What do you get when you combine a decorated U.S. Air Force veteran, humanitarian deminer, and wine importer? Meet Sam Lerman, CEO of Spirit Worldwide, whose life reads like a real-world spy thriller. In this episode of The Cocktail Guru Show, hosts Jonathan and Jeffrey Pogash sit down with Sam tohear how a mission in Ukraine led to the discovery of world-class wines — and how he’s now introducing them to the U.S.
➡️ Learn about rare Ukrainian varietals like Saperavi,the humanitarian mission behind the brand, and why Sam’s story is anything but ordinary.
🎧 Listen now and toast to a story of courage, compassion, and craft.

From Battlefield to Bottle: The Heroic Story of Sam Lerman (S4 E7)

Direct from Denver Part II: WSWA Access LIVE 2025 (S4 E6)

The Cocktail Guru Show: Live from Access Live Denver 2025

In this episode of the Cocktail Guru Show, Jeffrey and Jonathan Pogash, had the pleasure of interviewing Charlie Baum, the son of the legendary restaurateur Joe Baum. This episode was particularly special for Jeffrey, as he has had a personal connection with Joe Baum's work since he was a child.

The Episode begins by discussing Charlie's upbringing in a food-centric family, with his father Joe Baum being a significant influence in the restaurant industry. Charlie shared nostalgic memories of his early experiences in the hospitality world, including visits to his grandparents' hotel in Saratoga Springs and the iconic Newarker restaurant at Newark Airport.

The conversation then shifted to Joe Baum's groundbreaking contributions to the restaurant industry. We delved into his innovative projects such as the Newarker, the Forum of the Twelve Caesars, and the Four Seasons. Charlie highlighted how Joe's insistence on using American products and fresh ingredients was revolutionary for its time.

Also explored was Joe Baum's other notable ventures, including La Fonda del Sol, the original Brasserie, and the various dining establishments within the Pan Am Building. Charlie shared fascinating anecdotes about the extensive research and creativity that went into these projects, making them unique dining experiences.

All this and much more on this episode of The Cocktail Guru Show!

The Culinary Lifer with Charles Baum (S4 E4)

In this episode of The Cocktail Guru Show, Jeffrey Pogash and Jonathan Pogash, had the pleasure of diving deep into the world of wine with a very special guest, Manuel Lozada, CEO of Viña Almaviva. They began by reminiscing about Jeffrey's early career in the wine industry, including his transformative experience in Paris where he met Jonathan's mother and developed a lifelong passion for wine.

Manuel Lozada shared his fascinating journey in the wine industry, starting from his early exposure to wine at the age of five, thanks to his grandfather. He recounted his diverse experiences across the globe, from Portugal to Argentina, and eventually to Chile, where he now oversees the production of some of the world's finest wines at Almaviva.

The three discussed the unique qualities of Almaviva wines, the blend of French savoir-faire with Chilean terroir, and the meticulous process involved in creating these exceptional wines. Manuel also highlighted the importance of precision and humility in wine making, emphasizing that each vintage has its own character shaped by subtle climatic variations.

The conversation was deeply personal and filled with mutual respect and admiration. Manuel's passion for wine making was evident as he described the creative process and the joy of sharing wine with others. We also touched on the differences between the wine and spirits industries, noting the unique life and evolution of wine in the bottle.

Overall, this episode was a heartfelt exploration of the art and passion behind wine making, enriched by the long-standing friendship between my father and Manuel. We hope our listeners enjoyed this intimate look into the world of wine and the stories behind some of its most dedicated artisans.

The Bodega Master with Manuel Louzada (TCGS S4 E3)

On this episode of THE COCKTAIL GURU SHOW, hosts Jonathan & Jeffrey Pogash talk hospitality and acclaimed bartender, author, host, and educator Alba Huerta's singular commitment to excellence in it. Watch, listen, and learn how the Mexican-born and Texas-raised entrepreneur has racked up a raft of honors for both herself and Julep, the James Beard Award-winning bar that's played a leading role in transforming Houston's cocktail culture from dive dominated to craft focused.

 

THE COCKTAIL GURU PODCAST is produced by 1st Reel Entertainment and distributed by EatsDrinksTV, a service of the Center for Culinary Culture—Home of The Cocktail Collection, and is available wherever fine podcasts can be heard. The Center for Culinary Culture—Telling the Story of Food & Drink…One Taste at a Time.

The Julep Tender with Alba Huerta (TCGS S4 E2)

Hosts Jonathan and Jeffrey Pogash talk food, drink, hospitality and  entertainment with a mission to preserve the history of cocktails,  restaurants, mixology, and wine through interviews with the most  influential members of those industries.

The Cocktail Guru Season 4 Promo

VIDEO VERSION

On this episode of THE COCKTAIL GURU SHOW, the premiere installment of Season 4, hosts Jonathan & Jeffrey Pogash deep-dive the whiskey world with serial entrepreneur Raj Alva and veteran whiskey maker Ari Sussman, who, together with country music superstar Eric Church, founded JYPSI Whiskey. Watch, listen, and learn how this team of unlikely partners launched a new whiskey brand, formulated an innovative whiskey-making process—including some unique aging techniques—and mastered the art and science of blending whiskeys from across the globe. Plust, enjoy a taste of the fascinating history of punch—it hasn't always been a syrupy concoction served as children's birthday parties—in Papa Pogash's "Cocktail Commentary."

⁠THE COCKTAIL GURU SHOW ⁠ [https://www.thecocktailgurupodcast.com/]is produced by ⁠1st Reel Entertainment⁠ [https://1streelentertainment.com/] and distributed by ⁠EatsDrinksTV⁠ [https://www.youtube.com/EatsDrinksTV], a service of the ⁠Center for Culinary Culture⁠ [https://culinaryculture.center/]—Home of The Cocktail Collection, and is available wherever you enjoy your favorite shows.

The JYPSI Spirit with Raj Alva & Ari Sussman (TCGS S4 E1 Video Version)

Join Jonathan Pogash, the Cocktail Guru, and his father Jeffrey Pogash, as they dive into the world of whiskey with special guests Raj Alva and Ari Sussman from Whiskey JYPSI. In this season 4 premiere episode, they discuss the innovative whiskey-making process behind Whiskey JYPSI, the influence from the co-owner of the brand country music star Eric Church, and the art of blending international whiskeys.

From the origins of the brand to the unique aging techniques and the entrepreneurial spirit driving the project, this episode is a must-watch for whiskey enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike. Plus, get a taste of the fascinating history of punch in Jeffrey Pogash's Cocktail Commentary segment.

The JYPSI Spirit with Raj Alva & Ari Sussman (TCGS S4 E1)

Join us for the exciting second part of our Season 3 finale, recorded high atop New Orleans at Café Amélie, overlooking the vibrant French Quarter. In this special episode, we celebrate the spirit of New Orleans with a fantastic lineup of guests and delve into the world of cocktails, spirits, and hospitality.

New Orleans Season Finale Part 2 (TCGP S3 E21)

Hosts Jonathan and Jeffrey Pogash talk food, drink, entertainment and all things delicious, luxurious, and fun on The Cocktail Guru Podcast.