Season 1 · Episode 539

539 - Special Ops, Hemp, and Bourbon with Greg Keeley of Larrakin Bourbon Company

Today we're joined by Greg Keeley, the founder and distiller of Larrikin Bourbon Company. Greg’s background is wild: He’s taking us through his early days in Australia’s Margaret River wine industry and his 22-year career in the military, and explaining how those very different experiences shaped his philosophy on whiskey. Greg recounts the path that took him from military life in Washington, D.C., to the hemp industry, and then—in a move fueled by pure passion—to founding a bourbon company. We dive deep into the name "Larrikin," which is an Australian term for a rebellious, mischievous person, and how that spirit is bottled into every drop. We get candid about the major challenges of launching a brand, including the necessary rebranding from Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company to its current, distinct identity. With plenty of laughs and valuable insights, Greg highlights why authenticity, quality, and a strong sense of camaraderie are key to surviving (and thriving) in the modern bourbon landscape.

Bourbon Pursuit

November 6, 20251h 17mExplicit

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Show Notes

Here's a story that goes from the vineyards of Australia to the front lines of the military, and suddenly lands right in bourbon country. Today we're joined by Greg Keeley, the founder and distiller of Larrikin Bourbon Company. Greg’s background is wild: He’s taking us through his early days in the Margaret River wine industry and his incredible 22-year career in the military, explaining how those very different experiences shaped his philosophy on whiskey. Greg recounts the path that took him from military life in Washington, D.C., to the hemp industry, and then—in a move fueled by pure passion—to founding his own bourbon company. We finally figure out what the name "Larrikin," stands for and how that translates to what the brand tries to achieve. We get candid about the major challenges of launching a brand, including the rebranding from Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company along with being a small fish in a big pond.

Show Notes:

Introduction to Greg Keeley and his journey from Australia to the US
Growing up in Margaret River: Surfer, wine enthusiast, and military life
Transition from military service to working in Washington, D.C.
The serendipitous shift to bourbon: From hemp to Larrikin Bourbon
Meaning and significance of the term "Larrikin"
The rebranding process from Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company to Larrikin
Overcoming the challenges of launching a new brand within tight time constraints
The supportive community in the bourbon industry and reflections on quality craft
Future aspirations for Larrikin Bourbon and maintaining authenticity
Anecdotes from Greg's military life and how they inform his business ethos
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