Truth In This Art Podcast - Conversations on Arts, Culture, and Community

Welcome to 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, hosted by Rob Lee, Engage in this meaningful conversation with Shaun Stewart, a distinguished libations curator and master of mixology, currently serving as the bar manager and craft cocktail extraordinaire at JBGBs. With an impressive career spanning over 15 years, Shaun's expertise shines as he intricately crafts balanced and visually captivating cocktails that push the boundaries of innovation. Notably, his impact has been felt at esteemed establishments like The Elk Room, where he earned acclaim for creating two exceptional menus featuring specialty drinks, seasonal sangria, and a groundbreaking bottled cocktail program, propelling the venue's recognition as one of Esquire magazine's top 25 bars. A true luminary in the field, Shaun's achievements extend to his role as a Bartender's Guild member and a multi-year participant in the prestigious Ryes Up competition. His mastery also graced Gunther & Co. and Bar Liquorice, both celebrated for their transformative bar programs, earning Bar Liquorice the accolade of "Best New Bar 2014" from City Paper and "Best New Neighborhood Bar 2015" from Baltimore Magazine, solidifying Shaun's status as a trendsetting force in the world of mixology. Furthermore, Shaun's prowess led him to become a finalist for Glennfiddich Experimental Bartender of the Year and compete in the esteemed Bacardi Legacy competition, showcasing his enduring commitment to pushing the boundaries of cocktail artistry.

In this talk, we navigate through:

• The artistry behind the perfect cocktail, diving into the intricacies of balance and flavor that Shaun Stewart, our esteemed guest, expertly crafts to tantalize the taste buds.
• Join us as we delve into Shaun's philosophy of perpetual growth and exploration, as he shares his insights on the transformative power of pushing boundaries and embracing change to avoid the trap of creative stagnation.
• Discover the captivating fusion of mixology and nostalgia at JBGBs through an exploration of their wrestling-themed cocktail menu, delving into how Shaun's innovative approach elevates the guest experience with a playful twist.
• Tune in for an engaging conversation as Shaun Stewart unveils his ultimate dream drink companion, Danhausen, a charismatic wrestler celebrated for his distinctive character and remarkable brand-building acumen, offering a glimpse into the exciting realm of cross-industry collaborations.

Don't miss this incredible episode as Shaun shares his journey in the industry, from starting as a bartender to becoming a craft cocktail specialist. He discusses the importance of balance in cocktails and the need for them to complement the food they are paired with. Shaun also talks about his love for pushing himself and constantly trying new things to keep the joy in his work. He shares some of the popular cocktails at Jbgb's, including the Chicago Pearl and Jarif's Crystal Ball Crystal. The conversation also touches on Shaun's passion for wrestling and his dream of having a drink with Danhausen, a wrestler known for his unique character.

Mentioned in this episode
JBGB's

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This program is supported (in part) by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation.

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Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard.

Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art.

About "The Truth In This Art"

"The Truth In This Art," hosted by Rob Lee, is a podcast that explores the essence of creativity and its community impact, amplifying artists' voices and their profound stories.

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