Season 7, Episode 20: Diane Strong, Executive Director - Bourbon on the Banks

On this episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark and Matt are joined by Diane Strong, Executive Director of Bourbon on the Banks, for a great conversation about the continued growth of the festival and what guests can expect when it returns to Frankfort on Saturday, October 3. Diane talks about how Bourbon on the Banks has evolved since its beginning in 2019, why its relaxed atmosphere along the Kentucky River has become such an important part of its identity, and how the event continues to attract returning guests from across Kentucky and beyond. She also walks Mark and Matt through the full weekend of activities surrounding the festival, including special tastings, the Bourbon Belle, the VIP Reception and Bourbon Auction, Bourbon Street on Broadway, and the Saturday festival itself. The conversation also explores the charitable mission behind Bourbon on the Banks and the significant amount of money the organization gives back each year to local nonprofits, civic organizations, and scholarship programs. Diane shares why that mission remains at the heart of the festival and how it continues to shape plans for the future. Along the way, Mark, Matt, and Diane taste and review three of the 2026 Bourbon on the Banks Single Barrel selections that will be available at the festival: Angel's Envy Port Finished Single Barrel Bourbon, Dark Arts Oloroso Finished Single Barrel Bourbon, and Dark Arts Mizunara Finished Single Barrel Bourbon. They also talk about The Bourbon Life's role as the festival's Live Podcast Partner and plans to have The Bourbon Life Mobile Podcast Studio onsite throughout the day. Whether you're already planning to attend Bourbon on the Banks or simply want to hear how one of Kentucky's most enjoyable bourbon festivals continues to grow while staying true to its community-focused mission, be sure to pour yourself a great glass, sit back, and join us for another great episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast. This episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is presented by Pappy & Co., District 7 Social, and The Kitchen Table at the James B. Beam Distilling Co.