We recently had the chance to connect with Jim McCarty and have shared our conversation below.
Jim, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I own a Distillery. That’s actually outside of my “work” in this way. Monday through Friday, I’m an oncologist. I don’t think anyone will be surprised by this, but being a cancer doctor is difficult. Patients are so wonderfully appreciative of the care we give. And the work is rewarding. But we still lose too many battles in the cancer world. And that takes a bit out of you. Patients appreciate their cancer doctors, but they never want to have to see one. I ended up getting together with some friends to buy a Distillery. I work there in the evenings and on Saturday. On Monday through Friday, no one really wants to come see me. But on Saturdays, everyone wants to come see us!
My wife asked, “So you’re just going to work 6 days a week now?” And I said, “I guess so.” She said, “That seems like a lot.” I agreed, it is a lot. She said, “That seems to be too much” and suggested that I consider only working one job instead of two. I told her to be careful for what she wished for, because she may not like which one of the two jobs I picked.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Distilling whiskey in Alabama wasn’t even legal until about 12 years ago – so in many ways, we’re part of a new chapter in our state’s history. At Irons One Distillery, we’re proud to be among the few who are carrying on the tradition of making small-batch, handcrafted whiskey right here in Alabama. It’s a privilege to be able to do something so special.
Today, we make three main whiskeys: our signature bourbon; a special bourbon aged in a heavier-charred barrel for deeper flavor; and a whiskey made from a bourbon mash but aged in seasoned bourbon barrels for a unique twist. We’re also working on two exciting new releases – one finished in a honey barrel, and another bottled at cask strength, typically over 120 proof.
Our home is in historic Lowe Mill, a former cotton textile mill built around 1900 and now one of Huntsville’s most creative spaces. We’re currently expanding into a larger area within the building, which will allow us to grow production and create an even better guest experience – with tours and tastings, cocktails and entertainment, education and events, and more to come.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
To me, this is a wild story. One of the things that has most shaped my life is a wildly silly romantic comedy – Groundhog Day (1993), starring Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell.
In the movie, the main character, Phil, finds himself with infinite time. He uses it to learn French, play the piano, sculpt ice – to live fully and curiously.
Of course, none of us have unlimited time. But what if we lived as if we did – at least when it comes to learning and trying new things?
Learn to play the harmonica. Build a model train diorama. Go to medical school. Buy a distillery. Learn to swim.
If there’s something you want to do, do it. Don’t let the limits of time or fear of failure keep you from starting. Our mortality shouldn’t stop us. Don’t be scared to start.
When did you last change your mind about something important?
I’ll admit this is a hard one to answer, because genuine change of mind often happens in uncomfortable ways. There was a time when I supported certain policies that, on the surface, seemed motivated by fairness and safety – protecting Americans from violent criminals, for instance. That felt like common sense.
But as I watched those policies expand to include actions that affected people who were not violent, not even criminals – people simply trying to work and support their families – I began to feel uneasy. Over time, I realized that what had once seemed principled to me was beginning to conflict with my deeper belief in compassion and fairness.
That realization forced me to reflect on how easily fear or rhetoric can harden us, and how important it is to re-examine our assumptions even when it’s unpopular to do so. I came to understand that caring about safety and caring about humanity are not opposites – and that true leadership requires us to hold both at once.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What do you believe is true but cannot prove?
Some of my other answers have been serious – but this one’s just for fun.
I believe that within the next 10 to 20 years, we’ll have AI-guided virtual reality so advanced that it will feel completely real. I can imagine walking into an AI-VR parlor, paying my ten bitcoin, and stepping into an experience so convincing that I could relive moments from my own life – like when my son Evan caught that shark, or Alex’s high school graduation. Maybe even that wild time back in 2025 when we bought a distillery.
AI is advancing so quickly that I wouldn’t be surprised if, one day, virtual reality becomes indistinguishable from “real” reality.
In fact… maybe I’m in that booth right now.
So no – I don’t believe I’m currently living in an AI simulation. But here’s something I believe, even though I can’t prove it: the chance that I am is greater than zero.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
Life does not have to be that complicated. Work hard and be nice. If we all tried a little harder to be good to one another – to put someone else’s needs ahead of our own once in a while – the world would be an even more beautiful place than it already is.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ironsone.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ironsonehuntsville/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ironsonedistillery/
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