The BrewDeck Podcast

The BrewDeck Podcast

By Country Malt Group

We'll be focusing on a myriad of topics to help Inspire Your Craft. We have a line up of special guests that we're pulling out of the woodwork across the globe to discuss everything brewing and distilling. We'll cover topics from selecting and sourcing raw materials for production to innovative new trends and products; you won't want to miss an episode. So mark your calendars, grab your favorite craft beer or spirit, and join us for some inspiration - Cheers!
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E.7 S.12 - Brewing for a Cause

The BrewDeck PodcastSep 29, 2026
00:00
46:40
E.7 S.12 - Brewing for a Cause

E.7 S.12 - Brewing for a Cause

In this episode of The BrewDeck Podcast, we’re talking about brewing for something bigger than beer. We sit down with the people behind Ales for ALS and Rising Hope, two programs bringing the brewing community together to raise awareness and support critical research for ALS and pediatric cancer.

Hear from Mike Shannon of Ales for ALS, Meghann Quinn of Bale Breaker Brewing Company, Leigh Harting of the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, and Anthony Derby of Florida Avenue Brewing Company as we talk about the stories behind these programs, the power of the brewing community, and how breweries and industry partners can get involved.

Great beer. Great people. Greater purpose.

Sep 29, 202646:40
E.7 E.11 - Brewing the Message Part 2

E.7 E.11 - Brewing the Message Part 2

What does great beer marketing look like when breweries have very different budgets, teams, and resources?


For Part 2 of our Brewing the Message conversation, we’re joined by Lennie Ambrose, CMO of Saint Arnold Brewing Company, and Todd DiMatteo, Owner and Head Brewer of Good Word Brewing and Public House, to talk branding, storytelling, collaboration, and building genuine connections with your community.


From a 30+ year Houston institution to a community-driven Georgia brewery, their approaches may look different, but the fundamentals are surprisingly similar: tell your story, build real relationships, collaborate, and give people a reason to remember who made the beer.

Because you don’t need the biggest marketing budget to build a brand people care about. You need a message worth sharing. 

Aug 26, 202639:47
S.7 E.10 - Brewing the Message Part 1

S.7 E.10 - Brewing the Message Part 1

What would you do differently if someone handed you $100K just for marketing and a team of five people? Now flip the question: How do you market a brewery when your budget is basically nonexistent?


In Part 1 of our two-part Brewing the Message series, host Adri Richey sits down with Kyndall Weir from Weir Beer in California, and Julie Voigt from Birdsview Brewing Company in Washington, to talk about what brewery marketing actually looks like when the marketing team is just one person.


We talk social media, branding, product photography, measuring campaigns, finding your brewery’s personality, and creating an authentic voice that people actually connect with. Because great brewery marketing isn’t just about selling beer.  It’s about telling your story, giving people a reason to remember you, and creating a community that wants to come back.


And apparently, breweries had a LOT to say about this topic. More than 70 breweries reached out when we asked who wanted to join the conversation, so we had no choice: we made two episodes.


Part 2 drops later this week, featuring two more breweries with very different marketing budgets and approaches.

Aug 24, 202640:46
S.7 E.9 - Cannabis Meets Craft: The Rise of Functional Beverages

S.7 E.9 - Cannabis Meets Craft: The Rise of Functional Beverages

THC beverages are changing the beverage industry, and breweries are paying attention.

In this episode of the BrewDeck Podcast, we talk with the teams at Perfectly Dosed and Third Space Brewing about the rise of functional beverages, how THC and CBD drinks are made, why dosing matters, the evolving regulatory landscape, and what breweries should know before entering this growing category.

Whether you're a brewer, beverage producer, or just curious about where the industry is headed, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world experience.

Hit play and join the conversation.

Jul 29, 202641:52
S.7 E.8 - Un Poco Gay: Pride on Tap

S.7 E.8 - Un Poco Gay: Pride on Tap

Made with pride, brewed with purpose.

In the craft beer world, stories matter, especially when they reflect diversity, authenticity, and community.

On this episode of the BrewDeck Podcast, Adri sits down with Dennis Ramey and Osbaldo Hernandez, co-owners of El Sueñito Brewing in Bellingham, WA, to discuss how they've built a brewery rooted in identity, community, and intentional hospitality.  From queer-owned and Mexican immigrant-owned values to beers that tell a story, this conversation is all about creating space where people feel seen.

Because great beer is even better when everyone has a seat at the table.

Jun 23, 202628:45
S.7 E.7: East vs. West - The IPA Divide

S.7 E.7: East vs. West - The IPA Divide

Join us on the BrewDeck Podcast as we dive into the world of IPAs with two legendary guests!

From the West Coast, we have Winslow Sawyer, the founder and owner of Pure Project in sunny San Diego. Discover how he brings sustainability and innovation to every brew.

Representing the East Coast, Geoff Wenzel, Director of Brewing at Industrial Arts Brewing Company in Beacon, NY, shares his expertise on crafting the perfect IPA.

May 29, 202639:42
S.7 E.6 LIVE from CBC 2026

S.7 E.6 LIVE from CBC 2026

The BrewDeck Podcast went live from the CBC 2026 trade show floor in Philadelphia 🍻

 

Across three days, Heather, Brittany, and Matt sat down with:


- Mungo Fawcett (Thomas Fawcett & Sons) and Zack Adams (Fox Farm) to talk heritage malts, Burton ales, and why looking back is driving innovation forward.
- Commercial Sales Manager Patrick Sylvester to discuss the hot steep method, building flavor vocabulary, and making better beer with a $100 setup.
- Chris Hodge (Director of Sales/ Oregon Fruit) to talk real fruit concentrates, taproom innovation, and where beverage trends are heading.

 

To close it out, Brittany and Matt turn the mic on Heather for her final episode after 5 years reflecting on the podcast’s beginnings, standout moments, and the community built along the way.

Apr 28, 202647:05
S.7 E.5 Yeast Side Story: A Fermentation Tale

S.7 E.5 Yeast Side Story: A Fermentation Tale

Yeast isn’t just doing the work, it’s writing the entire flavor story.

In this episode of The BrewDeck Podcast, we get into what yeast is really doing in spirit distillation and why it’s way more than a sugar-to-alcohol machine.

With insights from Denise Jones (Fermentis) and Kevin Kawa (AB Biotek), we break down how fermentation variables shape the final spirit. Temperature, pH, and strain selection aren’t just technical choices, they’re flavor decisions. We also explore how yeast innovation is evolving, from non-traditional strains to new research giving distillers more control across different mash bills. It’s less guesswork, more intention.

The takeaway: the more dialed-in your yeast strategy is, the more distinct your spirit becomes.

Apr 06, 202601:13:01
S.7 E.4 - Big Grain Energy

S.7 E.4 - Big Grain Energy

In celebration of International Women’s Day, this episode highlights the women helping to shape the future of barley and agriculture.


We’re joined by Ashley McFarland, President of the American Malting Barley Association, and Miranda Gibson, third-generation farmer at B & H Farming. Together they discuss barley research, sustainable farming practices, and how collaboration across the supply chain supports both brewers and growers.

From the Baselining Barley Project and government advocacy to on-farm innovations like soil moisture sensors and solar energy, this conversation explores how sustainability, technology, and leadership are helping the barley industry evolve.


If you're a brewer, farmer, craft beer enthusiast, or just looking for stories of leadership, resilience, and breaking new ground, this conversation is for you too.

Mar 10, 202646:03
S.7 E.3 - Cereal Killers, A Lager Episode

S.7 E.3 - Cereal Killers, A Lager Episode

Brittany, Heather and Matt go deep on lagers, adjuncts, and the quiet chaos that makes great beer possible.

We’re talking:

  • Wiseacre Brewing and the art of patience behind Tiny Bomb, a flagship Pilsner that carries half their production (plus a very real bird-in-the-whirlpool moment )
  • Live Oak + Hold Out Brewing teaming up for Spudweiser, a potato-powered lager with award-winning results and a surf-ready spud on the label.
  • Epiphany Craft Malt breaking down rice malting, heirloom grains, and why local ingredients are shaping the future of brewing lagers. 

Hit play for brewing stories, fermentation talk, collaboration magic, and a whole lot of cereal-grain chaos. 

Feb 10, 202654:39
S.7. E.2.-Tiny Bottle, Big Story: Exploring the Magic of Underberg

S.7. E.2.-Tiny Bottle, Big Story: Exploring the Magic of Underberg

In this special mini-sode of the Brew Deck podcast, Heather and Brittany welcome Hubertine Underberg-Ruder, President of the Board of Underberg AG. The episode delves into the rich history of Underberg, a family enterprise known for its herbal digestive, celebrating its 180th anniversary. Hubertine shares insights into the company's legacy, the unique 43, 44, 45, 46 rule, and the importance of maintaining quality and tradition. The discussion also touches on the brand's expansion in North America, the loyalty program, and the creative ways consumers engage with Underberg products.

Jan 20, 202642:21
S.7 E.1 - Brewdeck Wrapped: Top 5

S.7 E.1 - Brewdeck Wrapped: Top 5

We’re kicking off Season 7 of the Brewdeck Podcast by revisiting our most-listened episodes of 2025. In this recap episode, we count down the Top 5 conversations that resonated most with our audience, spanning company history, industry perspectives, inclusion, leadership, and product innovation.

Highlights include:

  • A look back at the founding and growth of Country Malt Group in celebration of its 30th anniversary
  • A Pride Month episode focused on fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging across our global organization
  • A live recording from the American Distilling Institute Conference featuring voices from across the spirits industry
  • Our annual International Women’s Day roundtable spotlighting women in leadership and production roles
  • An inside look at the development and launch of low color wheat and chit malt from Great Western Malting

Tune in as we revisit the moments that defined 2025 and set the stage for Season 7. 🎙️🍻

Jan 06, 202601:20:21
S.6 E.15 - Stalk of the Town, 2025 Barley Outlook

S.6 E.15 - Stalk of the Town, 2025 Barley Outlook

In this episode, we’re joined by Ryan Dodd (Director of Grain, Canada Malting) and Dustin Camphouse (Farm Business Manager, Great Western Malting) for a fast, clear breakdown of the 2025 North American barley crop. We cover crop quality, yields, protein levels, acres planted, and what brewers should anticipate as new crop malt moves into production.

Dec 08, 202549:40
S.6 E.14 - Brewer’s Passport Malt Edition

S.6 E.14 - Brewer’s Passport Malt Edition

Pack your virtual passport!  In this episode, we travel across Europe to chat with three of our iconic malt brands, Castle Malting (Belgium), Tchecomalt (Czech Republic), and Bairds Malt (UK).

Our guests, Mattijs Nuyts, Ondrej Vlasanek, and Richard Broadbent, share the stories behind their malthouses, how each brand has evolved over time, and what makes their regions’ barley and brewing traditions so distinct.

From centuries-old heritage to cutting-edge malting innovations, discover how geography, climate, and craftsmanship shape the malt that fuels breweries around the world.

Nov 04, 202544:43
S.6 E.13 - Live at Drinktec 2025

S.6 E.13 - Live at Drinktec 2025

We’re LIVE from Drinktec 2025!


In September, we crossed the pond to Munich, Germany to take part in Drinktec, the world’s leading trade fair for the beverage and liquid food industry. In this episode, Justine Johnson, our Marketing and Global Events Manager, sits down with CEO Jorge Solis and Chief Growth & Innovation Officer Laurent Debande.


They dive into some exciting topics, including:

Innovative malt applications like malt-based coffee drinks and malt chocolate cookies.

Our sustainability goals for 2030.

The latest advances and innovations in the malt world.

Oct 14, 202529:25
S.6 E.12 - Live at ADI 2025

S.6 E.12 - Live at ADI 2025

We're LIVE from the tradeshow floor at American Distilling Institute 2025 in San Antonio! 

In this episode, we speak to Tim from Ranger Creek about the white dog samples they made for us, Erik Owens from ADI, and Rob Pinson, the liquor lawyer!

Sep 10, 202501:03:23
S.6E.11. - Poured Over Policy - Laws Shaping Craft Beer

S.6E.11. - Poured Over Policy - Laws Shaping Craft Beer

This episode highlights two interviews on legislative advocacy in the U.S. craft brewing industry. To begin we discuss the Brewers Association Hill Climb in Washington, D.C., emphasizing its role in strengthening ties with lawmakers and advancing issues like excise tax credits, research funding, and shipping rules. Then we are joined by Travis Bailey and Adriane Hodges from the Texas Craft Brewers Guild. They share their work on the “Beers for Steers” bill, which would give tax credits to brewers donating spent grain to local farmers. They reflect on the challenges of navigating the legislative process and stress the importance of persistence and engagement for other craft brewing organizations. Overall, both interviews underscore the critical role of advocacy in sustaining and growing the craft beer industry.

Aug 29, 202555:59
S.6 E.10 - The AfterMash

S.6 E.10 - The AfterMash

Featuring: Douglass Miller and Dan Kurzrock.

In this episode, hosts Heather Jerred and Brittany Drennan dig into the creative reuse of spent grain, turning brewery waste into culinary and commercial gold.

Guests Douglass Miller (Cornell University) and Dan Kurzrock (Upcycled Foods) share how this overlooked byproduct is being transformed into flour, baked goods, snack ingredients, and more. From small-batch brewpubs to large-scale upcycling, they explore the nutritional value, processing tips, and sustainability potential of spent grain.

Jul 22, 202536:18
S.6 E.9 - Pour Some Pride On It

S.6 E.9 - Pour Some Pride On It

Featuring: Dyke Beer and The Reflections Project.

This podcast explores mental health in the craft beer industry, featuring Dyke Beer founders on building inclusive queer spaces and Molly Flynn on launching The Reflections Project, a nonprofit for mental health support in hospitality. The episode highlights the unique challenges faced by those in the beer industry, such as burnout and lack of access to mental health services. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the need to destigmatize mental health issues and create more opportunities for open dialogue and mutual support within the craft beer community.


Jun 19, 202543:17
S.6 E.8 - Wheat and Other Good Chit

S.6 E.8 - Wheat and Other Good Chit

Featuring: Definitive Brewing and Great Western Malting.

We’re getting into the weeds – and the wheat – on this episode. Join the team from Great Western Malting and James Bridwell of Definitive Brewing Co. as we break down the story behind two of GWM’s newest innovations: Low Color Wheat Malt and Chit Malt. From product ideation and malting techniques to sensory trials and brewing applications, we cover how these malts are helping shape the future of hazy IPAs and beyond. Whether you're curious about clarity, foam, flavor, or haze; this episode’s packed with good chit.

May 27, 202501:09:52
S.6 E.7 - LIVE from CBC (Mini-Episode #3)

S.6 E.7 - LIVE from CBC (Mini-Episode #3)

We're LIVE from the tradeshow floor at Craft Brewers Conference 2025 in Indianapolis! 

In this episode, we’re playing trivia with attendees on the trade show floor. How much do you know about beer, Indiana, and Indy 500? See if you can beat our guests!


Learn more about our CBC events, activities, and new product launches: ⁠countrymalt.com/cbc

May 01, 202515:16
S.6 E.6 - LIVE from CBC (Mini-Episode #2)

S.6 E.6 - LIVE from CBC (Mini-Episode #2)

We're LIVE from the tradeshow floor at Craft Brewers Conference 2025 in Indianapolis! 

In today's episode, we're joined by Guggman Haus Brewing's husband and wife duo, Derek and Courtney Guggenberger, to discuss our collab beers brewed specially for CBC! 

Learn more about our CBC events, activities, and new product launches: ⁠countrymalt.com/cbc

Apr 30, 202521:52
S.6 E.5 - LIVE from CBC (Mini-Episode #1)

S.6 E.5 - LIVE from CBC (Mini-Episode #1)

We're LIVE from the tradeshow floor at Craft Brewers Conference 2025 in Indianapolis! 

In this episode, we’re having beers with Bart Watson, President and CEO of the Brewers Association. We discuss state of the industry, trends and tariffs.


Learn more about our CBC events, activities, and new product launches: ⁠countrymalt.com/cbc

Apr 29, 202526:25
S.6 E.4 - Grain, Grit & Growth: The CMG Journey

S.6 E.4 - Grain, Grit & Growth: The CMG Journey

30 years. One blue cargo van. A father-son dream that changed the craft beer industry.

In this special episode, we’re sitting down with the founders of Country Malt Group to revisit the humble beginnings and epic evolution of CMG– from a shed in New York to one of the most trusted ingredient suppliers in North America.

Join Bryan and Claude Bechard as they reflect on starting a business together, navigating highs and lows, and building a legacy that’s helped shape the brewing and distilling community for three decades. Plus, hear about their favorite memories, industry trends, and what’s next for CMG as we raise a glass to 30 years of malty milestones.

Apr 21, 202553:45
S.6 E.3 - Barley & Boss Moves

S.6 E.3 - Barley & Boss Moves

Featuring: Great Western Malting, Canada Malting Co., and Country Malt Group.

In this special Women's Month episode, we’re handing the mic to the powerhouse women at our company. They share their career journeys, the challenges they’ve faced in a male-dominated industry, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. From breaking barriers to setting bold new goals, these leaders are paving the way for future generations in malting, brewing, distilling, and beyond.

Tune in as we raise a glass to the women making malt magic happen!

Mar 18, 202553:01
S.6 E.2 - Boot, Scoot & Whiskey

S.6 E.2 - Boot, Scoot & Whiskey

Featuring: Paul Bee Distillery, Arch Ray Resort, Great Heights Brewing.

 

Pull on your boots and saddle up for this first-of-its-kind collab! In this episode, we’re two-steppin’ into the world of craft distilling with Arch Ray Resort and the Pink Boots Society Houston Chapter as we make history—distilling one of the first-ever whiskies using Pink Boots Malt!

At Paul Bee Distillery, head distiller Jerry Elliott and production manager Dustin Cramer teamed up with Houston’s Pink Boots crew to craft a single malt whiskey with a purpose—supporting women and non-binary individuals in brewing and distilling. Guest Abby Hime from Great Heights Brewing shares what Pink Boots Malt means for the industry, while guest special co-host Brittany Drennan keeps the conversation flowing.

Feb 18, 202535:28
S.6 E.1 - It's Giving... Top 10 of 2024

S.6 E.1 - It's Giving... Top 10 of 2024

The BrewDeck Podcast is back and thriving for Season 6! Since 2020, we’ve been spilling the tea (or should we say beer?) on all things brewing, distilling, and malting, keeping the craft beverage world on trend.


To kick off the year, we’re serving a vibe-check on last year’s most iconic episodes. From deep dives into roasted and rye malts, to the non-alcoholic market glow-up and industry-changing convos on diversity and inclusion, these episodes highlight the topics that made waves in 2024. Whether you’re a day-one listener or just tuning in, this countdown is the ultimate rewind.

Jan 28, 202501:29:50
S.5 E.22 - Crop It Like It's Hot: 2024 Harvest Update
Dec 17, 202449:35
S.5 E.21 - Trailblazers in Tradition: Indigenous Craft Beer

S.5 E.21 - Trailblazers in Tradition: Indigenous Craft Beer

Featuring: Bow and Arrow Brewing.

Happy Native American Heritage Month! In this special episode, we’re celebrating the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous people with Bow and Arrow Brewing Co., the first Native American woman-owned brewery in the U.S., based in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

We sit down with founder Shyla Sheppard and head brewer Samuel Arredondo to explore how they honor their heritage through innovative brewing and carefully chosen ingredients. They share the story behind their impactful Native Land Beer Project, now in its fourth year, which has raised over $110,000 for Native nonprofits. This collaborative effort uplifts causes like ecological stewardship, access to ancestral lands, and the revitalization of traditional agriculture and food ways.

Nov 12, 202453:30
S.5 E.20 - Game of Tones: Roasted Malt Edition

S.5 E.20 - Game of Tones: Roasted Malt Edition

Featuring: Crooked Hammock Brewery.

In this special episode, we dive deep into the dark and complex world of Roasted Malts, exploring the role these bold ingredients play in crafting the finest beers. Our special guests Larry Horwitz of Crooked Hammock and Tim Roberts regale us with tales of their journeys through the malt-y realms.

 

We learn how these roasted wonders can lend bitterness, astringency, and a touch of that "Burnt" essence to your brews, much like the dragon fire of Westeros. As we venture further, we uncover the secrets of water chemistry, yeast selection, and hop pairings - the keys to mastering the delicate balance required to tame these roasted malts. So saddle up, brave listeners, for a journey beyond the wall of flavor limitations. For when you play the Game of Tones, you win... or you brew.

Oct 22, 202401:02:16
S.5 E.19 - Don't Cry Over Spilled Beer

S.5 E.19 - Don't Cry Over Spilled Beer

Featuring: Comrade Brewing Company.

What happens when a truck crashes into your facility and collides with your active brewing tanks? Well, don't cry over spilled beer! This episode, we talk to David Lin from Comrade Brewing in Colorado about making the most of bad experiences and turning shitty situations into good marketing. Buckle up for his wild story and how they came out on top! David also shares his advice for maintaining a positive outlook and ways to find a silver-lining (or gold-medal-winning-lining!)

Sep 17, 202443:06
S.5 E.18 - Beauty and the Yeast

S.5 E.18 - Beauty and the Yeast

Featuring: Lallemand and AB Biotek.

It's the American Distilling Institute's 2024 Craft Spirits Conference this week in Baltimore and we're celebrating distilling here on The BrewDeck Podcast! We're joined by our resident distilling experts, Geoff Fischer and Chris Lovett, to dive into yeast options for distilling, the difference between yeast strains, and how they can be used for different types of spirits. They call upon leaders in the industry - Mitch Codd from Lallemand (1:40) and Kevin Kawa from AB Biotek (32:00) - to discuss the use of enzymes in fermentation and the ability to create unique flavors through fermentation. Join us as we delve into the exciting innovations in the distilling industry, on this whiskey-swirling special episode!

Aug 27, 202456:56
S.5 E.17 - Certified Wheat, Seven Days a Week

S.5 E.17 - Certified Wheat, Seven Days a Week

Featuring: the Country Malt Group team.

So we wheat again! In this episode, we're joined by our friends – Patrick Sylvester, Territory Manager, and Abi Conner, Product Manager – to discuss the wild world of wheat. They talk us through the use of wheat in brewing, its global production, different types of wheat products, considerations for brewers using wheat, and their favorite beers that use wheat. With an extensive wheat product portfolio, wheat are you waiting for? Give it a listen!

Aug 13, 202435:16
S.5 E.16 - Best of the Fest: Barrel & Flow

S.5 E.16 - Best of the Fest: Barrel & Flow

Featuring: Barrel & Flow Fest.

In this episode, we're taking a deep dive into the #1 Brew Fest in America: Barrel & Flow Fest! We're joined by Day Bracey, founder of Barrel and Flow, to discuss how they connect opportunity, accessibility, and artistry in ways that celebrate and empower the Black community. We explore the importance of creating an inclusive and safe environment and their festival's code of conduct. We also delve into the challenges faced by artists and staff in the brewing and entertainment industries, emphasizing the need for fair pay and transparency. Don't miss this engaging discussion on the intersection of beer, art, and inclusivity.


Psst! Tickets are on sale for Barrel & Flow, August 9-11 in Pittsburgh. BrewDeck listeners can use special code "brewdeck10" for 10% off tickets! Cheers!

Jul 30, 202444:01
S.5 E.15 - Super Fruit

S.5 E.15 - Super Fruit

Featuring: Oregon Fruit Co. and new fruit concentrates coming soon.

In this fruity and fun episode, we're joined by industry experts Chris Hodge from Oregon Fruit and Tyson Jones to discuss the delicious world of fruit additions in beer and other craft beverages. They dive into the art of using fruit purees vs. concentrates, explore the wide range of flavors and possibilities available, and share their personal experiences and recommendations. From citrus to berries, stone fruits to blends; they cover it all. So grab a cold one and join them as they peel back the layers and get fresh and fruity in this juicy episode. Don't miss out on the puns and laughter along the way!

Jul 16, 202401:07:10
S.5 E.14 - No Beer Left Behind

S.5 E.14 - No Beer Left Behind

Featuring: a debate of the most underrated beer styles with the CMG team.


In this episode, Heather and Cheyenne are joined by their colleagues Brittany, Matt, and Sydney to discuss their favorite "underrated" beer styles. Matt chooses the grisette, a lighter version of a saison, which he describes as a versatile style that allows brewers to experiment with different adjuncts and seasonal ingredients. Sydney picks the milk stout, highlighting its smooth and creamy flavor, as well as its historical reputation as a "healthy" beer. Brittany selects the black IPA, noting its perfect combination of maltiness and hoppiness. What do you think is the most underrated beer style? The crew engages in a friendly debate, which showcases the diversity and creativity within the world of beer styles!

Jul 02, 202433:08
S.5 E.13 - Here We Grow
Jun 18, 202401:08:02
S.5 E.12 - Ale Are Welcome Here

S.5 E.12 - Ale Are Welcome Here

Featuring: Lady Justice Brewing and Beer is for Everyone.

We're celebrating Pride Month with Betsy Lay, co-founder and owner of Lady Justice Brewing, and Lindsay Malu Kido, founder and executive director of Beer is for Everyone. We discuss their commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the craft brewing industry, their Pride events, the importance of representation and the small but meaningful ways it can make a difference. We also share our personal experiences with the organizations and the impact they have had. 


Psst! Did you hear about our Pride Month giveaway? Order the Pink Boots Malt between June 1-30 to be automatically entered to win a Bountiful Bag, filled with goodies from our favorite DEI-focused companies!

Jun 04, 202401:14:10
S.5 E.11 - Everything But The Barrel

S.5 E.11 - Everything But The Barrel

Featuring: Aroma Sciences and Lagunitas.

The latest innovation in aroma technology is here, and in this episode we're discussing the best of barrel-aging, but without the barrel... or aging! (3:09) We have the pleasure of chatting with Ian Ward and Marc Worona, from Aroma Sciences, about their brand-new natural extracts that add authentic oak profiles to your beverages without requiring the barrel age process. Not only are their extracts easy to use and cost-effective, they'll also save you time and eliminate losses. The Aroma Sciences Heartwood™ line of oak aromatic extracts can be used to improve balance, perceived quality, and boost oak aromatics in beer, wine, ciders, seltzers, traditional and reduced proof spirits, and non-alcoholic beers, wines, RTD’s or mocktails.

But don't just take their word for it! (38:08) Jeremy Marshall from Lagunitas Brewing stops by to tell us about their experiences using Aroma Sciences in their Dark and Oaky, what their customers have to say about the beer, and what they might try next with the extracts.

May 22, 202457:04
S.5 E.10 - Be Kind to Your Mind

S.5 E.10 - Be Kind to Your Mind

Featuring: Infinite Ingredient.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we're joined by Katie Muggli, Founder and Executive Director of Infinite Ingredient. Infinite Ingredient is a non-profit whose mission is to actively support the mental and physical well-being of individuals working in the craft beverage industry through outreach, education, and access to resources. They are dedicated to creating a healthier, more sustainable future in which individuals who work in the craft beverage industry may be supported fully and wholly as human beings. Together, we take a hard look at burnout in the industry and the main issues affecting people's mental health. Katie shares their resources and how they can help you and those you care about!


*If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988, or chat online at 988lifeline.org. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States and Canada.

May 07, 202446:09
S.5 E.9 - LIVE from CBC (Mini-Episode #3)
Apr 24, 202423:29
S.5 E.8 - LIVE from CBC (Mini-Episode #2)
Apr 23, 202419:15
S.5 E.7 - LIVE from CBC (Mini-Episode #1)
Apr 22, 202422:11
S.5 E.6 - This is Rye Malt, Ain't No Barley

S.5 E.6 - This is Rye Malt, Ain't No Barley

Featuring: Terrapin Beer Co. and Canada Malting Co.

Ryes and shine! We're exploring the intricacies of Rye Malt for brewers and distillers on this episode. (4:12) First, we're joined by Brian “Spike” Buckowski, Founder and VP of Brewing Development at Terrapin Beer Co. in Athens, Georgia. Spike tells us about their very first beer - a Rye Pale Ale, and the history of how it was discontinued, then brought back as a fan favorite. We discuss finding the perfect rye malt percentage and other challenges of brewing with rye. (26:54) Then, our resident-distilling expert, Geoff Fischer, stops by to address what rye looks like in the distilling world. What is American Rye Whiskey and what are the differences of distilling with rye versus other types of grains? (42:50) Finally, we close it out with Mac Remington, Canada Malting Co.'s Production Supervisor. From a maltster's insights, Mac shares how malting rye contrasts from barley throughout the malting process as well as the best varieties for rye malt.

Apr 09, 202401:04:12
S.5 E.5 - Revolutionary Women: They're Everything, He's Just Ken.

S.5 E.5 - Revolutionary Women: They're Everything, He's Just Ken.

Featuring: Borderlands Brewing, Las Hermanas Project, and Hop Forward Society.

Our Women's History Month celebrations continue! In this episode, Heather and Cheyenne are speaking with revolutionary women in the industry. (2:04) First, we're joined by Ayla Kapahi and Savanna Saldate from Borderlands Brewing Company in Tucson, Arizona. Ayla and Savanna started the "Las Hermanas" project, a bi-national all-women collaboration brew. It features one brew day in Arizona and another in Mexico, plus educational workshops for attendees. What's next for Las Hermanas? Could a third country be in the future? (Asking for a Canadian friend!) Listen to learn more. (22:24) Then, Sharon Ruyter and Erin McQuitty stop by from the Hop Forward Society. Their goal is to diversify the Alberta craft beer industry by reducing the barriers that exist. The Hop Forward Society is focused on creating and building opportunities for underrepresented groups within the craft beer industry, and helping develop safe spaces for people to work, gather, and socialize. Sharon and Erin share some of the things they've done and the grants they offer. 

Mar 26, 202443:39
S.5 E.4 - Pink Boots Malt
Mar 12, 202426:48
S.5 E.3 - Black History Month

S.5 E.3 - Black History Month

Featuring Mascot Brewery and the Brewing Change Collaborative.

In this episode, we're celebrating Black History Month with Aaron Prothro, founder of Mascot Brewery in Ontario, and the Brewing Change Collaborative in Minnesota. (1:10) As one of Canada's only black-owned breweries, Aaron tells us about the challenges he's faced in the craft beer industry and how he works to empower other black entrepreneurs. (25:24) Then, we're honored to be joined by Elle Rhodes, Shaunté Douglas, and Bri Smith from the Brewing Change Collaborative. The BCC is an organization that works to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion for people of color in the brewing and beverage industries through advocacy, outreach, and education.

Feb 13, 202455:31
S.5 E.2 - No Alcohol, No Problem

S.5 E.2 - No Alcohol, No Problem

Featuring: Abita Brewing and False Idol Brewing.

In honor of Dry January, we're talking about why it's more important than ever before to have non-alcoholic options on your menu. The team kicks it off with an overview of the non-alcoholic market, the growth of NA beers, and their predictions for the next hot NA beverage. (17:27) We're joined by Product Manager, Abi Conner, to "Ask Abi" which products she recommends for low- and no-alcohol beverages. (23:56) Then we shake things up with Mark Wilson from Abita Brewing. Mark tells us all about how they got into producing a craft soda line and hop waters. (50:29) After that, William Perry from False Idol Brewing stops by to tell us about their terpene sparkling botanical waters. What are terpenes and how is terpene water made? William shares how they got into making these and building a customer base for it.

Jan 30, 202401:12:18
S.5 E.1 - The Crushie Era: Best of 2023

S.5 E.1 - The Crushie Era: Best of 2023

Happy New Year! We're kicking off our fifth season of the BrewDeck Podcast with our annual "Best of" episode, where we count down your favorite episodes from the previous year. In this episode, Toby, Heather, Cheyenne, and Adam reflect on our ~crushie era~ after winning Best Beer Podcast at the Craft Beer Marketing Awards. The team also shares some sneak peeks of what you can expect this year and exciting things to look forward to.

Did your favorite episode make our Top 10 list? Listen to find out!

Jan 16, 202401:02:33
S.4 E.28 - Why You Should Give a Crop: 2023 Harvest Update

S.4 E.28 - Why You Should Give a Crop: 2023 Harvest Update

We're continuing our year-end updates on this year’s crop harvests, and what you can expect next year. Today, we're sitting down with some of our favorite folks; your CMG Territory Managers! Jon Mendrick, Tim Burke, Tony Little, and Matt Chalmers join us on the brew deck to talk about the 2023 barley harvest in both Canada and the US. What are some challenges of growing malting barley over other cereal crops? What are the benefits of having two harvests and what do maltsters do to ensure stable quality? What's important to look for on a COA and how do you read it? Then Abi Conner joins us for our last Ask Abi of the year to recap all the exciting new products we rolled out this year and tease what you can look forward to next year.


Thanks for joining us for an incredible 4th season and helping us win Best Beer Podcast at the Craft Beer Marketing Awards earlier this year! We'll be back in mid-January for Season 5!

Dec 12, 202301:09:32