We had the good fortune of connecting with Kelsey Simon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kelsey, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Everyone has been told at some point that they should get a “good job” Typically that translates to something that makes a lot of money. They are seldom taught that they should pursue something that ignites their passion. In my case, I skipped the fancy name tag to see the world. My passion is to meet people, freely travel, and to never be consumed by a job. When you take the risk to escape from the normal 9-5 and explore the non conventional you’ll realize how much more there is to life. You’re no longer living life just waiting for your lunch break.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art comes from a desire to explore the world. I’m forever searching for hidden gems in cities, immersing myself in the culture. With an emphasis to always eat and drink where the locals frequent. I believe I offer the other side of travel. The obscure side, away from the tourist traps. For the first time I’m inviting my followers to come with me on a group trip. I’m beyond excited to announce my collaboration beercation to the Netherlands with Chris Bettini of @pubculturebeercations next April. We’ve organized a group trip to Holland for an ideal dutch adventure filled with tulips, bike rides, windmills, and most importantly beer.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well of course if you’re staying with me for a week you know there will be a lot of beer involved. Whenever I have friends visit, the first place I always take them is Dixie Grill and Bar in West Palm Beach. It’s family owned, has a unique and kitschy ambiance, the food is always amazing and they have the best tap list in town. Did I mention they also make their own beer? Next we’d have to stop at the Silver Ball Museum in Delray Beach. It’s a one of a kind two story pinball arcade with tons of vintage games some dating back to the 1930’s . With a full bar its the perfect place to behave like a kid. A skee-ball competition would definitely be mandatory. Another one of my favorite spots in Delray is a place called Hopportunities. It’s a self serve beer bar with over 50 taps that you can help yourself to. (Think fro-yo for beer) Ranging from well known international brews to specialty kegs from Florida. It’s the perfect place to try new beers as little or as much as you like!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There is a multitude of support in the beer community and we all build each other up. The beauty of beer is that it brings people together from all over the world and you’ll instantly have something in common. From brewers, to bar owners, to beer nerds, there is always a community drawn to the liquid. No matter where you may find yourself they all speak the same language: Water, Hops, Malt and Yeast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelseysimonsays/