Bar Therapy

What the...?! Well, that was weird. Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K talk about some of the stranger things that bartenders end up getting tipped. From sex and drugs to … a haiku? Some strange drawings? Why do people tip what they do? And as a bartender, what’s your reaction? We got some brain science and some wild stories to share!!

Theme song “Just A Little Drink” performed by Paul Whiteman and His Orchestra (1925)

Podcast recor...

In this episode of Bar Therapy, Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K speak easy about… shhh!! Speakeasies!! Are they still around? How do you find one? Are they legal? Work arounds from Johnny Law? They discuss who goes to them, what some vibes are like and other such enticing secrets. Like a speakeasy within a bar, or a speakeasy within a speakeasy. So tune in for all the hot deets. We promise not to tell.

Theme song “Just A Little Dr...

Boy howdy, it’s getting hot outside… Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K chat about summertime drinking. How do you find the right summer spot for imbibing? Maybe find a place with misters, or some shade, and AC? Summertime drinking also comes with some risks in the heat, so they talk about medical things to also be aware of. Also some summertime tastes in regards to hot weather drinks!!

Theme song “Just A Little Drink” performed by P...

It’s the most happiest hour of the day! Or few hours. Or maybe some on some days. Happy Hour is demystified for you all on this episode of Bar Therapy as Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K talk about this mythical perfect time of day and sometimes night! What legality might be in some area, and what the heck even is the point? Well cheers! Let’s find out.

Theme song “Just A Little Drink” performed by Paul Whiteman and His Orches...

Man, it’s so loud in here. The bartender can’t hear me. I want a drink. My friend has had too much, but I don’t want to leave yet. The line is shorter at this other bar here, but I don’t want to stiff my bartender either… what to do?? Fear not, intrepid listeners, for Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K are here to give you some insider tips and tricks, let you know what’s probably going on in the head of your tender and security team...

In this episode, Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K delve into the animal kingdom and discuss our furry and feathery friends and their role in bars. Can I? Should I? What’s the legality or proper protocol if I want to take my four legged friend with me everywhere? Find out more with some fun real stories and discussion on Bar Therapy.

Theme song “Just A Little Drink” performed by Paul Whiteman and His Orchestra (1925)

Podcast re...

On this themed edition of Bar Therapy, Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K talk briefly about the history of Saint Patrick’s Day, how it’s celebrated around this country and what tricky cultural stereotyping might occur. They go into detail on how to avoid such troubling behavior and better ways to find out more about our fellow Irish-Americans and their proud traditions and contributions.

Theme song “Just A Little Drink” perfor...

Ahhh… the most alluring flame… In this warming edition of Bar Therapy, The Good Doctors Xander Gerrymander and K gather around the proverbial fire and talk flaming drinks (and how to not be that guy when ordering one at the bar), safety of having any type of open flame at the bar, the dreaded Spanish Coffee, and general ambience and warmth they provide.

Theme song “Just A Little Drink” performed by Paul Whiteman and His Orche...

On this edition of Bar Therapy, Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K talk about a darker side of revenue for bars … video lottery. They discuss why it’s there, how it works, and the psychological effects on people who think they have that winning touch, and how it preys upon the poor and vulnerable.

Theme song “Just A Little Drink” performed by Paul Whiteman and His Orchestra (1925)

Podcast recorded and produced by Breakfast Puppi...

Is your bartender acting a bit off? Are they drunk? On drugs? Or maybe… they’ve just had a concussion. Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K join up with Rachel Reckless as they talk head trauma. Both Dr. X and Rachel are recently recovering from concussions and give real talk on what it’s like on that lengthy and challenging road to recovery, whether it’s appropriate to discuss personal health issues with customers if they’re sensing y...

As we gear toward Valentine’s Day, Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K talk about first dates at the bar. In this episode they delve into meeting for the first time at bars in this online dating world, some do’s and don’ts, and how to ask your bartender to keep an eye out if this is the first time you’ve met someone, and as a bartender, what to keep tabs on (pun absolutely intended) if someone on a date might be looking uncomfortable....

It’s a new year!! And in case anyone needed a refresher (and some of you do), Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K wade into certain bits of common courtesy at the bar. Should I, as a patron, help bus? Should I try to pick up broken glass? How can I as a bartender let guests know if you’re short staffed? Can I just take a coaster? We discuss this and more on the latest episode of Bar Therapy!

Theme song “Just A Little Drink” perfo...

Is it Too Soon to have Nick Flower back on? We think not! Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K discuss the psychology of mentoring new bartenders, whether they be seasoned or just babies and, as a new bar owner, how to shape your vision when you might have a stubborn (albeit great) old hand, and if you are seasoned, how to respect the new boss’ vision of their establishment, as well as different philosophies of mentoring in general.

In this new year, Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K navigate the realm of what it’s like to pull a duel roll in performing on stage (in any capacity) and also bartending. We’re joined again with special guest Rachel Reckless and she talks about dealing with this very issue, the do’s and don’ts as a customer, and the nuances of setting boundaries.

Theme song “Just A Little Drink” performed by Paul Whiteman and His Orchestra (19...

If you’re hearing this podcast, you’ve made it to 2024!! Congrats!!... maybe. Goodness, what’s that pounding in my head? Why … what? Guh… Fear not! Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K have just the cure for what ales you! We get listener feedback from other bartenders and patrons as to their best hangover cures and preventive steps you can take to make sure you start the year out right, with some science provided by the good Dr. K. He...

On today’s episode, Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K talk about the holiday season at the bar! What is it like for your bartender, who (probably) has signed away every holiday ever? Who shows up? Is it folks with nowhere else to go or is it friends and family? And what can bar owners and managers do to show a little love for their employees or help navigate who can and should work those days? All this and more on this episode of Ba...

On this Christmas Day, Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K take a step back from their normal topics and instead, talk to you about drinks you and your friends and family might enjoy on this day! What to drink in the morning? Evening? Night caps? They share their joy with all of you and even drop a few tips and recipes for everyone!

Theme song “Just A Little Drink” performed by Paul Whiteman and His Orchestra (1925)

Podcast recor...

Opening time for a brand new Portland bar as Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K talk with Nick Flower about why the heck would anyone want to open their own bar. They go in depth with the mindset and reasons one might embark on this endeavor and the psychology of creating a place of their own. They ask … why? And why a few more times. But also what it takes to be a stand out in a city already full of bars. Vibe creation? Menu making?...

In this edition, Dr. Xander Gerrymander and Dr. K discuss the role gender plays when you’re behind the pine with their first ever very special guest, Rachael Reckless!! Rachael provides real life commentary about what it’s like bartending as a woman in a wide variety of bars, and how some customers treat women differently. Many stories are shared with a mixture of humor, absurdity and grimacing moments, including what female barten...