Cocktail Classified

Season 2 Episode 24: Jacki Schromm of Donna's Houston

From sports bars to bar ownership, Jacki walks us through her journey in the industry and the importance of hospitality. As she said "You have the power to turn someone's bad day around with just a smile and a drink.”. We couldn’t agree more! ••••••• In this week’s episode, we are joined by: Jacki Schromm, co-owner of recently opened Donna’s in Houston, TX. In this episode, we talk about her start in the industry from Florida, Boston, to Houston and now bar ownership. We dive into hospitality, Speed Rack, cocktail competitions, regional taste differences, community importance, bar ownership, menu flips, and staff mentoring. This one is not to be missed! Special Guests: * Jacki Schromm @houstonlibations of Donna’s Houston @donnashouston Produced by Shift Change Creative and hosted by: Patrick Abalos @mixmanpatrick. Special thanks to the Jacki for recording with us in her bar!

Season 2 Episode 23: Andrew Solis of Cut Above Zero Proof

From Banking to a Family Business in Zero Proof Spirits. We dive head first into the world of Cut Above Zero Proof where inclusivity is key! ••••••• In this week’s episode, we are joined by: Andrew Solis of Cut Above Zero Proof. We caught him right after a production run of their Zero Proof Gin. In this episode, we talk about his start outside hospitality and the transition to business ownership with his wife Blanca and motivations that drive Cut Above. From tasting thousands of blends to create their brand and the intricacy of mixing/tasting zero proof spirits, Andrew walks us through it all. Special Guests: Andrew Soliz @andrewraulsolis of Cut Above Zero Proof @drinkcutabove Produced by Shift Change Creative and hosted by: Patrick Abalos @mixmanpatrick. Special thanks to the Cut Above Team and Andrew for recording with us!

Season 2 Episode 22: Jonathan Pogash and Pam Wiznitzer of Cocktail Guru

Your brand is important! Authenticity and trust are key. Don’t gatekeep to hinder your own image and growth in this ever changing industry. This extends into brands and brand marketing. ••••••• In this week’s episode, we are joined by: Pam Wiznitzer and Jonathan Pogash from the Cocktail Guru. We caught them during their pop up and seminar hosted at Julep with Alba Huerta. In this episode, we talk about the the Cocktail Guru, working with brands, authenticity, the issue of gatekeeping, and personal branding.  Special Guests: * Pam Wiznitzer @pamwiz * Jonathan Pogash @jonathanpogashofficial Produced by Shift Change Creative and hosted by: Patrick Abalos @mixmanpatrick. Special thanks to Alba and Julep for allowing us to record!

Season 2 Episode 21: Lauren Trickett from Remy Cointreau and Tiffany Kirk from Toasted Coconut/Road to Nowhere

It’s more than just drinks. It’s hospitality first! Being consistent is key, As Lauren said "consistency creates credibility". In this week’s episode in collaboration with Bartender Magazine and Arizona Cocktail Weekend, we are joined by: Lauren Trickett, National Brand Ambassador - Cointreau, Mount Gay Rum and Belle de Brillet and guest host: Tiffany Kirk - Bartender/Bar Mom at The Toasted Coconut and Road to Nowhere. It this episode, we dive intro what makes hospitality, mentorship, and balance. In addition to their backgrounds, Arizona Cocktail Weekend, rum, and brands.  Special Guests: * Lauren Trickett @mixittrickett * Tiffany Kirk @ambitiousimbiber Produced by Shift Change Creative and hosted by: Patrick Abalos @mixmanpatrick Brought to you by Bartender Magazine and Arizona Cocktail Weekend. Catch the Bartender Magazine Spring 2026 edition live now at bartender.com [http://bartender.com]!

Season 2 Episode 20: Kyle Marvé from Remy Martin Cognac

Fashion, Bartending, and Branding - Diving headfirst into the hustle of Kyle Marvé In this week’s episode in collaboration with Bartender Magazine and Arizona Cocktail Weekend, we are joined by Kyle Marvé, one of two National Ambassadors for Remy Martin Cognac. We talk about his start in the industry from Fashion to Bartending School. We also discuss the rapid movement of the industry, a brief intro into the dynamics of regional tastes, the history and process of Remy Martin and Cognac, Bartender Talent Academy, and Industry Events. (Did you know he was on a reality TV show?) Special Guests: * Kyle Marvé @remymarve @kylemarve Produced by Shift Change Creative and hosted by: Patrick Abalos @mixmanpatrick Brought to you by Bartender Magazine and Arizona Cocktail Weekend. Catch the Bartender Magazine Spring 2026 edition live now at bartender.com [http://bartender.com]!