Billy Weathers is bringing community to both the music scene and the cocktail scene of Des Moines, Iowa. He opened The Contrary just over a year ago after visiting craft bars in places like Chicago and San Diego, and decided his town deserved something like that. His vision has just earned the space a James Beard semi-finalist spot for best new bar. Billy also performs hip hop as B. Well, and continues to play a part in supporting local music and art, determined to bring the citizens of his town more culture to enjoy. Check out Billy's Listening Hour (and some of his music too!) here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3rB2vS8wPLh3OVGQKawpCl?si=9VzTZ9TySTyBLfaKxFI45A

Abigail Gullo, who you can find leading the program at New Orleans spot Loa, kicked off her bartending career in her native New York, where she trained (and drank) under some of the masters of the mid aughts. After honing her skills at Fort Defiance, she realized her other career onstage acting and singing was possibly behind her (although she's still ready of the opportunity arises!). She made her way to New Orleans, where she landed at the Commander's Palace family and moved to the award winning Compere Lapin, picking up several accolades along the way for herself. Check out this playlist of the songs she sings along to behind the bar: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5XLX1r8vpWOaNs52gYefs7?si=COmBvRThTEGAfcmxXI7uVQ

Charlie Lehmann & Cosmo Soto bartended in a variety of Sydney, Australia spots (from local dives to crafty speakeasies) before they had the opportunity to become owners of two music centric cocktail joints: Ramblin' Rascal Tavern and Double Deuce Lounge. They became the top selling spot for cognac in the country while also providing live tunes to their community, certainly haven't shied away from having some cheeky fun with their drinks, and provide some of the best playlists in town. There are many colorful characters in both the Aussie music and booze scene, and these two have some great stories about that and more! Then check out their Ramblin' Deuce playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1MBVg6ZQwU9xSmffOvvD5E?si=SVqU1sViQOKGRkK3GZFSDQ