In honor of February’s most notable holiday, we’re taking a look at love and relationships in the bartending and spirits industry — what does it take to have a fruitful relationship when you’re dealing with a hectic bartending schedule? What about when you’re working for a brand and you find yourself on the road much of the time? We talked with a few industry members to get their take, as well as with a relationship counselor for a little professional advice. We also looked at ways to show yourself love and kindness, whether that’s treating yourself to a shopping spree, improved healthy habits or the joy that comes from helping others.

The Tales of the Cocktail podcast celebrates and highlights the people, places, products, culture and ideas that make up the spirits and bartending industries. For our debut episode, it's all about the future. What might 2017 bring to the bartending community? Contributing editor Jodi Cash spoke with industry veterans such as Chris Hannah of French 75 in New Orleans and Greg Best of Ticonderoga Club in Atlanta for their thoughts on what the future may bring to bartenders and bar owners. For those interested in making big changes in 2017, we also met with a goal coach for helpful tips on setting an intention for the year and making it happen. And to cap it all off, we met with a Voodoo high priestess in New Orleans for her prophecies on what may lie ahead in the year to come.