Happy 2026. This Episode is hosted by Chris Maffeo and brought to you by MAFFEO DRINKS. A Deep-Dive Analysis of This Episode is Available at maffeodrinks.com 

Welcome to the Maffeo Drinks Podcast! In this episode, I'm joined by Andrew Friedman, renowned bartender and ex-bar owner (Liberty, Seattle, WA) and the Founder of Industry Spirits, a Bartender-Owned Brand.

We explore the history and evolution of Seattle's cocktail scene, emphasizing the importance of customer service and the changing landscape of the bar industry.

Andrew shares his journey, insights into bar culture, and the challenges bartenders face as they transition to roles like brand ambassadors.

Whether you're a bar enthusiast or an industry professional, this episode offers a fascinating look into the dynamics of bar life and the dedication required to succeed.

Time Stamps

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:27 Guest Introduction: Andrew Friedman

02:50 Andrew's Journey in the Drinks Industry

04:29 The Seattle Cocktail Scene

07:23 The Evolution of Bartending

11:10 Balancing Stardom and Service

16:42 Career Reflections and Industry Insights

26:36 The Future of the Drinks Industry

32:16 Closing Remarks

About The Host: Chris Maffeo

About The Guest: Andrew Friedman

This episode is brought to you by MAFFEO DRINKS, an Advisory helping drinks leaders execute bottom-up growth while managing stakeholder expectations. You can get in touch at [email protected]