For a while now, it has been my mission to cover the stories of Black women in the craft beer industry doing incredible things. Many of us started as casual drinkers and transitioned into the craft beer scene with the aim of bringing more diversity into it.

So, when Vivian Ward came to my attention, I knew I had to talk to her about The ExBeerience, her initiative focused on creating opportunities for beer lovers of all experience levels to learn about and enjoy beer through tastings, guided brewery tours, and more.

Listen in to hear Vivian talk about how The ExBeerience got its start and how her inaugural ExBeerience bottle share almost didn't happen. We discuss how diversity is the future of the craft beer industry and why it's essential for its growth. Vivian also emphasizes the importance of breweries creating inclusive spaces but also reaching out to the diverse communities they aim to attract. Let’s hear how Vivian is working to diversify taprooms in St. Louis.