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 239 – Kerrin Egalka: London Calling to the Faraway Dram
Download Both creative and highly analytical, Compass Box’s Kerrin Egalka made the enviable shift into the hospitality world. As a computer science and art history “nerd”, Kerrin tired of the day to day humdrum corporate life. With an articulate ambition and unrivaled ability to understand highly complex things, she entered the cocktail industry. She has represented some exceptional spirits, but none as bold as Compass Box Whiskey. We chat Jake Tapper, London, art, being aquarians, 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 230 – Mitch Bechard: Ready, Set, Scotch
DownloadMusicians make the best ambassadors and for Glenfiddich’s Mitch Bechard, touring around the world sharing art was second nature. Born in Scotland to Mauritian parents, Mitch was fortunate enough to spend his youth traveling the globe with his family, during which time he developed the kind of wanderlust that would become a central part of his career. Beginning in 1990, he started to take his first steps into the world of food and drink, cutting his teeth in hotel management, as well as running restaurants and cocktail bars in places as far-flung as Portugal, England, Scotland and Australia, as he traveled the globe chasing his passion for the spirits industry. We…
