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What does it take to go from rolling silverware to becoming one of NYC's most respected bartenders? In this episode of Bar Talking Talking Bar, we sit down with Steven Ferreira, aka Kiwi, a Queens-born bartender whose journey through the hospitality industry is nothing short of inspiring.

Steven started in 2009 as a silverware roller at Boulder Creek Steakhouse while studying child development. From working at an airport bar to becoming head bartender, Steven absorbed every lesson the industry had to offer. A chance encounter with the book Liquid Intelligence changed everything—sparking his passion for craft cocktails and leading him to Manhattan's elite bar scene.

Working alongside legends like Joaquin Simó at the now-closed Pouring Ribbons, Steven honed his craft, became a brand ambassador, and built a reputation as a bartender who truly cares about the art. Now, he's pouring his heart into Mi Pana, a mamajuana-inspired spirit rooted in his Dominican heritage.

This episode is a masterclass in hustle, passion, and what it means to build a career in the bar industry. Whether you're a bartender, aspiring entrepreneur, or just love a great success story, this one's for you.

🎙️ GUEST: Steven "Kiwi" Ferreira (@KIWINIGRAM) 
📍 Current Bar: Aftermath NYC (@AFTERMATH.NYC) 
🍹 Drink Project: Mi Pana (Mamajuana-inspired spirit)


💬 LET'S TALK: What's your favorite craft cocktail? Drop it in the comments! 
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What happens when a criminal justice student trades textbooks for cocktail shakers?

Meet Rudy Manzur—Dominican-born, NYC-made, and the owner-operator of Aftermath, a beloved neighborhood bar in Ridgewood, NY.

Rudy's path wasn't linear. He came to New York to study at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, worked retail in the hat industry for Disney, traveled the country for events (including a Super Bowl), and never imagined he'd end up behind a bar.

Working as a barback at his cousin's beer bar, Rudy learned the ropes—the mistakes, the grind, the beauty of hospitality. He fell in love with the industry. He read every book he could find, absorbed wisdom from seasoned bartenders, and took a leap most people only dream about: he opened his own bar.

Now, Rudy runs Aftermath—a space where community, craft, and authenticity collide.


This is a story about taking risks, learning on the job, and creating something meaningful from scratch.

If you’re into hospitality industry insights,  this episode is for you!
🎙️ Bar Talking Talking Bar – Real stories from real people in hospitality.
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In this episode of Bar Talking Talking Bar we sit down with NATASHA ARCE, BAR MANAGER at SOMEDAY BAR in BROOKLYN, to talk about the journey from being a vet technician to becoming a NYC's LEAD BARTENDER—and the MENTAL HEALTH breakthrough that made it all possible.

Born in Philadelphia (and a die-hard Eagles fan 🦅), Natasha grew up watching her mom work behind the bar. Hospitality was always in her blood. But her path wasn't linear. After working as a vet technician, she realized the job wasn't her passion. A chance meeting with Megan Rickerson, founder of Someday Bar, changed everything. Megan didn't just offer her a job—she became a mentor, a friend, and the catalyst for Natasha's rise to Lead Bartender.

But the real turning point? Being diagnosed with ADHD. For Natasha, therapy and medication weren't just helpful—they were game-changers. Now, she's a fierce advocate for mental health, proving that taking care of your mind is just as important as perfecting your craft.

Recently engaged, Natasha credits her girlfriend with helping her balance the demanding world of NYC nightlife with family time and self-care. This is a story about mentorship, resilience, and the power of mental health advocacy.

Need Mental Health Support in NYC?
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. You are not alone.

• NYC 988 (formerly NYC Well): Call or text 988 (or chat at NYC 988 - Talk. Text. Chat. 24/7) for free, confidential support 24/7/365 in over 200 languages.
• Emergency: If in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
• NAMI-NYC: For free family and peer support classes and helplines, visit About NAMI-NYC or call 212-684-3264 NAMI-NYC | Mental Health Helpline - F.Y. Eye.
• NYS Office of Mental Health: Find additional local wellness tips and state resources at the New York State Office of Mental Health New York State Office of Mental Health.

🔔Subscribe to Bar Talking Talking Bar for honest, unfiltered conversations with the industry's best.
👍 Like this video if you believe mental health matters in hospitality!
💬 Comment below: How do you prioritize mental health in your career?

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What happens when you combine elite dining hospitality with unapologetic queer joy? You get the revolutionary world of Michael Aredes.

In this episode of Bar Talking Talking Bar, we sit down with Michael Aredes (@MICHAEL.TR4VIESO), the creative visionary behind the legendary queer Latinx pop-up Noche Traviesa (@n0che.tr4viesa.jaja) and his anticipated new venue, Dumb-Dumb.

Raised in California with proud Mexican and Puerto Rican roots, Michael’s passion for hospitality began with a simple childhood observation at a local Denny's—noticing how a great server could transform someone's day. When he arrived in New York City with nothing, he set out to recreate that magic on a grand scale.

From mastering service and wine at Boqueria to refining his deep spirits knowledge at the world-renowned Mexican destination Cosme, Michael built an elite foundation. He then took his talents to the acclaimed Superbueno before stepping out to build his own spaces. Recognizing a massive need for safe, high-energy, inclusive spaces for the LGBTQ+ Latinx community, he launched Noche Traviesa—a wild, vibrant party celebrating music, drag, and culture. Now, he is bringing his unique philosophy to Dumb-Dumb, a bar proving that high-end service doesn't have to take itself too seriously.

This conversation is a masterclass in identity, cultural representation, and building a business on your own terms.
If you’re into hospitality industry insights,  this episode is for you!

Follow Michael's Projects:
Instagram: @MICHAEL.TR4VIESO
Noche Traviesa: @n0che.tr4viesa.jaja

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What does it take to survive in New York City when you have nothing but a dream? This is the unflinching story of Elaine Romero.
Born in Brooklyn but raised in Puebla, Mexico, Elaine returned to NYC at 18, alone, to pursue an education. Instead, she was without support, leading to three years in a shelter. This is a story that begins not behind a bar, but with a fight for survival.
In this episode of Bar Talking Talking Bar, we trace Elaine's incredible ascent fueled by pure resilience. From a job at McDonald's to breaking into the hospitality industry, she faced discrimination for her identity, her accent, and for not having the industry's "look." Yet, her hunger for self-improvement and an unbreakable work ethic saw her rise from busser to barback to a sought-after bartender at exclusive venues like The Raines Law Room and The Bedford.

This episode is a testament to the human spirit and a must-watch for anyone who has ever been told they can't.
If you’re into hospitality industry insights,  this episode is for you!


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How does a military become one of New York City's most accomplished bartenders, working at three of North America's 50 Best Bars at the same time? This is the unfiltered story of Niel Flores.

In this powerful episode of Bar Talking Talking Bar, we uncover the incredible journey of a New Jersey native with Salvadorian roots who forged one of the most unique paths in the hospitality industry. Neil shares his experience in the military, including his time as a mortician, and the pivotal moment he realized his true calling was behind the bar.

This is a story about sheer grit. From starting as a barback with a dream of making it in Manhattan to simultaneously holding down positions at the legendary Employees Only, the iconic Katana Kitten, and the acclaimed Superbueno. Niel's journey is a masterclass in hustle, dedication, and what it truly means to succeed in the most competitive city on earth.

If you’re into hospitality industry insights,  this episode is for you! 

Explore 's world:
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@NIELWUFLO

 
WATCH FULL EPISODE HERE: https://youtu.be/MVrJDiviJZ4

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This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits. Drink Responsibly 

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What does it take to leave your home behind and build a name for yourself in the most competitive hospitality city in the world? In this episode of Bar Talking Talking Bar, we uncover the incredible personal story of Sam Willy, a man whose journey is as finely crafted as his cocktails.

We start in Switzerland and travel with Sam across the globe—from the vibrant scenes of South Africa and London to the demanding, high-profile bars of New York City. Long before he became a recognized industry leader, Sam was honing his craft, absorbing culture, and building a reputation for excellence at iconic NYC venues like Westlight and Gabriel Kreuther.

This is the story of the person behind the title. We explore the ambition that drove him to become a National Finalist in the prestigious Bacardí Legacy competition and the passion that ultimately led him to his current role as an Agave Advocacy Manager for Bacardí.

This episode is a tribute to the journey itself—a must-watch for anyone who believes in chasing a dream, no matter how far from home it takes you.

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In this episode of BAR TALKING TALKING BAR, we sit down with Erin Gabriella Birmingham, the multi-talented General Manager and Beverage Director of Thyme Bar, one of NYC's speakeasies.

Join us as we explore Erin's incredible journey from an art-focused upbringing in Ohio to becoming a recognized leader in the New York hospitality scene. Discover how her background in Fashion & Textile Technology and Studio Art provides the foundation for her creative process and management style. This isn't just a story about cocktails; it's a deep dive into how a passion for design, a strong work ethic, and a meandering career path through fashion and modeling can build a powerhouse in the beverage industry.

Whether you're a hospitality professional, a creative, or simply love a story about passion and dedication, this conversation with Erin Birmingham is for you.

🔔 Subscribe for more stories from the people shaping the beverage world.
👍 Like this video if you believe in following a unique career path.
💬 Comment below: How has another industry influenced your career?
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WATCH FULL EPISODE HERE: https://youtu.be/gcMmL3psV24

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@THYMEBAR_NYC

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Welcome back to Bar Talking Talking Bar! In this episode, we sit down with Alejandro Olivas-Castillo—Brand Lead at Edrington (producers of The Macallan & more)—to dive into the world of hospitality sales, brand ambassadorship, and community storytelling through photography.
You will learn about Alejandro’s journey from Chihuahua to Kansas City—and how Criminal Justice, Sociology and a passion for photography led him to Edrington. Inside the life of a lead team: driving sales, building relationships, and representing the Edrington’s company.
On his personal passion, photography, Alejando has been working on “A Great Day in Ñiu Yor” (AGDÑY): a 2026 photography community project & exhibition. Celebrating Latine & Indigenous creatives in NYC. This project is part of Photoville Festival, Brooklyn Bridge Park, May 16–30, 2026, curated by Alejandro (@mexicojuice) & Monica Patten (@lemonmonn). This is to show why cultural heritage & creative side projects matter in hospitality

Learn more about AGDÑY and view the portraits: https://agdny.org/

If you’re into hospitality industry insights, beverage sales, brand ambassador strategies, or community-driven art, this episode is for you!

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WATCH FULL EPISODE HERE: https://youtu.be/fMgTsRv_xIc

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Gerardo Bustamante — born in Mexico City, raised in Harlem, and shaped by summers in Miahuatlán, Oaxaca where his family produces mezcal.
In this episode of Bar Talking Talking Bar, Gerardo, or "G" as many know him ins this industry,  opens up about identity, belonging, and how an Xbox and a packed schedule at home pushed him into hospitality. From washing dishes at 16 to mastering speed and volume behind the bar. This episode is honest and packed with lessons for anyone building a life in hospitality.
Hear the stories that forged his voice: identity between two worlds, the grind behind Milly’s and Monkey Thief, and the pop-ups he runs to lift the Latino community. G has built a career that blends craft, community, and cultural pride.
🚨SUBSCRIBE, COMMENT AND SHARE  if you’re all about craft, culture, and the grind.🍸🚨

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