Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Quality-focused Pro Brewers
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fizzy But Flat: The Surprising Reason Your Hazy IPA Loses Its Head | QFPB E053 | 01 Sep 2026 | 00:12:48 | |
If you want a copy of the Beer Foam Fault Finder, comment FOAM FAULT FINDER below and I'll send it to you. A hazy IPA can pour with plenty of fizz—and still lose its head fast. In this episode, Hendo unpacks the difference between foam formation and foam stability. Carbonation and serving conditions are worth checking, but they are only the starting point. Durable foam is a systems outcome, shaped by the balance of contributors in the beer and the process history behind it. You’ll learn:
Dry hopping is not automatically the villain when it comes to head retention, and there is no single magic fix for every hazy IPA. The useful shift is to rethink how you think about foam stability in this beer. This episode is for serious home brewers and professional brewers who want a clearer, more methodical way to think about foam without relying on guesswork. Chapters Get My Free Guide - "The Pro-Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist" - https://bit.ly/3f6ryQB SOCIALS Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rockstarbrewerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockstarbrewer -------------------- DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| The Truth About Beer Oxidation: Hot Side vs Cold Side | QFPB E052 | 18 Aug 2026 | 00:19:20 | |
If you want the Dry Hopping SOP, comment DRY HOP SOP below and I’ll send it over. Your hazy IPA smells incredible after dry hopping… then just a few days later the aroma is gone. Most brewers assume they need more hops, a different variety, or another dry hop charge. But the real problem usually isn't the amount of hops—it's understanding how hop aroma actually works. In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo explains the two completely different families of hop aroma compounds—thiols and terpenes—and why each requires a different brewing strategy. You'll also learn why dissolved oxygen destroys hop aroma faster than most brewers realise, how dry hop timing affects biotransformation, and why one well-managed dry hop often outperforms multiple additions. In this episode you'll learn: Chapters Homebrewer, planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can build a quality system that brews consistent, world-class beer 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? Visit 👉 https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide DISCLAIMER This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations. If you click on one of these links, I may receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue producing content like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Your Hazy IPA Aroma Is Gone in 24 Hours - Here’s Why | QFPB E051 | 04 Aug 2026 | 00:16:34 | |
If you want the Dry Hopping SOP, comment DRY HOP SOP below and I’ll send it over. Your hazy IPA smells incredible after dry hopping… then just a few days later the aroma is gone. Most brewers assume they need more hops, a different variety, or another dry hop charge. But the real problem usually isn't the amount of hops—it's understanding how hop aroma actually works. In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo explains the two completely different families of hop aroma compounds—thiols and terpenes—and why each requires a different brewing strategy. You'll also learn why dissolved oxygen destroys hop aroma faster than most brewers realise, how dry hop timing affects biotransformation, and why one well-managed dry hop often outperforms multiple additions. In this episode you'll learn:
Chapters
Homebrewer, planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can build a quality system that brews consistent, world-class beer 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? Visit 👉 https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide SOCIALS YouTube: https://youtube.com/rockstarbrewer DISCLAIMER This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations. If you click on one of these links, I may receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue producing content like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| 5 All-Grain Brewing Mistakes Every Home Brewer Makes…From A Pro Brewer | QFPB E050 | 21 Jul 2026 | 00:15:23 | |
If you want the Sacred Trilogy Guide so you nail the numbers on your next brew day, comment “Sacred Trilogy” below and I’ll send it over. Making the jump from extract brewing to all-grain brewing is exciting—but it doesn't automatically make you a better brewer. In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo breaks down the five biggest all-grain brewing mistakes that quietly sabotage beer quality. From chasing mash efficiency instead of flavor, to overlooking water chemistry, fermentation planning, and packaging, you'll learn the practical systems professional brewers use to consistently brew world-class beer. Whether you're a home brewer, planning to open a brewery, or already brewing commercially, these lessons will help you stop brewing by accident and start brewing with intent. In this episode you'll learn:
Chapters
Homebrewer, planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can build a quality system that brews consistent, world-class beer 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI SOCIALS
DISCLAIMER This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations. If you click on one of these links, I may receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue producing content like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Your Beer is Taking 4 Days to Carbonate Because You're Doing This Wrong | QFPB E049 | 07 Jul 2026 | 00:12:00 | |
If you want the Hendo’s Carbonation Analyzer, comment “carbonation analyzer” below and I’ll send it over. Most brewers think that setting the correct head pressure is all it takes to carbonate beer. But if you're relying on head pressure alone, you're probably waiting anywhere from two to seven days—and still guessing whether you've actually hit your carbonation target. In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo explains the science behind Henry's Law, why carbonation is so slow when solely using head pressure, how carbonation stones dramatically speed up the process, why measuring carbonation matters more than tasting it, and the common myths stopping brewers from getting repeatable results. You'll also learn why so many brewers over-carbonate or under-carbonate their beer, how two members of The Rockstar Brewer Academy transformed their brewery by changing their carbonation process, and how you can build your own affordable carbonation analyser. In this episode you'll learn:
Chapters
Homebrewer, planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can brew the best batch of beer you’ve ever brewed. Check out my beer quality system here 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? Visit 👉 https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide SOCIALS
DISCLAIMER This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations. If you click on one of these links, I may receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue producing content like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Most Brewery Sensory Programs Fail. Here's Why | QFPB E048 | 23 Jun 2026 | 00:18:38 | |
If you want the sensory program guide, comment “sensory program guide” below and I’ll send it over. Most brewery sensory programs fail before they ever create value. Not because brewers aren't committed. Not because teams aren't capable. And not because they don't care about beer quality. They fail because they start in the wrong place. In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo breaks down why most sensory programs collapse within weeks, the biggest mistake breweries make when implementing sensory training, and the simple framework that turns sensory from an intimidating technical exercise into a practical quality system that your entire team can use. You'll discover why sensory programs aren't about identifying every off-flavor in beer, why beer judging and certifications don't solve brewery quality problems, and how to build a sensory system focused on the only question that really matters: Is this beer true to brand? Whether you're planning a brewery, opening your first commercial brewery, or already running a production facility, this episode will help you create a sensory program that actually improves consistency, protects your brand, and builds a culture of quality throughout your brewery. Chapter Markers
Homebrewer, planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can brew the best batch of beer you’ve ever brewed. Check out my beer quality system here 👉https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? SOCIALS
DISCLAIMER This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations. If you click on one of these links, I may receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue producing content like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Stop Tweaking Your Recipe: The Real Reason Your Beer Tastes Different Every Batch | QFPB E047 | 09 Jun 2026 | 00:13:32 | |
If you want the Golden Batch Recipe Tweak Sheet PDF, comment “tweak sheet” below and I’ll send it over. You brewed a batch of beer, and it came out amazing. The aroma was on point, the clarity was there, and the flavor hit exactly where you wanted it. But you can’t help yourself, so naturally, you started tweaking the recipe. Then the next batch wasn't quite the same. The problem isn't that you're changing your recipe. The problem is that you never captured why the first batch worked in the first place. In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo introduces the concept of the “Golden Batch” … the best version of a beer that becomes the benchmark for every future brew. You'll learn how to stop endlessly tweaking recipes, build repeatability into your brewing process, and create a documented standard that produces consistent results batch after batch. A recipe isn't dialed in because you brewed one great batch. It's dialed in when you can repeat it. Chapter Markers
Homebrewer, planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can brew the best batch of beer you’ve ever brewed. Check out my beer quality system here 👉https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? SOCIALS
DISCLAIMER This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations. If you click on one of these links, I may receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue producing content like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Your Beer Got Judged. Here's How To Decode What They're Actually Telling You | QFPB E046 | 26 May 2026 | 00:16:37 | |
If you want the Judge Feedback Fix PDF so you can integrate meaning improvements to your next batch of beer, comment “judge feedback fix” below and I’ll send it over. Beer competition feedback can feel brutal. You spend weeks dialing in your recipe, obsessing over water chemistry, fermentation, and dry hopping… only to get score sheets filled with confusing comments like “astringent,” “oxidized,” or “out of style.” But here’s the truth: Judge feedback is one of the fastest ways to improve your beer quality — if you know how to decode it correctly. In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo breaks down the exact framework you should use to turn beer competition judge feedback into actionable brewing improvements. Whether you’re a home brewer entering BJCP competitions or a commercial brewer chasing medals at the World Beer Cup or AIBA, this episode will help you stop guessing and start improving your beer with purpose. Chapter Markers
Homebrewer, planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can brew the best batch of beer you’ve ever brewed. Check out my beer quality system here 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? Visit 👉 https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide SOCIALS
DISCLAIMER This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations. If you click on one of these links, I may receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue producing content like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Why Most Brewers Don't Win Awards and How To Fix It | QFPB E045 | 12 May 2026 | 00:21:48 | |
If you want a copy of my Beer Competition Readiness Checklist, comment “COMP READY” below, and I’ll send it over. You spend weeks brewing the perfect beer. You obsess over your recipe, your fermentation, and your process. Your mates tell you it’s incredible. Then you enter it into a beer competition… and come home empty handed. The frustrating truth is that brewing a great tasting beer and brewing an award-winning beer are two completely different skills. In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo breaks down the hidden game behind beer competitions and reveals how judges actually score beer. You’ll learn the biggest mistakes brewers make, what separates medal-winning brewers from everyone else, and the exact competition strategies that can help you finally start bringing home the gold. Chapters:
Homebrewer, planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can build a quality system that brews consistent, world-class beer 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? SOCIALS
DISCLAIMER This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations. If you click on one of these links, I may receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue producing content like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| 5 Brewing Tricks You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner | QFPB E044 | 28 Apr 2026 | 00:16:32 | |
If you want the perfect, comment “perfect” below and I’ll send it over. Ever feel like you're chasing the perfect brew… but your beer is inconsistent batch to batch? In this episode, we break down the real reason your beer isn’t repeatable — and it’s not your ingredients. The difference between average brewers and world-class brewers comes down to process, measurement, and control. You’ll learn 5 powerful brewing techniques that will transform your results — without buying expensive gear. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a system to brew consistent, high-quality beer every single time. What you’ll learn:
Chapters: Homebrewer, planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can build a quality system that brews consistent, world-class beer 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? ---------------- ---------------- DISCLAIMER | |||
| The Truth About Brewing Water Chemistry: Why pH Matters | QFPB E043 | 14 Apr 2026 | 00:19:41 | |
If you want the 10 minute check, comment “10 minute check” below and I’ll send it over. For hundreds of years, brewing was a gamble. Same recipe, same ingredients… completely different results. What changed everything wasn’t better ingredients or better brewers. It was a single number: pH. In this episode, we break down how the invention of the pH scale transformed brewing from guesswork into a precise, repeatable process—and how you can use it to dramatically improve your beer. From mash efficiency to fermentation health, bitterness quality to final flavor—pH is the master control dial. If you’re not measuring and controlling it, you’re brewing blind. Here’s what you’ll learn:
Chapter Markers 00:00 Brewing Was a Gamble Homebrewer, planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can build a quality system that brews consistent, world-class beer 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? ---------------- DISCLAIMER | |||
| 5 Hop Secrets For Brewing a Better IPA | QFPB E042 | 31 Mar 2026 | 00:18:44 | |
If you want my IPA Water Profile Guide, comment “IPA Water Profile” below and I’ll send it over. You brew your favourite IPA recipe. Everything looks dialed in. Brew day went well and you hit your numbers. Fermentation looks clean. Then you take that first sip… And something’s off. Maybe it’s lacking the hop aroma you desired. Maybe it’s harsh. Maybe there’s even a weird… cheesy or sweaty sock note. It’s so frustrating! So you think… “No worries - I’ll just add more hops next time.” But here’s the thing. You don’t need more hops. You need control. In this week’s episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, I break down the 5 hidden enemies of IPA hops… and exactly how to eliminate them. Here’s what you’ll discover:
Chapter Markers:
Homebrewer, planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can build a quality system that brews consistent, world-class beer 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? SOCIALS
DISCLAIMER This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations. If you click on one of these links, I may receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue producing content like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| The Brewery “Black Box” Problem (And How to Fix It) | QFPB E041 | 17 Mar 2026 | 00:13:28 | |
Homebrewer, planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can build a quality system that brews consistent world-class beer 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI You finish brew day. The numbers are perfect. Two weeks later… you package the beer. Then you taste it and think: “There’s something’s wrong with this.” And by that point, it’s already too late to fix it. In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, I break down one of the biggest hidden problems in brewing: The Brewery “Black Box.” It’s what happens between yeast pitch and packaging - when brewers stop measuring, stop guiding fermentation, and simply hope the beer turns out right. You don’t need to buy more equipment. You just need to replace hope with process. When you guide fermentation with clear targets and measurements, you can:
Your brewery shouldn’t be a black box. It should be a glass box, where you know exactly what’s happening at every stage of fermentation. Chapter Markers:
If you want the Brewery Black Box Eliminator PDF, comment “black box” below and I’ll send it over to you. 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? SOCIALS
DISCLAIMER This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations. If you click on one of these links, I may receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue producing content like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| The Secret Science Behind Lagering Explained | 03 Mar 2026 | 00:19:26 | |
Homebrewer, planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can build a quality system that brews consistent world-class beer 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI Tying up a fermentation tank for 2… 3… even 4 months for one single batch of lager? That’s not tradition. That’s a bottleneck. In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, I break down one of the biggest myths in brewing: that long, multi-month lagering is required to make clean, world-class lager. It’s not. If you’re a homebrewer, that’s a fermentation chamber held hostage. If you’re a pro brewer, that’s lost production, wasted energy, and frozen cash flow. Inside this episode, you’ll learn:
This isn’t about cutting corners. It’s about replacing the calendar with science. When you understand yeast health, fermentation control, and maturation strategy, you can:
The magic isn’t in the calendar. It’s in the yeast. Chapter Markers: 00:00 – The Long Lager Myth If you want the 4-phase plan that removes mystery from fermentation and maturation, comment “black box” below and I’ll send you the PDF. Cheers 🍺 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? Visit https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide SOCIALS: YouTube: https://youtube.com/rockstarbrewer DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations which means that if you click on one of the product links I'll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Cracking the Code: Creating a Successful Brewery Beer Lineup | QFPB E039 | 17 Feb 2026 | 00:16:23 | |
Homebrewer, planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can build a quality system that brews consistent world-class beer 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI What if the thing you love most about your brewery — creating exciting new beers — is the exact reason your brewery is so challenging to manage? In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo from the Rockstar Brewer Academy breaks down a common mistake craft breweries make: bloated tap lists, chaotic production schedules, and too many low-margin SKUs fighting for tank space. Through Chris's real-world story, you'll learn how narrowing your core range to just the strategic beers can:
This isn't about brewing less. It's about brewing smarter. Chapter Markers: 02:15 – The Hidden Chaos Behind "Creative" Tap Lists 05:30 – How Stockouts & SKU Bloat Drain Profit 08:05 – The Operating System Shift That Changed Everything 10:40 – The 80/20 Audit Most Brewers Avoid 14:00 – The Core Beer Range That Pays the Bill 19:45 – Seasonals, Scarcity & Smarter Scheduling 24:30 – Standardizing Ingredients & Unlocking Hidden Capacity If you want consistent world-class beer, stronger margins, and less stress in your brewery, this episode gives you the blueprint. Comment MAP below and get the free Beer Lineup Map PDF to audit your brewery like a pro. 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? Visit https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide SOCIALS: Facebook: https://facebook.com/rockstarbrewer Instagram: https://instagram.com/rockstarbrewer TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rockstarbrewer DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product link,s I'll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| The Most Dangerous Lie Home Brewers Believe Before Opening a Brewery | QFPB E038 | 03 Feb 2026 | 00:19:26 | |
Homebrewer planning to open a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can build a quality system that brews consistent world-class beer 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, I break down the single most dangerous lie in the craft beer industry — and the five delusions home brewers fall for when trying to go pro. This isn't a story about bad beer. It's a story about mindset, systems, and the brutal gap between a hobby and a sustainable business. You'll learn:
If you're planning a brewery, building one, or already operating — this episode will save you from learning these lessons the expensive way. CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Introduction: The Dream Brewery That Failed01:01 The Most Dangerous Lie in Craft Beer02:23 Delusion #105:43 Delusion #208:50 Delusion #312:19 Delusion #415:05 Delusion #518:39 How To Win The Pro Brewing Game 🎯Want my 8-point Beer Quality System checklist? Visit https://rockstarbrewer.com/qualitysystem SOCIALS:YouTube: https://youtube.com/rockstarbrewerFacebook: https://facebook.com/rockstarbrewerInstagram: https://instagram.com/rockstarbrewerTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rockstarbrewer DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations which means that if you click on one of the product links I'll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Ditch The Chaos And Brew With CONTROL Using The Sacred Trilogy | QFPBE037 | 20 Jan 2026 | 00:15:04 | |
Home brewer planning a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days, you can build a quality system that brews consistent world-class beer 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI If your brew days feel chaotic and your beer never turns out as expected, this episode is for you. Discover how to achieve pro-level consistency by mastering the Sacred Trilogy of brew day measurements. Learn how to take control of these three critical numbers to ensure your beer turns out exactly as planned, every time. From avoiding common brew day pitfalls to using practical tools like the Lauter Cheat Sheet, this episode arms you with everything you need for the perfect brew day. Don't settle for hoping your beer turns out great—take control and brew with intent. Watch till the end for exclusive tips and tools that will revolutionize your brewing process. Cheers! CHAPTER MARKERS:
🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? Visit https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations which means that if you click on one of the product links I'll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Acid Under Pressure CIP In Your Brewery - Should You Be Using It? | 06 Jan 2026 | 00:15:53 | |
Home brewer planning a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days you can build a quality system that brews consistent world-class beer 👉https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI Most breweries still vent clean and repurge bright tanks, and it burns cash, risks oxidation, and slows production. Hendo from Rockstar Brewer Academy shows a smarter way to acid under pressure CIP, keep the tank sealed under CO2, clean with acid, not caustic, and get back to packaging faster, protect hop aroma, cut utility spend, and speed up tank turns 📌 In this video, you'll learn
CHAPTER MARKERS:
🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? Comment GUIDE below or visit https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide SOCIALS: YouTube: https://youtube.com/rockstarbrewer Facebook: https://facebook.com/rockstarbrewer Instagram: https://instagram.com/rockstarbrewer TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rockstarbrewer -------------------- DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations which means that if you click on one of the product links I'll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Formulate a Killer Sour Beer | 09 Dec 2025 | 00:18:53 | |
Home brewer planning a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days you can build a quality system that brews consistent world-class beer 👉https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI Brewing sour beers can be immensely frustrating due to their unpredictable nature. In this episode of Quality Focus Pro Brewers, Hendo from Rockstar Brewer Academy offers a comprehensive guide to mastering kettle sour beers. Covering key areas, including the foundation of malt, hops, and water, controlling variables, selecting the right microorganisms, and perfecting your process. Hendo reveals how to achieve clean, balanced, and repeatable sour beers every time. This episode is essential for home brewers and commercial brewers who want to move from guesswork to professional-quality control and take the anxiety out of brewing. Learn how to make vibrant, stable, and safe sour beers with techniques that will save you time, money, and effort. 📌 In this video, you will learn
CHAPTER MARKERS:
🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? Comment GUIDE below or visithttps://rockstarbrewer.com/guide SOCIALS: YouTube:https://youtube.com/rockstarbrewer Facebook:https://facebook.com/rockstarbrewer Instagram:https://instagram.com/rockstarbrewer TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@rockstarbrewer -------------------- DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations which means that if you click on one of the product links I'll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| 5 Brewing Rules You Need to Unlearn | QFPB E034 | 25 Nov 2025 | 00:15:52 | |
Home brewer planning a brewery or already running one? In just 60 days you can build a quality system that brews consistent world-class beer 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI In this episode of Quality Focus Pro Brewers, Hendo from Rockstar Brewer Academy explains why your beer might lack that professional polish, even if you follow conventional wisdom. Hendo reveals that sticking with outdated rules and oversimplifications from traditional brewing guidance might be holding your beer back. Dive in to learn about the modern approach to brewing, including debunking myths around mash and boil times, sparge water temperatures, yeast handling, lager fermentation temperatures, and the obsession with IBUs. This episode is a must-watch if you want to elevate your brewing skills from following recipes to understanding the 'why' behind the process, making decisions like a seasoned brewer, and ultimately creating unforgettable beer. 📌 In this video you will learn ✅ Why the classic 60 minute mash and 60 minute boil are often unnecessary with modern highly modified malt and how to mash a little hotter a little shorter until conversion is done ✅ How to control DMS through proper wort pH around 5.4 and open boiling rather than extending boil time by default ✅ Why pH and gravity at the end of lautering drive tannin extraction more than sparge temperature and how to use a pH meter and stop runnings at safe cutoffs ✅ How simple yeast harvesting and repitching can slash costs from about 20 dollars per keg to about 50 cents per keg without a full micro lab by using solid sanitation a microscope and a hemocytometer ✅ How to ferment clean lagers faster with 34 70 at warmer temps around 15 C to 17 C to finish in weeks not months ✅ Why IBUs are a lab number not a flavor target and how water profile sulfate to chloride hop timing and dry hop rates shape perceived bitterness better than chasing a single IBU value CHAPTER MARKERS: 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? Comment GUIDE below or visit https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide SOCIALS: DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations which means that if you click on one of the product links I'll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Why Do WORLD CLASS Brewers Use This Water Profile Number? | QFPB E033 | 11 Nov 2025 | 00:18:25 | |
Home brewer, planning a brewery, or already running one? In just 60 days you can build a quality system that brews consistent, world-class beer. 👉 https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI Discover the secret to brewing exceptional beers with this secret water profile number. In this video, we'll dive into the world of world-class brewers and explore the one water profile number they swear by. From the science behind water chemistry to the impact on flavour and quality, we'll reveal the reasons why top brewers rely on this specific number in their water profile to create award-winning beers. Whether you're a home brewer, pro-brewer or somewhere in between, this video will give you the inside scoop on how to take your brewing to the next level. Get ready to elevate your brewing game and learn the secrets of the world's best brewers. 00:00 Introduction: The Missing Element in Your Beer 01:45 The Hidden Secret Number Of Beer Flavour 02:43 Understanding pH and Its Limitations 05:08 The Role of Alkalinity and Buffering Capacity 07:50 The Importance of Titrable Acidity in Beer Flavor 11:00 Practical Application: Measuring Titrable Acidity 14:25 Real-World Examples of Why pH Is Not The Same As TA 16:20 Conclusion: Upgrading Your Water Profile For Your Next Brew 18:12 Final Thoughts and Next Steps 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? Comment "GUIDE" below or visit https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide SOCIALS: YouTube: https://youtube.com/rockstarbrewer Facebook: https://facebook.com/rockstarbrewer Instagram: https://instagram.com/rockstarbrewer TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rockstarbrewer —----------- DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I'll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Toxic Brewing Advice Is Ruining Your Beer | QFPB E032 | 28 Oct 2025 | 00:16:31 | |
Home brewer, planning a brewery, or already running one? In just 60 days, you can build a quality system that brews consistent, world-class beer. 👉 The Rockstar Beer Quality System (Explained Step-by-Step) Tired of arrogant, conflicting brewing advice that crushes your confidence? Online brewing forums and Facebook groups are drowning in dogmatic gatekeeping that actively harms the craft. As a professional brewer, I’ve watched countless brewers get their enthusiasm destroyed by toxic advice culture that prioritizes ego over education. 📌 In this video you’ll learn: ✅ Why the “my way or the highway” mentality is killing creativity in brewing ✅ How equipment gatekeeping discourages new brewers and disrespects brewing history ✅ Why hostility toward DIY innovation creates stagnant echo chambers ✅ How treating recipes as holy scripture stops you from truly understanding ingredients ✅ Why shaming beginners is the most destructive form of brewing toxicity ✅ How to build your unique brewing process with confidence regardless of your equipment or experience level The truth is, you are the boss of your brewery and there’s no right or wrong way to brew — there’s only your way. Great beer can be made with basic equipment when you understand core principles like sanitation, temperature control, and yeast health. Your brain is the most important brewing equipment you’ll ever own. Join me as we expose the worst toxic advice plaguing brewing communities and discover how to reclaim the creativity, experimentation, and joy that should be at the heart of this craft. Share your worst toxic brewing advice experiences in the comments below. CHAPTERS00:00 Exposing Toxic Brewing Advice00:56 Introduction to the Rockstar Brewer Academy01:06 The 'My Way or the Highway' Mentality03:43 Debunking Equipment Gatekeeping06:16 Championing Innovation and DIY Solutions09:31 The Problem with Treating Recipes as Holy Scripture12:06 Shaming Beginners: The Most Fundamental Toxicity13:51 Building a Positive Brewing Community15:20 Final Thoughts and Call to Action 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist?Comment GUIDE below or visit https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide SOCIALS: DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Most Brewers IGNORE These Fermentation Mistakes | QFPB E031 | 14 Oct 2025 | 00:18:58 | |
Home brewer, planning a brewery, or already running one? In just 60 days, you can build a quality system that brews consistent, world-class beer. Stop treating fermentation like a black box and start engineering world-class beer with complete control. If your beer tastes different batch after batch despite following the same recipe, you’re not alone. The problem isn’t your ingredients or equipment — it’s a lack of fermentation process control. This video reveals the exact 5-step system professional breweries use to achieve perfect consistency every single time. 📍 In this video, you will learn:
Whether you’re a home brewer planning your first commercial system or already running a brewery, this professional approach will eliminate guesswork and give you total control over your fermentation process. Transform your brewing from hope-based to science-based manufacturing. CHAPTERS
Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? Comment GUIDE below or visit rockstarbrewer.com/checklist SOCIALS
DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I may receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Most Breweries DON'T SELL BEER - They Sell This Instead | QFPB E030 | 30 Sep 2025 | 00:14:08 | |
Home brewer, planning a brewery, or already running one? In just 60 days you can build a quality system that brews consistent, world-class beer. 👉 Watch now on Youtube https://youtu.be/NZy7pdDhyEI WHY CONSISTENCY MATTERS MORE THAN RECIPES FOR BREWERY SUCCESS Most breweries don't actually sell beer - they sell wort. And that's a problem because your customers aren't buying ingredients or your mash temperature - they're buying a promise that must be fulfilled with every single pour. In this comprehensive guide to brewery quality systems you'll discover the crucial difference between making good wort and delivering consistently excellent beer. Drawing from the catastrophic New Coke failure and real-world brewery examples we'll explore why the trust bond with your customers is your most valuable asset. 📌 In this video, you'll learn: ✅ Why the "New Coke" disaster holds critical lessons for every brewery owner ✅ The fundamental difference between beer quality (technical excellence) and beer value (customer perception) ✅ Why even "boring" macro lagers represent masterclass examples of technical brewing excellence ✅ How to build your brewing "freeway" with standardized operating procedures ✅ Why instrument calibration and measurement accuracy make or break your beer quality ✅ The essential components of a professional product specification system ✅ How to create a brewery-wide culture of quality ownership ✅ Implementing continuous improvement cycles to protect your brand's reputation Stop rolling the dice with inconsistent brewing. This practical guide shows you exactly how to transform your brewery from recipe-focused to process-driven using proven systems that establish reliable quality and build customer trust. Learn why hype is a short-term game but quality builds lasting brewery legacies. 00:00 Introduction: The Hard Truth About Brewing 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? SOCIALS: DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations which means that if you click on one of the product links I'll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Discover the 5 Secrets to Brewing WORLD CLASS Hazy IPAs! | QFPB E029 | 17 Sep 2025 | 00:19:16 | |
Want to build a brewery-quality system in just 60 days that actually works? Brew consistent, world-class beer - start with my free Crash Course 👉 https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse Stop chasing the perfect hop combination or endlessly tweaking your grain bill. The key to brewing consistently exceptional hazy IPAs lies in mastering five critical process elements that professional brewers control with precision. If your hazies look like muddy dishwater after packaging or lose their vibrant hop aroma within days these five professional brewing secrets will transform your results. This comprehensive guide goes beyond recipes to reveal the chemistry and biology behind truly world-class New England IPAs. 📌 In this advanced brewing tutorial you'll discover:
Learn how these principles helped create the Champion Beer at the Royal Adelaide Beer Insider Awards against 2400 competitors. This isn't just about following a recipe - it's about understanding the science behind creating hazy IPAs that remain vibrant and stable for weeks while delivering that explosive juicy hop character customers crave. 00:00 Introduction: The Secret to a Killer Hazy IPA 02:31 Understanding Water Chemistry 05:39 Modern Grist Engineering 08:06 Intelligent Hopping Techniques 12:44 Yeast: The Flavor Engine 15:31 Cold Side Pitfalls and Final Tips 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist?Comment "GUIDE" below or visit https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide SOCIALS: YouTube: https://youtube.com/rockstarbrewer Facebook: https://facebook.com/rockstarbrewer Instagram: https://instagram.com/rockstarbrewer TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rockstarbrewer DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I'll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Pasteurization: The Dirty Word That Will Save Your Craft Brewery | QFPB E028 | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:14:43 | |
Want to build a brewery-quality system in just 60 days that actually works? Discover why the stigma against pasteurization is putting your brewery at risk and how embracing this scientific tool can protect your brand from exploding cans, product recalls, and potentially devastating lawsuits. The craft beer industry has long demonized pasteurization as the enemy of flavor and authenticity, but this dangerous myth is causing real problems – especially with the booming non-alcoholic beer market (projected to hit $35 billion by 2033) and trendy fruited sours that are literally exploding in consumers’ fridges. In this comprehensive guide you’ll learn:
This isn't about "selling out" – it's about professional brewing practices that guarantee consistency, shelf stability, and brand reputation. Learn how modern pasteurization technology can be implemented affordably even in small craft breweries without compromising your beer's character. Timestamps:
🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? SOCIALS: DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| I've Helped 500+ Pro-Brewers - These Are The 10 Non-Negotiables | QFPB E027 | 19 Aug 2025 | 00:16:03 | |
🔥 Want to brew consistent, world-class beer without the chaos? Start with my free Crash Course 👉 https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse If Moses was a brewer, these are the rules he’d carve in stainless steel. After 15+ years helping thousands of pro brewers in 47 countries, I’ve seen what separates average beer from absolute bangers. In this episode of the Quality-Focused Pro Brewers Podcast, I’m laying down the 10 non-negotiable commandments of professional brewing – from process control to mindset shifts – so you can eliminate inconsistency, brew with confidence, and finally build a brewery you’re proud of. ⚠️ Break these rules at your own risk… because every time a commandment is ignored, a batch somewhere dies. 📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
⏱️ Chapters
🎯 Get the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist Comment “GUIDE” below or grab it at 👉 https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide 🔗 Follow for more brewing wisdom:
If you want to brew beer that’s consistent, high-quality, and damn drinkable – hit subscribe and let’s raise the brewing standard together. 🍺 DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| The Brite Tank Explosion Story Every Pro Brewer Needs to Hear | QFPB E026 | 05 Aug 2025 | 00:12:42 | |
Want to build a brewery quality system in just 60 days that actually works? Brew consistent, world-class beer – start with my free Crash Course 👉 https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse On the ninth day of my first pro brewing job, a 1200L bright beer tank exploded right in front of me — and everything changed. In this deeply personal and practical episode, I break down what happened, the human and operational cost of that accident, and the exact safety system I now teach brewers to make sure no one else goes through what I did.If you care more about people than just the beer, this episode is for you. ⚠️ Learn how to: - Spot the real risks hiding in plain sight in your brewery - Build a proactive safety system based on 5 proven principles - Use safety to improve not just protection — but beer quality, efficiency, and profitability 0:00 My First Job as a Pro Brewer – The Rookie Mindset 0:30 Carbonating the Bright Tank – A Routine Task That Went Horribly Wrong 3:30 The Real Danger: Pressure Vessels 4:00 How Accidents Really Happen – Swiss Cheese Theory 4:25 The Human Cost of Brewery Accidents 5:00 Safety Always Beats Quality 5:20 3 Real Brewery Accidents I’ve Witnessed 5:48 Safety Isn’t PPE – It’s a System 6:01 The 5 Principles of Brewery Safety 9:12 Involve the Team & Review Often 10:09 Safety Culture Improves Quality & Profitability 11:26 Why I Tell This Story — And My Mission 12:20 Share This Message — The Life You Save Might Be Your Own🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist?Comment “GUIDE” below or visit https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide SOCIALS: YouTube: https://youtube.com/@RockstarBrewer Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rockstarbrewer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockstarbrewer Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/rockstarbrewer TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@RockstarBrewer DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| 3 Beer Packaging Mistakes KILLING Your Brand | QFPB E025 | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:19:11 | |
Want to build a brewery quality system in just 60 days that actually works? Brew consistent, world-class beer – start with my free Crash Course 👉 https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse Packaging might be the final step of the beer production process, but it’s also the most critical. One misstep, one refermentation incident or exploding can complaint, and all the hard work you poured into raw materials, fermentation, and maturation can vaporize overnight. In this episode I’ll show you how top breweries protect their brand and their bottom line with a simple, systematic approach to packaging quality beer. 📌 What You’ll Learn
⏱️ Episode Chapters
🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist? SOCIALS: DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Brew Like a Pro: The SECRET CIP Systems For Consistent Beer | QFPB E024 | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:18:59 | |
Want to build a brewery quality system in just 60 days that actually works? Brew consistent, world-class beer - start with my free Crash Course 👉 https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse Most brewers think more caustic = more clean. But what if I told you that's a myth? In this episode, I’ll show you how CIP isn’t just a cleaning task—it’s a critical system for producing consistent, world-class beer. I’ll share a real story from one of our Rockstar Brewer Academy members whose beer kept getting contaminated even after blasting tanks with chemicals—until we fixed one key thing. You'll learn: - Why your tanks might look clean but still harbour microbe risks. - The 5 levers of effective CIP. - How to turn your brewery’s cleaning into a repeatable, bulletproof process. Whether you’re brewing on a 100hL system or in a garage, if you don’t have a CIP register or an approved chemicals list… this episode’s a must.👇 CHAPTERS 👇 00:00 – Intro & importance of CIP 01:42 – The myth of "more chemical = more clean" 03:00 – Simon’s story: Contamination despite heavy dosing 06:00 – Built caustic vs. pearl caustic 10:26 – The 4 battles of CIP 11:13 – The 5 dials of effective CIP 13:16 – GMP, ATP meters & brewery accountability 15:26 – Tools: Wall of Wisdom & CIP register 17:11 – Wrap-up & Rockstar Brewer Academy invitation 🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist?Comment “GUIDE” below or visit https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide SOCIALS: Youtube: https://youtube.com/@RockstarBrewerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rockstarbrewerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockstarbrewerTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/rockstarbrewerTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@RockstarBrewer--------------------DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| How to Win a Commercial Beer Competition (Tips from an International Beer Judge) | QFPB E023 | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:23:19 | |
In this episode of the Quality-focused Pro Brewers, discover exactly how to win big at commercial beer competitions like the Australian International Beer Awards (AIBA), World Beer Cup, and European Beer Star. Hendo breaks down how professional brewers can use judge feedback to dial in process improvements and not just tweak recipes blindly. Learn the secrets behind selecting the right styles, presenting your beers properly, avoiding common faults like oxidation or diacetyl, and turning medals into marketing gold. Plus, hear real success stories from Rockstar Brewer Academy members who boosted quality, sales, and reputation through award wins. If you want to raise your brewery’s profile and brew beers that judges (and drinkers) love, this episode is essential listening. 00:00 – Why Some Breweries Always Win Medals00:45 – Real Story: Champion Australian Beer out of 2,400 Entries01:12 – Hendo’s Life as an International Beer Judge03:00 – How Commercial Beer Competitions Work05:00 – Where Most Brewers Get Feedback Wrong07:50 – Judging Criteria and Blind Process11:15 – Scored vs. Ranked Competitions13:15 – Using Judge Feedback for Continuous Improvement16:40 – Why Awards Matter More Than You Think19:00 – Tips for Picking Styles & Categories21:00 – Free Tools & Next Steps Whenever you’re ready, here are 5 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer you’re proud of — whether you’re planning a new brewery or already up and running: 1⃣ Join the Quality-Focused Pro Brewers Facebook GroupI share loads of practical, pro-level brewing content in my free group: Quality-Focused Pro Brewers. No stainless steel spam. No home brewers. Just serious beer talk. https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com 2⃣ Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re sick of conflicting “research” and want to fast-track real improvements, grab this simple 5-step guide. https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide 3⃣ Get the 30-Minute Crash CourseSee exactly how top breweries build rock-solid beer quality and consistency. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to set up a system, lock in process control, and keep the creativity flowing. https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse 4⃣ Apply to Join the Rockstar Brewer AcademyReady to take the next step? The Rockstar Brewer Academy is for pro brewers serious about installing proven quality systems and brewing beer they’re truly proud of — batch after batch. Spots are limited, so apply here: https://rockstarbrewer.com/apply 5⃣ Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomWant my help? Book a quick Calibration Call and let’s see how we can get you brewing more consistent, high-quality beer — fast. https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Pressure Fermentation: Homebrewer Gimmick or Pro Brewer Game-Changer? | QFPB E022 | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:20:47 | |
Is pressure fermentation the secret weapon for faster, cleaner beer—or just a homebrewer gimmick?In this episode of the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast, we dig deep into the real science, risks, and rewards of pressure fermentation in a commercial brewery. You’ll learn: What pressure fermentation actually does (and doesn’t do) The yeast physiology behind it Styles and strains it works for (and which it doesn’t) How to trial it without screwing up your beer Plus, how to avoid serious safety issues when fermenting under pressure Download the Free Craft Brewery Yeast Propagator Build Guide: https://rockstarbrewer.com/yeastpropagator Ready to master yeast husbandry, save 90% on yeast costs, and dial in pro fermentation systems? Book a free 15-min Calibration Call With Hendo: https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration 00:00 – Is Pressure Fermentation Just a Gimmick? 01:00 – Pressure Fermentation’s Home Brewing Roots 03:02 – The Real Problem: Treating Pressure as a Shortcut 04:16 – Think of Yeast Like a Pet, Not a Product 05:34 – All the Fermentation Dials You Control 06:22 – What Pressure Fermentation Actually Does 09:32 – How to Trial Pressure Fermentation Properly 10:36 – Fit for Use + True to Brand = Your Quality Compass 11:06 – Critical Factors for a Successful Trial 12:59 – Safety Protocols for Fermenting Under Pressure 13:55 – Styles & Strains That Work With Pressure 15:36 – Styles & Strains That Don’t Work 16:35 – Side-by-Side Trials & Benefits Recap 17:24 – Free Resource: Build Your Own Yeast Propagator 19:02 – Final Thoughts: Trial, Don’t Guess Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running: 1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook group I post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com 2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide 3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse 4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Brew Day Variability = Bad Beer. Here’s How to Fix Wort Production Once & For All! | QFPB E021 | 27 May 2025 | 00:18:39 | |
You’re tracking the wrong numbers on brew day.If you’ve ever missed gravity, oversparged, or blindly followed BeerSmith and wondered why your beer turns out inconsistent, this episode will change how you brew forever. In this episode, I introduce The Sacred Trilogy — the three measurements that truly matter for wort production: OG, pH, and temperature. You’ll learn how to ignore the noise, stop chasing volume or efficiency, and instead stay in control of what really affects your beer quality. I’ll also show you two powerful tools: The Dilution Calculation – for hitting your OG perfectly every time The Lauter Cheat Sheet – to prevent tannin extraction and chill haze Whether you’re a solo pro brewer or managing a team, this is how you make brew day simple, predictable, and scalable. 00:00 – The Real Reason Your Wort Is Inconsistent 01:03 – Why Most Brew Day Metrics Are Just Noise 02:31 – The Sacred Trilogy of Wort Production 06:36 – OG, Wort pH & Temperature Explained 08:44 – The Danger of Chasing Volume and Efficiency 09:54 – The Dilution Calculation 11:33 – Lauter Cheat Sheet & The 6/3 Rule 13:21 – Lauter to Gravity, Not Volume 14:10 – 10-Minute Check: Gravity, pH & Adjustments 16:24 – Final Check: Knockout Temperature 17:05 – Free Resources & Taking Action 18:30 – Reflection: Are You Tracking the Right Numbers? Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running: 1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook group I post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com 2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide 3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse 4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Why The Beer You Brew Isn’t Consistent – And How to Fix It! | QFPB E020 | 13 May 2025 | 00:19:54 | |
In this episode of the Quality Focused Pro Brewers podcast, Hendo from Rockstar Brewer Academy discusses how professional brewers can gain control over their brewing process and make consistent, high-quality beer. Hendo emphasizes the importance of setting clear targets and tolerances throughout the brewing process rather than constantly tweaking recipes. He explains the concepts of ‘fit for use’ and ‘true to brand,’ the difference between accuracy and precision, and introduces a tool called ‘The Wall of Wisdom’ for documenting targets and tolerances as well as other beer metrics. Key topics include the necessity of accurate measurements, regular equipment calibration, and having a clear production plan to ensure consistency. 00:00 Intro: Why Your Beer Isn’t Consistent (and It’s Not the Recipe)01:27 What Are Targets & Tolerances?06:36 Accuracy vs Precision: Are Your Instruments Lying to You?10:56 From Guessing to Knowing: Stop Relying on Batch Logs13:36 The Freeway Analogy: Structure vs Styling in Brewing15:01 Using Product Specs and the Wall of Wisdom17:23 Brewery Standard Tolerances: Your Trigger for Action18:56 Final Call to Action: Build Your System, Not Just a Recipe Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running:1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook groupI post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com 2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide 3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse 4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| How to Brew a Killer West Coast Pale Ale or IPA – My Step-by-Step Guide | QFPB E019 | 29 Apr 2025 | 00:21:45 | |
Reviving the Classic West Coast Pale Ale and IPA Style – Brewing with Precision and Passion. Join me as I dive deep into the art of brewing a classic West Coast Pale Ale or IPA. Remember when these beers were clear, crisp, and had that firm, piney bitterness? Somewhere along the line, we lost that iconic style, but today we’ll bring it back. I’ll guide you through the five key principles of crafting a clean, stable, and award-winning brew that sells by the pint. We’ll cover everything from selecting the right malt base to mastering water chemistry and hop selection. Plus, get your hands on a free roadmap to improve the quality of every brew you make. It’s time to make Pale Ale and IPA exciting again. Let’s get brewing! 00:00 Introduction: The Lost Art of Pale Ales and IPAs 00:19 Reviving the Classic West Coast Style 01:24 The Hazification Of Modern Brewing And How We Go Back 02:53 Key Principles for Brewing a Classic West Coast Pale Ale or IPA 05:56 Recipe Development: Malt Base and Bitterness 10:08 Hop Selection and Dry Hopping Techniques 14:43 Yeast and Fermentation Tips 16:55 Water Chemistry and Final Thoughts 19:28 Conclusion: Crafting Your Signature Pale Ale or IPA Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running:1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook groupI post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com 2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide 3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse 4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Unlock MASSIVE Hop Aroma, Flavour & Cost Savings With Enzymes: Brew Better Beer with Less | QFPB E018 | 15 Apr 2025 | 00:41:45 | |
A Deep Dive into Brewing Enzymes. In this episode, Hendo & Adsy explore how enzymes can enhance hop aroma, reduce chill haze, and improve brewhouse efficiency without altering the beer recipe. They cover the science behind different enzymes like Amyloglucosidase and Bioglucanase, common misconceptions, and their practical applications in brewing. This detailed discussion provides professional brewers with insights on using enzymes to make better beer faster while maintaining quality. The episode emphasizes data-driven approaches and the natural occurrence of enzymes, addressing common concerns about the use of enzymes in craft brewing. 00:00 Introduction 01:51 What Are Enzymes? 02:33 The Role of Enzymes in Beer Production 04:38 Enzymes Beyond the Mash Tun 08:33 Optimizing Brewing Efficiency with Enzymes 13:34 Specific Enzymes and Their Applications 17:49 Natural Enzymes and Craft Brewing 21:23 Understanding Gluten and Clarex Enzyme 22:53 Common Mistakes with Enzymes 23:11 Debunking Enzyme Myths: ALDC Enzyme & Dry Hop Creep 28:35 Proper Use and Timing of Enzymes 31:43 Biotransformation and New Enzyme Uses 35:38 Measuring Enzyme Impact on Beer Quality 38:46 Proprietary Enzymes and Final Thoughts Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running:1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook groupI post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com 2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide 3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse 4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| The Smart Pro-Brewer’s Guide to Learning: Consultant, Course, or Coaching? | QFPB E017 | 02 Apr 2025 | 00:42:25 | |
In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo from the Rockstar Brewer Academy discusses the best ways for professional brewers to improve their skills and knowledge, including hiring a brewery consultant, obtaining a formal brewing education, or participating in a coaching program. Hendo outlines the pros and cons of each method, emphasizing the importance of urgency, budget, and learning style in making a decision. The episode also features insights from Adsy, who chats about his recent experiences, and real-world examples of brewers who have benefitted from different paths. For those seeking continuous improvement and support in their brewing journey, the Rockstar Brewer Academy offers a comprehensive coaching program for Professional Brewers focused on practical implementation and long-term results. 00:00 Introduction01:06 Understanding Brewing Education Options & The Need for Skill Advancement03:49 Three Paths to Pro Brewer Mastery08:42 Option 1 – Consultancy: Quick Fixes and Expertise12:27 Option 2 – Formal Education: Structured Learning19:12 Option 3 – Coaching: Personalized Brewing Guidance22:49 How & Why The Rockstar Brewer Academy Was Founded23:42 Benefits of Group Coaching: Community Support and Collaboration25:43 The Three Pillars of A Coaching Program26:16 Implementing Systems and Templates As Opposed To Structured Learning27:26 Commitment and Motivation in Coaching29:46 Real-World Success Stories39:24 Choosing the Right Path for Improvement41:17 Final Thoughts and Next Steps Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running:1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook groupI post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com 2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide 3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse 4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| How This Pro Brewer Won Gold In A Commercial Beer Competition – And You Can Too! | QFPB E016 | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:52:27 | |
In this episode of the Quality Focused Pro Brewers podcast, Hendo from the Rockstar Brewer Academy and Dean from Psycho Suzie’s Brewing dive into judge feedback from a recent commercial beer competition in Brisbane, Australia. They explore how understanding and utilizing feedback can vastly improve beer quality and consistency. They also discuss the importance of entering beer into the correct style categories to maximize scoring potential. Dean shares his journey with Rockstar Brewer Academy, including his motivations and learnings. This episode is crucial for brewers aiming to excel in commercial beer competitions.00:00 Introduction to Commercial Beer Competitions & Meet Dean from Psycho Suzie’s Brewing02:20 Challenges in Beer Consistency and Why He Joined The Rockstar Brewer Academy03:58 Importance of Objective Feedback Over Consumer Feedback06:24 Entering Commercial Beer Competitions08:48 Understanding Beer Judging Criteria16:28 Analyzing Judge Feedback – The Overall Review22:05 Judge Feedback Deep Dive: Australian-style Pale Ale27:17 Judge Feedback Deep Dive: Chilli Pepper Robust Porter28:28 Judge Feedback Deep Dive: Contemporary American-style Light Lager30:09 Reviewing Style Guidelines for American-style Light Lager, Judges’ Feedback and Style Misclassification & Reclassifying the Beer as Kellerbier39:05 Judge Feedback Deep Dive: Warwick Hazy Pale Session Beer42:05 Judge Feedback Deep Dive: New World Lager48:56 Preparing for the Australian International Beer Awards51:18 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsWhenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running:1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook group I post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com 2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide 3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse 4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| How to Build Brewery SOPs That Actually Work. Enhance Safety, Quality & Efficiency NOW! | QFPB E015 | 26 Feb 2025 | 00:43:19 | |
In this episode of Quality-focused Pro Brewers, Hendo and Adsy discuss the importance and challenges of implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in breweries. They explore the pitfalls and best practices of creating, using, and maintaining SOPs, emphasizing their significance for safety, consistency, and quality in brewing operations. The duo also shares insights into structuring SOPs, prioritizing them, and utilizing tools and templates for efficient SOP management. Listeners are encouraged to start breaking down SOP tasks and are offered resources like the SOP Swipe File Library from the Rockstar Brewer Academy Members-only community. 00:00 Introduction to SOPs in Breweries 01:18 Challenges in Implementing SOPs 04:57 The Importance of SOPs for Safety and Consistency 08:18 Real-World Examples and Risks 11:54 An Example of Poor SOP Knowledge Transfer: Making a Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDA3_5982h8 15:10 Steps to Create Effective SOPs 22:37 Diving into SOP Details 23:18 Writing SOPs in a Typical Brewery 25:08 Lessons Learned from Detailed SOPs 26:33 Different Learning Styles and SOPs 27:52 Tools for Creating Effective SOPs 28:14 The Wall of Wisdom: Your Key To Consistency 30:10 Modern Tools for SOP Management 35:56 The Importance of SOPs 37:56 Starting with SOPs in a New Brewery 41:26 Final Thoughts on Brewery SOPs Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running: 1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook groupI post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com 2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide 3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse 4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Beer Recipe Development: Why Your Pilot Batches Don’t Scale Properly – FIX THIS NOW! | QFPB E014 | 12 Feb 2025 | 00:44:55 | |
Scaling Up: From Pilot Brewing to Commercial Success. In this episode of the Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo delves into the intricacies of scaling up beer recipes from pilot brewing to commercial production. Discussing common challenges and solutions, he emphasises the importance of professional approaches, such as documenting detailed processes and maintaining consistent quality. Hendo introduces the concept of a product specification, advocating its use for clear communication and achieving consistent, high-quality results. This episode offers valuable insights for both brewers in the planning stages of opening a brewery and established brewers aiming to maintain consistency in their products. 00:00 Introduction to Scaling Up Brewing & Meet Hendo and Adsy 01:17 Scaling Up: Real-World Issues With Pilot Brewing & Scaling Beer Recipes 04:17 Understanding Equipment Differences 06:15 The Importance of Water Chemistry in Recipe Scaling 07:04 Why Software Tools Like Beersmith, Brewfather and Brewer’s Friend Aren’t Enough 14:37 Creating a Product Specification & Importance of Product Specifications as a Pro Brewer 24:04 Beer Recipe Development and Scaling Up 25:17 True to Brand Descriptions & Why They’re So Important 27:33 Beer Consistency and Customer Loyalty 29:03 Adjusting Product Specifications & Annual Review/Process Tweaks 34:33 About The Rockstar Brewer Academy Program 43:55 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running: 1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook groupI post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com 2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide 3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse 4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Achieving Consistent Brewery Quality: Targets, Tolerances, Accuracy and Precision | QFPB E013 | 29 Jan 2025 | 00:53:38 | |
In this episode of the Quality Focus Pro Brewers podcast, Hendo, a pro brewer coach at the Rockstar Brewer Academy, delves into the essential practices needed for maintaining brewery quality. He emphasizes the importance of setting quality targets and tolerances, ensuring accurate and precise measurements, and having effective standard operating procedures (SOPs). Special attention is given to pH meter calibration and the significance of consistent brewing processes over mere recipe tweaking. The episode also offers insights into creating standard brewery tolerances and the concept of ‘fit for use’ and ‘true to brand’ quality metrics. Brewers are encouraged to document and regularly calibrate their equipment to maintain beer consistency and avoid wasting resources. 00:00 Introduction to Quality Brewing 01:12 Setting Quality Targets & Consistency in Brewing 04:44 Defining Quality Metrics 05:58 Measurement Tools and Challenges 10:14 Regulatory Requirements and Tolerances Around ABV 18:24 Standard Tolerances and Brewery Practices 25:20 On-Spec Brewing and Troubleshooting 28:28 Understanding Accuracy and Precision 29:14 Exact vs. Estimated Measurements 30:34 Types of Errors in Brewing Measurements 31:33 Accuracy vs. Precision Explained & Practical Examples of Accuracy and Precision 37:10 Importance of Calibration Instruments in Brewing & Common Calibration Mistakes 40:38 Proper pH Meter Calibration Techniques 50:26 Setting Quality Standards in Brewing 53:01 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running: 1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook groupI post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com 2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide 3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse 4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration SOCIALS:
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| Pro Brewers’ Guide to Beer Haze: Perfect Hazy or Bright Beer EVERY TIME! | QFPB E012 | 15 Jan 2025 | 00:46:45 | |
In this episode of Quality-focused Pro Brewers, Hendo from Rockstar Brewer Academy discusses the topic of beer haze, including permanent and temporary haze. They explore the causes of chill haze, notably over sparging, and the role of biofine in combating haze. The conversation touches on a notable case of a hazy IPA becoming clear, consumer reactions, and how social media aesthetics influence beer styles. The episode delves into the complexities of achieving and maintaining haze in hazy beers like IPAs and the appropriate use of fining agents such as biofine. The podcast also covers various techniques for controlling haze, including lautering practice, water chemistry, and yeast strain selection, while emphasizing the importance of setting quality targets for beer haze. 00:00 Welcome to the Podcast 00:56 The Importance of Beer Appearance & A Case Study on Hazy IPA 04:33 The Popularity of Hazy Beers 09:15 Causes of Beer Haze 13:49 Permanent vs. Temporary Haze 20:38 Chill Haze and Over Sparging 22:34 Monitoring Lauter and Sparge 24:46 Rockstar Brewer Academy Ad 26:43 Understanding and Controlling Haze in Beer 28:53 Biofine and Other Fining Agents 35:12 Practical Tips for Reducing Haze 39:52 Practical Tips For Enhancing Haze in Beer 43:00 Setting and Troubleshooting Haze Quality Targets 46:12 Final Thoughts and Farewell Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com where you can join our Facebook group, chat with fellow Pro-Brewers in a constructive environment and chat with Hendo & Adsy! Book in a 15 minute “Calibration Call” with Hendo to see if the Rockstar Brewer Academy is a good fit for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| How to Craft a Killer Flagship Lager – Secrets from an Award Winning Head Brewer | QFPB E011 | 01 Jan 2025 | 00:31:26 | |
How to Craft a Killer Flagship Lager – Secrets from an Award Winning Head Brewer In this episode of the Quality-focused Pro Brewers podcast, Hendo discusses the significance of having a stellar lager, or ‘crispy boy’ in your brewery’s core-range beer line up, with special guest Matthew Cuthbert, Award-winning Head Brewer of Revel Brewing Company in Brisbane, Australia. They delve into the challenges and rewards of brewing a simple yet exceptional lager, sharing insights on the brewing process from recipe development to yeast management. Key takeaways include the importance of water chemistry, fermentation temperatures, and common faults like diacetyl and sulfur. Cuthbert emphasizes that mastering a craft lager can win over traditional beer drinkers and become a brewery’s top seller, despite often being seen as a less exciting style to brew. The episode concludes with practical tips for brewers aiming to perfect their flagship lager. 00:00 Introduction to Craft Brewing and Lager 01:04 Meet the Expert: Matthew Cuthbert from Revel Brewing Co 01:39 Matthew’s Brewing History and Experience 04:15 The Importance of Lager in Craft Brewing 09:14 Challenges and Techniques in Brewing Lager 14:08 Water Chemistry and Hops in Lager 17:03 Bittering and Hopping Techniques 17:35 The Role of Yeast in Lager 18:42 Fermentation Temperatures and Techniques 24:06 Common Lager Faults and Solutions 29:14 The Challenge of Brewing a Clean Lager 29:53 Join the Conversation and Learn More Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com where you can join our Facebook group, chat with fellow Pro-Brewers in a constructive environment and chat with Hendo & Adsy! Book in a “Calibration Call” with Hendo to see if the Rockstar Brewer Academy is a good fit for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| The Secret Science Behind PERFECT Beer Foam (Brew Instagram-worthy Beer!) | QFPB E010 | 11 Dec 2024 | 00:43:00 | |
Mastering Beer Foam: The Key to Instagram-Worthy Beer. In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo from the Rockstar Brewer Academy shares invaluable insights into the importance of beer foam. Joined by guest Adsy, they delve into why good foam is essential for the visual appeal of beer, influencing both taste and consumer perception. They discuss the science of foam formation, factors influencing foam stability, foam-positive elements like proteins, alpha acids, and Maillard compounds, as well as foam-negative factors such as fats, detergents, and high alcohol content. The episode also covers practical tips for troubleshooting foam issues, emphasizing the need to start from the service point and work backwards. Ideal for pro brewers looking to enhance their beer’s presentation, making it more appealing and ultimately boosting sales. 00:00 Introduction to Beer Foam, Meet the Hosts & Previous Episode Recap 01:28 The Importance of Beer Foam/Head Retention 02:58 Understanding Beer Foam 04:07 Foam and The Relationship With Beer Carbonation 06:42 The Physics Behind Foam 11:17 Surface Tension and Nucleation 18:11 Beer Foam Chemistry: Foam Positive and Negative Elements 23:19 Why Hendo Doesn’t Use Wheat In a Beer Recipe To Enhance Foam 24:03 Foam Stability in the Mash Process 24:51 Foam Positive Compounds in Beer 27:59 The Impact of Nitrogen on Beer Foam 30:03 Foam Negative Factors: What to Avoid 35:59 Troubleshooting Foam Issues: Practical Tips 39:16 Final Thoughts and Resources for Brewers Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com where you can join our Facebook group, chat with fellow Pro-Brewers in a constructive environment and chat with Hendo & Adsy! Get My Free Guide – “The Pro Brewer Quality Checklist: The 5 Step Blueprint That Will Help You Brew World Class Beer….Fast!” – https://bit.ly/3f6ryQB SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! | |||
| Why Spreadsheets & Paper Logs Are KILLING Your Brewery’s Quality & Efficiency! (Upgrade Now) | QFPB E009 | 27 Nov 2024 | 00:35:53 | |
In this episode of the Quality-focused Pro Brewers podcast, Hendo talks with Lindsy Greig from The Fifth Ingredient/Beer30 about the importance of data management in brewing. They discuss the limitations of paper logs and spreadsheets for breweries, the benefits of using brewery management software like Beer30, and how it can improve beer quality, efficiency, and cost tracking. Lindsy shares her journey from a failed actor to a brewery expert, emphasizing the need for breweries to adapt modern data collection methods. They also highlight the scalability of such software, suitable for breweries of all sizes and its role in shaping a data-conscious culture within the team. 0:00 Introduction – The episode kicks off with a discussion about the challenges of using outdated tools like paper logs, spreadsheets, and whiteboards in brewing operations. 2:15 The Problem with Paper Logs – Real-world examples of why paper logs can be unreliable, including lost records, difficulty sharing data, and the extra time they require. 6:30 Spreadsheet Shortcomings – A breakdown of how spreadsheets, while better than paper, still fall short for managing the complexity of brewery operations. 10:45 Why Whiteboards Aren’t Enough – Insights into how whiteboards limit production planning and why they become impractical as breweries scale up. 14:10 Introducing Brewery Management Systems – An overview of what brewery management systems are and how they transform operations by solving common problems with manual methods. 18:00 Benefits of Brewery Management Systems – Compelling reasons to switch, including streamlined processes, real-time updates, and better scalability for breweries. 22:20 Case Studies: Breweries that Made the Switch – Inspiring success stories from breweries that adopted management systems and saw significant improvements in efficiency and organization. 26:50 Overcoming Resistance to Change – Tips on how to approach team buy-in and make the transition to a new system smoother for everyone. 30:00 How to Choose the Right System – Practical advice on evaluating different brewery management systems and what features to prioritize. 34:15 Call to Action – Wrapping up with an encouragement to reflect on your current methods and explore how upgrading to a brewery management system could improve your brewery’s operations. Full disclosure – Hendo is a brand ambassador for Beer30 in Australia. If you’d like to arrange a demo with the Beer30 team to see if it’s right for you, head over to https://rockstarbrewer.com/beer30 Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com where you can join our Facebook group, chat with fellow Pro-Brewers in a constructive environment and chat with Hendo & Adsy! Get My Free Guide – “The Pro Brewer Quality Checklist: The 5 Step Blueprint That Will Help You Brew World Class Beer….Fast!” – https://bit.ly/3f6ryQB SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may | |||
| Dissolved Oxygen In Beer: Just 50 Parts Per BILLION Can RUIN Your Batch! | QFPB E008 | 13 Nov 2024 | 00:45:26 | |
In this episode of the Quality Focused Pro Brewers Podcast, Hendo and Adsy tackle a brewing issue that often gets overlooked but can make or break beer quality: dissolved oxygen (DO). They explore why DO management is essential for maintaining hop aroma, preventing off-flavors, and ensuring shelf stability, especially in delicate beer styles like IPAs and NEPAs. From understanding the intricacies of DO measurements to preventing oxygen ingress during production, Hendo and Adsy provide actionable tips on managing DO effectively in any brewery setup. Listeners will also gain insights into the cumulative impact of DO across different stages of beer production, and why small details—like purging hoses and valves—matter in the pursuit of quality. Whether you’re just starting in a professional brewery or looking to improve DO control in your setup, this episode is packed with essential tips for consistent, high-quality results. What You’ll Learn:
Resources Mentioned:
Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Introduction to DO issues in brewing, particularly in IPAs and hazy beers 00:00:35 – Hendo returns from Japan and introduces the episode with Adsy 00:04:09 – Topic introduction: Dissolved Oxygen (DO) and its role in brewing 00:05:00 – The effects of DO on hop aroma and flavor; identifying DO issues vs. dry hop issues 00:07:09 – How DO leads to diacetyl formation and discoloration in beer 00:10:00 – Examples of visual signs of oxidation in beer during judging 00:11:09 – DO measurement challenges and the high cost of low-range DO meters 00:14:09 – The cumulative effect of DO ingress across production stages 00:16:16 – Why breweries need their own DO meters; challenges with outsourcing DO testing 00:21:00 – Target DO levels in brewing: why less than 50 ppb is ideal for hoppy beer styles 00:25:00 – Preventing DO ingress during cooling, transfer, and packaging 00:29:24 – “Think small, act big” approach to preventing DO ingress in the brewery 00:32:03 – Real-world examples of DO-related issues and troubleshooting 00:34:48 – Best practices for minimizing DO ingress: purging with CO₂, nitrogen, or deaerated water 00:42:09 – Modern hop extracts and terpenes: do they interact with DO differently? 00:43:09 – How to recognize when it’s time for a DO meter and why it’s a valuable investment Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com | |||
| Brewing Water Chemistry DEMYSTIFIED! | QFPB E007 | 30 Oct 2024 | 00:42:18 | |
In this episode of the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast, Hendo from Rockstar Brewer Academy and Adsy delve into the crucial yet often overlooked aspect of brewing – water chemistry. They aim to demystify how water, which constitutes 95% of beer, influences beer flavor and quality. The discussion highlights common mistakes brewers make by focusing too much on malt, hops, and yeast while neglecting water. Key challenges such as setting clear water chemistry objectives, understanding water’s role in beer’s flavor profile, and the limitations of relying on algorithms for water adjustments are explored. They advise brewers to prioritize beer pH, sulfate to chloride ratio, and calcium concentration over historical water profiles. Practical tips include getting water tested, proper use of brewing salts, and the importance of managing pH through all brewing stages. The insights aim to empower brewers to improve beer quality significantly by mastering water chemistry. 00:00 Introduction to Brewing Water Chemistry 00:53 The Importance of Water in Brewing 03:33 Challenges and Common Mistakes in Brewing Water Chemistry 06:14 Understanding Water Profiles and Why Relying on the Beersmith, Brew Father or Brewer’s Friend Algorithm Is Bullsh*t 08:14 Historical Water Profiles: Myths and Realities 13:25 The Importance of Testing Your Water at a reputable Lab 17:18 The 3 Key “Flavour Numbers” in Brewing Water Chemistry 20:42 Understanding Calcium in Beer 21:37 The Impact of Beer Color on pH in Brewing 22:32 Adjusting pH with Malts 25:07 The Role of pH in Beer Flavor 26:09 Using Bru’n Water Spreadsheet 12:05 Controlling Beer pH During Brewing 32:00 Tips for Managing Beer pH 34:25 Avoiding Common pH Mistakes 39:04 Final Thoughts on Water Chemistry Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com where you can join our Facebook group, chat with fellow Pro-Brewers in a constructive environment and chat with Hendo & Adsy! Get My Free Guide – “The Pro Brewer Quality Checklist: The 5 Step Blueprint That Will Help You Brew World Class Beer….Fast!” – https://bit.ly/3f6ryQB SOCIALS:
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| CIP Secrets Every Brewery Needs (This One Mistake Could RUIN Your Equipment!) | QFPB E006 | 16 Oct 2024 | 00:56:49 | |
Brewery CIP and Cleaning Essentials with Kyle Smith In this episode of the Quality-focused Pro Brewers podcast, Hendo interviews Kyle Smith from Gorman Smith about Brewery CIP (Clean-In-Place) systems and practices. They discuss the importance of cleaning and sanitizing processes, the differentiation between the two, and share insights on effective cleaning techniques. Hendo and Kyle delve into the role of chemical agents like caustic soda, peracetic acid, and their appropriate use. They also cover the potential dangers of incorrectly managing CO2 levels during cleaning and the implications of equipment passivation. Additionally, they highlight crucial safety practices, including the use of PPE, validating chemical concentrations, and ensuring equipment like spray balls and pumps are appropriately sized for their tasks. The episode provides practical advice for both new and experienced brewers to optimize their cleaning processes and maintain high-quality beer production. 00:00 Introduction to Brewery CIP 00:45 Meet the Guest: Kyle Smith 02:32 The Difference Between Cleaning and Sanitizing 04:28 Kyle’s Background and Experience 05:33 Common CIP Challenges in Breweries 10:24 The Variables That Affect CIP in the Brewery 21:00 The Science Behind Effective Cleaning 30:42 Methods to Verify CIP Including Using An ATP Meter 34:11 Understanding Stainless Steel Tank Passivation 42:00 The Importance of Proper Tank Maintenance 42:53 CO2 and Sodium Hydroxide Safety – Don’t Implode Your Tank! 47:50 Top Five CIP Tips 56:32 Conclusion and Community Invitation Kyle’s Quick Guide on CIP Basics – https://www.gormansmith.com/blogs/news/how-to-perform-clean-in-place-cip-in-a-brewery-a-quick-guide This episode is not sponsored by Gorman Smith but if you need stainless steel parts for your brewery, Kyle is a legend and is your man! Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com where you can join our Facebook group, chat with fellow Pro-Brewers in a constructive environment and chat with Hendo & Adsy! Get My Free Guide – “The Pro Brewer Quality Checklist: The 5 Step Blueprint That Will Help You Brew World Class Beer….Fast!” – https://bit.ly/3f6ryQB SOCIALS:
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| Brewing Success: Why Process Matters More Than Your Beer Recipe | QFPB E005 | 02 Oct 2024 | 00:32:31 | |
In this episode of the Quality Focused Pro Brewers Podcast, Hendo and Adsy dive deep into a critical aspect of brewing that many professional brewers overlook: defining beer quality. They discuss the two lenses of beer quality—Fit for Use and True to Brand—and explain why tweaking recipes won’t deliver the consistency brewers crave. Instead, they show how focusing on process improvement and clear quality definitions can elevate your beer to the next level. Hendo and Adsy share real-world examples of how brewers get stuck in the “black box” of wort production, and offer actionable steps to break out of it by focusing on the cold side of brewing and standardizing key phases in production. Whether you’re dealing with diacetyl issues or struggling with head retention, this episode will guide you on how to diagnose problems, refine your process, and create consistently high-quality beer. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings & Exciting Plans for Japan01:40 Defining Beer Quality03:31 Common Problems in Beer Quality06:39 The Importance of Process Over Recipe09:19 Defining Beer Quality In Terms Of “Fit for Use” and “True to Brand”13:37 Creating a Product Specification19:23 Continuous Improvement and Troubleshooting29:10 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsWhat You’ll Learn:
Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com where you can join our Facebook group, chat with fellow Pro-Brewers in a constructive environment and chat with Hendo & Adsy! Get My Free Guide – “The Pro Brewer Quality Checklist: The 5 Step Blueprint That Will Help You Brew World Class Beer….Fast!” – https://bit.ly/3f6ryQB SOCIALS:
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| Maximizing Brewhouse Efficiency: Tips and Techniques for Pro Brewers To Get Yours To a Consistent 90% | QFPB E004 | 19 Sep 2024 | 00:36:58 | |
Maximizing Brewhouse Efficiency: Tips and Techniques for Pro Brewers In this episode of the Quality Focused Pro Brewers Podcast, hosts Hendo from Rockstar Brewery Academy and Adsy discuss the critical importance of achieving a consistent 90% brewhouse efficiency in a commercial brewery. They delve into the significance of monitoring the mill gap, calculating brewhouse efficiency, and differentiating it from mash efficiency. The hosts explain the factors that influence brewhouse efficiency, such as mash temperature, liquor-to-grist ratio, and lautering techniques. They also highlight the importance of regular mill gap checks, adjusting for different malt types, and proper use of grain sieves. Concluding with actionable steps, they encourage brewers to baseline their current brewhouse efficiency and work towards optimization. The episode emphasizes the financial and quality benefits of maintaining high brewhouse efficiency in today’s challenging economic climate. 00:00 Introduction to Brewhouse Efficiency01:28 The Importance of Efficiency in Brewing – Being “Artisinal” Does Not Mean You Need To Be Inefficient02:46 Understanding Brewhouse vs. Mash Efficiency06:22 Factors Affecting Brewhouse Efficiency16:17 Maximizing Efficiency: Practical Tips18:35 Mash Temperature and Brewhouse Efficiency19:02 Liquor to Grist Ratio Explained20:23 Lautering Techniques and Tips21:49 Grain Crush and Permeability23:04 Grist Analysis and Mill Gap Settings29:31 Calculating Brewhouse Efficiency36:02 Final Tips and Community Resources The formulae for Brewhouse for Brewhouse Efficiency% are: Brewhouse Efficiency% = TE / TPE Calculating Total Extract aka TE: TE For Plato/BBL/lb brewers: TE = (((259+G)*G)/100)*WV TE for SG/L/kg brewers: TE = G * WV Where:
Calculating Total Potential Extract aka TPE: Plato/BBL/lb brewers: TPE = SUM((WM1 * CG1)+(WM2 * CG2)+(WM3 * CG3) …. Etc) SG/L/kg brewers: TPE = SUM((WM1 * CG1)+(WM2 * CG2)+(WM3 * CG3) …. Etc) * 384 Where:
Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com where you can join our Facebook group, chat with fellow Pro-Brewers in a constructive environment and chat with Hendo & Adsy! Get My Free Guide – “The Pro Brewer Quality Checklist: The 5 Step Blueprint That Will Help You Brew World Class Beer….Fast!” – https://bit.ly/3f6ryQB SOCIALS:
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