It’s hard when the mic turns on me—I’m wired to ask the questions. But today I’m in the hot seat for a special crossover: Industry Night × When You Just Want a Glass of Wine with Zena Polin & Renee Gentry. We’re recording on Historic 23rd Street at Beauty Champagne & Sugar Boutique, presented by the National Landing BID (cheers to a neighborhood that spans Crystal City, Pentagon City, and Potomac Yard and keeps raising the dining bar —> think Water Park vibes, new hits like Bar Colline, Bar Chinois on Crystal Drive, NiHao, Taqueria Xochi, Surreal, plus stalwarts like Beauty).

We’re toasting with Barboursville—a Fiano and a Nebbiolo—and swapping wine “a-ha” moments, DMV dining stories, and a few confessions. I learn more about Zena & Renee’s journeys, they pry out mine. Glasses up & let’s go.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction
00:44 - "Live Episode from National Landing"
09:58 - Growing Up Around Bars
15:47 - "Wine: Bringing People Together"
20:27 - Versatile Dining Preferences
26:25 - "Discovering Willamette's Chardonnay Delight"
28:20 - "Wine Trip & Family Memories"
33:21 - Engaged Wine Conversation Dynamics
38:47 - "From Cooking Classes to Online List"
46:43 - "Unexpected Wine Encounters"
48:28 - Customer Service and Flexibility
53:41 - Dining Conversations
58:52 - "Wine Club with Stories"
01:05:18 - "Drag Brunch and Chefs Event"
01:09:19 - "Protect and Support Our Communities"
01:16:56 - "Start with a Glass"
01:23:37 - Podcast Highlights & Event Info
01:24:32 - Outro

Quotes:

“Making a living from your passion is the dream—every day you wake up knowing you’re exactly where you belong.”- Nycci Nellis

“Wine shouldn’t be intimidating—it’s about bringing people together, sharing stories, and welcoming everyone into the club.”- Zena Polin

“Wine is the thread through our celebrations, stories, and connections—it brings us together wherever we are and whatever’s in our glass.”- Renee Gentry

“There’s an energy when a community transforms and grows—whether you’re exploring something new or rediscovering a familiar place, inspiration awaits right here.”- Madeline Long

Key Takeaways

Collaboration is Everything
National Landing is on the Rise
Wine Is for Everyone
Stories Make Sips Special
Say Yes to Adventure—Michelin Stars and Hidden Gems
Hospitality is Human
Advocate—and Celebrate!—Equality
Cheers to Everyday Joy
Know What You Love—But Stay Curious

Zena Polin
Instagram
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Renee Gentry
Instagram
Facebook
Website

Champagne & Sugar Boutique
Instagram
Website

National Landing BID
Instagram
Facebook
Website

Featuring Nycci Nellis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nyccinellis/
Website: https://www.thelistareyouonit.com/

Produced by Heartcast Media
http://www.heartcastmedia.com