Explore every episode of the podcast Bardtenders

You're listening to Bardtenders! In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", Absinthia discusses her love for Absinthe and how it has led her to create her own brand, Absinthia Absinthe. We also discuss Absinthe cocktails, the history of the spirit, and how to avoid fake Absinthe at Burning Man! 

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Absinthia Vermut is the founder of Absinthia's Bottled Spirits. Absinthia’s journey into the world of absinthe started over two decades ago, sparked by a love for art history and a fascination with this legendary spirit. 

Before it was even legal in the U.S., Absinthia was experimenting with making absinthe, which has grown into a passion for crafting high-quality, award-winning absinthe. She focuses on using organic botanicals and Napa Valley grapes, creating naturally sweet, smooth absinthe that doesn't require added sugar.

Their product line includes Absinthe Verte, Blanche, Barrel Aged, and the uniquely colored Bleue, as well as a collection of non-alcoholic craft mixers, including Fairy Dust, a mixer created to provide a way to enjoy the taste of absinthe without the alcohol.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

You're listening to Bardtenders! In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", Sebastien Derbomez talks about his journey in the hospitality industry and how the path you take as a bartender can open the door to opportunities to travel around the world. Sebastien speaks about his experiences traveling, immersing himself in other cultures, and hosting a cocktail competition next to an active volcano! 

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Sebastien Derbomez is the US Manager of Brand Advocacy across the William Grant & Son’s portfolio.

Sebastien started his career in the beverage industry 20 years ago in London at the prestigious Nobu restaurant and then in many “members only” clubs. In 2007, he took his talents and cocktail shakers to Brisbane & Sydney, Australia. During his time there, won several awards for outstanding cocktails, service, and leadership including two Australian Bar Awards and a Queensland Lifestyle Award.

Sebastien has had many roles during his time at William Grant & Son’s. His journey began in 2012 when he successfully represented the company’s whisky brands in his first year. Since then he has worked extensively with Hendricks and Monkey Shoulder before taking on his new role as the US Manager of Brand Advocacy in 2020. Sebastien hopes to continue to bring the company’s exceptional brands to life amongst the trade, while also becoming an ultimate resource and mentor within the industry. 

Alongside his responsibilities, Seb is passionate about traveling the world to discover new cultures and has always been fascinated by tribal culture and rituals – he has even spent time with Aboriginals in Australia and the natives of Tanna Island. Seb is constantly on the hunt for the most unusual locations to enjoy cocktails; even atop Mount Yasur, an active volcano...

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

You're listening to Bardtenders! In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", Justin Koury talks about his journey as the Wizard of Whiskey and blind tasting over 1000 whiskeys for his upcoming publication. He also discusses his company, BevFluence, and how they are bringing education to hospitality professionals. 

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Justin Koury has spent more than 25 years in the culinary, wine, whiskey, hospitality, and consulting world. He has an MBA with a focus in Hospitality Tourism. 

 Justin's website, Wizard of Whiskey, has covered the wine and spirits industry with a podcast since 2012. Justin is completing his American Whiskey Book with over 1000 whiskies tasted blind and hundreds of interviews. He spends his time writing, cooking, and reading when he is not on the road visiting wineries or distilleries or working with clients.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

You're listening to Bardtenders! In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", Chris Cardone talks about competing in cocktail competitions, his history with alcohol and his choices that led to sobriety, and his new business - Continous Beverage Solutions!

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Chris Cardone, the principal owner of Continuous Beverage Solutions, brings over 24 years of bartending, hospitality, and nightlife experience. He has trained staff, designed, opened, and provided beverage consultant services for a wide range of establishments across New York, including neighborhood pubs, NYC cocktail bars, high-end restaurants, sports bars, catering services, seasonal hotspots, and high-volume nightclubs. His expertise also includes consulting on the openings of several restaurants and bars in NYC and Long Island, as well as serving as the Chief Mixologist for Via Carota Craft Cocktails.

Chris was named Bartender of the Year in 2017 after winning the Diageo World Class Bartending US Competition, the world's largest global mixology competition. He placed 5th overall in the Diageo World Class Global Finals that same year and was a two-time Top 5 national finalist in 2014 and 2016. Since 2018, Chris has served as a judge for the Diageo World Class competitions, further solidifying his influence in the industry. He also is an active member of the World Class Collective, acting as a Diageo Reserve Portfolio Brand Educator and as an Educator for DiageoBarAcademy.com.

Chris has just launched his own business, Continuous Beverage Solutions. Continuous Beverage Solutions is dedicated to educating, inspiring, and empowering individuals to thrive and live healthier lives through memorable and inspiring engagements.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

You're listening to Bardtenders!  In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", Wendy Hodges joins us to talk about the upcoming ELEVATE Conference in Lousiville, Kentucky taking place from October 20-23rd 2024. We also talk about her career in bartending, ballroom dancing, British pubs, and how all of those things come together to lay the foundation for Wendy's amazing career! 

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Wendy Hodges is a professional bartender with over 30 years of experience in the Food and Beverage industry. Her current role as the National Director for the Chilled 100 with Chilled Magazine keeps her up to date with current trends and products in the industry. 

Wendy works with clients, bartenders, sales teams, editorial, and outside marketing agencies managing cocktail and article submissions and project management for partner brands. She plans and executes virtual and live events with bartenders in markets across the nation. 

In her current role with Chilled, she is also the liaison for the Chilled 100 Brand Ambassadors and the magazine. With an impressive history of cocktail creation, planning and executing marketing campaigns and events, Wendy continues to maintain a presence in the beverage community.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

You're listening to Bardtenders!  In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", Akil Babb joins us to talk about his career in the hospitality industry as he moved from a chef to a bartender and how his past experiences paved the way for cocktail creation. Akil also discusses his upcoming consulting company, "Twisted Spoon Hospitality" and how his career has led him to this amazing opportunity. 

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Akil Babb is a bartender/bar consultant that’s been behind the stick since 2013. Starting his cocktail career at Whiskey house, in downtown Gainesville, Florida. Akil worked in a wide range of bars and restaurants and he has worked for to better his understanding of the craft cocktail scene. 

Akil moved to Pittsburgh a few years later and become the bar manager of a modernistic cocktail bar called “bridges and bourbon.” After curating that program for 3 years, he started working for Mindful Hospitality in Pittsburgh, where he got opportunities like help putting together and working the celebratory party for Pittsburgh’s first black Mayor and the opening of the August Wilson House. 

 Akil is on his way to opening his own consulting and hospitality company as we speak.(We can drop the name on the podcast if ya want!) Currently residing in Cincinnati Ohio. He Helped open Second Story Bar, which is right over the bridge in Covington, KY. Which got awarded best bar in Cinci (Even though it was over the the Bridge in KY) 

 Akil has a passion for Education when it comes to consulting. He feels that  It is essential to learn the basics (The correct Basics!) to get the most out of what this industry has to offer. And it starts, first and foremost, with hospitality.”

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

You're listening to Bardtenders!  In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", Morgan Dangerfield talks about immersive experiences at the gaming table, creating his own video games, and the upcoming Mystic Con Convention hosted by Heroes of Evermore in October 2024! 

Morgan Dangerfield is a Semi-Professional Dungeon Master who has been running a homebrew Dungeons & Dragons campaign for the last 5 years in the world of Evermore with sponsors from around the world. Morgan focuses on prioritizing character immersion by breaking the 4th wall and capturing all the senses of the players bringing them further into the world.

Morgan is also a published author of the fantasy adventure novel "Heroes of Evermore: An Unlikely Gathering" where he turned their D&D Campaign into a novel that shares the events of their first campaign in the world of Evermore.

Most recently, you might have seen Morgan Dungeon Mastering live at San Diego Comic Con! They are also hosting their own D&D / TTRPG Convention this October (2024) in Southern California! If you'd like to purchase tickets and attend, follow the link: https://tabletop.events/conventions/mystic-con-24

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

You're listening to Bardtenders!  In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", Tara Gillum joins us to talk about her 20+ career in the hospitality industry. We cover cruise ship bartending, what it's like to own a cocktail bar, and working with charity organizations.

Tara Gillum cut her teeth behind local bars at an early age and quickly fell in love with the bar industry. Over the course of her career, Tara worked in a variety of positions ranging from cruise ships to hotel bar management. In 2014 she took a leap of faith and opened Steiner’s Speakeasy in Chillicothe Ohio. Although the focus and offerings of the bar changed over the years from craft beer to cocktails and spirits, the drive to be more than just a place to get a drink stayed the same. 

During the pandemic of 2020, Tara went to the internet to reach her community.  Steiner’s Happy Hour at Home was born, online cocktail classes from Tara’s kitchen where people could log on and interact, just like they would in the bar itself. That was a pivotal moment.

After multiple awards for her cocktails and entrepreneurship, Tara decided she wanted to do more with spirits and cocktail education. Whether it be in a class full of community members or a bar looking for new ideas, Bad Girl, Good Cocktails is Tara’s endeavor into making the world a tastier place.

You can find Tara on social media @badgirlgoodcocktails and you can check out her website at www.badgirlgoodcocktails.com

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If you've listened to the episode already, you'll know that we talked Tara's hometwon Human Society. They are very close to reaching their goal of buidling a new facility and if you want to donate for an amazing cause - follow the link!
https://www.rosscountyhumanesociety.org/capital-campaign/

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

You're listening to Bardtenders!  In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", Sarah Karl talks about mobile bartending, owning a small business, and the future of the hospitality industry. 

Sarah began her bartending career at Scarlett O'Hara's in downtown St. Augustine in 2014, when Mumford & Sons ROCKED the city. Building on two years of serving experience and a deepening passion for bartending, Sarah fully immersed herself in the craft. Following the acquisition of Scarlett O'Hara's by a company specializing in craft cocktails, Sarah enhanced her skills in quality ingredients and advanced techniques, which she later applied at Barley Republic, further expanding her expertise in beer and whiskey.

In late 2018, Sarah joined the Ice Plant, where she honed her craft cocktail skills until a COVID-related furlough in March 2020. During this period, she and her partner launched a food and beverage Instagram account to explore the changing F&B landscape. After a brief tenure as a Beverage Manager, Sarah chose to focus entirely on McKarl’s Libations in February 2021.

McKarl’s, which began as a social media food and beverage concept, has since evolved into a thriving hospitality company. McKarl's is committed to delivering exceptional service and innovative cocktails, offering bar program consulting, and fostering connections between consumers and brands. After three years into this journey, they continue to experience significant growth.

As they continue to expand, Sarah is excited about their ambitious plans for the future. She is committed to making a meaningful impact in both her local community and the broader hospitality industry.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

You're listening to Bardtenders!  In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", Devin Chapnick returns to discuss advocacy for our peers in the hospitality industry, creating positive work culture, and "The Hero's Journey & Hospitality".  

Devin Chapnick is the owner of Convenient Cocktail Co. The idea of Convenient Cocktail Co. was formed in the Fall of 2022. Devin moved there in 2021 with his then soon-to-be wife after years of working in the Denver bar scene. Devin had plans of opening his own bar and settling down. Devin met his future business partner Josh while working at a local cocktail bar called No Hard Feelings and soon discovered that they were also neighbors! While drinking one night at one of their home bars, Josh mentioned that he wanted to try to get a dehydrated garnish company started, and pitched it to Devin to partner with him. At first, Devin was skeptical, but for the next three days, it was the only thing he could think about. Devin came up with the name, a design for the logo, and three weeks after that - they were in business! Devin’s wife Caitlin was several months pregnant at the time, and from the first time we spoke about having a family Devin always said that he’d want to be part of the Stay at Home Dad's Club. Over a year and a half later, Dad doesn't stay home anymore, but Finn does come to the shop 4/5 days a week and they cherish this special way that they have shaped their lives.

Devin feels truly lucky to be able to connect with people in the specific context of this profession, despite the myriad hardships that all hospitality professionals must face on a day-to-day basis.

You can follow Devin on social media @Devin.Drinks and you can follow Convenient Cocktail Co. on social media @convenientcocktailco

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

You're listening to Bardtenders!  In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", McIntyre talks about starting a small business, finding clients, hiring the right employees, and what it takes to run a mobile bartending and spirit education company.

Matthew McIntyre serves as the Co-Founder and CEO of McKarl’s Libations, a hospitality group specializing in high-end mobile craft bartending, bar consultations, and retail and on-premise promotions.

With a background in some of North Florida's most prestigious bars, his lengthiest stint was at The Ice Plant in St. Augustine, FL. Matthew holds the title of Executive Bourbon Steward along with several other certifications, delighting in educating consumers and leading spirits-focused classes. Additionally, he acts as the North Florida ambassador for Misguided Spirits, a spirits company established by bartenders for bartenders. 

Matthew’s greatest joy is providing hospitality and education outside of your typical brick-and-mortar bar. From intimate backyard gatherings to large corporate events, he aims to create memorable experiences for every guest. His passion for craft cocktails and dedication to excellence are evident in every aspect of his work, ensuring that each event is uniquely tailored to the client's vision.

When he's not behind the bar, you can find Matthew experimenting with new cocktail recipes, exploring local distilleries, or sharing his knowledge at industry seminars. He believes that the art of bartending extends beyond just mixing drinks; it’s about storytelling, connecting with people, and creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and appreciated.

Matthew’s innovative approach and unwavering commitment to quality have earned him a respected place in the industry. He continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of craft bartending, always striving to elevate the guest experience to new heights.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

You're listening to Bardtenders!  In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", Danny Posey discusses the struggle and strategies for success in working in small U.S. markets. Danny also talks about ways to connect with other professionals in the hospitality industry to help grow your career and advance your education! 

Danny Posey has been in the hospitality industry for 17. Danny started his journey in the industry working at a big corporate chain restaurant and since then has worked as a server, bartender, beverage director, manager, and training lead.  Danny has always loved bartending and has recently been back behind the sticks making cocktails and pouring libations for guests in Rogers, Arkansas. 

Danny has also entered many cocktail competitions thanks to our friends at Chilled Magazine; He hasn't placed yet, but he looks at these competitions as learning opportunities to fine-tune his skills and learn new techniques. 

NW Arkansas is a small market, with limited networking and educational opportunities for the industry (for now…) so for the last two years Danny has been trying to attend every possible opportunity out of state (and even one international trip) he can find, including Bar & Restaurant Expo, BCB, Tales, Portland Cocktail Week, etc.  Danny has also been working with Chilled Media to build an established Chilled 100 group in Arkansas to help connect people and grow their abilities as well as hoping to reignite a USBG chapter.

You can find Danny at Local Lime in Rogers, AR, a Baja-Cali mex concept that uses fresh, local ingredients both in the kitchen and behind the bar where Danny is the bar manager and runs the beverage program there. You can also find Danny on social media at @drinkwithdanny 

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

You're listening to Bardtenders!  In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", Bobby Mercier shares his experiences operating and managing brand activations, cocktail competitions, music festivals, and other large events across the United States and Mexico!

Robert Mercier, a New Hampshire native and hockey fanatic, has enjoyed a career spanning close to two decades in the hospitality business. He currently resides in Deland, Florida with his wife and children who keep him focused on his goal of advancing his career in food and beverage through education and dedication.

With experience in many facets of the business including bar and beverage program management and cocktail development, Robert's specialty is bringing quality cocktails and service to large brand events and festivals. For Robert, "True hospitality - making guests feel welcome at home, connecting with new people, and sharing knowledge, and crafting cocktails and experiences that people enjoy is my passion. I am fortunate to have landed in a profession where I can pursue my passion and have a lot of fun doing it!"

Robert describes himself as a "hospitality-first professional" and being that he works in a city and state that boasts so many options for great establishments and talented bartenders, he feels that the most important thing he can do is make every guest feel appreciated. Don't let his focus fool you though! Bobby, as his friends refer to him, is always the life of the party and will find a way to make you smile on either side of the bar!

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

You're listening to Bardtenders!  In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", we are joined by Emma Alexander to share her expertise on building bar culture and the important of mentorships in the hospitality community.

Emma Alexander's journey in the hospitality industry began in the late 90s in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she started as a bartender. Today, she stands as the CEO of EHA Consultants, boasting a rich and diverse career trajectory. From bartending and managing bars to serving as a Distributor Specialist and Beverage Director, Emma's expertise spans various roles across 11 states.

Beyond her professional endeavors, she's a dedicated mentor and collaborator, passionate about advancing the industry. Emma's involvement extends to organizations like Women Who Whiskey, where she served as Co-President and her role on a major distributor's tasting committee for six years. Her global experiences include harvesting agave in Mexico and learning brewing techniques in Germany, where she assisted with unique beer creations for three US breweries. Committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Emma is a vocal advocate and public speaker on bartender wellness and neurodiversity.

Her extensive list of certifications includes
- Certified Spirits Specialist (CSS)
- Wine & Spirits Education Trust Level 2 in wine
- Certified Sherry & Wine Specialist
- Executive Bourbon Whiskey Steward Diploma

These certifications reflect her relentless pursuit of knowledge. As a Facilitator for the Safe Bar Network and Brand Ambassador for CHOW (Culinary Hospitality Outreach and Wellness), Emma embodies her motto: "Always Learning, Always Teaching."

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

The idea of Convenient Cocktail Co. was formed in the Fall of 2022. Devin moved there in 2021 with his then soon-to-be wife after years of working in the Denver bar scene. Devin had plans of opening his own bar and settling down. Devin met his future business partner Josh while working at a local cocktail bar called No Hard Feelings and soon discovered that they were also neighbors! While drinking one night at one of their home bars, Josh mentioned that he wanted to try to get a dehydrated garnish company started, and pitched it to Devin to partner with him. At first, Devin was skeptical, but for the next three days, it was the only thing he could think about. Devin came up with the name, a design for the logo, and three weeks after that - they were in business! Devin’s wife Caitlin was several months pregnant at the time, and from the first time we spoke about having a family Devin always said that he’d want to be part of the Stay at Home Dad's Club. Over a year and a half later, Dad doesn't stay home anymore, but Finn does come to the shop 4/5 days a week and they cherish this special way that they have shaped their lives.

Devin feels truly lucky to be able to connect with people in the specific context of this profession, despite the myriad hardships that all hospitality professionals must face on a day-to-day basis.

You can follow Devin on social media @Devin.Drinks and you can follow Convenient Cocktail Co. on social media @convenientcocktailco

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Join Dale & Jon as they discuss some hot takes regarding Dungeons & Dragons!  Should the DM fudge their dice while playing? Is the Ranger a useless class? Should playing D&D as a PVP style game be banned for life?  Tune in to find out! 

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Ingrid Folkers is a bartender based out of Raleigh, North Carolina. She has 13 years experience behind the bar and truly has a passion for cocktails and spirits. 

Ingrid has achieved her Level 2 in Spirits Certification from the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET), which she received with distinction. She is an expert in whiskey, but is knowledgeable across the board when it comes to spirits. In 2023, she was named the runner up for Bartender of the Year by the Women in Whiskey Awards presented by the Bourbon Women Association. Ingrid also holds the accreditation of Bourbon Steward with the Stave and Thief Society and has a Certification in Canadian Whisky. This year, she intends to become a Certified Scotch Professional with The Council of Whiskey Masters. 

Over the last few years, Ingrid has competed in a significant number of cocktail competitions at various levels. She has won several local competitions and has done well at the national level as well. Most recently, she was named Top 30 in the U.S. by USBG Presents World Class Sponsored by Diageo. She was also named a second place winner for the 2023 Novo Fogo Chachaça Competition and her cocktail was published in Chilled Magazine. 

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Looking for where to start when making your next character for an upcoming campaign? The Bardtenders take a deep dive into Paladins from D&D. Like any good cocktail, characters have multiple ingredients that make up their backstory, classes, and skill sets. Just for each episode of Character Cocktails where we shake things up, one role at a time! 

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Loved Campaign One and can't wait for Campaign Two?  Dale & Jon talk about their different approaches towards being a Dungeon Master and how the two campaigns will have their own personal touches attached to them. 

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Looking for where to start when making your next character for an upcoming campaign? The Bardtenders take a deep dive into Barbarians from D&D. Like any good cocktail, characters have multiple ingredients that make up their backstory, classes, and skill sets. Join us for each episode of Character Cocktails where we shake things up, one role at a time!

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Chris Tunstall is the Co-Founder and Chief of Brand and Product Development at A Bar Above, and also the former Host of the A Bar Above Podcast. He has extensive experience in professional bartending and bartender career development and is seasoned in running bar programs and operations.

Chris is a bar professional with ten years of hospitality experience, encompassing both working behind bars and managing them. Having had the privilege of designing cocktails for some of the finest spirit brands, Chris has acquired a wealth of knowledge in the field.

A Bar Above is a bartender-owned company founded on Chris's accumulated expertise over the years. Chris has dedicated a career to mastering advanced mixology and cocktail techniques that set apart the best bartenders, and this knowledge is shared generously with the community.

Bringing industry expertise and a fervor for bar education and products, Chris contributes to A Bar Above by assisting the team in creating all bar education content. This includes crafting cocktails, developing bar training, hosting the A Bar Above Podcast, and spearheading product development to ensure that the barware offered continues to be of the highest quality.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

You asked and we answered! From sharing our favorite moments from the campaign to behind-the-scenes and never-explored plot lines - this is the podcast to listen to for a peek behind the curtain. Ever wonder if Richter is a top or a bottom? You'll have to listen to find out! 

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Originally an actor from Peoria Illinois, Nathan found himself enthralled by the world of coffee and hospitality after going from regular to barista at [CxT] Roasting Company. After moving to Colorado and working with Boxcar Coffee Roasters he finally found himself at Death & Company Denver as a Lead Barista with DC/AM. Since joining DC/AM he's been expanding the cafe's connection with the local coffee community while receiving a crash course into the world of cocktails.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Live from San Antonio, Texas! The Bardtenders head to San Antonio for the Third Coast Cocktail Conference to bring you live episodes with some amazing hospitality professionals. The Bardtenders had the chance to stay at the Heard House sponsored by Heard Card Game where bartenders came together to share their stories and create some amazing memories along the way. Join us over the next several weeks as these bartenders share their experiences of their time in the hospitality industry!

Chandler Tomayko joins the Bardtenders to talk about the Heard Card Game! The Heard Card is a game for misfits in the service and hospitality industry.  During the craziness of 2020, Chandler was introduced to an online community of industry misfits that just cemented something she had always known...regardless of language, position, culture, or type of venue, many of us deal with the same kind of frustrations. Reminiscing with her new online community, Chandler came up with the idea to make it into a game.  She created Heard, inspired by stories collected from bartenders, chefs, servers, managers, and dishwashers among others. For Chandler, she doesn't know how far this will go, but she loves this industry in spite of all its flaws because of the people that she feels fortunate to have crossed paths with and whom have an unspoken understanding. Cheers to all the SINners out there!

Interested in the Heard Card Game?  You can head to the website at https://linktr.ee/HeardCardGame or head to social media @heardcardgame 

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Looking for where to start when making your next character for an upcoming campaign? The Bardtenders take a deep dive into Bards from D&D. Like any good cocktail, characters have multiple ingredients that make up their backstory, classes, and skill sets. Join us for each episode of Character Cocktails where we shake things up, one role at a time!

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Live from San Antonio, Texas! The Bardtenders head to San Antonio for the Third Coast Cocktail Conference to bring you live episodes with some amazing hospitality professionals. The Bardtenders had the chance to stay at the Heard House sponsored by Heard Card Game where bartenders came together to share their stories and create some amazing memories along the way. Join us over the next several weeks as these bartenders share their experiences of their time in the hospitality industry!

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

With the Triton army defeated, the Abyss subdued, and Freepourt slowly recovering  - the Bardtenders look to the future and reflect on their journey.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Live from San Antonio, Texas! The Bardtenders head to San Antonio for the Third Coast Cocktail Conference to bring you live episodes with some amazing hospitality professionals. The Bardtenders had the chance to stay at the Heard House sponsored by Heard Card Game where bartenders came together to share their stories and create some amazing memories along the way. Join us over the next several weeks as these bartenders share their experiences of their time in the hospitality industry!


Originally from Newark, New Jersey, Solomon "Sol" Thomas now calls Philadelphia home. Sol has lots of experience with conferences and cocktail competitions across the country.  Sol formerly served as the president of the Philadelphia USBG chapter. He now works at R&D Cocktail Bar, The Trestle Inn, and The Tasting Room at Philadelphia Distilling.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

With Martine seemingly defeated, a greater danger lies on the horizon for the Bardtenders as Freepourt's future hangs in the balance.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Live from San Antonio, Texas! The Bardtenders head to San Antonio for the Third Coast Cocktail Conference to bring you live episodes with some amazing hospitality professionals. The Bardtenders had the chance to stay at the Heard House sponsored by Heard Card Game where bartenders came together to share their stories and create some amazing memories along the way. Join us over the next several weeks as these bartenders share their experiences of their time in the hospitality industry!


Matty Rangel joins the Bardtenders in this episode to share his passion for social media and the inspiration behind his TikTok videos!  Matthew Rangel hails from Milwaukee, Wisconsin and is a nine-year service industry veteran with experience as a bar back, bartender, bar manager, server, & security. He has worked at restaurants, dive bars, sports bars, neighborhood dives, & clubs. When not bartending, you can catch Matty making videos on TikTok, Instagram, & Facebook about the service industry as @therealmattyr. This pairs well with his passion for acting in which he has a Bachelor of arts in & is continuing to pursue with his agent, Babes N Beaus, based in Chicago.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

The Bardtenders head towards their final confrontation with the Tritons. What awaits them at Memorial Park?

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A veteran barkeep, Sarah LM Mengoni cut her teeth working in Michigan beer dives and shot joints (before the law even allowed her to enjoy them) then moved to Chicago where she discovered and embraced the World of the Cocktail. Her enthusiasm for cocktail culture and gift for crafting unique recipes has earned her industry recognition, such as 50 Women to Watch in
Hotel F&B magazine, as well as countless features in publications such as Imbibe, Food and Wine, Vogue, Forbes, GQ, and Time Out LA, to name a few.

Sarah is a graduate of the distinguished BAR 5-DAY program in New York City, which stands as one of the industry’s top mixology certifications.

Currently, Sarah is teaching cocktail classes with a historical bent, working as a Bar and Beverage Consultant through her website www.Historically-Drinking.com, and pedaling her book “Once Upon a Cocktail- West Hollywood” which she co-authored with award-winning illustrator Katie Brightside.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Gary reminisces about his past and shares a moment with the Bardtenders before they face Martine and the Tritons. 

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In this episode of The Mixing Glass, Gregg Snyder joins us to discuss his career, legacy, and what it's like being the Master Distiller for Chicken Cock Whiskey!

Gregg Snyder is currently the CEO of Distilled Spirits Consulting LLC and has over 46 years of experience and knowledge in the distilled spirits industry. Gregg has teamed up with Grain & Barrel Spirits and is currently the Master Distiller and consultant for Chicken Cock Whiskey.  Gregg is the former Vice President & Managing Director for Austin Nichols, Inc., dba Wild Turkey Distillery, and was the visionary behind the development of the Russell's Reserve whiskey line.

At Chicken Cock Whiskey, Gregg brings a career's worth of knowledge to the brand as well. Gregg served as the former Director of Operations for Blue Grass Cooperage (currently the Brown Forman Cooperage).  He has also held numerous supervisory and managerial positions across the industry since 1978. 

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Alistair and his mom gather supplies. Richter connects with his past and contemplates the future. Orin contemplates life with a permanent +1.  

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Coming to you live from Louisville, Kentucky - the Bardtenders attended the ELEVATE conference hosted and sponsored by Chilled Media!  During the conference, we had the opportunity to talk with some amazing hospitality professionals and we can't wait for you to hear their stories!

In this episode, De'Qustay Johnson joins us to talk about her career in the industry, starting her own mobile bar company, and her role as the Perfect Puree Brand Ambassador!

De’Qustay Johnson is a bartender and mixologist with more than 10 years of experience serving drinks and a passion for delivering friendly, engaging customer service. Known as De (“Dee”), she is the owner and founder of MobileBarATL and the Perfect Purée Brand Ambassador for the Atlanta, Georgia area.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

After their fight with Delilah, the Bardtenders begin to tie off some loose ends before heading to their final confrontation with Martine and the Tritons. 

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Coming to you live from Louisville, Kentucky - the Bardtenders attended the ELEVATE conference hosted and sponsored by Chilled Media!  During the conference, we had the opportunity to talk with some amazing hospitality professionals and we can't wait for you to hear their stories!

In this episode, Julia Melucci joins us to talk about her career in the industry and her role as part of the Monin Innovation Team! 

Julia has been in the hospitality industry for over 30 years. Julia’s love for robust flavors traces back to childhood memories of her mother experimenting in the kitchen. She has
own awards for her creations including the 2019 Wild Turkey Behind the Barrel and is extremely knowledgeable and passionate about food, wine, and spirits.

As a member of the Chilled 100, Julia is known as an industry influencer with strong ties to the mixology scene in and around Tampa Bay, Florida. She appreciates the creative outlet she’s given when crafting recipes and strives to inspire others by
creating something they love. Her talents and passion for the industry make her a valuable asset to the Monin Innovation Team.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Richter and Delilah come face to face to settle the score and end the feud between them. Who will take control of their family's legacy?

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Coming to you live from Louisville, Kentucky - the Bardtenders attended the ELEVATE conference hosted and sponsored by Chilled Media!  During the conference, we had the opportunity to talk with some amazing hospitality professionals and we can't wait for you to hear their stories!

In this episode, Jeff Greif talks about the ELEVATE Conference hosted by Chilled Media in Louisville, Kentucky. Jeff is the Publishing Director of Chilled Media, Head of Partnerships for The Chilled Spirited Awards, and the Producer of Chilled ELEVATE! 

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

The St. Umbra clan has captured a tail and Richter, Orin, & Calista lead the interrogation.  Alistair heads to a ritual to examine the artifact to get a glimpse into the past.  

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Coming to you live from Louisville, Kentucky - the Bardtenders attended the ELEVATE conference hosted and sponsored by Chilled Media!  During the conference, we had the opportunity to talk with some amazing hospitality professionals and we can't wait for you to hear their stories!

In this episode, Wane Lindsey talks about his career and his connection to Hell House Whiskey.  Wane is a seasoned professional in the music industry, multidisciplinary creative, Director of Marketing for Why&How ventures, and the Director of Partnerships for Bespoken. With a background in design, event production, and creative strategy - Wane is adept at building brands for both artists and businesses. Drawing upon his extensive knowledge of the music industry and close collaboration with artists, Wane facilitates venture deals that are mutually beneficial and establishes authentic relationships with brands. 

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Lynyrd Skynyrd is the legendary American rock band that revolutionized the music scene and left an indelible mark on the fabric of American culture. With their electrifying blend of rock, blues, and country, they ignited a movement known as Southern rock, captivating millions of fans nationwide. This isn’t just a Whiskey; it's a piece of American history that resonates with die-hard fans and captures the spirit of an era.

Driven by a deep desire to honor their roots and the very place where their musical journey took shape. Hell House, the humble cabin where the band crafted their iconic songs, serves as a powerful symbol of their beginnings. With Hell House Whiskey, Lynyrd Skynyrd endeavors to encapsulate the essence of that transformative period, infusing every sip with the spirit of their legendary music. It becomes a medium through which they share their story and forge a profound connection with fans, inviting all to raise a glass and embark on an eternal voyage through the soulful soundscapes of Southern rock.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

The conflict is drawing near as the Bardtenders make plans to protect their loved ones and head towards the inevitable battle. 

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Coming to you live from Louisville, Kentucky - the Bardtenders attended the ELEVATE conference hosted and sponsored by Chilled Media!  During the conference, we had the opportunity to talk with some amazing hospitality professionals and we can't wait for you to hear their stories!

In this episode, we had the chance to talk to some titans in the world of hospitality - Dale DeGroff & Ted Breaux. Join us as we talk about their careers and their new creations from DeGroff Spirits!

Dale DeGroff is celebrated for sparking the classic cocktail revival in New York's famous Rainbow Room in the 1990's, Dale DeGroff reinvented the bartending profession, igniting a global cocktail renaissance that continues today. Dale's contributions are credited with two James Beard Awards, the Tales of the Cocktail Lifetime Achievement Award, Wine Enthusiast's 2019 Cocktail Legend Award, and many others. In what began as a quest to create an artisanal spirit befitting of classic cocktail excellence, Dale forged a collaboration with Ted Breaux, renowned Absinthe Expert and Master Distiller.

Ted Breaux is a research scientist and world-renowned absinthe expert. Ted Breaux carefully reverse-engineered vintage absinthes. He worked diligently with the TTB to get a 95-year ban on the sale of absinthe in the US repealed and in 2007, Lucid Absinthe, created by Breaux, became the first genuine absinthe to be available for sale in the US.  Distilled in strict accordance with traditional French methods in the historic Combier Distillery in the Loire Valley of France, his award-winning absinthes are distilled with whole European herbs, free of artificial flavors, colors, or added sugar.  As a result of a deep friendship with Dale, and his knowledge of working with botanicals, Ted was invited to join Dale in the development of DeGroff's Bitter Aperitivo and New World Amaro.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Happy Holidays everyone!  Join Brandon & Jon as they talk about the past year and what exciting things lay ahead in 2024 for Bardtenders! 

Jacob Mentel is a bartender from San Diego, California, and has worked in some amazing bars over the years including Youngblood cocktails, Noble Experiment, and Polite Provisions where he was trained by Sam Ross and Erick Castro. Jacob is an advocate for mental health in the hospitality industry and shares his life experiences and journey over the years. 

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

It's time for a holiday special!  Brandon steps in as the DM to take the Bardtenders on a special one-shot.  Joining us for this episode is Caleb Reeves! You can find Caleb on social media @Caleb_Reeves and stay up to date on all of his adventures in hospitality.

Enjoy the episode and don't forget to "Obey. Teach. Flourish."

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Tyler MacLellan is currently one of the bar managers at Three Dots & a Dash in Chicago Illinois. Tyler has worked in bars & restaurants all around Wisconsin including being one of the opening bar managers for PufferFish, a tropical cocktail bar that is currently on the roof of Hotel Metro in downtown Milwaukee.  Tyler talks with us about his experience in bars, hospitality, Brandy Sweets, and his love for Voodoo Chicken.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

With the inevitable conflict approaching, the Bardtenders plan their next move while Gary fills them in (finally) on where he's been and what happened to him. 

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to! 

Bringing over 25 years of hospitality, brand ambassadorships, and marketing experience to the role, Nick Crutchfield joins Lyre’s from a background that includes positions as Master Educator for the Diageo portfolio for the Controls Division across 17 states. Other positions over 9+ years at the company include Master of Whisk(e)y for the Washington D.C. and mid-Atlantic markets and Program Specialist for the entire nation. Crutchfield is a long-time member of the U.S. Bartender’s Guild, and his industry experience also includes bar management/directing/consulting and brand ambassador roles for various venues and suppliers. In his new position, Crutchfield oversees the Education and Advocacy for the entirety of Lyre’s systems and positions, increasing their capacity to inspire and educate others in all that Lyre’s has to offer. Crutchfield has been paramount to building brand advocacy for Lyre’s in 60+ countries including Australia, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, South Africa, Hong Kong and APAC, the Middle East, and throughout Europe.

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Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical wellbeing, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to!