The Cocktail Academy Tiny Cocktails, Big Ideas with Tyler Zielinski
Tyler Zielinski has built one of the most interesting careers in modern drinks. In this episode, Damian chats with the author of Tiny Cocktails about his path from early bartending roles in Boston, to advertising in New York, to becoming a writer, consultant, educator, and content creator working across the global drinks industry.
They talk about what it really takes to build a career beyond the bar, why modern bartenders need to think differently about networking and visibility, and how Tyler carved out a lane that blends hospitality, media, and brand work.
The conversation also digs into the rise of tiny cocktails — what they actually are, why they are more than just glorified shots, and how they can create real value for bars and guests alike. Tyler also shares how the book opened the door to projects like Wheels Up and the Up Mini Bar, showing how one idea can evolve into something much bigger.
A great listen for bartenders, operators, drinks creatives, and anyone curious about where cocktail culture is heading next.
In this episode:
- Tyler’s route into hospitality
- From Boston bars to New York advertising
- Why content creation in drinks is harder than it looks
- Building a career outside the traditional bar path
- Why bartenders need to diversify their network
- What tiny cocktails actually are
- How smaller serves can work in a bar program
- Pricing, access, and tasting-menu applications
- The Wheels Up partnership and Up Mini Bar
- Why unusual ideas can lead to major opportunities
Follow Tyler:
- Instagram: @bon_vivantito
- Industry content: @zeststories
Follow The Cocktail Academy:
- Instagram: @welovecocktails
- TikTok: @welovecocktailsx
- Facebook: @welovecocktailsx
- Website: www.thecocktailacademy.com
- Email: sayhello@thecocktailacademy.com
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