S. Tiki Bar, gives us dad jokes, tiki talk, and why Van Hagar are actually quite romantic. Rocking the Spotify right here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6qwRfhoab4UzSOvsobic4c

Episode 44 - Ray Darko

Mo Herms — Fri, 31 May 2019 16:36:41 +0000

Ray Darko, aka Ramon of Trader Sam's at Disneyland, tells us about falling in love with hip hop & how it became his career, influenced his cocktails, & inspires his future. We get to hear one of his tracks too! Check out his Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5BJWPWrUYHFacnkX0ey5lI

Episode 43 - Jeff Cleveland

Mo Herms — Sat, 18 May 2019 00:25:09 +0000

On this episode, Jeff Cleveland (Workshop, Four Saints, Bryant's Cocktail Lounge) tells us about historic old school cocktail lounges in Milwaukee, his musical awakening, and creating a drink scene in Palm Springs. Check out his playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/3ecrgcuIv1wWSVZrcZQZyB?si=Ns6mRqNHTrWj9MdODojvoQ

Episode 42 - Elana Lepkowski

Mo Herms — Fri, 03 May 2019 07:17:20 +0000

Cocktail blogger Elana Lepkowski is not only the mind behind the much celebrated site Stir and Strain, giving us great cocktail recipes, home bar tips, & entertainment ideas, but she's a kick ass DJ too. Listen to her party mix here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/5vCc18Aaq24g0UvqAi04DY?si=LQvjtQl5TdqsdHlHpZhcig

Episode 41 - Brandon Glass

Mo Herms — Fri, 26 Apr 2019 14:35:37 +0000

On this episode, we are in sunny Palm Springs with Brandon Glass of The Reef. He takes us on a journey from beer to tropical cocktails, and kids tunes to post rock heaviness. Also: Star Wars. Playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/6RZMyjEGIUhcPOaR9Be1tZ?si=c1N_V_4OSXShqL61alxRYQ

Episode 40 - Sother Teague

Mo Herms — Fri, 12 Apr 2019 08:08:06 +0000

On this episode, Sother Teague (Amor y Amargo, Blue Quarter, Windmill, co-host of The Speakeasy podcast) explains his role as a bitters ambassador, reminisces about his radio days, & tells us about his book "I'm Just Here for the Drinks." The music that shaped him? Here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/5pzAelFHnaLLpBvSBkrTur?si=uzURmmoHR7K8Y3764c4cdA

Episode 39 - Shannon Mustipher

Mo Herms — Fri, 22 Mar 2019 16:49:22 +0000

On this episode, Shannon Mustipher (rum brand ambassador, Glady's Brooklyn, Women Who Tiki founder & author of Tiki: Modern Tropical Cocktails) shares her rum story & her Wu-Tang name with us. Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/57nLiPZJonZeNIHKFcXrsB?si=uZ03reqCTbSfZWXylqvVqg

Episode 38 - Gaby Mlynarczyk

Mo Herms — Fri, 08 Mar 2019 18:27:39 +0000

On this episode, Gaby Mlynarczyk (Birch & Accomplice LA, Little Spain NYC), author of Clean + Dirty Drinking, tempts us with non alcoholic cocktails, rightly worships Nina Simone, & lures us to her new gig within Jose Andres' latest endeavor in NY. (pic by Eugene Lee.) Her playlist rules: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/7bB5hLmtvpazNtSuuZGHWv?si=sw2BdO2yQWWFsRJpE6EnWQ

Episode 37 - Matt Friedlander

Mo Herms — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 18:20:12 +0000

Matt Friedlander (Sweetwater Social, Grand Banks) praises the glory of Oasis, crafting a song or cocktail with only so many notes, & the relationships that make music & booze fun. Pictured with Sally! Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/7k7lVhugUdIdiOvzeWHOzp?si=a9JQY51YTiafO-WroWvc3Q

Episode 36 - Jackson Milgaten

Mo Herms — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 18:28:02 +0000

On this episode, we head to Vegas, baby! Jackson Milgaten of Atomic Liquors shares his travels through jazz, dive bars, indie rock, & classic cocktails. And we have a track from his old band too! Check out the Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/0ApC5usZzk9lOWwPGu7q2Q?si=VyBfzujAR_-BTJZa6MNnkA

Episode 35 - Brother Cleve

Mo Herms — Fri, 18 Jan 2019 09:07:57 +0000

Brother Cleve (Del Fuegos, Combustible Edison, Professional Cocktail Scholar) joins us on the podcast to teach us plenty about that 90s swing revival & the ensuing cocktail revival it inspired. Plus a whole lot more! Check out the Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/4inQ70Rzt2qMdB1U6OCSHm?si=At69oNJwQqCX8zBwP2hPMQ

Episode 34 - Jeanie Grant

Mo Herms — Fri, 04 Jan 2019 09:20:07 +0000

On this episode, it's Jeanie Grant of SF's Pagan Idol telling us about competitive bartending, twangy West Coast surf punk, and doing karaoke at dive tiki bars. Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/3bQD1ZwWXAfBr4JSjs7x9o?si=KxUaRQlWR6eTCUzCkaAqsg

Episode 33 - Dale DeGroff

Mo Herms — Fri, 21 Dec 2018 11:50:34 +0000

The King of the Cocktail, Dale DeGroff, is not only the award winning author of The Craft of the Cocktail & a James Beard award recipient, but he's one hell of a great singer too. Join us as we talk jazz and classic cocktails with the master of the bartending scene. His playlist lives here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/75VyL1Ced448fytCcVlMaN?si=tl01IRkJRbGQEQCu8PG6dw

Episode 32 - Brian Sassen

Mo Herms — Fri, 07 Dec 2018 19:02:00 +0000

On this episode, we chat with Brian Sassen of Miami's Repour Bar about beats, booze & workin' it in South Beach. This one also features impromptu rhymes! Check out the Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/3K2FdDqiqznt4yQctmTlLG?si=ojkvdvlpReC-VVQt683c1Q

Episode 31 - Christopher Day

Mo Herms — Fri, 16 Nov 2018 16:38:57 +0000

Christopher Day, an LA bar veteran (Cole's, General Lee's, Honeycut) & currently running the bar program at SF's Barrel Room, tells us about the thrill of classical piano, the nerdism of teaching chemistry, & the musicality of a well crafted cocktail. Check out the Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/0kAjgqoB8fBTHzM8U7BPuj?si=LDbrkHpXSSOEmOUV_2q2wg

Episode 30 - Jason Alexander

Mo Herms — Fri, 02 Nov 2018 17:55:52 +0000

On this episode, Jason Alexander of Tacoma's Devil's Reef & The Fern Room rocks us out on the podcast with talk of Cannibal Corpse, making tuba cool, cocktail ideas that just won't go away, and life as a death-ish metal drummer. Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/56Koh3RoexKF8z9zyEfh1a?si=D5rkKqB3QpqhK88D39zP8w

Episode 29 - Hope Ewing

Mo Herms — Fri, 19 Oct 2018 07:39:13 +0000

Hope Ewing - author of "Movers & Shakers: Women Making Waves in Spirits, Beer & Wine" as well as bar director of LA's Rappahannock Oyster Bar (formerly of Here's Looking at You & Mess Hall) schools us on women in the biz, low abv cocktails, & Ani DiFranco. Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/03boHLAMzn1FhmIz3GZxur?si=LkPtV6KNQIy0ZxtMwnX9zA

Episode 28 - Marcovaldo Dionysos

Mo Herms — Fri, 05 Oct 2018 16:43:04 +0000

For our 1 year anniversary, I head back to the City where I learned to drink... San Francisco! Many-time Best American Bartender nominee Marcovaldo Dionysos (ABV, Smuggler's Cove, Absinthe) rhapsodizes about Chopin, chartreuse, & time spent slinging margaritas. (There may also be German rapping.) Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/2ZWLKNJp2nusWrdCgWIotN?si=hiTkkT59S6CoWUtKWRVeVA

Episode 27 - Jill Cohen

Mo Herms — Fri, 21 Sep 2018 07:08:49 +0000

On this episode, Jill Cohen (formerly of Miami's Blackbird Ordinary and currently producing large scale events for Bacardi) talks about angsty female singers, the thrill of creating new cocktails, & the glory of Broadway musicals. Check out the Spotify goodness here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/0euwjLxqDY8GxOZwbNWDFX?si=oZKoJT-6TTujGDfqfc57tA

Episode 26 - Adrian Eustaquio

Mo Herms — Fri, 07 Sep 2018 07:09:17 +0000

On this episode, we end our Tropical Summer with home bartender & podcaster Adrian Eustaquio, whose "Inside the Desert Oasis Room" show touches on many facets of the tiki world. We also get into freestyle, Jawaiian music, & his scratch DJ past. Massive Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/7JgV55wYLu7AfUX1BX8GNi?si=cH1vvlA4QfaAYENAGo2EFQ

Episode 25 - Brian Miller

Mo Herms — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 09:03:00 +0000

On this episode, Captain Brian Miller of The Polynesian tells us about keeping tiki alive in NYC, mastering the most complex of cocktails, & how to be a pirate in the big city. Also, I giggle a lot. His Spotify playlist is here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/2hXT71oXlgWgoy8egkIYxt?si=LyFjQZlZQr6TUXBYOZ69aw

Episode 24 - Doc Parks

Mo Herms — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 21:56:26 +0000

On this episode, we continue our tropical summer with Doc Parks of Pagan Idol & Zombie Village in SF. He tells us about playing drums, making magic, & removing ancient curses... Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/7ckvsMp8oZH0JgHpc1R18R?si=avXDYw1XT0-ad9lKpav-ww

Episode 23 - Corinna Juarez

Mo Herms — Fri, 10 Aug 2018 22:51:48 +0000

On this episode, we chat with Corinna Juarez of Tiki Ko in Bakersfield about teaching, tiki, & the art of experimentation. Want tiki in the middle of Buck Owens country? We've got it. Playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/34dF7qZuNq5HopQ95gdIEg

Episode 22 - Daniele Dalla Pola

Mo Herms — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 07:53:29 +0000

O this episode, we talk about tiki in Italy with Daniele Dalla Pola (Bologna's Nu Lounge & soon Esotico Miami), playing with fire, rock'n'roll, & his cocktail line, Alamea Liqueurs. Check out his playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/6TlSa1KpdRAKnRdzGCV4AN?si=_qb37xNTTbGlkUv96lnlLQ

Episode 21 - Garret Richard

Mo Herms — Fri, 27 Jul 2018 08:22:22 +0000

On this episode, Garret Richard of Existing Conditions & the NYC tiki pop up Exotica talks about underage experimentation, falling in love with lounge, & songs that inspired cocktails. Check out the Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/0p28hwvZITZmbVbrqCZj5l?si=lEtL5oNxQYaWOw_bwLKZag

Episode 20 - Marie King & Jonpaul Balak

Mo Herms — Fri, 13 Jul 2018 05:59:43 +0000

On this episode, Marie King (Tonga Hut) & Jonpaul Balak (Insect Surfers, Tikiyaki Orchestra) give good rum talk, surf rock schooling, and where tiki goes next. Check out the Spotify playlist too! https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/4Xpfm4Mw26vN1oARYrEyOe

Episode 19 - Chris Elford

Mo Herms — Fri, 29 Jun 2018 08:59:47 +0000

On this episode, we sit with Chris Elford at his tropical bar Navy Strength in Seattle (Spirited Award nominated Best New American Bar 2018) to chat community, cocktails & compassion. (pic by Tim Nusog.) Check out his Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/2Joo2DQGs7nufxidBaD2FS?si=5v1vpRYrR06Q5CJ-84uG5A

Episode 18 - Kevin Beary & Cory Starr

Mo Herms — Fri, 22 Jun 2018 08:00:48 +0000

On this episode, Kevin Beary & Cory Starr of Chicago's Three Dots & a Dash celebrate classic tiki, contemplate future tiki, & talk slinging drinks with Lil Jon. (pic by Christina Slaton) Check out the Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/3uiuFtQkN5HRZac2pGlAJY

Episode 17 - Scotty Schuder

Mo Herms — Fri, 08 Jun 2018 14:25:12 +0000

Scotty Schuder from Dirty Dick in Paris talks about bringing the tropics to the red light district, random rock star encounters, & co-creating the perfect overproof rum. Check out his Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/47SWtNpbQFvtnZ7aF9jBsL

Episode 16 - Philip Dobard

Mo Herms — Fri, 25 May 2018 15:21:26 +0000

On this episode, Philip Dobard, the director of The Museum of the American Cocktail, chats about pirates, prog rock, & a proper stirred aromatic drink. Check out his Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/6u7XWrbXiKG2Qdr0WO6Zoc?si=0TJga3EURBiJlytzSnmYWw

Episode 15 - Jen Akin

Mo Herms — Fri, 11 May 2018 15:42:24 +0000

On this episode, we chat with Jen Akin of Rumba in Seattle about the awesomeness of agricole rhums, Garth Brooks & horses... Check out her Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/6UeAJ3FqKdRPXili1PVDjT?si=n7Oc_05pR9GjYkw9HzkaSQ

Episode 14 - Taejon Romanik

Mo Herms — Fri, 27 Apr 2018 10:37:25 +0000

On this episode, we talk with Taejon Romanik of San Diego's Sycamore Den about sex, drugs, rock 'n' roll, and how cocktails can save your life. Super groovy playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/7FbRvNvlj8GnUYv6eJrJyI?si=StjnTzvaT_iQMeN3u6QPfw

Episode 13 - Yael Vengroff

Mo Herms — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 18:08:00 +0000

On this episode, Yael (beverage director for The Spare Room, Genghis Cohen, Winsome) talks about dancing, being a goth princess screwhead, & justifies vodka. (pic by Skandia Shafer) Check out her Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/5msRro4bnSTu4Dk3wiENDW?si=zj8eANe3SCqtSU0-RxMa-A

Episode 12 - Chris Bostick

Mo Herms — Fri, 23 Mar 2018 15:15:16 +0000

On this episode, we hang with Chris Bostick of Half Step in Austin, Texas. Join us for tequila talk, Texas tunes, and what it's like to create a love letter to your home town. Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/1AFWVokP0owW2pej0fOZEH?si=t7ioQRbZQymywkcS5LedMw

Episode 11 - Adele Stratton

Mo Herms — Fri, 09 Mar 2018 23:52:10 +0000

On the episode, we have lunch with the amazing Adele Stratton of Jaynes Gastropub in the North Park neighborhood of San Diego! We chat mezcal, the glories of playing air bass, and keeping hospitality a thing. Listen to her Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/2v4knyXoJxy030M1TpWBoo?si=2iF-1LYzRjuij37fa5EenQ

Episode 10 - Cedric & Max of Le Tiki Lounge

Mo Herms — Fri, 23 Feb 2018 10:08:06 +0000

On this episode, you get to be part of my summer vacation when I did an impromptu recording with Cedric & Max of Le Tiki Lounge, a fun-tastic tiki dive bar in Paris, France. Here is the Spotify link to more good stuff: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/3HxFi70anWP1YZyKkKVpOA?si=okFk7z19TCmKF4ZQTrasug

Episode 9 - Nathan Hazard

Mo Herms — Fri, 09 Feb 2018 10:47:16 +0000

On this episode, Nathan Hazard & I sit at Tiki Ti in Silver Lake, CA to talk about our college radio days, opening bars in Latin America, and hosting tropical supper clubs in LA. He even picked some tunes for you here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/4c2F70hHR4hoPZMSkRVlIy?si=iOT1fXUDQzitsLlZg6I2yg

Episode 8 - William Pineapple

Mo Herms — Fri, 26 Jan 2018 18:32:21 +0000

On this episode, we have an epic chat with William Pineapple, currently of the infamous Holiday Cocktail Lounge in NYC. His long & storied career (for such a young man!) is stuff of legend that spans time at London's Trailer Happiness, & much couch surfing. His Spotify tunes are here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/7qZfyyzmYHyc16GFsc9ISL

Episode 7 - Hailey DeYoung

Mo Herms — Fri, 12 Jan 2018 09:26:16 +0000

On this episode we chat with Hailey DeYoung of Kindred in San Diego about hardcore, green drinks, and being a woman in the scene. Check out her rockin' Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/0s3hAS2KU2kkhlUBMmcxXL

Episode 6 - Marlo Gamora

Mo Herms — Fri, 22 Dec 2017 17:24:43 +0000

This episode, we sit in the bustling Caffe Dante in NYC's West Village with the dapper Marlo Gamora: bartender extraordinaire, vintage enthusiast, & tiki mug collector. (pic by Gregory Buda) Check out his Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/3cP5PGuNIcd3dSCGzPDo9M

Episode 5 - Eddie Spaghetti

Mo Herms — Fri, 08 Dec 2017 18:09:28 +0000

On this episode, we sit in the lovely garden bar, Broken Shaker, in Miami with Eddie Spaghetti to chat about how fresh you can get your cocktail, and Neil Young. Check out his playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/4s6hUFHsyJ1AUSHAhdvlqn

Episode 4 - Jeff & Annene Berry

Mo Herms — Fri, 24 Nov 2017 17:46:54 +0000

On this episode, we sit down at Latitude 29 in New Orleans with saloon keepers Mr. & Mr. Bum (Jeff "Beachbum" & Annene Berry) for a chat that featured a guest cameo, equipment malfunctions, & reminiscing. Check out their Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/3C9BJ6NUCr4DR2OiNKFHsk

Episode 3 - Brad Moore

Mo Herms — Fri, 10 Nov 2017 18:42:17 +0000

On this episode, we have lunch with Brad Moore, owner of several fantastic bars in Houston TX including Moving Sidewalk, Big Star Bar, the Lei Low & Johnny's Gold Brick. Check out his super rad playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/6uTF9diVYb3GbOPSdep5KU

Episode 2 - Ray Sakover

Mo Herms — Fri, 27 Oct 2017 21:33:10 +0000

On this episode, we sit at a patio in Brooklyn and chat with Ray Sakover, head bartender at Slowly Shirley & The Happiest Hour in NYC's West Side. Check out music he sips whiskey to here: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/3YfOp6gDYyh6NhZFcqkQbX

Episode 1 - Ami Reis

Mo Herms — Fri, 06 Oct 2017 18:33:08 +0000

On this episode, we venture to my hometown of San Diego to talk with the lovely Ami Reis of Bar Pink in North Park. Check out the music she likes to play on her jukebox on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/user/shebmo/playlist/0iICL45RVUJzCu2t6HGQl9