The Educated Barfly: Why Technique, Not Trends, Builds Better Bars
In this episode of The Cocktail Academy Podcast, Damian Cole sits down with Leandro DiMonriva — better known as The Educated Barfly — to explore what it really takes to combine bartending, content creation, and cocktail education at the highest level.
Leandro shares his journey from LA’s bar scene to YouTube success, how he uses technique to elevate even the simplest cocktails, and why authenticity and consistency matter more than chasing trends. They also discuss his upcoming book Home Bartending Mastery and what sets it apart from today’s crowded cocktail book shelf.
Whether you're a bartender, bar owner, or drinks educator, this episode is loaded with practical insights and hard-earned wisdom.
🧠 Topics Covered:
- Leandro’s transition from bartender to YouTube creator
- Why technique makes or breaks a cocktail
- The problem with original recipes and the myth of complexity
- What makes Home Bartending Mastery different
- The reality of creator burnout and staying inspired
- Navigating brand partnerships and setting your value
📘 Leandro’s Book
Home Bartending Mastery – Coming October 2025
A beginner-friendly book that teaches how to make pro-quality drinks at home, with an emphasis on technique and balance.
🔗 Connect with Leandro
📺 YouTube: The Educated Barfly
📸 Instagram: @theeducatedbarfly
🎙️ Podcast: The Good Spirits Project (YouTube only)
🔗 Connect with Damian & The Cocktail Academy
🌐 Website: www.thecocktailacademy.com
📸 Instagram: @welovecocktails
📱 TikTok: @welovecocktailsx
📘 Facebook: @welovecocktailsx
🎙️ Patreon: patreon.com/thecocktailacademy
📧 Email: sayhello@thecocktailacademy.com
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