Wines and Wins

Wines and Wins

By Djenita SvinjarSociety & Culture
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Wines and Wins episodes

  • Episode 42: Innovation on Tap: Inside ALKAA Alcohol Purifier

    In this episode, we sit down with Founder and CEO of ALKAA, Paul Lagerstedt. Paul shares the revolutionary solution he developed after decades of experiencing discomfort from red wine, beer, and spirits. His journey from diesel mechanic to inventor uncovers the surprising science behind a simple sachet that "attracts" toxins and trace compounds, allowing people to drink more cleanly and feel better the next day.


    More information can be found on ALKAA's website here: ALKAA | The Alcohol Purifier for Alcohol Sensitivity


    36 min
  • Episode 41: The Red Wine Diaries

    In this episode, we sit down with Andrew, the creator and visionary behind The Red Wine Diaries, a social media account exploring the world of red wine from Glasgow, Scotland. We chat about our wine journeys, what wine connoisseurs should keep in mind when it comes to tastings, and tips and tricks for those new to the wine world who want to learn more!


    Follow Andrew on Instagram and TikTok at @theredwinediaries for more of his fantastic insight!

    28 min
  • Episode 40: Hopelands Coffee: Beyond the Bean

    In our fourth and final installment in our series done in collaboration with World Trade Center Denver ("WTCD"), we chat with Kelvin Melgar, the founder and entrepreneur behind Hopelands Coffee.


    We discuss Kelvin's journey, the inception of his business, and how his heritage, purpose, and connections are all rooted in the rich coffee-growing regions of Honduras. This podcast explores the journey from bean to brew, sharing stories that inspire, connect, and uplift.


    Hopelands coffee is available for purchase here: https://hopelandscoffee.com/pages/about

    22 min
  • Episode 39: Sun Ghee's Inspirational Story Built on Wellness and Recovery

    This episode is part 3 of our 4-part collaboration with World Trade Center Denver ("WTCD"), where we highlight fascinating and inspiring immigrant entrepreneurs, their products, and WTCD's global entrepreneur program.


    In this episode, we chat with Farnosh Family, the founder of Sun Ghee, a small-batch ghee company that turned one founder’s personal healing journey into a fast-growing food brand. Founded in Denver, the company sources USDA organic, grass-fed dairy from regenerative farms and emphasizes non-GMO ingredients and traditional food practices.


    Sun Ghee products are available for purchase here: About Us – Sun Ghee

    12 min
  • Episode 38: Leemu Sauces and The Story Behind It All

    As a continuation of our mini-series in collaboration with World Trade Center Denver, in this episode, we sit down with the mother-daughter duo behind Leemu Superfood Sauces—a brand turning everyday meals into nutrient-packed experiences without sacrificing flavor. From their roots in globally inspired ingredients to their mission of making healthy eating effortless, we dive into their origins, story, and overall path to success.

    Whether you’re a foodie, a wellness enthusiast, or just someone looking to upgrade your meals, this conversation will leave you inspired and craving more!

    Leemu sauces can be purchased online at their website:

    ABOUT | Leemu

    20 min
  • Episode 37: Bibamba Chocolates and a Global Entrepreneurial Spirit

    As the first of a special four-part mini series in conjunction with World Trade Center Denver, we talk to four local entrepreneurs in the Denver area about their businesses, backgrounds, and products and services.


    First up, we have Patrick Tcheunou, the visionary and one of the co-founders behind Bibamba Artisan Chocolate, a local artisan chocolate company in Denver known for making high-quality, ethically sourced chocolate with cacao beans from the owners’ family farm in Cameroon, which then get turned into chocolate in Colorado.


    Our discussion ranges from his entreprenurial journey, the World Trade Center Denver Global Entrepreneur Program, tips and tricks he has for other business owners, and reflections amidst it all.


    Learn more about Bibamba at: From Field to Bar: Ethical Cacao Farming for Sustainablity – Bibamba Artisan Chocolate

    14 min
  • Episode 36: The Wine-Oh App

    Most wine lovers feel overwhelmed by endless options and confusing labels—that’s exactly what inspired Jason Markey to create Wine-Oh, an AI-powered app transforming how we discover, choose, and enjoy wine. In this candid conversation, Jason reveals how a side project in Los Angeles evolved into a game-changing tool that personalizes wine recommendations, democratizes wine knowledge, and even suggests pairings with your favorite foods—all at your fingertips.


    The Wine-Oh app is available for viewing and download here: WineOh – Best Wine Discovery App | Scan & Discover Wines

    37 min
  • Episode 35: Finger Lakes & Leap of Faith Takes

    In this episode, Djenita sits down with Lawrence (Larry) Doolittle from Frontenac Winery, located in the Finger Lakes Wine Region, and Larry shares how pivotal legislation in the late 1970s transformed a sleepy region into a vibrant wine destination with over 500 wineries today—and why small producers are winning in a world dominated by giants.


    The two discuss how New York's passage of the farm winery bill sparked a renaissance, empowering local farmers to craft and sell their own wines directly to consumers, bypassing outdated laws rooted in prohibition. Larry also breaks down the regional characteristics that make Finger Lakes wines unique—like the lighter, citrus-driven Chardonnays and the approachable reds that keep visitors coming back. Plus, get insights on how the pandemic turned into an unexpected boom for small wineries and what today’s younger generations mean for wine’s future.

    38 min
  • Episode 34: A Toast to New Beginnings- Welcome to Season 2!

    As the podcast evolves, so does its focus.


    Djenita emphasizes the role of food in cultural experiences, promising more culinary insights alongside wine recommendations. With a commitment to authenticity and open dialogue, this season invites listeners to join a community of exploration and celebration. Stay tuned for more episodes that blend the art of wine with the adventure of travel.


    Follow "Wines and Wins" on Instagram for updates, giveaways, and a taste of what's to come!

    20 min

About Wines and Wins

From the publisher's feed

Wines and Wins is a show that follows host, Djenita Svinjar, who invites guests from all walks of life to share a glass of wine and their journeys in overcoming various obstacles and hurdles in their personal and professional lives. The show centers on Djenita's affinity for fine wines and sharing others' stories with the world.