Shaking Things Up

Bartender

3/4/25

If you've ever ordered a drink at a bar or restaurant, you've benefitted from the hard work of a bartender. Tom Ostoyich, a professional bartender for 20+ years, shares his inside knowledge of being a bartender and what it's like to be behind the bar instead of sitting at it.

Bartending isn’t just partying and free drinks—it’s hard work. Tom shares the “behind the scene“ tasks of a bartender and the importance of responsible drinking and guest safety. 

If you enjoy an active job with a knack for talking to people, professional bartending could be a good option!

Topics
00:43 Introduction
02:50 Getting into bartending, the learning process
04:49 Earnings
06:19 Other potential roles and advancement
10:25 Biggest misconception
11:00 A day in the life
13:33 Do you like being a bartender?
15:40 Are there trends in bartending?
17:12 Handling the challenges
19:44 Some stories from years
21:00 Ensuring a safe environment for all

Resources
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Bartenders
United States Bartenders' Guild
How to Become a Bartender (with No Experience)

Music credit: Kate Pierson & Monica Nation