Bourbon: Legends from the Trail

Welcome to “Bourbon: Legends from the Trail,” the ultimate podcast where bourbon’s rich history and captivating stories are poured into every episode. Hosted by Travis Hounshell, a seasoned bourbon trail guide, this show explores the fascinating world of America’s native spirit, uncovering the legends, myths, and truths that have shaped bourbon’s legacy.

Each episode takes listeners on a journey through the heart of bourbon country, visiting iconic distilleries like Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, Jim Beam, Four Roses, and Wild Turkey and many more! Travis dives deep into the lives of industry pioneers, from the infamous to the revered, shedding light on the personalities and events that crafted some of the world’s most beloved spirits. Discover how legends like Elijah Craig and Pappy Van Winkle helped shape bourbon’s legendary status, and uncover the secrets behind famous brands, like the story behind Maker’s Mark’s signature red wax or The Great White Whale of bourbon (a bourbon that most do not even know exists, but is a collector's apex)

Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon aficionado or someone who simply loves a good story, “Bourbon: Legends from the Trail” offers a flavorful blend of education, entertainment, and surprises. You’ll hear about the passion, innovation, and resilience behind each bottle, while learning the untold stories and serendipitous moments that turned bourbon into an enduring American icon.

Pour a glass of your favorite bourbon, uncork the history, and join us for a journey through time and taste. Hit subscribe or follow button and immerse yourself in the legends behind the spirit that continues to captivate whiskey lovers worldwide. Cheers to the stories, the craftsmanship, and the legends that live in every drop of bourbon!

Host

Travis Hounshell

With 28 years in education as a middle school teacher and principal, I spent my career bringing history to life. Although I taught both math and history, my passion was always in the stories of the past. I quickly learned that textbooks alone weren’t enough, so I turned history lessons into engaging narratives. Former students still tell me how much they loved my class because of the stories.

After retiring, I couldn’t leave storytelling behind. I became a guide on Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail, leading over 350 tours in five years. Each episode is a tale as I’ve heard it on the trail, and while I research each story the best I can, some facts may not always be perfectly accurate...after all, bourbon's history is as much a myth as it is truth.

I hope you enjoy the show and the rich history bourbon and Kentucky have to offer. If so, tell others, and who knows, maybe one day we will meet out on the Trail!