The Taproom Podcast

Episode 145 sits down with Daniel Cady, Grant Shulkin and Jacob Sherman of Taproom Beer Co. in North Park, San Diego. The conversation traces their personal journeys from homebrewing and front‑of‑house jobs into professional roles, explores the brewery’s passion for wet‑hop/fresh‑hop beers (including their GABF bronze), and highlights signature pours like Jagged Hedge, Church of Chill and Modern L...

In this episode, I’m hanging with Paul Deras of Mike Hess Brewing down in North Park—and not only did we tour their killer facility, I even dry hopped a batch for the first time. 🤘   We’re talking: ✨ Tasting through a crisp West Coast Pils + a new hazy drop 🤣 A chaotic “Four-Pack” segment (yes… including a brutal FMK question) 🏴 Reflections on Rogue Ales closing and why supporting local brewer...

In this episode of the Taproom, Guess who’s back behind the brewhouse? 👀Adrianne Hodap — now head brewer at @altersocietybrewing in Long Beach! We talk reclaiming her role, brewing 🔥 beers like Pine Avenue IPA & Fresh Mason, and finding that balance between creativity & classics. We also dive into the LB beer scene, community collabs, and what it means to get back to your brewing roots.

🚀 Episode 142 is out of this world! Mike sits down with Andy and Chris Bergsma of @marsbrewing in Rancho Cucamonga 🌌🍺 From humble homebrewing beginnings to launching their family-run brewery, the Bergsmas share stories of building their taproom, crafting fan-favorite beers, and connecting with their local community. They dive into beer highlights like My Favorite Märzen, Marty Light, Pathfinder...

Episode 141 of the Taproom Podcast: host Mike sits down with the handler of GoodGary (aka GG), the viral turtle who visits breweries across LA and beyond. They chat about how the Instagram character started, favorite local and out-of-town breweries, and why supporting craft beer matters. The conversation covers social media, festival memories, beer trends, rapid-fire favorites, and the personal st...

Episode 140: Beers, Buds & Behind the Mic 🍻 Mike sits down with Dez Madrid from Buds, Booze, and Brews for a laid-back taproom chat filled with laughs, stories, and honest talk about the grind (and joy) of podcasting. They crack open some hazy IPAs and West Coast pilsners while diving into favorite breweries, podcasting as therapy, local hangout spots, and the chaos of keeping a schedule.   I...

From Code to Kegs: I sit down with Sky Conley of Alestone Brewing in Longwood, Florida to trace his path from programmer and Disney brewer to opening his own taproom during COVID. They cover Alestone’s signature beers (Jump Tree, Pelican Nightmares, Standard Classic, and a Czech Pilsner), community ties, pizza, and the surprising Bob Ross studio backstory. The episode also highlights GABF weekend...

Host Mike sits down with T.O. Hunter of Crowns & Hops to trace the brand’s rise from social media project (Black People Love Beer, Dope & Dank) to a Black-owned brewing company. They discuss building authentic culture, protecting IP, recipe development, and the harsh business realities of opening a taproom during a volatile market. The episode also covers signature beers (Dopest Hazy IPA,...

Host Mike sits down with Liam Wynn and Thomas Kendrick AKA(Tommy Tsunami) of 8Bit Brewing for a lively episode full of brewery stories, brewing journeys, and beer talk. They cover homebrewing beginnings, working on commercial systems, recipe development (including West Coast Pilsners and chasing the perfect American light lager), can artwork, the arcade vibe, and local craft‑beer culture. Expect c...

Mike sits down with Steven Torres, brewer and co-founder of Gladiator Brews & Billiards in downtown Covina, to trace his path from a 15-year mail carrier to professional brewer. They discuss early mentors, brewery build-outs, recipe development, and the balance between classic lagers and hop-forward beers. Steven shares stories about brewing challenges and successes, his core lineup (including...

Mike sits down with Ann Obenchain, VP of Marketing at the Brewers Association, to talk all things Great American Beer Festival, From the World Beer Cup, to beer trends (NA beers, sours & cans) and the can’t-miss events like Meet the Brewer, Paired, Heavy Metal Taproom, and more. Hear Anne’s craft beer journey + why GABF is the ultimate beer lover’s paradise  #CraftBeer #GABF #WorldBeerCup #Bee...

Host Mike sits down with Evan Blum & Richie Tevlin of @BrewDatPodcast + Space Cadet Brewing 🚀🍻From craft-beer journeys to Gen-Z marketing, small-batch brewing, Philly taproom culture, and the art of collectible cans/merch — this convo is stacked. We also get into fav Philly breweries & cheesesteaks 🥪🍺, beer trends (lagers, IPAs, low-ABV), and the real talk of launching a beer biz.   🎙️...

This week I sit down with Daniel Guido—better known as Ugly Brewer—for a deep dive into the world of craft beer. From his journey out of the canning line and into brewing, to building Tipzy Entertainment w/ his girlfriend Lorena, we cover brew days, challenges, and the passion that keeps the craft scene alive. If you love beer, community, and a good story over a pint, this one’s for you.

Mike sits down with Taz Viloria—aka Comics & Brews—for a loose, laughter-filled conversation that moves from the barstool to the comic shop. You’ll taste the moment with him: a crisp Kolsch, a Westie so fragrant it stops the room, and the heady thrill of debuting a can art collab at a hometown brewery. Follow Taz as he traces the messy, joyful path of making a show—merch sketches, card‑show bo...

Join me on an inspiring journey from home brewing to the grand opening of Solorio Brewing. In this episode, I sit down with Raul Solorio, who shares his passion for craft beer and the pivotal moments that led him and his wife, Jennifer, to turn their backyard hobby into a thriving brewery. Discover how a chance visit to a local brewery sparked a dream, and how dedication, community support, and a...

Join Mike in episode 130 of the Taproom Podcast for a thrilling conversation with Dan and Leo of Steady Brewing. Nestled in Long Beach, Steady Brewing is not just a brewery; it's a vibrant community hub where craft beer meets courageous entrepreneurship. In this episode, discover the inspiring tales of risk-taking and camaraderie, as Dan and Leo share their journey from backyard brewing to the vib...

Welcome to an unmissable episode of The Taproom Podcast, where host Mike sits down with Paul Trevino, also known as @Brewfighter818, from San Fernando Brewing. It's not just about the craft beer this time; the conversation quickly dives into a delectable world of culinary experiences, turning a simple beer podcast into a mouth-watering narrative. Join us as we explore Paul’s transition from a culi...

Welcome to episode 128 of the Taproom Podcast, hosted by Mike. In this installment, we journey into the world of craft brewing with John Shari, owner and head brewer at Little Cottage Brewery in Avondale Estates, Georgia. Join us as John shares his inspiring story from homebrewer to brewery owner, discusses the unique offerings at Little Cottage, and gives an inside look at the thriving craft beer...

In this invigorating episode of the Taproom Podcast, host Mike dives deep into the captivating world of craft beer with special guest Jeff Dechant from Old Stump Brewing. As they sip on some of their favorite brews, Mike and Jeff explore the vibrant community connections formed at beer festivals, reminisce about the exhilarating experience of being at a Georgia Braves game, and share heartwarming...

This episode of the Taproom Podcast features a lively discussion with Victor Montalvo from Boomtown Brewery, nestled in the vibrant Arts District of LA. Host Mike chats with Victor about his fascinating journey into the craft beer industry, starting from his early experiences at Indie Brewing Company to his current role as the director of sales at Boomtown. Dive into the intricacies of brewing wit...

In this heartfelt milestone episode, host Mike reflects on reaching episode 125 of the Taproom Podcast. Mike shares personal stories from his July 4th weekend, including family visits and memorable moments with his brother Luis, the "brother from another mother." Emphasizing gratitude, the episode celebrates past guests and supporters, with special shoutouts to the last 24 guests. Listeners are ta...

In this episode of the Taproom Podcast, host Mike sits down with Barney Santos and Winston Goreen, the dynamic duo behind Boulevard Market in Montebello. The conversation dives deep into the creation and evolution of this vibrant community hub, where craft beer, delicious food, and rich history intertwine. Mike explores the passion and dedication that fueled Barney and Winston to transform a once-...

This thrilling episode of the Taproom Podcast takes listeners on a vibrant journey through the bustling LA Beer Fest. Join your charismatic host, Mike, as he navigates the exciting world of craft beer events, engaging with industry luminaries and fellow beer enthusiasts alike. This episode is a lively mix of candid conversations, including insights from renowned brewers and first-time festival goe...

Welcome to episode 122 of the Taproom Podcast with your host, Mike. In this episode, Mike is joined by Tim Weaver from Branding for Breweries, connecting all the way across the pond. They delve into an engaging conversation exploring the intricacies of the UK craft beer scene, the evolution of pubs, and the role of branding in brewing success. From discussing the cultural significance of beer in t...

Join host Mike for episode 121 of the Taproom Podcast as he shares an enlightening and fun-filled conversation with Francisco Martinez, also known as Pancho, from Paperback Brewing. Mike brings listeners into the world of craft beer through the engaging narrative of Pancho's journey in the brewing industry. Listeners can look forward to an introduction of exciting new segments like 'The Four Pack'...