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!

This time last year I had the pleasure of sharing laughs and amazing conversation with Shannon Evans, Brand Ambassador for St-Germain. Topics range from bar culture globally, to hosting some of the coolest dinner parties in Jamaica. Shannon also shares some highly recommended local restaurants and bars. Enjoy!

Host: Courtney Marshall 
Special Guest: Shannon Evans

Instagram: @spiritandsoulatl @holy.sip

A conversation with three local bar managers about restaurant operations, tipping culture, guest complaints, management styles, and so much more. This episode was a live audience recording at Independent Distilling Co. in Decatur, GA. 

Host: Courtney Marshall 
Production: Evol Films
Special Guest: Sherita Kennedy, Camaran Burke, and Quentin Tanner 

Instagram: @spiritandsoulpodcast

J. Davil Haralson aka Deevo shares his journey of developing Food and Lifestyle TV. FLTV is a black-owned and operated network that showcases talented chefs, lifestyle creators, and culinary entertainment. This was such a motivational conversation. I hope it inspires you just as much as it inspired me.

Host: Courtney Marshall 
Special Guest: J. Davil Haralson 
Instagram: @spiritandsoulpodcast @foodlifestyletv
Website: foodandlifestyle.com

Eric Nathan, Beverage Director of The Gathering Spot shares his experience as a bartender/mixologist and his unique approach to storytelling and creativity. We delve into the Atlanta bar and nightlife culture and discuss the ways in which Eric has found inspiration and innovation in his work.

Eric also talks about his upcoming project and recounts some of his experiences serving some of your favorite celebrities and stars.

Host: Courtney Marshall 
Special Guest: Eric Nathan 
Instagram: @spiritandsoulpodcast @yourdrunkenknight

In this episode, I have the pleasure of hosting Josh and Rob from Sincère Fare, who are known for their innovative culinary experiences in Atlanta. We delve into the intersection of being a creative and an entrepreneur, and how this impacts their target audience. We also explore best practices for successful collaborations with other artists and brands.

Host: Courtney Marshall 
Special Guests: Josh Swinney and Robert Thornton Jr. of Sincère Fare
Instagram: @spiritandsoulpodcast 

What does it mean to drink responsibly? In this episode, I am joined with my attorney friend and one of my favorite after-hour bartenders.  We share our experiences and offer some really great advice and suggestions. We discuss severals topics like, how to communicate with intoxicated individuals, how to avoid a DUI, how to avoid a hangover, how to get over a hangover, and so much!

Host: Courtney Marshall
Guests: Karen Lee and Daquita Cooper
Instagram: @spiritandsoulpodcast