Cocktails With Friends

S3 E11 Après All Day|TailGate Brewery

In this episode of Après All Day, Bob Cutler and Rich Stoner crack open a TailGate Orange Wheat and welcome Liz Tarry, sales and marketing director for TailGate Brewery to talk about the brewery's gold-medal beers, its Lager Project craftsmanship, Nashville Sweet Tea, and founder Wes Keegan's people-first philosophy—all proof that good beer and good company can build real community in the heart of Tennessee.

Key Topics

Craftsmanship and Innovation

TailGate's lineup blends creativity and precision, from citrusy Orange Wheat to its high-end Lager Project. Each beer reflects the brewery's obsession with quality and balance over hype and shortcuts.

Diversifying the Taproom Experience

Beyond beer, TailGate has expanded into sweet tea, seltzers, and cold brew—meeting shifting consumer tastes while keeping its Southern roots. The taprooms serve as community hubs where families, students, and locals gather.

Independent Ownership and Company Culture

Founder Wes Keegan's refusal to take outside investors lets TailGate focus on people over profit. His decision to fully cover employee healthcare and maintain a supportive, creative workplace sets a rare standard in the brewing industry.

(4:20–4:32) TailGate's flagship Orange Wheat wins Gold at the U.S. Open Beer Championship and remains the brewery's best-seller.

(5:37–6:03) The team brews 300 unique beers each year, consistently ranking among the top ten U.S. breweries for variety.

(7:28–9:22) Launch of the Lager Project—a premium, Munich-style Helles brewed with imported ingredients and poured via custom Lucre handles at partner bars.

(16:40–18:39) Expansion beyond beer with Nashville Sweet Tea Co., THC seltzers, and cold brew coffee, born from pandemic-era innovation.

(20:21–21:46) Founder Wes Keegan's leadership—independent, no outside investors, paying 100% of employee healthcare, and fostering a top-ranked workplace culture.

S3 E10 The Black Bear Hockey Episode

Bob Cutler and University of Maine Men's Hockey Coach Ben Barr take a seat at Novio's Table Eleven during Monday Night Dinner Service to talk oysters, Sazeracs, and the revival of Black Bear Hockey—digging into culture, community, and how Maine hockey's identity continues to build around integrity, effort, and pride on and off the ice.

Key Topics

Culture as the Core of Recruitment

Barr emphasizes that winning programs are built from within—when players love where they are, word spreads faster than any recruiter can travel. Team culture now drives success more than individual stats or hype.

Balancing Tradition with Modernization

Maine hockey's renovated facilities and renewed national presence show that the program honors its legendary roots while adapting to new realities in college athletics, from NIL deals to the transfer portal.

Hockey, Family, and Community in Maine

Barr speaks about raising a young family in Brewer, the warmth of Maine's people, and the unique bond between the program and the state—where hockey is more than a sport; it's a shared identity.

(0:26–3:00) Coach Barr joins Bob live at Novio's Bistro, reflecting on Maine's hockey resurgence and the pride of returning to national prominence.

(10:14–14:00) Bob and Ben discuss Maine's new arena, Alfond Foundation support, and how modern facilities elevate recruiting and player experience.

(20:12–25:00) Barr's Recruiting Philosophy emphasises character and culture, which now matter more than traditional scouting—and players who love the program become its best ambassadors.

(40:10–46:30) NIL and transfer portals are reshaping college sports but Maine's advantage lies in hockey's smaller, tighter-knit competitive world.

(55:00–1:03:00) Barr opens up about family life in Brewer, Maine's fan culture, and the community's deep connection to the Black Bear identity.

S3 E9 The Wine Pair Episode

Bob Cutler switches from cocktails to corks, pouring a glass of Italian vino and welcoming Joe and Carmela, co-hosts of The Wine Pair Podcast. Known for their accessible style, the pair share how their show was born during the pandemic as a creative outlet and a way to explore wine together. The trio talk about interviewing winemakers, connecting with listeners, and building a community that avoids the snobbery too often tied to wine culture.

Key Topics

Making Wine Accessible

Joe and Carmela break down barriers to wine appreciation by setting a friendly price cap and speaking in plain language. Like Bob, their humor and candor make wine less intimidating for everyday drinkers.

Honest Reviews and Ratings

By buying their own bottles and using a no-nonsense scale, the pair keep their opinions genuine—offering listeners a trusted shortcut in a crowded wine market.

Wine as Community and Journey

From winemaker interviews to bucket-list vineyard travels, they highlight wine as both a cultural exploration and a way to connect people across geography and generations.

(0:29–1:17) Bob meets Joe and Carmela, co-hosts of The Wine Pair Podcast, who built their show during the pandemic as a creative project and outlet.

(5:14–5:56) Their rule: review wines under $25, buying every bottle themselves to keep reviews honest and accessible.

(11:07–11:48) Bob learns Joe and Carmela refuse free bottles—preferring unbiased takes and using a clear, simple rating system from "buy it" to "pour it down the sink."

(14:15–15:40) Finding good wine means trusting importers, regions, and varietals instead of just fancy labels or scores.

(18:01–19:21)The trio share fan-favorite wines, dream trips to Burgundy and New Zealand, and how unscripted banter keeps their chemistry fresh.

S3 E8 Novio's Radio | Prescribe Me Something Good

Broadcasting remotely *cough cough cough* after catching the school-season bug, Bob Cutler dials into the George Hale Ric Tyler Show on VOM and reflects on the history of "medicinal whiskey" before sharing hot toddy recipes, rum-and-maple variations, and cider or mulled wine twists—all meant to soothe when you're feeling sick—just as so many are today.

Key Topics

The History of Medicinal Spirits

Prohibition-era "prescriptions" of whiskey inspired the idea of cocktails as cures, tying cultural history to today's comforting hot drinks.

Comfort Drinks That Heal

From hot toddies to cider and mulled wine, warm cocktails become seasonal remedies, balancing flavor with soothing effects.

Wellness Meets Moderation

Bob stresses hydration, honey, citrus, and responsible drinking—showing that self-care can be

equal parts ritual and restraint.

Episode Index

(2:16–4:41) Hot toddy basics: bourbon, lemon, honey, and hot water—a classic "cure" that warms and soothes.

(4:41–5:45) Variations with brandy, dark rum, or chamomile tea for deeper, relaxing flavors.

(7:39–9:07) A rum-maple-cinnamon toddy—using Maine maple syrup and stirring with a cinnamon stick for spice and aroma.

(9:44–10:23) Mulled wine, hot cider with rum or whiskey, and even ancho chile liqueur for sinus relief.

(11:20–15:40) Final advice: moderation, hydration, add citrus or honey, and don't ignore medical

cautions when mixing with prescriptions.

S3 E7 3 Days In Louisville|Elizabeth Sutherland

Host Bob Cutler sits down with Elizabeth Sutherland as she plans a three-day Louisville getaway to celebrate her anniversary—aiming to balance bourbon, great food, arts, and a little non-spirits culture. A live call with Michter's JP McCartan adds a premium twist—"bottle your own" barrel-proof bourbon (a Kentucky-only keepsake) and a short list of top cocktail bars and whiskey libraries.

Key Topics

Cadence beats conquest. Treat Louisville like a tasting marathon, not a sprint: anchor one distillery per half-day, eat before you pour, and hydrate between stops. Rotate flavor profiles so your palate isn't blown out, and plug in one culture block (Ali Center, Churchill Downs, Slugger) every afternoon to reset your senses before the evening lineup.

Make a keepsake moment. Pick a single "only-here" highlight—like a bottle-your-own barrel-proof experience or a limited single-barrel pick—and plan the day around it. Snap a photo, note the proof/warehouse/barrel, and grab a matching bar pour later; that bottle becomes the weekend's signature souvenir and an easy on-air story beat when you're back home.

Reset the flavor dial. Book one non-bourbon dinner (e.g., chef's tasting with a wine pairing) and one cocktail bar with impeccable ice and technique to give your taste buds contrast. Aim for a lighter, citrus-forward aperitif before dinner and a stirred nightcap after; you'll finish energized instead of overwhelmed, and the trip will feel curated—not chaotic.

(5:17) Base yourself on Whiskey Row at Hotel Distil; consider the art-filled 21C Museum Hotel and its brunch spot Proof on Main.

(12:00) Pace tastings to avoid palate fatigue; start simple with the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience.

(13:30) Rabbit Hole Distillery impresses with a modern space and its standout barrel-aged gin.

(17:01) Michter's Fort Nelson delivers small-batch tours, a top cocktail bar, and the unique "bottle your own" barrel-proof bourbon.

(17:16) Balance bourbon with non-spirits highlights: dinner at 610 Magnolia or Mayan Café, and cultural stops like the Muhammad Ali Center, Kentucky Derby Museum, Slugger Museum, and the Frazier.

S3 E6 Après All Day | Vail's Oktoberfest

This Après All Day episode takes listeners straight into the heart of Vail's 50th (or technically 55th) Oktoberfest celebration. Hosts Bob Cutler and Rich Stoner welcome special events manager Jeremy Gross to describe how the celebration connects the town's Bavarian-inspired heritage to modern-day mountain culture. Then event producer Brian Nolan pulls back the curtain on what it takes to stage the event—42,000 pints of Stiegl, refrigerated trucks, and teams hauling -- and sometimes bowling -- kegs across town.

Key Topics

Bavarian Tradition Meets Rocky Mountain Culture

Vail's Oktoberfest blends European heritage with Colorado mountain life, celebrating food, beer, and music while honoring the 10th Mountain Division veterans and Bavarian entrepreneurs who shaped the town.

The Scale and Logistics of Celebration

Behind the fun is serious planning: sourcing and moving 400 kegs of beer, designing commemorative Steins, and coordinating events for 55,000 visitors across two weekends.

A Year-Round Destination, Not Just Ski Season

Jeremy Gross highlights how Vail thrives in every season, with concerts, art festivals, and outdoor adventures ensuring Oktoberfest is just one of many reasons to visit.

(2:01) Mountain Mixer results: A.J. Anderson wins with a cocktail that evolves as its flavored ice melts.

(6:17) Jeremy Gross details Vail's Oktoberfest—two weekends of music, food, Stein contests, and Bavarian traditions.

(10:57) The festival's roots trace back to Vail's founding by 10th Mountain Division veterans and Bavarian immigrants.

(16:01) Brian Nolan reveals the logistics—400 kegs of Stiegl, refrigerated trucks, and hauling 42,000 pints across town.

(22:04) Keg bowling and live music (including Grammy-nominated Alex Meixner) headline the can't-miss festival attractions.

S3 E5 Schoodic Institute's Lisa Frazell

This episode takes listeners to Maine's Schoodic Peninsula, where host Bob Cutler sits down with Lisa Frazell to spotlight the work of the Schoodic Institute, a nonprofit scientific partner of Acadia National Park. Lisa explains that while many confuse the institute with schooner boats, its mission is rooted in environmental research, restoration, and education that helps sustain the park for future generations.

Key Topics

Science in Action for Acadia's Future The Schoodic Institute restores trails, summits, and marshes impacted by millions of visitors and climate shifts, experimenting with plants and methods that will endure for decades. Their work ensures that Acadia remains resilient in the face of environmental pressures.

Training the Next Generation of Conservationists Through internships, fellowships, and immersive programs, Schoodic gives students and young professionals critical on-the-ground experience. This prepares the next wave of scientists and educators to tackle global environmental challenges.

Community, Culture, and Climate Conversations From visitor engagement in Winter Harbor to public lectures on climate change, the Institute bridges science and community life. By connecting everyday people to research, they make conservation relevant and actionable for all.

(3:31) Schoodic Institute explained: a nonprofit partner to Acadia National Park, focused on research and science.

(5:31) Three pillars: restoration of summits/salt marshes, sustainable research like rockweed harvesting, and education for students and early-career scientists.

(10:04) Schoodic Education Adventure brings middle schoolers—sometimes seeing the ocean for the first time—into hands-on park science.

(14:03) The Institute employs about 25 staff year-round, swelling to 100 in summer, funded through federal grants, philanthropy, and contracts with Acadia.

(17:13) Public engagement: visitor center, lecture series, and programs on climate change, like the upcoming "Don't Fence Us In" forest panel.

S3 E4 Novio's Radio | Uncomfortable Vendor Comments

This episode of Cocktails with Friends takes a sharp turn from lighthearted mixology into deeply personal territory. Bob Cutler opens up about an anti-Semitic remark from a vendor rep, the lack of immediate accountability from the company, and the personal toll it's taken on him and his family, reminding listeners that bigotry in any form demands serious response and reflection.

Key Topics

The Personal Impact of Prejudice

Bob's story illustrates how discrimination isn't just offensive—it cuts into personal identity, family pride, and professional trust. His choice to abstain from drinking underscores the seriousness of the emotional weight he carried.

Corporate Responsibility and Accountability

The episode raises tough questions about how businesses respond to discrimination. A simple rep reassignment without visible consequences feels inadequate, highlighting the gap between apologies and real accountability.

Owning Identity in Public and Business Life

Bob speaks openly about being Jewish, reflecting on when and how he highlights that identity in his business branding. The episode underscores the ongoing challenge of embracing heritage while navigating a society where prejudice can still surface.

(2:10) Bob explains why he avoids drinking when angry—alcohol amplifies moods, and this situation has remained top-of-mind for two weeks.

(3:39) The conflict escalated when a vendor accused his wife Annie of dishonesty and then made an anti-Semitic remark toward Bob.

(5:34) Bob shares his pride in being Jewish, even if not always practicing, and his shock at hearing "don't use the Jew card on me."

(6:53) He points out how anti-Semitism often isn't taken as seriously as racism or homophobia, with fewer immediate repercussions.

(15:01) After meeting with Pine State's CEO, Bob gets an apology and a new rep but no clear policy answers, leaving him questioning accountability.

S3 E3 Après All Day | Mountain Mixer

In this episode of Après All Day, Bob and Rich head to Park City—at least in spirit—for the inaugural Mountain Mixer cocktail contest. The event brings together the top ten cocktails from a month-long, undercover judging process, culminating in a high-energy showdown at Deer Valley's Silver Lake Lodge on August 21. Bob and Rich welcome Executive Director Ginger Wicks of the Park City Area Restaurant Association, plus, two finalists - Leeham Bridgham from High West Distillery and Megs Miller from The Brass Tag.

Key Topics

1. Transforming a Contest for Transparency

After last year's online cocktail contest was compromised by hacking, the Park City Area Restaurant Association reinvented the format. By bringing the Mountain Mixer live, with impartial, high-profile judges and a real-time audience vote, the event now offers credibility, excitement, and a dynamic, in-person experience that supports local bars and restaurants.

2. A Culinary Community that Works Together

Ginger Wicks emphasizes Park City's rare spirit of collaboration, where competing restaurants help one another by sharing staffing resources and promoting the collective dining scene. This cooperation strengthens the area's culinary reputation and helps both visitors and locals enjoy a richer variety of experiences year-round.

3. The Artistry and Performance of Mixology

In Mountain Mixer, taste is only half the battle—showmanship counts too. From the storytelling behind the drink to stage presence, bartenders must connect with both judges and audience. Finalists like Leeham and Megs illustrate how creativity, seasonal inspiration, and personal flair come together to create memorable cocktails and moments.

(3:32) Mountain Mixer format: Ten finalists face expert judges and live audience scoring in a performance-driven cocktail showdown.

(7:54) Park City's collaborative culinary community: Restaurants work together, even sharing staff to keep the scene strong.

(9:16) Live finale details: Music, food, and a stage where mixologists present their cocktails to Michelin-star and James Beard-level judges.

(17:52) Seasonal creativity: Competitors tailor cocktails to seasonality, from dark, spirit-forward drinks to light, refreshing sours.

(26:10) Personal style: Leeham and Meggs share their post-shift favorites, behind-the-scenes process, and approach to showmanship.

S3 E2 Dr. Michael Ross

This episode of Cocktails with Friends dives deep into modern fatherhood with Dr. Michael Ross, a pediatrician and longtime friend of host Bob Cutler. The two explore the evolving role of dads, not as know-it-alls, but as coaches learning alongside their kids. From navigating healthcare and screen time to managing interests and emotions, Bob and Mike reflect on lessons they've learned and how they're still figuring it out—sometimes over whiskey.

Key Topics

1. Coaching vs. Commanding in Parenting

Dr. Mike Ross frames parenting as a form of coaching—rooted not in authority, but in experience, patience, and shared discovery. Rather than issuing commands, he emphasizes offering guidance, listening, and allowing children to make choices and mistakes. This approach fosters trust, resilience, and emotional maturity, helping kids become more independent and self-aware over time.

The conversation highlights how important it is for parents to let kids follow their own paths—even when those paths differ dramatically from parental passions. Dr. Ross shares how one of his children embraced theater while the other became a competitive bodybuilder, pushing him to recognize and celebrate individuality. Supporting kids as they explore different identities helps them feel seen, accepted, and empowered to pursue their own dreams.

Bob and Mike discuss the importance of letting kids follow through on commitments—even when they're struggling or disinterested. Whether it's seeing a sports season through to the end or dusting off after a fall, children build confidence and resilience by learning that setbacks are part of growth. Rather than rushing to fix things, parents can teach grit by standing back and supporting their kids' efforts to recover and try again.

(2:43) Parenting as coaching: Dr. Ross explains that parenting isn't about control, it's about experience-based guidance and mutual learning.

(5:06) Supporting individual interests: Mike discusses how his sons' very different passions—music vs. bodybuilding—shaped his understanding of support without pressure.

(10:03) Weather and screen time: The two reflect on the challenge of keeping kids engaged outdoors in Maine's long winters while balancing healthy screen use.

(20:14) Handling injuries: Mike emphasizes the importance of modeling calm behavior when children get hurt, allowing them to build resilience.

(23:21) Ask for help: Bob closes with a reminder that fathers should lean on their community and fellow dads for guidance, resources, and encouragement.