The Beer Mighty Things Podcast

Chris Rhoades, the co-founder of Beer Tree Brew Co in Binghamton NY, pops by to share their process of making tasty liquids and creating great experiences. We discuss the early beginning brewpub ideas to growing hops & grain, to attending festivals as a guest and then becoming a New York beer destination!

We talk NY state brewery farm laws, expansion during a pandemic, food programs, breweries that inspired them as well as their small "Batch Coffee" program.

Chris then shares his book and podcast list. Tune in and enjoy!

We're taking a trip "back in the day" with Pennsylvania Native, Senior VP of Sales and Partnerships at GoTab, Rick Malthaner.

We talk about his start in the industry many moons ago and he's seen it all - and he's still as enthusiastic as ever. We dive into the history of POS systems, his kegerator story and his genius kegged seltzer hack!

Then we get into the crux and the power of QR Codes heavily utilized by GoTab.

- Founded in 2016, GoTab processes over $250M transactions per year with operations across 35 U.S. states and growing and we dive into my phenomal first-hand experience at Guinness Open Gate in Baltimore - Easy, at our own pace, no waiting for a server, no lines, no empty glasses, no waiting on a check, and ultimately a greater overall customer experience.

I always try to bring in advocates and resources for the food & beverage community and today's guest is a great strategic partner for your business. He’s helped my clients (breweries, restaurants and building owners) in many ways.  

Today we welcome Senior Principal, Business Consultant at EKC Strategic Business Alliance -Phil Mortell.

In this episode, I catch up with a long-time friend that burned the boats and moved to Florida to follow a dream he truly believed in. We're talking with Mather Wiswall, the Co-Founder of the American Grid Association and Marketing Master for the Florida Grid League. 

We're discussing the Grid League - a co-ed spectator sport where atheletes compete throughout the season for a grand prize.  This sport  brings in all the elements - excitement, leadership, strategy, athleticism, communication, grit, comradery.

We talk about the journey, the bootstrapping, working with a family member/business partner that lives in a completely different state and how to balance it all to keep pushing through. 

Oh, and it's mango season in Florida!

Today we welcome friends Caiti Sullivan & Trevor Greer - Co-Owners of Coven Brewing in Pittsburgh.

With artistic backgrounds and a keen eye for detail, these two have created unique beers with a welcoming spiritlike ambience in the Lawrenceville neighborhood. 

Combining their love of art, beer, culinary ingredients and tinkering with fermentation techniques, they'll awaken your mind and tastebuds with their brews. 

We also touch on their epic Halloween party and fantastic playlists!

Icarus Brewing, Brix City and the Brewers Guild of NJ are spearheading this #BrewJersey effort to raise awareness about the state of the craft beer rules, laws and regulations in New Jersey and to do that, we’re welcoming in Jason Goldstein, owner of Icarus Brewing in Lakewood NJ.

Together, your brewery can get involved to fix a broken system and brew a tasty beer to spread the word. 

Let's face it - The word "audit" seems scary and also seems like a lot of work.  Well, "The Beer Accountant" Pat McDonald and myself are here to help you navigate this insurance request quickly & without a headache. 

We talk about what audits are, what they're not, and how to get the info quickly from your accountant to satisfy the audit.  This is helpful, thanks for tuning in. 

Join us as Ted Lasso, Slash and a Mermaid "Beer Spooky Things" in this Halloween Edition episode.  We all dressed up without really discussing dressing up and it was perfect!  You can view our costumes on the show image.  

It was a blast to have Emily & Danny Wang tell us their story on how they met and how they founded Fermly, a craft beer laboratory in Denver Colorado.  

We dive into how Fermly is solving problems using QA/QC data points and software to provide 24/7 results.  We hit on Non-Alcoholic Beers, Food Safety and their terrific, insightful blog.  

In this episode with Wormtown's Kary Shumway, HE interviews ME.  We're talking year-end insurance tips, taking inventory and figuring out where you've been so you can get where you're going. 

We're talking Inflation, property valuation, audits and certificates of insurance as well as employee classification and what does/doesn't trigger insurance claims, including ADA-Compliant websites. 

Today's guest is David Meltzer, a world-renowned motivator who's mission is to empower OVER 1 BILLION people to be happy!   He’s been a mentor of mine from afar and hosts Entreprenuer Magazine's Podcast: The Playbook, which I've listened to every single day for roughly 3 years.

He served as CEO of the Sports Agency that was the inspiration for the movie Jerry Maguire and Dave wants to “MAKE A LOT OF MONEY, HELP A LOT OF PEOPLE, and HAVE A LOT OF FUN!”  Who doesn't?

We talk about a person’s energy & frequency and discuss how he Dared Mighty Things to earn over $100-million-dollars but also lose it all.  We converse about losing gracefully and how losses can become positive lessons.

My Phillies are about to take on his Padres for the NLCS.   LET'S GO PHILS!  #redoctober

PK Agrawal is the Founder and CEO of The 5th Ingredient in South Florida, a company that develops all-in-one data management systems for the beverage industry and he stops by to drop some knowledge in this episode.

PK is a Florida native, a Harvard Alum and took a chance with Ballast Point in San Diego to be a Process Engineer and help them optimize their packaging equipment.  He led the team to launching a nitrogen bottling line and bulk production of nitrogen kegs. Hell yea!

The Beer30 and Bucha30 software systems transform your brewery's data into cost savings, with an emphasis on quality, consistency, and efficiency.

We discuss the Australian beer market, travel, food, scuba diving and 2023.

Today we speak with John Medkeff, Author of Brewing in Delaware, Delaware’s foremost expert on Delaware’s brewing history, President of The Friends of Delaware’s Gambrinus Statue, Inc and the one who’s tasked with restoring The King of Beer - King Gambrinus. 

We met at the Odessa Beerfest in Delaware and it immediately felt like a story you needed to hear. We dive into the history, restoration and the legend of King Gambrinus including his time spent at Delaware's Diamond State Brewery.  From the King's official day, 3D Laser scanning, and John's 501(c)(3), we dig into everything that goes into resurrecting the 135 year old statue.

We're replaying Episode 15 of my April 2020 conversation with a good friend, Bill Covaleski of Victory Brewing Company because I feel it's an important early episode to hear, especially if you're new to our podcast. I know you'll enjoy it. 

Bill and I discuss their original name choice, turning obstacles into opportunities and "the hot breath of wolves breathing on the back of your neck." 

Bill and his team at Victory Brewing have been pioneers of DARING MIGHTY THINGS for a long, long time!  

Thanks for listening!   

Anne Gannon, Founder of The Largo Group drops in to provide us some terrific tax strategies as we enter Q4 of 2022.

We talk about the hiring of 87,000 IRS agents, the ERTC, PPP and how to reduce your taxable income. 

We're talking important dates, Year-end bonuses, purchases and inventory reviews. 

Don't forget to use that R&D Credit that's available to you brewers!

Joining us is Cliff Ross, Founder of Cliff Ross Inc, an Ad Agency in Easton PA.  

He's been in the advertising design business for over 25 years and has spent time with the Electric Factory & Philadelphia Weekly.  

We dive into marketing to your existing clients, emails, blogging and how to use Instagram more effectively with Reels and Carousels.

We're talking about adjusting for inflation, shrinkflation, Zero-Based Budgeting and why you need to take a vacation!

Holy moly! This was an episode I'll personally go back and listen to often for motivation, confidence and pushing toward whatever goal I want to acheive.  Coming to us from Bozeman, Montana (in a custom 1971 Airsteam Cigar Lounge), is Brian Hemming, Founder of FITFO Custom Cans, and he's dropping all sorts of knowledge, positivity and strength for those who need it.  

We discuss leadership, mindset, betting on yourself, flexibility & all sorts of goodness.  We talk "overnight success,", winning the lottery and discussing why “Hardships often prepare ordinary people for extraordinary destiny.”

Then, we hop into his brand and product: FITFO Custom Cans that feature steel construction and definitely meet the criteria of sturdy, durable, and portable which are airtight and watertight, making them an ideal storage option for your cigars, leafy greens and coffee.

We dive into the FITFO origin story, leaning in, and "Figuring it the F*** Out" 

Then, naturally, we hop into cigars, etiquette, cigar cuts and pletnty more fun!

We're breaking down the nuances of managing your brewery's wealth with Doug Marshall, Co-Owner of Marshall + Viliesis in Seattle, WA. 

He helps us determine the value of your brewery and how to manage liquid vs illiquid assets because many private companies achieve lower returns than available in the investment markets. 

We discuss why brewery owners should introduce their "trusted advisors" to each other and how to get a "Free Million Dollars" with "The One Percent Solution." 

We dive into the few ways ownership transfers within a company and we break down Doug's "Craft Brewery Protection Planning System." 

Get Doug's "10 Planning Tips" by emailing him at dougm@marshallviliesis.com

Angela Vendetti always drops that knowledge for us!  Obviously it's been tough for businesses during and after COVID, so Angela's talking tips on staffing, labor costs, interviewing potential employees, and getting these folks to show up for the interview and once hired, their shift.

From Rock Climbing Guide to QA/QC Manager to Winning the Top Prize at the Seattle Angel Conference Competition, we're chatting wtih Founder of Grist Analytics, Brynn Keenan as she breaks down Statistical Process Controls (SPCs).

We talk in-depth about KPIs in the Brewhouse, Cellar and Packaging. We break down the benefits and challenges of Dry Hopping, Hop Creep, Diacetyl and Managing Yeast Health and Growth - and have some laughs while we're at it!  Enjoy!

Today we’re speaking with Iker Elorriaga of Miami's "Best New Brewery" - Tripping Animals Brewing Company. 

We discuss their home brewing adventures and the beer scene in Venezuela, from throwing parties to bringing that excitement 1,600 miles to Miami Florida. We talk about how MIA Beer Company has been a great mentor brewery and we also dive into who else inspires them to push out bold, hazy, tasty beers.  We talk about their brewery setup and 

*Important* - Iker breaks down when it makes sense to purchase a centrifuge.  

We also break down the Free The Whales Beer Fest

This episode features a mentor of mine who brings wisdom and leadership to my email inbox every day.  Today, I chop it up with entrepreneur, global keynote speaker, advisor to the Fortune 500, high-growth businesses, pro and college sports teams, Founder of Daily Discipline, and Leader of Culture at RallyDay Partners - Brian Kight.

He's extremely passionate about helping others and you can hear that passion in this episode.  He recently dared something mighty as he moved his  family across the country to pursue a dream job.  

We dive into decision making, how leaders instill courage in their teams, fear of failure & success, habits and his trademarked formula: E+R=O

Celebrating 10 years is Ska Fabricating in Durango, CO and I dropped in on Chief Customer Officer, Jake Kolakowski.  

We discuss how Ska Fab grew out of Ska Brewing, the team involved and the mechanical side of things.  Jake walks us through the journey on how Ska Fab scratched the itch to improve efficiencies in the brewing, packaging and distribution of beer. 

The Can Depalletizer was created and the game was changed.  We break down when it makes sense to purchase a de-pal and all the benefits of automation.  

Hope you enjoy!

For the first in-person episode, I linked up with Warwick Farm Brewing's Brewmaster Ryan Seiz to record this podcast and enjoy a Nitro Black Lager.  WFB quickly became popular and created an incredible experience in Bucks County, PA that continues to improve.

Ryan is a former Major League Baseball player and we discuss the parallels between baseball, building a business, and embracing the daily grind.  

Much like the movie "Field of Dreams," the phrase "if you build it, they will come" rings true here.  WFB had a blueprint for their next steps before they even brewed their first beer.

They have 22 acres of land and are cranking out phenomenal beers consistently.  They originally wanted to focus on Hazy IPAs but have increased their Lager production due to demand.

We hit on sustainability, their farming future and a potential Sour Cellar.

Keep an eye out for this team!

I had the opportunity to sit down with Michael Varda, Founder of Craft Beer Advisory Services in Virginia. 

His company collects data for the craft beer industry and we break down that data he’s collected to really decipher who’s visiting your brewery, what’s important to them and why they come back. 

Varda has programs to analyze your brand, help you choose where to distribute, and what's driving consumer motivation. 

We get granular on the 6 types of beer drinkers that walk into your building - pay attention!

Also, keep an eye out for his Craft Beer Consumer Research Membership 

In this episode, we're conversing with Dave Kushner - Founder of Trace Brewing, Co-Founder of Remnant Brewing, mentor to many and an all-around great guy to grab a beer with. 

From Miami to DC to Boston to Pittsburgh... from John Harvard's to Harpoon to Lord Hobo to Remnant to Trace, Dave's gained a lot of experience in a short amount of time.  He discusses his 5 Year Plan (take notes!) and how it's come to fruition.

We dive into Trace's 6-Month, PAID(!) Vocational Program to help prepare and pave the way for our future brewers that may not have had the opportunity otherwise.  

In addition, we talk beer, coffee, a Koelship/Event Room and their exceptional way to support local artists and vendors.  Hope you enjoy! Pay it forward!

Give some love on their socials- @tracebrewing / @remnantbrewing

We're chopping it up with Detroit, Michigan CEO Drew Patrick of Skidmore Studio - a strategic creative studio focused on helping CPG brands win on shelves, online, and in real life.

We discuss finding your WHY and following your passion. We dive into how art and playing sports helps with team building and prepping you for deadlines. 

They've worked with Griffin Claw Brewing, Smooj, Detroit Tigers, Universal Studios, Under Armour and plenty more.

Atomic Habits by James Clear is a great, practical book for anyone looking to reach goals and change habits and we're joined by Andrew Coplon of Craft Beer Professionals to discuss how it relates to the craft beverage industry.

If you're willing to get 1% better every day, you’ll be 37% better by the end of 12 months; continuous daily improvements can change your life. 

We delve into reaching Goals, making them Obvious, making them Attractive and making them Easy to obtain. 

We hit on how to make the process of achieving goals satisfying and discuss Jerry Seinfeld's "Don't Break the Chain" method of putting in the work daily.

From here, we review Andrew's 2022 Brewery Satisfaction Report, his Venn Diagram of Taproom Experience and how to improve engagement with customers. 

I'm hoping you can implement some of these tips in your life and business immediately.

Just a quick heads up on where to catch up with Andrew Coplon and The Craft Beer Professionals at #CBC2022 in Minneapolis MN. Also, a quick game of "Would You Rather?" 

Work hard. Play hard. Drink local. That's what you get when you visit the recent winners of "Best New PA Brewery in PA - 2021" - Rick, Eric and Jay Von Czoernig - the brothers and owners of Von C Brewing in Norristown PA. 

If you build it, they will come.  We take a walk down memory lane and travel back to the 1800's when Christian Schmidt founded Schmidt’s Brewery in Philadelphia. Their father, uncles, and grandfather, and so on, were all Master Brewers and they've resurrected some of the old recipes.  We hear stories of folks who've brought by memorabilia and told their nostalgic memories of Schmidt's.

It took a solid business plan and perserverence to push through the COVID hiccups to create a great space that you can visit today.  Their taproom features tons of natural light, murals and is just a terrific space to enjoy some tasty suds. They've got a rustic industrial vibe, with very high, open ceilings, and provides a great view of the brewhouse.

He's written for The New York Times, Men's Journal, Bon Appétit, Imbibe, Wine Enthusiast and has written 5 of his own books including Brewed Awakening, The Complete Beer Course, and most recently, Drink Better Beer... He's Joshua M. Bernstein coming to us from NYC.

We dive into his love of writing, his process and his search for bagels in Ohio. We discuss the beer landscape during each of the books, his Homebrew World adventures with the folks who are now big time NY brewers, The Complete Beer Course and the update we can expect in 2023.

We hit on how pizza and to-go beer sales increased dramatically during the pandemic and we extract the Beer Trends for 2022:

- Rising costs, Synthesized raw materials, local malt, tropical flavors, NA/Low ABV, Lagers

Thanks for taking the time to listen, consistently!  We've eclipsed 12,000 listens!  So, today I'm talking a little gratitude, hiring great talent and comparing alcohol trends from September 2021 with February 2022.

Enjoy and #beermightythings

Today, we’re talking Barrel Aging 101 & Wild Yeast Innovations with none other than the former Barrel Program Manager at New Holland and Goose Island (Bourbon County!) and now the Technical Brewing Manager Mark Anthony Brewing (White Claw Seltzer) in Chicago IL - Tim Faith.

We welcome back our friends Matthew Steinberg, Head Brewer/Co-Founder and Kelsey Roth, General Manager of Exhibit ‘A’ Brewing Company in Framingham, Massachusetts - known for its local sourcing, social initiatives, and great beer.

Did you know that for every case of Exhibit ‘A’ beer you drink, you support 24 square feet of local farmland?  #themoreyouknow

Today we connect with Julie Rhodes, Founder of Not Your Hobby Marketing Solutions in Denver, CO. We talk about Julie's journey from Texas to Chicago to Colorado, her gateway beers, and her "weird skillsets."  

We dive deep into Distributor Management and selling your core, flagship brands as well as helping you create a Release Calendar.

She loves email and tells us how to ask your customers what they want, and how to create emails that get opened, read and clicked.

Just a quick little diddy from me discussing the PA House Bill 425 & the PA Malt Beverage Tax Credit.  If your state doesn't have these options, push for them.  

Links to the info:

We're talking meat!  This week's episode features Steven Cabalar, Owner and Head Chef of Cabalar Meat Company in Downtown Lancaster PA.  From corporate caterer to butcher apprentice to owning a butcher shop and restaurant with an amazing, messy menu, Steven walks us through their process, menu and how he's gotten to where he is today.  He explains why they don't allow substitutions, his best food experiences and helping Front Line Workers during COVID.

Don't listen if you're hungry! You've been warned!

At 2am on Labor Day Weekend in Alexandria Bay NY, Mark Tsigounis and I meet for the 2nd time to shake up some unnecessary late-night margaritas. 

Drink a beer, help a family.  It's as simple as that.  We're talking with Executive Director of PA Eats, Jessica Darr to bridge the gap of the nearly 2,000,000 Pennsylvanians who struggle with hunger every day – including nearly 500,000 children.

We bring Spirits Author Eric Zandona back for Part 2 because I had so many more questions to discuss.  We really dive into how the heat in Texas can actually make whiskey "age faster" and taste more mature.  We hit on different types of corn, different altitudes and how distillers are standing out by utilizing local products.  We discuss how spirits and technique can vary all over the world.  We talk about where to find great recipes and 3 whiskeys you need to try now! 

This is another fun one with Eric!  Hope you enjoy!  

Today we go south into the tech world in Charlotte, NC with CEO & Co-Founder of Ekos, Josh McKinney.  An analyst, consultant, product manager, and now, CEO of Ekos - We talk about Josh's career path, how he met his co-owner and through to the launch of Ekos in 2014. 

We discuss how their software solves many problems and streamlines data for the craft beverage industry.

We discuss their epic party at Ratio Beer Works during CBC in Denver, what he's most excited about moving forward and what's next for Ekos.

Today, we're conversing with the guy you want to drink spirits with.  Eric Zandona is a spirits afficionado, spirits judge, Director at the American Distilling Institute and he’s searching for the world's best drinks. 

We hit on his newly completed 3rd book, The Atlas of Bourbon & American Whiskey.  We're talking "Bottled in Bond," the first labeling laws & the confusion about the spelling of Whiskey vs Whisky. We discuss his findings on how and why the quality has increased dramatically as well as Flavor Impact, Barrel Entry Proof vs Flavor Profile and White (unaged) Whiskey

Listen up.  I'm bringing in the legendary John Holl and we're talking bowtie competitions, food, beer, the process of writing articles & books (The American Craft Beer Cookbook; Drink Beer, Think Beer), as well as the food & drink culture in New York.  We hit on the beer industry's growing pains, the Adidas Oktoberfest drinking shoes and how to book this man for events and speaking engagements.  Enjoy!

An intriguing conversation with the "Steve Jobs of Canning" - EVP of Business Development and Co-Founder of Wild Goose Filling, Alexis Foreman.

We discuss their "OH SH!T MOMENT" and how that's catapulted Wild Goose to the top in the canning & filling world.  We hit on the meaning of the Goose, what you can expect when you purchase from Wild Goose and what sets Wild Goose apart.  They're ensuring your products are packaged with care and quality.

We discuss seams and labeling your cans, you flow rates, trends and innovations

Today we're chatting with in Chief Operating Officer, Chief Product Officer, and Co-Founder at Arryved, David Norman.

Arryved is your secret weapon to unite front of house, back of house, and guest experience.  We talk about their origin story, giving away data, value and content for free, without contracts!  We discuss Arryved’s capabilities for consumers, staff and business owners. 

We dive into David's time at Google, his influences, the process of raising $20 million Series B capital, the importance of culture, hiring the right people, keeping them, and incentivizing them.

In this episode, we bring in Dean Pierce, one of the coordinators of the upcoming Brews and Bands for Bart.

Bartley F. Kaminski, founder of Hop Hedz Gear and friend to many, recently passed away.

He Provided work for dozens of local breweries, biggest customers included - Stickman Brews, Pizza Boy Brewing, Workhorse Brewing, ZeroDay Brewing, Pour Man's Brewing, St. Boniface Brewing, Mad Chef Brewing, Tattered Flag, Hemauer Brewing, Rotunda Brewing, Moo Duck, Boneshire Brew Works and more.

Brews and Bands for Bart Festival:

A fun episode with the one and only Kate Bernot of Good Beer Hunting!  From her desk in Montana, she tells us what it means to be a Chicken Mom, how she became a reporter and editor with a decade of experience in craft beverage print media and also, unveils the fact that when you're a journalist, people will tell you anything you ask them.

We talk glassware IP infringement, DTC Shipping, Dissolved Oxygen when Canning.  This is fun, she's on top of her game!

Today, we bring in a long-time friend of mine, a M&A professional, a partner at Stony Hill Advisors... He's Fred Kaplan. 

We discuss how to think long-term, how much you're working IN the business, and making sure you set aside time to work ON the business. We're diving into Valuing and Selling Your Brewery, Why and How to Prepare.

We talk about what drives a brewery's valuation and how to get the deal over the finish line.

If you want to talk more, email fred@stonyhilladvisors.com

Episode 98 is a fun adventure with Meredith Megan Rebar, Founder of Home Brewed Events and Sales Manager/Educator at Deer Creek Malt.

She's a Certified Cicerone, award-winning homebrewer, a professional brewer, and a founding member of Philly Pink Boots Chapter.  We talk about Penn State, a life-changing overseas experience, her Duvel Tattoo and how Home Brewed Events has grown into a notable Philadelphia-based event management and beer education leader. 

Keep an eye out for Meredith's Podcast: Curious Drinkers Podcast

We discuss the first Octoberfest, Horse Riding, Arm Wrestling and The Clash.  Enjoy!

In this Episode, we bring back my good friend Jason Macias (also in Episode 44).  We discuss his experience in the industry and how that's led him to Zuckerman Honickman and he's launching their new Hops and Malt Program.  We hit on the history of ZH, their packaging capabilities, reputation and now, South African Hops, US base malts and the types of beers they pair with.

We also touch on Philly Beer Week and Philly Loves Beer.

Look for his booth at CBC!

This TIMELY episode features founder of the Craft Beer Professionals facebook group and Secret Hopper - Andrew Coplon. We discuss ways to increase taproom and to-go sales just by asking a few simple questions, motivating your beertenders, P.A.C.T, their online Conferences and plenty more pertinent stats.  Don't miss this one!  Ask me how to get a FREE Secret Hopper visit to your taproom!

We’re talking Financial Literacy with a new friend of mine. Author, CFO, CPA and the all-around-numbers-guy of Wormtown Brewery (MA), Kary Shumway.  We hit on Materials vs Margins analysis, days-on-hand calculations, software stacks, and mainly how to Increase profits, increase cash flow, and increase financial sustainability.

Books mentioned: The Richest Man in Babylon, Total Money Makeover, Everyday Millionaire, Little Giants, The One Thing, Eat That Frog and Kary's own: "Beer Business Finance: A Handbook for the Next Generation"

Lehigh Valley Beer Week is almost here!  May 15-22!  In this episode, I connect with 3 fine people who are going to provide you with an awesome week!  Being that Bethlehem, PA is my hometown, I had to help put #LVBeerWeek on the map!  There's so much history in the Lehigh Valley and so much great food & drink (and ghosts?), so we had to tell you about it!  

"Bring your stretchy pants!" - Anna

In this episode: 

Jesse Albertson, GM of The Wilbur Mansion in Bethlehem, and President/Founder of LVBW

Anna Kate Dale, is the GM of The Spinnerstown Hotel, and Treasurer of LVBW Board of Directors

Craig Phillips is the CMO of McCall Collective Brewing, and a Board Member of LVBW.

This episode is a true tale of mindset and living life to the fullest.  Here, I speak with Colin Gerner, co-founder of StacheStrong.org, a 501c3 in support of brain cancer research.  His brother, GJ, was a marathon runner and a reminder of all-things-courageous.  We lost GJ to Glioblastoma, or GBM and May is Brain Cancer Awareness Month.  Listen to this incredible story and please join us in being #StacheStrong

We have 200+ breweries involved in brewing a “S.M.A.S.H. for Stache” beer to raise money and awareness for Brain Cancer. 

This episode features the very knowledgeable David Green, the Dispense Division Trainer at MicroMatic in Rockford, IL.

We hit on some Key Elements of draft line cleaning and glassware conditioning.  David's goal is to keep our beer COLD, CARBONATED and CLEAN (Three C's).  Our draft systems have been in hibernation due to the pandemic and he provides a number of tips to bring those systems back on line - from Keg to Glass.  Enjoy!

This episode features Director of Strategic Partnerships at Community Brewing Ventures (CBV) in North Carolina, Aaron Gore.

CBV is disrupting the industry and helping breweries remove bottlenecks that prevent scaling.  CBV is helping breweries expand their brands without the significant capital investment typically required.  They discover, produce and promote the most innovative craft brands in the beverage industry.  Keep an eye on these folks!

Here's a great chat with Dennis Guy, Veteran, Founder of First Sip Brew Box and a key component of the newly formed Pittsburgh Brewery & Taproom Diversity Council.  We discuss Gary Vaynurchuck's guide to the hustle and giving away content.  We hit on his First Sip Brew Box, a subscription craft beer merch box and discuss the Council’s vision “to adapt the people aspect of the craft beer community to be as diverse as the styles on the tap list.”  We get zen, we open our minds, beer shampoo, hoppy coffee... lots of good stuff here.  Cheers!

Today, we welcome the Founder and CEO of Small Batch Standard (Jacksonville, FL) Chris Farmand.

We hit on his passion for craft beverage, building a culture virtually, celebrating daily wins, leadership and the lack of skunks in Florida.  Small Batch Standard analyzes your financial performance with their Brewery Business Assessment and they provide ongoing guidance to support your growth and/or profitability objectives with their Numbers Powered Growth process.  I found this educational and funny, hope you do as well.

I connected with the father-son team of Jonathan & Dylan Hull (Warwick, NY) about their 26th year in a family business: the Applewood Winery & Naked Flock Cider.  We chat about their history, the do's & dont's of packaging cider, Herman Melville, mead, their Wine Club, the Finger Lakes, Bees, honey and more! Enjoy.

We chat with Corey Martin about OSHA's reporting requirements, guidelines, and deadlines.  Right now is time to have your OSHA 300A Logs posted on your wall!!!  Enjoy.

This episode brings you 100% of the fun with 0% of the alcohol.  We welcome in Jeff Hollander, CEO of Hairless Dog Brewing Company, Minneapolis MN and discuss the non-alcoholic beer world. We hit on how they came up with their name, the stigma behind not drinking alcohol, the methods of making NA Beer and their exciting January Survival Kit. (This episode pushed us over 5,000 listens!!!)

I sit down with Glenn Clark, Founder of Crafting a Brand Company in the Finger Lakes region of NY and talk about his career and how to follow your passion.  We discuss ways beverage companies can stand out from the crowd because it's easy to become so focused on their day-to-day responsibilities that they neglect to invest in their own brand, resulting in less-effective marketing, lost time and money, and consumers who don't have loyalty or love for the brand.  Glenn reveals his process and walks us through it.

We reached out to Brendan Palfreyman, a partner at Harris Beach PLLC in NY, to talk about intellectual property and the issues that craft beverage companies face.  We dissect Copywrites, Trademarks, Cease & Desist Orders, what you can and can't do, and how to run searches for your next beverage's name.  We also talk costs and timelines.

Follow Brendan on IG and Twitter @b_palfreyman

Corey Martin of Spotlight Safety is back in this episode to talk about Personal Propective Equipment (PPE).  We cover the differences between the types of materials and hazards, from your boots to your ears and learn a lot about masks and meters.  Enjoy part 2!

For the first episode of 2021, I chop it up with Gene Muller, founder of Flying Fish Brewery in NJ and discuss his journey to find investors, set up a Virtual Brewery and other fun stories along the way!

We bring in Sloop's brewers Mariquita Reese & Harrison Forman to talk about heated blankets, Dry hopping, Double Dry Hopping, what it is, what it's not, what can go wrong during the process and other fun chatter about boardgames and breakfast foods.

A fun conversation with a friend, an experienced 5-location coffee shop owner, a Food & Beverage Consultant, Angela Vendetti.  We talk opportunity cost, online ordering, working smarter, delegating, mindset, partnerships, equity and tips on financing, 

You may experience the Fry's Scratch Kitchen when you visit your next PA Brewery or Distillery.  You won't be disappointed.  Here, we talk about their history, teamwork and the evolution of a business.  We discuss the importance of a Food Truck having a commissary, flexible employees, menu creativity and how beverage companies can pair best with a Food Truck.

This episode features Virginia-transplant Morgan Snyder Jr., Founder and Brewer of Buttonwoods Brewery (Cranston RI).  We discuss all the "Morgan's" in his life, who opens the mail, his work at the Bronx Brewery, and the tasty beers they're pumping out - including lagered saisons, sours, and the peanut butter Fluff stout.  We talk about his dogs, and using photography for can art.

Today, we speak with craft beverage attorney Matt Andersen of the Norris, McLaughlin law firm regarding the first steps of starting a brewery.  We talk licensing, applications, challenges and his top 3 tips.  Enjoy!

In this episode, I sit down with... myself!  That's right.  I'm reporting the PA Liquor Control Board alcohol guideline updates (as of July 22, 2020) for breweries, distilleries, wineries, bars & restaurants.  I feel your pain and I try to offer a little positivity at the end.  Be well!  

Here, I connect with long-time friend & former brewer, Jason Macias, now a Regional Sales Rep with Milwaukee-based Proximity Malt.  We talk about land sustainability, quality standards, their technology & equipment, the ABC's of malt, and how to avoid mistakes when purchasing malts as well as why they're a great partner for your brewery.

In this episode, I chat with the Brewers of PA Guild's Deputy Executive Director, Adam Harris, on legislation, advocacy and how his career has changed from being in policitics as the Chair of Pennsylvania’s House Liquor Control Committee.   We discuss laws, packaging, comradery and the benefits of joining an association or guild.  Enjoy!

In this episode, we chat with Tim Brown of Tannery Run about their recent Customer Engagement experiment.  They created a beer naming contest that generated over 150 submissions from the public and are finding new ways to stand out from all the social media clutter.  Enjoy!

A very funny conversation with Oxbow's Brewer Rachael Morris about her travels, studies and how she ended up at Oxbow Brewing Company.  But, we do hit on the outdoorsy culture, origins and hip-hop roots of Oxbow, the vibe of their different locations and Maine itself.  We're introduced to Rachael's rooster and also what "Benching" means.  You'll enjoy this!

In this episode, we discuss craftsmanship, heritage and all-things Hydrometers with owner Brady Marzella & Bill Kaster of Brady Instruments in Lykens, PA.  We discuss their dedication to quality, their history, the allowance of home brewing under President Jimmy Carter, and the different types and uses of hydrometers.  We dive into old-school equipment and good old-fashioned hard work.  Enjoy!

We were able to sit down with Marcus Baskerville, Co-Founder & Head Brewer at Weathered Souls Brewing (San Antonio TX) to discuss their incredible initiative entitled "Black is Beautiful" - They have over 900 beverage companies involved in just 30 days as "a collaborative effort to raise awareness for the injustices people of color face daily and raise funds for policy brutality reform and legal defenses for those who have been wronged."   

We thank you Marcus for all that your'e doing!

In this Episode, we chat with Dan Neff, Co-Owner and Head Distiller at ISCO Spirits in Providence, Rhode Island about their still, spirits, and recognition from Late Night Host Seth Myers.  We hit on sanitizer, cocktails to-go, guest bartenders, vodka with radish, whiskey in a wine glass, sustainability, and plenty more.

We had the pleasure to speak with Maureen Fabry, Co-Founder and Head Brewer of CraftRoots Brewing (Mass) about her 21-year brewing journey, sourcing locally, being the fastest growing brewery in the country, 32 oz. "Squealers", and delivering smiles to the community. We also discussed how & why this podcast began.  Enjoy!

Here, I speak with childhood friends Mike Beresky, Phil Harris and Jake Howell, owners of Second Sin Beer (Bristol, PA) on how they utilize their different skills to run a brewery together.  We discuss the evolution of Second Sin and what's up next for them, and you (surprise announcement - minute 27).

We sat down with Chad Kimmel, Founder of Grand Illusion Cider & Wine Bar and discussed his path from winemaker to Shippensburg Professor to Hard Cider Maker and creating a cohesive, whimsical theme in Carlisle PA.

We're discussing all-things oak foeders with Matt Walters, Co-Founder of Foeder Crafters of America - based in St. Louis MO.  They're the ONLY foeder manufacturer in the US!  We talk about Missouri Oak Trees, adding Becca Senn as President, how they determine whether or not the oak is worth their foeders, attending log auctions and puzzling.  We chat about working with Trillium, Tree House, and Side Project and tons of top-notch brewers.  Enjoy!

We chat with Christopher Hink, co-founder of Simple Days Beer. He's a graduate of the BruScience Program (See Episode 18) and his mother is his business partner.  We dicuss following your instincts with your company's name, location, logo

Here, we speak with Brendan Cawley, Chief Trafficking Officer of Righteous Felon Jerky Cartel in West Chester PA.  We discuss the beginnings of RF, their catchy names, collaborating with Victory Brewing, supplying healthy snacks to professional sports teams and those on the front lines during COVID19.   We hit on bringing all facets under one roof and a great primer on what the perfect pack of beef jerky should consist of.

Today, we speak with Risa McKenzie, Co-Founder of Hale & True Cider Company in Philadelphia PA.   We talk taproom aesthetics, fermented foods and the process of going from Apple to Glass.  We discuss apple varieties and how European cider differs from the US as well as offering cider courses at their cidery.

We got the opportunity to speak about all things Pink Boots Society with Erin Wallace, Owner of the Devil's Den Bar & President of the Philly Pink Boots Chapter.  We discuss fundraising, scholarships, Bold Women & Beer, and empowering the many terrific women in our beloved brewing industry!  

Luke Bowen of Evil Genius Beer Company in Philadelphia PA sits down to discuss how playing the guitar can spark creativity, especially when starting a brewery.  We hit on their collab with Jameson Caskmates, movies, seltzer and what's next for Trevor, Luke, Jon and team.