Global Bar Ambassador for Mirror Bar in Bratislava and Author of The Cocktail Balance & The Cocktail Balance 2.0 Stanislav Harcinik is the global bar ambassador for Mirror Cocktail Bar in Bratislava, Slovakia. Not only is he representing his bar on a global scale, but he is also an author of two industry books. Stan shares his journey from a novice with no background in hospitality to a leading figure in the industry. Based in Bratislava, Slovakia, Stan discusses his dual roles, creating educational resources through his platform, Cocktail Balance, and offering insights into the work he has done at Mirror Bar. Years of relentless hard work, learning, and why he is passing on knowledge to the next generation. Touched by personal experiences and the impact of social media, Stanislav also addresses the trends he hopes to see more in cocktails and life. This episode is a testament to his philosophy: 'Learn, grow, and pass it on,' and his unwavering belief that genuine effort will eventually yield rewards. 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 00:43 Stanislav's Background and Roles 03:04 Journey into Hospitality 06:45 Challenges and Realizations 09:08 Balancing Studies and Bartending 10:25 Family Reactions and Support 12:27 Path to Becoming a Global Ambassador 16:17 Recognition and Achievements 20:41 The Role of Global Ambassador 27:52 Challenges of Promoting Slovakian Bars 31:57 Cocktail Balance Books 32:41 Reflecting on the Journey of Writing 33:24 The Philosophy of Cocktail Balance 34:58 The Importance of Sharing Knowledge 36:37 Mentorship and Overcoming Fear 42:39 Future Plans and Industry Contributions 48:04 Quick Fire Questions and Personal Stories 58:13 Final Thoughts and Legacy