Meet Jennifer WonJoo Yim and Joe Arakawa, the talented creators behind the Korean-inspired cocktail pop-up Spirit & Seoul, based out of Las Vegas, NV. My introduction to their pop-up was originally in New York earlier this year at the Bar Convent Brooklyn. I was fascinated by their story and their distinctive approach to cocktails, rich in culture and experimental.

When I discovered they’d be at Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans, I knew it was the perfect chance to reconnect—this time, for a deeper conversation about their craft and their journey.

Special Guest:
Jennifer WonJoo Yim @nichebycoqtale
Joe Arakawa @thatguyjoe808
@spirit.n.seoul

Host:
Courtney Marshall @spiritandsoulpodcast

Videographer:
Anthony Whiting  ⁨@envision.artistry⁩  

Spirited Sistas is a pop-up cocktail experience led by two powerhouse Black female bartenders from Atlanta: Kia Palmer (@theonomatokia) and Melanie Evans (@mel_spirits). Known for crafting bold, delicious, and daring drinks, their mission is to build a global community of Black women in bartending — and they’re definitely shaking things up.

Pull up a seat for this unfiltered convo about their grind, their glow, and the big moves they’re making next.

Host: Courtney Marshall (@spiritandsoulpodcast)
Videography: Envision Artistry (@envision.artistry)

Spirited Sistas is a pop-up cocktail experience led by two powerhouse Black female bartenders from Atlanta: Kia Palmer (@theonomatokia) and Melanie Evans (@mel_spirits). Known for crafting bold, delicious, and daring drinks, their mission is to build a global community of Black women in bartending — and they’re definitely shaking things up.

Pull up a seat for this unfiltered convo about their grind, their glow, and the big moves they’re making next.

Host: Courtney Marshall (@spiritandsoulpodcast)
Videography: Envision Artistry (@envision.artistry)

Curious about the growing trend of THC-infused beverages in the non-alcoholic space? 🍹💨 Join me as I dive into this emerging category with cannabis expert Rachel Burkons! From her work with Feast & Flower and Smoke Sip Savor to her efforts in integrating cannabis into hospitality, Rachel is here to share her expertise on how these drinks are transforming the industry.

This episode was shot in New Orleans at the Tales of the Cocktail Conference 2024.

Host: Courtney Marshall @spiritandsoulatl
Special Guests: Rachel Burkons @smokesipsavor
Director of Photography: Anthony Whiting @envision.artistry

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring story of A Sip of Paradise Garden, a unique community garden created by a bartender, for bartenders. Founded by Keyatta Mincey Parker, this garden is more than just a green space—it's a vibrant hub for building community, promoting sustainability, and wellness programming. Join us as we explore how Keyatta's vision has created a place where bartenders can connect with nature, support one another, and foster a greater sense of purpose. Don’t miss this powerful conversation!

This episode was shot in New Orleans at the Tales of the Cocktail Conference.

Host: Courtney Marshall @spiritandsoulpodcast
Guest: Keyatta Mincey Parker @asipofparadisegarden
Director of Photography: Anthon Whiting @envision.artistry

A conversation with a cast of expert bartenders on the topic of bar regulars. We discuss the importance of bar regulars and building community. We also share how to build regulars, unspoken rules and hilarious anecdotes. Enjoy!

This episode was a live audience recording at Mojave Restaurant in Sandy Springs, GA. 

Host: Courtney Marshall @spiritandsoulpodcast
Production: Evol Films @evolfilmz
Special Guests: 
Christopher Ford aka Grumpy  Lazy Betty @misterford
Jasmin Rose - The Drink Witch @thedrinkwitch 
Austin McEwen - Vesper  @austin_mcewen

Columnist, Christine Sismondo and I delve into the complicated history of rum, exploring its deep ties to colonialism, slavery, and exploitation. Our discussion not only examines the dark past of this beloved spirit but also looks at how the rum industry is grappling with its legacy today and moving toward a more responsible future. 

This episode was recorded at the Tales of the Cocktail Conference in New Orleans.  Sismondo's  article "Facing Rum’s Problematic Past Is Allowing Producers to Embrace the Spirit’s Future" was a finalist for Best Cocktail & Spirits Writing. 


Host: Courtney Marshall @spiritandsoulpodcast
Special Guests: Christine Sismondo @mondosismondo
Director of Photography: Anthony Whiting @envision.artistry

Help me congratulate Kapri Robinson for earning the title of Best U.S. Bartender of the Year! 

This episode was shot just a few hours before the Tales of the Cocktail Spirit Awards in New Orleans. We talked about Chocolate City's Best, the largest cocktail competition for Black and Brown bartenders, and the importance of spirit and bar education. We also touched on the growing trend of non-alcoholic beverages.

Kapri shared how she's balancing her career, multiple projects, and self-care—crucial aspects as she continues to shift culture, make history, and shine bright. 

Enjoy!

Chef Mark Phillips of Southern Temptation was my first chef on the show. In this episode, we discuss the connection between art and food, the evolution of the culinary cocktail, and his new line of olive oils, Southern Pressed.

Host: Courtney Marshall @spiritandsoulpodcast
Special Guest: Chef Mark Phillips @chefsoutherntemp

Learn the process of distilling spirits in Georgia with Seth Watson of Distillery of Modern Art. Topics ranged from creating multiple revenue streams, scalability, and raising capital. Seth was an amazing guest. Our conversation was enlightening, transparent and packed with lots energy. You're in for a treat!