Bar Talking Talking Bar

Bar Talking Talking Bar
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Places & Travel

Podcast sharing stories of Bartenders, Brands & Ambassadors, Hospitality Pros & Cocktail Lovers in NYC

  1. 4d ago

    An NYC Bar Insider on What Makes a Venue Truly Unforgettable

    Send us Fan Mail What is the real secret to building a bar that people actually love and return to week after week? In this episode, NYC hospitality veteran Nikolas Vagenas (co-owner of Williamsburg's Mr. Melo) breaks down the business psychology of customer retention, the global rise of vinyl listening bars, and how to build a sustainable, zero-waste cocktail program that stands out in a crowded global market. ABOUT THE GUEST & EPISODE Some bars serve drinks. Others make you feel like you belong. Nikolas Vagenas has spent his career building the second kind. Tucked into Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Mr. Melo is more than a listening bar — it's a space built on New Greek cuisine, sustainable compost cocktails, and genuinely good music. But underneath all of that is something Nikolas cares about even more: making people feel seen. With over a decade in elite NYC hospitality — helping open, run, and consult on iconic spots like Lullaby, Bar Meridian, Apotheke, Babel Loft, and Gordos Cantina — Nikolas isn't trying to reinvent the wheel. He understands that the job was never about chasing temporary trends — it's about protecting what hospitality has always truly meant. In this masterclass conversation, he breaks down how to lead with inclusivity, empathy, and genuine care as an industry standard. Every bar across the globe shares the same bones — glasses, bottles, a bar top — but what makes each one unforgettable is everything around that: the ambience, the price point, the food, and the people behind it. Nikolas is one of the definitive voices carrying that torch, and this episode is a universal reminder of why consistency matters so much in an industry that's always changing. If you’re into hospitality industry insights,  this episode is for you!  🚨COMMENT🚨 — what makes a bar feel like home to you? 👉 FOLLOW Nikolas  @nikpicks 👉 FOLLOW Mr. Melo  @mr.melobar 👉 SHARE this with someone who needs to visit Mr. Melo Follow Our Podcast 👇🏽 IG @bartalkingtalkingbarnyc TikTok @bttbnycpodcast 🌎 https://bartalkingtalkingbarnyc.com 🎧 🔊 📻 Listen the Episode On: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music Podcast Index Overcast Podcast Addict Castro Castbox Podchaser Player FM Goodpods TrueFans SUPPORT  THE  SHOW  🫶🏼 DONATIONS 💳💰 👇🏽 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2526003/supporters/new https://buymeacoffee.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc Every donation makes a difference and keeps this project thriving. Inquiries please reach out to Nury Robles at: 📧 bartalkingtalkingbar@gmail.com This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits. Support the show This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits.   You Tube https://www.youtube.com/@BarTalkingTalkingBar-z8p IG https://www.instagram.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc/ Follow, Like, Share, Comment and Subscribe

    An NYC Bar Insider on What Makes a Venue Truly Unforgettable

  2. Aug 20

    The Conversation Continues: Tom Richter & Sother Teague Get Real About the Bar Industry (Part 2)

    Send us Fan Mail We're back with PART 2  of one of the most meaningful conversations we've ever recorded. If you haven't watched Part 1 yet, go do that first — but if you're ready, let's dive back in with Tom Richter and Sother Teague. Tom's spent decades chasing "fresh and delicious" — from learning at Sasha Petraske's side to building his own tonic empire with Tomr's Tonic. Sother’s spent his career behind the bar, behind the mic, and behind the people coming up under him at Amor y Amargo. Neither of them is done growing. That's the whole point of this conversation. This one stayed with us long after we stopped recording. We think it will for you too. 🍸 🎯 Comment — what does staying in this industry long-term actually take, in your  Experience? 🔁 Share this with someone who needs to hear it 🔔 Subscribe — we're just getting started 💛 Support the show via the link in bio 👉 @tomr_richter | tomrstonic.com 👉 @creativedrunk If you’re into hospitality industry insights,  this episode is for you!  Follow Our Podcast 👇🏽 IG @bartalkingtalkingbarnyc TikTok @bttbnycpodcast 🌎 https://bartalkingtalkingbarnyc.com 🚨 COMMENT TO HELP US GROW🚨 LIKE & SHARE  to boost engagement, increase reach, and build community! 🎧 🔊 📻 Listen the Episode On: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music Podcast Index Overcast Podcast Addict Castro Castbox Podchaser Player FM Goodpods TrueFans SUPPORT  THE  SHOW  🫶🏼 DONATIONS 💳💰 👇🏽 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2526003/supporters/new https://buymeacoffee.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc Every donation makes a difference and keeps this project thriving. Inquiries please reach out to Nury Robles at: 📧 bartalkingtalkingbar@gmail.com This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits. Support the show This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits.   You Tube https://www.youtube.com/@BarTalkingTalkingBar-z8p IG https://www.instagram.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc/ Follow, Like, Share, Comment and Subscribe

    The Conversation Continues: Tom Richter & Sother Teague Get Real About the Bar Industry (Part 2)

  3. Aug 13

    Two Legends, One Table: Tom Richter & Sother Teague on their legacy Behind the Bar (Part 1)

    Send us Fan Mail This is the episode we've been waiting to release. Two of the most respected names in NYC's bar industry, in ONE room, sharing decades of hard-earned wisdom. This is PART 1 of a special two-part conversation you don't want to miss. Tom Richter has spent years shaping the liquor industry from the inside out. He worked hand-in-hand with the legendary Sasha Petraske as part of the opening bar staff at The John Dory Oyster Bar and Milk and Honey NYC. He went on to become Head Bartender at The Beagle, and later joined Megan Dorman at Dear Irving. He's also the creator of Tomr's Tonic, a handcrafted quinine tonic that launched an entirely new beverage category — now distributed across the U.S., Europe, Hong Kong, Australia, and Canada. Sother Teague is Beverage Director at Amor y Amargo, NYC's bitters and amaro mecca, host of the podcast Speakeasy on Heritage Radio Network. He's Wine Enthusiast's Mixologist of the Year, former president of the NYC chapter of the USBG, and author of I'm Just Here for the Drinks. Beyond bartending, Sother has been a professional chef, culinary instructor, and mentor to countless industry professionals. This conversation dives into what it REALLY takes to build a lasting legacy in the bar industry — the mentorship, the risk-taking, the innovation, and the relentless passion required to go from bartender to industry icon.  Whether you're a bartender, industry professional, or cocktail enthusiast, this two-part series is packed with knowledge you won't find anywhere else. Part 2 drops soon — make sure you're subscribed so you don't miss it!  👉 SUBSCRIBE  for more legendary hospitality conversations! 👉 FOLLOW Tom @tomr_richter and check out tomrstonic.com 👉 FOLLOW Sother @creativedrunk 👉 COMMENT your favorite Tom or Sother moment below! 👉 SHARE  this with your favorite bartender! Follow Our Podcast 👇🏽 IG @bartalkingtalkingbarnyc TikTok @bttbnycpodcast 🌎 https://bartalkingtalkingbarnyc.com 🚨 COMMENT TO HELP US GROW🚨 LIKE & SHARE  to boost engagement, increase reach, and build community! 🎧 🔊 📻 Listen the Episode On: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music Podcast Index Overcast Podcast Addict Castro Castbox Podchaser Player FM Goodpods TrueFans SUPPORT  THE  SHOW  🫶🏼 DONATIONS 💳💰 👇🏽 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2526003/supporters/new https://buymeacoffee.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc Every donation makes a difference and keeps this project thriving. Inquiries please reach out to Nury Robles at: 📧 bartalkingtalkingbar@gmail.com This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits Support the show This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits.   You Tube https://www.youtube.com/@BarTalkingTalkingBar-z8p IG https://www.instagram.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc/ Follow, Like, Share, Comment and Subscribe

  4. Aug 6

    The Hustle Never Stopped: Rob Nieves on Rejection, Reinvention, and Building His Own Bar

    Send us Fan Mail Some people wait for opportunity. Others chase it down, get ignored, and keep showing up anyway. Rob Nieves is the second kind. In this episode of Bar Talking Talking Bar, we sit down with Rob Nieves — Senior Market Manager for Ten to One Rum, Co-Founder of Hello Hello Bar & Cafe, and Co-Founder of 11th Hour Coffee Liqueur. But his story didn't start behind a bar. It started with a phone retail job, a layoff, and a relentless refusal to give up. Rob's path took him from working for a friend's footwear/fashion brand in marketing, to attending a book seminar where he became inspired by an author — reaching out repeatedly, getting ignored more than once, until finally landing a job booking that author's school conferences. It was a chance gig bartending at a catering hall that changed everything, setting him on the path to where he stands today: an owner, a founder, and a respected name in the hospitality and spirits industry. This episode is a masterclass in persistence. It's proof that this industry rewards hustlers — the ones who keep showing up, keep asking, and keep building even when the answer is silence. Whether you're grinding through uncertainty, chasing a dream, or just love a good comeback story — this conversation will remind you that your breakthrough might be one more "yes" away.  If you’re into hospitality industry insights,  this episode is for you!  👉 SUBSCRIBE for more real, unfiltered hospitality journeys! 👉 FOLLOW Rob @robertrnieves and @hellohellobar 👉 COMMENT  your own "kept knocking" story below! 👉 SHARE this with someone who needs to hear it today! Follow Our Podcast 👇🏽 IG @bartalkingtalkingbarnyc TikTok @bttbnycpodcast 🌎 https://bartalkingtalkingbarnyc.com 🚨 COMMENT TO HELP US GROW🚨 LIKE & SHARE  to boost engagement, increase reach, and build community! 🎧 🔊 📻 Listen the Episode On: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music Podcast Index Overcast Podcast Addict Castro Castbox Podchaser Player FM Goodpods TrueFans SUPPORT  THE  SHOW  🫶🏼 DONATIONS 💳💰 👇🏽 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2526003/supporters/new https://buymeacoffee.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc Every donation makes a difference and keeps this project thriving. Inquiries please reach out to Nury Robles at: 📧 bartalkingtalkingbar@gmail.com This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits. Support the show This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits.   You Tube https://www.youtube.com/@BarTalkingTalkingBar-z8p IG https://www.instagram.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc/ Follow, Like, Share, Comment and Subscribe

    The Hustle Never Stopped: Rob Nieves on Rejection, Reinvention, and Building His Own Bar

  5. Jul 30

    Every Late Shift Had a Purpose: Stephen Kurpinsky's Disciplined Road to Ownership

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when punk-rock rebellion meets hospitality passion? You get Stephen Kurpinsky — visual storyteller, content creator, and founder of As Is Productions. In this episode of Bar Talking Talking Bar, we sit down with Stephen to unpack an incredible journey that started at the bottom — literally. Stephen began his career as a dishwasher, just trying to figure out life outside the traditional college path. Little did he know, that humble starting point would launch one of the most dynamic careers in the hospitality industry. From there, Stephen climbed his way up through EVERY corner of the industry: 🥃 Brand Ambassador for Mr. Black 🍸 Bar Consultant 🍹 Bar Director & General Manager 🏆 Chapter President for the USBG (United States Bartender's Guild) in California 🎥 Founder of As Is Productions, a media production company capturing the essence of hospitality culture This episode is proof that hospitality isn't just a job —it's a CAREER, a craft, and a calling. Stephen's story shows what's possible when you commit to an industry that so many underestimate. Whether you're a bartender, industry professional, content creator, or just someone questioning the "traditional path," this conversation will change how you see career success. 🔥 👉 SUBSCRIBE for more real stories from NYC's hospitality industry! 👉 FOLLOW Stephen @as_isproductions 👉 COMMENT your own "non-traditional path" story below! 👉 SHARE this with someone who needs permission to bet on themselves! If you’re into hospitality industry insights,  this episode is for you!  Follow Our Podcast 👇🏽 IG @bartalkingtalkingbarnyc TikTok @bttbnycpodcast 🌎 https://bartalkingtalkingbarnyc.com 🚨 COMMENT TO HELP US GROW🚨 LIKE & SHARE  to boost engagement, increase reach, and build community! 🎧 🔊 📻 Listen the Episode On: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music Podcast Index Overcast Podcast Addict Castro Castbox Podchaser Player FM Goodpods TrueFans SUPPORT  THE  SHOW  🫶🏼 DONATIONS 💳💰 👇🏽 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2526003/supporters/new https://buymeacoffee.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc Every donation makes a difference and keeps this project thriving. Inquiries please reach out to Nury Robles at: 📧 bartalkingtalkingbar@gmail.com This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits. Support the show This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits.   You Tube https://www.youtube.com/@BarTalkingTalkingBar-z8p IG https://www.instagram.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc/ Follow, Like, Share, Comment and Subscribe

    Every Late Shift Had a Purpose: Stephen Kurpinsky's Disciplined Road to Ownership

  6. Jul 22

    1 Year Anniversary Special: Bar Talking Talking Bar Hosts Celebrate with First Guests | NYC Stories

    Send us Fan Mail 🎉 We're turning ONE! 🎉 In this special ANNIVERSARY EPISODE the tables turn as Edgar Hernandez and Nury Robles, the CO-FOUNDERS, HOSTS, and PRODUCERS of Bar Talking Talking Bar, step into the spotlight to celebrate an incredible first year of STORYTELLING, COCKTAILS, and COMMUNITY within the HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY. Edgar Hernandez is a prominent New York-based head bartender with over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry. Born in Mexico and raised in NYC, Edgar currently serves as head bartender at Freemans Restaurant, one of the Lower East Side's most beloved hidden gems. His journey from Mexico to becoming a fixture in NYC's bar scene is a story of passion, resilience, and craft. Nury Robles, Mexican-born and NYC-based for over two decades, brings more than 15 years of hospitality experience, having worked everywhere from casual neighborhood spots to the Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park. With degrees in Journalism, Communication, and Documentary/TV Production from UNAM in Mexico and Hunter College in NYC, Nury combines cultural insight, warmth, and curiosity to bring every episode of Bar Talking Talking Bar to life. To celebrate this milestone, we're joined by our very FIRST guests who believed in this podcast from day one: Marcelo Chasi and Elisa Lopez! This full-circle reunion is packed with heartfelt stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and a toast to everyone who's been part of this incredible first year. 🥂 WHY THIS EPISODE MATTERS: *Meet the hosts behind the mic *Relive the journey of Bar Talking Talking Bar's first year *Hear from the guests who started it all *Get inspired by real NYC hospitality industry stories *Celebrate the power of community in the bar industry Whether you're a longtime listener or just discovering us, this episode is a heartfelt look at where we started and where we're headed. 🍸 👉 SUBSCRIBE for more bartender stories, cocktail culture, and NYC hospitality insights! 👉 FOLLOW US on Instagram: @bartalkingtalkingbarnyc 👉 DROP A COMMENT Let us know your favorite episode from Year 1! If you’re into hospitality industry insights,  this episode is for you! Follow Our Podcast 👇🏽 TikTok @bttbnycpodcast 🌎 https://bartalkingtalkingbarnyc.com 🚨 COMMENT TO HELP US GROW🚨 🎧 🔊 📻 Listen the Episode On: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music Podcast Index Overcast Podcast Addict Castro Castbox Podchaser Player FM Goodpods TrueFans SUPPORT  THE  SHOW  🫶🏼 DONATIONS 💳💰 👇🏽 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2526003/supporters/new https://buymeacoffee.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc Every donation makes a difference and keeps this project thriving. Inquiries please reach out to Nury Robles at: 📧 bartalkingtalkingbar@gmail.com This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits. Support the show This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits.   You Tube https://www.youtube.com/@BarTalkingTalkingBar-z8p IG https://www.instagram.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc/ Follow, Like, Share, Comment and Subscribe

    1 Year Anniversary Special: Bar Talking Talking Bar Hosts Celebrate with First Guests | NYC Stories

  7. Jul 16

    NY Cocktail Expo Founder: Matthew Kourie's Journey

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when a master sound engineer and music producer trades the studio for the spirits world? You get the NY Cocktail Expo—and its visionary founder, Matthew Kourie. In this special episode of Bar Talking Talking Bar, we sit down with Matt Kourie, co-founder of the New York Best Wings Festival Championships and the NY Cocktail Expo, the largest cocktail and spirits exhibition in eastern New York. After spending over a decade as a master engineer and sound designer in the music industry, Matt pivoted to his true passion: food, cocktails, and creating unforgettable experiences. Raised by a chef dad who introduced him to international flavors at a young age, Matt became a master wing hunter and libation lover with a comical and energetic hosting persona that made him a beloved figure in the NYC food and cocktail scene. Now, he's bringing together bartenders, brands, and cocktail lovers for an unforgettable experience at the NY Cocktail Expo. Bar Talking Talking Bar is proud to sponsor the NY Cocktail Expo, and this episode gives you an exclusive look behind the scenes of one of the most exciting cocktail events in New York. Whether you're a bartender, spirits enthusiast, or just love a great cocktail, this conversation is packed with energy, passion, and insider details you won't want to miss. If you’re into hospitality industry insights,  this episode is for you!  🎟️ GET YOUR TICKETS: nycocktailexpo.com  OR at the link on IG  📆 Sunday, August 23 📍 Melrose Ballroom 36-08 33rd St Long Island City, NY 11106 Explore Matthew Kourie's world: Instagram: @NYCOCKTAILEXPO Follow Our Podcast 👇🏽 IG @bartalkingtalkingbarnyc TikTok @bttbnycpodcast 🌎 https://bartalkingtalkingbarnyc.com 🚨 COMMENT TO HELP US GROW🚨 LIKE & SHARE  to boost engagement, increase reach, and build community! 🎧 🔊 📻 Listen the Episode On: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music Podcast Index Overcast Podcast Addict Castro Castbox Podchaser Player FM Goodpods TrueFans SUPPORT  THE  SHOW  🫶🏼 DONATIONS 💳💰 👇🏽 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2526003/supporters/new https://buymeacoffee.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc Every donation makes a difference and keeps this project thriving. Inquiries please reach out to Nury Robles at: 📧 bartalkingtalkingbar@gmail.com This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits. Support the show This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits.   You Tube https://www.youtube.com/@BarTalkingTalkingBar-z8p IG https://www.instagram.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc/ Follow, Like, Share, Comment and Subscribe

    NY Cocktail Expo Founder: Matthew Kourie's Journey

  8. Jul 9

    From School Counselor to Bartender: Steven "Kiwi" Ferreira's Journey to Creating Mi Pana Mamajuana

    Send us Fan Mail What does it take to go from rolling silverware to becoming one of NYC's most respected bartenders? In this episode of Bar Talking Talking Bar, we sit down with Steven Ferreira, aka Kiwi, a Queens-born bartender whose journey through the hospitality industry is nothing short of inspiring. Steven started in 2009 as a silverware roller at Boulder Creek Steakhouse while studying child development. From working at an airport bar to becoming head bartender, Steven absorbed every lesson the industry had to offer. A chance encounter with the book Liquid Intelligence changed everything—sparking his passion for craft cocktails and leading him to Manhattan's elite bar scene. Working alongside legends like Joaquin Simó at the now-closed Pouring Ribbons, Steven honed his craft, became a brand ambassador, and built a reputation as a bartender who truly cares about the art. Now, he's pouring his heart into Mi Pana, a mamajuana-inspired spirit rooted in his Dominican heritage. This episode is a masterclass in hustle, passion, and what it means to build a career in the bar industry. Whether you're a bartender, aspiring entrepreneur, or just love a great success story, this one's for you. 🎙️ GUEST: Steven "Kiwi" Ferreira (@KIWINIGRAM)  📍 Current Bar: Aftermath NYC (@AFTERMATH.NYC)  🍹 Drink Project: Mi Pana (Mamajuana-inspired spirit) 💬 LET'S TALK: What's your favorite craft cocktail? Drop it in the comments!  🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more bar industry stories, bartender interviews, and cocktail culture content! If you’re into hospitality industry insights,  this episode is for you! Follow Our Podcast 👇🏽 IG @bartalkingtalkingbarnyc TikTok @bttbnycpodcast 🌎 https://bartalkingtalkingbarnyc.com 🚨 COMMENT TO HELP US GROW🚨 LIKE & SHARE  to boost engagement, increase reach, and build community! 🎧 🔊 📻 Listen the Episode On: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music Podcast Index Overcast Podcast Addict Castro Castbox Podchaser Player FM Goodpods TrueFans SUPPORT  THE  SHOW  🫶🏼 DONATIONS 💳💰 👇🏽 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2526003/supporters/new https://buymeacoffee.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc Every donation makes a difference and keeps this project thriving. Inquiries please reach out to Nury Robles at: 📧 bartalkingtalkingbar@gmail.com This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits. Support the show This podcast is designed for listeners aged 21 and over, or where the legal drinking age permits.   You Tube https://www.youtube.com/@BarTalkingTalkingBar-z8p IG https://www.instagram.com/bartalkingtalkingbarnyc/ Follow, Like, Share, Comment and Subscribe

    From School Counselor to Bartender: Steven "Kiwi" Ferreira's Journey to Creating Mi Pana Mamajuana
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Podcast sharing stories of Bartenders, Brands & Ambassadors, Hospitality Pros & Cocktail Lovers in NYC

Information

  • Creator
    Bar Talking Talking Bar
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Bar Talking Talking Bar
  • Show Website
    Bar Talking Talking Bar

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