The Post Shift Podcast, Your Hospitality Podcast

By Shawn Soole

Hosted by veteran bartender and industry consultant Shawn Soole, the Post Shift Podcast dives deep into the world of hospitality. With a passion for storytelling and a wealth of knowledge, Shawn brings listeners behind the bar and into the minds of industry leaders. Each episode unpacks the trials, triumphs, and transformations of hospitality professionals, offering insights, strategies, and candid conversations. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, the Post Shift Podcast delivers valuable lessons and inspiring stories to help you in your career.

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Episode #6 - Dave Mitton, Canadian Whisky and Toronto's Cocktail Scene

The Post Shift Podcast, Your Hospitality Podcast Feb 15, 2019

00:00

01:05:13

Episode #182 - Simone Caporale, SIPS Barcelona

In this episode, I chat to Simone Caporale of SIPS and the legendary Boadas Cocktails in Barcelona. We chat about everything from staying creative to taking over a stalwart industry space like Boadas.

Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Apr 04, 202539:41

Episode #181 - Hayden Lambert, Above Board

In this episode, I chat with fellow "Australian" Hayden Lambert about the journey to and operating a small bar in metro Melbourne. This is a raw chat about small bar culture, community and business.

Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Mar 21, 202556:36

Episode #180 - Giacomo Giannotti, True Leader in Sustainability

In this episode, I chat to the ever charismatic Giacomo Giannotti of Paradiso, Barcelona. We chat about the real meaning of sustainability and it's more than saving your waste. This is an enlightening talk about community, culture and creativity.

Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Mar 14, 202550:23

Episode #179 - Danil Nevsky, Indie Bartender

In this episode, I chatted with Danil Nevsky, the cocktailman, and the indie bartender. He has become one of the most prolific bartending personalities in the world, this is a great chat for young bartenders.

Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Feb 28, 202501:22:49

Episode #178 - Camper English

In this episode, I have the privilege to chat to journalist and author, Camper English. We chat about his work with creating perfect ice, his rabbit hole investigative style and what he is loving about the industry right now.

Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Feb 21, 202547:42

Shot #192 - Progressing in the Industry

In this episode, I want to chat to the younger generation about what is next for them. Been asked how I stay motivated in the industry after almost 30 years, so I break it down for you.

Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Feb 18, 202509:28

Episode #177 - Iain McPherson, Panda & Sons

In this episode, I am lucky enough to have a chat with Iain McPherson from Panda & Sons in Edinburgh, Scotland. He and his team have been behind some of the most advanced bar techniques in the last decade. We not only talk about the creative element of his work but also the business side of things. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

Feb 14, 202545:45

Shot #191 - Time Management

In this episode, this came out of a little mentor session about how I manage my time. From the outside looking in, I achieve a lot in my day; but I still have plenty of time for family and sleep. Time Management is about compartmentalizing your priorities.

Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Feb 11, 202509:34

Episode #176 - Evan Rogers, James Beard Winning Film Maker

In this episode, I chat with Evan Rogers, @BeardFoundation Award Winning Film Maker. We discuss the need for small market food space voices along with his take on the filming and making of The Great Wall, his James Beard Award Winning Short Documentary. Here is the documentary link - https://vimeo.com/undercurrentfilmco/greatwallfilm FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

Feb 07, 202540:05

Shot #190 - Tariffs and the Industry

I recorded this just yesterday, and the governments have flopped back to allowing US products. I have always been compliant on government issues like this, but this one felt like the industry was being used as a whipping pole yet again. Will all this revert back in 30 days? Tough to say!

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Feb 04, 202508:10

Episode #175 - Chris Maffeo, Bottom Up Brand Building

In this episode, I chat to Chris Maffeo about brand building for small brands. A great start to 2025, if you are a small brand in the liquor sphere, this is the episode that you need to listen to. Tons of value and advice on what you should be doing to succeed in 2025. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

Jan 31, 202547:10

Shot #189 - Breaking into the Hospitality Industry

In this episode, I chat about how to how to build a solid foundation as a new hospitality industry person. I break down the 5 key points below. Master the Basics: Learn bar setup, how to use tools properly, and the key techniques for efficiency and speed. Memorize the Classics: Start with 20-30 go-to cocktails (e.g., Martini, Old Fashioned) and build from there. Be Humble and Eager: Show a willingness to learn, ask questions, and absorb knowledge from veteran bartenders. Develop Professional Habits: Be punctual, have a clean uniform, and show respect for coworkers and the bar. Understand the Industry Culture: Learn the unwritten rules, how to build relationships, and the value of teamwork. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

Jan 29, 202508:05

Episode #174 - Ian Tostenson, BCRFA

In this episode, I chat with BCRFA President and CEO, Ian Tosteson and the state of 2024, the GST holiday rollout and the outlook for 2025. Another indepth chat with the people on the ground for legislation and governmental changes. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

Jan 24, 202542:36

Shot #188 - Awards Don't Mean Shit!

In this episode, it's awards season so I chat about why they shouldn't matter as much as people make out that they need to be. Hope this gives you some perspective.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Jan 21, 202509:55

Episode #173 - Jeff Guignard, ABLE BC

In this episode, I chat to Jeff Guignard of ABLE BC and dive into the wins and losses for the industry in 2024 and the hopes and aspirations of 2025. If you are an operator and want a deep dive on the organisation helping the industry, this is the one. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

Jan 17, 202552:18

Shot #187 - The Shaft

In this episode, I kick a hornet's nest with Josh from Bartender Atlas when he did a deep dive on the creation and proliferation of Victoria's cocktail (or is it?) The Shaft. always love chatting to crew from Bartender's Atlas and this one was a ton of fun.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Jan 14, 202514:25

Episode #172 - Chris Elliott, Restaurants Canada

In this episode, I chat with Chris Elliott, Chief Economist from Restaurants Canada about how the industry did during 2024 and where it's headed in 2025.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Jan 10, 202544:16

Shot #186 - The Early Days of Victoria's Cocktail Culture

Another exert from my session with the Camosun College talking about the early days of the cocktail scene here in Victoria. Those days were tougher than I would like to remember but still a lot of fun.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Jan 07, 202507:13

Episode #171 - Simon Ford, Masterclass in Brand Building

In this episode, we get a masterclass on brand building from Simon Ford, owner of Ford's Gin. We dig deep on his journey, the early days and how he built it into the "bartender's gin" and the new challenge of retail sales and growth. If you are a small brand, this is a must watch!

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Dec 20, 202456:20

Shot #185 - SUCCESS

In this episode, I do a throwback to a series I did leading up to 2021 called FOCUS, PATIENCE, SUCCESS. And with the re-release of the podcast this year and this being my mantra, I wanted to repost for everyone to get you set up for 2025.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Dec 17, 202409:04

Episode #170 - Kait Stewart, like.a.ble cocktails

In this episode, I get to chat social media stardom with like.a.ble cocktails, Kait Stewart and how it all started and the direction it is heading in for her. Great chat for young bartenders looking at really honing their skills and building a online personal brand.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Dec 13, 202446:42

Shot #184 - PATIENCE

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Dec 10, 202411:31

Episode #169 - Dave Broom, The World Atlas of Whisky

In this episode, I have a lively chat with spirits writer Dave Broom about his upcoming book, the third edition of The World Atlas of Whisky. We chat about how whisky is intertwined with society, culture and how we drink. Amazing chat, hope you enjoy.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Dec 06, 202452:46

Shot #183 - FOCUS

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Dec 03, 202412:13

Episode #168 - Calliope Draper, Leading Inclusivity in the Hospitality Space

In this episode, we sit down with the 2024 World's 50 Best Roku Scholarship Recipient to discuss the vital role of inclusivity and LGBTQ+ rights in the hospitality industry. We explore how businesses and individuals can create more welcoming, equitable spaces for everyone, focusing on actionable strategies for fostering diversity and respect. Join us for an enlightening conversation on breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and making the hospitality industry a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

Nov 29, 202446:40

Shot #182 - Mental Health Advice for Young Hospitality People

In this episode, I take a portion of the Camosun College Mixology Class talk and chat about mental health, training and the industry in general.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Nov 26, 202406:54

Episode #167 - Curtis McMillan, The Mischievous Mixologist

In this episode, we chat to Boston bartender, Curtis McMillan about tiki, his new book, The Mischievous Mixologist and his career. The book is fantastic and I highly urge you to get it.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Nov 22, 202451:30

Shot #181 - Turnover is an "US", not "THEM" Problem

This came out of a long session I did with the Mixology Class at Camosun College. I have the class come in every 6 months with new students and try and enlighten them on the industry as a whole. I hope you get some value out of this.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Nov 19, 202408:28

Episode #166 - Jason Littrell and the Rise of AI

In this episode, I sit down with Jason Littrell of Kinetic Management Systems to chat about the rise of AI in the hospitality industry and how he shows clients how to implement it in their everyday for guest retention to staff on boarding. Really eye opening conversation about the future of AI in the hospitality space.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Nov 15, 202449:26

Embracing Mistakes

I suppose it's a bit of a reflection period coming to the end of the year, so I have reposted a chat that Mike Norbury and I did when he competed in the Patron Perfectionists competition. Now he is the Patron brand ambassador.

Nov 13, 202406:08

Shot #180 - Embracing Mistakes and Taking Control

A little throwback episode about embracing the mistakes you make and taking control of the narrative going forward. It's a nice reminder for myself as well, so I hope you enjoy it.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Nov 12, 202406:37

Episode #165 - Jim Meehan and The Bartender's Pantry

In this episode, I get to chat with industry stalwart, Jim Meehan about his career, the industry and his amazing new book, The Bartender's Pantry. This is a must get book, get it here.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Nov 08, 202401:03:51

Shot #179 - How to Create a Successful Succession Plan

In this episode, I take on a topic that I don't feel many independent operators think about when they open and run their venues. A successful succession plan is very important after the first 5 years of business.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Nov 05, 202413:06

Episode #164 - Hugo Togni of Bar Pompette

In this episode, I chat with good friend Hugo Togni of Bar Pompette in Toronto, and absolutely gem of a human and the tour de force behind Bar Pompette in Toronto, one of the most awarded bars in the country in 2024. We chat evolving industry, awards, and working with local farmers. Hope you enjoy the episode.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Nov 01, 202459:04

Shot #178 - How to Create a Valuable Training Schedule

In this episode, I chat about certifications and wage increases for your team along with how much to budget per year for staff training, if you aren't investing 1-2% into training your team, you are missing out on a massive retention tool.

Edinburgh Whisky Academy Scotch Whisky, Irish Whiskey, Gin

WSET 1 Spirits Online

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Oct 29, 202408:55

Episode #163 - Jim Taylor and Bold Operations

In this episode, I sit down with Jim Taylor of Benchmark Sixty and chat about his new book, Bold Operations. A deep dive in modern day operations and how to implement systems to tackle staffing, training and so much more. An absolute fantastic book, can be purchased here - https://amzn.to/4fc8huR

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Oct 25, 202444:12

Shot #177 - Top 5 Expenses and Budgets for Operating a Restaurant

In this episode, I tackle the top 5 expenses for a restaurant and what their budgets should be. I know so many operators don't know what their costs should be so I wanted to quantify the best I can. Hope this helps some operators out there.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Oct 22, 202414:09

Episode #162 - Chris Cardone and the Sober Movement

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Cardone of Continuous Beverage and chat his journey through flair, to Diageo World Class and his latest endeavour with his sober journey and educating the industry and more on the movement.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Oct 18, 202401:10:15

Shot #176 - How Much Does It Actually Cost to Open a Restaurant?

In this episode, I lay out the the costs of how much it actually costs to open a restaurant. These are just industry averages and everyone is different, but I wanted to give tangible figures and some antidotes along the way. Hope this gives you some scope if you are looking at opening your own place.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Oct 15, 202412:18

Episode #161 - Kate Gerwin of Happy Accidents and Drink Masters

In this episode, I sit down with Kate Gerwin of Happy Accidents and of Drink Master fame and we have a chance to delve into small markets, awards, cocktails, travel and the TV show. Hope you enjoy the episode.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Oct 11, 202453:34

Shot #175 - Navigating the Costs of Running a Restaurant in 2024

In this episode, I give you five actionable ways to saving costs in the current restaurant market. They are listed below for reference.

Here are five solutions for "Navigating the Costs of Running a Restaurant in 2024"

1. Cut Smart, Not Cheap

You gotta trim the fat, but don’t slice into the meat. Food costs are skyrocketing with inflation, but don’t start cutting corners on quality. Instead, rework the menu. Go for dishes that maximize the ingredients you already have. Think of it like a cocktail—sometimes fewer ingredients, done right, deliver a bigger punch. Seasonal menus are key; keep it fresh and local to avoid getting hit by long-haul transportation costs.

2. Labor: Cross-Train or Die

Labor is where most restaurants bleed out, so get creative. Cross-train your staff to handle multiple roles. That bartender? Make sure they can jump in as a barback or even help the host. It builds a team with better flexibility, makes scheduling easier, and keeps the labor costs down without burning out your people. Plus, they feel more invested in the overall operations—it’s a win-win.

3. Tech Up, Save Big

It's 2024—time to embrace tech. Automation for inventory management and ordering can save you cash on human error and overbuying. POS systems are getting smarter, so leverage them to track what's selling and when to reduce waste. Even energy-saving tech, like LED lighting and smart thermostats, can make a noticeable dent in those overhead costs without sacrificing the guest experience.

4. Negotiate Like a Shark

Don’t be afraid to flex on your suppliers. You’re running a business, not a charity. Talk to your vendors and negotiate better terms—long-term partnerships, bulk deals, or even shared cost savings. If they can’t give you what you need, it might be time to look elsewhere. Loyalty is great, but not at the cost of your bottom line.

5. Community = Free Marketing

Engage with your community and tap into local collaborations. Host events with local businesses or breweries that bring in a crowd without costing you an arm and a leg on marketing. These partnerships can help draw traffic without the ad spend, and the word-of-mouth marketing is priceless. Keep your brand visible but lean on your community to share the load.

These strategies are all about balancing the need to tighten the purse strings without suffocating your restaurant’s vibe. You’ve gotta keep the guest experience solid while playing the game smart behind the scenes.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole

Oct 08, 202409:50

Episode #160 - Dave Mitton, Global Brand Ambassador, J.P Wiser's

In this episode, I catch up with Dave Mitton, Global Brand Ambassador of J.P Wiser's as we chat about his start in the industry, his move to brand ambassadorship and the state of Canadian Whisky. Absolute gem of a human, that I am glad to call a friend and peer. Listen to the Post Shift Podcast - https://tr.ee/B2PalbS8hG #fyp #PostShiftPodcast #ShawnSoole #BartenderLife #Mixology #CocktailCulture #BehindTheBar #HospitalityIndustry #BarTalk #DrinkCreators #bartendercommunity#shorts, #youtubeshorts, #viral, #trending, #subscribe, #foryou, #foryoupage, #fyp, #explorepage, #discover, #viralvideo, #tiktok, #instagram, #youtube, #reels FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

Oct 04, 202401:00:48

Shot #174 - State of Business

In this episode, I recently put out a questionnaire for business owners, operators and managers to see how other markets are doing. The results were shocking and telling on how the industry is currently.

The link to my break even calculator is here - https://soolehospitality.com/blog/2021/5/18/ultimate-break-even-calculator

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole

Oct 01, 202421:28

Episode #159 - Reece Sims and Flavor Camp

In this episode, I sit down with Reece Sims, a spirits expert and entrepreneur. We dive into the importance of fitness in the hospitality industry, overcoming rejection, and finding success beyond financial goals. Reece also shares her vision for disrupting the spirits industry with innovative tasting methods. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole

Sep 27, 202451:20

Shot #173 - 5 Tips to Hiring the Right Team

Hiring is Guessing, Firing is Knowing. I live by this to stop perfectionism in the hiring process. Here are 5 tips to hiring the right team.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole

Sep 24, 202405:18

Episode #158 - Keegan McGregor, Diageo World Class Global Winner 2024

In this episode, I catch up with Keegan McGregor, fresh off his global bartending competition win. We dive into his journey through imposter syndrome, the importance of self-confidence, and his desire to uplift his local community. Keegan shares his unique definition of success and future plans. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole

Sep 20, 202449:09

Shot #172 - 5 Tips on Minimizing Staff Turnover

This week I chat about 5 key takeaways from minimizing staff turnover in your venue. Hope this helps some operators out there.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole

Sep 17, 202405:15

Episode #157 - Evelyn Chick and Modern Entrepreneurship

In this episode of, Shawn sits down with Evelyn Chick, award-winning bartender and entrepreneur, to discuss financial literacy, the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, and redefining success in the hospitality industry. Evelyn shares her journey, insights on building a sustainable business, and her vision for creating accessible and memorable guest experiences.

Soole Hospitality Concepts ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/⁠⁠

Sep 13, 202449:18

Shot #171 - For < With, Changing Management Wording

In this episode, I dive into the power of language in leadership. I discuss how shifting from "working for" to "working with" your team can transform your business culture, foster collaboration, and drive success. Tune in to learn how this simple change can make a big impact.

Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/

Sep 10, 202404:41

Episode #156 - Kevin Demers and Building an Empire

In this episode, Shawn chats with Kevin Demers, Montreal’s hospitality visionary and the mastermind behind multiple venues, including Coldroom. Kevin shares his entrepreneurial journey, offering insights on scaling a business, multi-unit management, and the importance of personal growth. A must-listen for anyone in the bar industry!

Soole Hospitality Concepts ⁠https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/⁠

Sep 06, 202401:02:17