EPI 238 A&b :: Christain Gill :: Chef/Spiceoligist

PT 1 What’s our New Year’s resolution? To watch more cooking shows! After all, cooking competition shows are more popular than ever thanks to streaming and fun celebrity chefs like our guest, Christian Gill. He's appeared on Food Network's "Beat Bobby Flay" and "Guy’s Grocery Games" and most recently on Netflix "Snack vs. Chef." So how does he do it? Well, a background in theater doesn't hurt. Neither do his creative skills in the kitchen, which he's been honing since he was a kid cooking with his mom and grandmother. No matter what the dish, Christian always brings something unique to the table. 

PT 2 Just like a good New Year’s party, we don’t want our time with celebrity chef Christian Gill to end early. In part two of our talk, we dig into his professional journey as a restaurateur in Cincinnati, his work at Spiceology, and how Canadians don’t appreciate thick-cut bacon. As a spiceologist, Christian is constantly creating the next great flavor combination so cooks everywhere can quickly add new flavors in their kitchens. And speaking of great new flavors, one of Christian’s unique spices is a key ingredient to Gina’s tasty New Year's elixir. Here’s to a spicy 2023!

EPI 237 a&B :: David Kyle Johnson :: Professor of Philosophy :: King's College (PA)

PT 1 Tired of the holidays making you anxious, stressed, overweight, and poor? Well, maybe if you knew the true story behind many Christmas myths then you'd feel less pressure this time of year. David Kyle Johnson, professor of philosophy at King’s College (Pa.), is just the guy you need to listen to. He's the author of "The Myths That Stole Christmas.“ In part one of our discussion we tackle the myth of Saint Nicholas and the pagan German origins of this winter ritual that include goats (not reindeer), public copulation, and human sacrifice. It’s enough to make your Elf on the Shelf blush!

PT 2 The Grinch didn’t steal Christmas. Rather, the popular belief in seven holiday myths did. In the second part of our talk with David Kyle Johnson, author of "The Myths That Stole Christmas," we get more into the wild origins of modern Christmas celebrations. From the misconception that Jesus is the reason for the season to the belief that these traditions we celebrate are old-fashioned, the real history of Christmas is full of interesting stories that might make you choke on your fruitcake. Not to worry, you can wash it all down with Gina’s delicious bourbon and chai chocolate tea. You can also check out his blog on medium, setting the record straight with Christmas.

EPI 236 a&B :: Aja Taylor :: Advocacy Director :: Bread for the City

PT 1 When we think of holiday giving, it usually involves finding that perfect gift for a loved one (bourbon, please!). But charitable giving is also about giving back, especially during uncertain times like these. From fundraising to food and clothing drives, or volunteering your time, there are many ways to help. And Aja Taylor is helping year round. She’s Advocacy Director for Bread for the City and has an inspirational message for how we each can assist those in need. This holiday season you can help bring change to your community and spread a little holiday cheer at the same time.

PT 2 There’s so much you can do to help your community that it wouldn’t fit into one episode! In part two of our chat with Aja Taylor, Advocacy Director for Bread for the City, we continue our discussion about all the ways you can give back this holiday season, including learning how to become a community organizer in your area. So don't just raise your glass during the holidays this year – raise your hand and be of service to your community. Cheers and Happy Holidays!

EPI 235 A&B :: David J. Silverman :: Professor of History :: George Washington University

PT 1 Do you really think a shared meal is an appropriate representation for Native American–Colonialist relations? Well, maybe if that meal ends in a deadly foodfight. In part one of our enlightening chat with author and Professor of History at George Washington University David J. Silverman, we discuss the real story behind Thanksgiving and the importance of not whitewashing the history of American race relations that gave rise to the very myth at the center of the holiday. It's a discussion that could help you navigate some potentially thorny political issues at this year's dinner table.

PT 2 Mashed potatoes or stuffing? Pecan or pumpkin pie? Critical thinking or patriotic indoctrination? Get ready to fill your head with knowledge before you fill your stomach with carbs in the second half of our discussion with David J. Silverman, Professor of History and author of This Land Is Their Land: The Wampanoag Indians, Plymouth Colony, and Troubled History of Thanksgiving. 400 years after the "First Thanksgiving" he sheds profound new light on the events that led up to it. It’s enough to drive you to drink – good thing we have a tasty mezcal cocktail perfect for the holiday.

EPI 234 a&B :: Paul Hletko :: Founder and Master Distiller :: FEW Spirits

PT 1 Paul Hletko, founder and master distiller at Few Spirits, loves to make things. Whether making blueprints as an engineer, deals as a lawyer, or music for his rock band, at his core Paul is a creative person and always wants to bring something new to the table. And he's definitely done that with his craft spirits. He's continuing a family legacy that began with his grandfather who lost his brewery to the Nazis in WWII. Today, Paul honors his ancestors – and our taste buds – with his delicious bourbon.

PT 2 When rock band Black Rebel Motorcycle Club was looking for a distillery to collaborate with, Paul Hletko of FEW Distillery jumped at the opportunity. The result is Motor Oil whiskey. It's one of the delicious creations from FEW, which produces award-winning spirits that are original, distinctive, and playful. And his whiskeys make for a tasty cocktail, of course. Gina's on the case with an easy boulevardier recipe that will definitely rev up your evening. This is part two of our talk, and chaps are optional.

EPI 233 A&B Margaret “Margie” Salazar-Porzio :: Smithsonian :: Curator of the Division of Cultural and Community Life

PT 1 Halloween, Day of the Dead, and most terrifying of all, election season are upon us! To help us better understand el Día de los Muertos, Margaret Salazar-Porzio is here. She's Curator of Latinx History and Culture in the Division of Home and Community Life at the Smithsonian and utilizes her expertise and unique perspective to make recommendations for acquisitions and interpret collections. And if you're like most people and need to acquire some pumpkin spice this season, you'll love Gina's tasty, easy, and versatile pumpkin spice syrup. It's scary delicious.

PT 2 Repeat after me: Day of the Dead is NOT Mexican Halloween. In part two of our talk with Margaret Salazar-Porzio, a Curator of Latinx History and Culture in the Division of Home and Community Life at the Smithsonian, we dive deeper into this unique and important celebration. A blend of Catholic tradition and Mexican mysticism, it commemorates death as another element of life and is a way to remember and honor loved ones. Some do this with an altar of pictures, candles, flowers, and even favorite foods and drinks of their passed loved ones. So, what drink will your descendants set out for you? It just might be the sweet pumpkin spice cocktail in this week's episode.

EPI 232 A&B :: Maggie Kimberl :: Content Editor of American Whiskey Magazine

PT 1 Kentucky is known for bluegrass, horses, basketball, and our favorite of all, bourbon! And as content editor at American Whiskey Magazine, Maggie Kimberl feels blessed to live in the epicenter of the brown water world. She covers the bourbon beat every day and has immersed herself in her home state's rich spirit history and culture. And while a lot has changed since prohibition, many things have not, including archaic local liquor laws. In part one of our talk, we discuss how the pandemic has started loosening some of these restrictions. Now that's a trend that definitely deserves a toast!

PT 2 The pandemic, climate change, social reckoning – with so many issues to be concerned about these days, it's no surprise that bourbon is more popular than ever! In part two with Maggie Kimberl, content editor at American Whiskey Magazine, we learn why you should drink whiskey out of a white wine glass, and how Maggie balanced raising her family with a career and a side gig writing about bourbon. And when it comes to balancing flavor, no one does it better than Gina with a scrumptious whiskey cocktail that will have you longing for your old Kentucky home, even if you're from Virginia.

EPI 231 A&B :: Doug Filipponi :: Owner & Viticulturist :: Ancient Peaks Winery

PT 1 Santa Margarita, California, is a small town steeped in local history, but despite its name, it is not renowned for our favorite salted-rimmed tequila cocktail. No, this area is wine country and home to Ancient Peaks Winery. As co-owner and viticulturist of the winery, Doug Filipponi oversees all vineyard operations on Margarita Vineyard. He's a lifelong entrepreneur who started out drilling wells and later branched out into winegrowing and ranching. So one might say he turned water into wine. But it's no miracle his wines are so good; Doug's success is based on skill, hard work, and a family tradition of making wine the old-fashioned way. And just like Doug’s wine, this episode deserves a large pour, so don’t miss part two.

PT 2 In part two of our talk with co-owner & viticulturist of Ancient Peaks Winery, Doug Filipponi, we get a little dirty. We’re talking about soil, of course. His vineyard has a rare array of five distinct soil types that bring natural dimension and complexity to the wines, including grounds riddled with petrified oyster shells leftover from the land’s ancient origins as an uplifted seabed. This produces wines with high-toned flavors, pretty aromatics, and fine tannins. And it turns out that it is also the main ingredient of a refreshing wine-based cocktail that Gina serves up. So, we’ll understand if you decide to chug rather than sip your vino this week!

EPI 230 A&B :: Elizabeth Velez :: Professorial Lecturer :: Georgetown University

PT 1 They say progress is impossible without change. And change is something Elizabeth Velez knows all too well. At the height of the Civil Rights Movement she moved from the Deep South to NYC. And then things got interesting. Today, she’s a professor at Georgetown University, writer, journalist, feminist, and occasional poet living in the DC area who has been fighting for women’s issues since the 1960s. And with so much work still to be done in this arena with the recent overturning of Roe, she’s not about to stop now.

PT 2 If you’ve seen Rosemary’s Baby, you know it is a very disturbing movie. But are you familiar with its analysis as a story of patriarchy’s disempowerment and control of women? In part two of our talk with Elizabeth Velez we discuss how she utilizes this movie’s message in her teachings at Georgetown University. Our cultural analysis of motherhood and social justice can get a little fiery at times, but it’s cooled off nicely with a refreshing cocktail from Gina.

EPI 229 a&B :: Eamoni Collier :: Founder :: Urban Garden Brewing

PT 1 When it comes to the booming craft beer industry, there is definitely something in the water. Yet, it's still an industry with less than one percent minority ownership. Thankfully, Eamoni Collier of DC's Urban Garden Brewing is challenging the status quo, advocating for diversity and inclusion within the industry. She's helping bridge the gap between Washington DC's urban communities and craft brewing, driving a change in tone – and flavor – that is transforming the city's beer culture.

PT 2 Hibiscus, rose petals, chamomile, and honey. These ingredients would no doubt make a fine herbal tea. But how would they taste in a beer? Turns out, pretty darn good. This is just one of the many tasty flavors from Eamoni Collier of Urban Garden Brewing, DC’s first Black woman-owned craft beer brand. Whether you prefer lager or IPA, the second part of our talk with Eamoni definitely won't leave a bitter taste in your mouth. And neither will this week's tasty cantaloupe purée-based cocktail.

EPI 228 a&B :: David Suk :: CEO/Founder :: Saint Luna Craft Moonshine

PT 1 When most people hear about moonshine, they usually think of banjos, shotguns, and family trees that look like a straight line. But David Suk, CEO and founder of Saint Luna Craft Moonshine, is helping to change that image. This gay-owned and -operated spirit is modernizing moonshine as well as the workplace with a commitment to building an inclusive business welcoming to people of all backgrounds. In the first part of this two-part talk, we learn about the nuanced flavor of a good moonshine and how a trip deep into the Georgia wilderness led to the birth of a premium brand.

PT 2 You typically don’t see moonshine in higher-end restaurants or craft cocktail bars, but David Suk is changing that. In part two of our interview with the CEO and founder of Saint Luna Craft Moonshine we learn more about this growing brand as it continues to expand throughout the country. This moonshine’s versatility makes it ideal for creating fantastic craft cocktails, including a tasty new creation from Gina that might have you looking at your cousin a little longer than is socially acceptable.

EPI 227 a&B :: Alex/A Bradley :: Outreach & Education Manager :: HIPS

PT 1 Everyone wants to change the world, but how much work are you putting in to make your local community a better place? Alex/a Bradley knows the importance of service and is working to make things better in her of home of Washington, DC. As the Outreach & Communication Education Manager at HIPS, Alex/a is helping advance the health rights and dignity of people and communities in DC impacted by sex work and drug use by providing non-judgmental harm reduction services, advocacy, and community engagement. She’s living proof that meaningful change starts at home.

PT 2 The biggest barrier to health care for transgender individuals is lack of access due to lack of providers who are sufficiently knowledgeable on the topic. This is one of the many challenges of transgender people who suffer disproportionately from depression, substance abuse, self-harm, and suicide. But Alex/a Bradley is working to make things better. As the Outreach & Communication Education Manager at HIPS, Alex/a is serving her community to improve the safety and acceptance for transgender women and men. Her work is so inspiring, Gina’s created a special cocktail in her honor. After all, bartenders provide an important service, too!

EPI 226 A&b :: Colin Asare-Appiah :: Trade Director of Multi-Cultural and LGBTQ+ Advocacy :: Bacardi

PT 1 This week we are getting spicy. As the Trade Director of Multi-Cultural and LGBTQ+ Advocacy for Barcardi and co-author of Black Mixcellence, Colin Asare-Appiah exemplifies the meaning “variety is indeed the spice of life.” In part one of this episode, Colin shares his journey to becoming a champion for diversity within the spirit industry and just how important it is to be the change we want to see in the world (and our glass). Lucky us.

PT 2 Ready for another shot of flavor? In part two of our talk with Colin Asare-Appiah, Trade Director of Multi-Cultural and LGBTQ+ Advocacy for Barcardi, we dive into his book Black Mixcellence. It’s a snapshot into cocktail culture and a tribute to the contributions of trailblazing Black and Brown mixologists to the spirits and mixology industries, not to mention a great source for incredible drink recipes, including the one featured on this episode. It’s sweet and spicy and works great frozen or even as ice pops. Beating the summer heat has never been tastier!

EPI 225 A&B :: Natalie Thompson :: VP of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Capital Pride

PT 1 Having a positive impact on someone else's life reminds you of the value you bring and gives life purpose, which makes you happy. Funny how that works. But don’t take our word for it, just listen to Natalie Thompson. She’s VP of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Capital Pride, as well as a volunteer at multiple other organizations that allow her to follow her passion of helping the marginalized LGBTQIA+ community. She’s living proof that the best way to find yourself is by serving others. But what’s the best way to find ripe strawberries? Well, we have the answer to that in part one of our special two-part interview.

PT 2 Sure, Pride is a good party. But it’s so much more than that. Pride is a celebration of self-worth and dignity, as well as a jubilant proclamation of one's identity. In part two of our talk with Natalie Thompson, VP of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Capital Pride, we discuss the importance of being part of a supportive community and the opportunities it can create to not only make society better, but also to make ourselves better. We touch on a lot of issues in this episode, so you’re bound to work up a thirst. Get your glasses ready for a fruity twist on the classic gin and tonic, the tasty and colorful, “Pride and Tonic.”

EPI 224 A&b :: Fenton Bailey :: Co-Founder :: World of Wonder

PT 1 Unfortunately, feeling like an outsider is something those in the LGBTQ+ community are used to. It’s this point of view that has inspired Fenton Bailey – co-founder of the Emmy and Oscar award-winning production company World of Wonder – to create some of the most influential pieces of content of the past thirty years. He’s brought us RuPaul's Drag Race, Catch and Kill: The Podcast Tapes with Ronan Farrow, Small Town News, the Million Dollar Listing franchise, Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, and much more. In part one of this two-part episode, we discuss how he started on public access cable TV, and how we each have our own personal closets we like to hide in. Just make sure you have something tasty to sip while you’re in there.

PT 2 For more than a decade, RuPaul's Drag Race has been the most visible platform for LGBTQ+ performers on TV. The show is a production of World of Wonder, a company co-founded by Fenton Bailey, and it’s a global phenomenon – spawning seven international spin-offs. Fenton has been at the forefront of bringing us into rich subcultures and worlds for about 30 years and has won 24 Emmys for RuPaul’s Drag Race and two Oscars for The Eyes of Tammy Faye. In part two of this interview, we cover how Elton John introduced him to working with RuPaul in the 90s, his new line of “House of Love” beverages, his upcoming book, and of course Gina has a deliciously easy champagne cocktail to share. It’s a drink made for a queen, of course.

EPI 223 A&b :: Consuella Lopez :: Board Member :: Capital Pride Alliance

PT 1 As the trans movement strengthens, we aim to increase understanding of the community among all society. To begin our celebration of Pride Month, we welcome Consuella Lopez, an activist and board member of the Capital Pride Alliance. Her inspiring story as a Latina trans woman highlights the challenges trans people face, including severe discrimination, stigma, and systemic inequality. It’s been a journey full of obstacles for Consuella. But as we learn in part one of our talk, her resolve is stronger than ever as she continues to fight for trans Americans to have an equal chance to succeed and thrive. And as with any good fight, a little liquid courage can go a long way.

PT 2 Transgender youth may have fewer people to turn to in a time of crisis and therefore become homeless and at-risk of exposure to exploitation on the streets. In part two of our discussion with Consuella Lopez, activist and board member of the Capital Pride Alliance, we hear about her challenges growing up as a trans woman in DC. She was able to escape this dangerous cycle and is working to foster an inclusive environment where youth feel safe exploring their emerging identities. And for a strong Latina trans woman like Consuella, Gina has created a strong cocktail – the Transpower Sangria. Cheers to Pride Month!

EPI 222 A&b :: Professor Ricardo Ortiz :: Georgetown U :: Author of “Latinx Literature Now” & “Cultural Erotics in Cuban America”

PT 1 From the earliest times of storytelling, the core themes of sexuality and gender have been utilized to communicate the challenges and beauties of being human. But it wasn’t until the past 60 years that there’s been a meaningful shift beyond conventional hetero, patriarchal, and cis interpretations. In part one of this special Pride Month interview, we chat with professor and author Dr. Ricardo Ortiz, one of a generation of scholars who opened up queer studies and spaces. He understands that there is a much broader array of possibilities for analyzing themes in literature. And now he also knows how to make an aromatic infused olive oil that’s the key ingredient to Gina’s cocktail recipe in part two.

PT 2 Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for understanding someone who at first might appear different than we are. In part two of our special Pride Month conversation with professor and author Dr. Ricardo Ortiz of Georgetown University, we discuss some emerging literature and even popular TV shows that are pushing the boundaries with their gender and sexuality themes. And Gina’s pushing the boundaries on craft cocktails with a tasty gin martini recipe that you’ll definitely want to try at home!

EPI 221 A&B :: Chelsey Allen :: Sex and Relationship Coach :: Cosmos Sutra

PT 1 Have you ever been licking grape jelly off your partner and suddenly realized, “Oh my God. I’m turning into my mother.” Hey, these things happen. And in part two of our discussion with certified sex and relationship coach Chelsey Allen, we continue our lively talk about turn-ons, kinks, and how all of our core wounds and desires stem from childhood and our relationships with our parents. Sounds weird, but it’s all essential to discovering how to be comfortable with our truest desires. So how can you have a healthier sex life? Well, you can start by loosening up with a delicious cocktail and listening to some of the great insights shared by Chelsey. We can definitely drink to that!

PT 2 You've probably walked innocently past Cosmopolitan magazine a thousand times while in line at the grocery store. And if you’ve taken a glance inside the cover, you’ve seen it’s littered with mildly kinky and often impractical advice ("Wear a wet t-shirt to bed!"), along with horrifying tips that border on self-mutilation. For those in search of truly helpful advice in this arena, you’re much better off contacting someone like our guest, Chelsey Allen. She’s a certified sex and relationship coach and creator of Cosmos Sutra, a practice that brings together spirituality and sexuality. And if sweetness is your weakness, you’re going to swoon over this week’s simple syrup recipe. And since one round is never enough (wink, wink), be sure to check out part two of our interview with Chelsey as well.

EPI 220 A&B :: Emily Key :: Dir of Ed :: NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAM LATINO

PT 1 Spoiler Alert: Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day! Emily Key, Director of Education at the Smithsonian Latino Center (and mythbuster), revisists the show to discuss the true origins of the holiday. Come along as we debunk some of the most common misconceptions, so you can fiesta properly. There’s even a lesson on how to properly use the shaker tin, which will come in handy when you’re making your tequila or mezcal cocktails to commemorate the Battle of Puebla. We have so much to celebrate that we needed to make this a two-parter. So be sure to come back for the second round!

PT 2 Want to celebrate Cinco de Mayo properly? While the rest of the country is overdosing on Corona and quesadillas, you might want to reach for cabernet and crepes; France, it turns out, has more to do with Mexican food than you might think. In part dos, or deux, of our talk with Emily Key, Director of Education at the Smithsonian Latino Center, we continue our exploration of Cinco de Mayo, including a hearty discussion about the influence of French cuisine on today’s Mexican foods. Think about it… crepes are a cousin of the enchilada, and bolillos and telera are cousins to the French baguette. And with all this talk about food, you’re going to need a mezcal cocktail to wash it all down with. Not to worry, Gina’s got you covered!

EPI 219 A&B :: Rabbi Drew & Father Finch

PT 1 A priest, a rabbi, and a podcaster walk into a bar… Oh, you think you might have heard this joke already? We promise you haven't as this week’s epi welcomes Rector of St. Peter Catholic Student Center at Baylor University Father Henry Finch and “The Jewish Drinking Show” podcast host and founder Rabbi Drew Kaplin. In our lively discussion we cover some the challenges of faith and the reevaluation of our spiritual lives that many have faced the past couple years. It’s a conversation so engrossing that we needed to make it a double, so be sure to catch part two next week.

PT 2 Our cup runneth over! This is part two of our interview with Father Henry Finch, Rector of St. Peter Catholic Student Center at Baylor University, and Rabbi Drew Kaplan, host of “The Jewish Drinking Show” podcast and founder of JewishDrinking.com. They’re here to help us celebrate (and better understand) the season. For many, it’s a time for religious observances; lucky for us, it’s also a time for celebrating with drinks. So rejoice, Gina has a tasty sangria drink recipe you're sure to enjoy. After all, we’re religious about our cocktails!

EPI 218 :: Victoria Virasingh :: Democratic Congressional Candidate :: Virginia’s 8th District

It’s primary election season! Victoria Virasingh, a progressive House challenger in Northern Virginia, is working to shape a future where we all get a chance at achieving the American Dream. As she embarks on her first bid for public office, this native Arlingtonian and daughter of immigrants has the “lived experience” that gives her a unique understanding of the challenges facing many navigating today’s economy, immigration and educational systems. Join us as we discuss issues facing families throughout Virginia’s 8th Congressional District and Victoria’s plans to expand access and opportunity for all. And no matter what your political leanings, we can all vote for another delicious cocktail.

EPI 217 :: Mary DeVito :: Founder :: Fatback Media

During Women's History Month we’ve been speaking with extraordinary women with remarkable stories. To close out the month, this epi features Mary Kong-DeVito. She’s a content strategist and owner of marketing firm Fatback Media, which specializes in the hospitality industry and women-owned businesses. This lively conversation covers a wide range of restaurant-related marketing topics, including the importance of content marketing for local restaurants and how the pandemic has changed the food and beverage industry. And if you’re looking for some tasty content that’s definitely “buzzworthy,” be sure to try this week’s delicious cocktail recipe.

Find out where Gina gets salty!

EPI 216 :: JaVon Townsend :: Founder :: Jubilee Counseling and Wellness

Sometimes life can be overwhelming, especially the past couple years. But thanks to people like JaVon Townsend, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of Jubilee Counseling and Wellness, we can reconnect and find joy again through mental health therapy and activities that promote holistic wellness. As we continue to honor Women’s History Month, this epi features an important discussion on reconnecting to emotion and moving through difficult feelings. We even learn simple activities that can keep one in the moment and relieve stress. And if that isn’t relaxing enough, this week’s cocktail will definitely do the trick.

EPI 215 :: Patrice Cameau :: Creator :: CAMPspace 

We continue to feature inspirational ladies during Women’s History Month. In this epi we welcome to the show Patrice Cameau, the force behind CAMPspace, a business dedicated to providing affordable and private workspaces to create digital, video and audio content. We discuss what drives her entrepreneurship along with the importance of accountability and listening to your customers in order to serve them better and make your business stronger. And we top it all off with an amazing spring cocktail recipe that’s as fresh and beautiful as the season.

EPI 214 :: Brielle Caruso :: CMO :: SelvaRey Rum

As we continue to honor Women’s History Month, this epi welcomes to the show Brielle Caruso, Chief Marketing Officer at SelvaRey Rum, a luxury rum co-owned by musician Bruno Mars. As an infant in South Korea, Brielle was adopted by Italian-American parents. Throughout her life she’s faced challenges because of her Korean background, but this has only inspired her to pursue her dreams with even more passion. Join us as we discuss her role in building a premium rum brand and her personal mission of supporting women to take risks. It’s a discussion that’s as delicious as this week’s special cocktail.

EPI 213 :: Mireya Loza :: Curator, National History Museum :: Asst. Professor, Georgetown University

March is Women’s History Month, so all month long we’re celebrating the contributions women have made to our nation, and are still making. One of these extraordinary women is our guest for this epi, Mireya Loza. ​​She’s an award-winning author, historian, curator at the National Museum of American History, and Associate Professor at Georgetown University. We’ll be discussing what she learned over seven years of traveling and talking with migrant farmworker communities for her book, Defiant Braceros, as well as her work on the new exhibition at the museum, Girlhood (It’s Complicated), which commemorates the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage by exploring the concept of girlhood in the U.S. and how girls changed history. Join three women as we shake things up, including our tasty cocktail.

Epi 212b :: Jim Crow :: ICON Series w/ John T Chapman & McArthur Myers

In part two of our interview with historian and Alexandria Living Legend McArthur Myers, guest host John Taylor Chapman and McArthur continue their conversation. Picking up at the dawn of the Jim Crow era, Southern Black people saw the promise of equality under the law embodied by the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the Constitution receding quickly as the “separate but equal” doctrine became the law of the land. The Alexandria area has many stories to tell from this period, and McArthur knows every one. Savor them all, as well as your delicious cocktail.

Epi 212a :: Reconstruction :: ICON Series w/ John T Chapman & McArthur Myers

The era of Reconstruction offered great promise and could have radically changed the history of this country. However, it quickly became clear that emancipation in the United States did not mean equality for Black people. In the third episode of our ICON Series, guest host John Taylor Chapman welcomes McArthur Myers, historian and Alexandria Living Legend. John and McArthur discuss this significant chapter in the history of civil rights in our country as it struggled to address questions of freedom, justice, equality, and citizenship. There’s so much to cover, we needed two parts for this episode. So grab your glass, sit back, and hear the story of ordinary people facing very difficult odds in trying to create a better society for all.

Epi 211 :: Secret Seven :: ICON Series w/ John T Chapman & Lillian Patterson

The Secret Seven were a group of African American activists who worked, often behind the scenes, to help integrate Alexandria, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s, countering Virginia's massive resistance against integrating schools. Fortunately, their activism pushed Alexandria forward when the city’s leadership was still averse to change — who obviously hadn’t met John T. Chapman. 

In the second episode of our four-part ICON Series, guest host John Taylor Chapman welcomes Lillian Patterson – educator, historian, fourth-generation Alexandrian, and wife of Edward Patterson, a member of the Secret Seven. John and Lillian discuss this invisible force of strong-willed parents who fought for better schools, housing, and representation in their local community. It’s proof that sometimes just a few determined people can do great things. Now that deserves a listen, and a toast!

Epi 210 :: 1939 Library Sit-In :: ICON Series w/ John T Chapman & Rose Dawson

On a warm August afternoon in 1939, Alexandria (Va.) Library staff and patrons watched as a young African American entered and asked to register for a library card. When he was refused, he bravely picked up a book, took a seat, and began to read. This bold act was the beginning of one of America's first sit-ins and one of the earliest precursors of the strategies used during the civil rights movement decades later. 

In the first epi of our four-part ICON Series, guest host John Taylor Chapman – Alexandria’s Night Mayor and local historian – welcomes Rose T. Dawson, Exe. Dir. of the Alexandria Library. Tune in for a lively and empowering conversation about this pioneering use of nonviolent direct action to demand equal rights for African Americans. Talking history while sipping cocktails — you’ve never had a history class like this!

Epi 209 :: Re-Mix Mix-Up :: Food For Thought

We may have saved the best for our 4th and last Re-Mix Mix-Up epi. On this epi, three of our most insightful and empowering guests we have had the privilege of hosting share with us some hard-to-ignore facts on the amount of hunger found within North America, open our eyes to some of the challenges our neighbors face to simply survive, and prove that hunger knows no borders. But what they also do is give us some simple steps each of us can take to help fight hunger by channeling the power of food.

Learn more about Carla Pellegrini & Food Stash Foundation

Learn more about Mike Curtain & DC Central Kitchens

Learn more about Debbie Shore & Share Our Strength

Epi 208 :: Re-Mix Mix-Up :: Nourish Mind, Body & Soul

They say, the third time’s a charm. And our third Remix Mix Up epi is all about the 3 key ingredients to living a life well lived—finding balance, sharing joy and eating well. So, who better to bring together than culinary disruptor, author and coach Kristen Coffield from epi 167 and corporate executive turned nutritional therapist Jay Villar from epi 62? They share some of their tips and tricks to staying hydrated, managing stress and eating with intention, all to help us be the best versions of ourselves. Now that deserve an applause. 

Want more healthy tips from Kristen?

Want more healthy tips from Jay?

Epi 207 :: Re-Mix Mix-Up :: It’s A Family Affair

Epi 2 of 2022 is 2x a family affair featuring Designated Drinkers Micheline Mendelsohn from Epi 136 and Shawna Mendelson from Epi 140. These 2 amazing guests are hardworking and devoted to what they do without a doubt, but family…family definitely plays a large role in their lives. The bonds they have with their families are so strong, they’ve not only influenced their career paths, but have continued to help them grow their empires and conquer the world.

Want all of Shawna?

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Epi 206 :: Re-Mix Mix-Up Badass Women

We are opening 2022 with a line-up of shows that is going to be a blast from our past—it’s a total mix-up of some of the best of our boozy banter with some of our most inspiring Designated Drinkers. So, find a cocktail recipe—or five—from our library of libations and get ready to for some fun-filled flashback action.

In our first epi of 2022 it’s all about inspiring badass women who are out to change the world for the better. From thought-provoking DJ Poet Taylor, to social justice entrepreneur Karen Sugar, to lawyer turned pirate Laura Sook Duncombe—this first epi is a great way to kick-off this limited series.

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