Lauren Chitwood: Crafting Spiritless Cocktails in Bourbon Country
Episode Overview
Lauren Chitwood is pioneering non-alcoholic spirits with Spiritless. Consumer education is key to acceptance of non-alcoholic beverages. Health trends are influencing drinking habits across generations. Spiritless is expanding with partnerships like Starbucks and TGI Fridays. The future of BevAlk lies in non-alcoholic options.
It's innovate or die. That's just the reality of it.
In this episode of Alcohol-Free Radio, Lauren Chitwood takes centre stage as she shares her remarkable journey in the heart of Bourbon Country. As the CEO and co-founder of Spiritless, Lauren is on a mission to transform the landscape of no- and low-proof spirits, bringing innovative solutions to the table for those looking to enjoy their favourite cocktails without the alcohol buzz. Her story begins in Kentucky, where her love for bourbon inspired a revolutionary idea: creating a non-alcoholic bourbon.
Lauren's entrepreneurial spirit shines through as she recounts the challenges and triumphs of starting a business in a category that many might overlook. From basement experiments to patented processes, Lauren's tale is one of perseverance and creativity. The conversation delves into the complexities of educating consumers about non-alcoholic spirits and how Spiritless has tackled these hurdles with products like non-alcoholic cocktails in a can. Lauren's humorous anecdotes about her 'grumpy old man' customers illustrate the ongoing journey of consumer education.
She also touches on broader industry trends, such as the impact of health-focused lifestyles and emerging medications that influence drinking habits. As Spiritless expands its reach in the U.S., Lauren shares her excitement about partnerships with major brands like Starbucks and TGI Fridays, showcasing how non-alcoholic options are gaining traction in mainstream venues. This episode is not just about business; it's a celebration of changing perceptions and creating positive experiences for those who choose to drink differently.
If you're curious about how non-alcoholic spirits are reshaping social norms or simply want to hear a fascinating story from a trailblazing entrepreneur, this episode is your ticket to understanding the spiritless revolution.