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It Starts With Beer

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All the best conversations start with beer and go somewhere else.

It Starts With Beer

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Beer writer and podcaster David Nilsen

Writer David Nilsen discusses his approach to creating imagery and transporting the reader in ep 54. Nilsen is also the host of Bean to Barstool, a podcast that delves into the worlds of beer and craft chocolate. We talk about some of David's favorite pieces, how the act of sharing a beer or a meal can offer new opportunities to learn about others' experiences, and why Bell's Two Hearted IPA is so amazing. This episode is sponsored by Brass Works Brewing of Waterbury, Conn. Please subscribe to It Starts With Beer and tell a friend about the podcast. Cheers!

Tara Nurin: A Woman‘s Place? The Brewhouse!

Author Tara Nurin returns in Ep 53 to talk about her new book, A Woman's Place Is In the Brewhouse (Chicago Review Press). I urge you to order this book. While you wait, listen to our conversation about the roles of women in the brewing world from prehistory to the present. You can follow Tara at @taranurin on Twitter, and check out her website: www.eyesontheworld.us. This episode is sponsored by Brass Works Brewing in Waterbury, Connecticut. Please tell others about this podcast, if you like it. You can get in touch with me via email at beer.snob@yahoo.com, and follow me on Instagram and Twitter: @beersnobwrites.

The Continuing Saga of Hanging Hills

Here's an episode for anyone interested in the risky side of owning a brewery. In Ep 52, I sit down with Joe Ploof, owner of Hanging Hills Brewing, which nearly died a tragic death after closing its tasting room doors in Hartford, Conn. It's now in a second life, contract brewing at East Rock Brewing in New Haven, Conn. In this episode we talk about the problems that Hanging Hills faced, how COVID nearly struck a fatal blow to the company, and the resurrection of a brand. Thanks for listening, and tell a friend or 6 about It Starts With Beer. Contact host and producer Will Siss: beer.snob@yahoo.com, and follow him on Instagram and Twitter: @beersnobwrites.

Brewing local with Stan Hieronymus

In ep 51, I had the privilege of talking to a giant in beer publishing. Stan Hieronymus has the rare ability to write for the casual and intensely informed reader. We focused primarily on the topic of using local ingredients in beer, as I recently read his 2016 book "Brewing Local: American-Grown Beer" (Brewers Publications). We veer off into how a recent love of the sweet in beer squares with tradition, and the commitment it takes to incorporate local ingredients like roots, mushrooms, honey, and spelt. This episode is sponsored by Back East Brewing in Bloomfield, Connecticut. Background music courtesy of Pixabay.

Instagram educators Em Sauter and Proper_Josh

Ep 50 (woo!) focuses on learning about beer from an unlikely place. As much as I enjoy scrolling through Instagram, it's primarily a fun factory of nonsense. However, Em Sauter (@pintsandpanels) and Proper_Josh (@proper_josh) make it a bit more educational. Em creates cartoons and Josh makes tasting videos and they both delve into beer from angles that are both informed yet fun. (You can see more of Em's work at www.pintsandpanels.com.) Join me for the Afterparty, where I discuss Brass Works Brewing's Mango Habanero Fowl'd Up IPA. This episode is sponsored by Back East Brewing. Music is from Pixabay. Please share this episode with a friend if you like it, subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, and consider giving me a high rating wherever you listen. Thanks!

Barb Baker, Siren of Stout

It was a delight speaking with Barb Baker for episode 49. Known as the Siren of Stout, this Michigan-based beer blogger works with Fermenta, an organization that raises money to help women achieve more in the fermented arts, including brewing. She's partnered up with others to create her own pastry stout and honey wine, and she's always promoting others and passing along information on her Instagram account (@sirenofstout). We talk about the poise and confidence it takes to be an African-American woman in beer and her experience as a model, car show host, and actress. She's insightful and inspiring. This episode is brought to you by the good people at Back East Brewing in Bloomfield, Conn. The Afterparty beer is Abel Coconut Vanilla Porter from Brass Works Brewing in Waterbury, Conn. Background music is courtesy of Pixabay. Photo by Darrel Ellis for SeenTheMagazine.com.

Old Dad, New Baby, and Low-ABV Beer

In ep 48, I confront the complicated feelings that low and no alcohol beer bring out in my rapidly aging body. Like this episode, I am also 48, and I have a toddler. To make sense of my new love of low-ABV beer without giving up my tiny amount of cool cred, I turned to experts and trusted friends: Good Beer Hunting reporter Kate Bernot, Bottle Stop beer buyer Kevin Thomas, Athletic Brewing brewer John Walker, and all-around nice guy Art Hendrickson Jr. This is my first "narrative" episode and was a labor of love. It's not a straight interview, but a story told with many voices. I did the editing and even the music myself, with some help from Pixabay. Speaking of music, during the Afterparty, I spin the single "Strangers" by Coleus, so stick around for that. This episode is sponsored by Brass Works Brewing in Waterbury, Connecticut.

Cooking and baking with The Beeroness, Jackie Dodd Mallory

In ep 47, I chat with author and recipe creator Jackie Dodd Mallory, known as The Beeroness. She makes baking and cooking with beer seem easy and fun and she teaches me some valuable basics on when and how to use beer as an ingredient, the importance of yeast, why brown ale is like a bass player, how to take better beer photographs, and more. Stay for the Afterparty, when I talk about the past and future of this nearly 1-year-old podcast. This episode is sponsored by Back East Brewing of Bloomfield, Connecticut. You can learn more about Jackie at her website: www.thebeeroness.com. Music: “Dreamy Day” by Caffeine Creek Band and “Summertime” by JuliusH (royalty-free from Pixabay.com/music), and a snippet from “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” performed by Ella Fitzgerald Please follow, rate, and recommend It Starts With Beer podcast.

Counter Weight Brewing's Matt Westfall

In ep 46, we meet Matt Westfall, founder of the award-winning Counter Weight Brewing Company of Hamden, Connecticut. We discuss how he branched out on his own after 9 years with iconic New England Brewing Company, what it’s like to weather COVID-19 restrictions, and how he’s planning to build a new brewery. During the Afterparty, I discuss the recent draconian Connecticut Consumer Protection mandate that forces breweries to essentially become brewpubs or face hefty fines. And we listen to the Afterparty track: “Songbird” by Jason Ingriselli and The Miles North Band. This episode is sponsored by Brass Works Brewing of Waterbury, Connecticut. You can find more episodes at beersnobwrites.com/podcast, and you can email me at beer.snob@yahoo.com. Background music: Intro: “Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy” by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, performed by the Apollo Symphony Orchestra Outro: “Cali” Wataboi, from Pixabay.com/music

The 16oz. Canvas Podcast host AJ Keirans

In ep 45, we meet AJ Keirans, who hosts a podcast that features the artists behind the beer. The 16oz. Canvas Podcast delves into the artist's role in creating a label's look and impact. I take AJ into another virtual pub; this one is designed like a giant museum that features beer art only. We talk about the process of creating beauty that most likely will end up in a recycling heap and why that matters in the ecosystem that is craft beer. This ep is sponsored by Back East Brewing of Bloomfield, Connecticut. Stay for the Afterparty Track after the interview, where I feature Shane Scarazzini and Eightfingers and their song, "West Virginia Girl." Featured labels: [Super Mantis IPA - Nod Hill Brewing - Artist: Brian Steely [Resting My Greatness Stout - Short Throw Brewing - Artist: Ryan Adams [Toxic Earth IPA - Abomination Brewing - Artist: Sam Heimer [Remedy stout - Houstatonic Brewing - Artist: Magge Gagliardi Background: [Music: Pixabay: “U said it” by Wataboi and “Midnight” by JuliusH [Effects: Zapsplat

South African beer with writer Lucy Corne

In ep 44, we travel to South Africa -- Capetown, to be specific -- and meet travel and beer writer Lucy Corne. We discuss South African beer history and present, what life as a travel writer is like in the time of COVID, and how exactly to pronounce a traditional drink spelled “Umqombothi.” You can follow Lucy on Twitter: @LucyCorne. This episode was sponsored by Brass Works Brewing, Waterbury, Conn. Read Corne’s article from Good Beer Hunting: Embracing Tradition--To Create a Style for the Future, South African Brewers Look to the Past Check out the magazine she edits about South African beer, On Tap. The Afterparty track is by Robert C. Fullerton, used with permission. Support his music on places like Bandcamp, Amazon, and Apple Music. Background music from Free Music For, featuring Bossa Nova mix.

'Beer With Strangers' Host Tony Russo

In ep 43, I got a chance to chat with experienced podcaster, writer, and fellow New Jersey native Tony Russo. We talked about his excellent podcast, Beer With Strangers, and his ventures into podcasts about veterans, writers, and true crime. We chatted in the virtual, "Pub Strange." You can follow Tony on Twitter: @ByTonyRusso. Music: "Rock Angel" by Joakim Karud

Writer Tara Nurin

In ep 42, I had the privilege to talk to Tara Nurin, an independent journalist who writes for Forbes and other publications. We talked about her book about the role women have played in the history of brewing, set for publication by the Chicago Review Press in the fall of 2021. We also discussed the world of beer writing, and I got some highlights of her intriguing career. Tara is also a speaker and has great upcoming events, so if you’d like to sign up, here are some links: Virtual Beer Tasting Class: https://bonbeer.com/tasting-classes/ Craft Beverage Expo Forum: https://www.craftbeverageexpo.com/ Craft Beer Professionals Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/5182876978396534 This episode was sponsored by Labyrinth Brewing in Manchester, Connecticut. Background music: “Dreams” by Joaquim Kanud, “Bossa Nova Mix” by FreeSound Music, both copyright free.

Firefly Hollow Brewing: Chat and tasting

For episode 41 I hung out on location with Dana Bourque and Justin Dawley of Firefly Hollow Brewing on their beautiful loading dock in Bristol, Connecticut. We chatted about the brewery’s history, what makes their beer stand out, and how they fit into the overall landscape of Connecticut and American beer. I also got to sample several of their beers and you can join me on my flight of fancy. This episode is sponsored by Labyrinth Brewing of Manchester, Connecticut. Send any correspondence to beer.snob@yahoo.com. Background music: “& Kites” by Kavi and “I Can’t Get Started” by Bud Powell

'Beer and Racism' coauthor Nathaniel Chapman

In ep 40, cohost Jamal Robinson and I interviewed Nathaniel Chapman, a professor of sociology and co-author of “Beer and Racism: How Beer Became White, Why It Matters, and the Movements to Change It.” Chapman said that he and his co-author David L. Brunsma have faced backlash for the book, including death threats, from parts of the web well known for white supremacists. We discuss why he wrote it, what it uncovered, and how we can overcome white fragility and make some honest change in the beer industry when it comes to diversity. This episode is sponsored by Labyrinth Brewing in Manchester, Connecticut. Mentioned in this episode: Ale Sharpton, Craft Crew, NEBCO, and the Chicago Newseum. Background music: “Misha, Monma” by Spiral, “Cafe Music from BGM Channel.”

Julia Herz, beer educator and consultant

Julia Herz has shaped the rise of American craft beer for over 10 years, primarily as the program director of the Brewers Association. In episode 39, this author/speaker/educator/consultant talks about how the beer scene has changed since she joined the association and how being laid off in June has shifted her focus, prompting a vision quest. After the interview is the Afterparty, when I talk about joining the Hopped Up Network.. Background music: “Encounter with a Mech Patrol Unit” by Ibrahim, “Roundabout” by The Jaguars, and “Uh Oh” by The Imps. Photo: Brewers Association

Beer quality expert Mary Pellettieri

What do breweries need to do to ensure quality? My guest Mary Pellettieri in ep 38 of It Starts With Beer knows. Join special cohost Chris Sayer of Brewery Legitimus and I for an informative conversation that covers material from her book, "Quality Management," advice for small breweries, and gems of wisdom from Mary, who has taught at the Siebel Institute; worked with Goose Island, Miller, and many other breweries; and written extensively on many beer quality topics. Background music: “Lofi Hiphop Mix 2020” and “Piano Bar: Smooth Jazz Club at Midnight Buddha Café”

Athletic Brewing's John Walker

How do you feel about non-alcoholic beer? Why do folks drink it and why is becoming more popular? In ep 37, we meet John Walker, the head brewer at Athletic Brewing Company of Stratford, Connecticut. He explains why his beer tastes unlike any other n/a beer on the market and talks about his journey from New England restaurant kid to Western U.S. blacksmith to seeing his beer being distributed all over the country. This episode is sponsored by Brass Works Brewing in Waterbury, Connecticut. Background Music: “Lullaby” by Joakim Karud, “Joan’s Red Dress” by David Luong

Artist Kat Manning

In episode 36, we meet Kat Manning, the marketing director for the Connecticut Brewers Guild, a photographer with her own Hello Studio, and a label designer for Connecticut breweries. We talk about what makes for effective marketing for breweries online and on cans, how she brings her design aesthetic to breweries like Armada Brewing, Marlowe Ales, and Alvarium Beer. This episode is sponsored by Nod Hill Brewery in Ridgefield, Connecticut. Copyright free background music: “Rock Angel” by Joakim Karud, “Not Too Cray” by Huma-Huma, and “The Lounge” by bensound.com. Reach out to me at beer.snob@yahoo.com.

In ep 35, we meet the Craft Crew: James, Jamel, and Antron, who are determined to "widen the demographic" and introduce beer to Black and Latinx drinkers in Connecticut while supporting minority-owned businesses and organizations. They brew, they throw mixers, they make review videos, and they are a lot of fun to hang out with. Episode 35 is sponsored by Nod Hill Brewery of Ridgefield, Connecticut and Brass Works Brewing of Waterbury, Connecticut Mentioned: Blue Moon, Knee Deep Brewing, Samuel Adams, Tree House, NE Video, Unknown Clothing (New Britain), Fishy Tails, My Wife Didn’t Cook, Hog River Brewing, Hanging Hills Brewing, Jamal Robinson, Beer Kulture, New England Brewing Company, 16 Ounce Canvas podcast, The Hops Company, "This Ain’t the Beer That You’re Used To" by Dom "Doochie" Cook, The Sampler in Brooklyn,, Rhythm Brewing, Lady Lager, Urban League of Greater Hartford, and more. Music: “The Craft Crew Show” theme song by Born(IE), produced by GovMag. Reach out! I…

Allan Heida of I Know Nothing About Beer Podcast

Ep 34: Allan Heida is a busy guy, what with his I Know Nothing About Beer podcast and Dad Domesticus, a look at the Stay At Home Dad (SAHD) life on YouTube. We talk about beer in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, how best to take a kid to a brewery, and why he’s still hopeful. You can follow him as @AlTheBrewer on Instagram and Twitter. This episode is sponsored by Nod Hill Brewery of Ridgefield, Connecticut. Music in episode: Chill Lo-Fi Hip Hop Mix, “Coast to Coast” by Ducks Deluxe, “I Can Tell” by Dr. Feelgood, “Laid Off” by Cyanide Pills, “One Je Ta” by Optimal Problem, “Mr. Bartender” by Lew Lewis & Reformer, “Get Out of Denver” by Eddie & the Hotrods, “War Zone” by the Vibrators, “No No No” by T.U.S.H., and “Sally’s Dream” from the Lewis Luong Relaxation Cafe.

Beer Talk Now Podcast's Daryl Neal

Daryl Neal is the insightful host of Beer Talk Now who knows his Bay Area beer. In episode 33, I talk to D. Neal about the beer scene in and around the 'Sco, why pilsners are great, the myth of racial harmony in Northern California and more. Join us in my virtual creation -- The Bay Area Pub -- then stay for the Afterparty. This episode is sponsored by Back East Brewing in Bloomfield, Connecticut. Discussed in the ep: East Brother Beer, Counterweight Brewing Company, Oakland United Beer Works, E-40, and more!

Package store life with Bottle Stop's Girish and Kevin

In ep 32 we get to hear about life behind the counter at the liquor store, or as we in New England call them, package stores. Girish Patel and Kevin Thomas of Bottle Stop in Torrington, Conn., are our guides. My on-site interview includes a tasting of Alvarium Beer Company and Firefly Hollow Brewing beer. Don’t forget to hang out at the Afterparty following the on-site interview. This episode is sponsored by Back East Brewing of Bloomfield, Connecticut. Intro music: “Heat It Up” by Willy Georgia. Background music: “Good for Nothing” by Otis McDonald, “Wet Martini”. Subscribe to and rate It Starts With Beer podcast on your favorite platform app, please. For comments or advertising rates, email beer.snob@yahoo.com.

Pilsner with author Tom Acitelli

Ep 31: Tom Acitelli has a lot of experience in writing about alcohol, and when it comes to writing about beer, he’s one of the best. His recent book, “Pilsner,” (Chicago Review Press) is an informative, entertaining look at how this style of beer interacted with history and dominated the world. Enjoy my interview with Tom and then stick around for the Afterparty. Episode sponsored by Back East Brewing. Intro music: “Heat It Up” by Will & the George Background music: “German Music and German Folk Music,” “Manhattan Sky” Questions? Comments? Just want to unburden yourself? Email me at beer.snob@yahoo.com.

Farm Brewing with Barry Labendz of Kent Falls

Ep 30! Interested in farm breweries and farmhouse ale? Enjoy my talk with Barry Labendz, co-founder of Kent Falls Brewing in Kent, Connecticut, which in 2015 opened as the first modern farm brewery in the state. Barry and his team started out with a farmhouse beer focus, and Barry and I talk about just what that means. We talk about his dedication to local ingredients, from the hops that come from their own farm and nearby Smokedown Farm (subject of ISWB Ep 29), to the grain that comes from local maltsters. When you’re done listening, get reading some of Barry's recommendations for books that focus on food and the food cycle: * Third Plate by Dan Barber * Taste of Place by Amy B. Trubek * Hungry City by Carolyn Steel Stay tuned after the interview for The Afterparty. This episode was sponsored by Back East Brewing in Bloomfield, Conn. Intro music: “Heat It Up” by The Will-George Experience Background music: “Picking Banjo,” “Action People #9,” and “Action P…

Hops! With Ally Hughes and James Shepherd of Smokedown Farm

It’s almost hop harvesting time, so in ep 29 learn about hop growing from those who get their hands dirty in this episode, featuring Dr. James Shepherd, owner of Smokedown Farm in Sharon, Connecticut, and farm manager Ally Hughes. Shepherd -- an epidemiologist on the front lines of dealing with COVID-19 -- provides some unexpected insight into the connection between virus control and hops, and Hughes discusses how their hops make local beers extra special. This episode is sponsored by Back East Brewing in Bloomfield, Connecticut. Opening/closing music: “Heat It Up” by Will and George Background music: “Eternal Flame” by Lahar

Phantom Brewing's Jon Patrei

Ep 28: Phantom Brewing in Hartford, Connecticut, opened in April of this tumultuous year. My guest Jon Patrei and his business partner Bo Kolcio previously ran Beer & Wine Makers Warehouse, and continue to run a similar enterprise in their brewery. Jon and I talk about his background in beer and how opening during a pandemic works when you are prepared and make wise decisions. Information on the Phantom Ship in the intro comes from “The Ghost Ship of New Haven Sets Sail Shrouded in Mystery” by Michael Hoberman, from ConnecticutHistory.org. Background music: "Chill Lo-fi Hip-Hop Mix [No Copyright]." This episode was sponsored by Back East Brewing and Witchdoctor Brewing. [Aired 8/4/2020]

Author and historian Gregg Smith

Ep 27: In this special history episode, author/historian Gregg Smith discusses topics including taverns during the colonial era, his favorite early brewery stories, the history of beer advertising, the hard life of a brewer in the early 20th century, historical methods, Prohibition, the role of women in beer history, and more. Warning: You will learn something! His books are available on Amazon and BrewersPublications.com. This episode is sponsored by Back East Brewing, Brewery Legitimus, and Little Red Barn Brewers. For more episodes, go to beersnobwrites.com/podcast.

The hosts of 512 Brewed podcast

Ep 26: In their 512 Brewed podcast, Melanie Demi and Caitlin Johnson entertain and inform. Based in Austin, Texas (with its 512 area code), these media-savvy beer lovers bring a fun, well-researched approach to beer styles, beer tasting, and a bunch of other beer-adjacent topics. In this episode we step into my shoddily created hologram world, the latest virtual pub that I've called "The Great Outdoors." We talk podcasting, Austin beer, and get served by a lion. In other words, we keep it weird. I invite you to listen to 512 Brewed, and check out the hosts' blogs: Melanie's Three Dogs One Bar and Caitlin's Big World, Small Girl. Thanks for listening to It Starts With Beer. Please follow and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. You can support this podcast by dropping a Venmo tip for william-siss. My website is beersnobwrites.com.

Jamal Robinson of New England Brewing

Ep 25: When Jamal Robinson, director of sales at New England Brewing of Woodbridge, Conn., put up some simple videos in his greenhouse in June, he was doing more than letting off some steam about race relations in America. He was setting down some wisdom that I couldn't get out of my head. In this episode, Jamal talks about his career in beer, how he's dealt with racism, and what a brewery can do to affect change. To watch Jamal's videos, check them out on his YouTube channel linked here. You can follow him on Instagram at @nebcojammy. Follow "It Starts With Beer" on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podbean, or wherever you find podcasts!

Beer writer Jay C. Williams

Ep 24: Writer Jay C. Williams is Connecticut-based with a background in copywriting. His love of beer has propelled him into freelance opportunities, including writing for Wine Enthusiast, Cuisine Noir, October, and other publications. Listen in as we talk writing for multiple audiences, the expanding "beer scene," and Williams' straight-edge punk past. Here are some links to Jay's work: October, Cuisine Noir, Wine Enthusiast. Background music from Saiki Beats and Relax Music Meditation. Follow "It Starts With Beer" on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podbean, or wherever you find podcasts!

Rhythm Brewing's Alisa Bowens-Mercado

Ep 23: Alisa Bowens-Mercado is used to stepping into unfamiliar territory with confidence and a twist. The owner of Rhythm Brewing -- which is based in New Haven, Conn., but has its lagers brewed at Black Hog Brewing in Oxford, Conn. -- is also the owner of a Latin dance studio. As an African-American woman in a largely white, male beer industry Alisa has decided to focus on quality first, to go along with inclusion. Enjoy our conversation from June 11, in which Alisa (aka Lady Lager) describes her passion for beer and shares thoughts about race in America and how beer can bring people together. Music featured: "Fantasy" by 3D Rhythm of Life Learn more about Rhythm Brewing at www.rhythmbrewingco.com. Follow "It Starts With Beer" on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podbean, or wherever you find podcasts!

Back East Brewing's Tony Karlowicz

Ep 22: I've been a fan of Back East Brewing in Bloomfield, Connecticut, ever since they opened back in 2012, which in Connecticut craft beer years might as well have been the Middle Ages. I'm what's known as a superfan of Back East Porter, so you can understand how happy I was to have Tony Karlowicz on as a guest. Tony is the co-owner of Back East Brewing and we talked about how his brewery is weathering COVID and looking to the future, plus we play The Lightning Round. Please feel free to give me a Venmo tip: search for william-siss. I also mention in the episode that you should consider giving to ACLU.org and knowyourrightscamp.com if you believe in funding social justice organizations. Learn more about Back East at www.backeastbrewing.com. Follow "It Starts With Beer" on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podbean, or wherever you find podcasts!

Mr. & Mrs. Irish Beer Snob

What a fun episode of "It Starts With Beer"! In ep 21, not only do I get to speak to my first international guests, Wayne and Janice Dunne of the Irish Beer Snob podcast all the way from Ireland, but I get to take them to a virtual world of my own design: Pub Americana. From our hologram-realistic barstools, we talk about the state of Irish beer and get to know this lovely couple. Strap on your VR helmets because it's going to be a pixelated ride! Then listen to Wayne and Janice themselves at their Irish Beer Snob podcast.

The fellas from Brewheads

Ep 20! Brando, Clinton, and Big Mike make up the trio known as Brewheads. They drink, they review beer, they hang around, and have fun on their YouTube channel. I had a chance to Zoom with them for a while and find out what makes for an entertaining beer review. We learned a lot about each other and came out of this one changed for the better. Background music by Saiki Beats.

Author Clare Goggin Sivits

In ep 19, enjoy my interview with Clare Goggin Sivits (@beergoggins), the author of an April piece in the website October called “The Beer World Wasn’t Built for Moms." News music background by AudioTrend.

Mass Brew Bros. talk Mass breweries

In ep 18, we find out: What’s happening with Massachusetts breweries? No one knows better than Rob and Bob of Mass Brew Bros, and in this interview we talk about their recent post on MassBrewBros.com about the future of Mass breweries post-pandemic.

Witchdoctor Brewing's Josh Norris

Ep 17: Let's talk music and beer and the simple life in Ohio with Josh Norris of Witchdoctor Brewing in Southington, Conn. But it all starts with beer... in the news. Enjoy the sound effects, and stay in touch at beer.snob@yahoo.com. Make sure to subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Stitcher.

Maine Beer Writer Carla Jean Lauter

My interview in ep 16 with Maine beer writer Carla Jean Lauter was a treat. She's been active and effective at informing people about Maine beer, currently as the "Tap Lines" columnist for the Portland Press Herald. As @beerbabe she promotes diversity in beer. We had a chance to talk about her writing evolution and the current state of Maine beer.

Connecticut Magazine's Erik Ofgang

Erik Ofgang is not only a nice guy, he's a talented writer. Episode 15 starts with beer and beer writing and veers towards Ofgang's other passions: music and magic. Music for this episode is provided by Mactalla Mor. Photo: Elena Wolfe Photography

Brewery Consultant Daniel Flynn

Ep 14: Breweries, like nearly all segments of the economy, have some worries about what the new landscape will look like in the era of COVID-19. Daniel Flynn of DRF Consulting in Cheshire, Conn., works with breweries all the time on their accounting needs. I spoke with him about the big financial picture.

CT Brewers Guild's Phil Pappas

Ep 13: My interview with Phil Pappas of the Connecticut Brewers Guild reveals what the nonprofit advocacy group has been doing behind the scenes to help local breweries, particularly in regards to laws and loans. There's some money talk in this one, so get your finance hat on. Photo by Katharine Manning.

Little Red Barn's Community Support

Ep 12: My discussion with Nils Johnson of Little Red Barn Brewers of Winsted, Conn., focuses on how the brewery is staying staying positive with the support of its community. Despite having to cut staff, the owners are hoping to bring them back when the COVID-19 crisis is over, and is collecting money for them along the way. Music by The Dead Dawgs featured in this episode. Cover photo courtesy of the Register-Citizen newspaper.

Veracious Brewing vs. coronavirus

In ep 11, I interviewed Mark and Tess Szamatulski of Veracious Brewing Company and Maltose Express homebrew store, both in Monroe, Conn. We focused on how our current crisis is putting in peril a way of life: the face-to-face interaction in a quiet, publike atmosphere. This husband and wife team were optimistic nonetheless.

Labyrinth Brewing vs. coronavirus

In ep 10, I interviewed with Adam Delaura of Labyrinth Brewing, which since 2018 has served beer out of a refurbished old space in Manchester, Connecticut. Learn how this 3-man team is dealing with the current crisis with hard work and levity. Photo: Jessica Prout Photography

Alvarium Beer vs. coronavirus

Enjoy ep 9, my conversation with Chris DeGasero of Alvarium Beer Company of New Britain, Connecticut, on how the brewery has learned to cope with life in the era of COVID-19.

Brass Works Brewing vs. coronavirus

In ep 8, I interviewed Kyle Ondrush of Brass Works Brewing of Waterbury, Conn. It was March 26, 2020, and we focused on how this team of four co-owners worked together to keep beer and cash flowing during a crisis.

Brewery Legitimus vs. coronavirus

In ep 7, I interview Christina and Chris Sayer, owners of Brewery Legitimus in New Hartford, Conn., and how they are weathering the coronavirus. Interview is from March 23, 2020.

Coronavirus and beer

In episode 6, I talk a bit about the potential impact of the spreading coronavirus on the beer industry and reflect on the joy of drinking alone.

Continuum Distilling

My interview in episode 5 with Brandon Collins of Continuum Distillery in Waterbury, Conn., shows us how spirits, too, can start with beer. Join me as I venture into the world of Drops and Charred: beer-based spirits. www.continuumdistilling.com

Beer dinner review

In episode 4, I talk about how a recent beer dinner turned out, with a breakdown of each course pairing. Music: "Mid Summer" by Broke in Summer. Photo from Foodal.com

Pairing beer, pairing life

As I prepare for a beer-pairing dinner, I muse in episode 3 about pairing in general.

Rambles about Greek beer and terroir

It starts with Greek beer in episode 2, rambles into Brooklyn, and lands on what the terroir of Connecticut might be.

Beer recommendations

Here’s my inaugural episode of “It Starts With Beer,” a show about beer commentary and what flows from that. Enjoy!

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