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U.S. of N/A: Non-Alcoholic and THC DrinksAuthor: N/ATION Collaborative, LLC
The U.S. of N/A podcast series is about the people and places putting non-alcoholic drinks and related alcohol-alternatives on the map, one crafted sip at a time. In each episode we'll sit down with founders who are helping raise the quality, profile, and accessibility of non-alcoholic beer, wine, spirits, and THC infused drinks. Brought to you by N/ATION Collaborative, LLC. Language: en-us Genres: Arts, Food, Health & Fitness Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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What If The Bar Of The Future Isn't Built Around Alcohol?
Episode 3
Thursday, 5 March, 2026
After a corporate career rooted in fashion and media, Aplós Co-Founder and CEO David Fudge is now helping to move the non-alcoholic industry beyond simple imitation. In this conversation, we explore how Aplós is creating a sophisticated new flavor language using ingredients like yuzu, basil, and dandelion, designed to act as a lead in premium cocktails rather than a 1:1 alcohol proxy.We dive into topics like the strategic choice of using THC-free, broad-spectrum hemp in their first offering, to how the brand’s serene, minimalist aesthetic serves as a much-needed antidote to modern, high-stress culture. David also shares a little about the Aplós roadmap for 2026 and his vision for a "bar of the future" that prioritizes intentional rituals over intoxication.Key Takeaways:The "Lead" Spirit: Why Aplós was built to perform like a primary spirit in complex mixology, developed alongside mixology legend Lynnette Marrero.Function Without the High: The decision to lean into broad-spectrum hemp (0% THC) for its stress-relieving properties while (thus far) avoiding the psychoactive effects of THC.Cracking the Balance: A look at the R&D behind their spirits versus their RTD (ready-to-drink) cans, and which one was harder to break the code on.2026 Growth: Scaling through "long-game" brand building and moving from DTC roots to a broader footprint in retail and Michelin-starred hospitality.Mentioned in this episode:Aplós We'd like to thank our sponsor, Go Brewing! Use code NATION15 to get 15% off your order on either their delicious N/A beer, or their THC brand, Easy Man. We'd love your feedback!
