Craft Beer Professionals

As the industry evolves, breweries are embracing tools like QR code ordering to streamline operations, boost tab sizes, and maximize efficiency. But how do you keep the soul of the taproom alive when guests order with their phones instead of chatting with a bartender or server? In this panel, brewery leaders and Arryved experts discuss how to use technology without losing the personal connection that keeps people coming back. We’ll explore the sweet spot between operational efficiency and guest experience, discuss flexible service models—and share real-world strategies for integrating tech without compromising on hospitality.Panelists: Adriane Hodges (Bold Republic Brewing Company)Kent Steeves (Braeloch Brewing)Moderator: Nick Komisar (Arryved)Join us in person for CBP Connects New OrleansDecember 8–10, 2025It’s never been more important to connect: https://cbpconnects.com/

Join us for an insightful panel discussion exploring the multifaceted impact of Artificial Intelligence on the craft beer industry. We'll bring together experts from marketing, legal, data science, and a leading craft brewery to discuss how AI is transforming everything from consumer engagement and operational efficiency to legal considerations and data-driven insights. Discover how your craft beer company can harness the power of AI to innovate, grow, and thrive in a competitive market.Panelists: Jonathan “Hootie” Hooten (Paradym Data)John Szymankiewicz (Beer Law Center)Michael Perozzo (Vice Beer)Moderator: Chris Overlay (Get Hoptimized)Join us in person for CBP Connects New OrleansDecember 8–10, 2025It’s never been more important to connect: https://cbpconnects.com/

Distributor partnerships can fuel your brewery’s success, or slow it down. In this panel, we’ll break down what it really takes to build relationships that last. From clear communication and shared expectations to staying relevant in a crowded portfolio, our panelists will share what’s working, what’s not, and how to stay top of mind without being a headache. You’ll leave with practical, honest advice to make your distributor relationships more effective and less frustrating.Panelists: Carey Niekrash Beralderi (Grey Sail Brewing)Eric Butler (Wolf’s Ridge Brewing)Laura Lodge (Distribution Insight for the Craft Brewer)MaryAnna Ferris (Ash & Elm Cider)Matthew Pere (Pretty Ugly Distribution)Melissa Johnston (Tryon Distributing)Moderator: Julie Rhodes (Not Your Hobby Marketing Solutions)Join us in person for CBP Connects New OrleansDecember 8–10, 2025It’s never been more important to connect: https://cbpconnects.com/

Is it finally the year of the lager? In this panel, we’ll discuss the styles gaining momentum, the brewing techniques getting brewers excited, popular ingredients, and how these trends are landing with today’s drinkers. In this panel, you’ll get inspired by what brewers are actually creating right now and leave with ideas to take back to your business and keep your beer relevant in a changing market.Panelists: Lee Lord (Narragansett Beer), Marty Scott (Revolution Brewing), Mitch Steele (New Realm Brewing), Abstrax HopsModerator: Adam Mills (Adam Makes Beer)Thank you to Get Hoptimized and Go Brewing for helping keep our community and content 100% free and accessible to all Craft Beer Professionals.Join us in person for CBP Connects New OrleansDecember 8–10, 2025It’s never been more important to connect: https://cbpconnects.com/

Join us for "Spills and Thrills: A Panel Conversation on Insurance Lessons Learned," an insightful discussion designed to navigate the complexities of risk management and insurance in today's dynamic landscape. This conversation goes beyond theoretical concepts, diving into real-world scenarios where unforeseen events have led to critical lessons. Our panelists will explore how unexpected incidents, from natural disasters to wire transfer data breach, have reshaped approaches to policy considerations and expanded coverage. We’ll discuss the evolving nature of risk, the importance of proactive mitigation, and the power of robust insurance frameworks in fostering resilience.Attendees will gain actionable insights into identifying blind spots, optimizing coverage, and leveraging lessons learned to future-proof their operations. Whether you're a brewery owner, taproom manager, or head brewer, this panel promises a compelling exchange of knowledge that will equip you with a clearer perspective on navigating potential "spills" and transforming them into valuable "thrills" of growth and innovation. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from others in your industry and enhance your strategic preparedness.This conversation features:Chris Dial (Wanderlinger Brewing)Christian Spears (TN Brew Works)Josh Buckley (The Nations Brewing Company)Kunal Patel (KP) (Mill Creek Brewing Co.)Chris Dial, co-owner of Wanderlinger Brewing in Chattanooga, TN, brings a unique perspective to commercial insurance. Having navigated the intricate world of craft brewing, from managing operations to understanding liabilities, Chris developed an intimate knowledge of the industry's specific insurance needs. Now, as a commercial insurance agent, he leverages this firsthand experience to meticulously craft policies that truly protect businesses like his own. He understands the nuances of equipment breakdown, liquor liability, and property coverage from a brewery owner's viewpoint, making him an invaluable asset for others in the industry seeking comprehensive and insightful insurance solutions.Stay up to date with CBP: http://update.craftbeerprofessionals.org

In this session, we’ll start with the basics of CIP (cleaning in place) and explore how the Sinner Cycle can help you fine-tune your cleaning and sanitation process. You'll learn how temperature, chemical concentration, time, and mechanical action all work together, and how understanding their balance can help you build a CIP program that fits your brewery’s specific needs.Next, we’ll walk through practical tips for evaluating the effectiveness of your CIP cycles and spotting issues before they become bigger problems. From tracking performance to troubleshooting inefficiencies, you’ll leave with actionable insights you can use right away. We'll cover what causes fouling and scale buildup, how cleaning agents actually work, and how to solve common CIP challenges.Oliver Meinhold is the Technical Director of the Brewing Division and consultant for Zee Loeffler. He studied at the University of Munich, graduating with a Dipl.-Ing. degree in Brewing Science at the Berlin Institute of Technology where he received his second Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering. He spent 7 years at the VLB (Research and Teaching Institute for Brewing in Berlin) as a Project Manager followed by 7 years at the Berlin Institute of Technology as an Assistant Professor. He is in his current position for 13 years. He is a current member of the MBAA Higher Education Committee and the Vice-President of the MBAA-District Mid-SouthStay up to date with CBP: http://update.craftbeerprofessionals.org

The beer industry looks a lot different than it did a few years ago, and packaging strategies are evolving right alongside it. In this conversation, we’ll talk with Brian Casse from Iron Heart Canning about how mobile canning has adapted to meet the needs of today’s breweries.We’ll cover what’s changed in the market, what breweries should consider before investing in their own equipment, and where mobile canning fits into a smart, flexible business model. Brian will also share lessons from more than a decade in the field and what he sees ahead for both packaging and the industry as a whole.Brian Casse is the second ever Iron Heart Canning employee and has done everything from warehouse work, to working the back end of the canning line, leading into being a sales manager, helping grow the business in the North East before expanding the South and Midwest. He is now the Head of Sales, managing the sales team and continuing to help IHC grow. You can find him on instagram @idrinkgoodbeer as well as listen to the podcast he helps manage called Steal This Beer with his friends Justin Kennedy, John Holl from All About Beer Magazine and Augie Carton of Carton Brewing.Stay up to date with CBP: http://update.craftbeerprofessionals.org

In our “What’s Going on in…” series, we partner with State Guilds to spotlight current successes, challenges, and trends in their beer communities. There’s so much we can learn from each other, and these conversations are designed to give you valuable insights that can be applied in your own state.Next up: New JerseyThis conversation features:Brie Devlin (Brewers Guild of NJ)Lori White (Zed's Beer)Scott Wells (Bolero Snort Brewery)Stay up to date with CBP: http://update.craftbeerprofessionals.org

In our “What’s Going on in…” series, we partner with State Guilds to spotlight current successes, challenges, and trends in their beer communities. There’s so much we can learn from each other, and these conversations are designed to give you valuable insights that can be applied in your own state.Next up: FloridaThis conversation features:Anthony Stone (Tampa Bay Brewing Company)Brian Detweiler (3rd Planet Brewing)Christine Denny (First Magnitude Brewing)Paloma Mejia (Florida Brewers Guild)Stay up to date with CBP: http://update.craftbeerprofessionals.org

As cannabis-infused beverages gain traction in both licensed and hemp-derived markets, brewers are uniquely positioned to lead the next wave of infused product innovation. But while curiosity is high, confusion around cannabis emulsification technologies often holds teams back from action.This educational session will demystify the world of cannabis emulsions—breaking down the science, technology, and real-world application of how cannabinoids like THC and CBD are transformed into water-compatible ingredients. We’ll explore the most common infusion systems on the market today, including nanoemulsions, liposomes, and micelle-based carriers, comparing them on critical factors such as onset speed, taste, clarity, equipment needs, and shelf stability.Whether you’re in an adult-use state considering THC drinks or looking to experiment with federally compliant hemp-derived formulations, this session will provide a framework to help brewers navigate ingredient selection, infusion strategy, and formulation with confidence. You'll walk away with a clear understanding of how these technologies work, what they cost, and how to evaluate them for your production goals.Perfect for innovation managers, brewmasters, and business owners ready to explore the cannabis beverage space without the hype—just practical, production-ready insight.Jason Stark is the founder of The Entourage Effect, a cannabis business management consultancy specializing in operational optimization, extraction strategies, and infused product development. With over a decade of experience in the legal cannabis industry, Jason began his journey in Colorado during its pivotal transition from medical to recreational use. He has worked hands-on in cultivation, extraction, and retail operations, giving him a comprehensive, ground-level understanding of the industry. Jason holds a Master’s in Business Management from the University of Florida and has led numerous cannabis companies through successful product launches, process improvements, and multi-state expansions. Known for bridging the gap between executive strategy and day-to-day operations, Jason brings a unique blend of technical knowledge, financial insight, and regulatory fluency to every engagement. His mission is to empower businesses to operate more efficiently, remain compliant, and grow sustainably in a complex and evolving marketplace.Stay up to date with CBP: http://update.craftbeerprofessionals.org