Served Up

Master Sommelier Serafin Alvarado’s journey into the worlds of hospitality and wine took him from New York City, to Puerto Rico, and back to the US in Chicago working with the late, great Chef Charlie Trotter. Serafin's story serves as a not-unfamiliar roadmap for many of the most successful professionals in the hospitality sphere, as it weaves through many different geographies and disciplines including music, chemistry, the hotel business, and more on the road to joining one of the elite wine professional associations in the world, and showcases his inspirational lifelong love of learning and pursuit of growth

The daughter of a tavern owner in New York City, Laura Cullen fell in love with hospitality early on. Since then, Laura has lived in nearly every corner of the United States, and has spent her impressive career working in most every facet of the beverage alcohol industry. Laura's story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the enduring power of the beverage community to uplift and inspire

Chief Executive Officer Billy Paretti shares CleanCo's mission to redefine non-alcoholic spirits. Billy shares how CleanCo is making these dynamic, exciting new spirits essential to every cocktail bar, both in restaurants & taverns around the world as well as at home

Simon Ford is a spirited visionary. He shares his journey of a career in the beverage world, the story of the creation and building of Ford's Gin, and the impact he has made in the industry

Kerstin Recker and Helen Grimshaw, Co-Founders of Peli Health, share their insights on the importance of spotlighting women's health and the needed resources to speicifically support pelvic health needs for everyone

Nicolette Teo has an insider's perspective to the world of beverage that is truly second to none. She has a unique talent for bringing her team of judges' personalities to life in everything she does. Join us as we discover the dynamic world of spirit competitions, discuss the art of tasting, and learn how Nicolette's vibrant approach adds an extra layer of magic to the beverage industry

Tracie Franklin, a multi-talented performer turned spirits expert, takes us on a journey through her fascinating past and her studies in distillation. She has an infectious passion for the craft of creating high quality spirits. Spirited Tracie brings a touch of showbiz to her expertise in the world of distilled beverages

Kevin Finch's journey takes us from the church pulpit to a different kind of ministry as he stepped away from preaching to start a non-profit organization around his love of food, and for the amazing people who work in the service industry. Big Table is dedicated to supporting hospitality workers in crisis. Kevin's commitment to making a difference and doing truly impactful work is uplifting. He has a life-changing vocation to help others in need.

Daniel Singer shares his amazing story starting from his humble beginnings, to revealing how his love for the beverage industry and relentless determination propelled him to success. Despite his early struggles with dyslexia, he shares how he turns his struggles into his superpower, and builds his company Filthy Foods with drive, integrity, and the strength and love of his family

Whitney Gates is breaking down barriers and shattering ceilings in the beverage industry, making space for extraordinary cocktail wines and speaking about the need for diversity in this industry. She shares her inspiring story, the challenges she has overcome, a behind-the-scenes look from her appearance on hit TV show "Shark Tank", and the vital importance of diversity and inclusion in the world of wine. Whitney is making her mark in the world one delicious bottle at at time!