Download Dr. Ivan Saldana is a thinker, a scientist, an influencer, and a crazy inventor. As a safe keeper of mezcal, and plant lover, his early career may have taken him in a different direction. However, the studies abroad at Sussex full enveloped Ivan into his romantic relationship with agave. Years later, the entrepreneurial spirit took over and he helped developed the beautiful Ancho Reyes and Montelobos products. A vast personality with a vast wealth of knowledge, Dr Ivan has written the Anatomy of Mezcal which still serves as a pillar of agave education. We chat academia, children, turning 40, and more.
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EP 233 – Bryan Masamitsu Parsons: Japanese Spirits with Spirit
Download Bryan Masamitsu Parsons lives a triple life. He’s part engineer, part spirits educator/enthusiast, and part creator. His culmination of text books smarts and guttural passion for Japanese spirits pay homage to his rich heritage. From Florida to Austin, TX, Bryan did not expect to become one of the leading educators for Sake, but now 3 years later he’s making the most of it. As the lead sake educator for Kemuri Tatsu-ya, and Ramen Tatsu-ya, it’s possible he’ll have to quit his day job soon enough. We chat Rad Racer, Cracker Barrel, Shochu, and more.
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EP 231 – Niamh Cluskey: All the Irish Whiskey Fit to Drink
DownloadA traditional Irish upbringing involves great dairy, lots of rain, and a deep connection to whiskey. For Teeling Whiskey’s Niamh Cluskey, moving to Austin to share these beautiful marks was a dream come true. Studying journalism (and even having some experience with radio/interviewing herself) expanded into a deeper interest in people and places. Irish Whiskey perfectly bridged these 2 worlds of tradition and process. But as Niamh’s time in the US winds down, what are the next steps and aspirations in such a lovely career so far. We chat Jack Teeling, fashion, radio voice, and more.
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EP 227 – Matthew Korzelius: Taking Life By the Horns
Download New York native Matthew Korzelius has lived many lives prior to arriving behind the bar at The Roosevelt Room. The singing, sherry-loving, creative type has seen tragedy and rebuilding in ways that many have never experienced. Leaving the past behind and setting his sights on new creative outlets, Texas has punctuated a new chapter for Matthew as he finally enters the cocktail competition world and pursues new musical projects. We chat Springbank, Mutoid Man, love, and more.











