Jose Cortes of Tequila Herradura has deep roots in the agave fields. As a 3rd generation Jimador, he learned the lifestyle and pride garnered by harvesting agave. After years in the fields, his passion for learning and expanding his opportunities drove Jose into academia. His business acumen led him to learn English, receiving Tequila Expert status, and now being the director of VIP and Trade at Casa Herradura. We chat music, language, and legacy.
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Ep 283 – Alan Ruesga-Pelayo: When There’s A Will, There’s A Way
Guadalajara native Alan Ruesga-Pelayo has hospitality in his blood. As a helper with his parents social events, and a lover of conversation, the perfect stage was set for Alan to excel in the bartending community. After moving to meet his sister in Washington DC, a necessity to learn English and a great deal of opportunities in hospitality started to pave his career. Some years later, a chance meeting behind the bar led to his most recent connection with Cazadores as the new and colorful brand ambassador. We chat hosting, press, Austin, and more.
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Ep 270 – Aaron Kolitz: Mi Casa es Su Casa
Aaron Kolitz has traveled around the world, sometimes cooking, sometimes sipping, but always learning. The San Antonio native has always been interested in education. And once the hospitality bug settled in, his ability to adapt and learn landed him gigs at various wonderful restaurants. Now as a brand ambassador for Casa Noble tequila, his kindness, interest in raw ingredients, and ability to connect with folks keeps propelling him forward. We chat shuttering a restaurant, top golf, and agave.
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Ep 252 – Clayton Szczech: A Life on Tour
Portland native Clayton Szczech leveraged writing, music, and civil service to the help the community around him. But as many stories twist and turn, (add disappointment with bureaucracy and a need for new horizons into the mix) Clayton found a new sense of purpose in agave spirits. Now the founder of such great curated tours like Experience Mezcal, and Experience Tequila, he is able to help invite people into the rich culture of Mexico. And to top it off he has also founded one of the only Tequila tasting bars in Jalisco, La Cata. We chat liberty, punk rock, agave sustainability, and more.
