

Craft Beer Professionals
Craft Beer Professionals
Craft Beer Professionals is a national network dedicated to the growth and betterment of the craft beer industry. CBP unifies and elevates the industry through educational content, peer to peer dialogue, and unique community events.
Educational sessions, interviews, and panel conversations that dive into critical topics in the craft beer industry.
[Stay up to date with CBP]
www.CraftBeerProfessionals.org
Educational sessions, interviews, and panel conversations that dive into critical topics in the craft beer industry.
[Stay up to date with CBP]
www.CraftBeerProfessionals.org
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 27, 2023 • 39min
Empowering Your Staff: Implementing Software for Employee Training
As the seasons change and winter is hurtling towards us, There is no better time than now for brewery owners and taproom managers to start thinking about ways to get to the next level for 2024 and beyond. With the new year just around the corner, its a great time to start implementing different strategies to improve the business for the upcoming year.
As we all know, if you're not growing, you're falling behind. One key strategy that is so important, but gets constantly put on the back burner is employee training and on-boarding. This area covers a range of topics such as general policies and procedures, dress codes for front of house staff, and even health + safety requirements to prevent workplace injuries and protect the business in the event of one.
In this session, you will learn how to improve your employee training with easy wins, health and safety compliance considerations, and focusing on your staff can maximize the customer experience.
BarSight strives to provide solutions to save money and time for restaurants, breweries, and others in the hospitality industry. Their software includes employee management, generating cost schedules, employee on-boarding development, manager log book forms, and more.
Get excited to join us in-person at CBP Connects in 2024.
More information coming soon.
Stay up to date with CBP at update.craftbeerprofessionals.org

Dec 20, 2023 • 28min
Brewing Up Success: The Art of Efficient Brewery Accounting
Hop into our expert panel discussion and tap into the secrets of maximizing your cash flow, accelerating payments, and gaining financial control by pouring your AP and AR processes into the digital realm. Learn how to ferment your finances effectively, ensuring smooth operations and faster transactions, so you can raise a toast to the thriving aspects of your business that inspired your journey into the craft beer industry! Cheers to simplifying the backend while savoring the front-end delights of brewing excellence! 🍺✨
This converstion features:
Elle Sutherland, Sales Manager- Melio
Jake Tasseff, Account Executive- Melio
Stephanie Smith, Account Executive- Melio
David Lin, Owner, Comrade Brewing
Melio is a B2B payment platform revolutionizing the F&B industry by offering small to medium businesses a simpler way to pay and get paid. Pay business bills with bank transfers for free or pay by card - even where cards aren’t accepted - to increase cash flow and rack up rewards. With Melio, you can also get paid faster. The money goes directly to your bank account and your business customers can pay you how they want in a few clicks. There’s no sign-up costs nor subscription fees, and your vendors aren’t required to create an account in order to receive payment.
Elle Sutherland
Sales Manager-Melio
elle@melio.com
(626)-557-1447
Stephanie Smith
Account Executive- Melio
stephanie.smith@melio.com
(626)-829-9373
Jake Tasseff
Account Executive- Melio
jake@melio.com
(720)-464-1384
David Lin
Owner-Comrade Brewing Company
chairman@comradebrewing.com
(720) 748-0700

Dec 13, 2023 • 1h 1min
Leaning In: Exploring Theme-Driven Breweries
"A welcoming place with great beer."
"Good times, good people."
Is anyone actively trying for the opposite? How do you describe your brewery in only 5 words? Today, we are going to chat with brewery owners that aimed to not only create welcoming spaces, but leaned into to a specific theme as an integral part of their operation. From dogs to baseball to wizards to airplanes, we will discover the inspirations behind these thematic choices, the challenges faced in execution, and the impact on customer engagement and brand loyalty.
This conversation features:
Ann Zofchak (4 Paws Brewing)
Blake Edmunds (Studly Brewing)
Chris Ragaisis (Wizard Works Brewing)
Morgan O'Sullivan (FlyteCo Brewing)
Get excited to join us in-person at CBP Connects in 2024.More information coming soon.Stay up to date with CBP at update.craftbeerprofessionals.org

Dec 6, 2023 • 54min
Brand Authenticity in an A.I. (-Infatuated) World
Authenticity has been a core principle of the craft beer community since its inception. It’s even in the name: “craft” beer. Machines make things. Humans craft things. The vast majority of craft breweries are modestly-sized labors of love built by real people with literal blood, sweat, and tears.
Join Brian Winkeler and Jennings Hammack from Oklahoma City-based branding & packaging design shop Robot House as they discuss with CBP’s Andrew Coplon all the ways in which authenticity matters in every aspect of a craft brewery’s brand experience (from branding & packaging to taproom & shelf presence) and the impact of A.I. on the beer business, both positive (sales & distribution intelligence) and negative (crappy A.I.-generated beer label “art”).
Brian Winkeler & Jennings Hammack represent 1/3 of Robot House, an Oklahoma City-based six-person team of creative thinkers, dreamers and doers who craft emotional brand stories with fresh, cool, award-winning design in collaboration with clients around the country. Specializing in brand development, packaging design and all things creative, Brian & Jennings are on a mission to find passionate people eager to build and explore a brave new world for their craft beer brand.
Join us in-person for CBP Connects | Half workshop, half networkingCharleston, SC | December 4-6, 2023Grab your spot now at https://cbpconnects-charleston.eventbrite.com

Nov 29, 2023 • 57min
Brewery HR 101
Crafting great beer is an art, but managing the human side of your brewery is equally essential for success. "Brewery HR 101" is designed to provide brewery owners, managers, and HR professionals with the foundational knowledge and tools necessary to build a strong and productive workforce in the craft beer industry. From hiring and training brewery staff to fostering a positive work culture and complying with industry-specific regulations, our guests will share insight on how to foster a thriving workforce.
This conversation features:
Holly Haslam (Brewers Association)
Jan Lardin (New Realm Brewing)
Jeremiah Sampson (Fullsteam)
Join us in-person for CBP Connects | Half workshop, half networking
Charleston, SC | December 4-6, 2023
Grab your spot now at https://cbpconnects-charleston.eventbrite.com

Nov 25, 2023 • 53min
Staying Savvy in a Turbulent Market w/ Don Marcil and Mike Paladino (Lotus Beverage Alliance)
Don Marcil and Mike Paladino, industry experts and seasoned brewers, share strategies for success in the craft beer market. Topics include market trends, business sustainability, marketing strategies, and industry collaboration. They emphasize the need for adaptability, unique experiences, and solid business planning. The podcast also highlights the passion of the speakers for the brewing community and invites audience engagement.

Nov 22, 2023 • 1h 11min
Addressing Sexual Harassment in Brewery Environments: Fostering Respectful Workplaces
Join Danyelle Semjonovs (Beer Law HQ) + Betsy Lay (Lady Justice Brewing Company) for an enlightening discussion addressing sexual harassment within brewery environments.
The craft brewing industry has grown significantly in recent years, but with this growth comes the responsibility of employers to ensure a safe workplace. During the next hour, the senior legal team of Beer Law HQ will explore the nuances of sexual harassment within brewery settings, shedding light on various forms of harassment, its impact on individuals and the workplace, and the legal and ethical obligations that breweries should uphold. During the presentation, Danyelle Semjonovs will lead a discussion on:
-Understanding Sexual Harassment: Define and recognize the different types of sexual harassment in brewery environments, including verbal, non-verbal, and physical forms.
-Legal Framework: Gain insights into the legal implications of sexual harassment under employment and anti-discrimination laws and learn about the potential consequences of non-compliance.
-Creating a Respectful Culture: Discover effective strategies for fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes respect, open communication, and zero tolerance for harassment.
-Prevention and Intervention: Learn how to implement preventive measures such as training programs, clear reporting mechanisms, and swift intervention protocols to address harassment incidents promptly.
-Supporting Victims: Understand the importance of providing support and resources for victims of harassment and explore ways to ensure their well-being and empowerment.
-Role of Leadership: Explore leadership’s critical role in setting the tone for workplace behavior and understand how leadership commitment can lead to a safer and more inclusive environment.
-Industry Best Practices: Discover successful case studies and best practices from breweries that effectively tackled sexual harassment issues.
Attendees will gain valuable knowledge to create a positive, respectful, and inclusive environment within their breweries, thereby contributing to a stronger and more ethical craft brewing industry.
Huge thanks to Encompass Technologies, Boelter, & Gorman Smith Beverage Equipment for all your support on our Fall Virtual Conference.
Join us in-person for CBP Connects | Half workshop, half networking
Charleston, SC | December 4-6, 2023
Grab your spot now at https://cbpconnects-charleston.eventbrite.com

Nov 18, 2023 • 1h 3min
Married in Beer: Running a Business with Your Partner (Jake + Kayleigh Lohse, Presidential Brewing)
Relationships are tough. Running a brewery arguably requires just as much dedication. When combining the personal and professional aspects of your life, the potential for complication increases. We are excited to speak with Jake and Kayleigh Lohse (Presidential Brewing), who not only wear the rings of marriage, but are attached by the bonds of running a business together. In this conversation we will discuss why they chose to go into business with their partner, the challenges they face, strategies that have helped set boundaries, and how this decision has made them each a better person.
Huge thanks to Encompass Technologies, Boelter, & Gorman Smith Beverage Equipment for all your support on our Fall Virtual Conference.
Join us in-person for CBP Connects | Half workshop, half networking
Charleston, SC | December 4-6, 2023
Grab your spot now at https://cbpconnects-charleston.eventbrite.com

Nov 15, 2023 • 40min
Culture Matters: Why Your Team's Experience in Your Taproom Should be What You Focus on First
This compelling presentation dives into the crucial role a healthy team culture plays in the brewing and taproom industry. It explores the unique challenges and opportunities of fostering a robust and positive work environment in this dynamic sector. The talk provides a thorough understanding of how a healthy team culture not only elevates employee satisfaction but also enhances customer experience and drives business success.
Key elements of a thriving team culture within this industry are dissected, spotlighting skills, attitudes, and behaviors that should be encouraged. From effective leadership practices to promoting craftsmanship and creativity, various strategies are unraveled to help brewery and taproom owners cultivate an enriched work environment.
The presentation underscores the significance of incorporating sustainable and responsible business practices into the team culture, shedding light on their potential to motivate staff and impact overall business performance positively. Real-world examples of successful brewing and taproom businesses that have successfully nurtured a wholesome team culture provide attendees with practical insights and inspirations.
With a nuanced understanding of the brewing and taproom industry’s specific needs, this presentation offers valuable tools and guidance for those looking to create a positive, productive, and healthy work culture. Attendees will leave with a richer perspective on how prioritizing team and staff culture can pave the way for enhanced business performance and a more gratifying work environment for all.
Andy Risvold is a Founder and President of Forgotten Star Brewing Co, which opened in Fridley MN in November of 2019. Navigating this very young business through covid has taught Andy many lessons in fostering a strong and healthy workplace culture focused on providing 5 Star Experiences for everybody who walks through their doors, starting with Forgotten Star Brewing's staff.
Matt Schwandt is the owner of Bauhaus Brewlabs. Bauhaus Brew Labs is a family of musicians, scientists, artists and – above all – beer lovers, aiming to reinvigorate the spirit of the family brewery. At Bauhaus, we take a unique look at classic German-inspired beer styles, skewed slightly by a sense of play and adventure. Our flavor-forward, sessionable beers are crafted to surprise and delight without taxing the palate.
Huge thanks to Encompass Technologies, Boelter, & Gorman Smith Beverage Equipment for all your support on our Fall Virtual Conference.
Join us in-person for CBP Connects | Half workshop, half networking
Charleston, SC | December 4-6, 2023
Grab your spot now at https://cbpconnects-charleston.eventbrite.com

Nov 8, 2023 • 1h 1min
How to Write a Brewery Job Description
Nationwide breweries are experiencing staffing challenges. Breweries are not only competing with each other for talent, but also big box retailers often offering comparable pay with less responsibilities. In this conversation, we will speak with our panelists on how to create a job description that will attract candidates, what to include, and discuss best practices with regard to transforming a potential hire into a valuable employee.
Panelists:
Justin Riopelle (Brewing Industry HR Consultant)
Katie Rado (Trace Brewing)
Kyle Smith (Gorman Smith Beverage Equipment)
Lance Furer (Bright Penny Brewing)
Stephanie Vavonese (BrewRecruit)
Moderator: Andrew Coplon (Craft Beer Professionals/Secret Hopper)
Huge thanks to Encompass Technologies, Boelter, & Gorman Smith Beverage Equipment for all your support on our Fall Virtual Conference.
Join us in-person for CBP Connects | Half workshop, half networkingCharleston, SC | December 4-6, 2023Grab your spot now at https://cbpconnects-charleston.eventbrite.com


