• Episode 18 - Al's Childhood
    Nov 20 2024

    In this episode we share nostalgic stories about Al's childhood growing up in Cincinnati. They discuss growing up in the Ohio River Valley, their family dynamics, including humorous and heartfelt anecdotes about siblings and pets. The episode touches on events like America's River Roots festival, the significance of hosting the captain's ball, and the family's pet stories, providing a deep dive into their family history and cherished memories.

    00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
    00:39 Welcome to the Podcast
    01:45 Listener Engagement and Feedback
    02:24 Childhood Memories: School Days
    04:27 Sibling Stories and Family Dynamics
    20:28 Family Pets and Adventures
    25:18 Grandma's Love for Animals
    26:15 The Story of Segunda
    30:59 Family Vacations and Memories
    33:05 Childhood Friends and Memories
    37:46 Sports and Neighborhood Life
    41:34 Word of the Day: Toe the Line
    45:11 Upcoming Events and Announcements
    52:19 Conclusion and Farewell

    Please like and subscribe to this show. Connect with us on our Facebook or Instagram page. Check out our website at RamblinontheRiver.com or email us directly at podcast@bbriverboats.com. Thank you for listening!

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    54 mins
  • Episode 17 - Gateway Clipper Fleet
    Nov 13 2024

    In this episode of the Ramblin' on the River' podcast, the family discusses their experiences with BB Riverboats, including collaborations with Gateway Clipper Fleet in Pittsburgh. Special guest Terry Wirginis from the Gateway Clipper Fleet shares stories about his family's business and their mutual influences. The conversation covers their mutual experiences, past ventures, humorous incidents, and the close-knit nature of the passenger vessel industry. This episode offers a blend of history, camaraderie, and the enduring bonds formed within the riverboat community.

    00:00 Introduction to Ramblin on the River
    01:23 Meet Your Hosts: Ben Terry and Alan Bernstein
    02:08 A Journey Through the Bernstein Family History
    02:49 Special Guest: Terry Wurgenis from Pittsburgh
    03:48 The Origins of the Gateway Clipper Fleet
    05:20 The Role of Betty Blake and John Conley
    06:38 Terry Wurgenis' Early Involvement
    10:14 The Transition to the Ohio State University
    11:36 The Return to the Family Business
    18:22 The Good Ship Lollipop Saga
    22:41 Personal Stories and Friendships
    28:19 The Bells of St. Louis Event
    31:17 John's Leadership and Industry Insights
    32:46 Casino Business Beginnings
    34:11 Challenges and Successes in the Casino Industry
    35:55 Understanding H Boats and Their Classes
    38:53 The Evolution of Passenger Vessels
    46:24 The Importance of Industry Collaboration
    52:48 Gateway Clipper Fleet and Pittsburgh's Beauty
    56:09 Rambling on the River: Word of the Day
    59:37 Conclusion and Farewell

    Please like and subscribe to this show. Connect with us on our Facebook or Instagram page. Check out our website at RamblinontheRiver.com or email us directly at podcast@bbriverboats.com. Thank you for listening!

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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Episode 16 - Crockett's and the River Cafe
    Nov 6 2024

    This engaging episode of Ramblin' on the River delves into the rich history of the Bernstein family's involvement in Cincinnati's hospitality landscape. Hosts Ben, Terri, and Alan Bernstein discuss the family's entrepreneurial journey, touching upon key ventures such as the BB riverboats and the iconic Crockett’s restaurant. The episode is filled with light-hearted banter, personal anecdotes, and even introduces younger family members Emma Stewart and Elim Bernstein. From childhood memories to recent achievements, this episode captures the essence of family and tradition, all while sailing through the mighty Ohio River.

    00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
    01:24 Welcome Back from Hiatus
    03:43 Special Guests: Emma and Elim
    05:03 Emma's Driving Adventures
    10:15 Sports Updates: Volleyball and Football
    14:03 Future Plans and Aspirations
    20:18 Family Business History: Crockett's and BB Riverboats
    27:15 Searching for Harold and Tom
    27:38 Transforming the Restaurant
    28:05 Crocodile Dundee Theme
    28:40 Staff and Management Stories
    29:29 Family Memories and Piano Lessons
    32:09 The Great Beer Spill
    35:28 Life Jacket Demonstration
    40:37 Crockett's Culinary Delights
    44:10 Word of the Day: Soup Coolers
    47:46 Election Day and Current Events
    55:35 Family Podcast Plans
    58:13 Conclusion and Farewell

    Please like and subscribe to this show. Connect with us on our Facebook or Instagram page. Check out our website at RamblinontheRiver.com or email us directly at podcast@bbriverboats.com. Thank you for listening!

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    1 hr
  • Episode 15 - Mike Fink
    Oct 16 2024

    In this episode of 'Ramblin on the River' the Bernstein family explores the colorful history of their family's involvement in Cincinnati's hospitality business, focusing on the iconic Mike Fink riverboat restaurant. The discussion spans the boat's move from Cincinnati to Covington, significant challenges like the harsh winter of 1977-78, and memorable anecdotes that paint a vivid picture of the restaurant's legacy. From whimsical practical jokes between Carl Lindner and Ben Bernstein to celebrity visits and personal mishaps, the episode is a nostalgic journey through both hardships and joyous moments. The theme extends to discussions about community resilience amid recent severe weather events, nodding to the continuity of family traditions and the evolving hospitality landscape.

    00:00 Introduction to Ramblin on the River

    01:25 Meet Your Hosts: Ben, Alan, and Terri

    02:09 Listener Engagement and International Audience

    03:35 Family History: The Old El Greco Restaurant

    05:41 The Mike Fink Restaurant: A Cincinnati Icon

    15:30 Winter Challenges and River Adventures

    20:52 Memorable Moments and Famous Guests

    26:49 Dumbwaiter Mishap: A Classic Story

    29:31 The Dumbwaiter Story

    30:18 Childhood Memories with Grandpa

    31:36 High Water Boat Moving

    36:34 Cooking at the Table

    38:16 The Fire Incident

    39:55 The Banana Split Prank

    51:44 Rambling on the River: Word of the Day

    54:48 Hurricane Helene and Milton

    01:00:56 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

    Please like and subscribe to this show. Connect with us on our Facebook or Instagram page. Check out our website at RamblinontheRiver.com or email us directly at podcast@bbriverboats.com. Thank you for listening!

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Episode 14 - El Greco
    Oct 9 2024

    In this episode of 'Ramblin on the River, the podcast dives into the legacy of the Bernstein family's involvement in Cincinnati's hospitality scene, particularly focusing on their restaurant, El Greco. The script is peppered with anecdotes about family dynamics, notable events, and recipes from El Greco's menu. Two infamous stories are revisited - a mishap as a valet and a humorous restaurant incident involving Alan's mother. The episode also touches on the challenges and successes encountered over the years in the restaurant business. Alongside these personal stories, there's a mention of the upcoming Blink Cincinnati event, where BB Riverboats offers a unique experience to enjoy light installations via river cruises.

    00:00 Introduction to Ramblin on the River

    01:35 Meet the Hosts: Ben, Alan, and Terri

    03:10 Terri's Birthday and Family Memories

    04:18 Debate: Open-Faced Sandwiches and Boneless Chicken Wings

    09:22 El Greco: The Family's Favorite Restaurant

    11:23 The History and Layout of El Greco

    28:51 Expanding El Greco: The Garden Room

    31:45 Christmas at El Greco: A New Tradition

    34:07 Shelly's Hospitality and Late-Night Dining

    35:07 Dad's Restaurant Philosophy and Christmas Eve Tradition

    37:25 El Greco's Unique Advertising and Diverse Menu

    41:03 Valet Mishaps and Memorable Stories

    49:20 Famous Characters and Signature Dishes

    57:48 Freeze-Dried Al: A Family Nickname

    01:00:14 Blink Cincinnati: A Spectacular Event

    01:04:12 Concluding Thoughts and Future Episodes

    Please like and subscribe to this show. Connect with us on our Facebook or Instagram page. Check out our website at RamblinontheRiver.com or email us directly at podcast@bbriverboats.com. Thank you for listening!

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • Episode 13 - Tall Stacks Pt. 2
    Oct 2 2024

    In the second part of this Tall Stacks episode of Ramblin' on the River the Bernstein's share humorous and heartwarming stories from the past festivals. The hosts also getinto the origin of the phrase 'three sheets to the wind' and provide insights into current riverboat industry trends and the economic landscape. Tune in for an engaging mix of history, humor, and river lore.

    00:00 Introduction to Ramblin' on the River
    00:39 Meet the Hosts: Ben, Alan, and Terri
    01:51 Listener Engagement and Social Media
    03:30 Miami Marlins Game and Poolside Memories
    04:38 Tall Stacks Festival History
    06:24 The Great River Race of 2003
    11:59 Trophy Mishap and Recovery
    16:51 Breakfast Cruise in the Fog
    22:56 The Golf Cart Prank
    26:33 The Brunch Cruise Challenge
    27:25 Tall Stacks Event: Behind the Scenes
    30:44 A Memorable Encounter at Tall Stacks
    35:52 Three Sheets to the Wind: Nautical Origins
    43:59 Current Events: The Economy and Industry Insights
    52:22 Conclusion and Farewell

    Please like and subscribe to this show. Connect with us on our Facebook or Instagram page. Check out our website at RamblinontheRiver.com or email us directly at podcast@bbriverboats.com. Thank you for listening!

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    54 mins
  • Episode 12 - Tall Stacks Pt. 1
    Sep 25 2024

    In this episode, the Bernstein family dives into the history of Cincinnati's Tall Stacks festivals, from their inception in 1988 through various installments, highlighting stories of successes, challenges, and memorable moments. The episode also features humorous anecdotes about family and work life, interactions with fans, and a segment on modern slang terms.

    00:00 Introduction to Ramblin on the River
    01:09 Meet Your Hosts: Ben Terri and Alan Bernstein
    02:51 The Origins of Tallstacks Festival
    06:20 Tallstacks 1988: The Inaugural Event
    13:56 Tallstacks 1992: The Second Celebration
    16:36 Tallstacks 1995: Expansion and Reenactments
    17:36 Tallstacks 1999: A Decline in Attendance
    17:57 Tallstacks 2003: Music and Entertainment
    21:49 Tallstacks 2006: Overcoming Challenges
    29:54 Volunteer Heroes and the Garbage Truck Stern Line
    31:52 The Mutiny on the President
    38:01 Red Hat Ladies Chaos
    42:03 Word of the Day: Fuddy Duddy
    44:54 Teen Slang Challenge
    53:45 Conclusion and Farewell

    Please like and subscribe to this show. Connect with us on our Facebook or Instagram page. Check out our website at RamblinontheRiver.com or email us directly at podcast@bbriverboats.com. Thank you for listening!

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    57 mins
  • Episode 11 - Bloopers Pt. 1
    Sep 18 2024

    In this episode of 'Ramblin' on the River' share a series of humorous and intriguing maritime stories, including the two groundings of the Belle of Cincinnati, the partial sinking of the Captain Ben, and the unfortunate sinking of the diorama barge. They also discuss how the crew managed to improvise mooring situations by tying their vessel to unconventional objects. The episode concludes with exciting news about the return of the 'Tall Stacks' festival, now called 'America's River Roots,' which is scheduled for October 2025. The hosts provide insights into the festival's components, including music, culture, cuisine, and the anticipated arrival of various riverboats from across the United States.

    00:00 Introduction to Ramblin' on the River
    01:23 Meet the Hosts: Ben, Alan, and Terri
    01:47 Listener Emails and Fan Interactions
    04:08 Terri's Lisp and Funny Anecdotes
    05:28 Bloopers and Mishaps: Part 1
    07:48 Navigating the Tennessee River
    13:18 Grounding the Belle of Cincinnati
    15:51 Rescue Operations and Passenger Safety
    25:21 The Captain Ben Incident
    30:40 Building the Diorama
    31:20 Animatronics and Chuck E. Cheese
    32:05 The Sinking Barge Incident
    34:29 Coast Guard and Missing Documents
    37:48 Tying Up the Boat in Town
    43:19 Blooper Story Time
    43:38 Word of the Day: Flotsam and Jetsam
    48:27 America's River Roots Festival
    59:14 Podcast Conclusion and Farewell

    Please like and subscribe to this show. Connect with us on our Facebook or Instagram page. Check out our website at RamblinontheRiver.com or email us directly at podcast@bbriverboats.com. Thank you for listening!

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    1 hr and 2 mins