We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Che Ramos. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Che below.
Che, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Any thoughts around creating more inclusive workplaces?
Creating a more inclusive workplace begins with an authentic commitment to understanding and valuing diverse perspectives. My journey, particularly in the beverage industry, has taught me that inclusivity isn’t just about representation; it’s about fostering an environment where every voice is safe, heard and respected.
In a truly inclusive workplace, leaders actively listen and encourage open dialogue, enabling team members to bring their whole selves to work. This was evident in a few of my past roles where my superiors failed to understand the myriad ways in which beverage programs can be unwelcoming to different sections of the population. This experience was impactful because it demonstrated the need for greater DEI education within not only the beverage community, but the world of food & beverage as a whole..
To foster inclusivity, I recommend creating platforms for continuous learning and discussion around diversity and inclusion topics. A little bit of knowledge can foster so much empathy. Always encourage mentorship and allyship within teams, and ensure that policies and practices reflect a genuine commitment to diversity. By doing so, we not only enhance the workplace culture but also drive creativity and growth.
Building an inclusive workplace is an ongoing journey, not a destination. It requires dedication, empathy, and an unwavering belief in the power of diverse voices to make a difference.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
What’s happening? I’m Che, the founder of The Black Bourbon Guy, and I’m excited to share my journey with you. My passion for the beverage industry was ignited almost 25 years ago in the vibrant streets of Paris, where I learned that you can drink both for fun, and well. Life eventually led me to the culturally rich community of Durham, NC, where I’ve continued to refine my craft.
The Black Bourbon Guy is more than just a name; it’s a mission to educate and inspire others about the deep, complex world of spirits. I offer a variety of services, including spirit educational events, cocktail classes, bar & restaurant consulting, and even my own line of cocktail syrups. Each service is designed to create personalized and unforgettable experiences, whether for individuals or businesses.
At the heart of my work is a commitment to education, fostering greater diversity and inclusion within the spirits industry—a field that greatly needs it. By sharing my knowledge and passion, I aim to break down barriers and welcome more diverse voices into this exciting world. My approach is rooted in the belief that everyone, from novices to seasoned enthusiasts, can find joy and connection through spirits.
What sets The Black Bourbon Guy apart is our dedication to not just serving beverages but also creating community, giving back, and understanding through the art of the drink. I’m particularly proud of the impact my educational initiatives have had, helping to cultivate a more inclusive and knowledgeable spirits community.
For those following our journey, know that The Black Bourbon Guy is about much more than enjoying a good drink. It’s about learning, connecting, and contributing to a more diverse and dynamic industry. Join me, and let’s explore the soulful essence of bourbon together!
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
One of the most important lessons I had to unlearn is the belief that I didn’t belong in every room to which I was invited. Early in my journey as an entrepreneur in the spirits industry, I often felt like an outsider, questioning whether my voice and ideas were truly valued.
This mindset shifted during a significant moment when I attended a high-profile industry event in Kentucky this summer. Despite initial doubts, I realized that my unique perspective and experiences were not only welcomed but necessary. I learned that being invited into a space means you have something valuable to contribute and that your presence is integral to the diversity and innovation of that environment.
As an entrepreneur, it’s crucial to embrace confidence and trust in your own worth. If you’re invited, you belong there. You can provide value, and there’s always something to learn if you remain open to the experience. This realization has empowered me to engage more fully and authentically in every opportunity, and it’s a message I strive to share with others entering the industry.
Remember, your voice matters, and your contributions can shape the future of any room you enter.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
Building an audience on social media has been an exciting journey, one rooted in authenticity and community engagement. When I first started The Black Bourbon Guy, my goal was to share my passion for spirits and bring people together through the art of the perfect drink.
I began by creating content that was true to my voice—approachable, knowledgeable, and infused with the warmth of Southern hospitality and the savvy of Brooklyn. I focused on educating my audience with engaging posts about bourbon history, tasting notes, and cocktail tips, always inviting interaction and conversation.
To maintain consistency and spark creativity, I’ve incorporated AI tools into my social media strategy. These tools help streamline content scheduling, analyze engagement metrics, and even generate fresh ideas for posts and captions. Utilizing AI has allowed me to stay consistent with posting and freed up time to focus on engaging with my audience more personally.
Consistency was key. I made sure to post regularly and engage with my audience through comments and direct messages. I also leveraged collaborations with other influencers and brands to reach new audiences and share diverse perspectives within the spirits community.
For those just starting to build their social media presence, my advice is to stay authentic and true to your passion. Engage meaningfully with your audience by asking questions and responding to their comments. Don’t be afraid to show your personality and share your journey—it’s your story that will resonate and connect with people.
Additionally, explore different content formats like videos, live streams, and stories to keep your content fresh and engaging. Remember, building a social media presence is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient, stay consistent, and most importantly, enjoy the process of connecting with your community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.blackbourbonguy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theblackbourbonguy/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBlackBourbonGuy/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-black-bourbon-guy/
Image Credits
3 images c/o Kimberly Morris