The road to Scotch was a much larger one than you might think for Beam-Suntory’s Johnnie Mundell. As a traveler, and semi-aspiring film maker, his creative roots were moving in many directions. But as life and love ultimately shaped the journey, Johnnie connected with his homeland and perspective on teaching as he became a whisky brand ambassador. Through a few other brands, Johnnie ultimately found one of the largest challenges yet, representing Japanese culture and history through the lens of Whisky with Beam-Suntory. We chat Ken Loach, school days, Cognac, Jordan Felix and more.
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Ep 243 – Nathan Reffell: Well Respected Man About Town
Download The fashion-forward and hospitality focused Nathan Reffell has helped shape the Houston hospitality scene. As an ambassador for the gin and rum categories previously, his newly formed role with Grey Goose Vodka pairs his love of spirts with fashion. A student of the small Rowlett, Texas created larger aspirations for travel and in a way, customer service. Nate studied fashion design while learning that perhaps larger horizons emerged ahead. Now years later, his work with the USBG Houston chapter and other fine cocktail establishments in Houston make him the perfect man to bring the fine tastes of Grey Goose Vodka to a larger audience. We chat tailors, travel,…
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Ep 242 – Derek Posner: The Quintessential Man of Leisure
Download Whether you say lee-sure or leh-sure, Austin’s Derek Posner sets a great example on how to create balance in one’s life. Developing a brilliant work ethic at the early age of 16, Derek found his social calling and talent prosper in the hospitality industry. And after a short-lived stint in baseball, the decks aligned and proved that he was going to be a long term player in this massive industry. San Francisco promises started to run down and a fortuitous chapter in Austin began to emerge. Now, a few years in, Derek works for the beautiful innovative and terroir driven vodka, Grey Goose. With a suit and a…
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Ep 241 – Dr. Ivan Saldaña: Innovation on the Horizon of Mezcal
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.
