Shows
Napa Valley Insider PodcastGarrett Hales & Spring Mountain VineyardIn episode forty-nine of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew sits down with Garret Hales, Estate Director at Spring Mountain Vineyard, one of Napa Valley’s most storied and secluded properties. Garret shares his journey from working the floor at The French Laundry to leading the revival of a 151-year-old estate perched above St. Helena. He dives into the challenges—and opportunities—of managing 900 acres of mountain terrain, the legacy of Spring Mountain’s Judgment of Paris moment, and the winery’s ambitious plans to blend luxury hospitality with deep historical roots. From ATV vineyard tours to century-old palms and a reim...2025-06-1723 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastBruce Marder & Capo 29In episode forty-eight of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew sits down with Bruce Marder, the celebrated chef and restaurateur behind Capo in Santa Monica and its new offshoot in St. Helena. Bruce shares the story of how a beach in Morocco sparked his passion for cooking, why he walked away from convention to build restaurants on his own terms, and what it’s been like launching a fine-dining concept in Napa Valley’s ever-evolving culinary landscape. With decades of experience and a clear creative vision, Bruce opens up about everything from Murano glassware to the challenges of earning loca...2025-06-1032 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastNick Kite & The Craftsman InnIn episode forty-seven of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew sits down with Nick Kite, the innkeeper behind The Craftsman Inn and Wine Way Inn in Calistoga. Originally from the UK, Nick shares how he and his wife Gillian left Silicon Valley for a lifestyle shift that led them to Napa Valley hospitality over two decades ago. With dry wit and deep experience, Nick offers a unique perspective on what it takes to run a successful inn—and what Calistoga needs to thrive as a destination.This episode is brought to you by Tastefuli, the go-to app fo...2025-06-0336 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastJoe Wołosz, Jeff Durham & Gentleman Farmer WinesIn episode forty-six of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew sits down with Jeff Durham and Joey Wolosz of Gentleman Farmer Wines in downtown Napa. They share the story of their journey from garage winemakers to creating a charming, community-focused tasting experience inside a beautifully restored 1926 California Craftsman bungalow. With deep Napa and Central Coast roots, Jeff and Joey bring decades of hospitality experience into a space that feels more like a home than a tasting room.The duo discusses how their background in hotels and restaurants shaped their unique, food-forward approach to wine tasting—where guests ar...2025-05-2731 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastJames Harder, Ed Feuchuk & Tank Garage WineryIn episode forty-five of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew sits down with James Harder and Ed Feuchuk from Tank Garage Winery in Calistoga. They share the unique origin story behind Tank Garage—a former gas station turned rebellious tasting room that breaks the mold of traditional Napa wineries. James and Ed discuss their journey from Alberta and Napa roots to operating both Tank Garage and James Cole Winery, all while embracing an unpretentious, edgy vibe that captures the spirit of California.They dive into what makes Tank Garage stand out, from its punk rock-inspired tasting room to...2025-05-2029 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastSamaria O'brien & Vigie LimoncelloIn episode forty-four of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew sits down with Samaria O'Brien, founder of Vigie Limoncello. Samaria shares how a cherished family recipe inspired her to craft an artisanal, all-natural limoncello right here in California. She walks us through the early days of Vigie—from hand-peeling organic lemons to designing a brand that channels the breezy spirit of Mediterranean summers.They also dive into what it means to be a female founder in the beverage space, the challenges of scaling an ultra-premium product, and how staying authentic to her roots has shaped Vigie's identity....2025-05-1325 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastChef Philip Tessier & PRESS Napa ValleyIn episode forty-three of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew sits down with Philip Tessier—renowned chef, restauranteur, and chef-partner at PRESS in St. Helena.Philip shares his inspiring journey from cooking family meals as a teenager in Virginia to earning Michelin stars and leading Team USA to its historic silver and gold wins at the prestigious Bocuse d'Or competition. He opens up about PRESS’s evolution into a Napa Valley institution, his vision for the future with the new Understudy project, and how he's building community and mentorship for the next generation of chefs. From international acco...2025-05-0629 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastChuck Matto & ChucksFlavorTrainIn episode forty-two of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew catches up with Chuck Matto—better known as Chuck’s Flavor Train.Chuck opens up about his journey from growing up in Browns Valley to becoming a beloved barbecue influencer, private chef, and soon-to-be cookbook author. He shares how a backyard passion turned into a full-time career, what it means to stay authentic in the world of brand sponsorships, and how food became his way of honoring his roots and connecting with others. From viral videos to winery dinners, Chuck’s story is a flavorful mix of hustle...2025-04-2227 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastJosh Phelps & Grounded Wine Co.In episode forty-one of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew sits down with Josh Phelps, the Saint Helena native behind Grounded Wine Co. Josh shares his journey from launching his first wine brand out of a college project to building a nationally distributed wine company that’s redefining the idea of an “affordable luxury” wine. From navigating retail partnerships with Target and Whole Foods to building community through outdoor lifestyle collaborations, Josh offers a candid look at what it takes to scale a modern wine brand.This episode is brought to you by Tastefuli, the go-to...2025-04-1125 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastFearon DeWeese, Juliana Folk & Napa Valley StreamFestIn episode forty of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew sits down with Fearon DeWeese and Juliana Folk, the visionary co-founders of Napa Valley StreamFest. They delve into the inspiration behind creating an immersive festival that celebrates podcasts, series, films, and social content, set to take place April 24-27, 2025, in Downtown Napa. This episode is brought to you by Tastefuli, the go-to app for planning your Napa Valley experience. Follow @NapaValleyInsiderPodcast and @tastefuli.napa for updates and behind-the-scenes content.For more information about Napa Valley StreamFest and to purchase tickets, visit napavalleystreamfest.com.2025-04-0833 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastVincenzo Loseto & Top Chef on BravoIn episode thirty-nine of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew sits down with Vincenzo Loseto, Chef de Cuisine at PRESS Restaurant in St. Helena. Vincenzo shares his culinary journey from fishing with family in Long Island to working in world-renowned kitchens like Eleven Madison Park—and now leading one of Napa Valley’s most celebrated restaurants. Currently starring on Bravo’s Top Chef, Vincenzo opens up about his creative process, PRESS’s evolution, and what it’s like to build a farm-to-table tasting menu that celebrates Napa’s unique growing seasons.Episode Highlights:From New York to Napa – Vi...2025-04-0118 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastNiccolo Cymbalist & ClippershipIn episode thirty-eight of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew sits down with Niccolo Cymbalist, CEO and founder of Clippership. Nicco shares his fascinating journey from growing up on a vineyard in Italy to working in Formula 1 and Tesla—ultimately launching a startup that’s rethinking maritime shipping from the hull up. Clippership is building fast, beautiful, wind-powered cargo vessels that aim to revolutionize transatlantic freight—starting with sustainably transporting European wine to the U.S.Episode Highlights:From Tesla to Transatlantic – How Nicco’s background in engineering and product development shaped Clippership’s vision and pace.Rethink...2025-03-2531 min
Wine Time Fridays Podcast257 - A Sip of Authenticity: Getting to Know Dineen Vineyards with Susan BrownIn todays episode, Shelley is unable to make it so Phil is flying solo while tasting through a delicious lineup of wines from Dineen Vineyards with Dineen General Manager, Susan Brown. This episode is a deep dive into all things at Dineen, with recently announced news, and Phil even misbehaves a little by throwing in some Dad jokes! #HappyFriday! #ItsWineTime! #Cheersing #RedVelvetCurtain *For full show notes, please visit our website.Wines this episode:2023 Dineen Vineyards Sémillon ($27 at the Winery)2022 Dineen Vineyards Cabernet Franc ($42 at the Winery)2021 Dineen Vineyards Cabernet Franc (No Lo...2025-03-211h 38
Napa Valley Insider PodcastNoah Friedman & Top Shelf VenturesIn episode thirty-seven of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew sits down with Noah Friedman, co-founder of Top Shelf Ventures and Uncharted. Noah shares his journey from working with Michael Loeb at a venture accelerator to launching a private equity and VC fund dedicated to the alcohol and vice industries. He dives into the challenges and opportunities in early-stage alcohol investing, the importance of velocity and retention in consumer brands, and why traditional Venture Capital has overlooked this massive market.Episode Highlights:Investing in Alcohol Startups – Why early-stage alcohol brands struggle to secure funding and how To...2025-03-1831 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastMorgaen Hoxsey Pickett & Ghost Block Estate WinesIn episode thirty-six of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew sits down with Morgaen Hoxsey, fifth-generation proprietor and Sales & Marketing Director for Ghost Block Estate Wines. Morgaen shares her family's impressive Napa Valley heritage, dating back to her great-great-grandfather Joseph Pelissa's arrival from Italy in 1903, and their journey from grape growers to successful vintners. She explores how her family business evolved, including their pioneering move into custom crush operations with Napa Wine Company, and the challenges and innovations that continue to shape their brands today.Episode Highlights:Generations of Grape Growing: Discover how the Pelissa family's...2025-03-1131 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastCharlie Wagner & Caymus-SuisunIn episode thirty-five of the Napa Valley Insider podcast, Andrew sits down with Charlie Wagner, fifth-generation Napa Valley vintner and a driving force behind the evolution of Caymus Vineyards. Charlie shares the Wagner family's rich history, from their early days homesteading in St. Helena to becoming one of the most recognized names in American wine. He discusses his role in expanding the family's winemaking legacy, his perspective on the evolving Napa Valley landscape, and how he's carrying the torch into the future.Episode Highlights:The Wagner Family Story: How Charlie’s ancestors shaped the Napa Valley wi...2025-03-0433 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastChef Darryl Bell & Stateline Road SmokehouseIn episode thirty-four of the Industry Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Darryl Bell, chef and owner of Stateline Road Smokehouse, Napa’s first Black-owned restaurant since the 1800s. Darryl shares his journey from growing up in Kansas City, learning to cook for his family at a young age, to honing his culinary skills in France and working under Thomas Keller before launching his own BBQ venture in Napa. He dives into his passion for elevating barbecue with fine dining techniques, his commitment to philanthropy, and how he's building a sustainable, community-focused business.Episode Highlights:From Ka...2025-02-2541 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastChris Hoel & Harper's ClubIn episode thirty-three of the Industry Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Chris Hoel, CEO and founder of Harper’s Club, a premier concierge wine advisory firm. Chris shares his journey from catching the wine bug in a Midwest poker game to working at The French Laundry and ultimately curating world-class wine collections for Hollywood elites and top-tier collectors. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at the high-stakes world of rare wines, the evolving wine industry, and what it takes to build a successful advisory business in Napa Valley.Episode Highlights:From Poker to Premier Wine Curation: Ho...2025-02-1834 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastKara Haspel Lind & Kara's CupcakesIn episode thirty-two of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Kara Haspel Lind, founder of Kara’s Cupcakes and Bar Lucia, two beloved staples in Napa. Kara shares her journey from the world of magazine publishing to becoming a celebrated entrepreneur in the food and wine industry. She dives into the challenges and triumphs of growing a business, navigating economic shifts, and creating spaces that bring people together.Episode Highlights:From Publishing to Pastry: How Kara transitioned from a career in advertising to launching one of the Bay Area’s most well-known dessert bran...2025-02-1126 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastPam Dillon & PreferabliIn episode thirty-one of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Pam Dillon, CEO and co-founder of Preferabli, to discuss a groundbreaking moment—Preferabli's acquisition of Cuvée. Pam shares her journey from Wall Street to the wine and spirits industry, how AI is transforming hospitality, and what this acquisition means for the future of personalized recommendations.Episode Highlights:From Finance to Wine Tech: Pam’s path from banking at Goldman Sachs to building an AI-driven platform for the alcohol industry.AI and Personalization: Why proprietary data is the key to AI-driven consumer experiences and h...2025-02-0432 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastErick Hernández & Napa County Fire DepartmentIn episode thirty of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Erick Hernandez, Deputy Fire Marshal for Napa County Fire Department. Erick shares his inspiring journey to Napa Valley, his passion for public safety, and the evolving strategies to protect the community from devastating wildfires.Episode Highlights:A Firefighter’s Journey: Learn how Erick’s life experiences and mentorship shaped his path to becoming a leader in Napa County’s fire prevention efforts.Preparedness Matters: Discover the essential steps Napa County residents can take to safeguard their homes and families, from creating defensible space to bui...2025-01-2833 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastChuck McMinn & Vineyard 29In episode twenty-nine of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Chuck McMinn, owner of Vineyard 29 and a passionate advocate for community development in Napa Valley. Chuck shares insights from his Silicon Valley journey to becoming a key figure in three impactful nonprofits: the Napa Valley Vine Trail, the Rail Arts District, and the St. Helena Hospital Foundation.Episode Highlights:From Tech to Terroir: Discover how Chuck transitioned from a groundbreaking Silicon Valley career to owning Vineyard 29 and fostering Napa’s wine culture.Building Napa’s Connectivity: Learn how the Vine Trail is connecting comm...2025-01-2127 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastMarc Hand & Highway 29 MediaIn episode twenty-eight of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Marc Hand, CEO of Hwy 29 Media, and head of the Napa Valley News Group, to discuss the essential role of local journalism in preserving Napa Valley’s stories and identity. From saving beloved community newspapers to launching bilingual initiatives, Marc shares his vision for sustaining trusted, hyperlocal news during challenging times.Episode Highlights:Saving Napa’s Papers: Hear how Marc led the effort to save the Yountville Sun and Calistoga Tribune, keeping critical local coverage alive.Why Local News Matters: Marc explains how reli...2024-12-1729 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastCameron Reynolds & Reynolds Family WineryIn episode twenty-seven of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Cameron Reynolds, second-generation vintner and national sales manager for Reynolds Family Winery, to explore the journey of growing up in Napa and taking on the family business. Cameron offers a rare glimpse into life behind the scenes at a boutique winery and shares insights on the challenges and triumphs of staying true to Napa’s roots.Episode Highlights:From Ranch to Winery: Cameron reflects on his childhood growing up on a former chicken farm and how his father transformed it into the iconic Re...2024-12-1128 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastErin Kirschenmann & Wine Business MonthlyIn episode twenty-six of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Erin Kirschenmann, Managing Editor of Wine Business Monthly, to discuss her fascinating journey from journalism to becoming a key voice in the wine industry. Erin shares her unique insights from the intersection of media and wine, shedding light on the current state and future of the industry.Episode Highlights:From Newsroom to Vineyard: Erin takes us through her path to Wine Business Monthly, starting with her early passion for journalism and a serendipitous leap into the wine world.Navigating Industry Trends: Learn about...2024-12-0330 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastLindsay Hoopes & Hoopes VineyardIn episode twenty-five of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Lindsay Hoopes, owner and CEO of Hoopes Vineyard, to discuss her inspiring journey from Napa Valley roots to leading a family-owned winery with a focus on sustainability and community impact. A passionate advocate for regenerative farming and small businesses, Lindsay shares her vision for a more inclusive and vibrant Napa Valley.Episode Highlights:Napa’s Evolution Through Lindsay’s Eyes: Hear Lindsay’s firsthand account of growing up in Napa, from her father’s early days in the wine industry to the region’s transfor...2024-11-2639 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastJess Lander & The San Francisco ChronicleIn episode twenty-four of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Jess Lander, a seasoned wine reporter and storyteller with the San Francisco Chronicle, who covers Napa Valley’s dynamic wine and hospitality industry. With nearly three years at the helm of wine reporting, Jess brings a unique perspective on industry trends, ethical journalism, and her journey from Boston to Napa’s wine scene.Episode Highlights:Navigating Journalism Ethics in Wine Media: Jess shares insights into maintaining integrity in an industry filled with perks, and how her role differs from typical wine publications.The Push...2024-11-1934 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastIan Dooley & Free Flow WinesIn episode twenty-three of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Ian Dooley, Business Development & Accounts lead at Free Flow Wines, who champions sustainable wine packaging through reusable keg systems. Ian’s expertise in sustainable practices and innovative packaging solutions offers a compelling look at how Napa wineries can reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing quality or consumer experience.Episode Highlights:Reducing Carbon Emissions Through Reusable Kegs: Ian explains how Free Flow Wines’ stainless-steel kegs cut down on packaging waste, providing a zero-waste solution for wineries.The Real Impact of Greenwashing: Learn how genuine sust...2024-11-1233 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastPam Reeves, Town of Yountville, Council MemberIn episode twenty-two of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Pam Reeves, longtime Yountville resident, business owner, and town council member. With over 40 years in the community, Pam brings a wealth of knowledge on Yountville’s growth, its unique culture, and her vision for a thriving, connected town.Watch the Yountville 2024 General Election ForumEpisode Highlights:Yountville’s Evolution and Community Spirit: Pam reflects on how Yountville has transformed over the decades, sharing stories of local icons and the town’s shift from a close-knit, youthful community to today’s demographic mix.Revi...2024-11-0534 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastMichael Cuffe & Social Media StrategyIn episode twenty-one of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Michael Cuffe, a seasoned photographer, filmmaker, and social media strategist whose artistry has shaped Napa Valley’s visual storytelling. Known for his work with brands like Visit Napa Valley, Michael uses his creative and technical expertise to capture compelling brand narratives, helping wineries stand out in a competitive market.Episode Highlights:Creating Impactful Visual Stories: Michael shares his approach to building captivating brand visuals, blending Napa’s beauty with digital storytelling. See his portfolio at michaelcuffe.com.Social Media Trends for Napa Brands: Lear...2024-10-2954 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastRachel Martin & Oceano WinesIn episode twenty of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Rachel Martin, founder and CEO of Oceano Wines. Rachel is a trailblazer in the wine industry, pioneering non-alcoholic and reduced-alcohol wines that cater to health-conscious consumers while maintaining artisanal quality. With a background that spans from managing her family’s vineyard in Virginia to launching her own premium wine brand, Rachel’s insights offer a fresh perspective on the evolving trends in the alcohol space.Episode Highlights:The Creation of Oceano Wines: Rachel shares the story of building Oceano Wines and her journey into...2024-10-2226 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastStevie Stacionis & Bay GrapeIn episode nineteen of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Stevie Stacionis, co-founder of Bay Grape wine shops, MAMA Oakland restaurant, and the Bâtonnage Forum for women in wine. Stevie is a visionary in the hospitality industry, dedicated to advancing sustainability, equity, and innovation. With her background in wine education and content creation, Stevie has impacted how wine is sold, experienced, and communicated across multiple platforms.Episode Highlights:The Creation of Bay Grape and MAMA Oakland: Learn how Stevie and her team built these celebrated hospitality brands with a focus on community a...2024-10-1633 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastMatthew Mills & Cornerstone CellarsIn episode eighteen of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Matthew Mills, Managing Director at Cornerstone Napa. With over 15 years of experience in sales management and direct-to-consumer (DTC) strategy, Matthew shares his expertise on driving growth for boutique wineries and creating standout wine club experiences. They also dive into the evolving DTC landscape and discuss how Napa wineries can stay innovative in a competitive market.Episode Highlights:Matthew’s Leadership in Napa: Learn about Matthew’s career journey, from wine sales to managing Cornerstone Napa, and how he’s helping shape the future of lux...2024-10-0841 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastGalen Becker Drace & Napa Valley Hospitality ForumIn episode seventeen of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, Andrew sits down with Galen Becker Drace, Executive Director of Napa Valley Hospitality Forum and co-founder of Turnkey DTC. Galen shares his unique journey into the Napa hospitality world and explores how wineries can deepen their connections with customers, offering valuable insights into the evolving direct-to-consumer (DTC) landscape. They also discuss the upcoming DTC Wine Symposium and what’s in store for the future of Napa Valley's wine industry.Episode Highlights:Galen’s Journey into Hospitality: Hear about Galen’s diverse career path and how he became a key...2024-10-0241 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastLinsey Gallagher & Visit Napa ValleyIn episode sixteen of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, we are joined by Linsey Gallagher, the President and CEO of Visit Napa Valley, an organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the region’s tourism economy. Linsey shares her inspiring career journey and provides insights into how Visit Napa Valley partners with local businesses to sustain and enhance Napa Valley's renowned hospitality.Episode Highlights:Linsey’s Career Path: Linsey walks us through her professional journey, from her beginnings in global business development to becoming the CEO of Visit Napa Valley, leading one of the most iconic tour...2024-09-2357 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastVincent Morrow & Press RestaurantIn episode fifteen of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, we are joined by Vincent Morrow, the esteemed Master Sommelier and Wine Director at Press Restaurant in Napa Valley. Vincent shares his journey from being a star athlete to becoming one of the most celebrated sommeliers in the world, highlighting his passion for wine education and commitment to diversifying the wine industry.Episode Highlights:Vincent’s Journey to Master Sommelier: Vincent takes us through his unique path to becoming a Master Sommelier before the age of 31, balancing rigorous wine studies with his roles at Michelin-starred restaurants....2024-09-0344 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastWhitney Diver McEvoy & Yountville Chamber of CommerceIn episode fourteen of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, we are joined by Whitney Diver McEvoy, the President and CEO of the Yountville Chamber of Commerce. Whitney shares her expertise on supporting local businesses in Napa Valley, discusses current business trends, and offers her top recommendations for visitors exploring the region.Episode Highlights:Supporting Local Business: Whitney dives into the various ways the Yountville Chamber of Commerce supports local businesses, from advocacy to networking opportunities. Discover how the Chamber plays a vital role in fostering a vibrant business community in Yountville and beyond....2024-08-2629 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastGinni Hill & Vine Trail Napa ValleyIn episode thirteen of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, we're thrilled to have Ginni Hill, the Development Director for the Vine Trail Napa Valley, join us. With the Grand Opening of the newest stretch of the Vine Trail from St. Helena to Calistoga happening on August 17 at 8:00 am, Ginni shares her insights on the project's impact on the community and the future of sustainable transportation in Napa Valley.Episode Highlights:The Vision Behind the Vine Trail: Ginni explains the Vine Trail's origins and goals, explaining how this extensive pathway is designed to connect communities and...2024-08-1335 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastMichael Wyckoff & WineNapkinsIn episode twelve of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, we are excited to welcome Michael Wyckoff, one of the creative minds behind the popular WineNapkins Instagram account. Together with his two friends, Carson Becker and Luke Sherman, Michael explores and reviews the vibrant food and wine scene in Napa Valley, sharing their experiences with a growing online community.Episode Highlights:The Birth of WineNapkins: Michael recounts the journey of how the WineNapkins Instagram account was created, from casual outings with friends to becoming a trusted source of recommendations for food and wine lovers....2024-08-0529 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastKira Ballotta: Olivia Brion & Cantadora WinesIn episode eleven of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Kira Ballotta, the owner and winemaker of Olivia Brion and Cantadora Wines, who brings a wealth of experience and passion to the table.Episode Highlights:From Wall Street to Winemaking: Kira shares her inspiring journey transitioning from a successful career on Wall Street to following her passion for winemaking, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way.The Current State of the Wine Industry: Gain insights into the ever-evolving wine industry as Kira discusses current trends, market shifts, and...2024-07-3040 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastJared Kimball & Napa Valley AloftIn episode ten of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, we are delighted to welcome Jared Kimball, the owner of Napa Valley Aloft, the premier hot air balloon company in the region.Episode Highlights:The Family Journey into Hot Air Balloons: Jared shares how his family ventured into the hot air balloon industry, turning a passion into a successful business.Current Trends in Napa Valley: Learn about the latest trends in Napa Valley from Jared’s unique perspective as a local business owner and long-time resident.Are Hot Air Balloons Safe?: Jared ad...2024-07-2325 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastMackenzie Magro & Napa Valley Bike ToursIn episode nine of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Mackenzie Magro, the dynamic Operations Director at Napa Valley Bike Tours. Episode Highlights:The Birth of Napa Valley Bike Tours: Discover how NVBT's owner Brad Dropping's personal tour experience sparked the creation of Napa Valley Bike Tours, now a beloved activity for both locals and tourists.Post-Covid Trends: Gain insights from Mackenzie on the significant shifts and trends she has noticed in Napa Valley's tourism landscape since the pandemic.Future of Napa Valley Tourism: Hear Mackenzie's thoughts on innovative strategies and initiatives...2024-07-1525 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastPaige Comrie & Wine With PaigeIn episode eight of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, we're excited to welcome Paige Comrie, the engaging voice behind the popular Instagram account @winewithpaige. Paige shares her journey into the world of wine, her thoughts on how the wine industry can improve, and the power of storytelling in connecting with wine enthusiasts.Episode Highlights:Paige's Wine Journey: Learn about Paige's path from working in the fashion industry to being an influential wine content creator and how her passion has driven her career.Industry Insights: Hear Paige's perspective on how the wine industry can...2024-07-0829 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastDrew Dickson & Napa Valley PaddleIn episode seven of the Napa Valley Insider Podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Drew Dickson, the enthusiastic owner of Napa Valley Paddle. Drew shares his journey from adventure seeker to becoming a pivotal figure in Napa's outdoor recreational scene. He discusses the evolution of Napa Valley Paddle and the river restoration's positive impact on tourism.Episode Highlights:Entrepreneurial Spirit: Discover Drew’s path from outdoor enthusiast to business owner in the heart of Napa.Napa from the River: Gain insights into the unique perspective of Napa Valley seen from its waterways and why this view should no...2024-07-0137 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastElton Slone & Robert Craig WineryIn our sixth episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Elton Slone, the owner of Robert Craig Winery in Napa. Elton shares his inspiring journey in the wine industry, detailing how he became the owner of Robert Craig Winery. He offers his perspectives on the current state of the Napa wine industry and provides insights on how wineries can adapt to cater to a new generation of wine enthusiasts.Episode Highlights:Personal Journey: Discover how Elton’s path led him to become the owner of Robert Craig Winery.Industry Insights: Gain a de...2024-06-2432 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastNathan Davis & Napa Valley Wine TrainIn our fifth episode, we sit down with Nathan Davis, General Manager of the Napa Valley Wine Train. Nate shares his personal journey through the hospitality industry, the storied history of the Napa Valley Wine Train, and his thoughts on the state of Napa Valley tourism.Episode Highlights:Personal Journey: Learn how Nate's career path led him to the Napa Valley Wine Train.Historic Insights: Explore the rich history of the Napa Valley Wine Train and its significance in the region. Tourism Trends: Gain insights into current trends and the future...2024-06-1728 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastAndrew Mazotti & Napa Valley Car ClubIn our fourth episode, we chat with Andrew Mazotti, founder of the Napa Valley Car Club. Andrew shares his journey of combining his passion for cars with Napa Valley's scenic beauty, offering unique experiences to both locals and tourists.Episode Highlights:Personal Journey: Discover how Andrew transitioned from real estate development to launching Napa Valley Car Club.Industry Insights: Learn about the innovative blend of car rentals and club memberships, catering to corporate events and individual enthusiasts.Community Impact: Hear about the upcoming Napa Valley Car Weekend and how it aims to integrate motorsports with fashion...2024-06-1028 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastKatie Hamilton Shaffer & Cookbook Fest In our third episode, we chat with Katie Hamilton Shaffer, founder of Feast it Forward and the Feast Network. Katie shares her unique career journey, blending her passions for culinary arts, music, and philanthropy into a vibrant lifestyle brand in Napa Valley.Episode Highlights:Personal Journey: Discover how Katie transitioned from soccer and singing to founding a culinary and entertainment network.Industry Insights: Learn about the innovative experiences offered by Feast it Forward, from live chef demonstrations to intimate concerts.Community Impact: Hear about the initiatives supporting charitable causes through engaging events and culinary showcases....2024-06-1026 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastKristi Devine & Becoming a Winery GMIn our second episode, we sit down with Kristi Devine, the General Manager at The Vineyardist in Calistoga. Kristi shares her extensive experience and valuable insights into the wine industry, offering listeners an inside look at Napa Valley's dynamic landscape.Episode Highlights:Personal Journey: Explore Kristi's inspiring career path, from starting in Sonoma County to becoming a key figure in Napa Valley.Industry Insights: Gain knowledge about the evolving wine industry, including the importance of adapting to new consumer expectations and the need for innovation.Community Impact: Discover how personalized customer experiences and diverse events are...2024-06-1024 min
Napa Valley Insider PodcastSanho & BottleRockJoin us on the Napa Valley Insider Podcast as Sanho shares his journey and insider knowledge about Napa Valley's wine and hospitality scene. Tune in for inspiring stories and expert insights!Episode Highlights:Personal Journey: Discover Sanho's inspiring journey and how he became a key player in Napa Valley.Industry Insights: Gain valuable knowledge about the local wine and hospitality industries from an insider's perspective.Community Impact: Learn about the initiatives and projects that are making a positive impact in our community.Whether you're a long-time resident or a visitor eager to learn more about...2024-06-1014 min