Liquor retail is uniquely challenging. Licenses are tightly controlled, and territory protection runs deep.

"The lessons were many. The pain was immense. It felt like a personal failure, even knowing we were far from alone."

BUT I AM STILL HIGH...

We advocate for fair distribution of resources, equitable employment opportunities, and stronger industry accountability in supporting diverse talent. In a global market made up of people of all backgrounds, it is both possible and necessary to ensure the same diversity among those who make, sell, and celebrate these products. Listen to how Alicia Towns Franken is walking the walk at Wine Unify.

This month I’m joined by my publicist, Ron Childs, founder and CEO of OMEN Communications, a Chicago-based media relations and consulting firm. An award-winning journalist and communications strategist, Ron has served as Executive Editor of The Chicago Defender, Senior Media Relations Strategist at Burrell Communications, and Vice President of Media Relations at Flowers Communications Group. A proud Grambling State University graduate and Mass Communication Hall of Fame inductee, he brings decades of expertise in multicultural media, public relations, and editorial leadership—helping organizations craft narratives that resonate across diverse audiences.

On this episode, Ron and I reflect on my first year as an author: the steps I took to release my book, the obstacles I faced, and how the wine industry has evolved since I first entered it more than 25 years ago. We also dig into the differences and synergies between PR and marketing—and why both are essential to building lasting impact.