The Brewery Underground Podcast : Craft Beer Stories and Adventures

In this episode of The Brewery Underground Podcast, Steve and Scott sit down with Pablo Gomez from White Labs in Asheville, North Carolina for a deep dive into the world of yeast, fermentation, and the science behind great beer.Pablo shares how yeast impacts flavor, aroma, and even the overall identity of a beer — far beyond simply producing alcohol and CO2. The conversation explores White Labs’ innovative fermentation techniques, their brewery and taproom concept in Asheville, and how different yeast strains can completely transform the same wort into entirely different beers.The episode also covers:The history and science of brewing yeastHow yeast became domesticated over thousands of yearsLiquid yeast vs. dry yeastKveik yeast and high-temperature fermentation Diacetyl and White Labs’ new “Modigen D” bioengineered yeast technologyHomebrewing tips, fermentation control, and oxygen managementBeer freshness and why IPAs should be consumed freshHow yeast affects classic beer styles from German lagers to hazy IPAsAlong the way, Pablo shares stories from the craft beer industry, insights into brewery fermentation practices, and even answers fun rapid-fire questions about “diva” yeast strains and what yeast might survive a zombie apocalypse.Whether you’re a homebrewer, craft beer enthusiast, or just curious about the hidden science inside every pint, this episode is packed with fascinating beer knowledge and behind-the-scenes fermentation talk.Cheers!

Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of America with a fun Fourth of July episode as Steve Sullivan and Scott Touron welcome Nashville content creator and craft beer personality Kelsey Simon to Blackstone Brewing Company and Nashville Brewing Company.Kelsey shares her journey from South Florida to becoming one of Nashville's most recognizable beer and lifestyle content creators, discussing how a passion for craft beer, travel, and authentic storytelling helped her build a loyal following of nearly 100,000 people. From winning Nashville's Oktoberfest Beer Queen competition to creating viral social media videos, she talks about the importance of staying genuine, producing engaging content, and building a community around shared experiences.The conversation covers Nashville's craft beer scene, favorite local breweries, Oktoberfest traditions, unforgettable trips to Germany, Guinness in Ireland versus the United States, dive bars, Broadway recommendations, classic lagers, and why Blackstone Brewing remains one of Nashville's most iconic breweries.Kelsey also shares stories behind her vintage vehicles, Dolly Carton and Tanya Trucker, her work with Von Elrod's, ML Rose, White Velvet Chapel, and her newest creative project, The Granny Smiths. Along the way, she gives practical Instagram tips for creators, talks about what makes content go viral, and even demonstrates her now-famous bottle-opening party trick that has to be seen to be believed.Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast, social media creator, Nashville local, or simply looking for a fun holiday episode, this conversation is packed with laughs, behind-the-scenes stories, beer recommendations, and plenty of Nashville personality.Grab a cold beer, celebrate Independence Day, and join us for another great episode of The Brewery Underground Podcast!Cheers!Steve & Scott

Not long ago, Tate Huffard had an idea and a vision for how he believed non-alcoholic beer is "supposed to taste". He founded Best Day Brewing. At first, he was marketing the product from the trunk of his car. But not anymore. Tate Huffard and his Head Brewer Jeremy Rudolf both joined us to talk about their wonderful NA options. Found at many stores across the country. One of the first to jump on board from the very beginning, Whole Foods!With the ever-changing craft beer market, Best Day Brewing is making an impact. We tried for ourselves what they have to offer and talked about it during this episode. These gentlemen tell us, they don't expect you to stop drinking your favorite craft beer options. Add some NA from Best Day! Their message of "changing your mindset" will resonate through this entire interview.Dry January is always a busy time for companies like Best Day Brewing. But the real excitement comes right now. The summer season is here! Many are looking for something a little lighter this time of the year. We think you will really enjoy the story of how Best Day Brewing got started and the entire process that goes into making the product appealing.Cheers!

In this complete episode of The Brewery Underground Podcast, we sit down with Garrett Hickey of Streetside Brewery in Cincinnati, Ohio, for an in-depth conversation covering the brewery's evolution, creative approach to brewing, and the realities of operating a successful craft brewery in today's market.Garrett shares the story behind Streetside's growth from a neighborhood brewery into one of Cincinnati's most respected craft beer destinations. We discuss the brewery's award-winning barrel-aged stouts, highly sought-after hazy IPAs, fruited sours, and how Streetside balances innovation with consistency across its diverse lineup.The conversation dives into the challenges facing the craft beer industry, changing consumer preferences, brewery expansion, taproom culture, and what it takes to stand out in an increasingly competitive market. Garrett also discusses collaborations, the Cincinnati beer scene, lessons learned through years of brewing, and how Streetside continues to adapt while staying true to its identity.Whether you're a fan of big stouts, juicy IPAs, or simply enjoy hearing the stories behind successful breweries, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people, passion, and perseverance that drive modern craft beer.Grab a beer and join us for this complete conversation with Garrett Hickey of Streetside Brewery.Cheers!Steve & Scott

In this special Brewery Underground Happy Hour, we celebrate our friend Rich reaching an incredible milestone: 5,000 unique beer check-ins on Untappd!Join Scott, Steve, Mitch, and Rich as they crack open some special beers and discuss the journey to 5,000 unique beers, the evolution of their beer palates, Untappd badges, beer ratings, and the beers that helped shape their craft beer adventures.Along the way, the conversation covers everything from TailGate Brewery Mug Club nights and Chattanooga beer trips to Mortalis, Equilibrium, Drekker, Burial, XUL, Von Trapp, Lost Abbey, Common John, Mill Creek Brewing, and the never-ending quest to find new beers.The guys also debate Untappd's beer style classifications, share stories about forgotten check-ins, discuss the importance of keeping beer records, and reflect on how their tastes have changed over the years.Raise a glass and celebrate a milestone that represents nearly 15 years of craft beer exploration, friendship, and unforgettable beer experiences.Cheers to 5,000 unique beers, Rich!Cheers!

Welcome to this complete episode (we combined episodes 72 & 73) featuring Joe Crockett and Nick Rotruck from the Hop In, We're Drinking! Podcast — a self-described "podcast about nothing" that proves to be about a whole lot more than that.Joe joins us from Hawaii and Nick from West Virginia, giving us a unique opportunity to explore craft beer culture from two very different corners of the country. We discuss how they launched their podcast, the inspiration behind it, and how they've built a growing show that features everyone from homebrewers and professional brewers to representatives from the American Homebrewers Association.As passionate homebrewers themselves, Joe and Nick share their brewing experiences, favorite styles, and the knowledge they've gained through years of making beer. We also dive into West Coast IPAs, including a discussion about the legendary Pliny the Elder, and why Steve's summer beer adventures might revolve around the style.Of course, no beer conversation would be complete without talking about Untappd. We compare notes on how we use the platform, what we like about it, and how it has impacted the craft beer community. We also explore the brewery scenes in both Hawaii and West Virginia, discussing local favorites, beer availability, and what makes each region unique for craft beer fans.With six time zones separating them, Joe and Nick explain how they coordinate guests and keep their podcast running smoothly despite the distance. Along the way, the conversation takes several entertaining detours, including Nick sharing the bizarre tale of a French pig that was arrested, jailed, and executed during the Middle Ages.Whether you're a fan of craft beer, homebrewing, great podcast conversations, or just hearing friends share stories and laughs, this episode has a little bit of everything. Pour yourself a beer and join us for a fun and wide-ranging conversation with the guys from Hop In, We're Drinking!Cheers!

Part 2 of our conversation with Garrett Hickey from Streetside Brewery dives deep into Garrett’s brewing journey, the evolution of Streetside over the last decade, and what it really takes to build one of Cincinnati’s most respected craft breweries.Garrett shares the full story of how homebrewing with his dad led him from minor league baseball in snowy Erie, Pennsylvania to brewing school in England, working at Rivertown Brewing, and eventually opening Streetside Brewery with his family. We get into the differences between English and American brewing techniques, why Streetside chose a direct-fire brewing system, and how modern craft beer trends have shaped the brewery’s approach over the years.We also talk about the creativity behind Streetside’s beer names, experimental brewing philosophy, hype beers, barrel-aged stouts, West Coast IPAs, smoothie sours, and why certain fan-favorite beers disappear for years before making a comeback. Garrett gives incredible behind-the-scenes insight into recipe development, collaboration brewing, Untappd culture, and the balance between making innovative beer and running a sustainable business.The episode also highlights Streetside’s strong community involvement through their “Brew Cause” charity program, Oktoberfest celebrations, and the brewery’s upcoming 10-year anniversary plans — including a massive collaboration beer featuring breweries from around the country.Packed with brewing stories, beer discussions, humor, and industry insight, this episode is a must-listen for craft beer fans, homebrewers, and anyone who loves brewery culture.Cheers!

In Part 1 of our conversation with Streetside Brewery owner and head brewer Garrett Hickey, we dive deep into the creativity, experimentation, and passion behind one of Cincinnati’s most innovative craft breweries.Garrett talks about balancing hype beers with classic styles, the evolution of New England IPAs over the last decade, and why Streetside continues pushing boundaries with massive barrel-aged stouts, smoothie sours, milkshake IPAs, and experimental releases. We also get into the realities of running a modern brewery — from brewing schedules and Untappd ratings to festival season, customer expectations, and deciding which wild beer ideas are worth bringing to life.We taste and discuss several standout Streetside beers including the legendary “Speak of the Devil: Decadence” barrel-aged imperial stout, “Spring Breakers” West Coast Pilsner collab with New Groove Artisan Brewery, and some of Streetside’s unforgettable fruited and dessert-inspired creations. Garrett also shares behind-the-scenes stories about brewing mistakes that accidentally became fan favorites, naming beers, social media culture, and how certain releases become part of brewery lore.If you love craft beer innovation, barrel-aged stouts, New England IPAs, Cincinnati beer culture, or hearing how breweries balance artistry with business, this episode is packed with great conversation and beer geek insight.Cheers!

This Episode combines Episodes #127 and #128.Join us for the complete conversation with Dave Thibodeau, co-founder and president of Ska Brewing, as we dive into the brewery's remarkable 31-year journey from a homebrewing passion project to one of Colorado's most recognizable craft beer brands.Dave shares the story behind Ska Brewing's founding in 1995, the influence of ska music on the brewery's name and identity, and how the DIY spirit of both punk and craft beer helped shape the company's culture. We discuss the early days of brewing in Durango, the evolution of Colorado's beer scene, and the challenges and opportunities that come with staying relevant in a rapidly changing industry.The conversation explores Ska's award-winning beers, including the success of True Blonde, the brewery's approach to quality and innovation, and the development of styles ranging from Mexican-style lagers and Oktoberfest beers to new low-ABV offerings designed for today's drinkers. Dave also shares his thoughts on non-alcoholic beer, THC beverages, shifting consumer trends, and what the future may hold for craft breweries.Along the way, we talk music, hockey, homebrewing, sustainability, the Legion of Ska comic-book universe, late-night ska shows in the taproom, and the community that has helped keep Ska Brewing thriving for more than three decades.Packed with brewery history, craft beer insights, music culture, nostalgia, and plenty of laughs, this is the complete Brewery Underground conversation with one of craft beer's most entertaining and influential founders. Cheers!

Part 2 with Dave Thibodeau from Ska Brewing is here — and this one dives even deeper into the culture, creativity, and rebellious spirit behind one of craft beer’s most unique breweries.Dave talks about how Ska Brewing has evolved over 31 years while still staying true to its punk rock roots, comic book-inspired branding, and love of ska music. We get into everything from brewing hundreds of different beers over the years to the rise of Mexican-style lagers, Oktoberfest beers, low-ABV craft beer trends, THC beverages, and how changing consumer habits are reshaping the beer industry.We also explore Ska Brewing’s legendary comic book universe, the “Legion of Ska,” sustainability efforts inside the brewery, and some unforgettable stories from the brewery’s early days — including late-night ska shows inside the taproom that may or may not have been completely legal. This episode is packed with brewery history, craft beer culture, brewing philosophy, music, nostalgia, and plenty of laughs. If you’re into independent craft breweries, old-school beer stories, or the intersection of music and beer culture, this episode delivers.Cheers!

Join us for Part 1 of our conversation with Dave Thibodeau, co-founder of Ska Brewing out of Durango, Colorado! Dave takes us deep into the incredible 31-year history of Ska Brewing, from homebrewing experiments in his dad’s basement to building one of America’s most recognizable independent craft beer brands.We talk about the origins of ska music and how it became the inspiration behind the brewery’s name, branding, comic book artwork, and culture. Dave also shares stories from Ska Brewing’s early days in 1995, brewing their very first batches of beer, surviving the ups and downs of craft beer trends, and recently winning Gold at the World Beer Cup for their legendary flagship beer, True Blonde.Along the way, we dive into craft beer history, Colorado beer culture, old-school homebrewing, music, hockey, nostalgia, and what it takes to stay authentic in the craft beer industry for over three decades.If you love craft beer, brewery stories, brewing history, ska music, or just hearing passionate people talk about what they love, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.Cheers!

It's only May and what a busy year it has already been for us. In this episode, we are talking about many of the changes that have taken place in the brewery scene around Nashville and surrounding areas. Mergers, acquisitions, closings, and brand-new places. Very lengthy list.So far this year, Steve and Scott have attended 3 beer festivals. Our journey to each one and the great experience we had along the way.The Brewers Association recently released the Top 50 Craft Breweries in The United States. More information on that during this episode.Last but not least. Craft beer! We've already had some great choices in 2026. Each of us rate our favorites so far and other notable ones we really enjoyed.Cheers!

Beer Drinking is ultimately what we do, and why we started the podcast and our Brewery Adventures page.When we see other people like us, who have turned their passion for craft beer drinking into something more, we have a huge appreciation for that - and that's why we wanted to have Matt and Ryan from Cincy Brew Dads on with us.Matt and Ryan are the definitions of true craft beer drinkers, and they have turned their own love of it into a YouTube channel and Instagram page called Cincy Brew Dads.Not only do they review beers on both platforms, but they visit and record episodes from breweries, events and their front porches.In this episode we get to talk to the guys on Ryan's front porch and we learn about where their craft beer journeys started, how did a blown down fence lead to them meeting each other, and when and why did they decide to start Cincy Brew Dads?The content they are putting out is excellent, it's well thought out, descriptive and is very high quality.These are the types of guys you want to go hang out with and share beers with, and that's exactly what we're going to be doing in the near future.Keep up the good work guys!Go check out all of Cincy Brew Dads' content and reach out to them, we're sure they'll appreciate that.Cheers!

What happens when a corporate career, a love for craft beer, and a desire to give back to the community all collide? You get Mr. Brews Taphouse in Smyrna & Murfreesboro.In this collab episode with Mitch & Rich of The Foamy Heads, we sit down with Marty & Mindy Bell, the family behind Mr. Brews, to talk about how they built a family-friendly restaurant with 30+ rotating taps, why they chose Tennessee for expansion, and what it really takes to run a craft beer-focused business.From Great Lakes Brewing Co. hitting Tennessee to rare pours like Bourbon County variants on draft, we get into how Marty selects beers , plus the balance between craft beer nerd culture and running a full restaurant.We also dive into the transition from corporate life to owning a taphouse, building out locations from the ground up, why Rutherford County was underserved for craft beer, and running a true family business.Events, tap takeovers, keeping the beer list fresh, bringing unique, hard-to-find beers to local drinkers, and the love/hate relationship with Untappd, are other topics we talk about during this episode.We had a great time talking to Marty and Mindi and learned a lot about their journey to Mr. Brews.We hope you enjoy the episode and even more-so, we hope you go visit them at either or both of their locations.Additionally, after our conversation with Marty and Mindi ended, we had a couple of friends join us on the mics, who were already in the building.Shane and Ryan joined us for to share some beers, talk a little beer and just hand out for a bit - for some additional bonus content.Cheers!