In this episode of Mocktails with Marina, host Marina Castillo sits down with Lila Volkas (non-alcoholic beverage educator, holistic nutritionist) to explore the powerful intersection of mindful drinking, functional mixology, and plant-based wellness education.
Together, they dive deep into Lila’s journey from health challenges to herbal healing, her love for DIY elixirs and alcohol-free mixology, and how she now leads corporate team-building workshops that transform even the most skeptical whiskey drinkers into curious NA converts.
Whether you’re a sober-curious consumer, a non-alcoholic bar or bottle shop owner, or a functional beverage entrepreneur, this episode is a must-listen. You’ll learn how to create inclusive wellness experiences, use everyday kitchen ingredients like apple cider vinegar and citrus peels to elevate your drinks, and shift the narrative around celebration and community without alcohol.
We also discuss the rise of adaptogens, kava, herbalism in modern mixology, and how to empower your audience (or customers) with ingredient education and intentional storytelling. Lila shares her tips on making NA fun, inclusive, and healing, from her early days as a spin instructor and kombucha workshop leader to now leading high-impact beverage education courses all over the country.
🔗 Want to learn more or start creating your own beverage movement?
Visit LilaVolkas.com or check the episode description for links.
🎓 For mixologists, facilitators, and brands:
Grab our Ultimate Non-Alc Menu Kit to learn how to communicate your NA menus →
https://www.marinamars.com/product-page/the-ultimate-non-alc-menu-kit
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