WHAT A LINEUP - In this roundtable discussion, I chat with some of the most notable figures from the cocktail industry.

I chat with

• Ricardo Nava, owner of Bar Mauro and Bacardi brand ambassador from Mexico City;
• Stefano Catino, director of the Maybe group and Maybe festival;
• Jacob Briars, Global advocacy director for Bacardi; and
• Agostino Perrone, Director of mixology at the Connaught Hotel in London.

They delve into their humble beginnings in the hospitality industry, discuss the importance of passion and curiosity, and weigh in on trends they’d like to see more or less of in the industry. The conversation also covers the evolution of cocktail competitions, and the significance of delivering unforgettable guest experiences. With a mix of humor, nostalgia, and valuable advice, this episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about the world of cocktails and hospitality.00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Remarks00:41 Meet the Guests: Introductions and Backgrounds01:00 Early Career Stories and First Hospitality Roles02:00 The Journey to Global Advocacy03:05 Building a Career in Mixology05:28 The Importance of Education and Networking20:36 Opening a Bar: Challenges and Successes26:49 Reflections on the Hospitality Industry32:09 The Importance of a Harmonious Home33:10 The Evolution of Cocktail Competitions34:31 The Birth of 42 Below's Extreme Competitions36:16 The Impact of Cocktail Competitions on Bartenders38:42 Challenges and Stories from the Bar45:42 Bartending Trends and Preferences54:04 Memorable Bars and Bartending Experiences01:01:05 Final Thoughts and Reflections