Today’s episode was recorded live at New Holland Brewing Company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where we interviewed New Holland Brewing’s founder and CEO, Brett VanderKamp.

Brett graduated college as a Geology major but soon thereafter found his calling in the craft brewing industry and has grown New Holland Brewing into one of the most recognisable independent brewers and distillers in the country.

We discuss a number of topics with Brett today, including his childhood influences, the values that shape New Holland Brewing, and how Brett is cultivating his children’s entrepreneurial spirit.

What we talk about:
2:41 – What was Brett’s upbringing like?
4:39 – What did Brett study at college?
7:00 – How did Brett’s father and grandfather influence his entrepreneurial spirit?
9:43 – How did Brett develop his business’ purpose and values?
11:57 – What are some of Brett’s reflections on the early days of the New Holland Brewing Company?
14:40 – How are Brett’s children getting involved in the business and what are his thoughts on succession?
19:08 – What is the “why” that drives Brett?
20:54 – How has Brett’s geology background helped him think about the future of his business?
22:47 – What challenges lay ahead for brewers?
25:08 – How do you prepare for the big changes in a business (like succession planning)?
28:09 – How can business owners instill their values in the next generation?
30:26 – How can you pivot when presented with a setback?