Retour

Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The True Craft Podcast

Plongez dans la liste complète des épisodes de The True Craft Podcast. Chaque épisode est catalogué accompagné de descriptions détaillées, ce qui facilite la recherche et l'exploration de sujets spécifiques. Suivez tous les épisodes de votre podcast préféré et ne manquez aucun contenu pertinent.

Rows per page:

1–50 of 94

TitreDateDurée
E93: Straight Shooting with Michael Memsic of Sanitas Brewing Company06 Sep 202400:36:07

On today’s episode of The True Craft Podcast, we’re catching up with Michael Memsic, Co-Founder & CEO of Sanitas Brewing, to give some straight talk about what the heck is happening in craft. We cover a lot of ground from modern expansion strategies, owner and leadership alignment, and the surprising topic of...tapping out of the craft scene?

Highlights include:

  • How breweries are becoming vibrant community hubs with unique food and morning coffee, becoming the ultimate “third place”
  • The evolving craft beer scene and why the next big wave might not hinge on Gen Z
  • Unique opportunities popping up as breweries close their doors

Michael believes that the craft industry is deeply “lifestyle driven,” which makes it both rewarding and challenging. However, fostering connections and sharing experiences with those in your circle makes all the difference. That’s exactly what we’re all about on The True Craft Podcast. Enjoy this insightful chat!

Links
Sanitas Brewing Company Website
Sanitas Brewing Company Instagram

Book a discovery call
Subscribe for more insights

E92: Brewery Success in the Modern Market with Mike Walters of Cocoon Brewing23 Aug 202400:36:03

In this episode of The True Craft Podcast, we’re hanging out with Mike Walters, Co-Founder of Cocoon Brewing out of De Pere, WI. In 2023, at a time when craft beer was anything but predictable, Cocoon Brewing boldly opened their 7,000 sq ft space—proving that when the going gets tough, the tough get brewing.

Highlights include:

  1. How to dish out a killer food program from a cozy 400 sq ft kitchen (yes, size matters... but not in the way you think).
  2. Juggling the "trifecta" of private events, brewery-hosted bashes, and weekly programming like a pro.
  3. How diversifying with draft, to-go beer, and merch sales keeps the cash flowing and customers coming back.

Opening a brewery takes a village, but doing it in 2023? That requires a whole city of support. Mike spills all the tea (or beer) on Cocoon Brewing's wild ride, packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

Cocoon Brewing Website
Cocoon Brewing Instagram

Subscribe for more insight
Book a discovery call

E83: Elevate Your Taproom Experience with Andrew Coplon of CBP and Secret Hopper12 Apr 202400:44:16

In this episode of The True Craft Podcast, we welcome Andrew Coplon, Founder of Craft Beer Professionals and Secret Hopper to explore his unique insights on curating a fantastic customer experience in the taproom... and why that’s more important than ever.

Just a few of the topics we cover:

  • How to create what Andrew calls a “Wow! Experience” using his Taproom Venn Diagram: beer, memorable atmosphere, and engaging staff.
  • Andrew’s take on the current epidemic of taproom staffing issues, and how to tap into the personalized motivations of each of your staff members through rewards, recognition, and opportunities.
  • Why tabs are 30% higher in environments your customers perceive as “high engagement” and how to create high engagement through goal setting and tracking, training time-on-calendar, and most importantly, consistency.

At one point in the episode, Andrew claims “taproom” is his middle name, and it shows. He’s a wealth of knowledge with direct, on-the-ground experience and offers a perspective you won’t want to miss.

 

Links:

Craft Beer Professionals - Website

Secret Hopper - Website

Venn Diagram of Taproom Experience

 

Book a Discovery Call

Subscribe for more insight

E82: Collaboration in Craft with Dave Morgan of Single Speed Brewing29 Mar 202400:37:12

On today’s episode of The True Craft Podcast, Chris sits down with Dave Morgan, co-founder of Single Speed Brewing, to dig into their Parallel Brewery Collective concept.

Highlighting the collective's ability to combine efforts and share resources, Dave unveils how thinking creatively about breweries can collaborate can unlock hidden opportunities for reducing expenses and maximizing distribution opportunities.

Can this strategy reshape how independent breweries pursue wholesale growth in our industry? Listen and let us know what you think.

 

Links:

Parallel Brewery Collective - Website

Single Speed Brewing - Website

Single Speed Brewing - Instagram

 

Dave’s Contact:

dave@singlespeedbrewing.com

 

Book a Discovery Call

Subscribe for more insight

E81: Building A Niche Brewery with Nick and Christina Lumsden of Dogleg Brewing Company15 Mar 202400:38:25

In this episode of The True Craft Podcast, we delve into niche branding and marketing strategies with Nick and Christina Lumsden, the innovative minds behind Dogleg Brewing. With a passion for both golf and beer, they've seamlessly merged their passions to create a distinctive brand and customer experience that has greatly benefitted their business.

Main takeaway: It is essential to not only identify your ‘niche’ but cultivate a lasting community. From leveraging distribution initiatives to multi-channel marketing efforts, Nick and Christina share actionable insights on how to authentically connect with your target audience and foster lasting relationships.
 

Links:

Dogleg Brewing Company - Website

Dogleg Brewing Company - Instagram

Dogleg Brewing Company - Facebook  

 

Nick and Christina’s Contact Info:

nick@doglegbrewingco.com

christina@doglegbrewingco.com
 

Book a Discovery Call

Subscribe for more insight

E80: How To Market Your Beer with Julie Rhodes of Not Your Hobby Marketing01 Mar 202400:47:10

Julie Rhodes of Not Your Hobby Marketing Solutions joins us on today’s episode of the True Craft Podcast to share some of her hard-won, craft-specific marketing advice to help you sell more beer, including:

  • Which marketing strategies are most effective for wholesale vs. taproom 
  • How to leverage local influencers to market your beer to your target demographic
  • How to measure the results of your marketing campaigns so you know what’s working and what’s not

Whether you’ve been marketing for years or have no idea where to begin, Julie provides industry-specific clarity on what to do and why.
 

Links:

Not Your Hobby Marketing Solutions - Website

Not Your Hobby Marketing Solutions - LinkedIn

Not Your Hobby Marketing Solutions - Instagram  

 

Julie’s Contact:

julie@notyourhobbymarketing.com
 

Book a Discovery Call

Subscribe for more insight







 

E79: Kitchen Keys For Success with Gabrielle Blanco of Buckstin Brewing Company23 Feb 202400:43:28

Gabrielle Blanco, Owner of Buckstin Brewing, joined us for this killer episode of The True Craft Podcast. With a long history in the restaurant industry and a booming brewery (that’s currently expanding), Gabi advocates for why all breweries should operate their own kitchens. 

By keeping it simple and having systems in place, every brewery can operate a profitable kitchen. And no excuses on size — Buckstin’s kitchen is a whopping 128 square feet.

First steps, helpful tips, real-life examples, and key systems — all this and more on today’s episode.

Links:

Buckstin Brewing - Website
Buckstin Brewing - Instagram
Buckstin Brewing - Facebook

Gabrielle’s Contact:

gab@buckstinbrewing.com

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E78: Curating a Foolproof Food Program with Michelle Tressler of Hinterland Brewery and Restaurant26 Jan 202400:50:29

We are thrilled to welcome Michelle Tressler of Hinterland Brewery and Restaurant on today’s episode of The True Craft Podcast!

With nearly three decades of experience, Michelle sheds light on the immense value that a solid food program can have on your brewery’s long term success. Food has the ability to carry your brewery through downturns, which Michelle has experienced firsthand. 

Be bold. Push the envelope on flavor. Don’t settle for frozen pizzas or basic pub fare.

And remember: Everybody has to eat, but no one has to drink.

Links:

Hinterland Brewery and Restaurant - Website
Hinterland Beer - Instagram
Hinterland Brewery - Facebook

Michelle’s Contact:

michelle@hinterlandbeer.com

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E77: Navigating “Beer Guns” and the Next Gen with Richard Fennell of C&G Brewing19 Jan 202400:46:23

On today’s episode of The True Craft Podcast, no stone is left unturned. Katy and Chris welcome Richard Fennell of C&G Brewing out of Dallas, TX.

From managing thirty-six “beer gun” taps to navigating Texas beer laws, this episode takes a look at a wide variety of topics. We even discuss strategic ways to maximize margins in distribution and ask a very timely question: “Has craft left the next generation behind?”

Links:

C&G Brewing - Website
C&G Brewing - Facebook

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E76: A Deep Dive on Cider with Adam Ruhland of Wild State Cider12 Jan 202400:29:11

Join Katy Noel and Chris Farmand for a very special episode of The True Craft Podcast. In this week’s episode, we welcome Adam Ruhland of Wild State Cider to dive into the dynamic world of cider. 

We explore trends shaping the craft market, address the unique profile of cider drinkers, unpack how to form a portfolio, and compare beer vs. cider regulations. 

In the end, we conclude that cider has a) less regulations than beer and b) far less competition than craft beer. But what does that mean for the craft industry? I invite you to listen to learn more.

Links:

Wild State Cider - Website
Wild State Cider - Instagram
Wild State Cider - Facebook

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E75: A Revolution of Upcycling with Russell Heissner of Barrel House Z05 Jan 202400:31:09

We are thrilled to kick off the new year by welcoming Russell Heissner of Barrel House Z onto The True Craft Podcast!

Russ is truly a wealth of knowledge in brewing sustainability. Having developed technology to upcycle spent grain, breweries can reduce waste hauling costs, make more beer from existing inputs, reduce their environmental impact, and tell a sustainability story. 

Will this be the next revolution in craft beer? Listen now and let us know what you think.

Links:

Zenso Labs - Website
Zenso Labs - Instagram

Barrel House Z - Website
Barrel House Z - Instagram
Barrel House Z - Facebook

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E74: Shaking Up Your Strategy with Zack O’Connor of Fort George Brewery29 Dec 202300:45:56

We are thrilled to welcome Zack O’Connor, Senior Vice President of Fort George Brewing Company onto the True Craft Podcast this week. 

Strategic planning has often been treated as a once-a-year check box on a to-do list, but what if there’s a better, significantly more impactful way? Zack sheds valuable insight into his collaborative approach, always-evolving process, and growth mindset around strategic planning.

There’s something about the pairing of resilience and humility that really does it for us over here at SBS — and this episode hits hard.

Links:

Fort George Brewery - Website
Fort George Brewery - Instagram
Fort George Brewery - Facebook

Zack’s Reading Recommendations:
Great by Choice by Jim Collins
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E91: A Mead-y Episode with Austin Corrigan of High Seas Mead09 Aug 202400:45:58

On this episode of The True Craft Podcast, we have a chat with Austin Corrigan, the founder of High Seas Mead and Single Fin Cider out of Santa Barbara, CA. Austin shares his fascinating journey from the culinary world to fermenting meads and ciders as a one-man operation.

In this episode, we chat about:

  • The challenge (and reward!) of being 100% self-distributed within a 100-mile radius, managing over 300 accounts
  • The unique journey of Austin and his wife, who handle every aspect of production, distribution, and sales, setting their operation apart
  • The booming growth and modern interpretations of the mead and cider categories, and the opportunities they present for brewers in their taprooms

With a dedication to natural production methods and a hands-on approach to every aspect of his business, Austin brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective. Don't miss this episode if you're looking to learn more about mead and cider, as well as a taking a glimpse into its bright future as a craft beverage of choice!

Links

High Seas Mead Website
High Seas Mead Instagram
Single Fin Instagram

Subscribe for more insights
Book a discovery call

E73: SBS: A Year in Review with Chris Farmand & Katy Noel22 Dec 202300:32:37

In a special iteration of The True Craft Podcast, Katy interviews Chris on his reflections of the various investments made at Small Batch Standard in 2023.

Get a glimpse at the inner workings of SBS, including how we’ve built out our team this year and the impact that’s had on client services. Learn about how our benchmarking software, Compass, has completely been rebuilt and what we’re projecting for SBS and our clients in 2024.

Links:

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E72: Mastering Sourdough and Market Strategy with Philip Maple of Barley & Pie Brewing Company15 Dec 202300:31:18

Today on The True Craft Podcast, Chris and Katy welcome Philip Maple from Barley & Pie Brewing Company. Join us as we explore Philip's sourdough journey including the trials and triumphs of mastering the craft.

What forethought and strategies are essential to success when opening breweries in today’s market? What value does having a niche add to your business plan? Does pairing passions make your model stronger?

All this and more on today’s episode.

Links:

Barley & Pie - Website
Barley & Pie - Instagram
Barley & Pie - Facebook

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E71: Regionalization in Craft with Colin Spoelman of Kings County Distillery08 Dec 202300:37:52

While we’re often discussing beer, there is another whole side to craft: spirits. How do buying behaviors differ between beer and spirits consumers? What can we learn about each segment of this industry through the lens of the other?

Join Katy, Chris, and Colin Spoelman of Kings County Distillery this week on the True Craft Podcast as they dive into regionalization, industry trends for spirits vs. beer, and what seems to be on the horizon for both.

Links:

Kings County Distillery - Website
Kings County Distillery - Instagram

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E70: Minuscule Margins with Katy Noel and Chris Farmand01 Dec 202300:21:44

It’s no secret: We both know you’re likely not raking in cash from the wholesale side of your business. Join Chris and Katy on this week’s episode of the True Craft Podcast to get a peek at an internal conversation we’re having all the time. 

What do we uncover when we split your brewery out by business units? Here’s a hint: there’s no room for error. Regardless of how well you’ve dialed in wholesale, it can only be so profitable. Where does that leave us?

Listen now to get an inside look at how Small Batch Standard views wholesale and what we’re encouraging brewery owners to do to stay afloat in this era of craft.

Links:

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E69: The Essentiality of Experience with Mark Bjornstad of Drekker Brewing24 Nov 202300:29:31

It isn’t as simple as it used to be, is it? Good liquid alone just doesn’t cut it anymore. 

This week on The True Craft Podcast, Chris and Katy are joined by Mark Bjornstad from Drekker Brewing to discuss the role of alternate revenue streams in the brewing space. Mark comes from a unique perspective of also owning and operating Brewhalla, a beer-themed boutique hotel that sits on top of Drekker Brewing.

There’s something to be said for cultivating a new kind of customer experience — and in this climate, brewery owners would be wise to do the same.

Links:

Drekker Brewing - Website
Drekker Brewing - Instagram

Brewhalla - Website
Brewhalla - Instagram

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E68: The Portfolio Puzzle with Ben Hugus of Ursa Minor Brewing17 Nov 202300:51:45

All aboard the THC train? Where does NA fit into our business model? How do we create a thriving portfolio that kills it in distro? How do we stay relevant without exhausting our resources and losing focus?

As we all know, many breweries out there started as passion projects. But none of the successful ones stayed that way. Though there are a million perilous turns a brewery owner can take, one thing is for sure: Brewery health necessitates a willingness to be adaptable.

Join Katy, Chris, and Ben Hugus from Ursa Minor Brewing out of Duluth, MN as they dive into the facets of brewery health. It’s important to keep a pulse on industry trends; however, it is essential to not get sucked into them either. 

Links:
Ursa Minor Brewing - Website
Ursa Minor Brewing - Facebook
Ursa Minor Brewing - Instagram   

Ben’s contact:
ben@ursaminorbrewing.com

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E67: Industry Maturation & The Innovation Dilemma with Joel McClosky of Four Saints Brewing10 Nov 202300:42:48

There are two indicators that an industry has matured: a lack of growth and a lack of innovation.

The craft beer Age of Exploration throughout the 2010s led to questions like, “What could beer be?” which brought about nontraditional beer concoctions that intrigued consumers. But now we are experiencing a shift in consumer behavior and what was once seen as innovative is now met with a desire for just solid, great-tasting classics.

How do you walk the line of innovating enough… but not overextending your business? How are style cycles influencing craft? And what impacts occur to the industry as younger generations come of drinking age?

Chris and Katy welcome Joel McClosky of Four Saints Brewing onto The True Craft Podcast to discuss all this and more on today’s episode.

Links:

Four Saints Brewing - Website
Four Saints Brewing - Instagram
Four Saints Brewing - TikTok
Four Saints Brewing - Facebook

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E66: Hiring, Humble Pie, & AI with the Co-Founders of Fernson Brewing Company03 Nov 202300:40:29

No matter how you slice it, ownership needs to carry some measure of accountability when it comes to staff turnover and creating a positive culture. 

Chris and Katy welcome Co-Founders and Co-CEOs, Derek Fernholz and Blake Thompson, from Fernson Brewing Company to this episode of The True Craft Podcast to discuss the ins and outs of hiring practices within a brewery.

Getting this piece right or wrong can make or break your entire operation. We discuss culture’s impact on retention, how to stop losing sleep over the food side of your business, and ask where AI fits into the hiring process for brewery owners.

Links:

Fernson Brewing Company - Website
Fernson Brewing Company - Instagram

AI To-Do List Resource:
goblin.tools

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E65: Surviving Craft with Michael Memsic from Sanitas Brewing Co27 Oct 202300:49:30

It’s scary to be honest with yourself. (Happy Halloween, anyone?) But it’s impossible to be successful while living in a false reality.

We are pleased to welcome back a True Craft Podcast veteran in this week’s episode: Michael Memsic from Sanitas Brewing. Chris, Katy, and Michael dive into a myriad of topics such as:

  • White space beers’ place in an IPA world
  • The nature of trends in the craft beer industry
  • How intimidating — and important — it is for brewery owners to network with each other
  • The danger of being over-emotional about your liquid

Join us for a refreshingly candid conversation about the state of craft beer in 2023.

Links:

Sanitas Brewing Co - Website
Sanitas Brewing Co - Instagram

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E64: The Relationship ROI with Pearce Fleming from Commonhouse Aleworks20 Oct 202300:36:07

Community goes beyond patron services: We’re talking wholesalers, retailers, local organization leaders, and employees. And when it comes to return on investment, it’s hard to find something that can be more lucrative than authentic relationship building.

Chris and Katy are joined on this episode of The True Craft Podcast by Pearce Fleming from Commonhouse Aleworks to discuss the specifics of fostering a brewery’s community (and it’s not just trivia night on Wednesdays).

We chat about:

  • The recently passed economic development bill in South Carolina, allowing breweries to sell more to-go beer (including a sixtel!)
  • Being “all in” with relationships: Whether wholesalers, local impact organizations, or customers; this mindset fosters community and ultimately leads to huge ROI
  • Open-book management and inspiring the brewery team to do their best work while creating an environment where employees can show up fully as themselves

Links:

Commonhouse Aleworks - Website
Commonhouse Aleworks - Instagram

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E90: Legendary Lagers and Expansion with Ryan Wibby of Wibby Brewing26 Jul 202400:37:20

On this episode of The True Craft Podcast, we sit down with Ryan Wibby, the co-founder and brewmaster of Wibby Brewing in Longmont, CO. Ryan chats the exciting world of lagers, sharing the story behind his brewery’s recent recognition as 2023 GABF Brewery of the Year, and giving us a peek into their distribution expansion plans.

In this episode, we chat about:

  • The massive impact that can come with focusing on a single style without ever compromising quality
  • How winning the 2023 Great American Beer Festival Brewery of the Year is opening doors and what other brewers can learn from this success
  • Wibby Brewing’s unique distribution strategy, expanding into “beer deserts” and potentially exploring untapped Asian markets

With more than a decade of brewing expertise, Ryan brings a treasure trove of knowledge and a fresh outlook. Tune in for a vibrant conversation brimming with lager love, ambitious expansion plans, and the innovative spirit that sets Wibby Brewing apart.

 

Links

Wibby Brewing

Subscribe for more insight
Book a discovery call

E63: The Revenue in Risk-Taking with Sam Kazmer from Elsewhere Brewing13 Oct 202300:41:32

There is a nuanced game of risk-taking that all business owners must play in order to succeed; however, while there is no profit without risk, risk does not guarantee a profitable business.

Chris and Katy are joined on this episode of The True Craft Podcast by Sam Kazmer from Elsewhere Brewing to discuss the role of risk in running a successful business. 

Today we cover:

  • The “spidey-sense that makes or breaks entrepreneurs”
  • Uncovering novel ways to increase revenue in the brewing industry
  • How mushrooms could be the next big thing in brewing sustainability
  • What it actually looks like to open another location in 2023

Links:

Elsewhere Brewing - Website
Elsewhere Brewing - Instagram
Elsewhere Brewing - Instagram (Greenhouse Taproom)
Elsewhere Adventure Club - Instagram

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E62: The Raw Truth Behind Entrepreneurship with Chris Farmand and Katy Noel06 Oct 202300:35:14

In today’s episode of The True Craft Podcast, Chris and Katy have a candid discussion about the impact of entrepreneurship on business owners and their families. 

Katy and Chris address tough questions through lenses of both coming from families of entrepreneurs. What effect does this lifestyle really have on your family? How and when do you start delegating? What does it actually look like to healthily run a business?

Strap in for this one, it’s going to be killer.

Links:

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

Note: If this episode strikes a cord with you and you want to continue this conversation in another episode, please reach out to Katy at katy@sbstandard.com

.

E61: The Power of B Corps with Terry Horner from Liability Brewing29 Sep 202300:28:56

On this episode of The True Craft Podcast, Chris and Katy are joined by Terry Horner, Owner of Liability Brewing in Greenville, South Carolina. They dive deep into the world of B Corps — and Terry shifts Chris’s entire mindset on this topic. 

We explore the vast benefits taking this path can have on your business and community, unpack what it really looks like to get certified, and weigh the value-adds vs. challenges of becoming a B Corp. 

Links:
Liability Brewing - Website
Liability Brewing - Instagram
Liability Brewing’s 2022 Public Benefit Report

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

E60: WTH is Happening in Distribution with Adam Robbings from Reuben’s Brews22 Sep 202300:44:03

In this episode, Katy and Chris are joined by a True Craft Podcast veteran, Adam Robbings of Reuben’s Brews. We catch up with Adam to discuss what he is seeing as a Pacific Northwest craft leader in both the taproom and distribution.

In particular, we discuss:

  • What the heck is happening with distribution? Is draft really losing the game?
  • How pricing and inflation are impacting both breweries and consumers.
  • Predictions for 2024 and how craft beer can still find its way despite the changes in the industry. (Hint: Rock solid finances are non-negotiable).

Links:

Reuben’s Brews - Website
Reuben’s Brews - Instagram
The Taster Tray

Contact Adam:
adam@reubensbrews.com

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

S5E3 Culture Killers vs. Self-Aware Leaders with Greg Parker from Iron Horse Brewery15 Sep 202300:39:18

In this episode of The True Craft Podcast, Katy and Chris welcome Greg Parker from Iron Horse Brewery to challenge the mainstream understanding of brewery team organization.

At the end of the day, every person on your team is just that… a person. How are you as a leader facilitating the health and growth of your team? 

Join as we discuss why self-awareness in leadership is critical, the most common ways brewery owners waste their time, and how not to kill your culture.

Links:

Iron Horse Brewery - Website
Iron Horse Brewery - Instagram

Greg’s email:
greg@ironhorsebrewery.com

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

S5E2 The Blunt Realities of Contract Brewing with Zak Koga from Karben4 Brewing08 Sep 202300:51:44

In this episode, Chris and Katy sit down with Zak Koga from Karben4 Brewing out of Madison, WI to explore the blunt realities of contract brewing in the craft beer industry. 

Are the headwinds in craft at least in part a product of a mature industry? Could Canabev just maybe be the answer to our capacity issues? How can breweries adapt with the use of contract brewing?

All this and more in this episode of The True Craft Podcast.

Links:
Karben4 Brewing - Website
Karben4 Brewing - Instagram
Karben4 Brewing - Facebook

For inquiries about contract brewing:

Zak’s email: zak@karben4.com

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insight

S5E1 The Journey of Craft with Bill Tressler from Hinterland Brewery01 Sep 202300:38:42

We’re back with Season 5 of The True Craft Podcast!

Join co-hosts Chris Farmand and Katy Noel as they dive into a new era of conversations with brewery owners and operators. Chris and Katy discuss the vision for season five and kickoff with our first guest, Bill Tressler, CEO and Co-Founder of Hinterland Brewery out of Green Bay, WI.

We unpack challenges the craft industry has faced over the years and the mindset changes brewery owners have had to make in order to stay adaptable and profitable in the face of headwinds.

We are thrilled to be back!

Links:

Hinterland Brewery - Website
Hinterland Brewery - Instagram

Book a Discovery Call
Subscribe for more insights

An Audio Archive Of Brewery Knowledge18 Mar 202200:01:10

When we started the true craft podcast, our goal was to continue our sharing of expert insight and knowledge of the craft industry, but in an audio format.

Over one year, four seasons, and fifty episodes later, we feel like we’ve accomplished that goal. In light of this realization, and with our focus shifting to other initiatives, we’ve decided this was the final season of The True Craft Podcast.

A big thank you goes out to our amazing co-host and guests. Of course, we want to thank YOU for coming along for the ride.

We have some links below to connect and continue the conversation.

Once again, we are incredibly grateful for your taking the time to listen to our podcast. We would like for this to act as an archive of audio knowledge, and we hope you will find it valuable.

Links:
Subscribe for more insight
Producer Josh's LinkedIn
Producer Josh's email: joshlbarnhart@gmail.com

S4E10 Expansion Expertise With Jason Sleeman14 Mar 202200:38:46

We’re at the end of season 4 and we can't thank you enough for another great season. We thought it would be fitting to cap things off with a friend of the show…

Today’s guest is Jason Sleeman, a National Craft Beverage Lender from United Community Bank out of Atlanta, Georgia.

Chris and Jason both give their perspective on current start-ups and expansions, the practicality of having no food program, and the potential future opportunity for contract brewers.

Enjoy!

Links:
United Community Bank
Jason’s LinkedIn

S4E9 Consistency And Community With Confluence Brewing Company07 Mar 202200:40:44

Today’s guest is the founder of a brewery with a built-in distribution company, helping other Iowa breweries distribute their beer throughout the entire state.

We’re talking with John Martin from Confluence Brewing Company out of Des Moines, Iowa.

John explains the distribution company Confluence has built over the years, their early days of packaging and how that’s changed, along with their “Dad beers” and the unique event that accompanies them.


Enjoy!

Links:
Confluence Brewing Company

E89: Intentional Innovation with Erik Fowler of San Diego Brewers Guild12 Jul 202400:41:44

In this episode of The True Craft Podcast we welcome Erik Fowler, Executive Director of the San Diego Brewers Guild. Join us for a jam-packed discussion on the financial landscape of craft breweries in 2024.

Highlights include:

  1. Erik shares his philosophy of "Beer is the what, not the why" in today's craft market, emphasizing that while breweries start with a passion for brewing, this can't be their sole driving force anymore
  2. Practical insights on managing excess capacity 
  3. The benefits of focusing your styles in distribution and how this can impact your sales reps, distributor relations, and overall business health

Erik underscores the importance of having a clear intention behind what you sell, why you sell it, and how you sell it. This, combined with the passion that originally inspired brewers to even open their doors, is the key to thriving in the next chapter of the craft beer industry. This episode is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss!

Links

San Diego Brewers Guild
San Diego Craft Beer Conference

Subscribe for more insight
Book a discovery call

S4E8 The Flavor And Function Of Beer With Carton Brewing Company28 Feb 202200:47:03

Today’s guest is a familiar voice in the podcast world and a leader in the brewery space in general.

We’re welcoming Augie Carton from Carton Brewing Company and Steal This Beer out of Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey.

We take a look at Carton Brewing's direct-to-consumer delivery system, we have a discussion on the public view of agriculture versus manufacturing and some of the repercussions these perspectives have on the brewing industry, along with a look at the nuance of the flavor and function of beer.

Enjoy!

Links:
Carton Brewing Company
Steal This Beer
Beer is cuisine: Augie Carton at TEDxNavesink

S4E7 From The Early Years Of Hazy Beers With The Alchemist21 Feb 202200:30:35

Today’s guest is an innovator in the hazy beer space, and an innovator in the brewery space in general, with their efforts of sustainability, inclusivity, and community.

We’re talking with Jen Kimmich from The Alchemist out of Stowe, Vermont

We talk about how they became a Certified B Corp in 2017, the details and effort behind their 2020 Action Plan, along with a trip back to the early innovation days of their hazy beer, The Heady Topper.

Enjoy!

Links:
The Alchemist
2020 Action Plan

S4E6 Running At The Right Size With Wooden Robot14 Feb 202200:38:45

Today’s guest is the CEO and Founder of an urban farmhouse brewery that sources their ingredients from local farmers in their area.

We’re talking with Josh Patton from Wooden Robot Urban Farmhouse Brewery out of Charlotte, North Carolina.

We talk about their self-distribution efforts throughout their entire state, how they are investing in the longevity of the brewery team along with nailing down the proper scale of the operation, and, of course, we talk about what it means to be an urban farmhouse brewery.

Enjoy!

Links:
Wooden Robot

S4E5 Fresh Brews And Imported Flavors With Kansas City Bier Company31 Jan 202200:34:15

Today’s guest co-founded a brewery specializing in German-style lager, who says they put the I back in “bier”.

Of course we’re speaking with none other than Steve Holle from Kansas City Bier Company, out of Kansas City, Missouri

Steve tells us about the background behind their authentic German-style beers, some insight into supply-chain issues going into 2022, along with a look into the effects, benefits, and challenges of a niche portfolio.

Enjoy!

Links:
Kansas City Bier Co

S4E4 Back To The Grind With Gnarly Barley Brewing Company24 Jan 202200:55:45

With skateboarders, mountain bikers, rock climbers, etc. all finding their place in breweries across the country, the parallels between craft brewing and extreme sports are everywhere.

From the dedication it takes to learn a new trick, to the ingenuity to build and maintain your equipment, to the supportive and collaborative community that surrounds action sports, there’s so much common ground.

And that’s why we’re thrilled to bring you our guest for today, Zac Caramonta from Gnarly Barley Brewing Company out of Hammond, Louisiana. 

We talk about Zac’s love for biking and his recent bike trips, how he’s successfully blended his passion for skateboarding with the brewery, along with some practical tips on preventative maintenance, and much more.

Enjoy!

Links:

Gnarly Barley Brewing Company

S4E3 Application Innovation With Great Notion17 Jan 202200:47:20

As you can probably tell from the title, today's guest is a real innovator in the app space.

Our guest for this episode is Paul Reiter from Great Notion Brewing out of Portland, Oregon

We learn how they got an early foot in the DTC door, their story and impact behind the Great Notion app, along with their collaboration with the Portland Trail Blazers.

And much more.

Enjoy!

Links:

Great Notion

Great Notion App - Apple App Store

Great Notion App - Google Play Store

S4E2 Partnerships And Collaboration With Land-Grant Brewing Company10 Jan 202200:49:35

Craft brewing and local communities go hand-in-hand, but it’s much more complicated than simply hosting a few events here and there.

To explore this topic further, we’re happy to welcome today’s guest—Adam Benner from Land-Grant Brewing Company out of Columbus, Ohio.

Chris and Adam talk about the meaning behind the name Land-Grant, the brewery's experience with award-winning food trucks, along with some background on their partnership with the Columbus Crew and their collaboration with the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Check out Adam’s podcast: The Beer With The Brewers Podcast!

Enjoy!

Links:

Land-Grant Brewing Company

The Beer With The Brewers Podcast

Columbus Crew Partners

S4E1 Crypto, NFTs, and Augmented Reality With Four Saints Brewing Company03 Jan 202200:53:40

Welcome back to The True Craft Podcast!

We’re kicking off Season 4 with two main changes:

First, this season will be about the conversation. In other words, no main topics for each episode. Instead, we let the natural flow of the conversation happen, and we really think you’ll like the result.

The second change is there’s no co-host for this season, so just Chris and a guest brewery owner.

Our first guest brewery owner of the season may seem familiar…

We’re starting off Season 4 with a bang and welcoming back Joel McClosky from Four Saints Brewing Company.

We start the episode off by taking a look at the unique event Four Saints held in their taproom last year, an interesting discussion on cryptocurrency, NFTs, and AR in the brewing industry, along with their plan to incorporate cocktails into the Four Saints portfolio.

Enjoy!

Links:

Four Saints Brewing Company

Rhinoleap Productions

Swigr

Friends of SBS #8: Going By The Book With Maria Pearman29 Nov 202100:36:18

Today we’re ending 2021 with a bang, and welcoming Maria Pearman for an edition of Friends of SBS

Maria is the author of Small Brewery Finance, along with being a CPA, and overall, a total craft beverage expert.

In this episode we talk about some of the changes she’s seen throughout her time in  the brewing industry, how her book Small Brewery Finance came to be, some future writing plans, along with a look into the state and growth of craft spirits.

Links:

Small Brewery Finance

Office Hours #7: Balancing Dance And Taxes With Julia Grubbs15 Nov 202100:24:09

We’ve got two more episodes for you before the end of the year, and today is this season's edition of Office Hours, a segment we created to highlight the expertise of the team members at Small Batch Standard. 

We’re talking with Brewery Accountant and Tax Specialist, Julia Grubbs.

She tells us how she earned her CPA title while working on a cruise ship, her journey to working with breweries, along with the value and benefit of quality tax handing.

Enjoy!

P.S. If you still need some listening material, Chris appeared on an episode of the Craft Brewery Financial Training Podcast with Kary Shumway. You can click this link to check it out or save for later!

E88: Developing Leaders in Craft with Grace Robbings and Larry Rock of Reuben’s Brews28 Jun 202400:40:19

In this episode of The True Craft Podcast, we chat with Grace Robbings, Co-Founder, and Larry Rock, Sales Representative, of Reuben’s Brews in Seattle! We shine a light on their work with the Mosaic State Brewers Collective, a mentorship program empowering underrepresented people to build careers in the craft beer industry.

A few highlights include:

  • Hear how the craft beer landscape has changed through the eyes of Larry, a veteran in the industry since the mid-1980s!
  • Learn about the Collective’s educational programming that includes three levels of training opportunities, designed to develop diverse leaders in craft
  • Discover the ins-and-outs of the Collective’s first-year "brewing school," where mentees followed a beer's full lifecycle from brewing to marketing.

Grace and Larry’s passion and experience make this an inspiring conversation you won't want to miss!

Links:
Mosaic State Brewers Collective - Website
Reuben’s Brews - Website
Métier Brewing Company - Website
Ombili IPA

Friends of SBS #7: A Labor Of Love With Andrew Coplon08 Nov 202100:27:57

In this edition of Friends of SBS, we’re talking with a true community leader for all professionals in the craft beer industry.

Today’s guest is Andrew Coplon from Secret Hopper and Craft Beer Professionals.

We talk about Andrew’s journey to where he is now, what it’s like working with Secret Hopper, and all the great things happening with the Craft Beer Professionals group.

Enjoy!

Links:

SecretHopper.com

CraftBeerProfessionals.org

Craft Beer Professionals Facebook Group

Friends of SBS #6: A Method To The Madness With Julie Rhodes01 Nov 202100:38:48

We’re back with another edition of our Friends of SBS series. 

Today’s industry expert specializes in brewery branding, sales, distribution management, and much more.

Our guest is Julie Rhodes the founder of Not Your Hobby Marketing Solutions out of Broomfield,  Colorado.

In this episode, Chris and Julie dive deep into the topics of distribution, content marketing, and outside sales.

Enjoy!

Links:

Not Your Hobby Marketing Solutions

S3E10 Takeaways From Season 3 With Chris And Adam25 Oct 202100:37:29

Today we’re taking a look back at all our topics and guests from the Season 3 of The True Craft Podcast.

Thanks to our guests, our amazing co-host Adam Robbings, and of course our listeners!

In this episode, Chris and Adam talk main takeaways from Season 3, along with an overview of hops contracts.

Enjoy!

Links:

Reuben’s Brews

Reuben’s Sightglass

S3E9 Standing Out With TRVE Brewing Company18 Oct 202100:45:04

Craft brewing is getting competitive... and crowded.

Nowadays, if you’re a new or an existing brewery, you have to ask yourself this question:

What makes my brewery different from every other brewery out there?

For this episode, we sat down with a TRVE expert on the topic, Nick Nunns from TRVE Brewing Company out of Denver, Colorado.

We talk about how TRVE overcame the early obstacle of being underfunded, the reason Nick chose the heavy metal branding style, and what they do to stand out in the crowded, competitive Denver market.

Enjoy!

Links:

TRVE Brewing Company

Reuben’s Brews

Reuben’s Sightglass

© My Podcast Data