Pittsburgh’s self-confessed D-List celebrities Ed and Day open their latest Drinking Partners episode pondering their local status and how far the benefits extend. Moments later, they are joined by Nick Fazzoni and Travis Tuttle of Butler Brew Works. It doesn’t take long for the nonsense to surface as the men jump ship for a hilarious and out of nowhere discussion. But they settle down into a discussion about Butler Brew Works ingredient list and are given a big surprise as Day reads the label of an aphrodisiac brew: Best enjoyed with a Drinking Partner. Perhaps as testimony to the beer itself, Day soon has all three men covering their faces as he reflects on a NSFW topic. Tune in to hear Nick and Travis talk about how their beers journey to become “adventurous ales.” For more information about Butler Brew Works, visit www.butlerbrewworks.com.

The opening minutes of the latest Drinking Partners release have Ed and Day considering the possibility that they have been catfished before they introduce Fred Hodges, Director of Multicultural Services at Robert Morris University. However, the mood soon changes as the men discuss the significance and importance of mentoring. Of course Ed finds a way to accentuate the hilarious as he points out that his longtime friend is a great mentor because “On his day off, he might have some Henny Black.” Listeners will undoubtedly enjoy Ed’s story about how Fred and he first met. The latter half of the podcast is filled with philosophies on how to succeed and other bits of advice and positivity that the men have gleamed as they get older. A focused and optimistic listen.

Jeff Bloom, one of the Drinking Partner’s first guests, returns in this latest release. As owner and brewer at Bloom Brew, Jeff creates one of the Drinking Partner’s favorite sours, which leads to an early discussion on the optimal beer temperature. From there, the interview widens into all things industry related ¬– from the barrel sizes of brew houses to the business management that happens behind the scenes. However, Jeff brings a bounty of beer, and soon both Ed and Day abandon the ship of sobriety with hilarious consequences. Ed gets funky (in more ways than one) and Day begins to mumble before the trio waxes poetic about cheese. Midway through, Jeff brings out his personal selection, including rare brews and a five year-aged cider. Listen until the end to experience the Drinking Partners wholly unfiltered, mildly freaky, and classically unwound. For more about Bloom Brew, visit www.bloombrew.com.

Hop Culture, an online magazine for a “new generation of craft beer drinkers,” reaches millions of readers around the world by focusing on the evolving needs of the modern beer drinker. Kenny Gould, its Editor in Chief, joins the Drinking Partners in the newest release – a lighthearted, story-filled exchange. Like Hop Culture itself, the tales connect and spin from a common, alcohol-rich center. From Day commenting that margaritas taste like ham to Ed comparing the color of his sneakers to Day’s skin tone, the conversation surprises at every turn. Toward the closing minutes, Mr. Gould considers what might be the next trend in craft beer. His conclusion might surprise listeners. A fun listen, with lots of classic Drinking Partners moments. To read Hop Culture’s latest offerings, visit their website: https://www.hopculture.com.

Rob Soltis of Craft Pittsburgh, the leading publication highlighting Pittsburgh’s booming beer scene, visits the Drinking Partners in this informative and analytical release. From exploring the welcoming atmosphere of breweries to anticipating the next trend in brewing, the conversation is fast-paced and beer-centric. The interview offers listeners and craft beer fans a sophisticated look into the workings of a magazine devoted to the breweries and beer of Western Pennsylvania. However, the closing minutes set aside order and structure as the men exchange quips and jokes, and Ed proclaims, “Day will make you say some shit that you weren’t going to say.” Stay tuned until the end to hear a hilarious exchange between the Drinking Partners. Pick up a copy of Craft Pittsburgh or visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/craftpittsburgh/

In what might be one of their most exciting releases, the Drinking Partners podcast live from the Hilltopolis Festival with hip hop revolutionaries The Cool Kids. Newly reunited after a break to focus on individual projects, Sir Michael Rocks and Chuck Inglish sit with Ed and Day to chat about both their past and present and to promote their new album, Special Edition Grandmaster Deluxe. The conversations are swift and caffeinated as The Cool Kids reveal their roots, both professional and personal – from their early internet popularity to their current breakout album. From the opening segment to a rap debate midway through, the feverish tone never breaks, even when the conversation turns confessional and contemplative as The Cool Kids speak on their early days. Interlacing the interview are breaks and branches into hilarity – stories and jabs that will induce waves of laughter from unexpected places. A highly intoxicating listen that should not be missed and will not be soon forgotten.

The vibe is clear from the opening questions as the Drinking Partners interview Bill Oates from Three Rivers Underground Brewers. An exploration into brewing intently focuses on developing new recipes and experimenting with new flavors as Mr. Oates explains how ingredients are chosen and used. The always sharp-tongued Drinking Partners intermix genuine curiosity with beer-fueled antics midway through; forgotten is the brewing process as they muse on seemingly unrelated topics. After a detour into a discussion on Little Bow Wow – who Ed begs to visit the podcast, the Drinking Partners swoon over Mr. Oates’s cognac-infused pour. The beer is such a hit that Ed claims it has Day climbing walls and curling his toes. A fun listen with a great combination of knowledge and humor, often making the two indistinguishable.

Alex Stypula, co-host of the Give Me Murder or Give Me Death true crime podcast, brings out the dark side of the Drinking Partners in this hilarious and satirical release. From interpreting Game of Thrones characters to analyzing Cardi B’s rise, the opening minutes will have listeners questioning what is real. From there, the conversation turns even stranger when a lengthy exchange revolves around cannibalism in a NSFW segment. Midway through, the men examine their comedy careers, from how their jokes develop to how they are received. Of course the trio discusses punching Nazis (they approve) and other current topics with sarcastic flair and ungodly humor. To hear more of Alex’s podcast, visit http://givememurderpodcast.libsyn.com.

Fellow podcaster and comic Mike Sasson chats with the Drinking Partners in their latest release. An early discussion about football leads Ed to consider starting a “Pimp the Program” before the trio transitions to talking comedy as only those who do stand up can do – with an emphasis on the inner workings of the profession. Midway through, the group tests the censors by reflecting on the freedoms that come with podcasting. An observation on politics concludes the show, with all three comedians offering their perspectives on the latest events. An important listen with a comedic tint. To listen to the Mike Sasson Show, visit http://www.riversedgepgh.com.

In the opening moments, Brandon and Pat from Helltown Brewing, whose moniker reflects their Mount Pleasant 15666 zip code, gift the Drinking Partners with a special, cherry-infused stout that was aged in sherry casks for years. Next up, the men sample a hazy IPA, so new that the name has not been finalized, which leads the conversation into a more frenzied place. A discussion on the best footwear to brew in leads Ed to proclaim that he needs to learn how to rap, which he soon attempts. As with many Drinking Partners podcasts, the closing minutes offer confessions and stories, jokes and laughter. A fun listen that begins with information about brewing and concludes with foolery. To learn more about Helltown Brewing, visit: http://www.helltownbrewing.com.

In an extraordinary, live podcast from the Pittsburgh Comedy Festival, the Drinking Partners welcome W. Kamau Bell – one of the country’s best socio-political comedians and a rising media star. As host of the Emmy Award nominated United Shades of America on CNN and his own podcast –Politically Reactive – Mr. Bell converses with an entertaining ease and blazing wit as Ed and Day fire questions his way. Despite an emphasis on the current political climate, the interview brims with humor and charm as it winds its way from maximum security prisons to Bruce Lee, before returning back to what is ahead for W. Kamau Bell. A must listen with one of today’s most important voices. For links to his book, podcast, and upcoming shows, find Mr. Bell at http://www.wkamaubell.com.

Sipping on ales provided by Voodoo Brewery, the Drinking Partners are joined by Mike Pound, host of Beer Me – a Pittburgh-based video series that explores the brewing scene’s styles, trends, and personalities. Humbled with an expert in the studio, Ed and Day listen in as Mr. Pound explains the culture of beer and expands their brewing terminology. From guessing what will be the next movement in the craft beer industry to exploring the history of neighborhood breweries and pubs, the men leave no stone unturned in their analysis of the growing scene. A conversation about flavors and ingredients leads to an admission from Ed that shocks Day and changes the course of the interview. An informative and interesting listen for those who enjoy the craft beer world. To watch Beer Me with Mike Pound, visit: https://newsinteractive.post-gazette.com/beerme/.

The Drinking Partners welcome special guest and nationally touring comedian Myq Kaplan into the studio in this extensive, admission-filled interview. What follows is an exceptionally open exploration into Myq’s journey across the comedic world. From his early days in college to his comedy album specials, Mr. Kaplan reveals what it takes to make it to the national stage. Throughout the interview, one that is flavored with wit and wordplay, the men’s discussion does not slow as it covers topics from rap battles to comedy roasts and includes a detour that contains Game of Thrones spoilers. In the latter half, the comedians verge back into talk of craft and performance, highlighting the art of stand up comedy. However, the closing minutes let up on the brakes and allow the men to reflect on love and relationships without restraint. Find Myq Kaplan and his albums at www.myqkaplan.com. The Drinking Partners will be live at Comtra Theatre August 26.

The opening minutes in the latest Drinking Partners release features Day praising the wonders of bologna and guest host Jared Evans loving on Heaven Hill bourbon before introducing Helicon Brewing’s Chris Brunetti. Located in Oakdale and open since November, Helicon specializes in German lagers and seeks to create light and refreshing beer. The inspiration behind the Helicon name to how the brewery began highlight the interview with pauses for jokes and stories from the hosts. Toward the closing minutes, Mr. Brunetti explains how beer-tasting competitions work, which might be of particular interest for listeners. Epicast producer Buzzy Torek makes his first appearance on a Drinking Partners podcast, so be certain to tune in until the closing minutes. For more information about Helicon Brewing, find them at www.heliconbrewing.com.

Pitchwerks host Scot MacTaggart joins Day in the studio to guest host as the men welcome Josh Lucas, founder of Work Hard Pittsburgh and Academy Pittsburgh. In the opening minutes, Mr. Lucas explains how Work Hard launched and highlights its mission as a business cooperative and co-working space. With the self-admitted aim of preferring to “steal your talent instead of your money,” Josh promotes opportunities for those who might struggle to find them elsewhere. Listeners will hear how Work Hard is structured to benefit each member and embodies a shared wealth approach. Soon, the interview deepens as the group considers how to transform desires into reality, yet examines the effects of poverty on such a transformation. In the latter half of the podcast, a particular moving discussion develops around empathy, which will invoke self-evaluation and contemplation. A moving interview that is not afraid to explore human weakness while offering ideas for advancement and improvement. To learn more about Work Hard Pittsburgh, visit http://workhardpgh.com.

Where better to podcast live than from “an amusement park of beer where you go on different flavor rides?” The Drinking Partners visit Troeg’s Independent Brewing in Hershey, PA and act as excitedly as kids in a candy store. Brothers John and Chris Trogner founded the brewery in 1996 and join Ed and Day to discuss how Troeg’s began – from its early days as a local brewery to their progression through experimentation, hard work, and a “hop-forward” approach. What follows is a thoroughly informative and entertaining discussion in which the Trogners share beer and wisdom while offering an exclusive glimpse into their highly successful brewery. The group first samples the original Troegenator, a smooth, German-inspired Double Bock before moving onto a bourbon barrel-aged version, one that makes Day moan and mumble in appreciation and Ed to quip that Day has discovered his blackness. From there, they sip on Perpetual, a bold IPA that only came about after fifteen years and now has become the “lead dog.” The Nimble Giant, a Double IPA whose heft leads to a dramatic and hilarious conversation about burping (and other bodily functions), is next up before the Drinking Partners end with a Crimson Pistil, a summery berry brew that leaves them giddy and gleeful. A must listen podcast and unforgettable day trip for any who consider themselves a craft beer fan. For more information on Troeg’s, please visit: http://www.troegs.com.

Brewers Marcus Cox and Nick Jones of Mindful Brewing join the Drinking Partners in the studio and discuss fried chicken, green cards, and beer in the opening segment. Sipping on a Straight Kolsch as they chat, the men are relaxed and playful before transitioning to Chin Music, an IPA with varying hops and, according to Day, an addicting taste. A detailed, extensive interview follows featuring the history of beer and its many flavors and styles. In the second half, the group reflects on their recent tour of the Mindful Brewing facility in Castle Shannon, during which the Drinking Partners inspired a Belgian dubbel named in their honor. Rich, dark, and chocolate, the “Ed and Day’s Big Belgian Collaboration” is now on tap at Mindful Brewing and lives up to the teasingly enticing hype. Stay tuned all the way through to listen as the Drinking Partners sample an unfinished beer, a first in their history. A beer-centric episode certain to delight true aficionados. For more information on Mindful Brewing (www.mindfulbrewing.com) or to sip on the BBC, visit their state-of-art brewery at 3759 Library Road, Pittsburgh, PA.

Fellow podcaster Nick Jones, host of Beer League Talk – a podcast devoted to beer-fueled adult recreation hockey ¬– joins the Drinking Partners in the studio as the men welcome Dancing Gnome’s Andrew Witchey. Newly open in Pittsburgh, Dancing Gnome styles itself as a hop-centric brewery, and Andrew opens the podcast by explaining the Dancing Gnome fermentation process and the meaning behind the brewery’s offbeat moniker. Not to be outdone, Ed and Day get wildly inventive with language and laughs and engage in a frolic-filled, swerving exchange that will surely amuse listeners. Nick helps bring the podcast back to center with interviewing expertise until the Drinking Partners emerge with outlandish gusto and outrageous, admittedly misogynistic interjections. In a perfectly definitive Drinking Partners moment, the group considers what beer would pair best with Burger King’s Mac and Cheetos. Stay tuned until the closing minutes when Mr. Witchey offers advice on the hidden hurdles of opening a brewery, and Ed attempts to sing some New Edition. A wayward and whimsical podcast with moments of learning and moments of delinquency. For more information on Beer League Talk, find them at www.beerleaguetalk.com. To sip on Dancing Gnome’s well-defined beers, visit them at their Sharpsburg location or at www.dancinggnomebeer.com.

With Love Child by Voodoo Brewery on tap, the Drinking Partners ready themselves for an electric, mighty conversation with Pittsburgh-based Damon Young, cofounder of Very Smart Brothas, an online magazine featuring stories and articles centered around race, sex, pop culture, and current events. With a rapidly growing audience, Very Smart Brothas, and Mr. Young himself, has elevated itself to become a significant and essential media source, one that has found itself on top because of a combination of humor, intelligence, and relevancy. From the opening questions, the men examine issues with thoughtful depth and irreverent wit. Nothing is off limits, from Day’s issues with Steve Harvey to how Mr. Young maintains his own truth while speaking to a national audience. Midway through, the men lighten the gravity to discuss dating and relationships, sharing tales that will have listeners laughing and reminiscing. No Drinking Partners podcast would be complete without a detour through the unusual and off-topic; and this one is no different as the trio argues over how best to make grits before transitioning into an analysis on religion. Stay tuned to hear a classic Drinking Partners exchange as Day remarks, “Jesus is actually a cool ass dude who wore sandals,” and Ed argues, “I don’t think wearing sandals make you cool. That’s a negative mark on Jesus.” To learn more about Damon Young, visit www.verysmartbrothas.com. To see the Drinking Partners live and drink free local brews, purchase tickets for their next downtown show on July 15 at 8:30pm: www.purplepass.com/byob1.

Lips loosened with bourbon, the Drinking Partners and guest Sarah Huny Young – creative developer and photographer – click and rumble from the opening seconds, laughing as much as listeners will in the latest podcast release. Joining Ed and Day to promote her latest project, American Woman, a multimedia documentary about Black American women, Ms. Young matches the pace and spirit of the Drinking Partners with ease, enthusiasm, and enchantment. A lively discussion centers around how Ms. Young seeks to redefine and reshape the archetypal image of who an American woman is. From there, the conversation swells and peaks with amusing stories, grandiose confessions, and cultivated theories; all of which are delivered and analyzed with a zesty banter unique to the Drinking Partners experience. The latter half is definitely NSFW, but is full of fun, flirtation, and friskiness. To learn more about and to support Ms. Young’s American Woman project, visit https://www.patreon.com/americanwoman and https://www.facebook.com/americanwomanproject/.

In an extraordinary live event from Boom Concepts in Pittsburgh, the Drinking Partners are joined by Brian Burley – author of the newly released YNGBLKPGH, a book featuring black professionals from the community – and Thomas Agnew, owner and co-founder of Boom Concepts and Jenisis Magazine. The event celebrated the conclusion of a gallery showing with a brunch provided by Sweet Little Eats and Wine & Words Pittsburgh before the Drinking Partners chatted with Mr. Burley and Mr. Agnew. What follows is a comprehensive conversation centered on community and success, and how interwoven the two must be, which is an integral element in YNGBLKPGH. A question and answer session is highlighted toward the latter half, with an active and engaged examination ensuing. In the closing minutes, an impassioned discussion allows listeners to laugh and consider, from the importance of networking and supporting new concepts and ventures to the salmon shade of Day’s pants. To learn more about YNGBLKPGH and Brian Burley, visit www.yngblkpgh.com and Boom Concepts at www.boomconcepts.com.

One of Pittsburgh’s up and coming rappers, PK Delay, and Jacob Finch, freelance creator and manager, join Ed for a music-centric conversation in the latest Drinking Partners release. In the opening minutes, an introspective discussion centers around the evolving approach of rap artists, with a focus on how new, young rappers are redefining the game and making their own rules. From forming a closer connection to their fans to developing their own images, PK Delay explains how he and other young rappers are exploring new roads and paving their own ways to success. A deeply held belief in bringing a positive aspect to his music and to his fans motivates PK and drives the interview, which is highlighted by an in-depth back and forth between Ed and PK that examines every aspect of the Pittsburgh rap scene. To hear more from PK Delay, visit https://soundcloud.com/pk-delay.

With the studio to himself, Ed reflects on his headlining experience at the Pittsburgh Improv before welcoming North Country Brewing owner Bob McCafferty and marketing head JD Longo. Open since 2005, North Country serves as a veteran voice for listeners, home brewers, and entrepreneurs. With a focus on farm to table and beer-inclusive dining, Mr. McCafferty explains the business model in detail, which makes for an interesting and enlightening podcast. Of course, Ed pops in with amusing asides and funny anecdotes as the men talk shop; and his Make-a-Wish analysis is both hilarious and very Drinking Partners-like, as is his description of his first pedicure. Sipping on the Stinky Hippie, a Pale Ale with 5.5% ABV, the men jump back and forth between personal admissions and professional brewing, with a relaxed and enjoyable vibe. Also of note is the Stationhouse 33 Firehouse Red, a malty ale brewed for the Slippery Rock Fire Department; a percentage of sales is donated back to the department. For information about North Country Brewing Company, visit http://www.northcountrybrewpub.com/. To see the Drinking Partners live at Bricolage on Saturday, June 17 at 8:00 PM, buy tickets at www.purplepass.com/byob.

Small batch masters Ryan Slicker and Tom Jenkins of the newly opened Fury Brewing stop by the studio and join the Drinking Partners for a lesson in beer making, which was broadcasted live on Facebook. The men sip on the caramel flavored Nuts of Fury brown ale to open the podcast as Ryan and Tom speak on what goes into opening a brewery. With beers created for “taste, smoothness, and quality,” Fury Brewing enjoys brewing a variety of offerings and plans to continue to expand. Listeners will enjoy learning how much goes into all sides of brewing, from crafting beer to developing a business model. To close the podcast, the men sample Sid’s 1K IPA, a centennial hop based beer named in honor of Sydney Crosby’s 1000th point. To learn more about Fury Brewing, visit furybrewingcompany.com. To catch the Drinking Partners live at Bricolage Theater (downtown Pittsburgh), buy tickets now: www.purplepass/byob.

In the latest Drinking Partners release, a theme emerges early as Day and guest host Daniel Dongilli explore the idea of learning from one’s mistakes with Tom Klingensmith, owner of Klingensmith Metal, which specializes in custom steel projects. From there, the men discuss a variety of topics – commutes, craft beer, and country living. But the trio also takes some time to analyze the podcast industry and chat about their favorites. A relaxed and refreshing listen that spans across ideas with ease and interest. To learn more about Klingensmith Metal visit Tom’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/klingensmithmetal/