EPISODE · Jun 11, 2026 · 42 MIN
Starting a Beverage Business? Recipe to Distribution Selling Handcrafted Spirits | Alek Szczupak (MU Classic)
from Millionaire University · host Millionaire University
#944 Ever wonder what it really takes to launch a handcrafted spirits brand from scratch — without owning your own distillery or a massive marketing budget? In this episode, host Brien Gearin sits down with Alek Szczupak, founder of Broda Beverage Company in Chicago, to share how he transformed a generations-old Polish family recipe into a fast-growing, small-batch vodka brand. Alek dives into the story behind Broda’s authentic, all-natural production process — from zesting lemons by hand to infusing real honey and ginger — and opens up about the challenges of navigating alcohol regulations, finding the right co-packer, and building distribution relationships in a crowded industry. He also reveals how grassroots marketing, local tastings, and one viral TikTok helped Broda gain traction and develop a loyal following. If you’ve ever dreamed of turning a kitchen recipe into a nationally recognized product, this episode will give you a front-row seat to what it really takes! (Original Air Date - 10/10/25) What we discuss with Alek: + Origins of Broda Beverage Company + Polish family recipe inspiration + Handcrafted vodka with real ingredients + Challenges of alcohol licensing and regulation + Finding the right co-packer + Building distribution and retail partnerships + Power of tastings and local marketing + Viral TikTok boosting online sales + Expanding flavors and product line + Lessons for aspiring beverage entrepreneurs Thank you, Alek! Check out Broda at DrinkBroda.com. Follow Alek on Instagram. Watch the video podcast of this episode! To get access to our FREE Business Training course go to MillionaireUniversity.com/training. To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit millionaireuniversity.com/sponsors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What this episode covers
#944 Ever wonder what it really takes to launch a handcrafted spirits brand from scratch — without owning your own distillery or a massive marketing budget? In this episode, host Brien Gearin sits down with Alek Szczupak, founder of Broda Beverage Company in Chicago, to share how he transformed a generations-old Polish family recipe into a fast-growing, small-batch vodka brand. Alek dives into the story behind Broda’s authentic, all-natural production process — from zesting lemons by hand to infusing real honey and ginger — and opens up about the challenges of navigating alcohol regulations, finding the right co-packer, and building distribution relationships in a crowded industry. He also reveals how grassroots marketing, local tastings, and one viral TikTok helped Broda gain traction and develop a loyal following. If you’ve ever dreamed of turning a kitchen recipe into a nationally recognized product, this episode will give you a front-row seat to what it really takes! (Original Air Date - 10/10/25) What we discuss with Alek: + Origins of Broda Beverage Company + Polish family recipe inspiration + Handcrafted vodka with real ingredients + Challenges of alcohol licensing and regulation + Finding the right co-packer + Building distribution and retail partnerships + Power of tastings and local marketing + Viral TikTok boosting online sales + Expanding flavors and product line + Lessons for aspiring beverage entrepreneurs Thank you, Alek! Check out Broda at DrinkBroda.com. Follow Alek on Instagram. Watch the video podcast of this episode! To get access to our FREE Business Training course go to MillionaireUniversity.com/training. To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit millionaireuniversity.com/sponsors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Starting a Beverage Business? Recipe to Distribution Selling Handcrafted Spirits | Alek Szczupak (MU Classic)
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