EPISODE · Jul 23, 2025 · 29 MIN
Continuous improvement in craft beverage tools—inside Foeder Crafters’ evolution, with Dan Saettele.
from The Business of Whats Next · host Dan Saettele
What does it take to buy a niche manufacturing business in the middle of a pandemic—and make it thrive? In this episode, Matthew talks with Dan Saettele, the former banker who now runs Foeder Crafters, the only U.S. company manufacturing foeders full-time. These massive Missouri White Oak fermentation tanks are turning heads in taprooms and changing the way craft beverages are made.Dan opens up about the transition from finance to the shop floor, the operational overhaul he led, and the mindset that keeps the company evolving. This is a story of continuous improvement, smart leadership, and rethinking how tradition meets innovation.✅ What a foeder is—and why it’s different from a barrel✅ How Dan navigated supply chain, staffing, and process redesign✅ The philosophy of “nothing is sacred” in product development✅ Common misconceptions about American oak and how Foeder Crafters challenges them✅ Global trends in fermentation—from Korea to natural wine✅ Advice for anyone thinking of buying a niche business in craft beverage Foeder Crafters of AmericaDan SaetteleInstagramFacebookLinkedIn Sponsors:Debbie Wildrick Consulting Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp
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What this episode covers
Matthew Shipp sits down with Dan Saettele, owner of Foeder Crafters—the only U.S. company dedicated to manufacturing foeders full-time. Dan shares how he transitioned from banking into running a specialized manufacturing shop, taking on the complexities of production, supply chains, and team leadership. They talk through the unique challenges of making large-scale oak vessels, why Missouri White Oak matters, and how Dan has approached continuous improvement across every part of the business. It’s a grounded conversation about buying a niche company, adapting fast, and learning how to lead from the shop floor
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Continuous improvement in craft beverage tools—inside Foeder Crafters’ evolution, with Dan Saettele.
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