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Whiskey Morgue Podcast

whiskeymorgue

Welcome to Whiskey Morgue Podcast, where Mike pours his favorite whiskeys and dissects the horror genre that shapes us. Join him as he sits down with captivating guests from the entertainment and spirits industries, exploring the pairing of whiskey and horror, along with the creative processes that bring these worlds to life. Whether you’re a horror aficionado or a spirits enthusiast, you’ll find yourself right at home conjuring spirits in the Whiskey Morgue.

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#35
August 17 · 32 min
After the Last Rental - Phantasm 3: Lord of the Dead (1994)
This week on After the Last Rental, Zack pulls Phantasm 3: Lord of the Dead off and cracks some cold beers with Mike—just as Reggie would. We celebrate Reggie Bannister and one of horror’s most beloved cult characters, diving into his evolution from wisecracking ice cream man to shotgun-wielding Tall Man hunter, and why Phantasm 3 perfectly blends horror, sci-fi, zombies and weird comedy. Reggie might be gone, but his legacy is never over. 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more classic movie reviews and pairings. Check out the video store: @terrorracksvideo subscribe to: Terror Racks YouTube Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com #Phantasm #Phantasm3 #ReggieBannister #CultHorror #HorrorMovies #DonCoscarelli #HorrorPodcast #AfterTheLastRental
#34
August 7 · 54 min
Episode 28 - Buddy Nielsen of Senses Fail
Senses Fail's Buddy Nielsen Talks Still Searching, Fatherhood & Horror Movies On this episode of the Whiskey Morgue Podcast, Mike sits down with Senses Fail frontman Buddy Nielsen to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Still Searching and reflect on the legacy of an album that has meant so much to so many fans. While Buddy is literally out on a camping trip, the conversation takes a fitting detour into the world of campy horror and Sleepaway Camp before exploring nostalgia, fatherhood, literature, creativity, and the challenge of honoring the past while continuing to grow. Equal parts thoughtful, funny, and reflective, this is a conversation about the music, movies, and moments that stay with us long after the credits roll. Make sure to catch them on their 20th anniversary tour of Still Searching this Fall. Stay Spooky! Follow Buddy: @budthechud Follow the band: @sensesfail https://sensesfaillmtd.com/ Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow on Instagram: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com #SensesFail #BuddyNielsen #StillSearching #WhiskeyMorgue #PostHardcore #Emo #EmoRevival #AlternativeMusic #MusicPodcast #BandInterview
#33
July 28 · 35 min
After The Last Rental - The Gate (1987)
This week on After the Last Rental, we're cracking open the 1987 cult classic The Gate and pairing it with a pour of Buffalo Trace Bourbon—Mike's gateway whiskey into bourbon. Using our 3 Sips System, we revisit the movie's unforgettable practical effects, Satanic Panic atmosphere, and surprisingly effective nightmare fuel, while debating whether its tiny demons, meandering story, and over-the-top finale still hold up today. Is The Gate an overlooked '80s gem or just a nostalgic rental best left on the shelf? Grab a glass and join us as we decide if this cult favorite deserves to be served Neat, On the Rocks, or Watered Down. 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more classic movie reviews and pairings. Get the new After The Last Rental TV Tee here! Check out the video store: @terrorracksvideo subscribe to: Terror Racks YouTube Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com
#32
July 16 · 57 min
Episode 26, Part II - Marcus Slabine's Wild Horror Journey
TERRIFIER 3 Secrets, Horror Legends & the Most Whiskey Ever Drank on the Podcast This week on the Whiskey Morgue Podcast, Mike sits down with filmmaker and producer Marcus Slabine to talk horror, filmmaking, and the winding road that led him from working on blockbuster productions like The Dark Knight Rises and The Amazing Spider-Man 2 to projects including STREAM, Dark Offerings, Terrifier 3, and his upcoming feature, Sundown. Marcus shares stories from filming during COVID, working with horror icons, and the challenges of keeping continuity intact on the Terrifier films. He also discusses the influence of The Evil Dead on his filmmaking style, reflects on family and friendship, and somehow manages to set a new Whiskey Morgue record by becoming the first guest to completely conquer the entire Fright Flight. Watch the full trailer for Sundown here! Stay Spooky! Follow: @marcusslabine Follow: @fuzz_on_the_lens Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow on Instagram: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com
#31
June 12 · 1 hr 3 min
Episode 27 - In Search of Darkness: The Golden Age of Horror with David Weiner
David Weiner joins me on the Whiskey Morgue Podcast to discuss In Search of Darkness: The Golden Age of Horror, the upcoming documentary celebrating 1970s horror cinema. Over a few drinks, we talk about the films, filmmakers, and cultural impact that helped define the golden age of horror. If you’re a fan of 70s horror movies, horror documentaries, and classics like Halloween (1978), The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974), Black Christmas (1974), and Carrie (1976), this episode is for you. Pre-orders for In Search of Darkness: The Golden Age of Horror are available now through July 1st. Be sure to secure your copy before the campaign ends, and let us know in the comments what your favorite horror film from the 1970s is. Stay Spooky! Preorder now and get your name in the credits! Learn more about Creator VC Subscribe to: Creator VC on YouTube Follow David Weiner on Instagram Follow Creator VC on Instagram Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow on Instagram: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com
#30
June 5 · 50 min
Episode 26 - Marcus Slabine's Wild Horror Journey
TERRIFIER 3 Secrets, Horror Legends & the Most Whiskey Ever Drank on the Podcast This week on the Whiskey Morgue Podcast, Mike sits down with filmmaker and producer Marcus Slabine to talk horror, filmmaking, and the winding road that led him from working on blockbuster productions like The Dark Knight Rises and The Amazing Spider-Man 2 to projects including STREAM, Dark Offerings, Terrifier 3, and his upcoming feature, Sundown. Marcus shares stories from filming during COVID, working with horror icons, and the challenges of keeping continuity intact on the Terrifier films. He also discusses the influence of The Evil Dead on his filmmaking style, reflects on family and friendship, and somehow manages to set a new Whiskey Morgue record by becoming the first guest to completely conquer the entire Fright Flight. Stay Spooky! Follow: @marcusslabine Follow: @fuzz_on_the_lens Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow on Instagram: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com
#29
May 23 · 36 min
After the Last Rental - House of Wax (2005)
The Most Overhated Horror Remake of the 2000s? In this episode of After the Last Rental, Zack pulls House of Wax off the shelf while Mike pours a glass of Maker’s Mark. From Paris Hilton’s infamous “See Paris Die” marketing to the sticky practical effects overshadowed by the glossy early-2000s cast, the guys revisit a remake that may deserve more credit than its reputation suggests. Along the way they talk doomed road trips, hillbilly horror, the death of the curated movie soundtrack, and why the town of Ambrose feels like a cursed roadside attraction somewhere between Tourist Trap and Clifton Hill. Will House of Wax stand the heat… or melt under the flame? 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more classic movie reviews and pairings. Check out the video store: @terrorracksvideo subscribe to: Terror Racks YouTube Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com
S1 · E28
May 10 · 1 hr 17 min
Episode 25 - Matt Kusek | Dunks, Svengoolie & Hot Takes
This week on the Whiskey Morgue Podcast, I’m joined by whiskey reviewer, sneaker enthusiast, former Malt Review contributor, and Bourbon Pursuit regular Matt Kusek for a conversation that blends horror, whiskey, wrestling, and sneaker culture. We talk about growing up with Chicago horror icon Svengoolie, the magic of late-night horror hosts, and the uniquely weird cultural identity of Chicago. We also dive into whiskey trends deserving of a rubber chicken, legendary Halloween Nike releases, the mythic Freddy Krueger SB Dunks, and the similarities between sneaker hype and bourbon hunting. Plus: underrated whiskey picks, favourite wrestlers, and Matt’s ultimate white whale sneaker. Stay Spooky! Check out Matt Kusek: Follow: @mattkusek Listen to: @theswooshlifepodcast Watch: The Swoosh Life Podcast on YouTube Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com
#27
April 19 · 27 min
After the Last Rental - Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare
On this episode of After the Last Rental, Zack and Mike re-visit Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare, the one that was supposed to actually bury the franchise, but somehow brought it roaring back to life. Zack pulls a final chapter that leans into bigger lore, bigger cameos, and bigger spectacle, while Mike pairs it with a pour of Weller Antique. Together, they break down a sequel that trades scares for style, where Freddy becomes more cartoon than nightmare, kills land like punchlines, and reality bends into full-on dream logic. From MTV-era energy and celebrity appearances to a deeper dive into Freddy’s origins, the duo breaks it all down through their “3 Sips System” to decide if this finale still holds up—or fades into parody. Check out the video store: @terrorracksvideo subscribe to: Terror Racks YouTube Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com
#26
April 3 · 39 min
Episode 24 - Vinny Pacifico | A Pro Wrestler Made a Horror Movie
On this episode of the Whiskey Morgue Podcast, Mike sits down with professional wrestler and actor Vinny Pacifico to talk about his journey from the wrestling ring to the world of horror with his upcoming indie horror film Mr. Reset and the Society of Turnbuckle & Bone. Vinny shares stories from working shows connected to All Elite Wrestling, training with some of the industry’s best, and developing his “Don’t Count Vinny Out” mindset. The conversation dives into the crossover between wrestling theatrics and horror storytelling, how Mr. Reset came together, and Vinny even takes on a rapid-fire round featuring dream wrestling heels, zombie apocalypse tag partners, and who wins in a street fight—Michael Myers or The Undertaker. Pour a drink and join us for a fun mix of wrestling, horror, and behind-the-scenes stories. Stay Spooky! Follow: @vinnypacifico Follow: @mrresetofficial Learn more about Mr. Reset: Mr. Reset Online Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow on Instagram: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com
#25
February 20 · 33 min
After the Last Rental - Ep 2 - Candyman 2
Mike from Whiskey Morgue is teaming up with Zack Lovitz of Terror Racks Video in this episode of, After the Last Rental. We're pouring a drink, reviewing a VHS from Zack's video store, and discussing why these classic movies still matter. In this episode, Mike and Zack rewind the tape on Candyman: Farewell to the Flesh, pairing the Mardi Gras–set sequel with a pour of Starlight Honey Finish Bourbon. Through their “3 Sips System,” they revisit childhood impressions, unpack the film’s mythology, religion, and themes of belief and reckoning, and explore how Candyman’s presence lingers beneath the celebration. From unforgettable kills and eerie symbolism to overlooked depth dismissed by critics in the ’90s, the hosts ask whether this sequel was ahead of its time and decide if it earns a rating of Neat, On the Rocks, or Watered Down. 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more classic movie reviews and pairings. Check out the video store: @terrorracksvideo subscribe to: Terror Racks YouTube Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com
#24
February 4 · 22 min
After the Last Rental - Ep 1 - Ernest Scared Stupid
Mike from Whiskey Morgue is teaming up with Zack Lovitz of Terror Racks Video in this new series, After the Last Rental. We're pouring a drink, pulling a VHS from Zack's video store, and digging into why these classic movies still matter. We kick off the series with a childhood favorite, Ernest Scared Stupid while sipping some Eagle Rare 10 year bourbon. After the Last Rental is where the video store lights flicker off, the last tape gets slid back on the shelf, and the real conversation begins. Pour something, hit play, and follow along. Check out the video store: @terrorracksvideo subscribe to: Terror Racks YouTube Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com #ernestscaredstupid #moviereview #vhsreview #videostore #ernest #vhs #classicmovies
#23
January 9 · 36 min
Episode 23 - The Making of The Mean One with Steven LaMorte
Christmas might be over, but the chaos lives on. In this episode of The Whiskey Morgue Podcast, Mike is joined by director and producer Steven LaMorte to talk about Christmas Chaos: The Making of The Mean One, a behind-the-scenes look at turning a viral Hallmark-horror trailer into a full-blown feature. From bootstrapping a production with almost no budget—building caves in living rooms to racing through post-production in mere days, Steven breaks down the creative chaos, unexpected viral success, and personal stakes of making the film. It’s a masterclass in DIY filmmaking, creative perseverance, and how a twisted holiday idea caught fire at exactly the right moment. First watch The Mean One, and then give The Making of The Mean One a watch. Stay Spooky! Christmas Chaos: The Making of The Mean One - Watch on Prime Video Follow Steven: @stevenlarmorte Follow The Mean One: @themeanonemovie Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow on Instagram: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com #themeanone #stevenlamorte #podcastinterview #horrorpodcast #davidhowardthorton #thegrinch #horrorcommunity #horrorpodcast #documentary #indiefilm
S2 · E22
Dec 15, 2025 · 1 hr
Episode 22 - Filmland Spirits
On this episode of Whiskey Morgue, Mike cracks open Moonlight Mayhem bourbon with the minds behind Filmland Spirits — Charlie Flint and Steve Canepa. We dig into how Film Land blends whiskey culture with cinematic nostalgia, why the story and the liquid have to speak the same language, and which horror tropes they’d happily bury six feet under in the spirits world. The conversation dives into their blending philosophy, behind-the-scenes “director’s commentary” moments, and the pulp art and vintage movie posters that shaped the brand’s aesthetic. Along the way, we talk favorite werewolf movies and tease the next “feature presentation” coming in 2026. Pour a drink, dim the lights, and step into Filmland. Get Free Shipping on 2 or more bottles this holiday season: Visit: www.filmlandspirits.com Promo code: HOLIDAY25 Follow on Instagram: @filmlandspirits Learn More: www.filmlandspirits.com Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow on Instagram: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com
#21
Dec 1, 2025 · 58 min
Episode 21 - Richard T. Wilson, Author of Halloween Girl
On this episode of The Whiskey Morgue, Mike is joined by Richard T. Wilson, writer and creator of Halloween Girl and founder of Mad Shelley Comics. They dive into Richard’s path from Emmy-winning educational programming to horror storytelling, exploring how grief, identity, and catharsis shaped the evolution of Charlotte and the expanding world of Halloween Girl Book 3: Gods and Monsters. Richard reflects on the series’ origins as a short film—one that notably marked Lauren LaVera’s (of the Terrifier franchise) first acting gig—and discusses the shift from screenwriting to comics. The conversation also hits on possessed-toy horror, arachnophobia, and the personal losses that informed the story’s emotional core, all while sipping on some Angel’s Envy, one of Richard’s favorites. Stay Spooky! Get your copy of: Halloween Girl Follow: @madshelleycomics Watch: Under the Flowers Learn more about: Outreach Arts and Maple Ave Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com #madshelleycomics #halloweengirl #horrorcomics #horrorpodcast #indiewriters #indiecomic #ruemorgue #angelsenvy
#20
Nov 14, 2025 · 45 min
Episode 20 - Find Familiar Spirits with Justin Ware
This week on The Whiskey Morgue Podcast, I sit down with Justin Ware — producer and co-founder of Find Familiar Spirits, the creative force behind the fantasy-inspired Quest’s End and the hauntingly immersive Macabre Spirits. We dive into how Justin and Matthew Lillard built entire worlds around their whiskies, blending storytelling, art, and community into every bottle. From the origins of Dawn of the Unbound Gods to collaborations with horror-rockers Ice Nine Kills, we also explore how fandom plays a central role in shaping their growing universe — where drinkers become part of the story itself. Whether you’re a D&D fan or a horror lover, this episode proves that the magic happens when creativity, authenticity, and craft collide. Stay Spooky! Check out: Find Familiar Spirits Follow: @macabrespirits @questsendwhiskey Watch: Find Familiar Spirits on YouTube Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com #matthewlillard #macabrespirits #findfamiliarspirits #horrorpodcast #whiskeypodcast #podcastinterview #whiskeyreview #bourbonreview
S2 · E19
Oct 29, 2025 · 56 min
Episode 19 - Sips and Treats with Whiskey Mutant | Halloween Special
This week, I’m joined by my friend Eric, the Whiskey Mutant for our first ever Halloween special as we dive mask-first into Halloween III: Season of the Witch — the black sheep of the franchise that ditched Michael for Celtic curses, killer masks, and pure 80s weirdness. Join us, as we pair Halloween treats with whiskey and get as unhinged as frisky Tom Atkins with a six-pack and a theory. Happy Halloween! Follow: @whiskeymutant Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com #halloween #halloween3 #seasonofthewitch #willettwhiskey #willett #tomatkins #halloweenspecial #fourroses #fourrosesbourbon #halloweensnacks #snacks #whiskeypodcast #whiskeyreview #horrorpodcast
#18
Oct 10, 2025 · 1 hr 23 min
Episode 18 - United States of Bourbon
This week, Mike shares a few pours with The United States of Bourbon — Mitch Gerads (Eisner Award–winning DC Comics artist), Brandon Boone (World Soundtrack Award–winning composer), and Graham Rowat (actor and acclaimed narrator). They do a deep dive into how art, music, and storytelling collide over a good pour. They share how the series came to life through their shared roots in the NoSleep Podcast community, the creative freedom that comes from collaboration, and the distilleries that left a lasting impression — from Peerless and its resident cat, Rye, to the legendary “Bill Murray barrel” at Woodford. Along the way, Mitch talks comics and branding, Brandon reflects on his award-winning soundtracks, and Graham brings his signature storytelling flair to the conversation. It’s an episode full of laughs, creativity, and Taylor Swift references. Watch episodes of: United States of Bourbon Listen to: The NoSleep Podcast Check out: @usofbourbon @mitchgerads @growat @brandonboonemusic Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com #dccomics #slaytheprincess #nosleep #nosleeppodcast #bourbonpursuit #pursuitunited #bourbonreview #whiskeypodcast #horrorpodcast #bourbon
S2 · E17
Sep 26, 2025 · 1 hr 9 min
Episode 17 - Producer & Director, Steven LaMorte
In this episode, Mike sits down with award-winning filmmaker Steven LaMorte to talk about his horror parodies The Mean One and Screamboat, starring David Howard Thornton. With a few epic pours of Heaven Hill Distillery in hand, they dive into Steven’s early storytelling roots, his jump from working with Sony and WWE into horror, and how he balances camp, gore, and humor on screen. They also dig into the “party watch” appeal of his films, the value of practical effects, and the twisted fun of giving childhood classics a sinister edge without losing the magic. Expect plenty of drinks, laughs, and stories about Steven’s Nonna’s legendary Italian cooking. Oh yeah, Screamboat is now streaming on Peacock! Check out: @stevenlamorte and: @screamboatmovie Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com #screamboat #themeanone #stevenlamorte #fuzzonthelens #indiehorror #director #Davidhowardthorton #heavenhill #heavenhilldistillery #whiskeyreview #podcastinterview #horrorpodcast #whiskeypodcast
S2 · E1
Sep 11, 2025 · 1 hr 54 min
Episode 16 - Chris Dudley of Underoath
Season 2 of The Whiskey Morgue Podcast kicks off with Chris Dudley of Underoath! We talk about the band’s Three Chord bourbon release, the making of their new album The Place After This One, and how recording in a cottage brought them back to their roots. Chris also dives into his passion for film scoring, from his work on Plastic Men to the movies that inspire him, plus we trade thoughts on some of our recent horror watches. Check out: @chrisunderoath and: @underoath Subscribe to: Whiskey Morgue YouTube Follow: @whiskeymorgue Check out the merch: www.whiskeymorgue.com #underoath #chrisdudley #threechord #threechordbourbon #whiskeypodcast #whiskeyreview #horrorpodcast #podcastinterview #moviereviews #artistinterview #rarecharacter

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