On this episode of The Liquid Entrepreneur, we sit down with Mara Smith — former attorney, corporate strategist, and now the inspiring founder of Inspiro Tequila.

After stepping away from the workforce to raise her kids, Mara reentered the game with bold ambition: to create a clean, additive-free tequila brand that reflects and respects the thoughtful female consumer. With no prior experience in spirits, she immersed herself in the tequila world—researching, cold-calling experts, and even becoming CRT-certified—proving that passion and persistence can outperform pedigree.

In this honest and empowering conversation, Mara shares:

·         How she turned a personal need into a purpose-driven brand

·         Why she scrapped her first production run (and what that taught her about quality)

·         And how community, curiosity, and courage fueled her growth

Whether you’re a founder, investor, or just someone who loves a good story—this episode delivers.

#TheLiquidEntrepreneur #InspiroTequila #FemaleFounders #BeverageIndustry #Entrepreneurship #WomenInSpirits

Watch the video of this episode on YouTube, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE:
https://youtu.be/sUFpRIbPchM

 Best place to learn from founders, owners and entrepreneurs

▪️W: https://theliquidentrepreneur.co 

 
 The Liquid Entrepreneur on Social...

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/theliquidentrepreneur
▪️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquidentrepreneur
▪️Twitter: https://twitter.com/TLEntrepreneur 

 The Host...

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/iammonteb 

 The Guest...

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/beinspiredbymara/

The Product...

▪️W: https://inspirotequila.com/

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/inspirotequila/

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Join us for an inspiring conversation with Abisola Abidemi, the visionary founder of Abisola Whiskey! In this episode, we dive into her entrepreneurial journey, from developing a passion for whiskey in college to creating a brand that challenges industry norms. Abisola shares the highs and lows of starting her own whiskey brand, the lessons she’s learned, and the innovations that have shaped Abisola Whiskey into a product that celebrates smooth, young whiskey.

With her unique perspective on breaking barriers in the alcohol industry, Abisola sheds light on how she defied expectations, built a brand, and carved out space for women in the whiskey world. If you're an aspiring entrepreneur, alcohol enthusiast, or simply love a great success story, this episode is for you.

Get ready for real talk, behind-the-scenes insights, and valuable advice for anyone looking to make their mark in the world of spirits. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring entrepreneurial stories!

Watch the video of this episode on YouTube, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE:
https://youtu.be/1ntsXjyuXV0

 Best place to learn from founders, owners and entrepreneurs

▪️W: https://theliquidentrepreneur.co 

 
 The Liquid Entrepreneur on Social

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/theliquidentrepreneur
▪️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquidentrepreneur
▪️Twitter: https://twitter.com/TLEntrepreneur 

 The Host

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/iammonteb 

 The Guest

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/lovealwaysabisola/

The Product

▪️W: https://www.cheerswithabisola.com/

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/cheerswithabisola

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Join us in this inspiring episode of The Liquid Entrepreneur as we dive into the remarkable journey of Troy Pepito, the CEO and Founder of Genuine Spirit Company. From Navy Chief Petty Officer to a dynamic leader in the adult beverage industry, Troy’s story is a testament to passion, resilience, and innovation.

Discover how a home brewing hobby in his garage evolved into a thriving business that now reaches over 140 military bases across multiple states. Troy shares his insights on navigating the complexities of the alcohol supply chain, the challenges of start-ups, and his collaboration with veteran-owned distillery Hotel Tango.

Learn about how Troy's military background shapes his approach to leadership and quality. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or simply curious about the world of craft spirits, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiration.

Don’t miss this chance to hear from a true pioneer who is redefining excellence in the beverage industry! Tune in, share, and raise a glass to the entrepreneurial spirit!

Watch the video of this episode on YouTube, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE:
https://youtu.be/tGkDOYCu6Qo

 Best place to learn from founders, owners and entrepreneurs

▪️W: https://theliquidentrepreneur.co 

 
 The Liquid Entrepreneur on Social

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/theliquidentrepreneur
▪️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquidentrepreneur
▪️Twitter: https://twitter.com/TLEntrepreneur 

 The Host

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/iammonteb 

 The Guest

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/troy.m.pepito/

The Product

▪️W: https://aprilonebourbon.com/

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/genuinespiritcompany/

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Welcome to Episode 16 of The Liquid Entrepreneur Podcast: "Fashioning Flavor: TK Burtin-Johnson's Signature Style with Red Hazel."

Join us as we dive into the captivating journey of TK Burtin-Johnson, the red fedora-wearing co-founder of Red Hazel Whiskey. From her beginnings as a model to her role in crafting one of the most unique whiskey brands in the industry, TK's story is one of resilience, innovation, and style.

Discover how TK's upbringing and passion for connecting with people paved the way for Red Hazel's mission to introduce a new way of enjoying rye whiskey. Learn how her blend of creativity and determination, paired with her iconic red fedora, has set Red Hazel apart in the spirits market.

In this episode, TK shares her insights on resilience, entrepreneurship, and the importance of self-care amidst the challenges of starting a business. Hear firsthand about the highs and lows of building Red Hazel, from its inception during the pandemic to its recent accolades and expansion.

Whether you're a whiskey enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply love a good success story, "Fashioning Flavor" is an episode you won't want to miss. Tune in as we toast to TK Burtin-Johnson's inspiring journey and the flavorful legacy of Red Hazel Whiskey.

Watch the video of this episode on YouTube, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE:
https://youtu.be/5UAlAxEjWJY

 Best place to learn from founders, owners and entrepreneurs

▪️W: https://theliquidentrepreneur.co 

 
 The Liquid Entrepreneur on Social

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/theliquidentrepreneur
▪️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquidentrepreneur
▪️Twitter: https://twitter.com/TLEntrepreneur 

 The Host

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/iammonteb 

 The Guest

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/mzburtin/

The Product

▪️W: https://redhazel.net/

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/redhazelofficial/     

Support the show

Join us on The Liquid Entrepreneur as we uncork the fascinating journey of Emily Darchuk, the innovative founder of Wheyward Spirit. In this episode, we dive into Emily's transformation from a food scientist navigating the natural food and dairy industry to a trailblazing entrepreneur on a mission to turn whey waste into premium spirits. Discover the origin of Wheyward Spirit and Emily's vision for sustainability in the dairy and spirit industries.

This episode is a toast to entrepreneurship, sustainability, and the indomitable spirit of Emily Darchuk. Don't miss out on this spirited conversation - watch, share, and join us in raising a glass to Wheyward innovation! 

Share, and Sip Along: Wheyward Trailblazer on The Liquid Entrepreneur YouTube Podcast!

Watch the video of this episode on YouTube, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE:
https://youtu.be/pzw9eAv__q8

Best place to learn from founders, owners and entrepreneurs

▪️W: https://theliquidentrepreneur.co 

 
The Liquid Entrepreneur on Social

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/theliquidentrepreneur
▪️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquidentrepreneur
▪️Twitter: https://twitter.com/TLEntrepreneur 

The Host

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/iammonteb 

The Guest

▪️LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilydarchuk/  

The Product

▪️W: https://www.wheywardspirit.com/

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/wheywardspirit/

Support the show

Episode 14: Hoop Dreams to Barrel Streams: Alan Henderson's Liquid Legacy

Join us in this exhilarating episode as we dive into the extraordinary journey of Alan Henderson, a towering figure both on and off the basketball court. From dominating the NBA scene to crafting a legacy in the spirits industry, Henderson's story is nothing short of a slam dunk.

A Life Beyond Hoops - Discover how Alan's transition from a standout NBA career to becoming the mastermind behind Henderson Spirits Group unfolded. His journey from hoops to barrels is a testament to resilience, ambition, and a pursuit of entrepreneurial excellence.  With a mission to to bring diversity to the forefront of the spirits industry, Alan's dedication to spotlighting African American stories in the world of spirits adds a unique flavor to every bottle.  His commitment to representing communities of color is changing the narrative, one pour at a time.

Learn about the challenges, triumphs, and the making of a liquid legacy.

Watch, Share, and Sip Along: Hoop Dreams to Barrel Streams on The Liquid Entrepreneur Podcast!


Watch the video of this episode on YouTube, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE:
https://youtu.be/0GimXsPN6Yg

  
 Best place to learn from founders, owners and entrepreneurs

▪️W: https://theliquidentrepreneur.co 

 
  The Liquid Entrepreneur on Social

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/theliquidentrepreneur
▪️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquidentrepreneur
▪️Twitter: https://twitter.com/TLEntrepreneur 

  The Host

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/iammonteb 

   The Guest

▪️Alan IG: https://www.instagram.com/44alanhenderson

 The Product

▪️W: https://www.hendersonspiritsgroup.com/

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/hendersonspiritsgroup (Henderson Spirits), https://www.instagram.com/tombullocks (Tom Bullocks), https://www.instagram.com/sipbirdie (Birdie Brown) 

Support the show

In Episode 13 of "The Liquid Entrepreneur," we uncork the extraordinary tale of AMIT SINGH & MARCIN MALYSZKO, the dynamic duo behind Mission Craft Cocktails, in an episode titled "Crafting Bonds: The Unlikely Friendship Fueling Entrepreneurial Success." Amit and Marcin's serendipitous encounter at a charity event during the pandemic unfolded into more than they could have imagined – a profound friendship and a remarkable business venture.

Join us as we navigate through the chance encounters and shared passions that led these two individuals, with markedly diverse life experiences, to become not only best friends but the co-founders of Mission Cocktails. Their journey has unfolded into a story of resilience, shared values, and a commitment to giving back.

As we explore their entrepreneurial expedition, discover how Amit, a first-generation university graduate raised in Toronto, and Marcin, who grew-up quickly to support his family in Chicago, joined forces to create a business with a Mission that goes beyond profit.

Watch the video of this episode on YouTube, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE:
https://youtu.be/rfHtKNYU8cg 

  
 Best place to learn from founders, owners and entrepreneurs

▪️W: https://theliquidentrepreneur.co 

 
  The Liquid Entrepreneur on Social

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/theliquidentrepreneur
▪️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquidentrepreneur
▪️Twitter: https://twitter.com/TLEntrepreneur 

  The Host

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/iammonteb 

   The Guest

▪️Amit IG: https://www.instagram.com/asinghcanada

▪️Marcin IG: https://www.instagram.com/marcinoc

 The Product

▪️W: https://missioncocktails.com/

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/missioncocktails/

Support the show

 In this episode of The Liquid Entrepreneur YouTube Podcast, we delve deep into the inspiring journey of Quentin Vennie, a Baltimore native, mental health advocate, and co-founder of The Equitea Company. Titled “Steeped in Resilience: Quentin Vennie's Entrepreneurial Transformation with Equitea,” this episode uncovers the remarkable story of how Quentin, faced with mental health challenges, found solace and healing in the art of tea blending. 

We explore Quentin's unique approach to coping with his struggles, using tea blends as a form of self-care and an alternative to traditional medicine. What began as a personal remedy soon transformed into something much bigger - The Equitea Company, a venture rooted in mental health advocacy and healing. Through an openly transparent interview, we bring you the captivating narrative of how Quentin's passion for tea not only transformed his life but also became a powerful entrepreneurial endeavor. 

Join us as we unravel the tale of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of entrepreneurship. Discover how Quentin Vennie’s innovative spirit and commitment to mental health advocacy paved the way for Equitea, a business that not only offers exquisite tea blends but also serves as a beacon of hope and healing for many. 

 

Watch the video of this episode on YouTube, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE:
https://youtu.be/t679w2aYv9k

  
 Best place to learn from founders, owners and entrepreneurs

▪️W: https://theliquidentrepreneur.co 

 
  The Liquid Entrepreneur on Social

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/theliquidentrepreneur
▪️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquidentrepreneur
▪️Twitter: https://twitter.com/TLEntrepreneur 

  The Host

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/iammonteb 

   The Guest

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/quentinvennie

 The Product

▪️W: https://www.instagram.com/equiteaco

▪️IG: https://equitea.com/

Support the show

In this edition, we dive deep into the captivating journey of Donta Henson, a Baltimore native and the visionary co-founder of Los Hermanos Tequila. Join us as we trace Donta's remarkable path from his days as a dispersing clerk in the Navy, handling finances with precision, to his unexpected shift towards pursuing a career in healthcare. But life had a different plan for him, one that would intertwine family, tradition, and a shared love for togetherness. 

In "Building a Legacy of Brotherhood and Tequila: The Donta Henson Interview," we unravel how Donta's dedication to family moments spent over drinks led him to create more than just a tequila brand. Los Hermanos Tequila, meaning "the brothers" in Spanish, stands as a heartfelt tribute to the bond between Donta and his co-founder brother.

Watch the video of this episode on YouTube, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE:
https://youtu.be/MspmxFo9f6Y

  
 Best place to learn from founders, owners and entrepreneurs

▪️W: https://theliquidentrepreneur.co 

 
  The Liquid Entrepreneur on Social

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/theliquidentrepreneur
▪️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquidentrepreneur
▪️Twitter: https://twitter.com/TLEntrepreneur 

  The Host

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/iammonteb 

   The Guest

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/tequila_boss78/

 The Product

▪️W: https://www.tequilaloshermanos.com/

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/loshermanostequila/ 

Support the show

In this episode of "The Liquid Entrepreneur" Podcast, we delve into the inspiring life journey of Karl Franz Williams, a New York native with rich Caribbean roots, who turned his passion for mixology and heritage into a flavorful venture. From his early days in Corporate America to becoming a celebrated restaurateur and cocktail mixologist, Karl's path was one of determination and creativity. Join us as we explore how Karl's entrepreneurial spirit and love for his Caribbean heritage led him to found Uncle Waithley's ginger beer, leaving an indelible mark on the world of mixology. Discover the secrets behind Karl's success, the challenges he faced, and the unique fusion of flavors that define his culinary triumph. Get ready to be inspired as we uncover the story of how Karl Franz Williams mixed passion and heritage to create a taste sensation that’s captivating drink lovers one sip at a time.

Watch the video of this episode on YouTube, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE:
https://youtu.be/gNJZObmmV-o

  
 Best place to learn from founders, owners and entrepreneurs

▪️W: https://theliquidentrepreneur.co 

 
  The Liquid Entrepreneur on Social

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/theliquidentrepreneur
▪️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliquidentrepreneur
▪️Twitter: https://twitter.com/TLEntrepreneur 

  The Host

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/iammonteb 

   The Guest

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/mrkarlfranz 
 
 

 The Product

▪️W: https://www.unclewaithleys.com/

▪️IG: https://www.instagram.com/unclewaithleys/ 

Support the show