Barcode Mixer

In this episode, we sit down with Aistis, the mind behind Panamericano, the speakeasy-style cocktail bar known for showcasing spirits exclusively from across the Americas.Aistis shares his incredible journey from Lithuania to Miami — including the life-changing moment he won a green card lottery that opened the door to a new chapter in the U.S. What started as a leap of faith turned into a career built on discipline, curiosity, and a deep respect for hospitality.We dive into the philosophy behind Panamericano’s cocktail program — how limiting the back bar to spirits from North, Central, and South America sparks creativity rather than restriction. Aistis breaks down the balance between technical precision and storytelling, and how intention shapes every drink that leaves the bar.We also explore: The mindset required to grow in a competitive hospitality city like MiamiWhy perspective matters more than hypeHow identity influences creativity behind the barThis conversation is about resilience, opportunity, and building something meaningful far from where you started.A story of craft and cocktails done with purpose.

In this episode, we sit down with Phil and James, the founders of Aphlora Passion Flower Liqueur, a spirit distilled at Big Cypress Distillery that captures the wild, tropical soul of South Florida.Childhood friends turned business partners, these two South Florida natives share the journey from growing up together to creating something truly original. What started as an idea rooted in curiosity and creativity became a beautifully crafted passion flower liqueur — floral, expressive, and unmistakably Floridian.We talk about:How Aphlora was born and why passion flowerThe process of bringing a niche liqueur to life Working with Big Cypress Distillery to refine and distill the productThe challenges of launching a spirits brand in today’s marketRedefining the “Florida Man” narrative through craftsmanship and intentionPhil and James prove that Florida isn’t just headlines and chaos — it’s innovation, culture, and artistry. This conversation is about friendship, risk, identity, and building something meaningful from the ground up.South Florida roots. Real craftsmanship. A liqueur that tells a story.

In this episode, we sit down with Fernando Plata of Big Cypress Distillery to talk about his journey into the world of distillation, the passion behind craft spirits, and the wide range of products he’s helped create and develop.Fernando shares how he first got introduced to distilling, the challenges and rewards of working in the craft spirits industry, and what makes the Big Cypress approach unique. From concept to bottle, we dive into the artistry, science, and storytelling behind each product he’s involved with.Due to unexpected technical camera difficulties during recording, this episode takes on a unique visual twist. Instead of traditional footage, the conversation is presented through animation and comic-book-inspired visuals as an homage to classic Captain America-era cartoon storytelling. The result is a fun, nostalgic style that adds a creative layer to an already great conversation.If you’re interested in craft spirits, entrepreneurship, or hearing how passion projects evolve into full-fledged brands, this episode delivers insight, personality, and a little vintage comic-book flair. Hope you enjoy. Cheers!

In this episode, we link up with Kayla for one of the most unconventional interviews we’ve done yet. Recorded while shooting pool, the conversation carries a laid-back, spontaneous energy that mirrors Kayla’s adventurous spirit and lifestyle.Kayla shares her experience traveling across 16 countries in just 6 months, diving into the cultures, people, and unexpected lessons she encountered along the way. From meaningful conversations with strangers to moments of personal growth and perspective shifts, her journey became more than just travel — it became a catalyst for redefining how she wants to live her life.Fresh back in Miami for only 48 hours, Kayla reflects on reverse culture shock, the emotional highs and lows of constant movement, and how traveling helped her realize she wants to fully pursue life as a digital nomad. We talk about what inspired that decision, the realities behind the lifestyle, and the challenges she now faces as she prepares to take her next steps toward living and working abroad again.This episode is about curiosity, stepping outside comfort zones, and what happens when you give yourself permission to explore the world — and yourself — without limits. Hope you enjoy. Cheers!

In this episode, we sit down with Alex Velazquez from Kaori to talk about his journey behind the bar and the mindset that keeps him grounded in the industry. Alex breaks down his role at Kaori and gives us a peek into the philosophy and creativity behind parts of the cocktail menu.We dive into how he first got into bartending, the importance of authenticity in hospitality, and why staying true to yourself matters in a fast-paced scene. Outside of the bar, Alex shares how he decompresses and resets through his workout routine and the discipline it brings into other areas of his life.A conversation about craft, balance, and staying centered while chasing growth.

In this episode, we sit down with Harry Ortiz, bartender at Sra. Martinez, for a conversation that blends cocktails, cinema, and sound.Harry shares how movies played a huge role in shaping who he is—especially how James Bond influenced not just his taste, but his decision to step behind the bar. From suave on-screen moments to real-life hospitality, we break down how film helped mold his style and approach to bartending.We also touch on Harry’s lesser-known work behind the scenes as a sound guy on several films, talking about life on set, the importance of sound in storytelling, and how those experiences inform his creativity today.We wrap things up by nerding out over some of our favorite shows we’re currently watching and why good storytelling, whether on screen or in a glass, always matters. Hope you guys enjoy. Cheers

In this episode, we sit down with Anays Diaz from Spiribam for a full-on deep dive into the world of rhum agricole. What started as a conversation quickly turned into a spirited (pun intended) geek-out as we explored what makes rhum agricole so unique—from its raw material and production methods to its flavor profile and cultural significance.If you’ve ever wondered how rhum agricole differs from traditional rum, why terroir matters, or why bartenders and spirits nerds hold it in such high regard, this episode is for you. Educational, passionate, and unapologetically nerdy, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone curious about rum beyond the basics.In This Episode, We Cover: • What rhum agricole is and how it differs from molasses-based rum • The role of fresh sugarcane juice and terroir • Production methods and regional influences • Flavor profiles and how to approach tasting rhum agricole • Why rhum agricole has such a devoted following in the spirits worldWhether you’re a bartender, spirits enthusiast, or just rum-curious, this episode delivers knowledge, context, and plenty of enthusiasm.🎙️ Press play and nerd out with us

In this episode we sit down with the very talented Frankie Padilla. Frankie is the General Manager of Bistro 8 (Ohco), a modern Mexican restaurant with a French Bistro feel right in the heart of Little Havana. We talk about what it was like growing up in Miami, the changes we've seen good and not so good, and what appears to be the revival of one of Miami's most historic and beloved neighborhoods. We also have special guest Co-Host Eli Diaz from the Codígo De Barra Podcast, it's always fun when she's around. Hope you guys enjoy and see you next week. Cheers!

In this episode we kick off season 2 with Rebecca Quiñonez, the master mind behind Q Consulting Firm. Rebecca shares stories of how she went from humble beginnings to not only owning her own business but thriving in it. We explore both the beauty and the struggle, and the beauty within the struggle, of growing up as a first-generation American. She holds a wealth of information and is eager to share it with anyone that asks. Definitely no gate keeping here. Hope you enjoy. Cheers! 🥂

✨ NOW POURING: Build Your Own LaneOur final episode of the 2025 run — before we return in 2026.We close the chapter with Courtney Lane, an industry legend whose story is built, not borrowed. From small-town bar beginnings in Gainesville, Courtney worked her way through South Florida staples like Craft Social Club, Baby Jane, 1306, Wynwood Diner, and Employees Only — each stop shaping the next step.We talk about:• Earning your path through consistency and curiosity 🛣️• The transition from behind the bar into spirits distribution & supply 📦• How she paved her own way to becoming Director of Brand Strategy at Atian Gin 🍸A fitting close to the season — a reminder that there’s no single blueprint. You build it, step by step, lane by lane.We’ll see you in the next chapter.

✨ NOW POURING: Stay GoldRecorded right outside our friend Robbie’s mobile bar trailer — with Robbie Ritter and Patricio Garcia currently hosting a cocktail van residency at Hoy Como Ayer.In this episode, we dive into the ecosystem of our industry:• How keeping the dollar within the community sustains all of us 💸🤝• Supporting each other’s side projects and passions as a shared network• Building drink programs that respect their space — the trailer, the food partner, the guests themselves 🍸🍽️Ray sits down with the guys to talk flavor profiles, creativity inside tight quarters, and how a bar program can be either neglected… or overdeveloped to the point it forgets the person on the other side of the stick.A conversation about staying grounded, staying intentional — and staying golden.

🌊 NOW POURING: Let’s Take a DipA conversation with Mitchel Bauer of Drinkable — dropping just ahead of the final Night Swim of the season on December 15 at the Moxy South Beach.Mitchel wears many hats in our world: part of the team at Sexy Fish Brickell, and a voice for Axia Spirit, the leading Mastiha brand in the U.S., championing one of the world’s oldest spirits 🇬🇷🥃.Ray sits in with him to talk about:• The importance of community events for those of us who live and breathe this industry 🤝• Why passion projects become extensions of who we are — and why we say yes to them outside of work 🔥• How connection, creativity, and showing up for each other keeps our scene alive 🌴A perfect warm-up before the last Night Swim of the year.

🧁 NOW POURING: Beauty of Second ActsA Thanksgiving-timed conversation with Aurora Fernández, Pastry Chef of Sra. Martinez in Coral Gables.We slow things down for this one and dive into a story shaped by courage, purpose, and reinvention:• How her passion first led her into hospitality management & governmental work supporting migrant communities 🤝• The moment of trust that changed everything — choosing to go to France to study pastry 🇫🇷• The journey of returning home to begin her next chapter as a pastry chef, fully aligned with who she is and what she loves 💛A reminder that life gives us many chapters — and the second act might be the most beautiful one yet.

☎️ NOW POURING: The Password Is…A sit-down with Kelsey Drevyn, General Manager of Red Phone Booth Brickell — the private member club with a little mystery at the door.We talk about:• Her shift from criminology into the world of hospitality 🔍➡️🍸• How her path led to leading a members-only space built on trust, energy & intention 🔑• The things we overhear at the bar, and the ways we build community around us every night 💬❤️An episode full of spirit, presence, and personality — just like Kelsey.

✨ NOW POURING: We Owe It to OurselvesA sit-down with Shauna O’Neil — a seasoned industry veteran now stepping into her next chapter as founder of Cultor, a ready-made tequila-based cocktail rooted in intention and presence.In this episode, we go deep into:• The responsibility behind creating a product that reflects your life experience and your work 📈• Sustainable living, sober curiosity & the maintenance practices that keep us aligned 🌿• How we show up for ourselves — so we can show up for our guests, our teams, and our craft 🙏A conversation that becomes spiritual, grounding, and fully representative of Shauna, of Barcode Mixer, and of Cultor’s ethos: presence is everything — and we owe it to ourselves.Explore Cultor at drinkcultor.com

🍺 NOW POURING: A New BeginningPart 2 of our conversation with Adam Gersten — the next chapter of the Gramps story.This week, we move from legacy into evolution:• How Gramps expanded into Gramps Getaway 🏝️• The journey from New Schnitzel to what is now Double Luck Chinese 🥠• The vision for what comes after the shutdown of the OG Gramps — and where the spirit of it will live next 🔮If last week was about how it all began, this one is about where it’s going.

🍺 NOW POURING: Beginning of The EndPart 1 of a two-part story with Adam Gersten, the mind behind Gramps — a Wynwood original. Part 2 will be next week's episode!In this first chapter, we go back to the origins:• How Gramps came to be in a neighborhood that was ripe for a cultural institution• The role it played as Wynwood grew, shifted, and built itself around its doors 🌆• What made this place more than a bar — a cultural anchor, a refuge, and a catalyst for community 🎶A look at the place that started it all — before we get into the legacy and what comes next.

Ray y Eli se van a Te Be Determined para sentarse con el Chef Johnny Delgado y conocer la historia detrás de este restaurante que redefine lo que significa un neighborhood restaurant en Miami 🌴✨Conversamos sobre:• Cómo nació el proyecto y la conexión inesperada con uno de nuestros antiguos invitados 🔗• El poder de un equipo apasionado que hace las cosas por amor, no por obligación ❤️• Y por qué este lugar marca la diferencia en cómo vivimos y compartimos la hospitalidad 🥂UN CUENTRO ENTRE FAMILIA — porque al final, todos cocinamos por la misma razón: porque lo llevamos dentro.

🍻 NOW POURING: All Over the PlaceWe sit down with Phil Banach, holding it down with Ariete Hospitality — currently posted up at Taurus while The Gibson Room preps its comeback 🔄.A native New Yorker 🇺🇸 now five years deep in Miami 🌴, Phil joins Ray and Jorge for a crash-out conversation that hits every corner of the map:• The overlap of Miami + NYC and why that mix makes sense 🗽➡️🌴• How neighborhoods grow, change, and what should come with it 🏙️• The evolution of our industry — third spaces, trends, and what each generation brings to the table 🍽️The conversation drifts, loops, and lands everywhere — in the best Barcode Mixer fashion.

🔬 NOW POURING: Gun for HireWe pull up to Robby Ritter’s house which in itself is definitely a bar.We sit with the mad scientist behind Bar Not Found and get to know his prep studio and his mobile trailer bar, Robby lets us into his world where music, craft, and curiosity collide 🎶🍸.We talk:• How his background as a musician shaped his creative process 🎸• The birth of Bar Not Found — a roaming cocktail lab on wheels 🚐• His collaborations bringing new spirits like Truman Vodka into the Florida market 🥂A conversation about instinct, invention, and letting the project tell you how it needs to come to life.Find him at @error404_barnotfound.

🍴 NOW POURING: Stay Hungry, Stay CreativeA sit-down with Barna Jeremias — Bar Manager of LPM Miami and part of the original team that brought the brand to the city 🇫🇷➡️🌴.Barna’s story is a testament to commitment and culture. We dive into:• How pride in who we are + where we come from fuels our work 💪• The importance of finding a creative outlet beyond the bar 🎶• His journey into music and launching Rapture’s Deli 🎤🥪An episode about staying rooted, staying inspired, and always staying hungry.

✨ NOW POURING: Disconnect to RechargeA testament to what Barcode Mixer is all about.This week with Hansel De Muñoz, we step away from the drinks themselves — and focus on the person behind the bar.We talk:• Why bartending is just one way of expressing who we are 🎭• How artists & givers recharge when the work becomes too much 🌱• The role of family, love, nature, and laughter in finding balance ❤️This episode lands right as Jorge & Ray return from their own sabbatical — the perfect reminder that recharging is part of the craft, and part of the journey.Much more is on the horizon in the next chapter of Barcode Mixer.

🌶️ NOW POURING: Zero Compromise, All FlavorA sit-down with Tommy Stitt — the force behind Middle Finger Hot Sauce.We trace Tommy’s path through past lives that seemed to destine him for this role as Florida's hot sauce boss. Along the way, he shares:• His philosophy of recipe creation — rooted in personal story & culinary craft 🍳• The influence of Mexican culture growing up in San Diego 🌮• How every part of his life now lives inside the many sauces he makes 🌶️🔥On this episode, we taste through his lineup, hear about his upcoming cookbook, and get a first-hand look at the future of Middle Finger Hot Sauce.

☕ NOW POURING: Chapeando con CódigoA true crossover with our sister show Código de Barra 🎙️🇪🇸We sit with Eli & Dayron, the voices behind Código de Barra, for a 90/10 split of Spanish + English — over cigars, rum, and coffee, in the backyard of Café La Trova. Or as we call it: La Catedral ⛪🍹We talk:• Hospitality as something that starts at home 🏠• Heritage, preservation & the continuation of legacy 🌱• Keeping Miami’s bar culture alive through language & tradition 🌴Four voices, two shows, one message — hospitality that transcends borders and languages.

🥃 NOW POURING: The Power of GratitudeA full-circle story with Miami industry legend Danny Jimenez 🌴✨From Miami chancletero to putting on the suit — Danny walks us through his 20+ years in the game, now representing a world-renowned spirit 🏆We talk:• How a career that fell into his lap became a lifelong path 🌊• Why managing expectations + gratitude are his keys to success 🙏• The beauty of giving yourself fully to the work — and watching it come back full circle 🔄A heartfelt episode on life, legacy, and the spirit of Miami hospitality.

🍸 NOW POURING: Never Masters, Forever StudentsA mid-prep sit-down with Joe Canton — Head Bartender of Bar Kaiju 🥂With 16+ years behind the stick, Joe shares:• How his dive bar days shaped the foundation for one of the best bars in the country 🏆• What Miami’s rapid development has felt like, both professionally + personally 🌆• Why Kaiju’s work is showing up on bar menus nationwide ✨A deep dive on the art, culture, and never-ending growth that it takes to become one of the best.

🍸 NOW POURING: Aperitivo BreakPull up a chair with Valentino Longo 🇮🇹 — Owner & Operator of ViceVersa Miami.With 20 years in the game, Valentino opens up on:• Why becoming the best is a continuous act 🔁• Blending Italian culture while creating something new 🍷• Bringing Aperitivo culture to life in Miami, true to its roots 🇮🇹☀️An episode for slowing down, sharing a sip, and savoring the in-between moments.

🎙 Purpose over PassionThis week we sit with Tom Lasher-Walker — a legend behind the stick 🇬🇧🍸. From iconic bars across the UK & NYC to Miami stints at Jaguar Sun and now Owner-Operator of The Scapegoat in Miami Beach 🏝.We get into:• Miami’s need for bar culture & true third spaces 🪑• How he sets his team up for success 💪• The mental health & empathy lessons no one teaches you, but you have to learn to survive 🧠❤️Passion is a spark, but purpose is the engine.

🎙️ NEW EPISODE — “Tears of a Clown”Now live on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 🎭🍸This week, we go full circle with Alex Alfonso — a mentor, a legend, and what we lovingly call a “grandfather bartender.”Alex was one of the first people Ray ever worked with in this business nearly 20 years ago, and now he’s back on the mic — not just as a friend, but as a distributor and OG storyteller with decades in the game.We let Grandpa talk… and he talked.🥃 Equal parts laughs and gut-punches🧠 Stories from the trenches and the truths behind the scenes🎭 Jokes on the surface, but always something deeper underneathThis one’s about legacy, growth, and staying human — even after all these years.

🎙️ NEW EPISODE — “Look on the Brightside”Now pouring on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 🍻🌞🏈This week, we pull up a barstool with Mike Radigan, owner-operator of The Brightside — a beloved neighborhood sports bar that's quietly bridging the gap between Old and New Miami.We talk:🍀 The wild story of how the space fell into his lap🥃 What it’s like to win the liquor license lottery in Florida🧽 Learn from an owner that built his own bar with his village around him and how he's always down to jump on barback. This is a story about luck — but not the kind that just happens.The kind that shows up when you’re ready to receive it.

🎙️ NEW EPISODE — “Accidental Hospitality”Now playing on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 💨📝🍽️This week, we introduce someone who’s become a quiet force behind the scenes — our “Angel Producer” and dear friend Nick Jimenez.As the Cigar Program Director at El Vecino and head of PR for the Ariete Hospitality Group, Nick’s journey into hospitality wasn’t part of the plan — it was an accident rooted in passion.We talk:📰 His background in journalism and storytelling💨 His deep love for cigars and ritual🙌 And how those instincts — to understand, to savor, to serve — brought him right where he’s meant to beThis is a story about falling into your purpose, and about the many ways hospitality finds you… when you’re paying attention.

🎙️ NEW EPISODE — “Giving it Back”Now streaming on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 💼🌱This one’s special. We sit with our dear friend and former mentor Zuni Melendez — someone who shaped Jorge’s early steps in the industry and whose journey from hostess to Director of Operations is a masterclass in leading with heart.Zuni shares how she built her career not by obligation — but by intention.Not because she had to — but because she wanted to.We talk:🌴 The evolution of Kush Hospitality and its unique place in Miami’s food scene🔁 Why building something really means giving it back to your team and your city🚀 A sneak peek at their next chapter — launching a realty group to support hospitality ventures from the ground upIt’s a story about rising with purpose, building with vision, and staying rooted in what matters most.

🎙️ NEW EPISODE — “Rebel With a Cause”Now live on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 🍸🌍🇺🇦This week on Barcode Mixer, we sit down with our friend Dima, bar manager at Medium Cool Lounge — a true rebel in the best sense of the word.Originally from Ukraine, Dima came to America with nothing but his profession on his back. In this powerful conversation, he shares:🌍 What it means to start over from scratch🇺🇦 Living in the U.S. while war breaks out back home — and rising to the moment🫱 Using the bar as a platform for fundraising, guest shifts, and global solidarity🏠 The emotional journey of reuniting his family and building a life hereWe also unpack the stereotypes he’s had to break along the way — and the quiet power of staying true to yourself in this industry.

🎙️ NEW EPISODE — “Spirit of the Unicorn”Now streaming on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 🦄🍸This one’s for the real ones.We sit down with Juliette Saputo, a true unicorn in the hospitality world — someone who’s only ever known this life, and made it her own with grace and grit.From her legendary 9-year run at Gramps to now leading the charge as Bar Manager at the Freehand Miami Beach (home to Ray’s and the iconic Broken Shaker), Juliette shares her story with honesty, humor, and heart.We dive into:🌴 The pride of being a local showing tourists the real Miami🏳️‍🌈 What it takes to create lasting spaces for community and culture🦄 And the rare spirit it takes to thrive in this industry without losing your magicA story of legacy, leadership, and light.

Now serving on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 🍸🗣️We’re joined by the electric Susan Strom — a Miami Beach golden era bartender, turned spirits distributor, now stepping into her voice as a motivational speaker and soon-to-be TED Talker.In this rapid-fire, idea-packed session, we talk:🌴 The legacy of Miami’s ‘90s bar scene🥃 How cocktails become metaphors for life💡 And what it means to craft your message the way you craft a drink — with care, intention, and soulSusan’s got stories, perspective, and purpose — and she’s just getting started.🌐 Follow her journey at stromcrafted.com🎧 Listen now / Link in bio

This week on Barcode Mixer, we sit down with Fabio Crista — a bartender whose path has been anything but linear.From flying planes ✈️ to diving into crypto 💻, Fabio eventually found his true calling behind the bar — and fully committed when he made the move from Spain to the U.S..We explore:🌍 The contrasts between European and American bar culture💭 The personal beliefs and shared roots that shape our worldview🔥 And the story behind Cambio Tequila, the brand he now passionately representsThis one’s about pivots, purpose, and the beauty of fully showing up for your next chapter.

🎙️ NEW EPISODE — “The Mad Hatter”Now streaming on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 🌀🕯️Our longest episode yet.Our favorite conversation so far.We sit with The Mad Hatter — a scientist in her method, an artist in her spirit. What begins as a conversation about craft becomes something more...✨ A meditation on purpose🧠 A deep dive into consciousness and creativity🌍 And how, in these strange times, we become conduits for lightThis one isn’t just about the work — it’s about why we do it, and who we become in the process.Come curious. Leave changed.

Now pouring on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 🥃🔥Back in the mix: Frank & Kevin of FGM, our dear friends and industry insiders on the distribution and brand marketing side of spirits.In this comeback conversation, we dive into:📦 The real stories behind bringing bottles to bars📊 Current trends, shifts, and challenges in the spirits world💡 What it takes to represent brands like Dos Hombres Mezcal and Milam & Greene Whiskies with vision and strategyIt’s a behind-the-scenes look at the engine that moves the industry — from relationships to representation, and what’s next for the world of spirits.

This week on Barcode Mixer, we sit down with Elizabeth Hernandez, the only female bartender at the world-renowned Café La Trova — a cornerstone of Little Havana and a fixture on the World’s 50 Best Bars list.Elizabeth shares her journey of:🎨 Balancing art and bartending as creative expression🌺 Honoring her heritage, culture, and identity🍹 Upholding the timeless legacy of the cantinero traditionShe champions what it means to show up fully yourself, and why the soul of a city like Miami lives through bars like this one — in rhythm, ritual, and real connection.

Now live on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 🎧🌙In this episode, we sit down with Luisangel Ramirez, a native Miamian and rising bartender apprenticing under the masters at the iconic Swizzle Bar in Miami Beach.Luis brings a deep sense of rhythm to the craft — shaped by his roots in music, family, and the city that raised him. Every pour, every stir, carries the weight of intention.We talk:🎶 The role of sound and soul behind the bar👨‍👩‍👦 The influence of home and heritage🍸 What it means to dedicate yourself to the details — even in the late-night quiet.This is a story of passion building slowly, then all at once — a crescendo in the night.🎧 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform / Link in bio#BarcodeMixer #CrescendoInTheNight #SwizzleBar #MiamiBartender #CraftCocktails #HospitalityStories #RisingTalent

🎙️ NEW TWO-PART EPISODE — “The Pastor Pt. 1 & 2”Out now on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 🕊️🥃This one runs deep. We sit down with Daniel Ortiz, longtime friend of Ray from the NYC days — once a pastor, now walking his path through the world of restaurants, healing, and self-discovery.Over two sessions, this conversation unfolds across time and emotion:💔 From divorce, addiction, and burnout🙏 To faith, family, and finding himself againIn Part 1, you’ll hear Danny before the unexpected passing of his mother.In Part 2, we return after — to a man still moving forward, deeper into his relationship with spirit, memory, and himself.It’s raw. It’s real. It’s a testament to growth in motion.🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast app / Link in bio#BarcodeMixer #ThePastor #GriefAndGrowth #RestaurantLife #SpiritualJourney

🎙️ NEW EPISODE — “Get Lost, Get Found”Now streaming on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 🌍🍸This one’s close to the heart. We sat down with our dear friend and former coworker Kayla Walden, a bartender, storyteller, and true embodiment of going with the flow.From packing up her car in Iowa to starting fresh in Miami — and now getting ready to backpack through Europe for three months — Kayla shares how bartending is more than a job. It’s a mirror of how she lives: intuitively, playfully, and always open to the unknown.She also teases her upcoming book project Bar Spills — where cocktails are paired with what’s being spilled, if you catch our drift... 👀📖🍹Hit play for some laughs, some truths, and a reminder to chase the adventure.🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast app / Link in bio#BarcodeMixer #BartenderLife #BarSpills #GetLostToGetFound #HospitalityStories

We took Barcode Mixer on the road for this one — straight into the heart of Shojo’s Dojo, where we sat down with the incredible duo behind it all: Haidar & Mari.This episode is a journey through:💘 Their love story🧑‍🍳 Their backstories in food & beverage🍶 How they fell in love with sake🏮 And what it means to build a hospitality space rooted in intention, curiosity, and care.We tasted some amazing sakes, shared laughs, and got a real look into what makes Shojo’s Dojo such a special place.Pull up a seat. Hit play.

One thing that matters to us a lot is health. Hospitality being at the core of what we do, it is important that we keep health at the center of it. Our goal is to nurture people, and the best way to do that is to always make sure that you are nurturing yourself.Exercise being at the top of it, we interview our cycling coach Kaylei Blackmoon-Ibarra from Rhythm and Release. We talk about her days as a bartender and how that transition as taken her into running her own studio with it's own philosophy and culture. We may have finished this episode by teasing a couple things we have in store with R+R. Stay tuned, we have plenty more in the works with our friends here at Barcode Mixer.

For this episode, we do our first tasting episode which became a whole movie upon itself getting to know the wizard behind it all, Janet Diaz-Bonilla. We will be tasting her Cuban made rum which is produced in Panama but along the way you will hear how that came to be. This is a story of resiliency that shows the strength and passion that one must have to become a fighter in the first place. It's a difficult time to talk about immigration and this is a legacy story that will prove the timelessness of the importance of migration in America and how it continues the rich cultures we all hold close to our heart. Janet is a powerhouse that made a rum that can compete with any, and that is exactly why she decided to put her story right on the label of the bottle: La Marielita. We are very proud to have her behind our bar as it hits close to home for Ray and I. At the core of everything we do, we do it all for the sake of preservation and legacy.Tap in for a little rum on a big cube. Cheers!

We have been making these episodes ahead of our release schedule so we can build the show out the same way we build our bars and let me tell you it has all been divine timing. What better time historically than to bring in our money guy for a talk about what we should be doing with our money and how it relates to all of our decisions and life choices. Couldn't be happier to introduce our friend and Ray's real estate guy Chris Lazaro onto the show. It's very important to our code how the money works, so financial literacy is at the top of our priorities in setting the table. There are some great tidbits here for everyone, no matter where you find yourself today. Cheers!

It would only be appropriate for Ray and Jorge to sit in and do a full-on Spanish interview with our fellow asere Victor Benitez. Victor is a traditionally trained Cuban cantinero and all-around Miami bartender. You can find him at El Vecino in Downtown Miami where you can also find his line of cigars. Tap into the Spanish, and join us on the occult journey that Victor has gone through to bring us something as special as the hospitality that he provides. The closest thing you can get to Cuba, right here in our backyard. Also a special shout-out to our friends at Ariete Hospitality for letting us use their space to film and thank you for understanding that we just learned what the smoke extractor does to our microphones. Slight technical difficulties with this one but we hope you love the message. It's almost like a pirate radio transmission with The Land with No Name. The metaphor is too perfect not to admire.

Name a better time in history to have a conversation with a Serb...

So we sat on the idea for this show for maybe a good year? Before it came to light at least, but a special shout out is given to TV's Nicole Muniz. While we were getting ready in our own way to get started, it did take a minute to become official. Our friend Nicole asks Ray one night at the bar, "why haven't you gotten started already?" The rest was history.

We get down to business with bar regulars turned good friends, fellow industry mavens Frank and Kevin from FGM Wine and Spirits. They brief us how their side of the business takes shape and how it influences our experiences behind the bar. We also talk about how health consciousness and consumption trends have changed the business at large. We talk past and future and there is a lot of similarities. We see ourselves bringing the boys on more often to keep the conversation going.