Prost! Podcast
By: Scott Eckart
Language: en-us
Categories: Arts, Food
A Midwestern Wine, Music, and Agri-Tourism podcast hosted by the Pilgrimage Wine Company.
Episodes
Prost! Podcast Episode #13 - Wine Grower Cody Kraus (Daylily Estates): Redefining Wine Culture: Insights from Chile to Indiana
Jan 11, 2026Summary
In this conversation, Cody Kraus shares his insights on the wine culture he experienced in Chile and how it has influenced his approach to winemaking in Indiana. He discusses the demand for dry wines and the evolving preferences of consumers, emphasizing the potential for redefining Indiana's wine identity.
Keywords
wine, Chile, Indiana, dry wines, wine culture, consumer preferences, market demand, wine journey, elevated taste, wine experience
Takeaways
Takeaways
It didn't have to be so capital intensive.
Make something that you like...
Prost! Podcast Episode #12 - Brewsers Podcast w/ Scott Eckart from Pilgrimage Wine Company
Dec 31, 2025Summary:
In this episode of the Prost! Podcast, we revisit the podcast that got it all started! First...Rodie Jon (of the Brewsers Podcast out of Arlington, TX) asks Scott to be on his podcast after he saw some of our Instagram Social Media. Scott had a great time chatting and telling the Pilgrimage story, but once AJ Wetzel suggested we should start our own podcast...it was a done deal.
It has been a blast hosting these interviews...and I can't wait to have more awesome interviews in 2026. We are so cautiously optimistic for the...
Duration: 00:51:40Prost! Podcast Episode #11 - Chris Wolf - The Irreplaceable Touch of Live Music
Dec 21, 2025Summary
In this conversation, Chris Wolf and Scott Eckart discuss the unique emotional connection that live music creates between musicians and their audience, emphasizing that this human experience is irreplaceable, especially in the age of AI. They reflect on the diminishing value of recorded music, suggesting it has become more of a promotional tool than a primary revenue source. Wolf believes that the essence of live performance will always hold value and significance, as it fosters genuine human emotions and connections.
Takeaways
The emotional connection in live music is irreplaceable.
AI cannot...
Prost! Podcast Episode #10 - J. Stephen Casscles - Exploring the World of Hybrid Grapes
Dec 13, 2025Summary
In this engaging conversation, Scott Eckart interviews Stephen Casscles, a prominent figure in the world of winemaking and grape research. They delve into the history of grape varieties, particularly focusing on French hybrids and their significance in the American wine industry. The discussion covers the impact of climate change on grape growing, the legacy of Philip Wagner in promoting hybrids, and the ongoing battle between hybrid and vinifera grapes. Casclase shares insights from his extensive research and experiences, highlighting the evolving perception of hybrid grapes and their potential in modern winemaking. In this conversation, Joseph Stephen...
Prost! Podcast Episode #9 - On the Road w/ AJ Wetzel: Emotional Connections in Live Music
Dec 07, 2025Summary
In this conversation, Scott Eckart and AJ Wetzel discuss the evolving landscape of the music business, emphasizing the diminishing value of recorded music in the face of AI advancements. They highlight the importance of live performances and the emotional connections that artists create with their audiences, which cannot be replicated by technology.
Takeaways
You're in the AJ Wetzel business, not just music.
Recorded music is becoming almost valueless.
AI is set to replace many aspects of music.
The live performance creates a unique emotional connection.
Human interaction in...
Prost! Podcast Episode #8 - Nyssa Craton - Wildcat Creek Winery - Community and Craft: The Heart of Wildcat Creek Winery
Nov 30, 2025Summary
In this engaging episode, Scott Eckart interviews Nyssa Craton, owner of Wildcat Creek Winery. They discuss the challenges and joys of winemaking, Nyssa's journey from food science to winery ownership, and the unique aspects of running a small winery in Indiana. Nyssa shares insights into her winemaking philosophy, the importance of community engagement, and her plans for the future of Wildcat Creek Winery.
Keywords
winemaking, Wildcat Creek Winery, Nyssa Craton, Indiana wine, food science, winery ownership, community engagement, winemaking philosophy, small winery, wine industry
Takeaways
... Duration: 00:55:28Prost! Podcast Episode #7 - John Ford - The Soul of Blues: A Journey with John Ford
Nov 22, 2025Summary:
In this engaging podcast episode, blues musician John Ford shares his journey from a young music enthusiast in Cincinnati to a seasoned performer on the road. He discusses the challenges of the current gigging industry, the emotional depth of blues music, and the importance of live performance. John reflects on his musical influences, the significance of historical blues figures, and his experiences recording in locations tied to blues history. He also addresses the impact of AI on music and expresses hope for the future of live performances as a unique art form.
Prost! Podcast Episode #6 - Andy Butler & Mabel Ojeda: Winemaking Wisdom - Lessons from Napa to the Midwest
Nov 16, 2025In this episode of the PROST! podcast, Scott Eckart visits Butler Winery in Bloomington, Indiana, to chat with Andy Butler and Mabel Ojeda (Butler). They discuss the challenges and triumphs of the recent harvest, the unique history of Butler Winery, and the Butlers' journey from Napa Valley back to Indiana. The conversation delves into the intricacies of winemaking in the Midwest, the importance of community, and the future of Indiana wines.
Keywords
Butler Winery, Indiana wine, winemaking, Napa Valley, harvest challenges, Midwest viticulture, community, wine history, sparkling wine, wine industry
...
Duration: 01:11:04Prost! Podcast Episode #5 - Cody Lakes (Vegabond Group): From Bluegrass Roots to Musical Community
Nov 09, 2025Summary:
In this engaging podcast episode, Scott Eckart interviews Cody Lakes, a musician with deep roots in bluegrass and a passion for songwriting. They discuss Cody's musical heritage, his journey through the music scene, and the importance of community in fostering talent. Cody shares his experiences in Nashville, the evolution of open mics into showcases, and the collaborative spirit among local musicians. The conversation highlights the challenges and joys of pursuing music, the significance of supporting one another, and the hope for a thriving music scene in Richmond, Indiana.
Takeaways:
Cody's musical journey...
Prost! Podcast Episode #4 - Heagy Vineyards: Eric Heagy's Passion for Winemaking and Education!
Nov 02, 2025Summary
In this engaging conversation, Scott Eckart and Eric Heagy discuss their shared passion for winemaking, the challenges of vineyard management, and the unique qualities of hybrid grapes. Eric shares his journey from agriculture to winemaking, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and regional expression in wine. They explore the impact of climate on grape growing, the intricacies of vineyard practices, and the future of the wine industry, particularly the growing acceptance of hybrid wines among new wine drinkers.
Keywords
winemaking, hybrid grapes, vineyard management, climate impact...
Duration: 01:16:29Prost! Podcast Episode #3 - From Chicago to Indiana: The Musical Odyssey of DJ Tarsis
Oct 24, 2025Summary: In this engaging podcast episode, DJ Tarsis shares his musical journey, from his immigrant upbringing in Chicago to his passion for DJing and VJing. He discusses the influence of the Chicago music scene, his transition from a music lover to a DJ, and the evolution of music sharing through radio and podcasting. Tarsis emphasizes the importance of community engagement through charity events and adapting to new platforms like Twitch during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also shares insights on his favorite bands and offers advice for aspiring DJs and music lovers, highlighting the richness of music available today.
Prost! Podcast Episode #2 - Winemaker Cody Leaderbrand - Family, Wine, and Tradition in Indiana
Oct 19, 2025Summary
In this engaging conversation, Scott Eckart interviews Cody Lederbrand from Owen Valley Winery, exploring the intricacies of winemaking in Indiana. They discuss the family-oriented nature of the winery, the importance of local grapes, and the challenges of vineyard management. Cody shares insights on branding, terroir, and innovative winemaking techniques, emphasizing the significance of community and personal philosophies in the industry. The discussion highlights the evolution of Owen Valley Winery and its commitment to producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the region.
Keywords
Owen Valley Winery, Indiana wine, winemaking, family...
Prost! Podcast Episode #1 - Exploring Indiana's Wine Boom with Dr. Jim Pennell
Oct 13, 2025Summary:
In this engaging conversation, Scott Eckart interviews Jim Pennell, a sociologist and musician, about his book 'Local Vino' and the burgeoning wine culture in Indiana. They discuss the rise of local wineries, the challenges faced in wine production, and the cultural significance of wine as a social connector. Jim shares insights from his experiences in both academia and music, emphasizing the importance of persistence and community in achieving success. The conversation also touches on the intersection of music and wine, highlighting how both can create meaningful experiences for people.
Takeaways:
-Jim Pennell's...