It Starts with Whiskey  Podcast

Welcome to “It Starts with Whiskey” – the podcast where every conversation begins with a sip of whiskey and takes us on a journey through the diverse landscapes of life. Together, we’ll embark on an adventure filled with “spirited” discussions, fueled by our love for whiskey and ignited by our passion for exploring the world around us.

From the local streets of Grand Rapids to the beaches of Cancun, join us as we share our tales of travels and the unique experiences we’ve encountered along the way. But our journey doesn’t stop there. We’ll dive deep into the flavors of culture, exploring the rich tapestry of cuisines that tantalize our taste buds and ignite our senses.

And of course, no conversation is off-limits. From thought-provoking debates to lighthearted banter, expect a healthy dose of controversy as we navigate through the complexities of life.

So grab your favorite glass, pour yourself a dram, and join us on “It Starts with Whiskey,” where every episode is an adventure waiting to unfold.

Your Hosts

Meet Ryan, the happily married, former beat-dropping DJ turned Industrial Systems Engineering maestro from Ohio State, who now orchestrates the rhythm of a family-owned business in West Michigan. This proud parent cheers on two amazing college kids, spinning life’s tracks with the same flair used to put himself through college. When not fine-tuning the operations of the family enterprise, Ryan globe-trots, meeting new people with the same enthusiasm for exploring cultures as for savoring the world’s finest Whiskeys and Bourbons. Ryan’s life is a masterful blend of dedication, adventure, and a touch of spirits, proving the best mixologists aren’t just found behind the bar but can sometimes be leading the family business and crafting unforgettable family moments.

Thee is a busy middle-aged woman who enjoys good whiskey, mostly bourbon. She has a full-time career as an HR professional in organizational learning and development. She has been happily committed to the same woman for nearly 24 years, and they have a wonderful child who just turned 21 in January of 2024. They own a beautiful home in Grand Rapids, MI, and enjoy spending time in their 26-foot bunkhouse travel trailer. Thee has a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and a master’s in HR Management. Thee has translated her love of learning to her love of tasting whiskey. She is not a collector but rather enjoys tasting and discussing whiskey with her friends. 

Jo, the unstoppable force in her fabulous forties, effortlessly dominates the professional arena with a humor so infectious even the stoic can’t resist a smile. A true partner-in-crime, she’s the mastermind behind turning mundane days into uproarious comedy shows, all while radiating happiness like a seasoned pro. Living her best life means sipping on the good stuff while navigating the twists and turns of work and play – cheers to this bourbon-loving, career-crushing, joy-spreading dynamo!

Start Listening Today!

Join us wherever you get your podcasts. Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, and coming soon on YouTube.