Buy Like a Guy

Me and Derek, our resident bourbon expert, explore more aspects of the bourbon world, including brand loyalty, the cost of collecting bourbon, and the emotional connection people have with their favorite brands.

We talk about 'taters' (bourbon enthusiasts who wait in line for rare bottles and collect them without opening) as well as some other bourbon slang, such as the 'angel's share' (the alcohol vapor that evaporates from the barrel during aging) and the 'devil's cut' (the bourbon that soaks into the wood of the barrel).

What about a "fake tan," a reference to distillers adding artificial caramel coloring to bourbon to make it appear like it has aged longer. We also discuss bourgon related topics like the difference between whiskey and bourbon, the use of flavorings and finishes, the importance of glassware, and the moonshine.

We cover a lot, and I can tell you that it brought up another idea for our next episode: History Lessons from the Bourbon World.

Takeaways

• The bourbon world is more complex and involved than expected, with a wide range of brands and information to explore.
• Brand loyalty is common among bourbon enthusiasts, who find emotional connections to their favorite brands.
• Collecting bourbon can be costly, especially when seeking rare and limited-edition bottles.
• The 'angel's share' refers to the alcohol vapor that evaporates from the barrel during aging, while the 'devil's cut' is the bourbon that soaks into the wood of the barrel.
• There are discussions about the possibility of distillers adding artificial caramel coloring to bourbon to make it appear aged longer. Bourbon is a type of whiskey that must meet specific legal requirements, including being made in the United States and aged in new charred oak barrels.
• Flavorings can be added to whiskey, but not to bourbon. However, bourbon can be finished in different barrels to add additional flavors.
• The choice of glassware, such as the Glencairn glass, can enhance the tasting experience by concentrating aromas and maintaining the temperature of the whiskey.
• Moonshine refers to illegally distilled spirits, and the term should not be used to describe legally produced grain liquor.
• Personal preference plays a significant role in choosing and enjoying bourbon, and there is no right or wrong way to drink it.

If you need expert advice about something you don't know much about, and need a little guidance, send me an email at [email protected] and I'll do my best to cover it in an upcoming show.

If you're "that guy," (and of course you can be a woman) that people should hear from because you know your sh*t about a certain subject, please reach out to me, and let's talk about how we can work together.

Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.

Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987

[Look at me. I'm your expert now.] In this episode, I'm going to talk about the different materials used to make men's wedding rings. I'll cover the most popular options like gold, platinum, titanium, tungsten carbide, palladium, tantalum, and cobalt, and touch on additional materials you've heard of, and probably not heard of. (A ring made with breast milk?)

I'll explain the advantages and disadvantages of each material and ultimately settle on the most important aspect to consider: your personal likes and dislikes. (I know...revolutionary!)

Key Takeaways:

• Gold: A timeless choice, but prone to scratching and denting.
• Platinum: Durable, tarnish-resistant, and patina-prone.
• Titanium: Lightweight, hypoallergenic, but non-resizable.
• Tungsten Carbide: Ultra-durable, but can shatter.
• Palladium: Platinum-like, but potentially pricier.
• Tantalum: Shades of gray, with resizing challenges.
• Cobalt: Affordable, bright white, but not easily resized.
• Even More Materials: From meteorite to breast milk. There are almost endless choices for rings these days.
• The most Important Thing: The most important factor when choosing a wedding ring is personal preference.

If you need expert advice about something you don't know much about, and need a little guidance, send me an email at [email protected] and I'll do my best to cover it in an upcoming show.

If you're "that guy," (and of course you can be a woman) that people should hear from because you know your sh*t about a certain subject, please reach out to me, and let's talk about how we can work together.

Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.

Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987

Tim Jackson and I continue our discussion about fine watches, and what makes them "tick." Tim is the Founder and Owner of Independent in Time, a company that deals in watches made by Independent Watchmakers from around the world.

We cover a lot of ground here, including different watch options, brands, and other things to consider when choosing the perfect timepiece.

Key Takeaways:

• Well known watch brands are a great starting point for discovering what kind of style appeals to you. If the price tag is out of reach, all is not lost! There are alternatives.
• Micro brands are emerging as exciting contenders. These smaller, enthusiast-driven companies offer unique designs, quality craftsmanship, and affordability.
• Questions to ask yourself: Is historical prestige essential, or are you open to newer players? Do you prioritize performance, aesthetics, or both?
• Explore micro brands that blend innovation with affordability. They often deliver impressive features and designs.

If you need expert advice about something you don't know much about, and need a little guidance, send me an email at [email protected] and I'll do my best to cover it in an upcoming show.

If you're "that guy," (and of course you can be a woman) that people should hear from because you know your sh*t about a certain subject, please reach out to me, and let's talk about how we can work together.

Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.

Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987

In this episode we're going to talk about watches with Tim Jackson, the Founder and Owner of Independent in Time. He deals in watches that are made by Independent Watchmakers from around the world. When it comes to watches, he knows his sh*t.

We talk about the basics of buying a "nice watch," the appeal of owning and collecting fine watches, the different kinds of movements, and ultimately, what you should look for when you're shopping for a fine quality watch.

Key Takeaways:

• Buying a watch is often about more than just telling time; it can be a form of self-expression and a way to communicate personal style.
• There are different types of watch movements, including mechanical (self-winding) and quartz (battery-powered), each with its own advantages and characteristics.
• Determining the quality of a watch can be subjective, but factors such as price, reputation, and craftsmanship can be indicators of a well-made timepiece.
• The watch industry has a wide range of brands and styles to suit different tastes and budgets, from classic and traditional designs to avant-garde and modern aesthetics.
• Marketing and brand reputation play a significant role in the perception and value of watches, with certain brands commanding higher prices due to their heritage and reputation for quality.

If you need expert advice about something you don't know much about, and need a little guidance, send me an email at [email protected] and I'll do my best to cover it in an upcoming show.

If you're "that guy," (and of course you can be a woman) that people should hear from because you know your sh*t about a certain subject, please reach out to me, and let's talk about how we can work together.

Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.

Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987

In this episode my guest, Leland Conway, provides valuable insights on buying a handgun for the uninitiated.

He emphasizes the importance of not relying solely on friends' recommendations or the advice of gun store employees, as the choice of a handgun is a personal and individual decision. (There are exceptions, and he'll cover that as well.)

Leland recommends taking a basic firearms class to learn about gun safety, recoil, and different types of handguns. He also suggests going to a gun range and renting different guns to find one that feels comfortable and fits well in the hand. Leland also highlights the importance of responsible gun ownership and the need for proper training and knowledge.

Click here to learn more and follow Leland Conway: https://khow.iheart.com/featured/leland-conway/

My Takeaways:

• Don't rely on friends' recommendations or gun store employees when buying a handgun; it's a personal choice.
• Take a basic firearms class first to learn about gun safety, recoil, and different types of handguns.
• Go to a gun range and rent different guns to find one that feels comfortable and fits well in your hand.
• Responsible gun ownership requires proper training and knowledge.

If you need expert advice about something you don't know much about, and need a little guidance, send me an email at [email protected] and I'll do my best to cover it in an upcoming show.

If you're "that guy," (and of course you can be a woman) that people should hear from because you know your sh*t about a certain subject, please reach out to me, and let's talk about how we can work together.

Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.

Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987

In this episode, Pat Finn and I continue our off-the-cuff exploration of the significance of fine jewelry, including a pretty sweet story about Pat's late friend, the legendary Chris Farley, and his love of gift-giving. We get a little sentimental, but it's cool, because that's one of the unexpected powers of jewelry: it can connect us to our past and the people we love the most.

Jewelry is more than just shiny trinkets, and we talk about how fine jewelry becomes physical representations of unforgettable moments and intense emotions.

Okay, yeah...it's a bit deep, but you won't need a tissue. No tears were shed in the recording of this episode. This isn't about sad stories. It's a more of a quick reality check about why jewelry is, in fact, a necessity in our lives.

Grab a drink, sit back, and decide if you agree with us.

Here is Pat's IMDB link: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0278156/ His company is Improv+Ability: https://www.improv-ability.com/ Reach out to him via email if you have questions: [email protected]

If you want to talk with me personally you can email me at [email protected]. I'm happy to personally help you find the right jewelry for your special occasion, or put you in touch with a jewelry pro that's closer to home.

Or, you can shop online at my jewelry store right here: https://www.koehnjewelry.com/

Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.

Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987

This episode was originally published in May, 2023

Pat Finn is a well-known actor, comedian, and writer with over 25 years of experience in the entertainment industry. He's appeared in numerous TV shows and movies, including The Middle, Seinfeld, "It's Complicated," and the "I Am Chris Farley" documentary. He has an almost endless list of professional accomplishments, and I wanted him on the show because he's also a husband, father, and regular guy who really seems to "get" the whole jewelry thing.

Here is Pat's IMDB link: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0278156/

We're going to discuss his own experience of buying an engagement ring, how he was clueless about the whole process, and how sometimes you just have to trust the experts. He called me a "Sherpa," in this episode, and you know what? I kinda liked it.

His company is Improv+Ability: https://www.improv-ability.com/ Reach out to him via email if you have questions: [email protected]

If you want to talk with me personally you can email me at [email protected]. I'm happy to personally help you find the right jewelry for your special occasion, or put you in touch with a jewelry pro that's closer to home.

Or, you can shop online at my jewelry store right here: https://www.koehnjewelry.com/

Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.

Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987

This episode was originally published in May, 2023.

Bourbon continues to be a "go to" for guys who want to move away from cheap beer and fruity drinks, and I support it. It's a crazy big world of choices that are mind boggling, even to seasoned bourbon hunters.

My guest today is definitely a guy who can help us traverse the multi-leveled landscape of the bourbon world. Derek works in the heart of Bourbon Country at one of the premier distilleries on the Bourbon Trails of Kentucky.

He'll explain the difference between whiskey and bourbon, highlighting that bourbon must adhere to specific laws, including being at least 51% corn and made in America.

We'll also touch on the rise in popularity of bourbon in recent years. He'll give us a run down of the ingredients of bourbon, including corn, rye or wheat, and malted barley, and explain how the barrel contributes to the flavor and complexity of bourbon.

You'll learn about the timeline for aging bourbon, and how he believes that between eight and 12 years is the magic number for optimal flavor.

Just like diamonds, he and I agree that personal preference plays a significant role as to which bourbon is right for you. And of course there is the thrill of collecting bourbons and sharing a pour or two with your friends. (He'll even give a quick tutorial on the correct way to sip it. Freakin' great!)

Ultimately, according to Derek, there is no wrong way to drink a worthy bourbon. Cheers!

If you need expert advice about something you don't know much about, and need a little guidance, send me an email at [email protected] and I'll do my best to cover it in an upcoming show.

If you're "that guy," (and of course you can be a woman) that people should hear from because you know your sh*t about a certain subject, please reach out to me, and let's talk about how we can work together.

Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.

Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987

This is an auspicious moment because in this episode, for the first time, I'm going to address "The Ladies."

Specifically, I'm going to talk about what you, as a woman, should NOT do when you and your fella go to look for his wedding ring.

When it's time to pick out his wedding ring, he just might for your opinion. (Most likely he will!) And you should help him out by giving him one. (Or 2 or 3. This shouldn't be a problem for most of the women I know. Ha!)

Picture this: A cute couple decides it's time to pick out his wedding band and so they're going to go visit their favorite independent jewelry store. (Always go to an independent jewelry store.)

What's going to happen is he's going to start trying on rings to see how they look. Simple and easy. Maybe.

It's normally awkward for him because this is probably the first time in his whole life that he's going to pick out a piece of jewelry for himself, so this is completely foreign to him, and he's in the uncharted waters of the jewelry world yet again. (Not a guy's favorite place to be.)

Most men are comfortable talking about cars, a boat, golf clubs, or even a watch for that matter, but the ring he's supposed to wear for the rest of his life? Not so much...

He's going to need a little help and at some point he might turn to you and ask, "What do you think of this one?"

Now ladies, this is what you should NOT do or say at that point: "I don't know, you have to wear it."

That is a terrible answer because the person he trusts the most, you, leaves him hanging, and it's embarrassing and offers zero help or direction.

When he asks that question it's most likely because he found a ring style he likes and he's looking for your approval.

So help him out, and have an opinion…and share it.

If you don't have an opinion, it means you're not paying attention, or maybe you actually don't care…but you know what? Care. Even if it's just for a little while.

It's not a big ask, and I can tell you he'll appreciate it further on up the road.

Guys are easy. We ask because we want to know what you think, and most times we're looking for a verbal nod that, "Yes, I like what you picked out," and even, "I don't like it, how about that one?" (If that happens you can start to hone in on a ring that you both like and you can move forward with rest of the infinite plans you need to check off the list for your wedding day.)

Last tip: Your guy (or girl) wants your opinion, but he/she wants to have a say as well. Be open to that…and if he's really digging a certain ring style, go with it, because you know what? Your "one-and-only" wants to like their wedding ring too.

If you'd like help finding a jeweler closer to home, email me at [email protected] and I'll do my best to put you in touch with some of the best jewelers on earth.

Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.

Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987

Customer involvement in designing jewelry is a growing trend in the jewelry business. Independent jewelry stores offer a range of options, from changing metals and gemstones to adding unique touches. However, there's a crucial balance between personalization and potentially compromising the integrity of the original design when people who don't know what they're doing want to get their hands dirty and help create a personal version of something they like.

While we'll focus mainly on engagement rings, these principles apply to all custom jewelry projects. It's important to recognize that jewelry design is a nuanced craft that demands expertise. Just because you excel in one area doesn't automatically translate to designing jewelry.

It's tempting to assume that with countless designs available, any choice will suffice. However, not all designs are created equal. Some may not stand the test of time or wear well. Fine jewelry is an investment, and it's essential to ensure it endures both in style and quality.

Jewelry designers dedicate their careers to mastering their craft. They're experts in working with precious materials to create pieces that are both visually stunning and durable. While you can collaborate with designers and brands to customize existing designs, there's a line that, when crossed, risks compromising the final product.

This phenomenon isn't unique to jewelry; professionals in various fields encounter similar challenges. As a client, it's exciting to contribute to the design process, but it's crucial to know when to defer to the experts. Remember, being the boss means trusting your team to do what they do best.

If you're considering customizing a piece, be mindful of expert advice. When they gently advise against a certain change, it's probably a good idea to listen to them. Their experience will guide you towards a design that stands the test of time, and will be cherished for a lifetime. While your ideas hold value, sometimes it's best to let seasoned professionals make the final call.

If you'd like help finding a jeweler closer to home, email me at [email protected] and I'll do my best to put you in touch with some of the best jewelers on earth.

Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.

Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987

Note: This episode was originally published in September, 2023.