The Manual Podcast

In addition to being an award-winning New York chef and author, known for incredible Spanish cuisine, Seamus Mullen happens to also be a really cool person. His back story regarding the eating changes he needed to make to essentially save his own life, is bot fascinating and inspiring. In this episode he also shares some great advice on how to examine what you're eating, and the effects it may be having on you, that you don't even know. It's a great interview!

Over the last few years, Sour Beer has become tremendously popular. We're joined by Kevin Martin to discuss his interesting route to becoming the Director of Brewery Operations at Cascade Brewing. We'll also uncover what exactly it takes to create a Sour Beer, how to tell the difference between a good one and a bad one, and what kind ingredients can go into them. Whether you're brand new to Sour Beers, or just want to learn about them, there is something for everyone in this episode. 

Tequila is a passion for many people, but Jose 'Pepe' Hermsollo's entire life has been shaped by it. On today's episode, the founder of Casa Noble Tequila talks about his family's storied history in farming agave, the formation of his world famous brand, the different styles of tequila and expressions, and much more. It's an enlightening conversation with an incredible entrepreneur and tequila savant, that will absolutely leave you wanting a nice refreshing glass of añejo!

Sam and Greg were joined by David Savona, the Executive Editor of Cigar Aficionado to talk about all things, you guessed it, Cigars! We cover some terminology, what to look for when buying cigars, and what the traits are of fine craftsmanship. David is a wealth of knowledge and we think that no matter what level you are at in enjoying cigars, you'll definitely learn something. Also be sure to check out Cigar Aficionado for great articles, reviews and education on a myriad of topics.

Let's face it, a lot of us need help when it comes to designing and decorating our living spaces. We brought in some expert help with Kelsey Machado to walk us through some easy ways to make our places more stylish! From simple use of plants, to a splash of color, to something more in depth like an indoor patio, she has great advice for everyone.

Parker Hall of The Manual's brother company Digital Trends, is not only a great writer, but also a big time home brewer. From his humble origins of starting with his own brother in the kitchen, to winning awards at competitions, he's a wealth of information. We'll cover what you'll need to get started, what kind of malt you should use, extract vs mash, and all kinds of other valuable tips.

The long awaited day has arrived, this is our live recording from the 2018 Portland Podcast Festival! Jake, Sam, Nicole, and Greg were all at the Landmark Saloon on chilly November night in front of a live audience. It was rowdy, it was loud, and many boilermakers were consumed. Thanks to everyone who showed up to support us and thanks to the Portland Podcast Festival for having us on!

One of the stars of Top Chef, the talented and charismatic Isaac Toups joined us today, to discuss Cajun Cuisine! You'll find out about his upbringing in New Orleans and where his influences came from. We'll discuss everything from the differences between Cajun and Creole, his great restaurants, what it was like on Top Chef, working with Emeril Lagasse, and even what he hunts for in the Delta. Very fun episode, although you will definitely be hungry after listening to it! 

Mike Richard is a contributor to The Manual and an expert on all things travel. On this episode he walks us through how he discovered his love of traveling and started his site, Vagabondish. Just as important he let's us know about the things you should/shouldn't do. Want to know the secrets to finding the best price on a plane ticket, or how to get through airport lines way faster than anyone else? Mike will fill you in on all the details.

How do you throw an amazing party? We have one of the world's foremost experts on today, in Bronson Van Wyck! Having his first real event written up in Vogue magazine, helped launch his incredible career. Bronson will talk about some of the best tips and tricks that he has learned and dispenses some wonderful advice that you can take advantage of for your next big event.

We live in a magical time, when it comes to beers! Today we're joined by Lee Heidel of Brew, Drink, Run, and a frequent contributor to The Manual, to talk about beer trends. We'll revisit 2018 and talk about the New England IPAs, Hazy IPAs, Sour beers and the trends of localized breweries. Then we'll turn to 2019 for some well-educated predictions, from Lee. Have you ever thought about cocktail-inspired beers? You may need to get ready for them. You'll also definitely want a beer after this episode!

Southeast Alaska is one of the most beautiful parts of North America, yet it remains relatively unknown, compared the rest of the state. We'll give you two different ways to see this magical land, one via Chase and Waterfall Resort. This remote hotel isn't a traditional 'resort', but the location, scenery, and fishing are unmatched. Greg took a bit more of a leisurely trip, via a cruise. The cities of Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway were the highlights, with specific recommendations for each location.

Levi Martinez is a 4th generation leather worker, and one of the owners of Orox Leather, out of Portland, Oregon. He joins the show to discuss the origins of their company, the different types of leather that are available, how it gets to them and what they make with it. You'll also learn how to spot fake leather and what item everyone should own. It's a great interview!

Greg Nibler went out to the Portland International Speedway, to interview Mario Andretti! Mario discusses the origins of his love of racing, returning to the Grand Prix of Portland, some of the obstacles he's overcome, and what it's like building a successful IndyCar team with his family.

Whole animal cooking is a fascinating process, that few of us know the details about. It is by far one of the best ways to make sure nothing goes to waste on an animal and our guest today is the Executive Chef at The Cannibal, Ryan Skeen. Ryan walks us through the cuisine they serve, where they source their animals and some of the ways they prepare the different parts they serve.