Luca The Podcast

Alberto Marcolongo — From Italy to New York: Discipline, Creativity & Why Pressure Is a Privilege
Recorded in New York City, this episode of LUCA, THE PODCAST welcomes Italian chef Alberto Marcolongo.
From his early memories in Italy to working in Michelin-starred kitchens across Europe and Asia, and eventually building his career in New York, Alberto reflects on the experiences, mentors and philosophies that have shaped him.
Together with Luca, they discuss the importance of trust and mentorship, the realities of leadership, collaboration between chefs and bartenders, and the role of creativity in modern hospitality.
One of the most powerful moments of the conversation comes when Alberto explains why he believes that:
“Pressure is a privilege.”
An inspiring episode for chefs, bartenders and anyone passionate about hospitality.
Follow LUCA, THE PODCAST for more conversations with the people shaping the future of hospitality.
Special thanks to our partners:
🥃 AMARO SANTONI
https://amarosantoni.com/en/prodotto/amaro-santoni/
🍸 THE ART OF SHAKING
https://theartofshaking.com/

Recorded in New York City, this episode of LUCA, THE PODCAST welcomes journalist, author and educator Mandy Naglich.

Mandy shares her journey from working in hospitality to becoming one of the leading voices documenting cocktail culture, drinks journalism and the science of taste and smell.

Together, Luca and Mandy explore:
– the psychology behind cocktails and hospitality
– storytelling in bars and media
– burnout, connection and life in the drinks industry
– social media, authenticity and AI
– what truly makes a great cocktail bar
– and why hospitality is ultimately about human connection

A thoughtful conversation about culture, curiosity and the future of hospitality.

Special thanks to the partners supporting the podcast:

🥃 THE ART OF SHAKING
THE ART OF SHAKING

🍊 AMARO SANTONI
AMARO SANTONI

Follow the podcast on Instagram: @lucathepodcast

Recorded in New York City, this episode of LUCA, THE PODCAST welcomes Andrea Grujic — bartender, creative director and storyteller working at the intersection of hospitality and media.

Andrea shares her journey from growing up across multiple countries to building a creative career in New York hospitality. The conversation explores storytelling, content creation, mentorship, burnout, social media, personal branding and the emotional side of hospitality that people rarely talk about.

A powerful and deeply human episode about resilience, creativity and connection.

Special thanks to the Athens Bar Show.

This episode is proudly supported by:

🥃 THE ART OF SHAKING
THE ART OF SHAKING

🍊 AMARO SANTONI
AMARO SANTONI

Follow the podcast on Instagram:
@lucathepodcast

In this special Athens Bar Show edition of LUCA, THE PODCAST, Luca sits down with Yiannis Vardakis — Brand Ambassador of Athens Bar Show and one of the people helping make one of Europe’s most important hospitality events happen.

From starting with boxes and operations to becoming a key figure behind the scenes, Yiannis shares a real perspective on teamwork, hospitality, and building something that lasts.

In this episode, they explore:

– How Athens Bar Show operates behind the scenes
– Why hospitality skills matter in business
– The truth about successful events
– Why networking creates opportunity
– The future of hospitality gatherings

Recorded live during Athens Bar Show.

Special thanks to the Athens Bar Show team for hosting this conversation.

This podcast is proudly supported by:

The Art of Shaking
https://theartofshaking.com/

Amaro Santoni
https://amarosantoni.com/en/prodotto/amaro-santoni/

Follow LUCA, THE PODCAST for more episodes.

In this special Athens Bar Show edition of LUCA, THE PODCAST, Luca sits down with Babis Kaidalidis — founder of Athens Bar Show and one of the key figures behind the growth of Greece’s hospitality scene.

From starting in the industry at 12 years old to building one of Europe’s most respected bar events, Babis shares an honest perspective on success, hard work, education, and community.

In this episode, they explore:

– How Athens Bar Show began
– Why education matters more than products
– The truth behind building something from zero
– Why there is no secret to success
– The future of hospitality and technology

Recorded live during Athens Bar Show.

Special thanks to the Athens Bar Show team for hosting this conversation.

This podcast is proudly supported by:

The Art of Shaking
https://theartofshaking.com/

Amaro Santoni
https://amarosantoni.com/en/prodotto/amaro-santoni/

Follow LUCA, THE PODCAST for more episodes.