Episode 460: Aaron Vaccaro of Liquor Lab - Nashville, TN. From Finance to Venture Capital to Beverages [AND FOOD]. Experiential Concepts Grow Profitable Biceps in GLOW UP Hospitality World. SHOWTIME.

From Finance Whiz to Food and Beverage Innovator – Aaron Vaccaro's Journey with Liquor Lab and More

Episode Highlights:

• Meet Aaron Vaccaro: Justin Bizzarro sits down with Sacramento-based Aaron Vaccaro, the dynamic CEO of Liquor Lab and Vice President at WestRiver Group. Delve into Aaron's fascinating transition from a background in finance to becoming a significant force in food and beverage entrepreneurship.
• A Portfolio of Success: Aaron provides an inside look at his impactful work with the West River Group and discusses his current ventures, including the innovative Toca Football, the famous JBJ' Nashville [Jon Bon Jovi's Honky Tonk Bar and Restaurant], the beloved Listening Room Cafe, and the experiential Liquor Lab.
• Venture Capital & Experiential Business: Discover how Aaron's distinct approach to venture capital and his focus on creating immersive experiential business models have paved the way for his considerable achievements. He’ll unpack Liquor Lab's unique strategy for teaching cocktail crafting, offering liquor brands a direct and engaging channel to connect with consumers.
• Growth in High-Opportunity Markets: Justin and Aaron explore the intricacies of business expansion in thriving markets like Nashville, highlighting the strategic use of equity investment and distinctive hospitality experiences to fuel success.
• Core Entrepreneurial Values: Throughout this insightful conversation, Aaron underscores the critical roles of mentorship, continuous learning, and adaptability in navigating the constantly evolving entrepreneurial landscape.
• Actionable Insights: Whether you're just starting your entrepreneurial journey or are a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on identifying and leveraging your strengths, and seizing opportunities within the vibrant hospitality and food industry.

A Deeper Dive into Aaron Vaccaro's Impact:

Aaron Vaccaro is a seasoned investor, entrepreneur, and leader. His career, spanning over a decade, has seen him serve as a board member, advisor, and executive for a diverse range of companies across the technology and entertainment sectors. He has a proven track record of partnering with entrepreneurs and their teams to transform ambitious visions into tangible realities.

Originally from the scenic foothills of Northern California, Aaron now calls Sacramento home. His academic journey includes a bachelor's degree in mathematical economics from Whitworth University, followed by a master's in finance from Claremont McKenna College. Aaron's professional path took a significant turn in 2015 when he joined the venture capital firm WestRiver Group (WRG).

During his initial tenure at WRG, the firm was the primary investor in the global experience brand Topgolf Entertainment Group. As Chief of Staff to Topgolf’s CEO, Aaron was instrumental in shaping strategy, finance, and operations. His contributions were key to Topgolf's explosive growth, rocketing from $90 million in revenue to an astounding $1.1 billion, ultimately leading to the company's $2 billion acquisition by Callaway Golf Company.

Beyond his pivotal role at Topgolf, Aaron's entrepreneurial acumen has influenced numerous companies within WRG’s portfolio. He currently holds the position of President at Singularity University, where he successfully guided the company to achieve profitability for the first time in its history. His advisory expertise has also benefited organizations such as Talespin Reality Labs, The Listening Room Cafe, ONEHOPE, and TOCA Football.

Aaron's connection with the experiential mixology concept, Liquor Lab, began in 2017. He initially joined as an investor and board member following the company's successful launch in New York. After seven years of providing strategic guidance on growth, Aaron assumed the role of CEO in 2025. In this position, he leads the company with a