Crafty Brewers: Tales Behind Craft Beer

Learn how BubbleHouse Brewing ensures they have “something for everyone” and the story behind the best pub game you’ve never heard of.

John and April Miller, owners of BubbleHouse Brewing Company, discuss crafting a diverse beer portfolio, providing unique taproom experiences, and their journey from corporate life to brewing. They discuss the challenges and rewards of brewing clean, simple beers without relying on heavy adjuncts and the importance of community engagement by creating an inclusive taproom atmosphere. John, who is also BubbleHouse’s brewer, also shares his experience getting Level 1 and 2 Cicerone Certifications from College of DuPage’s Business of Craft Beer education program and explains why Skeleton Key Brewery’s Spare Keys incubator program was instrumental in making BubbleHouse what it is today.

After the beer break, the Millers delve into specific beers including their Isle of Lyle Mexican Lager, 10 Second Hug Double Dry Hopped Hazy IPA, and Smoky Poofs Rye Smoked Porter, highlighting their balanced flavors and the brewing techniques that emphasize quality and authenticity. And stick around to hear about crokinole, the best pub game you’ve never heard of!

You can find our amazing merchandise and learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com 

About Bubblehouse Brewing Company: Having opened their doors in fall 2021, BubbleHouse prides itself on its welcoming community that offers something for everyone. Located at 2121 Ogden Ave., Unit A in Lisle, IL, you can learn more on their website at https://www.bubblehousebrewing.com/ 

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If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email [email protected]. We’re always happy to hear from you!

Crafty Brewers is a production of Quantum Podcasts, LLC. Is your brewery or business looking to capture a loyal audience to drive business results with the power of podcasting? Then visit https://quantum-podcasts.com/ to learn more.

Our executive producer and editor is award-winning podcaster Cody Gough. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: craft beer, brewing techniques, craft brewing, inclusive taproom, crokinole, Lisle, craft beer creativity, experimental hazy IPAs, clean simple beers, brewing process, taste-testing, College of DuPage Business of Craft Beer program, Cicerone program, beer quality, beer authenticity, family-friendly brewery, pet-friendly brewery, non-beer drinkers, Canadian pub game, lactose in beer, dietary restrictions, beer pairings, brewing principles, brewing challenges, community engagement, seasonal beers, pub games, beer styles, beer flavor balance, beer brewing courses, and beer adjuncts.

Learn how Horse Thief Hollow became the most award-winning brewery on the south side of Chicago, having won 10 major awards (and counting).

Horse Thief Hollow Brewing Co’s Jake Nelson (Head Brewer) and Adrian Morrison (Brewer and Sales Manager) discuss the fascinating legacy of Horse Thief Hollow Brewing in Chicago's historic Beverly neighborhood, exploring the origins of the brewery's name, its cultural significance, and why the Illinois militia had to run off horse thieves in the very early days of Chicago. They also share their humble beer origin stories, including Andrian’s rising through the ranks in order to get to where he is at Horse Thief Hollow. They also talk about what “cellar work” actually means when working in beer before they discuss how Horse Thief Hollow Brewing Co. has become the most award-winning brewery on Chicago’s south side, including a deep dive into how they overcame the challenge of brewing high-quality Pilsners consistently in order to come up with their award-winning Little Wing Pilsner. 

After the beer break, they discuss Annexation, a West Coast IPA, including an explanation of what makes an IPA a West Coast IPA specifically and why West Coast IPAs are making a comeback. Jake also talks about when a beer is “done” and he doesn’t feel like he needs to keep changing a recipe. Then, they discuss Horse Thief’s Soul Train Sour Ale, which they insist Brian try, even though Brian is outspoken about the fact that he doesn’t normally like sours. Did he love it or not? You’ll have to listen to find out!

Today’s Featured Merchandise: Celebrate the art of beer diversity with the "Taste the Grainbow" muscle tank. Featuring a colorful design of four unique beers, this tank is perfect for craft beer enthusiasts who embrace variety, available in multiple styles and colors! Every purchase you make directly supports the show's production and hosting costs. Find it here: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/gals-grainbow-tank?_pos=1&_sid=fd3f273a5&_ss=r 

You can find other amazing merchandise and learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com 

About Horse Thief Hollow Brewing Co: Located in the Beverly neighborhood on Chicago’s South side, Horse Thief earned its 10th craft beer award in its 10th year of brewing: Little Wing Pilsner captured gold medals at the World Beer Cup and the Great American Beer Festival in 2023. Learn more on their website at https://horsethiefbrewing.com/ 

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If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email [email protected]. We’re always happy to hear from you!

You can also follow Crafty Brewers on Instagram at https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod 

Crafty Brewers is produced by award-winning podcaster Cody Gough. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: Pilsner, West Coast IPA, East Coast IPA, Sour Beer, Milkshake IPA, Slushy Sour, Farmhouse Ales, Saison, Kolsch, Lager, craft beer, Chicago's South Side, Soul Train Sour Series, Mango Tahini, beer pairings, craft beer trends, German hops, brewing consistency, Lagering process, brewing techniques, cellar work, award-winning beer, beer SOPs, South Side beer market, brewing philosophy, sourcing beer ingredients, beer clarity, American malts, German malts, Tettnanger hops, beer fermentation, craft beer enthusiasts, Miller High Life, Allagash White, Pistachio brown ale, Brewing innovation, Beverly neighborhood, Illinois militia history, Chicago history, and horse thieves.

Learn how Burning Bush Brewery crafts its unique brews, including their spruce tip IPA named after a true story of “tree wrestling.” 

Burning Bush Brewery’s Brent Raska, owner and brewer, and Scott McElhenney, head brewer, discuss their unique transition from meeting at church to brewing together, the surprising similarities between running a church parish and running a brewery, and the art of crafting kettle sours. They also delve into why they typically have about 12 of their own beers on tap, ranging from lagers to stouts to IPAs to seasonal brews, and how they became known for their sours and IPAs in particular.

After the beer break, Brent and Scott discuss their signature beers, such as the fruit-forward Red Sea Raspberry Kettle Sour and the spruce-infused Tree Wrestler Spruce-Tip IPA. They explain the difference between a regular sour and a kettle sour and the difference between a regular and a hazy IPA. More importantly, Brent shares the unbelievable story of “tree wrestling” that inspired the Tree Wrestler Spruce-Tip IPA and how actual spruce tips are involved in its brewing process. Plus: the unique use of hops like Mosaic in creating distinct flavors, growing basil on-site to use in their beers, the science behind crafting Hazy IPAs with specific yeast strains for desired haziness and flavor profiles, and how to strike the right balance with additions like peanut butter, as experienced in their St. Peter Peanut Butter Porter.

Today’s Featured Merchandise: Buy our merchandise that says “I just want beer flavored beer,” available in multiple styles and colors! Every purchase you make directly supports the show's production and hosting costs.

Garment-dyed Heavyweight T-shirt: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-flavored-beer-garment-dyed-heavyweight-t-shirt-1 

Long Sleeve T-Shirt: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-flavored-beer-long-sleeve-t-shirt-1?variant=44283749236976 

Premium Crewneck Sweatshirt: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-flavored-beer-premium-crewneck-sweatshirt?variant=44281814745328 

You can find other amazing merchandise and learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com 

About Burning Bush Brewery: Located in the North Center neighborhood of Chicago, their mission is to provide high-quality Craft Beer, generous hospitality, and to serve their neighborhood and the greater Chicago community. With 12 rotating taps, there are always a variety of styles available including IPAs, lagers, sours, stouts and seasonal and unique offerings like an apple ale, a spruce-tip IPA and an amber ale brewed with homegrown basil. Learn more on their website at https://www.burningbushbrewery.com/ 

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If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email [email protected]. We’re always happy to hear from you!

You can also follow Crafty Brewers on Instagram at https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod 

Crafty Brewers is a production of Quantum Podcasts, LLC. Is your brewery or business looking to capture a loyal audience to drive business results with the power of podcasting? Then visit https://quantum-podcasts.com/ to learn more.

Our executive producer and editor is award-winning podcaster Cody Gough. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: St. Peter peanut butter porter, Hazy IPAs, brewing techniques, spruce tips, spruce-infused beer, beer flavor balancing, peanut flour, powdered peanut butter, basil-infused amber ale, St. Basil Amber Ale, maple bacon imperial red ale, craft beer community, brewing innovation, home-grown basil, beer naming, India pale lagers, cold IPAs, brown IPA, growler sales, beer pairing, beer and food pairing, River Room event space, brewing equipment, fermentation, dry hopping, lactobacillus, Brettanomyces, and the brewing process.

Learn how Twisted Hippo recovered from a devastating fire and found a way to thrive while brewing their unique beers.

Karl and Marilee Rutherford, co-founders and owners of Twisted Hippo, share the story of their humble beginnings from a homebrewing beer kit from Bed, Bath, and Beyond, to opening a brewery. They explain how they recovered from a devastating fire in 2022, after which the Chicago craft brewery community rallied around them to help them get back on their feet, and the innovative way they found a way to maintain a physical presence at District Brew Yards.

After the beer break, Karl and Marilee delve into the brewing techniques and flavor profiles of their honey-infused cream ale and award-winning Golden Lasso beer and talk about honey as an adjunct in beer. They also discuss the importance of embracing individuality in brewing and the significance of water chemistry in beer production. Plus: a whimsical look at their mascot, Pinky, and insights into balancing innovation with financial sustainability.

Today’s Featured Merchandise: Show off your Pride with our “Beer is for Everyone” merchandise, available in multiple styles and colors! Every purchase you make directly supports the show's production and hosting costs.

Beer is for Everyone soft style tank: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-is-for-everyone-soft-style-tank 

Beer is for Everyone Uni-Sexy Heavyweight Tee: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-is-for-everyone-uni-sexy-tee 

Beer is for Everyone Uni-Sexy Soft Style Tee: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-is-for-everyone-uni-sexy-soft-tee 

You can find other amazing merchandise and learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com 

About Twisted Hippo: Funky brewpub with creative eats paired with house beers and oversized cans to-go. Now pouring at District Brew Yards: 417 N. Ashland Ave, Chicago IL. Learn more on their website at https://www.twistedhippo.com/ 

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If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email [email protected]. We’re always happy to hear from you!

You can also follow Crafty Brewers on Instagram at https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod 

Crafty Brewers is a production of Quantum Podcasts, LLC. Is your brewery or business looking to capture a loyal audience to drive business results with the power of podcasting? Then visit https://quantum-podcasts.com/ to learn more.

Our executive producer and editor is award-winning podcaster Cody Gough. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: Twisted Hippo Brewing, craft beer, brewing systems, beer pairings, Mr. Beer Kit, ADHD creativity, honey-infused cream ale, Golden Lasso beer, brewing equipment, water chemistry, brewpub, collaboration with District Brewery Yards, craft beer industry, Pinky mascot, resilience, financial sustainability, homebrew, beer innovation, unique beer styles, Belgian IPA, Old St. Augie's, California common, Bee’s Sleaze, roasted beets, Kolsch, electrical brewing elements, boiler system, direct fire kettle system, steam systems, Lake Michigan water, fermentation, hops, Pilsners, IPAs, buckwheat honey, ESB, food and beer pairings, bourbon, Malort, craft beer community, beer festivals, brewing challenges, and water in beer.

Learn how Revolution Brewing grew from a small brewery to Illinois’ largest independently-owned brewery — and what makes their beer so special.

03:51 Beer Myth: Do all yeasts ferment the same way? Katherine challenges the idea that top fermenting and bottom fermenting yeasts function in the same way. Learn what yeasts actually do and the role they play in the fermentation process.

09:03 Revolution Brewing Interview: David Blackford, Lead Brewer at Revolution Brewing, explains the difference between a head brewer and a lead brewer, reminisces about his first impressions of Revolution Brewing and the first beer he ever got to work on, and discusses the development of signature beers like Eugene Porter and Anti-Hero, his journey from a packaging specialist to lead brewer, and what it was like for the brewery to transition from a small brewery to a large-scale operation, including the use of new technology like centrifuges to increase production capacity.

Then, David talks about Revolution’s latest favorite, the Cold Time Lager, and explores the growing trend of lighter, less complicated beers making a comeback, emphasizing the appreciation for quality brewing with fewer ingredients. David and Katherine discuss the difficulty (and fun!) of naming beers before Cody jumps in with questions about Revolution’s Deep Wood Series of barrel-aged beers, including what inspired Revolution to release such high ABV beers year-round. The discussion also touches on memorable yet discontinued brews, such as the Bottom Up Wit, discussing its unique qualities and why it's no longer a staple despite its popularity. David also clarifies the differences between Wit wheat beers and Hefeweizens, focusing on yeast's role in defining their distinct flavors. 

53:56 Beer Behavior: What’s up with hop waters? David discusses the intricacies and challenges of making hop water, a non-alcoholic beverage gaining popularity among beer enthusiasts, including insights into their process for creating Super Zero. He discusses the benefits of hop water as a non-alcoholic alternative that allows breweries to showcase their craftsmanship, its role as an excellent palate cleanser at beer festivals like FOBAB, and its versatile suitability for various settings, from work lunches to outdoor activities. 

1:00:12 Today’s Featured Merchandise: “Drink a Stout” tee (if you can drink coffee, then you can drink a stout!), available in multiple colors! Every purchase you make directly supports the show's production and hosting costs.

Drink a stout tee: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/drink-a-stout-tee?variant=44583864369392 

You can find other amazing merchandise and learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com 

About Revolution Brewing: Revolution is Illinois' largest independently-owned brewery. Learn more on their website at https://revbrew.com/ 

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If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email [email protected]. We’re always happy to hear from you!

You can also follow Crafty Brewers on Instagram at https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod 

Crafty Brewers is produced by award-winning podcaster Cody Gough. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: craft beer, Chicago breweries, fermentation science, ale yeast, lager yeast, craft brewing trends, hop water, craft beer industry, beer fermentation, top fermenting yeast, bottom fermenting yeast, signature beers, Eugene Porter, Anti-Hero IPA, Big Star, brewing challenges, beer naming, hop trends, brewing stories, craft beer community, beer recipes, craft beer collaborations, hop waters, non-alcoholic beer, brewing innovation, fermentation process, beer myths, Chicago craft beer, beer quality checks, beer technology, centrifuges in brewing, and year-round barrel-aged beers.

Learn how Old Irving became so successful, it needed to open a new production facility — and what went into the expansion.

02:18 Beer Myth: When brewing sour beers, is kettle souring lazy? Katherine has some HOT TAKES about this, and Trevor from Old Irving Brewing Co. explains the science behind what actually creates sour beers. Discover the facts behind this common misconception and learn how kettle souring is a legitimate and skillful method that produces some of the best-tasting sours. Bonus: learn how a “West Coast Pilsner” is different from a regular Pilsner and what it has to do with a thing known as a Cold IPA.

10:08 NAME OF BREWERY: Old Irving Brewing Co. Head Brewer and Co-Founder Trevor Rose-Hamblin shares the back story of his move from restauranteur to brewer, including an appearance on BrewDog that led to him brewing in Scotland for 3 months. Trevor also explains how after just 2 years of development, his Citra & Mosaic hopped Hazy IPA Beezer won a gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival in 2019 and another gold at the World Beer Cup in Las Vegas in 2024 (both in the Hazy IPA category). 

After the beer break, Trevor and Brian crack open a Della, which won a silver medal at the Great American Beer Festival in 2021 in the German-Style Kölsch category. Della is a Kölsch-Style Ale brewed with high-quality Pilsner, a touch of Vienna malt, and lightly hopped with Zuper Saazer, Hallertau Mittelfrüh, & Tettnang. Trevor also talks about Old Irving’s new brewing facility, what compelled them to move into a new facility, and the craft beer community in Chicago that helped spur their growth. Brian also coaxes Trevor into doing his hilarious impersonation of one of his Chicago craft beer community colleagues (but you’ll have to listen to find out which one!).

58:35 Beer Behavior: How does scarcity work when it comes to beer? Does it drive sales even when it’s obviously manufactured? Brian talks about how Wisconsin breweries were featured during a recent convention and Katherine presents her “barbecue festival philosophy” of scarcity.

You can find our amazing merchandise and learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com 

About Old Irving Brewing Co: Located in the Irving Park neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, the brewers behind Old Irving Brewing Co. were brewing in their garage with aspirations of crafting beer for their local community all the way back in 2014, two years before they opened their doors. Today, they’ve created hundreds of ales and lagers—earning a few GABF and World Beer Cup medals along the way—and now distribute their beers throughout Illinois and Wisconsin. Learn more on their website at https://oldirvingbrewing.com/ 

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If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email [email protected]. We’re always happy to hear from you!

You can also follow Crafty Brewers on Instagram at https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod 

Crafty Brewers is produced by award-winning podcaster Cody Gough. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: Chicago craft beer, craft beer scene, award-winning beers, West Coast Pilsner, Cinnamon Prost, Hazy IPA, Beezer IPA, Great American Beer Fest, brewing techniques, Pipeworks collaboration, BrewDog Scotland, Flossmoor Station, Home brewing, Craft beer myths, Beer trends, Moto Restaurant, brewery expansion, collaborative brewing, beer labeling, Lagers popularity, brewing science, brewing process, Omega Yeast Labs, Chicago's best beers, craft brewing success, brewing industry, culinary arts to brewing, beer production, and Chicago beer landmarks.

Explore bitter beers with Midwest Coast, including ESBs, English Pale Ales, and IPAs that cater to evolving palates.

01:48 Beer Myth: What’s a “girly drink” when it comes to beers? Katherine and Brian and their guests shatter the myth that some beers are “manly” and others are not. 

07:32 Midwest Coast Brewing: Cameron Compton, founder of Midwest Coast, and Timothy Ficken, brewery manager, talk about what brought them together to Midwest Coast. They share the different beer trends that were emerging in their very different parts of the country, with hops being a central part of one brewer’s background and almost completely absent from the other’s. Cameron also discusses his time in the military and in the tech world and what compelled him to move with his wife to Chicago, where he had never lived before, and open a brewery with his sister. Cameron also explains how hop contracts work and why they’re so brutal for brewers to work with.

What is an English IPA and what is an ESB? Timothy explains the concept behind the “Extra Special Bitter” and how they developed an English Pale Ale in order to make a certain style more palatable – and marketable – for customers. Katherine brings up a conversation about whether the Western palate really is designed to handle hops (is it?) and Brian explores the idea of a person’s palate changing as they grow older. What is hoppy and what is earthy? An EXTENSIVE debate ensues, including a confused Cody who doesn’t know how to explain what he’s drinking.

54:20 Beer Behavior: When is it okay for brewers to chase trends and when is it not? Katherine gives props to Cameron and Timothy for sticking to the styles they like to brew, which evolves into a discussion of the benefits of trend-chasing – as long as someone else is doing it.

1:01:48 Today’s Featured Merchandise: Our amazing baseball hats, available in multiple styles and colors! Every purchase you make directly supports the show's production and hosting costs.

Dad hat: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/cbp-dad-hat 

Distressed dad hat: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/cbp-distressed-dad-hat 

Richardson 112 trucker cap: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/cbp-richardson-112-trucker-cap 

You can find other amazing merchandise and learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com 

About Midwest Coast Brewing: Located in West Town, Chicago, Midwest Coast’s family-friendly and dog-friendly taproom welcomes everyone. Learn more on their website at https://www.midwestcoastbrewing.com/ 

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If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email [email protected]. We’re always happy to hear from you!

You can also follow Crafty Brewers on Instagram at https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod 

Crafty Brewers is produced by award-winning podcaster Cody Gough. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: extra special bitter, English sporting beer, English IPA, English Pale Ales, craft beer, Chicago brewery, beer myths, fruit-infused beer, beer culture, beer trends, sustainability in brewing, dog-friendly breweries, beer styles, homebrewing, West Coast IPAs, English Sporting Beer, IPA popularity, ESB beers, traditional beer styles, beer diversity, brewing philosophy, regional beer differences, craft beer enthusiasts, beer community initiatives, beer market, brewery growth, sibling partnerships, craft beer journey, personal beer stories, craft beer stereotypes, professional brewers, Chicago craft beer scene, craft beer podcast, unique beer flavors, local beer partnerships, brewing beyond boundaries, craft beer myths, chasing trends, and balanced beer offerings.

Discover Azadi Brewing's unique fusion of Indian spices and American craft beer, plus debunk myths about coffee beers.

03:23 Beer Myth: Will coffee-infused beer keep you awake all night? Discover how ingredients like coffee and tea are integrated into beers and learn the truth behind the caffeine content in coffee beers.

08:14 Azadi Brewing Company Interview: Bhavik Modi and Gator Schrand from Azadi Brewing talk about the unique origin story of their Indian-infused craft beer company. They talk about the complexity of Indian cuisine and the opportunities that presents for them to be able to incorporate new ingredients into their beers, including the difficulty of working with certain ingredients like cardamom. 

After the beer break, Bhavik and Gator describe a collab they did with a brewery in Mumbai, India. Bhavik also explains what chicory is and what it adds to the beers they brew. They talk about their commitment to authenticity and how leaning into the Indian identity of their beers has resonated well with consumers. 

44:20 Beer Behavior: Are beers getting more boring? Is there space for more exciting beers? Katherine talks about the importance of breweries staying true to themselves, even when they don’t follow major industry trends. Bhavik and Gator share their points of view on what trends actually tell us about consumer behavior and how it’s affected the focus of their brewing.

You can find other amazing merchandise and learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com 

Learn more about Azadi Brewing on their website at https://www.azadibrewing.com/ 

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If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email [email protected]. We’re always happy to hear from you!

You can also follow Crafty Brewers on Instagram at https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod 

Crafty Brewers is produced by award-winning podcaster Cody Gough. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: craft beer, Indian-inspired beers, Azadi Brewing, cardamom-infused golden ale, craft brewing, cultural fusion, brewing science, lemongrass saison, summertime chai, hazy IPAs, beer myths, coffee beers, brewing philosophies, craft beer trends, seltzers, belgian wit, basmati rice lager, chicory root, coffee substitute, pilot project brewing, indian cuisine, regional beers, indian spices, beer collaborations, Nepalese cuisine, sustainable agriculture, beer innovations, American craft beer, Indian flavors, regional fruits, mountain resort towns, brewing challenges, beer storytelling, beer culture, and craft beer education.

Mikerphone Brewing’s Mike Pallen talks beer collabs and what goes into brewing a coffee stout like Smells Like Bean Spirit.

01:24 Beer Myth:  Does beer make you full, or does it just make you feel full? Learn the truth behind what it is about beer that may be giving you a sensation of fullness, and discover how understanding this can help you enjoy your brews without feeling overly stuffed. Plus: a hilarious and super random tangent about caftans (calf tans?) that really throws everyone for a loop, especially Cody.

09:36 Mikerphone Brewing Interview: Mike Pallen, owner and head brewer of Mikerphone Brewing, discusses his journey from botany to brewing, sharing insights on how his love for beer began. He delves into the trials and triumphs of starting a brewery, the trend of breweries in industrial spaces, the science behind barrel-aged beers, the influence of music on his brewing process, and the significance of local festivals in building community spirit.

The episode covers an array of unique beers such as the Misty Mountain Hop, Smells Like Bean Spirit, and Special Sauce, each with distinct flavor profiles, from coffee maple stouts to double-hopped IPAs. Mike also talks about his brewery’s special barrel-aged releases, including the Barrel-Aged Imperial Smells Like Bean Spirit Special Reserve, its meticulous production process, and the use of local whiskey barrels. Plus: why Mikerphone isn’t serving THC seltzers.

59:38 Beer Behavior: How are hop alternatives like T90 impacting the beer industry? Katherine and Mike go down a hop alternative rabbit hole and talk Incognito, Cryo, and other materials that are finding their way into beers these days.

1:09:12 Today’s Featured Merchandise: Check out our “Beer is for Everyone” merchandise from our Pride collection, available in multiple styles and colors! Every purchase you make directly supports the show's production and hosting costs.

You can find other amazing merchandise and learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com 

Please nominate/vote for us in the 19th Annual People’s Choice Podcast Awards! Register at https://www.podcastawards.com/app/signup and find Crafty Brewers: Tales Behind Craft Beer in the drop-down menu for the Leisure category. Voting in all other categories is optional. Just remember to save/submit your vote at the bottom of the page when you’re done!

About Mikerphone Brewing: Located at 121 Garlisch Drive in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, Mikerphone Brewing is a Chicago craft beer that infuses music. Learn more on their website at https://mikerphonebrewing.com/ 

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If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email [email protected]. We’re always happy to hear from you!

You can also follow Crafty Brewers on Instagram at https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod 

Crafty Brewers is produced by award-winning podcaster Cody Gough. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: craft beer, beer myths, beer science, carbonation, botany classes, special releases, beer festivals, community collaboration, beer production, beer names, brewing trials, brewing triumphs, caftan mishaps, brewing techniques, beer flavor profiles, brewing equipment, brewing history, brewing challenges, brewing successes, and craft beer trends, India Pale Ales, Barrel-Aged Imperial Stouts, Coffee Maple Stouts, Milk Stouts, Double-Hopped IPAs, beer with oysters, beer with nuts, and hop extracts.

Jim Koblish from Hop District Community Brewing Co. shares his unique story of going from distiller to brewer. Plus: Florida’s craft beer culture shock.

01:59 Beer Myth: Does beer taste better in bottles or in cans? Discover the truth behind a persistent craft beer myth and how understanding the science of BPA-lined cans and light exposure can elevate your beer-drinking experience.

08:30 Hop District Community Brewing Co: Co-owner and brewer Jim Koblish shares his unconventional path from distilling to brewing and talks about the brewing principles shaping today's craft beer scene. He also discusses the transferable skills between distilling and brewing, the challenges of brewing Imperial Stouts with manual setups, and the nuances of heavily fruited sours and adjunct-heavy milkshake beers. Plus: insights into the camaraderie in the local beer scene, plans for a new brewing facility, and the unique identity of Hop District as Illinois' 300th brewery.

51:11 Beer Behavior: What’s the difference between the craft beer community in Chicago and in Florida? Listen tofind out!

1:00:35 Today’s Featured Merchandise: We have a Pride Collection! We have lots of other stuff! And it’s all available in multiple styles and colors! Every purchase you make directly supports the show's production and hosting costs. Check it out at https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/ 

You can find amazing merchandise and learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com 

About Hop District Community Brewing Co: Located in La Grange Park, Illinois, Hop District is an IPA and Lager focused craft brewery with a touch of sours, big imperial stouts, and plenty of seasonal brews, which you can consume RESPONSIBLY in a beautiful lounge, enclosed beer garden, and a taproom. Learn more on their website at https://hopdistrictbrewing.com/home-1 

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If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email [email protected]. We’re always happy to hear from you!

You can also follow Crafty Brewers on Instagram at https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod 

Crafty Brewers is produced by award-winning podcaster Cody Gough. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: craft beer, brewing, craft beer myths, cans vs bottles, brewing innovations, craft beer trends, modern BPA-lined cans, beer protection against light, beer perception, whiskey to brewing, distilling to brewing, Illinois breweries, homebrewing, LaGrange Park, beer science, growlers vs cans, beer containers, beer myths debunked, brewing skills, craft beer community, beer styles, heavily fruited sours, adjunct-heavy milkshake beers, imperial stouts, manual brewing setup, local beer scene, camaraderie among brewers, collaborative brews, brewing principles, brewing trends, craft beer traditions, homebrewing mishaps, beer names, brewing facility expansion, automated brewing equipment, beer packaging, local beer portfolios, and cultural differences in brewing.