Season 3 continues with Cody Gagnon, owner and head brewer of Michi Brew Co., one of the freshest faces in San Diego’s ever-evolving beer scene.In this episode, Cody shares the whirlwind journey of opening Michi Brew Co. in just a few months, the learning curve of taking over an existing space, and how his background in hospitality shaped the guest experience at his tropical-themed tasting room in San Marcos. From navigating equipment quirks to organizing a grand opening with 500+ guests, Cody reflects on what it takes to launch a community-focused brewery today — and what he’s planning next, from tiki mug clubs to can releases and summer luaus.🍺 Topics discussed:– Opening a brewery fast by taking over an existing space– The importance of community, branding, and guest experience– Challenges of transitioning into ownership– The inspiration behind Michi Brew Co. and its tropical theme– Beer naming tied to geography and style– Future events, membership plans, and low-ABV innovationsWatch the full episode now and subscribe for more insider stories from the people building San Diego’s world-renowned beer culture.

In the Season 3 kickoff of the Capital of Craft podcast, we sit down with Jorge Torres—local beer writer, Brewers Guild Education Committee member, and associate producer of this very show. Jorge shares his story of growing up in Escondido, serving in the Navy, and returning home with a passion for craft beer and community connection.

From volunteering at Stone Brewing to helping organize educational events for the Guild, Jorge shows that you don’t need to be a brewer to make a real impact in the industry. We talk about the value of beer education, why creating welcoming taproom spaces matters, and how local passion keeps the San Diego beer scene thriving.

Whether you’re a fellow beer enthusiast or thinking about getting more involved, this episode is filled with inspiration and insight.

Topics discussed include:

• Jorge’s personal beer journey and first “aha” moment
• His work on the SDBG Education Committee
• How BattleMage Brewing and other local spots build community
• The importance of volunteers in the craft beer ecosystem
• What it means to give back and grow with the industry

In this episode of the Capital of Craft Podcast, we sit down with Dan Denham, General Manager of the San Diego County Water Authority, to discuss the essential role water plays in the craft brewing industry. From the origins of San Diego’s water supply to the challenges breweries face when balancing water chemistry, we explore the vital connection between water management and beer quality.

Dan shares insights into how the Water Authority ensures a sustainable future for the region’s water supply, even during drought conditions. Learn why water quality and availability are crucial for brewing the perfect pint, and discover how local breweries can better adapt to changing water dynamics.

Topics Discussed:

• The history and infrastructure of San Diego’s water supply
• Challenges breweries face with water quality and chemistry
• How SD prepares for droughts and ensures water sustainability
• Tips for breweries on managing water costs and quality
• Collaborating with local water districts for optimal water usage

Unlock the keys to financial sustainability in craft beer with Matthew Holden, brewery consultant and former co-owner of Rip Current Brewing. In this episode of the Capital of Craft Podcast, we explore the financial strategies every brewery needs to survive and thrive in today’s competitive market.From understanding costs to long-term planning, Holden shares insights on how breweries can avoid common financial pitfalls, improve profitability, and build a sustainable business model. Whether you’re a brewery owner, operator, or aspiring beer entrepreneur, this episode is packed with real-world financial advice tailored for the craft beer industry.Topics Discussed:✔️ Why financial literacy is crucial for breweries✔️ How to track costs and avoid losing money on sales✔️ Lessons from COVID’s impact on brewery business models✔️ The importance of production planning & seasonal beer strategies✔️ How the San Diego Brewers Guild is supporting financial education

In this episode of the Capital Craft Podcast, we welcome Esthela Davila, the 2025 San Diego Brewers Guild President, to discuss her journey in the craft beer industry and the future of San Diego’s brewing community.

Esthela shares how she got started in beer—from volunteering at festivals to leading a brewery and founding advocacy groups like Pink Boots Society and a Beer Club for Women. She opens up about the challenges of representation in craft beer, the importance of making breweries more accessible, and how the San Diego Brewers Guild is working to support local brewers.

We also discuss:

✅ The evolution of San Diego’s craft beer scene

✅ Why diversity and inclusion matter in brewing

✅ The shift from beer hype culture to community-driven taprooms

✅ How breweries can attract new beer drinkers & underrepresented groups

✅ Plans for San Diego Beer Week 2025

San Diego is one of the nation’s top craft beer cities—so what’s next for its brewers? Tune in as we explore how collaboration, education, and innovation continue to shape the industry.

How can breweries and taprooms create more welcoming spaces for families and individuals with autism? In this episode of Capital of Craft, we sit down with Shahriar Afshar, Executive Director of the Autism Society San Diego, to discuss the challenges autism families face when trying to enjoy public spaces—and how breweries can take small, meaningful steps toward inclusivity.Shahriar shares insights from his personal experience as a special needs parent, the simple accommodations that can make a world of difference, and the ways breweries can foster a more inclusive, autism-friendly environment. From sensory-conscious settings to hosting Autism Happy Hours, we explore actionable ways for the beer industry to better serve this growing community.💡 Topics Covered in This Episode:The challenges autism families face in public spacesHow breweries can make small changes for big impactTraining staff to be more autism-awareThe power of patience and understandingPartnering with the Autism Society for community events

In this episode of Capital of Craft Podcast, hosts Erik Fowler and Jeff Fox sit down with Neva Parker, Director of Operations at White Labs, to explore her 20-year journey in craft beer—from her unexpected start in yeast science to becoming a leader in our industry.

Neva shares personal stories and insights about what’s kept her passionate through decades of change, the importance of people over product, and how San Diego’s beer community can continue to thrive in a shifting market. As a returning board member for the San Diego Brewers Guild (2025-2026), she also reflects on what’s changed since her first time on the board in 2011 and why engagement is more important than ever.

💡 Key Topics Covered:

✅ The evolution of San Diego beer from the “Wild West” days to today.

✅ Why connection & community are more important than ever for breweries.

✅ Lessons from White Labs on adaptability and longevity in the industry.

✅ The balance between loving beer and avoiding industry burnout.

With a unique blend of scientific expertise and deep industry experience, Neva brings a fresh perspective on what makes craft beer special—and what it takes to keep the passion alive.

In this episode of Capital of Craft Podcast, hosts Erik Fowler and Jeff Fox welcome Jeff Lozano, Brand Ambassador for Ballast Point Brewing Company, to discuss the evolution of San Diego’s craft beer scene and the importance of building a strong community and culture within the industry.Jeff shares his inspiring journey from nursing school to becoming a key figure in craft beer, starting as a janitor and working his way through the ranks at Ballast Point. He offers unique insights into fostering collaboration among breweries, the industry's challenges today, and how the San Diego Brewers Guild is working to reinvigorate pride and innovation in the local beer scene.Here's what we discussed in this episode:• The vital role of culture and collaboration in craft beer success.• Navigating challenges in the craft beer industry, from market saturation to rising costs.• How the San Diego Brewers Guild supports breweries and drives community engagement.• Jeff’s advice for creating memorable consumer experiences that build loyalty.• Why fostering pride and passion is essential for the next generation of brewers.Whether you’re a brewer, beer enthusiast, or industry professional, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable insights!

Hosts Erik Fowler and Jeff Fox sit down with Mack Sant from CraftMaster Stainless to delve into the critical topic of brewery preventative maintenance. With a unique background as a former brewer turned equipment specialist, Mack shares invaluable insights into keeping brewery operations running smoothly and efficiently. From the importance of proactive maintenance to the impact of cleanliness on beer quality, this conversation is a must-watch for brewery owners, brewers, and anyone involved in the craft beer industry.

Join us on this episode of The Capital of Craft Podcast as we talk with historian and Brewchive curator Judith Downie. Judith shares the story behind the Brewchive at Cal State San Marcos, an archive dedicated to documenting San Diego’s vibrant beer history. From the early days of brewing to the city’s modern craft beer scene, Judith explains how the Brewchive preserves the stories, styles, and people who have shaped the industry. We also explore how San Diego’s brewing culture reflects broader trends in history, economics, and community.

What to Expect: