Heard!: Recent Episodes
Heard! Podcast
Heard! is a food, beverage, and hospitality podcast featuring interviews with leading industry professionals at the local and national level. The concept is a Detroit-based collaboration between the Detroit Optimist Society, the Hungry Dudes, and NickDrinks.com. Cheers!
Dr. Amy Latawiec, owner of Rebel Cycle Studio in Detroit, joins us. The holidays can be a stressful time. How do we navigate the desire to be healthy, tend to obligations, and remain happy during the “most joyful time of the year?” What does being healthy or fit even mean? Amy has been a trainer...
We talked to Nina and Meghan from Street Beet back in March 2019, just before their adventure to Los Angeles for the Vegan Street Fair. Since then, a lot has happened. Of course, they’re continuing their series of successful pop ups. They were also finalists for Hatch Detroit and they’re currently using IndieGoGo to fund...
In a mostly symbolic gesture, the House of Representatives voted to increase the minimum wage to $15/hr in Summer 2019. If the minimum wage were to increase, how would that impact hospitality businesses? We are joined by Sandy Levine, owner of The Oakland, Chartreuse, and the upcoming Freya and Dragonfly, and Frank Lanzkron-Tamarazo, owner of...
Chris Southern, General Manager & Director of Production of Detroit Vineyards, joins us to discuss what it’s like operating Detroit’s first winery in 60 years. Detroit Vineyards is inside the former Stroh’s Ice Cream building on Gratiot & Antietam. Southern has been with Detroit Vineyards for just five weeks, but he has big plans. To...
Sexual harassment in the restaurant industry is pervasive. According to a recent Harvard Business Review article, 90% of women and 70% of men report being harassed. I am joined this week by Melanie Mack, a bartendress, and my special co-host Sagen Isham of Working Class Outlaws. Our discussion starts with some facts about sexual harassment...
Last time we spoke with Matt Buskard, owner of Bobcat Bonnie’s, he was reopening the second Bobcat Bonnie’s in Wyandotte. Since Episode 56 in April 2018, Matt has reopened Wyandotte and has opened a new location in Ferndale and is about to open one in Ypsilanti. Opening one successful location is tricky, but what about...
Christine Anschuetz is the Pastry Chef at The Henry in Dearborn, MI. Christine attended culinary school in her 30s after leaving her job as a teacher. She has brought a lot of what she learned in teaching to her career as a chef. Her love of the culinary world is very evident. She chooses to...
Executive Chef Ken Miller and Restaurant Manager Jackie Phillips of Toasted Oak Grill & Market in Novi, MI, join us this week to discuss front and back of house operations of their award winning restaurant. Toasted Oak is inside of The Baronette Renaissance Detroit, but is much more than what you might assume a hotel...
Chef Teren Green (Chef T) joins us to talk about his path from cooking in Royal Oak to cooking for the 2019 FIFA World Cup Champions United States Women’s Soccer Team. Chef T made stops in upstate New York and Auburn Hills too. We discuss clean eating, recovery meals, superstitions, and much more. The importance...
“The Liquid Chef” Junior Merino is the Executive Chef at M Cantina in Dearborn, MI. Merino’s approach to food and drink is steeped in history, familial connections, and sensory exploration. Calling M Cantina, “a Mexican restaurant,” is only part of the story. Yes, Merino is cooking Mexican food, but his explanation of what that means...
In partnership with Schoolcraft College and their Culinary Program, Culinary Department Chair and Certified Master Chef Shawn Loving joins us to discuss his journey. From Schoolcraft Culinary School to working for Disney to opening Loving Spoonful in Farmington Hills to bringing his career full circle back at Schoolcraft, Chef Loving has done a lot in...
Mick Descamps, wine director at Red Wagon Wine Shoppe and advanced sommelier, believes media coverage on beverage programs has not kept with the coverage food gets around metro Detroit. Food & beverage work hand in hand to create a successful restaurant. We try to figure out why beverage doesn’t receive the attention it rightfully deserves....
Sagen Isham, marketing and events manager for the Working Class Outlaws, joins us to discuss what it’s like to manage the social media, philanthropic endeavors, events and more for Imperial, Public House, and Antihero. She is the voice of all three brands and is incredibly passionate about her job and everything that goes along with...
Justin King, owner of Bridge Street Social & the forthcoming Bar Mitena and advanced sommelier, joins us to discuss a whole range of wine related issues. Bridge Street Social has over 130 wines available by the glass and is located in the town of Dewitt, which has just over 4,500 people. It’s an unique concept,...
Carlos Parisi, owner of Aunt Nee’s/Sandwich Connoisseur/Host of Sandwich Talk Podcast/Pop Up Entrepreneur/Food Enthusiast, joins us to discuss all of his many roles and how he bends time & space to have enough hours in the day. You may know Aunt Nee’s from Eastern Market or your local grocery store. Carlos can be found all...
Chefs Brendon Edwards and Hailey Enszer from Gold Cash Gold in Detroit join me to discuss the very welcome change in seasons. We talk menu changes, cocktails, donuts, brunch, patios, and more. You can learn more about Gold Cash Gold at http://goldcashgolddetroit.com. Thanks for listening! Please take a moment to subscribe and review Heard! You...
Amy Sherman and John Gonzalez are the duo behind MLive’s wildly popular “Michigan’s Best” series. Hot off the announcement of their search for Michigan’s Best Waterfront Restaurant, Amy & John join me to discuss Michigan’s Best and how unique a project like this truly is. You can read all about Michigan’s Best at https://www.mlive.com/michigansbest/. Thanks...
Bob Bennett, head chef of Zingerman’s Roadhouse in Ann Arbor, Michigan, joins us to talk about biscuits, bacon, and so much more. Zingerman’s presents Camp Bacon this week. Camp Bacon focuses on educating attendees on the history of bacon, and best practices on farming and preparing bacon, all while supporting the Southern Foodways Alliance. Zingerman’s...
Mamba Hamissi, co-owner of Baobab Fare, joins us. Mamba and Nadia, his wife, are opening Detroit’s first East African restaurant. The journey to open Baobab Fare has been intense. Mamba paints a vivid narrative about his life leading up to opening a restaurant including fleeing Burundi as a refugee, learning English as his fifth language,...
Deni Smiljanovski, owner of Lazybones Smokehouse & partner in Brown Iron Brewhouse, joins us to discuss the longevity of Lazybones and what’s on the horizon for Brown Iron as they open a second Brown Iron location in Royal Oak. Deni is a classically trained chef, but is making the transition from chef to owner. We...
Yani, bartender and partner at Bad Luck Bar, joins us to discuss rum, his life leading up to opening Bad Luck, blending spirits, alcohol allocation, and much more. You can find out more about Bad Luck at https://www.badluckbar.com/ or on Instagram @badluckbar. Special thanks to Axle Brewing Co., our sponsor for this week’s episode. Axle...
Chef Allie Lyttle joins us to talk about her upcoming brunch residency at Revolver in Hamtramck and food tours with Detroit History Tours. Allie has worked in multiple kitchens over the years. Running the Revolver kitchen will the next adventure on her culinary path. To learn more about Allie’s brunches, visit https://www.revolverhamtramck.com/. Thanks for listening!...
Michelle Rodriguez, chef/owner of Amor Comida, joins us all the way from Traverse City. We talk about her stay in Detroit, where she ate, and what she learned. Even at the young age of 31, Michelle has lived an adventurous life, but with adventures come highs and lows. You can follow Michelle on Instagram @amor_comida....
Chef Jeremy Kalmus joins us to talk about his journey from culinary school to chef to chef/business owner. Jeremy has worked in restaurants, Ford Field, and now for himself. We focus on work life balance because it is often forgotten about in the restaurant industry. You can learn about Ruckus Taco at ruckustaco.com. Thanks for listening!...
EPISODE 100! For this sweet occasion, we are joined by the co-owner of Good Cakes and Bakes, April Anderson. Situated on the “Avenue of Fashion,” in Detroit, Good Cakes and Bakes is more than a bakery, it is a community space opened to anyone who wishes to spend time there. As a bakery that uses...
Meghan Shaw and Nina Paletta, creators/owners of Street Beet, join us to talk about their wildly popular vegan pop up series based off fast food restaurants. By creating vegan versions of accessible fast food dishes, Street Beet is widening awareness of vegan cooking. You can find more about Street Beet, including their event schedule, at...
Adela Bejo, owner and baker of HipHopBakeShop.com, joins us to discuss her journey from Albania to Detroit to Chicago and back to Detroit. Moving to the United States at 12 years old, Adela learned a lot from hip hop and it impacted her life forever. Her passion is Hip Hop Bake Shop, currently an online...
With a lot of media coverage focused on new restaurants in Detroit, there is very little focus given to Detroit residents who cannot afford to eat at those restaurants. Kibibi Blount-Dorn is the Education and Engagement Program Manager for the Detroit Food Policy Council. With close to 50% of Detroit households facing food insecurity, the...
Michael Barrera, executive chef/partner at Latido at Joebar, joins us to discuss his new restaurant concept inside Joebar in Hazel Park. Latido is a Latin American concept rooted in culture, cuisine, and creativity helmed by Barrera and Chef de Cuisine Moses Fishman. We talk about work culture, training, Michael’s previous jobs, and more. Mark Kurlyandchik...
Cliff Skighwalker, host of Thrillist’s Instachef and the chef behind Cliff’s Pizza, joins us to talk about his wildly popular new series and his blossoming Detroit Style Pizza business. Instachef’s first season recently ended and it included a powerhouse list of celebrities including Big Sean, Machine Gun Kelly, Leslie Grace, and more. Cliff’s Pizza is...
Anthony Morrow, owner of Pulp Media & producer of Detroit Cocktail Week, joins us to talk about the many facets of event planning. Detroit Cocktail Week is a signature event all around metro Detroit and started as the Detroit Cocktail Classic. We also talk about the passing away of Olga Loizon, the Olga behind Olga’s...
Grace Keros, third generation of American Coney Island, joins us to talk about her 100+ year old business that has made the Coney Dog famous. The Coney Dog is one of Detroit’s quintessential foods. American Coney Island has three locations – Detroit, the Detroit Zoo, and Las Vegas inside The D Hotel – and they...
Just like how we started 2018, we begin 2019 with Mallory Brown. We left off last year with Mallory embarking on Walk a Mile, an initiative where she walks a mile with 26 different women from different countries. We focus on her first video that takes place in Tanzania with Elizabeth, a woman who makes...
Rachel Lutz owns The Peacock Room, Yama, and Frida, 3 retail stores in Detroit. Though these stores are different, there is a very strong focus on hospitality in each. We talk to Rachel about her stores, her thoughts on customer service & hospitality, and much more. This is our last episode of 2018! Thanks for...
Chef Kieron Hales has an incredibly storied past. From cooking for the Queen of England to cooking for multiple Presidents of the United States to becoming a sous chef at Zingerman’s Roadhouse, Hales’ history is impressive. He joins us to discuss his past, his present position as managing partner at Zingerman’s Cornman Farms, and his...
Travis Fahley, Michigan Farm Bureau Board Director & full time farmer, joins us to discuss his life as a farmer. Travis is a 3rd generation cash crop farmer from Emmett, MI. Michigan Farm Bureau is the state’s largest general agricultural organization that advocates and lobbies on behalf of its members and the agriculture industry at...
Ken Schramm, owner of Schramm’s Mead and the author of The Compleat Meadmaker, joins us to talk about mead. Mead is an alcoholic beverage created by fermenting honey with water, sometimes with various fruits, spices, grains, or hops. Schramm’s Mead is widely regarded as some of the best mead in the world. We learn a...
There’s no talk of birds in this episode. Instead we discuss the fascination world of bees with the founder of Bees in the D, Brian Peterson-Roest. We spend some time differentiating between bees and wasps, then we get to the sweet stuff – honey! Brian is incredibly passionate about bees and their positive impact on...
Sandy Levine, owner of The Oakland Art Novelty Company and Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails, sits down with Joe to discuss how things have changed since opening The Oakland. From opening one of metro Detroit’s first craft cocktail bars to opening a restaurant in Detroit to planning a Hospitality Workshop, Sandy has a lot of fascinating...
Zach Berg, owner of Mongers’ Provisions in Ferndale and (soon to be) Detroit, talks the world and history of cheese with us. Cheese is widely consumed, often times as a condiment of sorts. Zach explains how we have arrived at this point and how we can seek out cheese mongers like him to point us...
MyThy Huynh, also known as @MightyintheMitten on Instagram, joins us to discuss her very popular Instagram account and her upcoming kitchen takeover at Hazel Park’s Mabel Gray. We offer congratulations to Motor City Gas and Black Star Farms for the recent national press they have received and we bid farewell to another Royal Oak restaurant....
Will Branch, co-owner of Corridor Sausage, joins us to talk about growing Corridor Sausage from farmer’s markets all the way to Kroger. Based out of Detroit, Corridor Sausage can now be found in over 130 Kroger stores across Michigan. We discuss Will’s insistence on using only the finest ingredients and how that has impacted Corridor...
Hospitality aficionado and bartender Joe Schubert joins us to discuss etiquette. From being a host to being a guest, we discuss the proper way to act in certain situations. We also talk about reviews and how to handle less than great service in restaurants and bars. You can follow Joe’s bartending escapades on Instagram @Spirits_Counselor....
Chef Doran Brooks joins us to talk about White Wolf Japanese Patisserie, a Japanese bakery & coffee bar opening in Clawson some time in early 2019. White Wolf will be one of the only Japanese bakeries in metro Detroit. You can learn more about White Wolf and keep track of its progress at https://www.whitewolfbakery.com/. Thanks...
Adam Merkel, chef/owner of Adam Merkel Restaurants, joins us to discuss his growing group of restaurants. Merkel started in Milford and is in the process of opening two new places in Royal Oak. Merkel Restaurants are heavily focused on hospitality and quality of life for employees. Thanks for listening! Please take a moment to subscribe...
Megan Ackroyd, owner of Ackroyd’s Scottish Bakery, joins us to discuss the pros and cons of taking over her family business. Small business ownership brings with it certain types of stress and also gratification. Owning a nearly 70 year old family business brings additional issues. Megan touches on some of those issues. You can learn...
Chef Brandon Zarb joins us to discuss his recent transition from chef to educator. Brandon recently left an executive chef position to take on a role as an educator at Rising Stars Academy in Centerline, MI. Rising Stars Academy is a school for students ages 18-26 with special needs. They provide a unique curriculum, rooted...
Hospitality Consultant Genevieve Jona joins us to discuss a range of issues from Lafayette Coney Island now accepting credit cards, operating as a cash only business, bar design and how it impacts employees, and much more. We also offer some marketing advice that should be considered. Thanks for listening! Please take a moment to rate...
This week we welcome Erick Castro aka @hungrybartender from the @bartenderatlarge team. We discuss his pop-up at Sugar House Detroit, the first iteration of his bartender documentary, his successful beverage podcast and myriad of topics surrounding cocktails and cocktail culture. Listen to the podcast to hear his West Coast celebrity stories too. Thanks for listening!...
Madeline Puckette, co-founder of Wine Folly, joins us via phone to talk about her new book, Wine Folly: Magnum Edition: The Master Guide. If Wine Folly’s mission can be distilled to two words, it would be “simplify wine.” Through the use of whimsical illustrations, informative maps, and more, Wine Folly tries to demystify wine in...
Visiting every Michigan brewery is quite a feat – doing it all in one year seems almost impossible. Almost because Emily Bennett, otherwise known as Mitten Beer Girl, did just that in 2017. She joins us to discuss her beer journey. We also discuss happy hour and offer some suggestions of our favorite happy hour...
Chef & Butcher Aramis Jones of the soon to open Gratiot Avenue Provisions joins us to discuss whole animal butchering, charcuterie, and his recent Chef’s Table dinner. We also talk about the science behind curing meat, the differences between salami & salumi, how to build a great charcuterie board, and more. For more on Gratiot...
Antonio Lopez, part of the family who owns Tequila Cabresto, talks to us about owning a Detroit based Tequila company. From their agave fields in Jalisco all the way to the bottle, the Lopez family knows tequila. We talk about Cabresto’s different varieties, the lack of tequila bars in Detroit, and more. At the beginning...
Zack Sklar, founder of Peas & Carrots Hospitality and chef, joins us to talk about their recent acquisition of Como’s in Ferndale. We also discuss Zack’s thoughts on being a restauranteur, opening restaurants across a broad range of concepts, fried chicken, and more. What are your thoughts on “best of” lists? We talk about a...
Michael Fair, owner of Black Ink Bitters, joins us to discuss the importance of bitters in cocktails and what goes into running a bitters business. Before we get bitter, we discuss the fairly controversial Detroit Free Press review of Empire Kitchen + Cocktails. Is Detroit ready for negative restaurant reviews? You can learn more about...
We take this episode on the road as we travel to Red Wagon Wine Shoppe in Rochester Hills to visit the Ultimate Ardbeg Escape Bus. This bus will be touring around the United States and started its journey in metro Detroit. David Weiss, Ardbeg’s brand manager, talks Ardbeg and all of its peaty goodness with...
Stephen B. Beam, head distiller at Limestone Branch, joins us to discuss bourbon, the rich history of distilling in his family, and much more. Stephen has been distilling for decades, so we try to distill that knowledge in this hour. Thanks for listening! You can learn more about Limestone Branch at http://limestonebranch.com. We’d love to...
Robyn Cleveland, co-owner of Norden Spirits, joins us to discuss the launch of Norden Aquavit – available in Michigan in early July. Robyn is a bartender turned distiller who is focused on making aquavit more mainstream. Aquavit is a Scandanavian spirit that is experiencing a resurgence recently. We also discuss the Red Hen incident with...
Personal trainer Lavar Green joins us to talk health & wellness. Lavar works with the Detroit Police Department Physical Training and Defensive Staff. We cover a wide range of topics including intermittent fasting, clean eating, bodybuilding, and even being tazed. Thanks for listening! For more on Heard!, please follow @heardpodcast on Instagram and visit http://heardpodcast.com...
Stephen B. Beam, head distiller at Limestone Branch, joins us to discuss bourbon, the rich history of distilling in his family, and much more. Stephen has been distilling for decades, so we try to distill that knowledge in this hour. Thanks for listening! You can learn more about Limestone Branch at http://limestonebranch.com. We’d love to...
Chef/owner of Khom Fai, Isaiah Sonjeow joins us to talk Thai food, bourbon, restaurant expansion, and more. He brings three kinds of curry and two kinds of bourbon including a curry made with ghost peppers. Tune in to see if we can handle the ghost pepper challenge. Thanks for listening! If you like what you...
Chef Johnny Prep, owner of Mr. B’s Gastropub in Royal Oak, MI, joins us to discuss the tremendous amount of change he has brought to the 35 year old restaurant since taking ownership about 4 years ago. Mr. B’s has evolved from being a sports bar & nightclub to a gastropub/arcade/nightclub and there’s even a...
Matt Mergener, co-owner of the soon to be open Lost River in Detroit, joins us to talk tiki, of course. Lost River will be Detroit’s newest tiki bar when it opens this summer. We talk tiki history, tiki drinks, tiki decor, tiki music, tiki everything. From Don The Beachcomber to Tonga Room to Psycho Suzi’s...
Ashley Price has been with Holiday Market in Royal Oak for more than 10 years. As the beer manager, he’s seen the entire landscape of beer (and bourbon) change in that time. Ashley’s outlook on retail is strategic & passionate. To follow Ashley on social media, follow “Holiday Market Beer.” Thanks for listening! If you’re...
Elie Boudt, owner of Elie Wine Company, joins us to talk about his methodology in operating his wine store. Elie Wine Company was recently chosen by Punch Magazine as one of the five retailers changing how we buy wine. Boudt’s philosophy involves traveling (he just returned from a week in Spain where he tasted close...
Anthony Lombardo, proprietor and chef of SheWolf Detroit, joins us to discuss opening his new restaurant. As you listen, you will hear about Anthony’s never ending desire to learn and how it has shaped his culinary career. SheWolf isn’t open yet, but hopes to be open some time in June 2018. You can learn more...
Matt Buskard, owner of Bobcat Bonnie’s, joins us to talk about the start of Bobcat Bonnie’s in Detroit and its success. We discuss opening another location in Wyandotte, closing that location, and reopening again – all in the span of 6 months. Matt is incredibly candid about his business and unforeseen issues that often arise...
We sit down with Mickey Lyons, Detroit’s resident barcheologist, to discuss the 100 year anniversary of prohibition. Though it only lasted about 15 years, prohibition had an incredible impact on American history. You can learn more about Mickey at http://prohibitiondetroit.com. Thanks for listening!
Jarred Gild, project development manager of Western Market in Ferndale, joins us to discuss the world of independent grocery stores. Jarred is especially knowledgeable about wine (specifically natural wine), so we focus primarily on wine. Western Market has been in Ferndale for 35 years and Jarred has been there since 2008. The evolution of Western...
Stephen Roginson of Batch Brewing and Feelgood Tap joins us to talk about beer, opening a brewery, community engagement, and turning buying a pint into an altruistic endeavor. Batch Brewing opened in 2015 and had been gaining momentum ever since. The Feelgood Tap is brilliant in its simplicity, especially how easy it is for consumers...
Joe Nader and Scott Breazeale, owners of Guilt Chocolates and Hardcore Meals, are with us to discuss the world of chocolate. From sourcing to producing to selling, Joe and Scott discuss it all. They are also opening a production facility in Redford that will house Guilt Chocolates and Hardcore Meals, their meal prep and planning...
Whoa! 50 Episodes! We start this week with a little fanfare and a bit of champagne from Elie Wine Company, some mezcal from La Damajuana Mezcal Boutique in Cabo, & Henry McKenna 10 year bourbon. Matt Romine, founder of Farm Field Table, joins us to discuss the incredible success and growth of his Ferndale butcher...
For more than five years, Kelsey Hubbell has been bartending at the Majestic Complex (Garden Bowl, Magic Stick, Majestic Theater), but that’s just our jumping off point. She is also a tremendous community activist and has launched a socially conscious consulting agency called Roots to Rise Detroit. She also co-founded Detroit Up North. Kelsey is...
Ping Ho, co-owner of The Royce and the upcoming Marrow, joins us to discuss wine, opening a butcher shop/restaurant, and more. Ho was born in Singapore, worked in the music industry in New York for more than a decade, then moved to Detroit to open The Royce. Her passion & knowledge are undeniable.
Not too long ago Chef Maxcel Hardy was NBA superstar Amar’e Stoudemire’s personal chef in Los Angeles. Presently, Chef Max is focused on Detroit with River Bistro in Rosedale Park and two more places slated open in the near future. Not only is Chef Max working in restaurants, but he’s also doing a lot to...
We are joined by Serena Daniels, food journalist and recent recipient of a grant from the Detroit Journalism Engagement Fund for Tostada Magazine. Serena’s mission with Tostada Magazine, “is journalism that speaks to the rich culture of Metro Detroit’s food scene. We seek to shift the focus of food writing in the Detroit area by...
Our first episode of 2018 is focused on changing the world. We’re joined by Mallory Brown of Travel Mal. Mallory is trying to make the world a better place through social entrepreneurship and global humanitarianism, especially in developing countries. Her next project, “Walk a Mile,” is fascinating and she needs our help! Listen in to...
Thanks to everyone who attended our Industry Writers’ Meet Up at Bad Luck Bar. Shout out to Long Road Distillers, Wright & Co, Yani, Chas, Mike, and everyone who donated prizes! Grey Ghost Beverage Director and Bartender extraordinaire, Will Lee joins us to discuss Detroit hospitality and it’s cocktail scene. We talk about Grey Ghost...
We dive deep into our beer cellars as we welcome Robert Allen, “Spirits of Detroit,” columinst from the Detroit Free Press to drink some beer and discuss beer and spirits around metro Detroit. How does four year old Bells Hopslam taste? What about 15 year old North Coast Brewing Old Stock Ale? Listen to find...
We’re finally talking about cider. Nicole Ward from Forgotten Ciders in Wheeler, Michigan, joins us to answer some pressing questions regarding apples and cider. Eastman’s Orchard grows hundreds of varieites of apples and many of them are included in their ciders. Of course, we sample some Forgotten Ciders and discuss the lovely tart intricacies of...
Given its staus as one of the most consumed beverages in the world and ubiquitousness in households, coffee is often taken for granted. We spend an hour poring over coffee with Brad Kopek, owner of White Pine Coffee, a Michigan Micro-Roastery. Specialty coffee, like White Pine Coffee, is just a small subset of the coffee...
It’s Detroit Cocktail Week! We’re joined by Chef James Rigato to talk about Hot Dogs for Dogs, a fundraiser for Detroit Dog Rescue happening November 26 through December 3. We sip on some Smooth Ambler Old Scout and hear about Jason‘s recent trip to West Virginia. James is the chef/owner at Mabel Gray (http://mabelgraykitchen.com). Thanks...
It’s National Gin Day, so we start with our first on air martini making demonstration lead by our guest, Chef Kate Williams, chef & owner of Lady of the House (https://www.ladyofthehousedetroit.com/) in the Corktown neighborhood of Detroit. Kate has had an interesting few years in the Detroit restaurant scene. We talk about the experiences that...
It’s an episode for the ages when Wes Pikula, VP of Operations for Buddy’s Pizza, and Dean Georgelos, franchisee for Giordano’s Pizza, join us in studio to talk Detroit versus Chicago style pizza. Why is Detroit style pizza experiencing so much popularity nationwide? How many people does it take to build a Giordano’s deep dish...
Zach Typinski, owner and brewer of Urbanrest Brewing in Ferndale, MI, joins us to talk about being a true neighborhood brewery. In its first months of business, Urbanrest has already expanded brewing capacity once and has plans to expand again. We talk about brewing equipment, the business of brewing, and Nick is feeling especially punny...
Travis Fritts, owner and brewer at Old Nation Brewing Company in Williamston, MI, joins us to delve into the populatiy of M43, Old Nation’s version of a New England IPA. We also taste through more than half of the New Orthodox Series, which M43 started. For more information on Old Nation Brewing Company, visit http://oldnationbrewing.com....
Ben Jones, creator of BestinBourbon.com, joins us to talk about the fascinating life of being a bourbon influencer on Instagram. We sip on some incredible barrel strength bourbons and discuss the sketchiness of the bourbon secondary market. Is that Pappy Van Winkle you bought on eBay really Pappy? We appreciate you listening to Heard!, if...
Kyle VanStrien, owner of Long Road Distillers in Grand Rapids, joins us to continue our Bourbon Heritage Month coverage. We don’t talk about bourbon too much, though, because Kyle brings his tremendous Beer City Whisky series AND two kinds of Aquavit. What’s Aquavit? Listen to find out – it’s an absolutely fascinating and delicious discussion....
Michael Forsythe, one of the owners of Detroit City Distillery, joins us to kick off our Bourbon Heritage Month coverage. Detroit City Distillery recently released Butcher’s Cut Bourbon. We discuss what goes into distilling a bourbon, the thin margins involved with selling bourbon, and competing against bourbons that have wider distribution and broader name recognition....
Dustin Walker, food and beverage director at Trumbull and Porter Hotel, joins us to talk about his experience working at this historic Detroit hotel. Going from hired to training to opening in about ten days seems unlikely, but Dustin worked tirelessly to make it happen. And since millennials are killing Applebee’s (and so many other...
Liz Martinez, sommelier of the soon to be open luxury steakhouse Prime & Proper, joins us to talk about her style of hospitality, how she writes a wine list, and how she’s been trying to figure out Detroit’s wine scene. Liz’s nomadic lifestyle is explored as she talks about her time in Denver, San Francisco,...
Hillary Sawchuk, creator and host of A Drink With, joins us to discuss how her desire to have a drink with industry leaders turned into a successful website, video series, and now podcast. Joe tries his first Bloody Mary using Detroit’s own Stout Bloody Mary mix. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/338201592″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Ben Robison, pastry chef of Bistro 82 and The Morrie, joins us to talk about the burgeoning Detroit pastry scene. We discuss his path to becoming head pastry chef at Bacco, his move to Local Kitchen in Ferndale, and his current position at Bistro 82 and The Morrie. As with many of our episodes, we...
Jesse Knott (a/k/a CorktownJesse), former executive chef at Standby, joins us to discuss his move from Standby to a new food cart that will be in The Belt Alley. While he’ll still be in the Standby kitchen, the food will completely different, think food you would eat while watching baseball in North India. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/336045192″...
Heard Podcast, Episode 24 – Telling Tales about Tales of The Cocktail Liz Cosby, president of the Greater Detroit chapter of the United States Bartenders Guild, joins us to discuss her recent trip to Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans. Also, it’s Lobster Roll Week at Mudgie’s so we most definitely are eating lobster...
Heard Podcast, Episode 23 – Tea Time with Joseph Wesley Uhl Joe Uhl of Joseph Wesley Tea Importers talks with us about the storied history of tea, one of the world’s most popular beverages. We discuss the traditions, politics, and economics of tea and how Joe started a tea brand focused only on the best...
Heard! Podcast, Episode 22 – Photography in the age of Instagram Photographer Jacob Lewkow joins us to discuss how he became a photographer and how the photography business has changed in recent years. We also discuss a recent Eater article entitled, “Instagram Food is a Sad, Sparkly Lie,” and how influencers have changed the way...
Heard! Podcast, Episode 21 – GINORMOUS Podcast about Ginormous Foods We talk to Josh Denny, host of Food Network’s Ginormous Foods, about his recent Detroit adventure including a 15 pound arepa and 3 pound sausage. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/331759927″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard! Podcast, Episode 20 – The Wine Counselor [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/330474702″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard! Podcast, Episode 19 – Live Launch Party from Sugar House [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/330468727″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard! Podcast, Episode 18 – Bigalora Expansion, Vertical Integration, and Buying a Brewery Chef Luciano DelSignore and Michael Chetcuti, partners in Bigalora, Baia Estate, and Arbor Brewing, join us to discuss brand expansion, vertical integration, and the nuance of purchasing a beloved brewery. We sip on a couple special beers from Arbor Brewing and the...
Heard! Podcast, Episode 17 – Talking Shop and Drinking Juleps Greg Mudge of Mudgie’s in Corktown joins us on Mint Julep Day to talk about issues facing the hospitality industry in Detroit and nationally. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/325413343″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard! Podcast, Episode 16 James Beard award winning host of The Four Top podcast and auhtor of Rosé All Day, Katherine Cole joins us to discuss the rosé craze and what winning a James Beard award feels like. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/324480030″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard! Podcast, Episode 15 Mick Descamps and Kat Hawkins are both sommeliers on the path to becoming Master Sommeliers. We discuss what being a sommeliers means to each of them, drink some wine (of course), and get lead through a blind tasting of a mystery wine. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/324002751″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard! Podcast, Episode 14 Sommeliers Shannon and Cortney Casey, owners of Michigan by the Bottle, join us to discuss their transistion from blog to Michigan wine store empire. We sample three different wines from three different Michigan wineries. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/321957371″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard! Podcast, Episode 13 – Live from the Michigan Wine Showcase To start off Michigan Wine Month, we are live at the Michigan Wine Showcase at The Rattlesnake. We speak with Michigan winemakers and Master Sommelier Claudia Tyagi. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/320564560″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard! Podcast, Episode 12 Media personality Travis Wright joins us to talk about his new TV show concept, “It’s Your Show, I’m Just Hosting It.” [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/319659639″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard! Podcast, Episode 11 – Live from Sugarhouse with The Violet Hour [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/318371941″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard Podcast, Episode 10 – Let’s Get Ready to RUMble Joe Rob, managing partner of the Standby and The Skip, joins us to discuss the Detroit cocktail scene and popping up on James Beard Foundation’s radar. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/317397991″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard! Podcast, Episode 9 – From James Beard to Chef’s Table, who gets fired by voicemail? Sarah Welch, formerly executive chef at Republic, joins us to talk about her experiences and future plans. Dave and Jason just returned from NYC where they attended a James Beard House dinner prepared by Chef Marc Djzolija of Wright...
Heard! Podcast, Episode 8 Chefs Jake Williams and Dorothy Hernandez from Sarap: A Filipino Pop-up to discuss the prevalence of sponsored posts on Instagram, the Detroit pop up scene, and bringing their brand of Filipino food to the masses. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/315280413″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard! Podcast, Episode 7 – Ashley Routson, The Beer Wench Ashley Routson, beer aficionado and blogger as The Beer Wench, joins us to talk about some of the darker sides of the service industry. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/314209394″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard Podcast, Episode 6 – Live from Sugar House with Glenfiddich Brand Ambassador Glenfiddich National brand ambassador David Allardice joins us live at The Sugar House to talk all things scotch! [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/311355133″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard Podcast, Episode 5 Three Dudes, a bottle of rum and a gallon of cooking sherry [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/310764809″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard Podcast, Episode 4 – Detroit finally gets a Shake Shack Hot off the heels of friends and family day at Shake Shack Detroit, we discuss our thoughts on the location, food, and all things Shake Shack. We taste some Yellowstone limited edition Bourbon. Shake Shack culinary director Mark Rosati joins us to discuss the...
Heard Podcast, Episode 3 – Michigan’s own Chef Kim Ryan wins Hell’s Kitchen Michigan’s own Chef Kim Ryan takes the winning title of Hell’s Kitchen 2017. We have her on the podcast talking about the show, Gordon Ramsey as well has her experiences in professoinal kitchens including sexisum. Also this show we talked about the...
Heard Podcast, Episode 2 – G&T WTF Camper English,spirits journalist, blogger, and author out of San Franscisco, joins us to talk about his new book on Gin & Tonic. [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/310764793″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]
Heard Podcast, Episode 1 [soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/310764787″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”450″ iframe=”true” /]