The Swirl Suite

This week on The Swirl Suite, Sarita sits down with Kendall Anderson, a former football player turned Virginia winemaker whos redefining what it means to follow your passion.  In this episode, Kendall opens up about his unexpected journey from the world of sports to the art of winemaking. Youll hear how he fell in love with Virginia wine, the challenges he faced breaking into the industry, and what it means to represent a new wave of winemakers pushing the region forward. https://www.instagram.com/ka_dajuiceman/ The Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

This week on The Swirl Suite, Sarita sits down with wine professional Marissa Knodel for a lively and honest conversation about wine etiquette whats still relevant, whats outdated, and how to navigate wine culture with confidence and grace. From the small taste before pouring to gifting bottles at dinner parties, Marissa shares her insider service perspective and gives listeners practical (and funny) ways to handle tricky wine moments without feeling intimidated. Whether youre a sommelier, a dinner host, or the friend who always brings the wine, this episode will help you sip smarter and stress less.Symphony Vines de Noirehttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/symphony-vins-de-noire-tickets-1616993343619?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf16WVPRV-Gg4CDcaPl_6q8HQ-ISiyRsDjOpptOq72KJlyGI5OZx31oOZVL_Q_aem_TUKRWiuDjW8sr5i_7jKs-gEmail: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

This week on the Swirl Suite, we sit down with Tammy Gordon, Washington, DCbased public relations consultant and co-founder of Vin Vitalit, a growing community of women in wine. With a background that includes being a spokesperson for the Office of Champagne, advising Black Wine Professionals, and holding a WSET Level 2 certification (while proudly dodging Level 3), Tammy brings a sharp, honest perspective on how the wine industry can become more accessible, inclusive, and media-savvy. We talk about her journey into wine, founding Women in Wine DC, her love of womens sports, and how the wine world can learn a thing or two from the rise of visibility in womens athletics. Plus, Tammy shares what PR strategies wine professionals often miss, and how we can better engage diverse audiences. Follow Tammy on Instagram @tammygordon for her takes on food, wine, travel, and sports.The Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

As we prepare to wrap up The Swirl Suite at the end of this year, each remaining episode is a celebration of the voices, stories, and passions that have shaped our wine world. This week, Sarita sits down with Loris, a sommelier and actor, whose charisma, hustle, and creative perspective have made waves in the wine space and beyond. In this episode, we talk about: The intersection of wine and performance Loriss journey as both a sommelier and actor and what came first Building a personal brand that blends wine, storytelling, and lifestyle Fried vs roasted chicken (yes, we went there) Travel, taste, and Loriss take on wine education Celebrity wine. Do they belong here? Plus: rapid-fire This or That questions, honest takes on wine trends, and reflections on what it means to show up in the wine world as your full self.https://www.instagram.com/loristhesomm/The Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

This week on the Swirl Suite, we welcome back travel expert, physician, and wine enthusiast Dr. Nadeen White, the dynamic force behind The Sophisticated Life and Culinary Travels. Nadeen joins us to share how her love of travel, culture, and cuisine fuels her storytelling, from sipping wine in South Africa to indulging in street food across Asia.https://drnadeenwhite.com/https://www.instagram.com/culinarytravels_thesophislife/The Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

In this episode of the Swirl Suite, we welcome Elaine Chukan Brownwriter, speaker, educator, and the creative force behind the Wine, Library series. Known for their poetic storytelling and deep-rooted respect for land and people, Elaine shares the journey behind the debut volume, The Wines of California. We dive into the richness of Californias wine regions beyond the headlines, exploring the growers, the climate, the cultural threads, and the complex histories that shape the glass. From Mendocino to Santa Barbara, this episode is an invitation to look at wine not just as a beverage, but as a living archive of community, geography, and intention.https://www.instagram.com/hawk_wakawaka/The Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Join our Patreon to watch the full episode! https://www.patreon.com/posts/wines-of-with-133657113?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_linkSocial Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

This week on the Swirl Suite, we dive into the gritty and hilarious realities of the craft beer world with special guest Kelly Meyer, author of "How NOT to Start a Damn Brewery: Ten Business Lessons From the Front Lines of the Craft Beer Industry." A former brewery owner turned brutally honest storyteller, Kelly shares his hard-earned wisdom, epic missteps, and the behind-the-scenes chaos most people never see in the beer business. From passion projects gone wrong to the lessons every beverage entrepreneur needs to hear, Kelly gets candid about what really happens when the beer dreams meet business reality. If youve ever considered starting your own beverage brandor just love an honest conversation over a cold drink, this ones for you.https://www.amazon.com/How-NOT-Start-Damn-Brewery/dp/B09MGKQ88Y/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.uAKS30JPMbhr6pque7P4VusgYLuZxffnjpSPJ84YiWjGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.QHOmUFcgx6KwKR1XXOYzk3VjDyzyV7QXS-jSJ8JkeHg&dib_tag=se&qid=1750788751&refinements=p_27%3Akelly+kfm+Meyer&s=books&sr=1-1The Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Juneteenth with Chrishon of Love Cork Screw was unforgettable. We celebrated Blackness with every sip, every bite, and every storywine, food, and freedom the perfect trio.https://thelampley.com/Watch live on Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/posts/swirl-suite-live-132207113?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_linkThe Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

In this episode of the Swirl Suite, we're honored to sit down with Niki and Aly Wente, fifth-generation members of the iconic Wente Family Vineyards, Americas oldest continuously operated family-owned winery. As cousins, collaborators, and changemakers, Niki and Aly bring fresh perspectives to a legacy brand while staying grounded in over 140 years of winemaking history.https://wentevineyards.com/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wine-sisters-book-club/id1792737894The Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

In this episode of the Swirl Suite, we sit down with the powerhouse behind Love Cork Screw, Chrishon Lampley. From art curator to wine mogul, Chrishon walks us through the many pivots of her inspiring career in wine and sales. We talk about what it takes to build a brand from scratch, maintain momentum in a competitive industry, and the strategic moves that landed her wine bottles on shelves in major retail stores across the country. Chrishon opens up about the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, her evolution as a businesswoman, and how she continues to disrupt the wine industry as a Black woman creating space for herself and others at the table.https://www.instagram.com/lovecorkscrew/ Meet Chrishon and Swirl Suite on Juneteenthhttps://thewineconcierge.co/products/juneteenth-wine-tasting-podcast-with-chrishon-lampley Join our Patreonpatreon.com/TheSwirlSuiteThe Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

In this special episode, the Swirl Suite welcomes back long-time friend and returning guest Tuanni Price. Tuanni shares insights into the upcoming Afro Wine Week South Africa, a transformative event aimed at creating wealth, inclusion, and opportunity for people of color in the global wine industry.Connect with Tuanni Price Instagram: @zuriwinetasting Afro Wine Week Website: afrowineweek.comSwirl Suite Juneteenth Rooftop Tasting with Chrishon Lampleyhttps://thewineconcierge.co/products/juneteenth-wine-tasting-podcast-with-chrishon-lampley The Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

In this episode of Swirl Suite, we sit down with Randi Brady, founder of Diversified Vines, a unique platform blending the worlds of hip-hop and wine. Randi, a WSET-certified wine enthusiast, shares how her passion for music, food and wine led to the creation of experiences that make wine education more inclusive, approachable, and culturally connected. From curating wine events with hip-hop storytelling, Randi is redefining how people engage with wine. https://www.diversifiedvines.com/https://www.instagram.com/diversifiedvines/Join our Patreon to watch the episode:https://www.patreon.com/posts/hip-hop-wine-of-125717890?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link The Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Lisa Lee, originally from the Washington D.C. area, believes that meals connect people and that there is nothing more sacred than the time spent around a table with those you love. Lee has been a student of hospitality for over a decade. Engulfing herself in education and the science behind every decision made in restaurants has prepared her for the moment that was coming. After deciding that she wanted to formally study wine, Lee completed The Wine and Spirits Education Trusts wine programs 1-3, awarded with merit, within a single year. Once finished, Lee realized that where she wanted to work did not exist here in Myrtle Beach. After a few experiences in other establishments, Lee realized that if she wanted something to be done well, she was going to have to create it. Not wanting to relocate, Lee began to create the concept that would become The Tasting Room. A high end space with impeccable service, while being inclusive and inviting, does not find its home easily. Eventually, The Tasting Room decided on a lease within a downtown neighborhood that feels as though it was always meant to be. The newly envisioned Downtown Myrtle Beach area of The Art and Innovation District is the perfect location and home for a concept made for this exact community. https://thetastingroomon9th.com/Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Join our Patreon to watch the full episodes:https://www.patreon.com/posts/lisa-lee-of-room-125500318?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Christi Dorsey is the Founder of Taste Symmetry Consulting, a boutique consulting company specializing in nutrition analysis, food labeling, and regulatory support for small food businesses. With her tailored consulting services, she helps entrepreneurs turn their concepts into shelf-ready products and ensures that they meet all necessary food safety standards. Her expertise covers everything from concept validation to packaging, branding, and market positioning, making her a valuable partner for businesses at any stage of development and her goal is to empower businesses to thrive in todays competitive food industry landscape.https://www.tastesymmetry.com/Watch the full episode on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/posts/from-receipe-to-125362655?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_linkThe Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass 

Janet Cam is best known as the founder and co-proprietor of LePavillon restaurant, thefirst nouvelle cuisine restaurant in America, honored with The Wine Spectators GrandAward. She was the Managing Director of the legendary Lutce in New Yorkorchestrating the renovation and revival of the iconic French restaurant. She is includedin Whos Who in Americas Restaurants. Janet Cam provides consulting services torestaurant and hospitality businesses through a collaborative process to build profitableventures from the ground up and redevelops existing businesses into fresh, competitiveoperations with a focus on wine and beverage programs. Janet currently serves on the Smithsonian National Museum of American Historys Kitchen Cabinet, an advisory board made up of leaders in food scholarship and culinary history to help the museum shape and expand its research, collections, programs, and exhibitions related to food and beverage history. She is a former judge for the James Beard Foundation Awards and a longstanding member of Les Dames dEscoffier (Washington, DC, Los Angeles and New York). Janet has mentored hospitality students on their Capstone Projects for Georgetown University and University of Maryland relating to Chinese restaurants. Conducting wine tastings for public and private clients, restaurants, as well as the Hill Center in Washington, DC she seamlessly pairs food and wine with a specialty in European wines and Asian food. WSET II with Distinction. In country studies for wine and food of (Burgundy, Loire, Champagne, Mosel, Rhine, Kamptal, Piemonte, Spain). In country focus on cuisines of Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, Suzhou and Bangkok.Janet has been invited to create the first wine program for the University of Marylandto launch in 2025.Watch the full episode on Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/posts/paving-way-janet-125293066?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link The Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

In this episode of the Swirl Suite Podcast, we welcome Tish Around Town, a dynamic travel and wine enthusiast who curates unforgettable experiences centered around wine, food, and culture. From hosting immersive wine events to leading global travel adventures, Tish shares her journey, insights, and tips for those looking to explore the world through a flavorful lens.https://tisharoundtown.com/Join our Patreon to watch the full episode:https://www.patreon.com/posts/exploring-wine-124768351?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_linkWine Organizationshttps://theveraisonproject.com/https://www.wineunify.org/https://www.therootsfund.org/https://winetrailsandwanderlust.com/2024/10/25/welcome-to-the-oneoverse/https://www.instagram.com/womenofwinedc/?hl=enhttps://www.batonnageforum.com/The Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

DC native Justin Trabue of Ward Four Wines joins us for an incredible conversation about her journey as a new winemaker. We dive into how she's preparing for harvest, navigating challenges in the industry, and the potential impact of tariffs. This is a must-watch for wine lovers and industry insiders alike! https://www.wardfourwines.com/  Join our Patreon to watch the full episode now! https://www.patreon.com/posts/justin-trabue-of-124228825?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_linkThe Winemakers Playbook Event https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winemakers-playbook-harvesting-financial-business-strategies-tickets-1250300736159?aff=oddtdtcreatorThe Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

In this powerful and timely episode of Swirl Suite, we sit down with Ikimi Dubose Woodson, co-founder and executive director of The Roots Fund, to have a candid conversation about the evolving landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the wine industry. With increasing backlash and companies pulling back on DEI initiatives, we ask the tough question Is DEI dead?Ikimi shares how these shifts are directly impacting The Roots Fund and the vital work they do to support and uplift BIPOC talent in wine. We also dig into how the broader wine industry is responding (or failing to respond) to the changing tides, and what this all means for the future of equitable access and representation in wine.This is an unfiltered discussion about accountability, real change, and what happens when companies use DEI as a buzzword instead of a commitment.Learn more about The Roots Fund: https://www.therootsfund.orgFollow Ikimi Dubose Woodson on Instagram: @therootsfundThe Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

In this special episode of the Swirl Suite, Tanisha sits down with the brilliant minds behind Ros Revolution, authors Rasmus Emborg and Jens Honor. Together, they explore how ros has evolved from a seasonal afterthought to a global phenomenon with cultural influence far beyond the bottle. From Provence to pool parties, this conversation uncorks the history, innovation, and passion fueling the pink wine movement.https://www.amazon.com/Ros%C3%A9-Revolution-Rasmus-Emborg/dp/1623716624The Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

In this special episode of Swirl Suite, were welcoming back a true friend of the podcastNicole Kearney, founder and winemaker of Sip & Share Wines. Nicole has been blazing trails in the wine industry for years, creating handcrafted, boutique wines with community and inclusivity at the heart of her brand.Together, we dive into the realities of running a Black-owned wine business, the legacy of Black winemakers in the industry, and the importance of holding the door open for the next generation. Of course, we also have a good ol kikibecause whats a Swirl Suite episode without some laughs and real talk?In This Episode, We Discuss: Nicoles journey from writer to winemaker Building an inclusive wine brand that reflects community The Black legacy in winepast, present, and future The ups, downs, and lessons of entrepreneurship in winehttps://sipandsharewines.comThe Winemakers Playbook:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winemakers-playbook-harvesting-financial-business-strategies-tickets-1250300736159Sponsor: https://tornabenewine.com/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAt4C-BhBcEiwA8Kp0CcgLGwmwhbfxzus1T9C5ned5icyNPb8EVh1eFWQq0lcv4gl3XDR_ZRoC1XEQAvD_BwEThe Swirl Suite Podcast Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuiteSarita @VineMeUpLeslie @TheWineConciergeClubGlynis @Vino_NoireTanisha @GirlMeetsGlass