Blood, Sweat, Cheers - How to Donate Like a Pro with Charlie Frisch of the Red Cross

Today on Consuming the Craft, I welcomed Charlie Frisch from the American Red Cross to dive into the often-misunderstood world of blood donation. We got into what the Red Cross really does—going beyond blood drives to offer lifesaving training, disaster relief, and resources for veterans. Charlie shed light on the urgent and ongoing need for blood, especially in Western North Carolina, and shared the staggering fact that only 3% of people donate blood regularly. We unraveled misconceptions, discussed what it really feels like to give blood, and shared practical advice for anyone considering rolling up their sleeve for the first time. In true Consuming the Craft fashion, we also explored the intersection of fermentation and blood science while sampling a fine Armagnac, connecting the dots between crafting drinks and saving lives.

Charlie Frisch has been with the American Red Cross for about a year, bringing with him 14 years of radio experience and several years in outdoor and alternative education. A New Yorker at heart who found his way to Asheville, Charlie is deeply passionate about community resilience and education. As a Red Cross representative, he works endlessly to inform and inspire others to donate blood and volunteer, helping to drive humanitarian aid and relief efforts far beyond local boundaries.

"When you think about the fact, and this is staggering, that only 3% of folks donate blood… that shortage starts to make sense." ~Charlie Firsch

Today on Consuming the Craft:

·     The American Red Cross does much more than just blood drives; they provide lifeguard, CPR, and first aid training, disaster relief, and support for veterans.

·     Only 3% of Americans regularly donate blood, leading to a perpetual shortage both locally in Western North Carolina and nationwide.

·     Blood donations are critical because blood can only be stored for 42 days before it must be used.

·     The process of donating blood is now quick (about 40 minutes), virtually painless, and highly efficient thanks to skilled professionals.

·     Power Red donations allow eligible donors to give a concentrated amount of red blood cells using a smaller needle, making the experience even easier.

·     Donors receive information on their blood type, blood pressure, hemoglobin, and even where their blood ends up being used—all via the Red Cross app.

·     Anyone in good health, aged 17+ (or 16 with parental consent), can donate, and Power Red requires certain height and weight minimums.

·     Interested individuals and organizations can volunteer with or host blood drives through the Red Cross, increasing their community impact.

Contact Charlie Frisch and Red Cross Resources:

Red Cross website: redcross.org

Red Cross Blood Donor App: Download to schedule appointments, track your donations, and receive updates on your blood's journey

Red Cross Asheville Donation Center: 100 Edgewood, West Asheville (off Merriman)

To volunteer or set up a blood drive: Visit redcross.org and fill out a contact form, Charlie or a team member will reach out within 24 hours

Resources Mentioned:

• Red Cross Blood Donor App

• Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast

• Hemocytometer (used for both blood and brewing science)

This episode is brought to you by…

McConnell Farms - Taste the Way You Remember. Enjoy homemade ciders and ice cream made from only the best produce on the market. Visit the McConnell Farms website to learn more about our seasonal inventory and the delicious creations you can make with our homegrown produce.

Consuming the Craft

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