Tiny Cocktails, Big Ideas with Tyler Zielinski

Tyler Zielinski has built one of the most interesting careers in modern drinks. In this episode, Damian chats with the author of Tiny Cocktails about his path from early bartending roles in Boston, to advertising in New York, to becoming a writer, consultant, educator, and content creator working across the global drinks industry.They talk about what it really takes to build a career beyond the bar, why modern bartenders need to think differently about networking and visibility, and how Tyler carved out a lane that blends hospitality, media, and brand work.The conversation also digs into the rise of tiny cocktails — what they actually are, why they are more than just glorified shots, and how they can create real value for bars and guests alike. Tyler also shares how the book opened the door to projects like Wheels Up and the Up Mini Bar, showing how one idea can evolve into something much bigger.A great listen for bartenders, operators, drinks creatives, and anyone curious about where cocktail culture is heading next.In this episode:Tyler’s route into hospitalityFrom Boston bars to New York advertisingWhy content creation in drinks is harder than it looksBuilding a career outside the traditional bar pathWhy bartenders need to diversify their networkWhat tiny cocktails actually areHow smaller serves can work in a bar programPricing, access, and tasting-menu applicationsThe Wheels Up partnership and Up Mini BarWhy unusual ideas can lead to major opportunitiesFollow Tyler:Instagram: @bon_vivantitoIndustry content: @zeststoriesFollow The Cocktail Academy:Instagram: @welovecocktailsTikTok: @welovecocktailsxFacebook: @welovecocktailsxWebsite: www.thecocktailacademy.comEmail: sayhello@thecocktailacademy.com If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a bartender mate, post it to your story, and tag us so we can see it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.