Still Talk'n Uncut Podcast

Jon Umstead is an American business executive, consultant, author, and educator with over 30 years of leadership experience spanning private sector operations, IT services, and executive leadership. self taught moonshiner. check out Against the Grain on amazon or www/champaignshine.com

Mary Kutter is an American country music singer and songwriter originally from Springfield, Kentucky. Known for her raw, gritty, and deeply honest storytelling, her music fuses classic country roots with rock influences.

Key Accomplishments & Career Shifts

• Prolific Songwriter: Before stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist, Kutter built a major reputation behind the scenes in Nashville. She co-wrote several massive hits for major country artists, including Bailey Zimmerman’s "Never Leave" and "These Nights," as well as Nate Smith’s "Wreckage" and "Sleep". Her work as a songwriter has also been featured in Netflix movies, television shows, and national commercials.
• Viral Solo Success: She successfully transitioned to a solo career after sharing an unfinished clip of her music on TikTok. Her breakout track, "Devil's Money"—a song inspired by the true story of her bootlegger great-grandfather—went viral, racking up over 30 million views.
• Record Deal & Releases: Her relentless work ethic and songwriting success caught the attention of major labels. She is signed to a publishing deal with Reservoir Media and officially signed a major record deal with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. Her singles include "Devil's Money," "The Devil Wore a Lab Coat," and her 2026 release, "Bed of Roses".

The distiller you are looking for is Alan Bishop (often preferring the title "Head Alchemist").

A highly respected and colorful figure in the craft spirits industry, Bishop is renowned for his deep knowledge of pre-prohibition style distilling, historical spirits (like authentic absinthe), and his roots in southern Indiana's illicit distilling heritage.

Career & Old Homestead Connection

• Spirits of French Lick: Before his time at Old Homestead, Bishop spent eight highly acclaimed years as the Head Alchemist at Spirits of French Lick in southern Indiana, where he built a major reputation for innovative whiskeys and brandies.
• Old Homestead Distilling Co.: In April 2024, Bishop left French Lick to become the Head Distiller and partner at the newly unveiled Old Homestead Distilling Co. in Birdseye, Indiana (located in the Patoka Lake / "Alcohol Acres" area).
• The "Alchemist" Style: At Old Homestead, he leaned heavily into historical and terroir-focused spirits. He gained particular attention there for creating "Sunshine Spirits"—a unique, moonshine-style spirit crafted from malted and roasted sunflower seeds rather than standard grains.
• Current Ventures: True to his restless and independent spirit, Bishop eventually parted ways with the daily operations at Old Homestead to continue contract distilling, consulting, and launching independent spirit lines

The Annual Tin-Man Benefit Run, is a community charity motorcycle event held in and around the Mechanicsburg area. Based on information available from the page and related community references, the event's purpose is to raise money for A Heart for a Child, a nonprofit that assists children and families dealing with serious medical and heart-related challenges.

Ohio Shine Co. is a locally owned Ohio craft distillery known for producing small-batch moonshine and vodka that blend traditional Appalachian distilling heritage with modern craftsmanship. Based in Mansfield, the company specializes in smooth, approachable spirits, including classic corn moonshine and a variety of flavored offerings such as apple pie, peach, blackberry, and toasted coconut. Ohio Shine Co. emphasizes quality ingredients, local pride, and hands-on production, creating spirits that appeal to both casual drinkers and enthusiasts. With a focus on authenticity, community, and innovation, the distillery has built a reputation for delivering flavorful, Ohio-made products that celebrate the state's rich distilling traditions.

Black Diamond Brewery & Distillery - Waverly, a restaurant, bar, and tasting venue that showcases the spirits and beers produced by the company's main distillery operation in Nelsonville. It is part of the broader Black Diamond brand, which focuses on celebrating Appalachian Ohio's coal-mining, railroad, and industrial heritage through craft bourbon, whiskey, moonshine, rum, beer, and food.

The Moonshine Co., it's an apparel brand inspired by distilling, moonshine culture, and Appalachian heritage rather than a distillery itself. The company was founded by people with distilling backgrounds and creates clothing and accessories aimed at distillers, moonshine enthusiasts, whiskey fans, and people who appreciate traditional Appalachian craftsmanship.

Clara Robbins Ward (frequently referred to professionally as Clara Robbins) has a background that bridges heavy technical engineering with the creative, sensory-driven craft of spirits. She has become a leading figure in the "New Guard" of American distilling, specifically within the Florida craft scene.

The "Master Distiller" Connection

Reggie competed in (and won) a high-stakes competition on the show. His expertise isn't just for TV; he’s a respected figure in the craft distilling community, known for:

Sour Mash Mastery: He is a proponent of the traditional sour mash process, which uses the "backset" (spent mash from a previous run) to ensure consistency and pH balance in the next batch.

Heritage Techniques: Reggie often emphasizes old-school, "backwoods" methods that prioritize flavor profile over mass production.

Ya'll join us as we listen to the last and final Master Distiller winner Daniel Stevens listen to him talk about running his favorite grain JIMMY RED!!!!