Average Joe and Friends Podcast (Joe Bobbe)

Just another interesting human to talk to.  Brian Barclay of Barclay Brewing is doing something truly unique, with a completely fresh perspective.  His story is pretty damn cool, and You get to hear from Armando, the beer buyer over at Warehouse Liquors in the South Loop.  We did drink through some pretty high octane stuff, so we may ramble a bit, but man did we have some fun.  We even had an Inception moment with Don't Drink Beer creator, Alex Kidd.  This one should be a fun listen for anybody.

Leading up to Mikerphone's BBA Imperial Bean Spirit, Mike Pallen and I decided to do a little Sunday Morning chat while tasting some delicious new Barrel Aged Bean!  We got a surprise visit from Co-Owner of Phase Three Brewing, Mr. Evan Morris.  A good time was had by all.

Mikerphone Online Store

Mikerphone Facbook

Mikerphone Instagram

Phase Three Online Store

Phase Three Instagram

Smoked Meats and Beer Talk.  You can't really beat that.  With 40 taps to choose from, DYB is a sweet little spot to have a beer and kick it.  I got to sit down with the owners of all 4 breweries that dwell within DYB.  Its a long one but damn was it entertaining.  We got technical, we got comical, we sang, we drank, but more importantly, we learned how and why they started this whole thing.

The ladies of Mikerphone took over the brew house and let me hang out with them all day while they brewed a big ol Hazy DIPA Called, Dripping So Much Sauce.  This Citra, El Dorado, and Sabro hop banger, lyrically inspired by Juicy from Lizzo, will come out at Mikerphone on Sunday March 8th to celebrate International Womens Day!  These are some awesome and Intelligent people and I had too much fun.

Here is a link to the Facebook Event:  https://www.facebook.com/events/199336281191816

I sat down with my friend Nate Kren who has seen a done a lot, and the dude tells a great story.  He is fireman by trade, an ex College Baseball player, a father, a musician, an accountant, and all around DAWG.   

Katy and Michelle rolled out the red carpet for me with a little tour, some coffee, a lot of conversation, and some food and science to cap it all off.  These two have plenty of stories surrounding their beautiful space in Old Irving Park.  The Place was just tremendous and so were the hosts.  Get to know about this Brewery and Ciderhouse and get out there immediately.  

Eris Social Media:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

At the beginning of December Crafted 1979 hosted a panel discussion led by Josh Noel, Author of Barrel Aged Stouts and Selling out, Josh Deth, Founder and owner of Revolution Brewing, Bob Iggins, VP at Windy City Distribution, and Denver Worker, Owner of Crafted 1979.  Discussion was over an Hour long, and it includes parts of Josh's book, The recent purchase of Ballast Point by Kings and Convicts Brewing, and the current state of beer complete with predictions on the future of the craft beer industry.  It is a must listen for beer nerds everywhere.

Despite my best efforts, I made the choice to move the podcast to a remote setting by hosting it on Zoom Meeting.  Mike Pallen at Mikerphone is deeply entrenched in this New World of To Go/Carryout only due to Covid 19, so I wanted to gets some thoughts from him and give people something to do while we are all locked down and Quarantined.  The crew was awesome enough to accommodate my Podcast request, so here is the Pilot Episode of Quarantine Content!

Youtube link: Coming Soon!

This episode was about Confusion, Fun, and Chaos.  I think it should be entertaining for the listeners. It starts with an Original Song by St. Louis musician Adam Gaffney and spins out of control from their with voices from Bloomingtons White Oak Brewing, and Sparta, IL White Rooster brewing.  Also with a guest appearance from my man Tyson Shroyer of home Brew fame, Fire Hop Brewing.  

Lockdown sucks, but it sucks less with a little Zoom chat with Alex Lovinggood and Pete from Barn Town Brewing in Iowa.  We recorded this before I went with the Pro License so it was recorded in 2 35+ minute chunks.  We even got guest appearances from Brandon and Amanda Wright (Werk Force) and Steve Miller (Hailstorm).  There were beers chugged and shotgunned and some pretty hilarious conversation.  Now you can even check out the Zoom video recording on my Youtube Channel.  

Barn Town Brewing Social Media:

Instagram

Facebook

I set up some Mics at the Bolingbrook Brewfest October 13th and talked to whoever I could grab in the middle of chaos underneath the McQs Golf dome.  Got to hear from some people at the fest like Mike Layhew and Dave Benes.  And talk to some brewers like John Newton at Woggly Square and Dan Rosenberg at MyGrain brewing.  The famous Chet Brett joined me and Co-Owner of Elder Brewing in Joliet, Melissa Polykandriotis.  Good times were had by all!

So one year after leaving my "regular" job to join the beer world, Crafted 1979 decided to surprise me by having my wife bring my podcast gear to the shop so that they could do a performance review podcast with customers and beer industry folks.  They thought, I ask enough questions on this podcast, they wanted to have our customers and some beer industry folks as me some questions.  It was a fun day either way, even if it was weird as shit for me.  Thanks to Crafted 1979 for allowing to live my passion daily while also supporting a family.  It means everything to me.

Oz opened up his doors and his skills to make Crafted 1979 an Anniversary beer.  So as our crew so often does, we descended upon his place on a Monday morning with beers to share, and shit to talk.  It was an awesome day, hanging with good friends, talking beer and consuming it.  We also got to hear from Matt Griseta, the executive chef over at Square Roots, and one half of the new Mokena Brewery Brothership brewing in Ryne Willig.

This episode is from a bottleshare this past weekend hosted by my good friend Mike Maxwell.  Mike, myself, and our buddy Steve Crobie sit down and drink some outstanding Barrel aged beers and a few DDH DIPA's, while tossing in a Werk Force Imperial Saison.  We talk about our starts into craft beer and some of the styles we enjoy.  Like any good bottle share, it may get a little sketchy towards the end.  Hope you enjoy it.  Here is the list of what we drank.

Goose Island Bourbon County Stout 2016 Regular

Forbidden Root Snoochie Boochies

Firestone Walker Stickee Monkee

Perrin Unfinished Business

Deth by Cherries

Founders CBS Canadian Breakfast Stout

Oddside Ales Rye Hipster

Saint Errant Watasha

Werk Force Blackberry Vultures

Hailstorm 2016 Vlad The Second Order with Vanilla

For the Pilot episode of the podcast, I visit with Eric and Christen of Iron&Glass in Romeoville, IL.  Just south of I55 on Weber Rd.  They have a great story to tell, and an amazing Taproom and Bottle Shop they co-own.  We talk about getting the shop started, how they met, some of their favorite beers and styles, and their huge anniversary weekend coming up Dec 14 - 16.  It was a pleasure sitting down with them talking Marz, Hailstorm, and Noon Whistle, along with trends in the industry, and whats coming next.  Along with drinking a 1 year old Am I a Hipster from Hailstorm Brewing.

Follow them on Social Media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ironglasstap/

Instagram: @ironglasstaproom

Twitter: @ironglasstap

Untappd: Iron&Glass

Quite possibly the most fun I will ever have in front of a Microphone.  The 2 Pack of Adam Cieslak and Adam Smith was a force to be reckoned with.  Tucked into an awesome spot in the Logan Square area, their Brand new LOUNGE is everything you want in a Beer venue.  It provided us with a great setting to talk everything from Fat Shaming to Jerry Saviano to How Maplewood got it's start to what the future holds for the States only Brewery/Distillery.  These guys were truly funny and even more passionate about what they do.  It is a must to pay them a visit.  

Average Joe's Above Average Facebook Page

Maplewood Brewing and Distillery Social Media:

Maplewood Website

Maplewood Facebook Page

Twitter: @maplewoodbeer

Instagram - maplewoodbrew

World Class DUDES!  We sat down with Members of the Joliet Brewers Guild at Chicago Street Pub in downtown Joliet to talk some JBG and some beer in general.  Along with my buddy Kyle Symons, I was joined by Doug Cowan, Other Doug (Ricky D), Paulie, and Brewer of the year Joel Rakoski!  We had a little fun sampling homebrews while talking homebrews.  If you are a local brewer I highly suggest you pay their meetings a visit every 2nd Wednesday of the Month, and tell em Average Joe sent you.  We heard stories of home brews past, and a little of what's in store for the future, and we got a little visit from Chicago Street Pub owner "Trizz".  We covered a lot in 2+ hours, and it was sensational.

Average Joe's Facebook Page

Joliet Brewers Guild Social Media:

Website: http://www.jolietbrewersguild.org

JBG Facebook Page

CHECK THEM OUT!

Awwwww Yeaaaah.  We had some fun during Snow-Ma-Geddon 2018 in Willow Springs, at Imperial Oak Brewing.  Brett and Grant were so dope.  They gave me more than 2 hours of their time, and Grant and I may have extended that party a little further once the mics were turned off.  I got to try just about everything.  What a tremendous line up.  They shared the vision and drive behind how they got started, and touched on their "Savage Oak" sour/wild/spontaneous program, which is super exciting for any beer lover.  They do monthly BA Releases and soon will be pairing those with a sour too.  Grab a beer and Give it a listen.

Average Joe's Above Average Beer Podcast Facebook Page

Imperial Oak Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Twitter: @imperialoak

Shield Maidens, Literature, Gypsies, and Collaborations are just a few things we covered.  Josh Mowry is one of the most engaging people I have talked to yet on the podcast.  He offered great insight on different perspectives of the beer world.  With their traditional approach to beer (With a little twist sometimes) they have created a badass little beer harth right off I55 on the frontage road off Cass Ave in the Southwest Burbs.  They have had the popular Hop Butcher fellas brewing out their facility for sometime now and Josh breaks down that dynamic when you have two different breweries with two different approaches under one roof.  Look out for their BA Russian Imperial Stout coming in early March "The Bell Witch".  And be sure to get to their taproom.

Average Joe's Facebook

Miskatonic Social Media:

http://miskatonicbrewing.com

Miskatonic Facebook

Twitter: @MiskatonicBeer

Instagram: @miskatonicbrewing

So Small, So Great.  It feels like being in on a little secret.  Though I hope after I post this episode, the secret will spread like wil fire.  Energy City in Batavia, IL is only open 11am - 3pm every first saturday of the month.  I have advice, GO THERE AND BUY BOTTLES.  Though I have no business talking about anything with a chemical, David Files was a scholar and a gentleman.  He has a great and balanced view and approach to beer making.  I am so impressed by the 4 or 5 beers I have tasted from them, I could not wait to share this episode!  Hop Nawi is a must!

Energy City Social Media:

https://www.energycitybrewing.com

Energy City Facebook Page

What can I say?  I can not wait to get back there.  Gary (Owner/Purnhubber), Aaron (Brewer/Badass/Rogan Listener), Chris (Taproom Manager/Cutie/Rick & Morty Enthusiast), were all so welcoming and entertaining.  We spent some time checking out the shop, bashing the Adam's over at Maplewood Brewing (Thanks to them for pointing me in the direction of Alarmist), talking life love, and all the things to come, like canning lines.  A lot of Cask beer and Hazy beer talk.  Mostly general nonsense.  What a great time they were, and by the way, THE BEER IS SO GREAT!  Their flights have 6 beers, so that is worth it alone.

Average Joe's Above Average Beer Podcast Facebook Page

Alarmist Social Media: 

Website: https://alarmistbrewing.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alarmistbrewing/

Twitter: @AlarmistBrewing

Instagram: @alarmistbrewing

Took a trip to Alter Brewing in Downers Grove to sit down with Co-Founders Mark Hedrick and David Yob and talk a bit about their story.  That taproom is immaculate.  Plenty of room for events in the taproom and a couple of hidden event spaces as well.  I sipped on some Alterior Motive Mosaic, Galaxy and the 7-C, a delicious Hoppy Red with Galaxy, and the Denali Llama IPA.  I really enjoyed our conversation about their story, their new lab program, a recent Hop Rub event, and basically all things Alter and beer.  Couple of world class dudes that are running a damn fine shop.

Average Joe's Facebook Page

Alter Social Media:

Website: https://www.alterbrewing.com

Facebook: Alter Brewing Page

Instagram: @Alterbeer

Twitter: @AlterBeer

Youtube Channel

Thank god for remodels and tank deliveries, otherwise Corridor Brewery & Provisions would not have been shut down for 3 days and given me the oppurtunity to sit down with not 1 but 2 of my favorite breweries going!  Roger Cuzelis, head brewer at Corridor, and Ryan Jacobs & Brent Banks, the duo that make up Saint Errant Brewing sat down for a nice long free form conversation with Average Joe's to talk some beer and whatever else came up.  Mostly beer.  These dudes were so knowledgable and just being around them, by the power of osmosis, I think I can brew a decent DDH IPA.  We crushed some amazing beers from both Breweries (Punchers Chance, Fuzzy Britches, Contrapasso - Saint Errant and Mosiac Monsoon, Mystic Fog, Pretty, Pretty, Pretty Good - Corridor) along with a Hill farmstead and a Breaksides, and yes I call it Hillstead farm in the podcast, like an idiot.  More fun than you could shake a stick at.  Hope to talk to all these guys again soon.  

Social Media: 

Corridor    

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Saint Errant

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

It was a lucky and fortuitous day for myself and the podcast.  Drew Fox gave me a couple hours of his time on a Saturday morning in early March at the Hammond, IN location of 18th Street Brewery.  I had to miss the Energy City Brewing Beer Release in Batavia, but as luck would have it, my wife offered to go stand in line for me, while I talked to the Overloard of 18th Street and Sour Note Brewing.  On top of that, and completely unplanned, it organically turned out to be the 18th episode of the podcast!  He is a smart, insightful, driven, kind, and generous person.  I have never interviewed anyone like him, but I am sure the experience benefits me more than it does him.  I can not thank him enough for his time and his generousity.  Dude is dope and so is this episode.  Hope you all enjoy it and be on the look out for the 18th Street Distillery and Sour Note Brewing stuff.  This guy straight hustles!

18th Street Brewery Social Media:

Website: http://www.18thstreetbrewery.com/18thhome

Facebook: Hammond Location  Gary Location

Instagram: @18thstreetbrewery

Twitter:@18thStreetBrew

Okay Bro-Tato Chips, this place was sweeeeeet.  And really big.  It is run and owned by a great group of people.  I had a great time with Owner/Head Brewer Trevor Rose-Hamblin and his Asst. Brewer Andreas.  I got to meet the whole cast of characters, including Nee-Lo, who also works for the Lucky Door, and Mailman John, who supplied a Triple Barrel Big Bad Baptist for us.  Join us on our ride from Michigan to Illinois to over seas and back to Chicago again.  This place is the real deal, and Trevor, if you are reading this, please change the name of Trendi to O I B Juicy.  Also congrats on Engagment and your Upcoming Nuptuals with Amanda (Which will be at the Brewery!) 

Old Irving Brewing Social Media:

https://www.oldirvingbrewing.com

OIB Facebook

Twitter: @OldIrvingBeer

Instagram: @oldirvingbrewing

FINALLY!  I got to sit down with Noon Whistle.  Paul (Head Brewer/Beer Guy) and Mike (Business Guy) were kind enough to grant me some time nestled between some empty kegs and their canning line to talk about one of my favorite spots, NOON WHISTLE BREWING.   Gummies, as far as the eye can see.  The gummy series gave me my intro to the NEIPA style beers I love to talk about so much, along side the Hailstorm Cloud Series.  I found out some things that surprised me about the start of Noon Whistle and where it is heading.  We talked about everything under the big beer sun.  I think you will like this one.

Noon Whistle Social Media:

Website: http://www.noonwhistlebrewing.com/home-page.html

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Noon-Whistle-Brewing-1381433485432405/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/NoonWhistle?lang=en

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noonwhistlebrewingco/

It was a long time coming sitting down with John Brand.  We have been in contact for a couple months trying to sync our schedules up, but it was worth it!  Really enjoyed hearing his story and tasting the great beers they are making.  Really like the Peach Milkshake IPA I had, their DIPA was outstanding, and the Peanut Butter Stout was top notch.  He is an interesting guy, and I enjoyed his sense of community, and I think you will too.  From the world of Futures to the world of Hazy IPAs we covered it all.  We also got a paid a visit from Brady Potts the ChiBeerGuy.  Look for him on social media, he is entertaining.

Open Outcry Social Media:

Website: http://www.openoutcrybrewing.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/openoutcrybrewing/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openoutcrybrewing/?hl=en @OpenOutcrybrewing

Twitter: @OpenOutcryBrew

Bro's.  Actual Legit Bro's.  I sat down with John and Mark Newton of Woggly Square Brewing this week for a little chat, and we had a little bit of fun.  If you have not heard of Woggly square yet, you are not alone, but you will be hearing more about them very soon.  They are brewing out of 350 Brewing in Tinley Park, and have 1 bottle release under their belt, which was a smashing success.  They brew "Beer With a Purpose".  That purpose is to help folks with Autism.  I want you to hear their story from them, so enjoy the show.  I love these guys, and I am pretty sure we are friends now, whether they are okay with that or not.  Also Gina, we all love you!

Woggly Square Social Media:

Website: https://www.wogglysquare.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wogglysquare/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wogglysquare/ (@WogglySquare)

Twitter: https://twitter.com/wogglysquare?lang=en (@WogglySquare)

ATB!  Big thanks to Randy for hooking this thing up!  And to Iron&Glass for use of their outstanding bottle shop and taproom.  Dan and Lindsey were buckets of fun to talk to during our first live in taproom broadcast.  It started slow with only 1 person in the taproom listening and ended with a completely overloaded taproom full of people that Randy had to pour samples of Around the Bend beer for.  Hey Lindsey, if you read this, it is great for your brand exposure.  You have seen their cans all over, but sit down and take a listen to what makes this beer company so "Classically Experimental".

They do not get much bigger than this.  I reached out to Jeremy Kosmicki of Founders last month when I heard he was doing a Keynote for a local Brew Competition in Crest Hill, IL.  He said he would be glad to come into town early and talk a little Founders with me.  He was as cool and down to earth as a guy can get after 20+ years in the Craft beer world.  He has a resume that consists of KBS, CBS, Mosaic Promise, and a bunch more Founders classics.  Thanks to Colt and the Iron&Glass Family for rolling out the red carpet for him and breaking out a 2012-2017 vertical of KBS.  I think he made a lot of peoples days just by hanging out with us afterwards and even throwing down a Chug of their new Lager Solid Gold.  It was a great day for myself and this podcast and a lot of other Iron&Glass Patrons.

Founders Social Media:

Website: https://foundersbrewing.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/foundersbrewing/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/foundersbrewing

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foundersbrewing/?hl=en

I could have hung out with these fellas all night, and I kind of did.  I love having 4 mics rolling.  These guys are an awesome story.  Super young brewery open less than 1 year.  Great stories to tell, and great chemistry between them.  They are doing some really good things on a really small scale.  definitely a must stop when in the area of the Southwest burbs.  A Teacher, A Brewer, and An IT guy.  It made for some good story telling and some tasty brews in a pretty sweet taproom.  Be on the look out for these guys, and if you are getting rid of larger scale Brew supplies, hit them up, they are looking to get grow their current 2 Barrel operation!

Black Horizon Social Media:  CLICK EM ALL!

Website

Facebook Page

Instagram

Twitter

Feeling pretty lucky to have done this one.  Gabriel was one of the most engaging people I have come across, not just in beer, but in life.  Between the demeanor, the back story, and the conversation, I can not imagine this one not appealing to everyone.  From blowing glass in Colorado to 2 Half Acre taprooms and a Chicago Institution!   Not to mention a woodshop project.  This episode is special.  Also listen for the sultry tons of Justin, Senior Brewer in the background belting out some REM.  And a big shout out to Meredith for putting this all together, you kick ass at your job!

Half Acre Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

A regular chucklefest ensued when i sat down with Mike Pallen and the Mikerphone crew, Kyle and Mike #2.  What a fun group of guys to drink beer with.  They were very honest, and they even shared some breaking Mikerphone news.  We covered the Smells like a Beer Festival coming at the end of April, and how each of them got their start in the beer world.  Really great story tellers and just some all around authentic guys!

Mikerphone Social media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

We're going Dutch!  Dyer, IN has quite the gem on its hands in Windmill Brewing.  Besides Luther, their brewery cat, they also have tremendous beers made by dudes that just love beer and brewing it.  I sat down with the owners, Justin and Scott and their other brewer Mike and we just hashed out the Windmill Brewing story.  They are becoming well known for the "Milkshake" IPAs like Memes and Dreams and Two if by Citra, but they make a wide variety of styles and some pretty cool inventive stuff.  I left with a mad love for their Pink Lemonade Gose.  The color and taste will blow you away for sure.  Had bunches of fun with these fellas (And Luther the Brew Kitty).  Get out to Dyer and get to know them.

Windmill Brewing Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

On a fateful, beautiful sunny thursday in April, I got the long awaited email from Shaun Berns that he would indeed be up for the podcast that same day.  We walked through the brewery then sat down with his assistant Brewer John and GM of More Brewing Evan and had a short 3 hour conversation on everything from beer to food, to mustaches, and winning some pretty impressive Hardware from Stout Fest.  They could not have been cooler, and lucky me, they had tapped a Henna varient that day.  And they were selling cans of Azzaca DH Dusty.  Big win for me!  We had a blast, but we also got some honest insight and a little breaking news on expansion and canning for More Brewing!  And also we hit 10,000 download today.... AWESOME!  And thank you all for listening!

More Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

I sat down with Headbrewer and part owner Jamie Albert at the soon to be Will County Brew Co. Taproom.  WCBC will be the first brewery to open in Shorewood, IL, and despite some small speed bumps along the way, they are scheduled to open in January 2018.  I had a blast talking about the space and the story behind it, and drinking what will be their first bottle release upon opening, Zero Year Anniversary.  Please take some time to check out their webpage and their Kickstarter page (Links Below).  They will be an awesome addition to the southwest burbs craft scene.  Jamie gives some insight on what to expect with the doors open from what kind of beers you can expect to find on tap, to decor, events, and other happenings WCBC's future.

Website: https://www.willcountybrew.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/willcountybrew/

twitter: @willcountybrew

Instagram: @willcountybrewingcompany

Kickstarter: Donate here and become a private backer of Will County Brewing Co. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/willcountybrew/welcome-to-will-county-brewing-company-support-loc?ref=project_tweet

Took a trip to meet Brian Buckman and his assistant brewer Tony to talk ancient conspiracies and secret societies.  Well, we mostly talked about Illumintaed Brew Works Beer, Sex Chairs, Kill Floors, Burning man, Bonfires, Yeast "Proping" and a host of other non-sense.  These guys could not have been nicer.  I loved hearing their story and drinking their world class beers.  We enjoyed some Purple Surp, Orange Sunshine, and a little Astronaut Ice Cream and just talked.  These two were just great guys, and I hopefully I fall into the category of "People they Trust".  Check them out, they have big plans coming down the line for a Bottle shop and Tasting room.

IBW Social Media:

Website (Be sure to sign up for their email list to get invited to the Bonfire Parties)

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Had Sparkling good time talking to David Kerns and John Barley at Solemn Oath Brewery.  Take a listen so you can be educated on Brony and Vanning cultures, along with whats happening over at Solemn Oath.  They been doing it for a real long time in the Brew game.  I could not help but ask about their epic can art, and David had some great stories about his time spent over the pond getting schooled.

Solemn Oath Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

I took a trip to Tinley Park to visit Soundgrowler Brewing's Cofounders and Head brewer.  It is a really nice taproom, and Larry, Head Brewer, is cranking out some pretty bad ass brews while listening to Doom Metal.  They schooled me on the music genre and gave me some insight on how this young brewery for started and where it's going.  Did I mention TACOS?  They have some dope ass tacos.  Even if you do not like beer, you should go for that food.  They were all great guys and we had a good time talking about Soundgrowler and the beer industry in general.  Check them out.  And go get your face rocked off by some DOOM METAL.

Soundgrowler Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

CHET BRETT.  That is all you need to know.  I got to sit down with the Mayor of Beer and head brewer TJ over at Church Street last week, along with owner Lisa Gregor.  As entertaining of a chat as I have had on the podcast.  Chet was just engaging as all hell, and TJ was breaking down some deep state brewing knowledge, which was fascinating.  And in depth look at "Contract brewing".  The whole crew there works so well together from Austin, to Andrew, to Saraa.  It is definitely worth a stop in when you find yourself in the northwest burbs.  Cool spot making some classic brews.  

Church Street Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

It's a big one!  Lagunitas in Chicago.  I gotta say, Mary Bauer may be the most engaging person I have had on this podcast.  She was the perfect guest.  I enjoyed my time with Mary so much, I wish I would have kept her longer.  The time we spent was full of geniune stories about legit people.  Such a great perspective on a huge brand.  They are so true to who they are.

Lagunitas Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

What a cool experience for me.  I have been a long time sportstalk radio fan and specifically of ESPN 1000.  I knew through listening to Fred all these years he had a love for craft beer.  So I reached out to him to record an episode of the podcast and low and behold he said yes.  Really enjoyed my time with Freddy, we just talked beer and then we sprinkled in a little sports talk here and there, but it was an honor to have his voice on my mics.  Enjoy this, it was pretty cool.

Fred's Social Media:

Twitter

Instagram

ESPN1000

Chicago Fire Weekly Podcast

These guys, am I right!?  Way too much fun sitting with John, Emily, and Paul.  I had only heard of their greatness, but to spend a few hours with them really opened my eyes to a brewery that has been sitting under my nose for some time.  Just the most geniunely cool people you could ask for.  And that Coconut Golden Ale is insane.  The Single Hop Citra IPA was the freshest most beautiful version of a real IPA I have had in years.  The conversations spanned Fantasy Football, HBO, Dunk Tanks, Hot Chicken, Pink Boots, and a miriad of other great topics.  Get some!

Social Media Info:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

So happy to get the chance to sit down with Brandon, Steve and Josh from Hailstorm Brewing.  It is my go to brewery.  They have next level beer along with music and dope food trucks.  But I have been going there for years, and never really knew why Hailstorm came to be.  It was really cool getting to hear where all 3 of them came from, and their backgrounds, eventually leading them to this killer place.  They are coming straight off some insane collabs, big bottle releases, Craft Brewers conference, and their 4th Year Anniversary party.  We talked about the Vlad and Cloud series and took a deep dive into some ancillary brewing equipment chatter.

Hailstorm Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Untappd

IL Craft Beer Week 2018 Rolls on, as I intrude on Jerry and Dave Nelson, brothers and cohorts at Une Annee and Hubbard's Cave Brewery.  These guys have quite the story to tell, from humble beginnings making european inspired beers in a dark space in Chicago(On Hubbard St of Course).  To a current space with brand new front windows, thanks to a late 90's chevy blazer, in the Northern suburb of Niles, IL.  With them continually crushing every style they venture into, see the Fresh Series (NEIPAs), Coffee and Cakes (Pastry Stout), La Grande Monde (BA Wild Ales), and Le Seu series (Stainless Wild Ales).  They have big things coming and shared a lot of good stuff on the podcast.  True artists and craftsmen.  Their beer is a must buy.

Une Annee & Hubbard's Cave Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

2 Weeks into being open, I sat with Denver and Dan, owners of Crafted 1979 Bottle Shop and Taproom to talk about their crazy journey.  We covered the stories behind the pours, from their beginnings, their trips to FoBAB and Dark Lord day, and the approach they took when opening their Store.  We tasted some Hubbards Cave Fresh IPA V9 and cracked a whale of a beer in a De Garde Kriek Premiere.  The fellas were outstanding, organic, and authetic as all hell.  We got a surprise visit from Eric Anderson from Doc's Smokehouse in Mokena.  We covered a bunch, and I think you will be informed and very entertained.  Cheers!  Please go check them out.  Here is some info on the Crafted 1979

Website: https://www.crafted1979.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Crafted-1979-603773063344313/

Twitter: @Crafted79

Instagram: @Crafted1979

Location: 

19200 LaGrange Road, Mokena, IL

Glad to finally visit Pollyanna Lemont.  It has been on my list, and Vince hooked it up.  I was treated to some fine beers, a great taproom, and just some solid dudes to talk to.  Brian, head brewer/cofounder, Paul (Cofounder), and Vince (Asst. Brewer), did exactly what I love about this podcast.  They talked, they had a conversation with me.  I could have talked all night with them.  I love their perspecitve on the business side of things specifically, and the geniune honesty.  And any day talking about Fun Size is a good day.  Get out there for some Barrel Aged Fun Size this weekend.  

Pollyanna Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Most people go up to the Northwoods to relax and fish.  Well I did that, but I figured, Why not squeeze a podcast in.  Last year when I went up to Arbor Vitae, WI to visit my unlce Jeff, We stumbled upon this little gem of a brewery in Woodruff, WI just a couple miles south of my Uncle's place.  Little did we know it had ties to my hometown of Joliet.  So this year, before going up I tried to find a connection via social media, and like everything else in this world, it involved Brandon Wright of Werk Force.  Brando connected us via text, and Tyler and his wife Christie agreed to do an episode during my visit.  So glad they did.  Their story is a great one, and they are amazing and generous people.  If you find yourself anywhere near the northwoods of wisconsin, make it a point to stop into Rocky Reef and meet their black lab Rocky, and drink a Musky Bite IPA.

Rocky Reef Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instgram

That space though!  Maybe the most original and unique places I have been in, with the people to match.  Huge Beer selection, crazy cool decor, and the wildest Austrian Crowler Filler i have ever seen.  The food menu is legit, and of cours those beers.  Hazy, Sour, Belgian, and a whole bunch more.  Robert, the owner, is hyper intelligent, well traveled, and really interesting to talk to.  Nick is semi-new to the area and making some insanely good beers on a very cool brew system.  Forbidden Root opened my eyes and educated me on stuff I was just plain ignorant about.  Also they Forage for stuff for fun, which is awesome.

Forbidden Root Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Well, we tried something new.  I gathered up 3 owners/brewers from different breweries in a region and had them talk a little beer with me.  Hosted and set up by my guy John Brand at Open Outcry, we were joined by Mark Kocol of One Trick Pony in Lansing, IL, and Matt Johnson, brewer at Horse Thief Hollow, just a little ways north of Open Outcry on Western Ave in the Beverly neighborhood.  We got down to the bottom of a lot of things, including, glasses, cans, crowlers, and growlers.  It was great to hear from each of them on the past, present, and future of Southside Chicago beer.  They have a lot to offer in that part of the city suburbs, both on and off trends.

Be sure to follow all of them on Social Media:

Open Outcry Brewing Co.

One Trick Pony Brewing

Horse Thief Hollow Brewing

I took my first trip up to the Beer Cellar and Glen Ellyn to have a talk with a local beer legend.  Dave  Hawley!  He is the OG of the suburban bottleshop scene, and just an entertaining human to talk to.  The conversation was fun and plentiful.  Dropping some knowledge on building relationships in this industry, and the tough decisions it can present when it comes to beer buying and selling.  Just an overall awesome and positive person.  This was the best possible way to spend my Sunday morning.  Also, if you have not heard of or tried Afterthought Brewing, get out to glenellyn and rectify that!

The Beer Cellar Social:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Love and Marriage, and a bottleshop!  I sat down with Patrick and Julie Bisch of the Open Bottle in Tinley Park, along with 2 of their "Beertenders" Joe and Michelle.  We had a little too much fun I think, but what a great group of people.  The place is always on the cutting edge of what is hot in beer.  They have put out some of their own great collabs with Hailstorm Brewing in Tinley, and most of all, it is just a cool place run by cool people.  I really enjoyed hearing their story.

The Open Bottle Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Another hometown brewery visit for me.  And these two reached a whole new level of LOCAL.  They support everything that is going on in the area.  They do not jump at events out of their area for more exposure, but choose to partner with businesses in there direct vicinity.  From the beer, to the music system, to the decor, local art, and locally made Beef Jerky by www.biteclubnoms.com, this place screams local.  They have a great story to tell and I am glad Melissa and Andrew told that story on my podcast.  I can not wait to get back there for their "Pizza Off" and some live local music.  Go help support them while they try to bring Downtown Joliet back to the forefront of entertainment.  And be sure to check out their amazing 100 year old floors.  Andrew is not afraid to talk about them!

Elder Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Bite Club

I stepped foot in the MouseTrap for the first time.  The place was great, nice light refreshing beers and a side of Dark Matter coffee and great atmosphere.  But the reason I was there was to talk to a man who stays just about as true to himself and the integrity of his beer as possible in this industry.  John Laffler, co-founder of Off Color Brewing.  We talked about everything from the current state of things, to how he came up, his time at Goose, bee keeping, and the spark that led them to think up such an Off Color idea.  Let's open up a production brewery, but not make an IPA, or any other beer we don't want to.  John was honest real for every second of this conversation, and I thank him for that.  We need more true originals.

Off Color Brewing Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Mousetrap

We hit the brew pub then the impressive production facility.  And the thing I noticed the most is that everyone in the town of BearBonnais knows Alex Lovinggood!  Such a notable brewery in such a small "Farm Town"  Brickstone has picked up so much steam over the years it is hard to picture them as family owned, but they are indeed family owned and Independent.  They opened up the doors for me and showed me a great time and some great beers.  Matt Offerman took his shirt off mid podcast and Alex sat in his squashy arm chair.  I felt like part of the Brickstone family while I was there.  Get down there and drink some beer and eat some food.  And take the back country roads there.  Actually pretty nice to look at.

Brickstone Social Media:

Website

Facebook Page (Brewery)

Facebook Page (Production)

Instagram

Twitter

Hagen and Bill played host to the podcast this week, and treated me to a nice change of pace.  Sitting back and drinking lagers, wild Rauchbier, and Wild Table beers has never been more fun.  I got an education in "Dovetail German", beer styles, and the "CoolShip".  The cherry Kriek they released a day after recording (July 13th) was out of this world good and the tours are legendary.  Two guys that bonded in Munich over a "Slaughter Plate" sure have done a lot for furthering these old world styles in a new world beer scene.

Dovetail Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

What an Episode!  Tom and Jake were outstanding.  They rolled out the Beer Red Carpet for us, and let us sit in the Barrel House #1 while doing the podcast.  Meanwhile they broke out bottles of some of the best beers I have ever had.  Including some "Wild" Stuff, some Jester King, River City, and a collab with Une Annee.  We tried their The Dorado and Vanta, which were outstanding, but most importanly we talked, for a long time.  I also want to thank my guy, Mike Maxwell, for tagging along and adding to the conversation.  These guys were so gracious with their time touching on the beer industry as a whole, their starts in the business, what's coming down the pipeline, and a little of what they do when they are not elbows deep in Hops.  I hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed recording it.

Average Joe's Above Average Facebook Page

Penrose Brewing Social Media:

Website: http://penrosebrewing.com

Instgram: @PenroseBrewing

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/PenroseBrewing/

Twitter: @PenroseBrewing

What do you do the day after you throw an engagement rager in your brewing space?  A nice Sunday Nooner podcast.  At least that is what you do when you are Jim and Nate of Aleman.  These dudes opened up their space to me at noon on a Sunday and they powered through.  Loved hearing their story and drinking their beer.  Keep your eye out for these guys.  Legit humans.

Aleman Social media:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter

Finally sat down with my friend and Beer Historian John Bitterman!  We used the monkey house as our studio to talk a bit about beer history and beer collectibles.  John has an immense collection of Beer history and you can see a large chunk of that on display at the Joiet Historical Society through the end of the year.  It is a beautifully done exhibit, and I encourage anyone who has a slight interest in beer to go check it out!  

Follow John on Facebook:

Facebook

Joined by a couple of brilliant minds, I got an above average education in beer and particularly YEAST!  So much fun hearing about all the things that go into Omega Yeast labs and having one of my favorite brewers there to help further the conversation was not bad either.  Learn about these Nordic yeasts the lab is putting out.  They seem awesome.

When you get a shot to talk to the "Master of Barrels" at Pipeworks, you talk to the "Master of Barrels" at Pipeworks!  Otherwise known as the "Oaken Nap Coordinator". This was an amazing experience from the conversation to the tasting of different barrels of Murderous and Jones Dog out of random barrels, and even a couple custom blends on the spot.  Pipeworks is a true Chicago pioneer and they continue to pump out great products after revolutionizing IPA's in the area!  It was an honor to have this conversation.  Also thanks to Brian Pautsch for hooking this up!

Pipeworks Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Adjunct stout talk with "The Avengers" of the Chicagoland Stout game.  I was very honored to lead this conversation with 3 guys who make such amazing beer.  It was a stellar night for the audience and myself.  We got to listen to some great discussion and drink some incredible beer.  All 3 brewers spent time with the audience after the recording and appeared to have an absolute blast.  The next one of these will be a highly sought after event.  I can not wait to do this again.

Follow Chicago Brew Werks, Werk Force, Hailstorm, and More on social media!

After an almost 3 week Podcastless streak I ventured west to Oswego Brewing to sit down with Marc Wilson and Chris H.  Marc is the headbrewer at OBC, and just so happens to a World Beer Cup Gold Medal under his belt.  Chris is one of the founders and owners of Oswego Brewing, and I would say the 3 of us had a great time.  We talked about everything from first brew mishaps to industry trends, and water chemistry.  It is an amazing spot and everyone should head out that way and try these really techinically sound and tasty beers.  Also a special thanks to Eric, on instagram, @TheBrewtog for taking pictures during the episode.  Dude is talented! 

Oswego Brewing Social:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Afterthought Brewing was introduced to me by Ryan Jacobs of Saint Errant Brewing, in Episode 17 he referred to their beer as "HILL FARMSTEAD Level".. Saisons are not always thought of as the "Sexy" Style.  But god damn is Afterthought making some beautiful beers.  It is a small operation, but Mike and now his two brewers are just killing it.  You can only get his beer in Glen Ellyn at the OG suburban bottleshop The Beer Cellar.  Dave Hawley, owner of the Beer Cellar, has supported Mike's beer from the jump and helped get it into more people hands.  If you have not tried his beers I recommend driving there immediately.  We had a great conversation about the Past Present and future of Aftethought, including the great story of how it got it's name.  The world should look forward to more from this brewery.

Nice monday morning trip up to Lyons to visit Sean and Ike over at Buckledown Brewing.  This is the brewery you need to convince your wife to stop at before or after trips to the zoo with the kids.  It is located perfectly to pair with a Brookfield Zoo trip.  They were coming off their huge Oktoberfest party and they were there bright and early canning up some fresh Fritzticuffs.  The guys are the real deal, blue color all day!

I travelled way on down past Champaign, IL to visit Triptych Brewing for their.  Sausage (And Beer) Party.  But before the party I got to spend 2+ hours with Anthony, Luke, and Mike from Triptych and find out a little bit about their story.  We honestly could have gone 4 hours if need be, but the sausages were calling.  What a great group making some outstanding beer.

Triptych Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

SPONSOR:

J & B Music Lessons: Website

 THE CREEEEAAAAMMMM RIIIIIISES TO THE TOP!  What a crazy day this one was.  This episode was originally going to be centered around the group texts between brewers Brandon Banbury, Steve Miller (Hailstorm), Chris Betts (Transient), Alex Lovinggood (Brickstone), Brando Wright (Werk Force), Shaun Berns (More), Erik Pizer (Rock Bottom Warrenville), and James and Will O'Brian (Flesk).  It turned into a giant Imperial Stout Collab called Surrounded by idiots.  So Alex reached out and asked if I could spend the day with them and just record some of the nonsense that ensues.  It was an amazing day, hopefully the audio reflects that.

Got to spend a little time in the Monkey House with the guys at Metal Monkey Brewing in Romeoville, IL.  Dan and Jason were gracious hosts, letting me sample their delicious brews, and all the while telling me their story.  We covered the beginnings of a Home brew addict to how the two of them hooked up at the Joliet Brewers Guild, and thought hmmm, Maybe we should start a brewery.  With a large and outstanding taplist and a bunch of changes coming down the pipeline, this is a must listen for any Chicagoland beer lover.  There was talk of Canning and expanded Distro in the near future, along with a new 10 Barrel system in the works.  Don't miss their Anniversary Party January 27th.  The guys let us in on some of the special tappings and other things planned for the event, it is going to be pretty sick!

Average Joe's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Averagejoesaboveaveragebeerpodcast/

Metal Monkey Social Media:

Website: http://www.metalmonkeybrewing.com/home

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MetalMonkeyBrewing/?fref=ts

Instagram: @metalmonkeybrew

Twitter: @MetalMonkeyBrew

Crafted 1979 Bottleshop in Mokena brewed their first collaboration beer for their one year anniversary with Hubbard's Cave.  I got to accompany them for brew day along with a bunch of Crafted regulars they call Hoperatives.  I set up the podcast gear and pitched in to help can V6 and dump some grain into this big ass dessert stout.  Bananas Foster ingredients make breweries smell amazing by the way.

Thanks to Shaun at More Brewing, I got to piggy back on his collab with Bottle Logic and get a conversation in with Wes, Dylan, Brandon, and Steve from BL! Their beers are legendary in the secondary and trade market, so talking to them during FOBAB week just seemed to make sense.  Just an awesome group of humble guys who are still having fun after 5 years!

During FOBAB week I got a chance to do an episode with Bottle Logic while they did a collaboration beer at More Brewing.  Well, while doing that, Mike Pallen from Mikerphone happen to walk into the More taproom, so I asked for a minute of his time as well.  What happened was an awesome 1 hour conversation between Shaun Berns (More Brewing), Mike Pallen (Mikerphone Brewing), and Brandon Buckner (Bottle Logic Brewing).  

An event 1 year in the making.  Great things come to those who wait.  Jude and Justin were an outstanding time.  We covered so much in a short 4 hour time span.  We talked hops, business, movies, nonsense, life, the beginnings and the current state of Hop Butcher.  We also got to drink some of their newest offerings hitting shelves today.  Double Grid, Elder Secrets of an Ancient Past, and a new run of Milkstachio.  Cheers to one year and the "Hop Gods of Chicago"!

Hop Butcher For the World Social Media

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Took a long trip up north and west of Chicago to sit down with the crew at Lake Zurich Brewing.  Their Head brewer Jake and owners Jason and Eric had some great stories to share and some outstanding beers.  Get out to their taproom and be on the lookout for their cans under the Beltane and Magnetic North name.

They also did a recent collaboration with youtube fishing star Jon B follow him on Instagram. 

https://www.instagram.com/rigged_official/?hl=en

What a stunning place to have a beer in the burbs.  Every detail mattered on this one.  Just has the feel of a Northwoods tavern meets an old Irish Pub.  The wood work, layout, and atmosphere are insanely cool.  They are young but they will be a powerhouse summer spot.

My friend John Brand makes his 3rd appearance on the show, this time showcasing a new brewer at the southside brewpub, Wil Turner.  A man who has been in the game as long as anyone in Chicago, making great beers and moving it forward while paying homage to the classic styles.  We had a fun conversation over some cheese curds, Wil's homemade beef jerky, and some tasty beers.  Gotta love that southside baby!

Social Media:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Happy international Women's Day 2019!  Emily Slayton, Owner and Brewer at Skeleton Key Brewery in Woodridge was kind enough to let me be a part of this awesome collaboration brew day extravaganza.  They made a Lithuanian style IPA with a yeast strain brought to America by Omega Yeast Labs of Chicago.  It was a great day that was enjoyed by all the participants and the patrons of Skeleton Key.  Look for the beer in early April.

Feeling lucky to have Shaun Berns and Evan Morris share their huge news on my little podcast.  They are finally stepping out on their own.  They sent out some cryptic social media the day before recording and then share all the dirty little details with me!  Days like this are why I started this podcast in the first place.  Can not wait to watch them grow.

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Nice to have a class and intelligence on the show for once, but enough about Alex Lovinggood and his Pit Vipers.  Danielle and Katie brought the knowledge on the podcast.  I frequently found my eyes glazing over trying to keep up with Danielle's well thought out explanations to my moronic questions.  This is an impressive group and they do so much for the Illinois Craft Beer scene, which is now widely considered one of the best 2 or 3 beer scenes in country.  From Springfield government shenanigans to FoBAB, the work never stops, so sit and listen and get to know these cats!  And get ready for Alex Lovinggoods new podcast coming soon "The Maker in Me"

Website

Facebook

Instagram 

I sat down for a lengthy conversation with head brewer Dan Rosenberg at MyGrain Brewing in the old Joliet Train Station.  It is an impressive space centered around a 100 Year old building, with a large taplist, an out of this world Food Menu, and plenty of beer to go in Cans and Crowlers.  Pretty advanced for a 5 month old brewery.  Dan is Uber intelligent and provides some great insight into this unique space, and the beer world in general.  I prodded him for his past, present and future in the beer industry, and we got down into the weeds on non-sense as well.  Great experience and if you have not been there, come hungry and thirsty, they got what you need.  

Average Joe's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Averagejoesaboveaveragebeerpodcast/

MyGrain Brewing Social Media:

Website - http://www.mygrainbrewing.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MyGrainbrewing/

Instagram - mygrainbrewing

Twitter - @MyGrainBrewing

Kinds new and kinda old at the same time.  A lot of people may remember the brewery as Myths and Legends or Urban Legends in Westmont.  Well since 2018 it has been known as Whiskey Hill Brewing and they are kicking out some badass beers.  They are doing great old world styles while bringing the creativity with big NEIPA, Pastry Stouts, and Fruited Milkshakes or FLOATS!  The atmosphere is great and the people behind the place are really fun to talk to.  My fellow Leatherneck, Matt, Headbrewer Jon, and JJ were amazing hosts and provided me with a bunch of good stories and pure entertainment.

I got to cruise up to Elk Grove Village to hang with the Mikerphone crew and check out the new Blue Room, the canning line, and preview this years Smells Like a Beer Fest!  It is always a great spot to visit.  The first 20 minutes we have the whole gang together, but then Mike Pallen has a fire to put out, so we recorded more of a one on one which is directly after the first 20 minutes, and then after that you get a half an hour of bonus content with Kyle and Mike W.  CHEERS AND ENJOY.

It is coming on 04/20/19, Mad Hatchet Brewing will be opening its doors to the public!  I got to sit down with my old friend Mike Fosnaugh better known as FOZ, who will be their head brewer, along with their Owner and Brewer Mike Stevenson and Assistant brewer Sean McTighe!  We talked about what led them all on this path to opening a brewery and what they can expect when they get going.

Website

Instagram

Facebook

My first Mead episode.  Clint welcomed me into his cozy spot in downtown Valpo, IN and schooled me on the mead game.  I probably could have talked to him for 8 hours and barely scratched the surface of Mead brewing, but we were hungry and need some Ricochet Tacos!  This was an amazing experience for me and Im all about the mead at this point. 

Social Media:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

We broke the record set by Hop Butcher for longest podcast during a 10 hour brew day.  Sit back and relax and strap it in for a 4 hour and 10 minute marathon as Jake Edwards and I brew the podcasts first collaboration beer at Lake Zurich Brewing.  A Triple Berry Milkshake that should be hitting bottle Shops and the LZB taproom in late April/Early May.  We really covered some ground on this one, we even got a special appearance by James O'Brien from Flesk Brewing.

Lake Zurich Social Media:

Facebook

Instagram

So the night before any respectable beer festival, the host throws a little party for the brewers and industry folks he/she has invited to their fest.  Well Mike Pallen was kind enough to invite me and let me set up some "Mikerphones" for a little Smells like a Beer Fest Podcast takeover.  When Mike Pallen keeps feeding you amazing guests from all across the country, and also High Lifes, you just go with it!

It is early in their life, but they have already cracked my top 5 breweries in the suburbs of Chicago.  They are doing everything from the over fruited Sour to Pub ales, and they do not seem to be missing.  They are only about 2 months into opening and already making some of the best Hazy IPAs in the game.  Their Rye IPA Skeleton Revival was an absolute homerun and I look forward to more offering from Riverlands for a long time to come.  The space is beautiful and the taps are packed with Bangers.

Riverland Social Media:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Lane and Beth opened up their doors on a Monday morning for me, and then they served me one of the best over fruited sours I have had the pleasure of tasting.  We had a great conversation about what led them to open up a cozy and elegant taproom in the middle of a crazy strip mall in Lake Zurich, IL.  These guys are a must visit with killer NEIPA's, the Fruit Shoppe Series, and a ton of classic styles they are hitting out of the park right now.  

Roaring Table Social:

Website

Instagram

Facebook 

Untappd

I may sound like a broken record, but another episode and another world class human to talk beer with.  The one, the only Oswald White of The Sour Note Brewing.  The self-proclaimed Southern Wild Boy.  What a smart and insightful dude Oz is.  Loved hearing about his path to brewing beer and the early days of his relationship with Drew Fox of 18th Street, who also joined us for a few minutes.  The beer is killer and the conversation even exceeded that!

The Sour Note Social Media:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Cruising Down I57 with my beef jerky in hand I shot down to Savoy, IL to document a pretty awesome Collaboration brew day with Triptych Brewing and Windmill Brewing.  I was joined by Anthony Benjamin, brewer and managing partner of Triptych Brewing, along with Mike G. and Justin V. from Windmill Brewing.  They brewed up a Horchata style Milkshake IPA with tons of Silk Almond milk, vanilla and a little bit of lactose.  It was really awesome to see these guys interact and actively learn while drinking and having a little fun as well.

I was so pumped for this episode and Brandon and Amanda did not disappoint.  We laughed we cried, we consumed, and we gave Brando a platform to tell the full story of the legend of "Brando's House of Awesomeness".  Though that dream had to be tempered, it lives on within each beer he brews.  I know you all will love this Orgin story along with a bunch of banter and nonsense thrown in.  Amanda and Brandon are two local entrepenuers worth supporting so, get out to Werk Force Brewing and Chicago Brew Werks Brewing supplies, and make sure to have a beer and saddle up for story or 2 as well.  They have a huge accomadating taproom they opened recently and the small tasting room is still there like your favorite old hoodie ready to give you some comfort and an experimental beer or 2.  

Facebook Page: Average Joe's Above Average Beer Podcast

Werk Force Social Media:

Website: http://www.werkforcebrewing.com

Instagram: @Werkforcebrewing

Twitter: @werkforcebrew

Facebook: Werk Force Facebook Page

If you don't know, you soon will.  Viking Artisan Ales is incredible.  And I got a bonus with Aaron, the owner of Boneflower Craft Mead, who is making a massive name for themselves.  We had a blast and drank some insanely good beer while we bullshitted for 2 and a half hours.  Really impressed with both these dudes and the beverages they are creating.  

Viking Artisan Ales:

Instagram

Facebook

Boneflower:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Finally, I got to sit down with a Chicago original, Goose Island Beer co.  Thanks to Renee for putting this together and getting me Keith Gabbett (Brewmaster), Mike Siegel (Research & Development), and Bjorn Johnson (Lead Brewer).  We got to explore a little about what drove them all to beer and ultimately Goose Island.  We talked about some new beers they have in the works, and exactly what it takes to get them from idea states to actual products.  Bjorn, broke down a little about process on how to create some beer.  Of course we talked Bourbon County Stout and where the beer world is going.

Social Media:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter 

Youtube

That Woodridge area is so hot right now.  I love the design and layout of the place, and the beer was spraying to all fields.  Nathan the brewmaster and owner Ed were a great pair to chat with about some beer, pizza, and Iktoberfest activities.  Wish I had gotten out to this place sooner.  It always fascinates me to hear about how a place goes from planning to opening those doors to the public.  Their story satiated that impulse.

Social Media:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Is/Was Brewing is small and it is new, and I suggest everyone put them on their radar now.  What my guest, Mike Schallau, is doing is completely different than everything we are consuming in the current Chicago market.  It is not a "never been done" scenario, but out side of Off Color, Afterthought, and a handful of others, no one is focusing on these Saison style beers.  There are other Fermentation forward breweries out there, but Mike is doing it with 5 barrel fermentors out of Marz Brewing in Chicago.  He is splitting off batches of the same beer and fermenting half straight up with a specific yeast and the other half with the same yeast but treating it with Brettomyces.  You can taste the beer as it is and as it was.  Please follow this young brewery:

Social Media:

Instagram

Facebook 

From being drugged by your friends on Thanksgiving, to Turkey Day Turducken and living in the bush, Todd and Jake covered just about everything in the epic episode.  And we talked a little about beer and shit too.  These guys are two of the most engaging people I have had on, and the stories just keep coming.  You can't not listen to this one.  

Cruz Blanca Social:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

A new perspective on the Podcast, talking to Ammar Sheikah who's family owns Joe's Beverage Warehouse in Joliet.  We sat right in the aisle amongst the beer and talked about what it takes to pivot from your run of the mill neighborhood liquor store, to a Craft Beer Super Store fit for a Beer Geek.  And their upcoming collaboration with MyGrain Brewing, Escape from Staeville.  They truly do "Speak Craft Beer" there.  We talked about their utilization of Social Media when hosting big time releases of CBS or Bourbon County, and Daily beer drops.  Great guy and a great spot to buy really good local beer and some damn good Bourbon and all types of other booze as well!  Go pay them a visit, they have it all.

Average Joe's Facebook Page - Go quick and Like it!

Cardinal Liquor Depot Social Media:

BrewsFlash Blog

Facebook Page

Twitter Page: @LiqDepotJoliet

Sure, I explain all this verbally and make tons of excuses.  But I have not put out a legit episode since March 2020, I had not recorded a legit episode since Feb 2021, and here I am now putting out an 8 month old episode I finally finished editing.  Well, whatever, I love the guys at Brothership Brewing.  We had a great conversation and we got to hear some dope stories and drink insanely good beer.  From home brewers, right to the hearts of the SW Burbs beer nerd.  Broship has it working.

Instagram: @brothership_brewing

Facebook Search Brothership Brewing

On a mildly warm "Spring Day", that just so happen to be 420, I sat down with two super chill and super awesome dudes in the city of Chicago.  Co-Founders Kevin Lilly and David Dahl treated me to some great conversation and great beer.  They stick to what they know and what they love, and make no mistake about it, they make and love some good shit.  In a world of IPAs and Stouts, they manage to do their own thing with Rye Saisons, Sours, Triples, and a bunch of Belgium inspired beers, while still keeping a solid IPA on draft, and offering a nice Big Barrel aged stout.  They were super cool and I loved hearing about their Tech background, and you will too.  Enjoy!

Lo Rez Social Media: 

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter