The Last Call Podcast with Arthur G

The Mexican Renaissance: Zomoz Mezcal with Diego de la Vega Fernandez

Discover the "Mexican Renaissance" of spirits with Diego de la Vega Fernandez, co-founder of Zomoz Mezcal. In this episode of The Last Call, we explore how Zomoz is redefining the agave category by balancing modern luxury with deep-rooted tradition.
Diego takes us inside the creation of Zomoz, a USDA organic-certified mezcal crafted to be approachable and removing the barrier of aggressive smokiness. We discuss the vital role of female head distiller Isabel Santiago, the challenges of achieving organic certification, and the "artistic reality" of modern Mexico.
From his transition from law school to the spirits industry to the mentors who shaped his path, Diego shares an honest look at what it takes to build a legacy brand. Pour yourself a drink and join us for this deep dive into the soul of Mezcal.
🥃 In this episode, we cover:
The Mexican Renaissance: How Zomoz is showcasing the modern, luxurious side of Mexican culture.
Approachable Mezcal: Creating a flavor profile that welcomes new drinkers without the "smoke bomb."
Production Secrets: Inside the process with head distiller Isabel Santiago.
Business of Spirits: The challenges of organic certification and scaling a brand without losing quality.
Personal Journey: Diego’s shift from law to liquid and the lessons learned along the way.
CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction & The Agave Spirit Excitement 01:34 Meet Diego de la Vega Fernandez: The Visionary Behind Zomoz 01:59 A Personal Journey with Mezcal 02:38 The Mezcal Experience: Honest Feedback & Cocktails 03:41 Diego's Background & Mezcal Market Insights 07:38 Defining The Mexican Renaissance & Modern Luxury 11:53 The Origin Story of Zomoz Mezcal 17:58 Production & Partnership with Distiller Isabel Santiago 22:31 Artisanal Mezcal: Tradition vs. Craftsmanship 29:21 Diego's Path to the Wine & Spirits Industry 30:49 Where the Journey Began 31:40 Starting a Spirits Brand: Challenges & Regrets 32:52 The Hard Road to USDA Organic Certification 35:01 Choosing Quality Over Quantity 37:18 Unique Stories & Mistakes Made Along the Way 40:25 Scaling Up While Maintaining Tradition 43:17 Mentors & Industry Influences 45:46 Exciting Projects & Future Plans 50:23 Final Thoughts
🔗 CONNECT WITH ZOMOZ MEZCAL:
Website: zomozmezcal.com
Instagram: zomozmezcal
🎙️ CONNECT WITH THE LAST CALL:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lastcallwitharthur/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lastcallpod
#ZomozMezcal #Mezcal #TheLastCallPodcast #AgaveSpirits #MexicanRenaissance #CocktailCulture #SpiritsIndustry #DiegoDeLaVegaFernandez

Vodka Made from Milk? Scaling Sustainable Spirits w/ Mark Simmons

Why The "Vodka of Tomorrow" is Made from Whey (w/ Mark Simmons)
Description: Is the future of vodka sustainable? We sit down with Mark Simmons, the Master Blender behind Broken Shed Vodka, to discuss how they are changing the game using New Zealand’s natural resources.
Mark shares his transition from flavor chemist to master blender and reveals the science behind creating a premium vodka distilled from whey (a dairy byproduct) and pristine aquifer water. We also cover the brand's incredible journey from a literal broken shed to winning "Best In Show" at the 2025 Tag Global Spirits Awards.
If you’re interested in the business of spirits, sustainable distilling, or just want to know what the "Vodka of Tomorrow" tastes like, this episode is for you.
In this episode, we cover: ✅ How Broken Shed uses whey to create a cleaner spirit. ✅ The challenges of breaking into the competitive US Market. ✅ Why New Zealand is becoming a powerhouse for new world spirits. ✅ The story behind winning Best In Show at the 2025 TAG Awards.
CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Introduction: The Vodka of Tomorrow 01:49 - The Rise of New Zealand’s Spirits Industry 03:46 - From Flavor Chemist to Vodka Innovation 05:04 - The Science: Distilling Whey & Water 08:44 - Perfecting the Blend for a Smooth Taste 21:24 - The Legend of the Broken Shed 23:07 - Scaling Up: From Shed to Global Brand 24:07 - Breaking into the US Market 26:11 - Winning Best In Show (TAG Awards 2025) 26:45 - Why Quality Beats Marketing 31:07 - Future Trends in the Vodka Category 34:19 - Lessons Learned in the Industry 38:33 - Final Thoughts
#BrokenShedVodka #Vodka #Distilling #SpiritsIndustry #NewZealandSpirits #SustainableSpirits #LastCallPodcast #MarkSimmons

Inside Ardbeg: From Wee Beastie to Limited Editions with National Ambassador Travis Tidwell

🥃 Is Ardbeg the ultimate Islay Scotch?
In this episode of the Last Call podcast, host Arthur Gatton sits down with Travis Tidwell, the National Ambassador for Ardbeg Scotch Whisky. We dive deep into the peat-filled world of one of Scotland’s most iconic distilleries.
Travis shares his journey from culinary school to whisky expert, revealing the secrets behind Ardbeg’s distinct smoky flavor and the science of peat. We discuss everything from the revival of the distillery and sustainable practices to their wildest marketing stunts—including sending whisky to the International Space Station!
Whether you are a seasoned peat-head or just starting your Scotch journey, this episode is packed with history, tasting notes, and expert advice.
🔥 IN THIS EPISODE:
The History: How Ardbeg survived near-closure to become a cult favorite.
The Science: Understanding Peat and how it defines the Islay profile.
The Bottles: A deep look at the "Wee Beastie" and limited edition releases.
The Future: Sustainability on Islay and the Ardbeg Hotel experience.
👇 SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAST CALL PODCAST [Insert Link To Subscribe Here]
⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction & Host's Excitement 00:32 Meet Travis Tidwell: Ardbeg National Ambassador 01:28 From Culinary School to Scotch Whisky 05:33 What Makes Ardbeg Unique? 10:08 Deep Dive: Peat & Its Role in Scotch 19:15 The Cult of Ardbeg: The Committee 24:55 The Great Revival of the Distillery 27:46 Review: The Wee Beastie (5 Years Old) 33:11 Limited Editions & Innovation 34:13 Unique Maturation Methods 35:08 Tasting Notes & First Impressions 39:04 Sustainability & Community on Islay 41:06 The Ardbeg Hotel Experience 46:23 Sending Whisky to Space & Marketing 51:48 Top Recommendations & Fun Questions 56:31 Closing Remarks
#Ardbeg #ScotchWhisky #WhiskyPodcast #LastCallPodcast #IslayScotch #WhiskyTasting #TravisTidwell #PeatedWhisky
🔗 CONNECT WITH US
Follow Arthur Gatton: @lastcallwitharthur
Follow Ardbeg: @ardbeg & @ardbegusa
Website: https://www.ardbeg.com/homepage.html 
⚠️ DISCLAIMER: Please drink responsibly. Content intended for audiences of legal drinking age.

Dr. Megan Ford Part 2: Horror Obsessions, Fitness & Mental Health

Welcome back for Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Megan Ford! 🥃
In the conclusion of this special two-part series, we trade the bedside manner for the boogeyman. We dive deep into Dr. Ford's obsession with horror movies (including her thoughts on IT), how she navigates ADHD and OCD, and the reality of staying fit while balancing a medical career and burlesque.
From psychological thrillers to the journey of self-love and body positivity, this episode gets real, raw, and spooky.
In this episode, we cover:
🎬 Horror & Pop Culture: Why we love being scared, Star Wars fandom, and the gore vs. psychological thriller debate.
🧠 Mental Health: Navigating life and creativity with ADHD and OCD.
💪 Body Positivity: The pressure of performance, finding an accountability partner, and the journey to self-love.
💍 Life Updates: A sneak peek into her upcoming nuptials!
CHAPTERS 00:00 Welcome Back to Part Two 00:41 Star Wars & Pop Culture Obsessions 02:19 Horror Movie Fixations 03:42 Graphic Gore vs. Psychological Thrillers 05:18 Paranormal & Supernatural Fears 11:28 Craft Cocktails & Creative Techniques 16:49 Social Media Algorithms & Fixations 18:14 Dr. Ford’s Favorite Performances of the Year 35:45 The Exhaustion of Social Obligations 36:09 Reflecting on Personal Growth (ADHD/OCD) 38:05 The Journey of Self-Love & Body Positivity 40:13 Balancing Fitness & Performance Art 46:20 The Importance of Accountability 49:09 Struggles & Triumphs in Fitness 01:05:57 Upcoming Shows & Final Thoughts
🎙️ ABOUT THE PODCAST The Last Call Podcast explores the stories behind the spirits, the people in the industry, and the cocktails that bring us together.

Dr. Megan Ford: Medicine, Burlesque & The Perfect Banana Mai Tai

Doctor by Day, Burlesque by Night | 
Welcome back to the Last Call Podcast! 🥃
In this episode, we sit down with the inspiring Dr. Megan Ford to see where life has taken her one year after her last appearance on the show. We dive deep into the fascinating duality of her life—navigating the high-pressure world of healthcare while pursuing her creative passion for Burlesque performance art.
We also geek out over Star Wars, debate the best coffee spots, and, of course, mix up something special at the bar. Stick around for the Banana Mai Tai recipe!
In this episode, we cover:
🏥 Healthcare Realities: The importance of bedside manner and battling imposter syndrome.
💃 The Art of Burlesque: How Megan balances her medical career with professional dance.
🍹 Cocktail Hour: A step-by-step guide to the Banana Mai Tai.
☕ Coffee Wars: Dutch Bros vs. Starbucks and the importance of Sunday rituals.
📝 Featured Cocktail: Banana Mai Tai (Check the video at 01:06:19 for the full build!)
[Optional: Paste the ingredients here if you have them handy, otherwise leave this line out]
CHAPTERS 00:00 Welcome Back to the Show 00:27 Reflecting on Past Episodes 00:49 Lighthearted Banter & AI Jokes 02:36 Drink of the Day Introduction 05:57 Dr. Ford’s Career Updates 07:51 Deep Dive: The World of Burlesque 17:26 The Journey of Whitney Wolf 31:43 Bedside Manner & Healthcare Challenges 34:29 Pursuing Creative Passions 37:58 Navigating Imposter Syndrome 40:18 The Creative Process in Performance Art 51:25 Nutrition & Busy Schedules 56:56 Coffee Wars: Preferences & Routines 01:01:14 The Coffee Shop Incident 01:06:19 RECIPE: Banana Mai Tai 01:13:11 Star Wars Fandom Discussion 01:19:20 Conclusion

Crafting Spirits in the Sunshine State: St. Augustine Distillery Explored

Behind the Scenes at St. Augustine Distillery with Will Hensler & Ric deMontmollin
Join us for an engaging episode featuring Will Hensler, Chief Operating Officer, and Ric deMontmollin, VP of Production, from St. Augustine Distillery. Discover how this beloved distillery operates within a historic 1907 ice plant, the philosophies behind their craft spirits, and the unique challenges and triumphs of producing fine bourbon, gin, and more in the heart of Florida. Get an inside look at their commitment to local sourcing, sustainable practices, and creative collaborations, all while sharing a few personal anecdotes and favorite drinks along the way.
00:00 Introduction and Special Guests01:33 Will Hensler's Journey into Distilling03:32 Ric's Path to St. Augustine Distillery05:47 Challenges and Uniqueness of Florida Distilling15:02 Farm to Flask Philosophy21:19 Collaborations and Industry Relationships28:10 Legal Landscape and Future Goals32:51 The Charm of Beat-Up Barrels35:44 The Legend of Day One Danny41:00 Citygate's Origin and Unique Spirits45:52 The Art of Port Finished Bourbon52:14 Closing Thoughts and Personal Reflections

From Bourbon and Barbells to Community Fitness: Murii's Journey

Strength, Community, and Lifting Heavy: Catching Up with Murii
Welcome to the latest episode where we catch up with our special guest, Murii (@wonder_barbella), from the days of Bourbon and Barbells. A year later, we dive deep into the power of community fitness at United Front Community Fitness, the benefits of Olympic weightlifting, and how to stay motivated and strong. We talk about inspiring female athletes, effective coaching, and making life-changing decisions. Plus, discover how weightlifting can transform your life, no matter your age. Don’t miss out on this fun and inspiring conversation. Cheers!
00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:55 Catching Up with Moody05:07 Fitness and Training Insights15:55 Muriis Coaching Journey22:06 Community and Gym Culture32:17 Upcoming Competitions and Training Plans32:57 Balancing Writing and Athletic Motivation34:56 The Importance of Weightlifting for All Ages37:04 The Benefits of Weightlifting for Women40:09 Personal Stories and Gym Community57:40 Softball and Finding New Hobbies01:02:46 Finding Motivation and Support01:03:40 The Importance of Community01:05:35 Rapid Fire Questions01:05:50 Hip Hop and Weightlifting01:08:03 Health and Longevity01:10:39 Weightlifting Challenges01:14:03 Coaching and Programming01:26:24 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Aged to Perfection: Exploring Armagnac with Dan Hakker

Exploring the World of Armagnac with Dan Hakker of Oade Armagnac | 
In this episode of Bourbon and Bullshit, we sit down with Dan Hakker of Oade Armagnac to explore the intriguing world of Armagnac, one of the oldest and most unique spirits in existence. Dan shares his journey from a two-decade career in tech to founding Oade Armagnac, the process of discovering and selecting rare Armagnac casks, and the challenges and joys of building a brand with deep historical roots. Join us as we sip on some of the oldest Armagnacs available, hear fascinating stories from Dan's travels to France, and learn why this spirit stands out in the world of fine liquors. Whether you're an enthusiast or just curious, this episode offers rich insights and great conversation around a truly exquisite spirit.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:22 Dan's Journey with Oade Armagnac02:10 What is Armagnac?02:21 Tasting and Pouring Armagnac05:14 Dan's Background and Transition to Spirits06:34 Discovering Armagnac and Barrel Selections12:18 Creating a Unique Brand Identity13:59 The Art of Custom Selections16:40 Adventures in France23:03 Securing the First Casks27:16 The Seller Master's Offer27:37 Translator's Struggle28:13 Negotiation Tactics29:22 First Eight Casks30:15 Family Involvement31:22 Partner's Enthusiasm34:02 Dogs and Drinks35:08 Tasting the 1984 Cask37:10 Educating About Armagnac39:43 Starting the Brand45:03 Elevator Pitch and Future Plans48:22 Closing Remarks

From Games to the Big Screen: Tony's Journey

Catching Up with Hollywood Sound Mixer Tony Solis | Bourbon & BS Throwback Episode
In this throwback episode of The Podcast, host Arthur catches up with Hollywood sound mixer Tony Solis. They discuss Tony's recent projects, including his work with Adam Sandler, Anna Kendrick, and the 
00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Content Teaser00:30 Throwback Episode Announcement01:21 Interview with Tony SLIs Begins07:42 Tony's Journey and Career Insights21:47 Tony's Transition to LA and Video Game Industry42:49 The Value of Exposure in the Entertainment Industry43:16 Super Bowl Performers and Exposure44:36 The Importance of Being Genuine in the Industry46:23 Collaborative Nature of the Film Industry47:45 Recent Projects and Experiences54:26 Working with Big Names and Staying Professional01:03:38 Dream Projects and Future Aspirations01:11:43 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

From San Francisco Sales to Chicago Spirits: The Rhine Hall Journey

From Tech to Distillery: Jennifer Solberg Katzman of Rhine Hall Distillery
Welcome back, everyone! In today's episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Jennifer Solberg Katzman, co-founder of Rhine Hall Distillery in Chicago. Jennifer left her successful tech career in San Francisco to turn a family hobby of distilling apple brandy into a booming business. Rhine Hall specializes in creating pure fruit brandies, or Eau de Vie, using 25 pounds of fresh fruit for a single bottle. We explore the story behind the business, unique family dynamics, the evolution into tropical flavors, and their method of working with pure fruit distillates. Plus, Jennifer shares insights into their collaborations, challenges, and her vision for the future. Tune in to learn more about this unique distillery and the exciting new flavors they are experimenting with!
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:13 Jennifer's Background and Family Business03:05 The Distillation Process and Product Details05:07 Challenges and Market Introduction19:13 Collaborations and Future Plans21:17 Reflecting on Past Experiments21:44 Collaborative Efforts and Future Aspirations22:51 Tropical Line Expansion24:50 Challenges and Successes in the Market27:56 Building Brand Loyalty31:39 Balancing Business and Personal Life34:33 Future Plans and Market Expansion37:46 Where to Find Our Products39:48 Conclusion and Sponsor Message