I'm searching for the WHY of people at this point in my life and after much deliberate professional stillness, I've come to the conclusion that TaleFeather will continue to concentrate on the hospitality and adult beverage industries, but I'm keen to open it up to people adjacent to the industries and people that I find endlessly interesting. The flow is about WHY and HOW people choose to hop into their careers and their story up to that point. The reason that I'm changing the flow goes back to my thirst for people and community. I want the audience to hear these stories to relate to others more wholly, to experience these stories and hear themselves and their journeys, and most importantly for people out there in the ether that are listening to have information that they can take away from the conversations and apply that into their local communal interactions.
Welcome to Season 2 of TaleFeather
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S2 Ep4: In the Spirit of Community: A Tale of Bars, Art, and Recovery with Phoebe Esmon
Season 2 · Episode 4
Tuesday, June 17, 2025 • Duration 01:10:05
Summary:
In this episode of TaleFeather, Nick engages in a deep and organic conversation with Phoebe Esmon, exploring her journey into the hospitality industry, the evolution of the cocktail renaissance in the mid-Atlantic, and the impact of personal experiences on professional choices. They discuss the challenges faced by the hospitality industry in Western North Carolina, the resilience of communities in the face of natural disasters, and the importance of kindness and human connection in hospitality. The conversation also touches on the beauty of the Appalachian region and the significance of art and creativity in shaping experiences within the industry.
Takeaways
Phoebe's upbringing in a religious household shaped her open-mindedness.
The hospitality industry is deeply connected to personal experiences.
The cocktail renaissance in Philly was a collaborative effort among passionate bartenders.
Natural disasters can significantly impact local communities and industries.
Resilience in the face of adversity is a common theme in hospitality.
Community support is crucial for recovery after disasters.
The importance of kindness and human connection in hospitality.
Art and creativity play a vital role in the hospitality experience.
The evolution of personal choices can be influenced by significant life events.
The Appalachian culture emphasizes community and support.
S2 Ep3: Ctrl+Alt+Commune: The Digitized Evolution of the Third Space with Arturo Vera-Felicie
Season 2 · Episode 3
Tuesday, June 3, 2025 • Duration 01:13:13
Summary:
In this conversation, Nick Crutchfield and Arturo Vera-Felicie (Arturotron Robobartender) delve into the concept of third spaces, both traditional and digital, and how they serve as community hubs. They discuss the evolution of these spaces, the importance of inclusivity, and the challenges faced in online interactions. The conversation highlights the need for safe environments in both physical and digital realms, especially in light of the pandemic's impact on the hospitality industry. They also explore the future of hospitality, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and adapting to changing consumer behaviors.
Notes:
Third spaces are evolving from traditional bars to include digital platforms.
Community is essential for connection and support in both physical and digital spaces.
Inclusivity and safety are paramount in creating welcoming environments.
The pandemic highlighted the need for adaptability in the hospitality industry.
Mentorship is crucial for the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Digital interactions can foster real-life connections and communities.
The younger generation has a different relationship with alcohol than previous generations.
NA options are essential for modern bars to thrive.
The future of hospitality will involve hybrid models that blend digital and physical experiences.
S2 Ep2: Secrets & Switchblades of Branding and Hospitality with Stephen Myers
Season 2 · Episode 2
Tuesday, April 29, 2025 • Duration 01:08:15
In this episode of TaleFeather, host Nick Crutchfield interviews Stephen Myers, a seasoned professional in the hospitality industry. They discuss Stephen's journey from corporate life in Australia to his diverse experiences across four continents, including his impactful time at Cafe No Se in Guatemala. The conversation delves into the importance of personal growth, the evolution of hospitality, and the significance of connections in shaping one's narrative. Stephen shares valuable insights on learning through experience, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the essence of hospitality across different cultures. In this conversation, Stephen Myers and Nick Crutchfield explore the intricacies of networking, the importance of third spaces in social interactions, and the evolving landscape of the beverage industry. They discuss the significance of observation in hospitality, the need for adaptability in business, and the power of communication and relationships in building successful brands. The conversation emphasizes the value of generosity and kindness in professional settings, highlighting how these principles can lead to meaningful connections and opportunities.
S2 Ep 1: Venns and Vespers w/ Craig Honick
Season 2 · Episode 1
Saturday, April 19, 2025 • Duration 01:00:14
Summary:
In this episode of TaleFeather, Nick Crutchfield welcomes Craig Honick to discuss the evolving landscape of hospitality and its impact on society. They explore the significance of third spaces, the role of culture in shaping experiences, and the lessons learned from working in hospitality. The conversation delves into personal development, group dynamics, and the importance of local taverns and pubs in fostering community connections. Craig shares insights from his journey as an applied ethnographer, emphasizing the need for curiosity and understanding in navigating cultural differences. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of third spaces and the vital role they play in our lives.
Season 1- Ep. 10: The Key of C with Britiney Murphy
Season 1 · Episode 10
Thursday, August 29, 2024 • Duration 40:47
Summary:
In this episode, Nick Crutchfield interviews Britiney Murphy, a food and beverage professional in Atlanta, about the hospitality industry and the sober-ish movement. They discuss the culinary scene in Atlanta, the success of the hospitality industry, and the integration of non-alcoholic beverages in bars and restaurants. They also explore the challenges and opportunities in shaping the nightlife sector to be more inclusive and accommodating to those who choose not to drink alcohol. Britiney shares her perspective on sobriety and how she identifies as sober-ish. In this conversation, Britiney discusses her personal journey with alcohol and how she has embraced a soberish lifestyle. Britiney also talks about the importance of creating handcrafted non-alcoholic cocktails in the entertainment industry and how it enhances the overall experience for customers. Nick and Britiney discuss the different alcohol content in various beverages and the need for consumers to be aware of what they are ingesting. They also explore the concept of bespoke non-alcoholic cocktails and how they cater to different consumer preferences. In the final segment, Britiney creates a bespoke non-alcoholic cocktail inspired by Andre 3000's flute-based album.
Takeaways
The culinary scene in Atlanta is known for its fusion of Southern traditional foods and diverse cuisines, making it a hotbed for good hospitality.
There is room for growth in the integration of non-alcoholic beverages in the hospitality industry, especially in the nightlife sector.
Creating inclusive and comprehensive food and beverage programs can attract a wider range of customers and improve the volume metrics of businesses.
The sober-ish movement is gaining traction, with more people choosing not to drink alcohol, and it is important for the hospitality industry to adapt to this trend.
Sobriety affects individuals differently, and some may identify as sober-ish, finding a balance between enjoying non-alcoholic beverages and occasional alcohol consumption. Embracing a soberish lifestyle can involve indulging in non-alcoholic cocktails and spritzers instead of hard alcohol.
Handcrafted non-alcoholic cocktails enhance the overall experience in the entertainment industry.
Season 1- Ep. 9: Non-Alc in the Land Down Under with Jeremy Shipley- Discovering the flavors of Oz.
Season 1 · Episode 9
Thursday, June 6, 2024 • Duration 53:08
Summary:
In this episode, host Nick Crutchfield interviews Jeremy Shipley, a prominent figure in the non-alcoholic and low ABV fields. Jeremy shares his journey from wanting to be a primary school teacher to becoming a bartender and eventually owning his own cocktail bar. He also discusses the rise of the non-alcoholic and low alcohol movement in Australia and the challenges faced by the industry. Jeremy emphasizes the importance of quality and integrity in the non-alcoholic space and the need for inclusivity in hospitality. He also touches on the potential growth of functional beverages in the market. In this part of the conversation, Nick and Jeremy discuss flavors in the non-alcoholic space. They talk about how flavor builds trust and the importance of flavor in non-alcoholic drinks. They mention the popularity of tropical flavors like mango, passion fruit, and watermelon in their respective regions. They also discuss the resurgence of lychee and the use of yuzu in cocktails. They touch on the coffee trend, including the espresso martini and coffee Negroni. They mention the growing interest in food pairing with non-alcoholic drinks. Overall, they explore the global expansion of flavors in the non-alcoholic space. In this final part of the conversation, Jeremy and Nick discuss cafe culture and food pairings in the non-alcoholic space. They highlight the shift in restaurants' approach to non-alcoholic beverages, with many venues now offering creative and sophisticated non-alcoholic options that are designed to pair well with food. They also touch on the coffee culture in different regions, such as Australia and Fiji, and the growing trend of specialty coffee roasteries. Jeremy mentions the upcoming Dry July event in Australia and New Zealand, where venues are creating non-alcoholic menus and partnering with the Dry July Foundation to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. Overall, they emphasize the importance of inclusivity and providing a great guest experience in the non-alcoholic space.
Takeaways
Jeremy Shipley shares his journey from aspiring teacher to bartender and cocktail bar owner.
The non-alcoholic and low ABV movement is gaining traction in Australia, with Sydney and Melbourne leading the way.
Season 1, Ep. 8- Bringing the Fun to Functional Beverages with Lucas Plant
Season 1 · Episode 8
Friday, April 26, 2024 • Duration 54:14
Summary
Lucas Plant, a beverage specialist, discusses the growth and potential of functional beverages in the non-alcoholic space. He explains the role of terpenes in flavor and aroma and how they can enhance the drinking experience. Lucas also talks about the increasing demand for wellness-focused beverages and the shift towards natural and healthier ingredients. He believes that functional beverages will continue to gain popularity and coexist with traditional alcoholic beverages in the on-premise market. The conversation explores the use of whole ingredients in the cannabis and hemp industry and the potential benefits of utilizing the entire plant. It also discusses the evolving landscape of the off-premise market, particularly in relation to non-alcoholic and functional beverages. The conversation highlights the increasing options and complexity of these beverages, as well as the growing acceptance and availability of hemp-derived THC drinks in stores. It also touches on the evolving nature of communal spaces and the potential for experiential and active lifestyle events. The discussion concludes with a brief mention of distribution models for THC and CBD products.
Takeaways
Functional beverages, including those infused with terpenes, are gaining popularity in the non-alcoholic space.
Terpenes play a role in flavor and aroma and can enhance the drinking experience.
There is a growing demand for wellness-focused beverages with natural and healthier ingredients.
Functional beverages have the potential to coexist with traditional alcoholic beverages in the on-premise market. Utilizing whole ingredients in the cannabis and hemp industry can provide a range of benefits, as the whole plant contains valuable compounds and properties.
The off-premise market for non-alcoholic and functional beverages is evolving, with a growing number of options and a shift towards more complex and mature offerings.
Hemp-derived THC drinks are becoming increasingly available in stores, with dedicated aisles and endcap features, indicating positive growth and acceptance.
Communal spaces are likely to evolve towards more experiential and active lifestyle events, catering to the preferences of younger generations.
Episode 7 : Bringing the Beat Back to Better Beverage Options with Rob Nesta
Season 1 · Episode 7
Wednesday, April 10, 2024 • Duration 46:23
Summary
The conversation explores the intersections of no and low consumption models, drinking, lifestyles, and the music industry. The speakers discuss their experiences in the music industry and how they navigated the challenges of alcohol consumption. They reflect on the changes they made to their drinking habits and the impact it had on their careers. They also touch on the importance of self-awareness and mindful consumption in the DJ culture. The conversation ends with a discussion on the potential influence of cannabis consumption lounges on the no and low movement and music culture. In this episode, Nick Crutchfield and Rob Nesta discuss the intersection of the music industry and the no and low movements. They talk about how venues are adopting non-alcoholic and low-alcohol options, and how artists are becoming more conscious of their brand and choosing to live a sober lifestyle. They also discuss the impact of the no and low movements on festivals and concerts, and the importance of community in these spaces. The conversation ends with a fun impromptu question segment.
Takeaways
The music industry and alcohol consumption have been closely intertwined, but there is a growing movement towards no and low consumption models.
Self-awareness and mindful consumption are important in the DJ culture, as excessive drinking can negatively impact performance and relationships.
The top DJs in the world are increasingly embracing sobriety or non-alcoholic alternatives.
Cannabis consumption lounges have the potential to change the no and low aspect and influence music culture.
The conversation highlights the importance of finding balance and making choices that align with personal and professional goals. Venues are adopting non-alcoholic and low-alcohol options in response to the growing demand from artists and consumers.
The no and low movements are becoming mainstream and are being embraced by the music industry.
Community is an important aspect of festivals and concerts, and the no and low movements are helping to create a sense of community in these spaces.
Cocktails are playing a significant role in the no and low movements, offering interesting and diverse options for consumers.
Season 1, Ep. 6- Bringing Brands to Life Series- Part 4: Putting a Plan into Action with Anthony Pullen
Season 1 · Episode 6
Wednesday, March 13, 2024 • Duration 41:58
Summary
In this episode, Nick Crutchfield and Anthony Pullen conclude the mini-series on bringing brands to life. They discuss the steps after constructing a team, including inventory control and identifying pinch points. They also explore the importance of trade introduction and trade shows in making a brand stick. The conversation then shifts to the significance of national accounts and the impact of e-commerce and off-premise sales. They delve into the knock-on effect and how it can benefit brands. Finally, they share their top hidden spots in Las Vegas.
Season 1, Ep. 5, Bringing Brands to Life Series: The Ride Is Just Starting with Cecilia Rios Murietta
Season 1 · Episode 5
Tuesday, February 27, 2024 • Duration 44:05
Summary
In this episode, host Nick Crutchfield interviews Cecilia Rios Murrieta, owner and creator of Jas, a non-alcoholic beverage brand. Cecilia shares her background in the alcohol industry and how she transitioned to creating non-alcoholic cocktails. They discuss the importance of securing a distributor and raising capital for a startup brand. They also explore the role of trade shows in the industry and the intangible benefits of attending these events. Overall, the conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities in the non-alcoholic beverage space. In this conversation, Cecilia Rios Murrieta discusses the process of building a brand and the importance of starting slow and pacing oneself. She emphasizes the need to make mindful decisions and be strategic in resource allocation. The conversation also touches on the reception of non-alcoholic options in the market, particularly in retail spots, and the potential for growth in the non-alcoholic beverage industry. Cecilia shares information about her brand, Jas, and invites listeners to join the journey and explore their new expressions.
Takeaways
Transitioning from the alcohol industry to non-alcoholic beverages requires a shift in mindset and a focus on creating meaningful experiences.
When choosing a distributor, consider their infrastructure, reach, and relationships with retailers and buyers.
Raising capital for a startup brand can be challenging, but leveraging personal networks and attending trade shows can help connect with potential investors.
Trade shows provide an opportunity to connect with industry professionals, gather feedback, and create memorable experiences for consumers.
The intangible benefits of trade shows include building relationships, gaining exposure, and receiving real-time feedback on products.
Consumers should be aware of the alcohol content in different beverages.
Bespoke non-alcoholic cocktails cater to different consumer preferences.
Non-alcoholic cocktails can be inspired by various sources, such as music albums.
Quality and integrity are crucial in the non-alcoholic space, as some products on the market are of inferior quality.
Inclusivity is a key focus in the hospitality industry, and non-alcoholic options play a role in providing a better guest experience.
While functional beverages have yet to make a significant impact in Australia, there is potential for growth in the future. Flavor plays a crucial role in building trust in non-alcoholic drinks.
Tropical flavors like mango, passion fruit, and watermelon are popular in the non-alcoholic space.
Lychee and yuzu are experiencing a resurgence in the cocktail scene.
Coffee-based drinks like the espresso martini and coffee Negroni are still popular.
There is a growing interest in food pairing with non-alcoholic drinks. Restaurants are changing their approach to non-alcoholic beverages, offering creative and sophisticated options that pair well with food.
Coffee culture varies in different regions, with specialty coffee roasteries becoming popular.
Dry July is an important event in Australia and New Zealand, raising awareness and funds for cancer research.
Inclusivity and providing a great guest experience are key in the non-alcoholic space.
Distribution models for THC and CBD products are developing, with distributors recognizing the potential of these beverages and actively seeking to enter the market.
The music industry is evolving, and artists are becoming more conscious of their brand and the impact of their lifestyle choices.
