Award-Winning Radio Show and Podcast Joins HRN’s Growing Network of Food and Beverage Programming
NEW YORK, NY – July 16, 2026 – Heritage Radio Network (HRN), a subsidiary of The Food Institute, today announced a strategic partnership with “Beverage Chronicles,” a nationally distributed radio show and podcast dedicated to exploring the stories, people, and traditions behind the world’s most beloved drinks.
“Beverage Chronicles” exists for one reason above all else: to tell the stories behind the drinks we love. Every episode blends journalism, history, industry insight, and personality to bring listeners closer to the makers, traditions, and trends shaping the global beverage landscape – from centuries-old wine regions and craft breweries to small-batch distilleries and the new wave of ready-to-drink cocktails.
The show is hosted by Gary Monterosso, an award-winning drinks journalist, author, and television personality with decades of experience covering the beverage world. Gary’s work has appeared on the History Channel, BBC, SiriusXM, CBS News, PBS, and numerous national and international platforms. He brings a rare combination of deep industry knowledge, curiosity, and storytelling that makes “Beverage Chronicles” both educational and entertaining for casual drinkers and industry professionals alike.
Co-hosting alongside Gary is Michelle Lam, an award-winning public relations professional and Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) honoree specializing in spirits, cocktails, and emerging beverage trends. Michelle’s work connects listeners with the distillers, blenders, bartenders, and brand builders who are shaping the future of the beverage industry.
“Beverage Chronicles” is further distinguished by a team of expert contributors spanning the full breadth of the beverage world:
- Rachel Benkowski (beer & history): Certified cicerone, historian, and co-founder of Beer Babes Family
- Peter LaFrance (beer & food): Author of Beer Basics and Cooking and Eating with Beer
- John J. Mahoney (wine education): Author of 11 wine books and annual reviewer of 1,500+ wines
- Katie Johnson (beer): Craft beer reviewer with insights on styles, flavor profiles, and industry trends
- Robin Shreeves (wine): Award-winning wine journalist and certified wine professional
- Leslie Jespersen (media): PR strategist specializing in visibility and revenue through media and live events
- Christina Martin (food & beverage): Chef educator, healthy food advocate, and food writer
- Josh Seaburg (spirits): Certified spirits specialist and beverage consultant specializing in cocktail innovation, spirits education, and bottled Old Fashioned development
“Beverage Chronicles” is available on all major podcast platforms and is now distributed through HRN’s network.