The People's Proof - podcast cover

The People's Proof

Michael Walkerpeoplesproof.libsyn.com
Welcome to The People's Proof where we believe the true proof of any spirit are the people who enjoy it. My name's Michael Walker and when I was in law school, back in 2002, I bought a bottle of Pappy van Winkle, 20 year bourbon for $85 at the Liquor Barn. And it was all over the shelf because pretty much people just enjoyed Maker's Mark and Woodford Reserve, where I grew up in, whereas in school and my, how things have changed. It's a whole new industry worth billions, and it's brought millions of people into this wonderful hobby and community that I love and enjoy. Anytime you take a drink of bourbon, you're really taking a drink of history that sat in the barrel for years. But there's more to it than that. It's the grain that made the spirit. It's the wood that made the barrel. It's the farmer and the land and this nation. I hope you'll come along for this journey, because I want to do something different than your typical bourbon podcast. We're going to do happy hour conversations. We'll have people on Zoom Happy Hours. Heck if you subscribe and join, you'll be able to join in on the fun. So I hope you'll join me, and let's raise a glass...together.

Episodes

Ep. 43 - Bro-Ams and Bourbon

In light of some recent HR changes on another pod, Shimmy's crazy busy schedule, and Irish Barry seeking out the best Gin Mickey at Disneyworld, only the Professor and Joe show Joe Turner talks with the Professor about golfing, life, and whether you take bourbon out on the links. The Professor confesses his low tolerance for seltzer's. And since its summertime, the Professor brings the Man O' War cocktail while Joe brings the Suffering Bastard to the studio. GROW THE PROOFER NATION! Click here t...

Aug 02, 202258 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 42 - Moonshine!

Before bourbon was a thing, the original Proofers were heatin' up the copper and making their own shine to share and love. The Professor brings in an "alleged" bottle of illegal applie pie shine for Shimmy, Joe, Irish Barry, Detective Andy to enjoy while talking about the history of moonshining and today's attempts at legit "White Lightning." Next, the guys get into another corn whiskey that has a following...of lovers or haters: Mellow Corn. GROW THE PROOFER NATION! Click here to listen, like, ...

Jul 26, 20221 hr 11 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 41 - Seltzers?

We stand by our motto when we say the true proof of spirits are the people who enjoy them, even if they are Seltzers. While there may be No Law with the Claw, the Professor, Shimmy, Joe Turner, Irish Barry White try to figure out whether there's any respect in them either. From the latest carb-conscious crazes such as High Noon and White Claw, to the sugar-laden fruity goodness of Smooj, the guys try out some varieties, get into the Seltzer craze, and tie them to more traditional cocktails like ...

Jul 20, 20221 hr 18 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 40 - The Bar Hopper

Do you want your party to have the coolest cocktails, but you don't have the time or your mixing skills run the risk of food poisoning? The Professor, Detective Andy, and Shimmy interview Kenzie, bartender extraordinaire and owner of the Bar Hopper - a mobile bartending service bringing carefully-curated cocktails for any event. From her humble beginnings learning the bar trade at a dive bar in Minneapolis to bringing an awesome vanilla-bean paste Old Fashioned and (literally) jamming gin-based ...

Jul 13, 20221 hr 18 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 39 - Whiskey and War Stories with Bryan Avery and Alex Hernandez of Horse Soldier Bourbon Whiskey

The Professor and Shimmy join Jeffrey Mueller and WhisKY of The Scotchy Bourbon Boys for their first cross-pod episode! The guys sit down with Bryan Avery of Horse Soldier Bourbon Whiskey. Plus, they get the honor to sit down with a real American hero, retired Army Sergeant Major, Green Beret, and CIA paramilitary officer and executive Alex Hernandez. Bryan tells us about the production and varieties of Horse Soldier & the history behind the real-life "Horse Soldiers" who made the idea a reality...

May 23, 20221 hr 12 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 38 - Joe's Mint Julep, First Annual Tater Derby, & My Old Tater Home

Just in time to make your best mint julep for the Kentucky Derby, "Director" Joe Turner makes some of his carefully-curated mint juleps started from his days in Louisville. Irish Barry is pissed that Joe gave him trough juleps at old Derby parties. The Boss himself - Brian Howie - joins for the first segment. The guys ask the Professor - who's also a Kentucky Colonel - on how to be one. The Professor calls the first ever Tater Derby and butchers My Old Kentucky Home with his version. Thankfully,...

May 06, 20221 hr 13 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 37 - Cinco de Mayo with Western Reserve Distillers and Check Your Vertical!

The Professor, Irish Barry White, Detective Andy Gordon, and Shimmy talk margaritas, mojitos, michaledas and all things Cinco de Mayo. The guys try Western Reserve Distillers new organic anejo with the guidance of Assistant Distiller Vick Moberg. And it a great surprise the hosts of Check Your Vertical, Scott and Mandie Verlinger join the gang, who find out Scott is no scrub when it comes to mixology. GROW THE PROOFER NATION! Click here to listen, like, review, subscribe and share! http://beacon...

May 02, 20221 hr 10 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 36 - A Bloody Good Show!

The Professor. Shimmy, and Detective Andy Gordon try out all the different ways to enjoy everyone (except Shimmy's) favorite tomato-and-spirit drink. Learn about Bloody Marys, Bloody Marias, Bloody Mariannes, make-your-own mixers, and pre-mixes. The guys dip into the historic "Bring Back Major Peters" at Keeneland. Different spirits, but still a meal in a glass! Hear Irish Barry call in from Kentucky to protest about the absence of the Red Snapper since no one on the show used gin. GROW THE PROO...

Apr 26, 202249 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 35 - Pod-A-Palooza

Even though our RSVP got lost in the mail, TPP closes out PodPopuli Hudson's second Pod-A-Palooza at Comida in Hudson, Ohio! The Professor, Detective Andy Gordon, and Shimmy give out bottles to tater costume models and get real servers and bartenders to let it all out with therapy only the People's Proof can provide. To top it off, the gang brings on hosts of your other favorite PodPopuli podcasts! GROW THE PROOFER NATION! Listen, like, review, subscribe and share! Send show, host, and guest ide...

Apr 25, 202230 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 34 - Passover & Easter-Friendly Cocktails

The Professor, Mrs. Professor, Shimmy, Detective Andy Gordon and Irish Barry discuss Passover and Easter-friendly cocktails. Barry gets upset when his Peep-topped Gin Rickey gets a black jelly bean. Detective Andy questions his love of all bloody marys when he tries one with Arak liquor while everyone laughs their anise off. The Professor tries to convince everyone that Peeps soaked in Russell's Reserve taste like bread pudding, proving that whether you celebrate Passover, Easter, or nothing, yo...

Apr 24, 20221 hr 6 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 33 - The Professor’s Interview with Jim Canepa, Superintendent of the Ohio Department of Liquor Control

On this very special episode of the People's Proof, the Professor squares off with none other than the Man himself...Superintendent Jim Canepa of the Ohio Division of Liquor Control. From taters, lines and lost bottles to coming soon spirits and innovation, the two provide some insight on what a state liquor agency is...and isn't. The Professor, with the help of Rony Daher, Yis Goldstein, Professor Matt Lozy, Egyptian Barry White, and Brett Shriver help the Professor and the Superintendent show ...

Apr 14, 20222 hr 40 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 32 - The First Annual People’s Proof Tater Day Parade

The Professor and the gang get into color commentary mode as the Tater Institute hosts the Inaugural National Tater Day Parade! Join them as they highlight the pageantry - from Lady Gaga's Baby Blanton Dress, the bands, dancers, floats, and of course....the Taters who try to ruin it all. Listen, like, review, subscribe and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoplesproof.com , and join the Facebook Page at tinyurl.com/ThePeoplesProofFB !...

Apr 14, 20221 hr 1 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 31 - National Cocktail Day

Sometimes folks want to enjoy their spirits ways other than neat. Other times folks can’t handle a spirit without something a little extra. And sometimes a spirit just needs… something extra. We’re not a 100% sure, but we’re guessing that’s how cocktails came to be, and ultimately leading to National Cocktail Day, celebrated every March 24. This week, Detective Andy Gordon, Joe Turner, Shimmy, Irish Barry, and Scott Branstetter welcome the Professor back over a few cocktails. The Professor shows...

Apr 05, 202258 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 30 - (Irish) Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go

Irish whiskey is on the menu for St. Patrick’s Day as Shimmy breaks down Irish whiskey with the Professor, The Detective, and “Irish” Patrick Barry O’Hara. We learn the basics of what makes Irish Whiskey and we all agree it’s better without the “E.” Dave Goldstein pops in to try some lime green vodka and regrets it. Listen, like, review, and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoplesproof.com , and join the Facebook Page at tinyurl.com/ThePeoplesProofFB!...

Mar 30, 202252 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 29 - Take the Moscow Out of the Mule?

The Proofers stand united with Ukraine's fight for freedom against the Russian Horde. State liquor authorities, private liquor stores, and consumers are clearing their shelves of Russian-made vodka or anything remoely associated with the Russian Federation. Some are even giving the Moscow Mule the same treatment. The Professor extols the values of Ukranian honey pepper vodka while discussing The Detective, Shimmy, Joe & Karen Turner, & Irish Barry talk some spirits foreign affairs. Listen, like,...

Mar 30, 20221 hr 16 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 28 - Tater Love

In this Valentine’s Day special, the Professor and gang provide some interesting ideas for both the lonely taters and the taters with significant spuds. Listen, like, review, subscribe and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoplesproof.com, and join the Facebook Page at tinyurl.com/ThePeoplesProofFB!

Mar 21, 20221 hrTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 27 - Mini Madness

This week, the guys explore the virtue and benefits of mini bottles. From ease of travel, to a cheaper way of trying a spirit for the first time, the guys discuss the virtues of mini bottles of spirits. Listen, like, review, subscribe and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoplesproof.com, and join the Facebook Page at tinyurl.com/ThePeoplesProofFB

Mar 21, 202259 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 26 - Appreciating Bartenders, But They're All Working

With The Professor on lockdown due to orders, and The Detective filming another movie, the show was left to Shimmy. Adrienne steps in for Andy, and we have former celebrity bartender Joe Turner on, as we discuss how to not be a terrible customer. We share our thoughts on how difficult the job is, run down a list of drinks bartenders hate making, while having a few shots. Listen, like, review, subscribe and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoplesproof.com, and ...

Mar 21, 20221 hr 3 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 25 - Happy Chinese New Year!

Proofers come from all walks of life, and celebrate all kinds of traditions. In this episode, Lee Turner of After Hours Cinema and the Professor crack open a bottle of xx baiju 1 and a mini Johnnie Walker Blue Label while the gang tries some fun CNY cocktails back home in Hudson. Gong Ha Fat Choy! Listen, like, review, subscribe and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoplesproof.com, and join the Facebook Page at tinyurl.com/ThePeoplesProofFB!...

Mar 21, 20221 hr 1 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 24 - Kampai! Japanese Whiskey!

The first podcast while the Professor is on Reserve Orders, the gang dives into the world of Japanese Whiskey and it's growing popularity in the spirits world. Whether you love pure malts or blends, this episode is a great introduction to learning about a style of whiskey that makes up a large share of the market! Listen, like, review, subscribe and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoplesproof.com, and join the Facebook Page at tinyurl.com/ThePeoplesProofFB!...

Mar 21, 202255 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 23 - New Year's Value Shelfers & Listener Mail

The Professor recognizes many of you are paying off debt from buying holiday gifts but that you still have that bourbon itch. On this episode, we provide you some great value shelfer options to scratch that itch. We have our first installment of our "Listener Mail" segment, and and Detective Andy Gordon sleuths a surprise interview. Shimmy, Egyptian Barry White, and Irish Barry White join. Listen, like, review, and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoplesproof....

Jan 09, 20221 hr 15 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 22 - The Proofer Spirit of Giving and Tater Carols!

Get in the giving and caroling mood with this week’s episode! First the Professor speaks with our old friend the Bourbon Rabbi Chaim Litvin to talk about his efforts to help survivors of the Western Kentucky Tornadoes. Next, the Professor is joined by Anton Gorkavchuk and Chuck Dillon to talk about the Rubber City Bourbon Society and their recent fundraiser for Stewart’s Caring Place: Cancer Wellness Center at the Corkscrew Saloon in Medina bringing in thousands of dollars. Finally, Ed Kijauskas...

Dec 20, 20211 hr 14 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 21 -The Proofer 2021 Holiday Cocktail Show

This week, the Professor and guests take a crack at some holiday cocktails. Some made on site, other's from Blitzen's pop-up bar at Hudson's Restaurant in Hudson Ohio. Greg Bellan and Shimmy join Detective Andy Gordon and his wife Adrienne, and Joe and Karen Turner round it out. Listen, like, review, and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoplesproof.com , and join the Facebook Page at tinyurl.com/ThePeoplesProofFB !...

Dec 14, 20211 hr 9 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 20 - Proofer Holiday Gift Ideas

Matt Synder - owner of Bourbon Trading Company - joins the Professor, Detective Andy Gordon, "Irish Barry White" Barry O'Hara, and Paul Levine to discuss bourbon-themed holiday ideas. Michael "Shimmy" Chmielewski brings some Whistlepig Piggyback and 12-Year Ryes, Claude Mays, and Rittenhouse ryes, and the guys do an impromptu tasting using BTCo's tasting boards! Listen, like, review, and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoplesproof.com , and join the Facebook ...

Dec 06, 20211 hr 16 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 19 - Vodka Vibes

The Professor - calling in from Duluth, Minnesota - is joined by Detective Andy Gordon, Adrienne Gordon, the Ginfluencer Barry O’Haara, Joe and Karen Turner, and Shimmy to talk all things vodka! Listen, like, review, and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoplesproof.com , and join the Facebook Page at tinyurl.com/ ThePeoplesProofFB !...

Nov 22, 20211 hr 13 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 18 - Blind as a Bat!

Sherif “Egyptian Barry White” Mansour, “Detective” Andy Gordon, Joe Turner, Barry O’Hara, and Professor Matt Lozy join the Professor for a fun-filled blind tasting. What’s good? What’s not? Who won? Who lost? You’ll have to tune in to find out. Listen, like, review, and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoplesproof.com , and join the Facebook Page at tinyurl.com/ThePeoplesProofFB !...

Nov 07, 20211 hr 5 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 17 - Prooftoberfest!

Travis Pennick and Andy Gordon join the Professor with their favorite beers for Prooftoberfest! Listen, like, review, and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoplesproof.com , and join the Facebook Page at tinyurl.com/ThePeoplesProofFB !

Nov 01, 20211 hr 13 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 16 - Ginnin’ Up a Good Episode!

Put up your tonic water and break out your botanicals; the Professor and crew are talkin' gin! The Professor is joined again by Michael “Shimmy”Chmielewski of Southern Glazers, “Detective” Andy Gordon, Sherif Mansour, and the pod’s favorite Irishman, Barry O’Hara. Barry takes us on a history tour of gins, and Shimmy shows what’s on Canepastan shelves. what folks can find on Canepastan shelves. Listen, like, review, and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoplespr...

Oct 24, 20211 hr 13 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 15 - Ruminating on Rum!

Michael “Shimmy” Chmielewski, Andy Gordon, Greg Bellan, Sherif Mansour, and Matt Lozy talk about rum & highlight some brands that would make Jobu proud! Listen and look for these brands at your nearest Canepastan Ration Stores! The guys discuss the latest OHLQ lottery, and take a deep dive into Buffalo Trace’s announcement that there will be 2021 George T. Stagg. Is this a Stagg-gate or should folks just be expecting more than usual Staggflation? Listen, like, subscribe and share where you enjoy...

Oct 11, 20211 hr 15 minTranscript available on Metacast

Ep. 14 - Tacklin’ TEQUILA!

Proofers know there’s more good stuff on the shelves than just Bourbon and Rye. The Professor is joined again by Michael “Shimmy”Chmielewski of Southern Glazer Spirits to learn more about tequila and what folks can find on Canepastan shelves. Sherif Mansour and his cousin, Andy Gordon and his wife, and Mark Gutkowski walk Proofers through a tasting. Producer Christian even gets in on the action! Listen, like, review, and share! Send show ideas or ask a be a guest or guest host to host@thepeoples...

Oct 03, 20211 hr 23 minTranscript available on Metacast