Explore every episode of the podcast The Whisky Warrior Podcast

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, Glen Palmer is joined by wine writer and independent consultant Desislava Lyapova to explore the fascinating intersection between fine wine, whisky, collecting, auctions and alternative investment.

Desislava shares her unconventional journey from studying theatre, film and television to discovering the cultural world of fine wine — eventually building a career around writing, consultancy and market analysis.

Together, Glen and Desislava explore:

✓ Fine wine vs whisky investing ✓ What creates collectible value ✓ Provenance, rarity and scarcity ✓ Fine wine auctions and secondary markets ✓ Why investors return to established names during downturns ✓ The power of brand equity and storytelling ✓ How wine and whisky differ as alternative assets ✓ What the two industries can learn from one another ✓ The people, places and stories behind great bottles

It's a conversation that goes beyond what's inside the bottle and explores why some wines and whiskies become desirable, collectible and valuable in the first place.

🍷 Connect with Desislava Lyapova

🔗 LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/desislava-lyapova-4b4087133 

🍷 The World of Fine Wine: https://worldoffinewine.com/ 

🔗 Connect with Glen Palmer

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/ 

🌐 Whisky Wealth Mastery: https://whiskywealthmastery.com 

📖 Download your FREE Whisky Investment Guide: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free 

🥃 Book a complimentary 15-minute discovery call: https://app.onecal.io/b/glen-palmer/15-minute-discovery-call 

🎙️ Book a Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast recording: https://app.onecal.io/b/glen-palmer/whisky-wealth-warrior-podcast 

#WineInvesting #WhiskyInvesting #FineWine #AlternativeAssets #WineInvestment #WhiskyInvestment #WhiskyWealthWarrior

The People Behind the Drinks Industry | Careers, Hiring & Leadership with Elizabeth O'Kelly

Behind every great bottle, brand and drinks business are people — and finding the right people can determine whether a company merely survives or genuinely thrives.

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, Glen Palmer is joined by Elizabeth O'Kelly, Co-Founder and Partner of VINOKELLY Drinks Recruitment.

From beginning her career in investment banking and FX to building a specialist recruitment business dedicated to the drinks sector, Elizabeth has developed a fascinating perspective on careers, leadership, hiring, personality and workplace culture.

Together, Glen and Elizabeth explore what makes people successful, why careers aren't linear, why founders don't necessarily make great leaders, and why seemingly insignificant professional relationships can ultimately transform your career.

🥃 You'll discover:

✅ Why curiosity and adaptability are powerful career traits ✅ Why specialising can help your career — until it doesn't ✅ The difference between founders and leaders ✅ Why businesses lose talented employees ✅ What personality profiling can reveal ✅ Why onboarding and culture matter as much as recruitment ✅ Why career expectations are changing ✅ Why the drinks industry often seems to “choose” people ✅ Why money isn't the only thing driving career decisions ✅ Why small professional interactions compound over time ✅ How weak connections can lead to unexpected opportunities ✅ Elizabeth's advice for breaking into the drinks industry ✅ Why trying too hard to “stand out” can actually be the wrong strategy

👤 Connect with Elizabeth O'Kelly Elizabeth's

LinkedIn

 https://www.linkedin.com/in/eokelly/ 

LinkedIn Company Page

https://www.linkedin.com/company/vinokelly/?utm_source=chatgpt%2Ecom&originalSubdomain=uk 

🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/ 

🌐 Whisky Wealth Mastery https://whiskywealthmastery.com 

📖 Download your FREE Whisky Investment Guide https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free 

🥃 Interested in whisky cask investing? Book a complimentary 15-minute discovery call to discuss your goals: https://app.onecal.io/b/glen-palmer/15-minute-discovery-call 

🎙️ Do you work in the whisky or wider spirits industry? If you'd like to be a guest on the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, you can book your recording slot here:

https://app.onecal.io/b/glen-palmer/whisky-wealth-warrior-podcast 

 

 

#WhiskyWealthWarrior #DrinksIndustry #DrinksCareers #DrinksRecruitment #WhiskyIndustry #WineIndustry #SpiritsIndustry #Leadership #Recruitment #VINOKELLY #ElizabethOKelly #GlenPalmer

I particularly like the “Does the drinks industry choose you?” angle from this episode, Glen. That's a cracking hook for one of the Shorts and the social campaign too.

 

 

What happens when a man spends 31 years serving in the United States Special Forces and then decides to dedicate himself to one of Mexico’s oldest and most respected traditions?

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, Glen Palmer sits down with Sean Keane, founder of O’Kahan Agave, to explore an incredible journey of reinvention, craftsmanship and purpose.

Sean shares how a lifetime of discipline, resilience and leadership eventually led him to rural Mexico, where he immersed himself in the world of authentic mezcal production. Living and learning alongside a sixth-generation mezcalero, Sean set out to create a brand that honours tradition while building a bridge between Irish heritage and Mexican culture.

In this episode we discuss:

🥃 Sean’s 31-year Special Forces career 🌵 Why he fell in love with mezcal 🇲🇽 Living and learning in rural Mexico 🔥 Traditional mezcal production methods 🍀 The story behind O’Kahan Agave 💡 Building a premium spirits brand from scratch 🎯 Lessons on discipline, leadership and reinvention

This isn’t simply a conversation about mezcal.

It’s a story about finding a new mission in life and having the courage to pursue it.

Connect With Sean:

Website: https://okahanagave.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/okahanagave

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okahanagave

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkv-34rsTVFwLQElyhFyhig

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanokahanagave/

Connect With Glen: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whiskywealthmastery

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskywealthmastery/

X: https://x.com/GlenPInvest

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whiskywealthmastery?lang=en

If you’ve ever wondered whether whisky could be something you own, grow, and monetise — not just drink — you can download a free guide here: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free to get started on your whisky investment journey.

 

n this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, Glen Palmer sits down with Peter Bignell of Belgrove Distillery and Chris Greta from Still Life Stories for a fascinating conversation about innovation, sustainability and the art of doing things differently.

Belgrove Distillery has earned a reputation as one of the most unique distilleries in the world, producing award-winning whisky using methods that challenge convention and celebrate true farm-to-bottle craftsmanship.

The discussion covers:

• The origins of Belgrove Distillery • Sustainable whisky production • The famous sheep manure smoked whisky • Growing grain and producing whisky on-site • Distilling innovation and experimentation • The challenges facing independent distilleries • Authenticity, terroir and storytelling

Peter’s unconventional approach has made Belgrove one of the most talked-about distilleries in Tasmania and a favourite subject for whisky enthusiasts around the world.

Whether you’re interested in whisky, entrepreneurship, sustainability or simply hearing the story of someone who refused to follow the crowd, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

 

Connect With Peter at Belgrove Distillery:

Website: https://belgrovedistillery.com.au/pages/contact

 

Connect With Chris at Still Life Stories:

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@chrisgreta?si=3PAS25oC85yNBfAi

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisgreta/

 

Connect With Glen: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whiskywealthmastery

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskywealthmastery/

X: https://x.com/GlenPInvest

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whiskywealthmastery?lang=en

If you’ve ever wondered whether whisky could be something you own, grow, and monetise — not just drink — you can download a free guide here: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free to get started on your whisky investment journey.

 

In the last episode of series 2 of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, Glen Palmer sits down with Richard Wells from World of Whisky for a grounded and honest conversation about the whisky cask investment market.

 

Together, they explore: 🥃 how professional cask selection actually works 🥃 what separates quality casks from hype 🥃 the importance of documentation, warehousing & ownership 🥃 blue-chip vs emerging distilleries 🥃 scarcity, maturation & long-term value 🥃 the role independent bottlers play in the market 🥃 common mistakes new investors make 🥃 how serious investors should think about exit strategy

 

The conversation also addresses the recent scrutiny surrounding whisky investment scams and discusses what responsible due diligence should look like before transferring a single penny.

This is not a “get rich quick” conversation.

It’s a realistic discussion about patience, scarcity, strategy, and understanding whisky as a long-term alternative asset.

Whether you’re completely new to whisky cask investing or already building a portfolio, this episode offers valuable insight into how experienced professionals assess opportunities within the market.

 

Connect With Richard at World Of Whisky:

Website: https://worldofwhisky.co.uk

Connect With Glen: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whiskywealthmastery

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskywealthmastery/

X: https://x.com/GlenPInvest

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whiskywealthmastery?lang=en

If you’ve ever wondered whether whisky could be something you own, grow, and monetise — not just drink — you can download a free guide here: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free to get started on your whisky investment journey.

 

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, Glen Palmer speaks with Aryn Pepper, founder of The Good Shrub Club, about what really makes drinks brands succeed in today’s market.

From cocktail culture and shrubs to storytelling, branding, hospitality, and consumer psychology, this conversation dives deep into the realities of building a modern premium drinks business.

Aryn shares how a simple problem behind the bar became the foundation for a fast-growing brand — and why authenticity, flavour, and emotional connection matter more than ever in the drinks industry.

Topics include: • Building a drinks brand from scratch • Consumer behaviour & modern buying psychology • The rise of non-alcoholic alternatives • Entrepreneurship & hospitality culture • Storytelling as a competitive advantage • How independent brands stand out

Connect With Aryn:

Website: https://splittree.ca

                https://thegoodshrubclub.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arynpepper/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegoodshrubclub/

 

Connect With Glen: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whiskywealthmastery

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskywealthmastery/

X: https://x.com/GlenPInvest

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whiskywealthmastery?lang=en

 

If you’ve ever wondered whether whisky could be something you own, grow, and monetise — not just drink — you can download a free guide here: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free to get started on your whisky investment journey.

 

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, host Glen Palmer sits down with spirits consultant Ryan Guevara to explore the psychology behind premium spirits brands, customer behavior, and what actually drives long-term success in the drinks industry.

With a background in psychology and experience working across wine and spirits at a national level, Ryan shares insights into:

• Why most brands struggle to stand out
• The hidden psychology behind premium perception
• What bar owners and consumers really care about
• How storytelling influences buying decisions
• Why modern consumers are changing the future of alcohol

The conversation also dives into branding, social media, distribution strategy, customer relationships, and the importance of solving problems rather than simply selling products.

From whiskey and mezcal to functional beverages and emerging trends, this is a fascinating look into where the spirits industry is heading next.

Connect with Ryan Guevara:

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-guevara12301993/ 📧 Email: rguevara1230@gmail.com

Connect With Glen: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whiskywealthmastery

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskywealthmastery/

X: https://x.com/GlenPInvest

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whiskywealthmastery?lang=en

If you’ve ever wondered whether whisky could be something you own, grow, and monetise — not just drink — you can download a free guide here: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free to get started on your whisky investment journey.

 

This episode goes beyond bourbon.

Levin Woodall from Weldon Mills Distillery joins me for a conversation that dives into identity, authenticity, and what it really takes to build a brand in today’s spirits market.

From navigating the complexities of the North Carolina ABC system to building relationships that actually drive sales, Levin shares a grounded, real-world perspective on the industry.

Key themes include:

• Authenticity vs “playing the role” in business
• The power of story in selling premium spirits
• Why local-first thinking is reshaping distillery growth
• The future of bourbon and craft spirits

This is less about whisky… and more about how you build something that actually lasts.

Connect with Levin

Website: https://weldonmills.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weldon.mills/

e-mail: levin.woodall@weldonmills.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/levin-w-a64b442b3/

Connect With Glen: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GlenLKPalmer

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskywealthmastery/

X: https://x.com/GlenPInvest

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whiskywealthmastery?lang=en

If you’ve ever wondered whether whisky could be something you own, grow, and monetise — not just drink — you can download a free guide here: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free to get started on your whisky investment journey.

In this powerful episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, host Glen Palmer is joined by Chris Greta of Still Life Stories and Bill McHenry, founder of McHenry Distillery in Tasmania.

This is not just a conversation about whisky. It is a story about legacy, loss, patience, place, and what it really takes to build something meaningful in one of the most remote distilling locations in the world.

Bill shares the deeply personal journey behind McHenry Distillery — from corporate uncertainty to building a family legacy on the southern edge of Tasmania. Chris brings his storyteller’s eye to the conversation, revealing what makes small, independent distilleries so special and why the best whisky stories are often hidden in inconvenient places.

Together, they explore terroir, Tasmanian spring water, slow maturation, cask ownership, family, resilience, and the emotional weight behind every bottle.

Connect with Bill

website: https://mchenrydistillery.com.au

Connect with Chris

website: https://thestilllifestories.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisgreta/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChrisGreta

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris.greta/

Connect With Glen: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GlenLKPalmer

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskywealthmastery/

X: https://x.com/GlenPInvest

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whiskywealthmastery?lang=en

If you’ve ever wondered whether whisky could be something you own, grow, and monetise — not just drink — you can download a free guide here: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free to get started on your whisky investment journey.

 

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior podcast, host Glen Palmer speaks with alternative investment specialist Sandhya Seshadri, who works across oil & gas, real estate syndications, and private credit to help investors diversify beyond traditional markets.

Sandhya shares a deep dive into how experienced investors think about risk, liquidity, tax efficiency, and long-term wealth building in today’s volatile market conditions. The conversation explores the trade-offs between short-term income and long-term appreciation, and how alternative assets can play a powerful role in building a resilient portfolio.

From oil & gas tax advantages to real estate cycles, private credit, and even whisky as a legacy investment, this episode breaks down what actually matters when allocating capital.

If you’re serious about thinking beyond stocks and building long-term wealth intelligently, this is one to listen to.

Connect with Sandhya: 🌐 https://engineeredcapital.com 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/engineered-capital/

 

Connect with Glen:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

If you’ve ever wondered whether whisky could be something you own, grow, and monetise — not just drink — you can download a free guide here:

https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free to get started on your whisky investment journey.

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, host Glen Palmer sits down with Kelley Duggan, founder of Bewilder Bewilder — a truly unique brand pushing the boundaries of what whisky can be.

Kelley shares her journey from hospitality and business development into launching one of the most unconventional whisky concepts out there: a wild forest mushroom-infused whisky. This isn’t just about flavour — it’s about experience, creativity, and redefining how we connect with what we drink.

The conversation dives into the inspiration behind the brand, the science and experimentation involved in mushroom infusion, and the challenges of building something completely new in a traditional, male-dominated industry. Kelley also opens up about the realities of starting from scratch, navigating distribution, and turning a bold idea into a growing business.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in whisky innovation, brand building, or thinking differently about opportunity in the spirits industry.

To find out more about Kelley and Bewilder Bewilder: Website: https://www.bewilderbewilder.com e-mail: contact@bewilderbewilder.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bewilderbewilder Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bewilderbewilderwhiskey

 

And to explore how whisky can play a role in long-term wealth strategies: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior podcast, host Glen Palmer sits down with Ryan Provost, co-founder and CEO of BoozBox — a premium ready-to-drink cocktail brand bringing bar-quality drinks into a convenient, scalable format.

Ryan shares his journey from producing content for major platforms like Forbes and Vice, to building a drinks brand born during the uncertainty of the 2020 pandemic. What started as an idea around a kitchen table has evolved into a fast-growing brand now operating across multiple US markets. 

The conversation dives into:

• Turning a simple idea into a fully launched product

• The realities of building a drinks brand from scratch

• Why storytelling and content are a competitive advantage

• The challenges of breaking perception around boxed drinks

• Pricing strategy, margins, and scaling in the RTD market

• Targeting the next generation of consumers

Ryan also shares how BoozBox is positioning itself in a crowded RTD space, balancing quality, convenience, and affordability to drive repeat purchases and long-term growth.

This episode is ideal for entrepreneurs, brand builders, and investors looking to understand what it really takes to launch and scale a modern drinks brand.

Connect with Ryan:

• BoozBox Website: https://www.drinkboozbox.com
• Ryan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanprovostofficial/
• BoozBox LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/boozbox/

• BoozBox Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boozbox/

Connect with Glen:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

If you’ve ever wondered whether whisky could be something you own, grow, and monetise — not just drink — you can download a free guide here: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free to get started on your whisky investment journey.

 

🍷 Is English wine entering its breakthrough moment?

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, Glen Palmer sits down with Martyn Pollock of Nine Oaks Vineyard to explore the remarkable rise of English wine — and what it really takes to build a vineyard from scratch.

Martyn's journey has taken him from growing up beside Oban Distillery to military service, engineering, renewable energy and diplomacy before he and his wife made a life-changing decision: sell their home and pursue their dream of creating a vineyard.

Today, Nine Oaks produces small-batch, estate-grown wines from its boutique vineyard in Kent.

🍇 Glen and Martyn discuss: ✔️ Building Nine Oaks Vineyard from scratch ✔️ The rise of English wine ✔️ Entrepreneurship, risk and embracing failure ✔️ Selling the family home to fund a dream ✔️ English terroir and unpredictable weather ✔️ Sustainable vineyard management ✔️ English wine versus Champagne ✔️ Building an authentic premium brand ✔️Wine and whisky cask experimentation ✔️ The future of the English wine industry

It's a fascinating conversation about wine, whisky, entrepreneurship, farming, resilience and building something for the long term.

🍷 Connect with Martyn Pollock 

👤 Martyn Pollock – LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/martyn-pollock-a66a0681/ 

🍇 Nine Oaks Vineyard – Official Website Visit Nine Oaks Vineyard : https://www.nine-oaks.co.uk/ 

 

🥃 Connect with Glen Palmer

🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/ 

🌐 Whisky Wealth Mastery https://whiskywealthmastery.com 

📖 Download your FREE Whisky Investment Guide https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free 

🥃 Interested in whisky cask investing?  Book a complimentary 15-minute discovery call to discuss your investment goals: https://app.onecal.io/b/glen-palmer/15-minute-discovery-call 

🎙️ Do you work in the whisky or wider spirits industry? If you'd like to be a guest on the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, you can book your recording slot here: https://app.onecal.io/b/glen-palmer/whisky-wealth-warrior-podcast 

🎧 Listen on Podbean: https://whiskywealthwarrior.podbean.com/

#EnglishWine #NineOaksVineyard #MartynPollock #KentWine #WinePodcast #Entrepreneurship #EnglishVineyard #WhiskyWealthWarrior

 

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior podcast, host Glen Palmer sits down with Kevin Meller, CEO of Cali Beverages — a bold new ready-to-drink (RTD) brand aiming to shake up a crowded market with fresh thinking, real ingredients, and standout branding.

Kevin shares how his background in hospitality, wine, and customer experience shaped his approach to building a drinks brand that prioritises fun, accessibility, and connection over industry pretension.

The conversation explores:

• Why the RTD market is booming — and how to stand out

• The problem with traditional wine culture and how to break it

• Building a brand that creates emotion, experience, and “noise”

• The power of scent, packaging, and in-store experience

• Why partnerships and brand alignment matter more than ever

• Scaling strategies: deep vs wide market penetration

Kevin also discusses the upcoming launch of Cali Beverages across Total Wine and BevMo stores in California, and how they plan to build strong local brand loyalty before expanding further. 

This episode is ideal for entrepreneurs, drinks industry professionals, and investors looking to understand what it really takes to build and launch a standout brand in today’s competitive market.

          Connect with Kevin:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-mellor-59b6ab151/

• Follow Cali Beverages (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/calibeverages/

• Connect With Glen: 

  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

  If you’ve ever wondered whether whisky could be something you own, grow, and monetise — not just drink — you can download a free guide here: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free to get started on your whisky investment journey.

 

In this episode of the Whiskey Wealth Warrior podcast, host Glen Palmer sits down with Benyea D Hurst, founder and CEO of Benny Red Vodka — a premium brand built from the ground up through persistence, vision, and real-world customer insight.

From working behind the bar at Applebee’s to launching his own spirits brand, Benyea shares the journey, mindset, and challenges that shaped Benny Red into what it is today.

The conversation dives into:

• The moment Benyea decided to build his own vodka brand

• Why distribution is the biggest early challenge in spirits

• How being “too early” can hold a brand back

• The power of customer experience over product alone

• What makes a premium spirits brand stand out in a crowded market

• Why consistency and persistence are the real keys to success

Benyea also shares his perspective on where the spirits industry is heading, including the rise of RTDs (ready-to-drink) and the long-term opportunity within premium brands. 

This episode is a must-listen for aspiring brand builders, entrepreneurs, and investors looking to understand the realities behind launching and scaling a spirits brand.

 

Connect with Benyea:

Benny Red Vodka: https://www.benniereddvodka.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bennyredofficial

 

Connect with Glen:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

If you’ve ever wondered whether whisky could be something you own, grow, and monetise — not just drink — you can download a free guide here: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free to get started on your whisky investment journey.

 

 

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior podcast, host Glen Palmer speaks with Eric Schinske, Co-Owner and CEO of EP Winters and a key force behind the growth of American Made beverages in the highly competitive Tampa Bay market.

Eric shares his journey from fast-paced medical startups into the beverage industry, revealing the realities of launching and scaling a premium spirits brand from the ground up.

The conversation dives into:

• What actually gets a beverage brand onto shelves

• Why local relationships and storytelling outperform big budgets

• The importance of distribution partnerships and “caring” in business

• How small bars and independent retailers can outperform large chains

• The balance between brand integrity, cost, and scaling decisions

• Common mistakes new spirits brands make in their early years

This episode is especially valuable for whisky investors, independent bottlers, and entrepreneurs looking to build their own brand — offering a behind-the-scenes look at what truly drives success in the beverage industry. 

Connect With Eric:

Eric Schinske (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-schinske-msw-97039366/

American Made Beverages: https://americanmadebeverages.com

Connect With Glen: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

If you’ve ever wondered whether whisky could be something you own, grow, and monetise — not just drink — you can download a free guide here: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free

to get started on your whisky investment journey.

 

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior podcast, host Glen Palmer speaks with Michael Waskewich Jr, retired US Army Sergeant Major turned tech founder and co-creator of The Bar Book — a flavour-first discovery platform designed to help consumers find their next favourite whisky without costly trial and error.

Michael shares how his military leadership background shaped his entrepreneurial journey, why traditional spirit discovery is broken, and how flavour-driven algorithms are helping both consumers and craft producers level the playing field.

The conversation explores:

• Why most whisky discovery methods overlook hidden gems

• How flavour-first algorithms improve bottle selection

• The role of data in whisky discovery and investing

• How craft brands can scale without huge marketing budgets

• The C.R.A.F.T initiative supporting veterans in the beverage industry

• How technology may reshape whisky collecting and investing

Michael also discusses how consumer preference data could influence future production and why collaboration between data platforms and distilleries will be a major industry shift. 

Links mentioned in this episode:

• The Bar Book App: https://thebarbook.app

• Support C.R.A.F.T: https://supportcraft.org

• Free Whisky Wealth Guide: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free

• Glen Palmer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

 

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, host Glen Palmer speaks with Vikas Thakker, founder of Vintage Brewery UK Limited, about building a premium drinks brand from the ground up. Vikas shares the journey behind creating Barhi Mead, the world’s first sparkling date based mead designed to complement spice rich cuisines and elevate the dining experience. The conversation explores patience in entrepreneurship, the craftsmanship behind innovative beverages, and the parallels between building a mead brand and investing in premium whisky.

And to learn more about Whisky Wealth Mastery, where whisky lovers go to learn the investment side of the spirit properly and responsibly, go to: Personal LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/ Whisky Wealth Mastery LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/company/whisky-wealth-mastery/

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, host Glen Palmer is joined by Octavio Arzate, CEO & Founder of Luhulaa Tradiciones de Mexico, CEO of Luhulaa Mezcal and Marlin Fish and Beer, alongside Miguel Cruz, Director of Operations at Luhulaa Tradiciones de México. They explore the deep cultural roots of mezcal, the differences between mezcal and tequila, and how Luhulaa Mezcal preserves ancestral production methods while building a sustainable, globally recognized premium spirits brand. The conversation highlights sustainability, storytelling, rare aged batches, and why mezcal may follow a similar path to premium whiskey as both a heritage product and a long-term collectible asset.

And to learn more about Whisky Wealth Mastery, where whisky lovers go to learn the investment side of the spirit properly and responsibly, go to: Personal LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/ Whisky Wealth Mastery LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/company/whisky-wealth-mastery/

Glen Palmer sits down with Conor Begley, co-founder and president of Fathers Beer, to break down how he built an award-winning “clean beer” brand and scaled it at speed. Conor shares the playbook behind landing major retail distribution fast, raising over $1M from high-profile investors, and why transparency and taste are the real trust-builders in a crowded category. The conversation also draws parallels for whiskey cask investors looking to build their own brands the right way.

And to learn more about Whisky Wealth Mastery, where whisky lovers go to learn the investment side of the spirit properly and responsibly, go to: Personal LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/ Whisky Wealth Mastery LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/company/whisky-wealth-mastery/

Host Glen Palmer sits down with Craig Potter, co-founder and CEO of Soda Jerk LLC, to break down what it really takes to launch and scale a spirits brand, from raising early capital to securing reliable distribution across 20+ states. Craig shares how an influencer-driven strategy created retail pull during COVID and how earning Walmart’s “Golden Ticket” in California reshaped the brand’s growth playbook. Along the way, he connects spirits, real estate, and entrepreneurship with a clear theme: build a strong foundation, deliver consistent value, and let trust turn selling into confirmation.

And to learn more about Whisky Wealth Mastery, where whisky lovers go to learn the investment side of the spirit properly and responsibly, go to: Personal LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/ Whisky Wealth Mastery LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/company/whisky-wealth-mastery/

In this episode of Whisky Wealth Warrior, host Glen Palmer is joined by Alistair MacDonald, Founder of Barley Nectar and independent bottler behind Castle Bay, whose family has been in the whisky industry since the 1820s. Alistair shares candid insights into today’s cask market, the realities of independent bottling, and why clarity of purpose is essential before buying a whisky cask. The conversation also explores market corrections, regauging risks, long-term thinking, and how passion, not hype, should drive both collecting and investing in whisky.

And to learn more about Whisky Wealth Mastery, where whisky lovers go to learn the investment side of the spirit properly and responsibly, go to: Personal LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/ Whisky Wealth Mastery LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/company/whisky-wealth-mastery/

In this episode of Whisky Wealth Warriors, host Glen Palmer sits down with Harry McKaig, CEO of Double Cross Vodka, to explore the evolving global spirits landscape and the commercial levers that drive billion dollar beverage brands. Harry shares insights from scaling CPG companies to over 1 billion in revenue, discussing premiumisation, pricing power, supply chain pressures, and how strategy shapes long term brand value. The conversation also dives into spirits as an alternative asset class, unpacking scarcity, aged stock, and why well positioned brands can offer compelling opportunities for both individual and institutional investors.

And to learn more about Whisky Wealth Mastery, where whisky lovers go to learn the investment side of the spirit properly and responsibly, go to: Personal LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/ Whisky Wealth Mastery LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/company/whisky-wealth-mastery/

 What happens when two sisters spot a gap in the market and refuse to accept the status quo?

In this episode, Glen Palmer is joined by Raissa De Haas, Co-Founder of Double Dutch Drinks, to discuss how she and her twin sister Joyce built one of the world's fastest-growing premium mixer brands from the ground up.

Today, Double Dutch is enjoyed in more than 45 countries, but the journey has been anything but straightforward.

Raissa shares the realities of entrepreneurship, the importance of execution over ideas, overcoming scepticism, building a brand with personality and authenticity, expanding internationally, balancing commercial success with sustainability, and why resilience is one of the most valuable qualities any entrepreneur can possess.

Whether you're building a business, working in the drinks industry or simply enjoy hearing inspiring founder stories, this episode is packed with valuable lessons.

In this episode:

✔  The story behind Double Dutch Drinks ✔ Scaling into 45+ countries ✔ Building a premium global brand ✔ Entrepreneurship and resilience ✔ Branding and authenticity ✔ Sustainability and B Corp certification ✔ Women in the drinks industry ✔ Leadership and business growth ✔ Advice for future founders

Connect with Glen Palmer

🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/ 

🌐 Whisky Wealth Mastery https://whiskywealthmastery.com 

📖 Download your FREE Whisky Investment Guide https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free 

🥃 Interested in whisky cask investing? Book a complimentary 15-minute discovery call: https://app.onecal.io/b/glen-palmer/15-minute-discovery-call 

🎙️ Want to be a guest on the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast? Book your recording slot here: https://app.onecal.io/b/glen-palmer/whisky-wealth-warrior-podcast 

Learn more about Double Dutch

🌐 https://doubledutchdrinks.com 

📸 Instagram: @doubledutchdrinks 

💼 LinkedIn: Raissa De Haas

 

In this episode, Glen Palmer sits down with Nicholas Cain, a Houston based food service designer with deep roots in hospitality and the wine trade, to explore what draws people to whisky beyond the glass. They discuss storytelling, provenance, and how whisky culture compares to wine when it comes to collecting, enjoyment, and long term value. The conversation offers a thoughtful perspective on whisky as both a passion and a potential alternative asset for curious enthusiasts.

And to learn more about Whisky Wealth Mastery, where whisky lovers go to learn the investment side of the spirit properly and responsibly, go to: Personal LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/ Whisky Wealth Mastery LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/company/whisky-wealth-mastery/

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, host Glen Palmer speaks with Cameron Jessiman, Director of CJ’s Cask Company, a whiskey cask broker with hands on experience inside bonded warehouses. Cameron shares what really happens to casks during maturation, the risks investors often overlook, and why wood quality, regauging, and trusted relationships matter. The conversation offers a practical, ground level view of whiskey as a long term asset, from warehouse realities to smarter cask selection.   And to learn more about Whisky Wealth Mastery, where whisky lovers go to learn the investment side of the spirit properly and responsibly, go to:   Personal LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/   Whisky Wealth Mastery LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/company/whisky-wealth-mastery/ 

Behind every successful bottle on the shelf is a talented team—and finding those people is exactly what Emma Forster has dedicated her career to.

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, Glen Palmer sits down with Emma Forster, Director of Drinks at New Chapter Consulting, to explore what it really takes to build exceptional teams in the drinks industry.

Over nearly 16 years, Emma has worked with everyone from ambitious start-ups to global names including Bacardi, Rémy Cointreau, Heineken, LVMH, Seedlip and Lucky Saint, helping identify the people who build brands, launch products and drive businesses forward.

Together they discuss:

✅ Why networking can transform your career

✅ The qualities recruiters value most

✅ Start-up culture versus corporate recruitment

✅ Building personal brands in today's drinks industry

✅ How employers attract and retain great talent

✅ Career advice for anyone wanting to work in spirits, wine or beer

Whether you're already working in the industry or dreaming of joining it, this episode offers valuable insight from someone who's spent almost two decades helping shape the people behind the brands.

🥃 Connect with Emma Forster 🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmaforster-recruiter-drinks/ 

🌐 New Chapter Consulting https://newchapter.co.uk/ 

🥃 Connect with Glen Palmer 🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

🌐 Whisky Wealth Mastery https://whiskywealthmastery.com 

📖 Download your FREE Whisky Investment Guide https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free 

🥃 Interested in whisky cask investing? Book a complimentary 15-minute discovery call to discuss your investment goals: https://app.onecal.io/b/glen-palmer/15-minute-discovery-call 

🎙️ Do you work in the whisky or wider spirits industry? If you'd like to be a guest on the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, you can book your recording slot here: https://app.onecal.io/b/glen-palmer/whisky-wealth-warrior-podcast 

🎧 Listen on Podbean: https://whiskywealthwarrior.podbean.com/

 

 Most people know whisky is matured in oak barrels—but very few understand the incredible science taking place inside every cask.

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, I sit down with Matt Burgess, Founder of MB Consultancy, former Diageo Wood & Cask Scientist, and former specialist at the legendary Speyside Cooperage.

With nearly two decades of experience in whisky maturation, wood science and cask development, Matt takes us behind the scenes to explain how casks influence flavour, quality and ultimately the value of every whisky.

Whether you're a whisky enthusiast, distiller, collector or whisky cask investor, this episode will completely change the way you think about maturation.

In this episode we discuss:

✔️ What really happens inside a whisky cask

✔️ First Fill vs Refill casks

✔️ Bourbon, Sherry and exotic cask maturation

✔️ Why oak species matter

✔️ Climate change and its impact on whisky

✔️ The biggest mistakes distilleries make

✔️ Choosing the right cask for long-term whisky investment

✔️ The future of whisky maturation

 

Connect with Matt Burgess

🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-alun-burgess/ 

📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gid_wi_wid/

 

🥃 Connect with Glen Palmer

🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/ 

🌐 Whisky Wealth Mastery https://whiskywealthmastery.com 

📖 Download your FREE Whisky Investment Guide https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free

 

Interested in whisky cask investing? Book a complimentary 15-minute discovery call to discuss your goals: https://app.onecal.io/b/glen-palmer/15-minute-discovery-call

 

🎙️ Do you work in the whisky or wider spirits industry? If you'd like to be a guest on the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, you can book your recording slot here: https://app.onecal.io/b/glen-palmer/whisky-wealth-warrior-podcast

 

What does it take to build some of the world’s most recognisable drinks brands?

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, Glen Palmer has the absolute pleasure of interviewing an absolute legend in the sprits industry James Espey OBE—he is one of the most influential figures the global spirits industry has ever produced.

Over a career spanning more than five decades, James has helped shape iconic brands including Baileys, Malibu, Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Chivas Regal 18, and The Classic Malts. He’s also the founder of the prestigious Keepers of the Quaich, recognising outstanding contributions to Scotch whisky worldwide.

This isn’t just a conversation about whisky.

It’s a masterclass in leadership, marketing, entrepreneurship and building brands that stand the test of time.

In this episode we discuss:

🥃 How some of the world’s biggest spirits brands were created

🚀 Why great brands are built over years, not months

🤝 James’ philosophy of leadership and teamwork

📈 The biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make when growing a business

🌍 How Scotch whisky became a truly global product

🏆 The story behind the Keepers of the Quaich

💡 The importance of patience, vision and long-term thinking

Whether you’re passionate about whisky, building a business or simply love hearing stories from industry legends, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Connect with James Espey

🌐 James Espey OBE: https://www.jamesespey.com

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-espey-obe-42309ba/

🏅 Keepers of the Quaich: https://www.keepersofthequaich.co.uk

Free Whisky Investing Guide

If you’d like to learn how whisky casks can become part of a long-term investment portfolio, download my free guide:

🥃 https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free

The Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast brings you conversations with distillers, founders, investors and industry pioneers from around the world, uncovering the people, stories and strategies behind some of the greatest spirits ever created.

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a review and share it with someone who loves great stories and great spirits. 🥃🍻

What if the search for gold led you to discover something even more valuable?

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, Glen Palmer is joined by Paul Shand, founder of Tria Prima Distillery, alongside returning guest Chris Greta from Still Life Stories, for a fascinating conversation about science, storytelling and the pursuit of exceptional whisky.

Paul’s journey is anything but ordinary. After a distinguished career as a geochemist, he left the world of scientific research to follow a lifelong passion for whisky. The result was Tria Prima Distillery—an award-winning Australian distillery inspired by the ancient principles of alchemy, where barley, water and oak become modern-day “liquid gold.”

Together we explore how science shapes great whisky, why branding matters just as much as what’s in the bottle, and why helping others may be the greatest legacy a distiller can leave.

In this episode:

🥃 Paul’s remarkable journey from geochemist to award-winning distiller

⚗️ The fascinating story behind the name Tria Prima

🏆 How science influences fermentation, distillation and maturation

🎨 Why Tria Prima’s branding has become as distinctive as its whisky

📖 Chris Greta’s passion for discovering hidden whisky stories

🌏 The rise of Australian single malt whisky

🥃 What it really takes to create “liquid gold”

Connect with Tria Prima Distillery

🌐 Website: https://triaprima.com.au

📧 Email: info@triaprima.com

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TriaPrimaWhisky/

📸 Instagram: @triaprimawhisky

Still Life Stories

🌐 https://stilllifestories.com

🎥 Youtube: Still Life Stories

 

Free Whisky Investing Guide

If you’d like to learn how whisky casks can become part of a long-term investment portfolio, download my free guide:

🥃 https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free 

Whisky Wealth Warrior brings you conversations with distillers, founders, investors and storytellers from across the world, uncovering the people, passion and purpose behind great spirits.

#Whisky #AustralianWhisky #SingleMalt #TriaPrima #PaulShand #ChrisGreta #StillLifeStories #CraftSpirits #Distillery #WhiskyPodcast #WhiskyWealthWarrior

What happens when you bring new life to one of Australia’s oldest whisky sites?

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, Glen Palmer is joined by Lucy O’Brien, John Ramsay, and whisky storyteller Chris Greta to explore the remarkable revival of Clyde Mill Distillery in Bothwell, Tasmania.

From the history of the old mill and the unique character of Tasmanian whisky to gin production, wildlife, and the now-famous resident platypus, this conversation is about far more than what’s inside the bottle. It’s about heritage, craftsmanship, community and preserving something special for future generations.

In this episode:

🥃 The story behind the revival of Clyde Mill Distillery

🏛️ Why history and place matter in whisky making

🌿 What makes Tasmanian whisky unique

🍸 The distillery’s approach to gin and flavour

🦆 The legendary Clyde Mill platypus

🌎 Tasmania’s growing reputation on the world whisky stage

📖 Why every great distillery has a story worth telling

Connect with Clyde Mill Distillery

📸 Instagram: @clydemilldistillery 

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clydemillbothwell 

📧 Email: distillery@clydemill.com.au or hello@clydemill.com.au 

🌐 Website: https://clydemill.com.au 

Still Life Stories

🌐 https://stilllifestories.com 

Free Whisky Investing Guide

Download your free guide at:

🌐 https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free 

Whisky Wealth Warrior brings you conversations with distillers, founders, investors and storytellers from around the world who understand that great spirits—and great businesses—are built for the long game. 🥃

What does it take to build a drinks brand that lasts?

In this episode of the Whisky Wealth Warrior Podcast, Glen Palmer sits down with Adrianne Baumann, co-founder of Legend Cider, to explore the journey from a small family operation to securing distribution with Budweiser in Oregon.

Together they discuss the realities of building a business from scratch, the importance of patience, why chasing trends can be dangerous, and how focusing on quality and consistency has helped Legend Cider carve out its own niche in a crowded market.

Adrianne also explains how Legend Cider became known as the “Beer Drinker Cider”, why they use beer yeast instead of traditional cider yeast, and why sometimes the best strategy is simply sticking with what works.

In this episode:

• How Legend Cider started as a family venture • The challenges of self-funding a drinks brand • Why more knowledge beats more money • Building a loyal customer base over a decade • Securing distribution with Budweiser • Experimenting with flavour and barrel ageing • Why consistency beats chasing every trend • Playing the long game in business

Learn More About Legend Cider

🌐 Website: https://www.legendcider.com

📧 Email Adrianne: adrienne@legendcider.com

📍 Visit their taprooms in La Pine and Talent, Oregon

 

Connect With Glen: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-palmer-online/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whiskywealthmastery

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskywealthmastery/

X: https://x.com/GlenPInvest

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whiskywealthmastery?lang=en

 

If you’ve ever wondered whether whisky could be something you own, grow, and monetise — not just drink — you can download a free guide here: https://whiskywealthmastery.com/free to get started on your whisky investment journey.