The Last Call Podcast with Arthur G

Arthur G
  • 5.0 (25)
  • Comedy Interviews
  • Updated Weekly

The Last Call Podcast with Arthur G is where drinks, stories, and the hospitality industry go down smooth. Formerly known as Bourbon & Bullsht*, host Arthur G continues the tradition of sharing a glass with guests from all walks of life—from master distillers and brand ambassadors to nurses, teachers, and content creators. Each week, we dive deep into the world of spirits, featuring exclusive interviews with icons like Ardbeg, Ron del Barrilito, and Zomoz Mezcal. Whether you’re a bourbon beginner or a seasoned scotch collector, we explore the history, craftsmanship, and "artistic reality" behind your favorite bottles. Every month, we raise a special toast to the real MVPs: the bartenders, servers, and hospitality pros who keep our spirits high. It’s heartfelt, a little buzzed, and always worth the last call. Subscribe for: Bourbon reviews, distillery backstories, hospitality industry insights, and authentic conversations that prove the best stories happen after the last call.

  1. Aug 14

    Emma Janzen on The Classic Cocktail Sessions & The Future of Mezcal

    In this episode, we sit down with James Beard Award-winning spirits journalist and author Emma Janzen. We dive deep into understanding spirits through their full cultural ecosystem, exploring how she broke into the drinks world through journalism, photography, and simply showing up to industry events. Emma also breaks down her latest project co-authored with bartender Toby Maloney, The Classic Cocktail Sessions—a fun, casual, step-by-step guide to dialing in the balance, texture, temperature, and aroma of classic drinks without getting bogged down in origin histories. Plus, we discuss the origins of her acclaimed Mezcal book, the vital need to treat agave spirits with cultural respect, and what to expect in her upcoming projects. 🥃 In This Episode, We Cover: Breaking into the Industry: How writing for newspapers and mastering photography led to a career in spirits and a role as an academy chair for 50 Best Bars. The Classic Cocktail Sessions: Taking a "punk-rock," mechanics-first approach to mastering cocktails. Mezcal's Cultural Impact: Why flavor diversity matters and the ethics of representation in the evolving agave landscape. What's Next: A sneak peek at the substantially updated second edition of her Mezcal book (coming 2027) addressing social, political, and environmental issues, plus a new Mexican-American cocktail book with Nacho Jimenez. ⏳ Chapter Markers: 00:00 Welcome Emma Janzen 01:20 New Book Announcement 02:17 Punk Rock Cocktail Guide 06:05 Skipping Cocktail History 07:34 Writing Into Spirits 12:02 Industry Openness & Mentors 13:02 Welcome Home Pour 14:36 Writing Meets Photography 17:55 Why Mezcal Matters 21:00 Mezcal Book Origins 23:38 Second Edition Rebuild 27:12 Ethics And Representation 28:40 Prequel To Manifesto 29:53 Craft vs Sessions 30:58 Co-author Workflow 34:07 Finding Their Voice 37:12 Mezcal Storytelling Lens 38:51 Second Edition Issues 40:08 Showing Up Matters 46:09 Respect the Culture 49:34 Deathbed Mezcal Pick 51:55 Projects and Farewell 54:28 Mosquito Control Ad Subscribe for more cocktail craft, industry interviews, and deep dives into the world of spirits!

  2. Jul 31

    Whiskey Valor Foundation: Veteran Wellness & Preventing Military DUIs with Luis Martinez Jr.

    What if the bourbon community could be the key to preventing military DUIs and addressing veteran mental health? Today on the Last Call Podcast, Arthur G. is joined by Luis Martinez Jr., a retired Marine, Pat Tillman Scholar, and founder of the Whiskey Valor Foundation. Luis unpacks his journey from military service and geospatial intelligence to discovering the power of the bourbon community at a wellness retreat. We discuss how Whiskey Valor is fulfilling its motto, “More than whiskey,” by funding rideshare vouchers to eliminate military DUIs and using that data to spot early signs of PTSD. In this episode, we cover: The Whiskey Valor Mission: How Luis is using Uber/Lyft vouchers to keep service members safe and identify early warning signs of financial stress or PTSD. Veteran Wellness Retreats: An inside look at their fully funded, judgment-free retreats that give veterans a safe space to connect and heal. Bourbon for a Cause: How distillery partnerships, wet labs, and special barrel picks are paying it forward—including a planned double-barrel release to benefit a fallen service member’s family. How You Can Help: Ways to get involved and support the foundation, even if you don't drink. Connect with Us: Whiskey Valor Foundation: https://whiskeyvalor.org/?srsltid=AfmBOorbqPf6hvby6npvMhLtBFfKc-3TL3Iqg-5x3j02kTqIQReV-cQg Follow Luis: @whiskeyvalor Follow Last Call Podcast: @lastcallwitharthur Episode Chapters: (00:00) Welcome and Mission (01:44) Luis’ Military Journey (03:23) Discovering Bourbon Culture (06:33) Pat Tillman Scholars Explained (09:19) Whiskey Valor Core Mission (11:28) Rideshare Program Impact (13:39) Education and Wet Labs (16:39) Wellness Retreat Approach (19:08) Aftercare and Early Check-Ins (23:20) Colorado Retreat Planning (25:15) A Life-Changing Moment (26:07) Impact Beyond Whiskey (27:46) Retreat Returns to Colorado (28:55) Barrel Pick Pay-It-Forward (32:50) Distillery Partners Explained (35:17) Behind the Scenes Grind (37:12) How to Support Without Drinking (40:22) Last Call Favorite Pour (42:26) Where to Follow and Upcoming Events (44:50) Final Thanks and Sign Off

  3. Jul 17

    Trendsetter Spirits: Crafting Rum & Giving 100% to Homeless Veterans with Dr. Ken Thompson

    How does a search for a 10-year anniversary bottle turn into a craft spirits brand that gives 100% of its profits to homeless veterans? In this episode, host Arthur Gatton sits down with US Army veteran Dr. Ken Thompson. Dr. Thompson is the founder of Trendsetter Spirits, born out of the Alpha Omega Phi Military Fraternity and Sorority and brought to life through a partnership with veteran-owned Dragon Distillery in Maryland. Dr. Thompson opens up about his personal journey of retiring from the military in 2009, managing PTSD and traumatic brain injuries, and channeling his experiences into earning a doctorate to help other transitioning veterans. Tune in as we discuss the nuances of small-batch rum production, how they developed their massive hit—Mango Pineapple rum—and what it takes to land shelf space at giants like Total Wine. Most importantly, you'll hear how every single bottle sold translates directly into veteran programming, golf therapy, and community support. If you want to drink well and do good, this is an episode you can't miss. Support the Mission & Get Your Bottle: Trendsetter Spirits: https://trendsetterspirits.com Alpha Omega Phi Military Fraternity & Sorority: https://www.alphaomegaphi.org Dragon Distillery: https://www.dragondistillery.com Connect on Social Media: Trendsetter Spirits IG: @trendsetterspirits Trendsetter Spirits Facebook: Trendsetter Spirits Alpha Omega Phi IG: @alphaomegaphi If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! 🎧 Episode Chapters 00:00 Meet the Guest 01:17 Trendsetter Spirits Origin 03:29 Nonprofit Mission 04:53 Military to Boardroom 06:58 Doctorate With Purpose 09:30 Why Trendsetters 10:42 Pandemic Outreach 12:14 How to Get Involved 14:03 Brand Bottles and Distribution 16:48 Choosing Rum 18:02 Small Batch Process 20:10 Flavor Development 21:32 Mango Pineapple Hit 22:02 Flavor Testing Timeline 23:13 Store Driven New Releases 24:05 Winning Big Retail 25:50 Bottles To Veteran Impact 27:54 Golf Therapy For Veterans 31:47 Next Markets And Events 34:39 How To Buy And Request 36:23 Signature Cocktail Tips 37:20 Mission And Social Links 39:29 Mosquito Control Sponsor

  4. Jul 3

    Tiki, Touring & Metal: Richie Brown (I Am Morbid / Terrorizer) on Permanent Vacation, European Festivals & Tour Bus Mixology

    How does a death metal guitarist end up building one of Florida's premier tropical cocktail programs?  This week on The Last Call Podcast, host Arthur G sits down with Richard “Richie” Brown, guitarist for I Am Morbid and Terrorizer, and the creative force behind Permanent Vacation. Richie opens up about balancing a dual career shredding on stage at massive European festivals like Belgium's Graspop and managing a high-volume, world-class tiki bar.  We talk about the recent "Speed Freak" takeover night with Paris’ legendary Dirty Dick, the hospitality philosophy inspired by Pittsburgh’s Hidden Harbor, and how Richie runs a fully functioning cocktail bar directly out of his tour bus bunk. Plus, Richie drops exclusive updates on Terrorizer’s upcoming album, their transition to festival-focused touring, and a whirlwind travel guide featuring bar finds in Bangkok, Singapore, Poland, and Baba Au Rum in Athens. Pull up a stool for a deep dive into the unexpected parallels between commanding a metal stage and commanding a bar.  Inside this episode: • [01:17] The "Speed Freak" Dirty Dick's Paris pop-up. • [02:53] Playing Europe's massive festivals vs. club tours. • [14:06] Transitioning from music to high-end bartending and consulting. • [23:52] Tiki community menu philosophy and Hidden Harbor's influence. • [28:11] Global bar crawl: Bangkok, Singapore, Bulgaria, and Athens. • [37:07] Tipping culture, respect, and European vs. American hospitality. • [42:38] How to pack a functional cocktail bar on a tour bus. Connect with The Last Call Podcast on social media to see behind-the-scenes photos and cocktail recipes from this episode!  Support our sponsor: https://www.byrnepest.com/

  5. Jun 15

    Glenmorangie’s Harrison Ford Edition, “A Tale Of” Series & The Science of Fruity Whisky (with Glenmo Dan)

    Dive deep into the world of single malt scotch with returning guest Daniel Crowel (“Glenmo Dan”), Glenmorangie’s National Brand Ambassador! In this episode, host Arthur G sits down with Dan to explore the cutting edge of Glenmorangie's whisky experimentation. We taste the highly anticipated Harrison Ford limited edition (finished in re-toasted Portuguese red wine casks) and discuss how the Hollywood legend actually helped refine the final profile. Plus, we pull back the curtain on Dr. Bill Lumsden’s fearless creative process, the evolution from the Private Editions to the new “A Tale Of” series, and the fascinating science behind Glenmorangie’s signature ester-driven, fruity style. In this episode, we cover: The Harrison Ford Partnership: A tasting and breakdown of the new 46.5% ABV, non-chill filtered limited release. Behind the Barrel: Dr. Bill Lumsden’s massive library of simultaneous whisky experiments. Fermentation Science: How Glenmorangie’s hard, mineral-rich spring water dictates yeast nutrition and flavor. "Once Upon a Time in Scotland": Spotlighting the actual distillery workers behind your favorite drams. Chapter Markers: 00:00 Welcome Back Glenmo Dan aka Daniel Crowel  01:23 Fans Ask: Experimental Bottles 02:44 Private Editions And “A Tale Of” 04:51 Meet Dr. Bill Lumsden 07:01 How Experiments Run In Parallel 09:37 Why Time Cannot Be Rushed 11:06 Harrison Ford Limited Edition 14:33 Celebrity Endorsement Done Right 19:14 Cask Recipe And Tasting Notes 25:43 Once Upon A Time In Scotland 28:03 The People Behind The Whisky 31:24 Spirits, Music, And Memory 32:36 Whiskey Memories and Music 35:05 Distillery Pride and Joy 37:20 Hard Water Fermentation Science 42:07 Against Whiskey Marketing Bias 44:53 Whiskey Speed Dating Events 48:07 Dr. Bill’s Fearless Creativity 52:36 Experimental Releases Explained 55:35 Musician Collab Dream Cask 01:01:23 Where to Find Dan 01:02:51 Final Thanks and Sign Off 01:04:39 Sponsor: Mosquito Control If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!

  6. May 29

    Keepers of the Quaich & The Art of Blending with Dewar’s Gabriel Cardarella

    Does blended Scotch truly get the respect it deserves? We dive deep into the technical craft and history of blending to find out. On this episode of The Last Call Podcast with Arthur G, we sit down with Gabriel Cardarella, North American Brand Ambassador for Dewar’s. We are breaking down the intricate details of Dewar’s double aging process, the persistent myths surrounding blended scotch, and how Master Blender Stephanie McLeod is spearheading massive innovation across their portfolio. Gabe also shares his wildly unconventional career path—transitioning from managing tours for the Jackass crew to becoming a highly respected whiskey educator inducted into the Keepers of the Quaich. We explore the philosophy behind experimental releases like the Stone Toasted series, discuss Dewar’s role as the official Scotch of the US Open, and conduct a focused tasting of Dewar’s 12 (featuring a first-fill unrinsed bourbon cask finish sourced from Angel’s Envy) and Dewar’s 15. Grab a glass and join us as we explore how whiskey connects people through time, place, and memory. In this episode, we cover: The truth about age statements and why they don’t automatically equal quality. The technical mechanics of Dewar’s double aging and cask finishing. Gabe's journey into the Keepers of the Quaich in 2024. Tasting notes on Dewar's 12 (Bourbon Finish) and Dewar's 15. Modern bar culture, the Highball soda hack, and frozen Penicillin ideas. Episode Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome to the Dewar's Deep Dive 02:01 - Gabe’s People-First Philosophy 05:06 - Beyond the Script: Authentic Whiskey Talk 09:51 - Dewar's Heritage and Innovation 15:12 - Why Blends Deserve Respect 17:29 - Age Statements and Time Capsules 20:41 - Meet the Makers Behind the Whisky 22:25 - From Jackass Tours to Scotch 27:16 - Keepers of the Quaich Explained 31:10 - Proving Credibility in Scotch 34:14 - Golf, the 19th Hole, and US Open Limited Releases 36:33 - Hyper-Local Cask Finishes 40:44 - The Discovery Mindset in Whiskey 42:05 - Blends vs. Single Malts 43:03 - Dewar's 12 Bourbon Finish 45:12 - Tasting Notes & Storytime 50:50 - Single Malts Worth Exploring 54:20 - The Stone Toasted Challenge 56:57 - How Dewar's 12 Drinks 59:07 - Scotch in Modern Cocktails 01:01:13 - The Highball Soda Hack 01:02:51 - Frozen Penicillin Ideas 01:08:13 - Desert Island Dram 01:10:29 - Deathbed Drink Choice 01:13:06 - Dewar's 15 Deep Dive 01:15:13 - Media-Inspired Cocktails 01:19:54 - Wrap Up & Where to Find Gabe

    Keepers of the Quaich & The Art of Blending with Dewar’s Gabriel Cardarella

  7. May 22

    Bonus: Luna La Volpe as Death in Orlando Fringe’s 'Masquerade of the Red Death'

    🎟️ See Masquerade of the Red Death at Orlando Fringe (May 12–25): Get tickets at orlandofringe.org Arthur G. and Aurora Fable host a special bonus episode of The Last Call Podcast with performer Luna La Volpe, who is taking the stage as Death in Masquerade of the Red Death at the Orlando Fringe Festival. Luna shares the evolution of her performance career, spanning two decades of teaching dance, character work, and theme park entertainment. She discusses how Miss Foxy DeVill brought her into the world of burlesque, and why finding a home base at The Collective helped her heal from negative experiences in the entertainment industry. In this episode, we discuss: The Reality of Theater: What it truly requires to be a "swing" and how producers encouraged Luna to build her own androgynous interpretation of Death. Community & Boundaries: Navigating direct communication, setting boundaries, and building a supportive community outside of an echo chamber. Orlando Fringe Survival Guide: Exploring "The Lawn," navigating the loss of state arts funding, and breaking down ticket pricing—including the $6 Monday shows for service industry workers! Episode Timestamps: 00:00 - Bonus Episode Intro 01:15 - Meet Our Guest: Luna La Volpe 01:37 - Origin Story: From Theme Parks to Burlesque 07:54 - Why the Burlesque Community Matters 16:51 - Straight Talk vs. Tact & Setting Boundaries 25:21 - "Resting Rage Face" Stories 38:37 - Categorizing Friendships & Accountability 52:05 - Stepping into the Role of Death 54:10 - The Importance of Swings in Theater 01:01:31 - The Orlando Fringe Funding Pitch & What is "The Lawn"? 01:10:02 - Fringe Ticket Costs & Industry Monday Discounts 01:17:51 - Finding Death's Androgyny 01:35:58 - Final Plugs and Fringe Dates 01:42:24 - Sponsor: Burn Pest Control

  8. May 18

    Inside the "Masquerade of the Red Death" | Burlesque, Edgar Allan Poe & Cocktail Chaos

    Welcome back to The Last Call Podcast with Arthur G! Today we are joined by two incredible burlesque performers, Aurora Fable and the newly married Whitney Wolfe, for an episode full of theater secrets, book talk, and cocktail chaos. With the award-winning “The Masquerade of the Red Death” returning for Fringe (May 12–25), we get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring Edgar Allan Poe’s dark concepts to the stage. Aurora shares her panic-mode preparation schedule, while Whitney discusses the pressure and creative freedom of stepping into the role of the new Green Room. Beyond the stage, we’re diving into smut reads, romantasy books, the logistics of casting partners in burlesque acts, and a hilarious game of Dracula: F***, Marry, Kill. 🥃 What We’re Drinking: To match the Green Room theme, we’re pouring up a fantastic Green Chartreuse "Last Word" variation, alongside a refreshing Gin, Lemon, and Hibiscus cocktail. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Meet Aurora Fable & Whitney Wolfe 03:45 - Orlando Fringe Prep & "The Masquerade of the Red Death" 06:05 - Big Bang Boom Collective’s "Tour de Force" 10:07 - Whitney Joins the Cast: The New Green Room 14:18 - Drink of the Day: Hibiscus Gin & A "Last Word" Variation 17:53 - Translating Poe into Burlesque 28:53 - The Colored Rooms of Death Explained 43:36 - Podcast Side Quests & Audience Stats 48:04 - Smut Reads, Galatea, & Romantasy Books 55:39 - Casting Partners in Acts & Beetlejuice Ideas 01:02:17 - Rapid Fire & Dracula FMK 01:09:05 - Where to Find the Guests 01:14:12 - Final Thanks & Sponsor Links & Resources: Sponsor: Protect your home with Byrne Termite and Pest Control! https://www.byrnepest.com/ Catch the Show: Get your tickets for “The Masquerade of the Red Death” at Fringe (May 12–25) here: https://www.orlandofringe.org/ Tour de Force: Grab tickets for Big Bang Boom Collective at the Me Theater on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/big-bang-boom-collective-69152612363 Take a Class: Join Whitney’s Wednesday burlesque class at Exchange Dance Academy: https://www.exchangedance.com/ Follow Aurora Fable: aurorafable Follow Whitney Wolfe: misswhitneywolfe Follow Arthur G: @lastcallwitharthur on Instagram and TikTok

    Inside the "Masquerade of the Red Death" | Burlesque, Edgar Allan Poe & Cocktail Chaos
See All (170)

5
out of 5
25 Ratings

About

The Last Call Podcast with Arthur G is where drinks, stories, and the hospitality industry go down smooth. Formerly known as Bourbon & Bullsht*, host Arthur G continues the tradition of sharing a glass with guests from all walks of life—from master distillers and brand ambassadors to nurses, teachers, and content creators. Each week, we dive deep into the world of spirits, featuring exclusive interviews with icons like Ardbeg, Ron del Barrilito, and Zomoz Mezcal. Whether you’re a bourbon beginner or a seasoned scotch collector, we explore the history, craftsmanship, and "artistic reality" behind your favorite bottles. Every month, we raise a special toast to the real MVPs: the bartenders, servers, and hospitality pros who keep our spirits high. It’s heartfelt, a little buzzed, and always worth the last call. Subscribe for: Bourbon reviews, distillery backstories, hospitality industry insights, and authentic conversations that prove the best stories happen after the last call.

Information

You Might Also Like