Consuming the Craft

 In today's episode, I had the pleasure of catching up with Anthony Horger, a former AB Tech program graduate. We dived into his impressive journey from a local brewery job post-graduation to his various roles in distilleries and breweries, ultimately leading to his current position as an industry trainer for food, beverage, and natural products at North Carolina BioNetwork. Anthony also shared invaluable insights into the often-overlooked aspect of supply chain management and how critical supplier controls are to maintaining a safe and efficient production environment. Anthony has a rich background in the food and beverage industry. He started his career as a pastry chef and transitioned into brewing and distilling. His path led him from a local craft brewery through innovative and sometimes perilous projects in startup distilleries to working for a large manufacturer owned by Budweiser in San Diego and finally back to Asheville. His varied experiences have uniquely positioned him as an expert in industry training, where he focuses on sanitation, HACCP planning, and supplier controls. "It feels good to keep people safe. When you can help improve these things, you'll see the light go on in many people's heads." ~Anthony Horger Today on Consuming the Craft: • Anthony began his career as a pastry chef before moving into brewing and distilling.• After graduation, he worked at a local brewery and a startup distillery focused on speed aging technology.• Anthony then moved to San Diego to work at a Budweiser-owned distillery just as the world started changing due to the pandemic.• He gained valuable insights into the importance of safety and proper sanitation during his time in San Diego.• Anthony now works as an industry trainer for North Carolina BioNetwork, focusing on food, beverage, and natural products.• Supplier controls involve more than just taking a supplier's word; they require audits and sometimes personal visits to ensure compliance with safety standards.• Certifications like SQF are important for ensuring quality and safety in the supply chain.• Continuous improvement and corrective actions are vital metrics for evaluating the reliability and safety of a supplier. Resources Mentioned: • North Carolina BioNetwork• McConnell Farms Contact Anthony: • LinkedIn: Anthony Horger• North Carolina BioNetwork WebsiteThis episode is brought to you by… McConnell Farms - Taste the Way You Remember. Enjoy homemade ciders and ice cream made from only the best produce on the market. Visit the McConnell Farms website to learn more about our seasonal inventory and the delicious creations you can make with our homegrown produce. Consuming the Craft Thanks for tuning into this week’s Consuming the Craft Podcast episode, brought to you by AB Tech’s Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | GooglePlay  Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more craft beverage enthusiasts. To learn more about AB Tech and the Craft Beer Institute of the Southeast, visit our website.

Today, on Consuming the Craft, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with Jeffrey Rickert, a graduate of our program who has shifted his focus from brewing to food safety education. Jeffrey is now actively working to ensure the safety of food and beverages across North Carolina through the NC BioNetwork. Our conversation covered everything from his journey post-graduation to his current role in training businesses on allergen safety and food handling practices. Jeffrey shared how his passion for training others in the brewing industry perfectly fit his new career path. Through NC BioNetwork, he helps a wide range of businesses, including breweries, beverage producers, and even cosmetics manufacturers, navigate the complexities of food safety. His expertise has become invaluable, especially in understanding and mitigating allergen risks within the industry.  "If it comes in contact with our skin or we eat it, you guys help the folks figure out what's wrong." ~Jeffrey Rickert Today on Consuming the Craft: ·     Jeffrey Rickert graduated in 2016 and initially worked in a yeast production facility, ultimately becoming a head brewer at a local craft brewery.·     He now works with NC BioNetwork, providing food safety education to various industries across North Carolina, including breweries and cosmetics manufacturers.·     The U.S. recognizes nine major allergens, while the UK recognizes fourteen, and Japan has about twenty.·     Proper cleaning and testing for allergens in brewing equipment are crucial to prevent severe allergic reactions.·     The NC BioNetwork offers training on food safety systems like HACCP and preventative controls for human food.·     There's funding available in North Carolina for companies interested in food safety training through local community colleges.·     New and emerging beverages may have different properties that present unique safety challenges, such as lower alcohol content and higher residual sweetness.·     Proper documentation and TTB approval are necessary for using non-standard ingredients in brewing. Resources Mentioned: NC BioNetworkFDA's draft guidance on food safetyTTB and generally recognized as safe (GRAS) lists Contact Jeffrey: NC BioNetwork This episode is brought to you by… McConnell Farms - Taste the Way You Remember. Enjoy homemade ciders and ice cream made from only the best produce on the market. Visit the McConnell Farms website to learn more about our seasonal inventory and the delicious creations you can make with our homegrown produce. Consuming the Craft Thanks for tuning into this week’s Consuming the Craft Podcast episode, brought to you by AB Tech’s Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | GooglePlay  Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more craft beverage enthusiasts. To learn more about AB Tech and the Craft Beer Institute of the Southeast, visit our website. 

Today on Consuming the Craft, I sat down with Julian, the founder of Outsider Brewing Company, to discuss his unique perspective on the craft brewery business model. Julian shared his insights on the challenges and drawbacks of pursuing large-scale growth in the industry, advocating instead for smaller, more resilient business models that focus on market development and building strong customer relationships.Co-founder of Outsider, Julian caught the brewing bug at the young age of 17, brewing batches in his basement. From there, he fell in love with beer and brewing and never looked back. After graduating from McGill University in Montreal, Canada, he moved to Vancouver for his first brewing gig. In those years, he learned that brewing is more than just making good beer; it also involves sharing it with others.He eventually moved to North Carolina and became a head brewer at the age of 23. It was during that time he first began dreaming of a way to showcase the beauty of brewing & beer to people. The first iterations of the glass system were born in 2017 and were very small; it was taken on hikes, to parks, and rock-climbing fields. He brewed small batches as hikers & climbers passed by and answered their questions about what the heck he was doing. After this proof of concept, he began working on designing a full-blown commercial glass brewing system, and Outsider Brewing was born."Our tap room is interactive and open to collaborations with other breweries. We have an upcoming collaboration with Noble cider to create a beer mead hybrid, which is really exciting." ~JulianToday on Consuming the Craft:·     Large-scale growth may not be the best aspiration for craft breweries; smaller, resilient business models are more sustainable.·     Educating consumers about the beer-making process and the challenges faced by small-scale breweries is crucial.·     Collaborations with other breweries, such as the upcoming beer mead hybrid with Noble cider, foster innovation and creativity.·     Julian's journey from homebrewing to establishing Outsider Brewing Company showcases the importance of passion and perseverance in the craft.·     The synergy between bartenders and brewers at Outsider Brewing Company creates a unique and interactive experience for customers.·     The tap room serves as a platform to build a community around the craft and share the passion for brewing with others.·     Transparency in the brewing process and the personal connection consumers feel with the product set Outsider Brewing Company apart.·     Outsider Brewing Company's success, despite challenges like bad weather, demonstrates the strength of their community and the appeal of their unique approach. Contact Julian:Outsider Brewing Company This episode is brought to you by… McConnell Farms - Taste the Way You Remember. Enjoy homemade ciders and ice cream made from only the best produce on the market. Visit the McConnell Farms website to learn more about our seasonal inventory and the delicious creations you can make with our homegrown produce. Consuming the Craft Thanks for tuning into this week’s Consuming the Craft Podcast episode, brought to you by AB Tech’s Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | GooglePlay  Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more craft beverage enthusiasts. To learn more about AB Tech and the Craft Beer Institute of the Southeast, visit our website.

Today on Consuming the Craft, I had an insightful conversation with Sarah Stender Delaney, a visionary beverage creator who recently returned from a trip to Rwanda. We explored her plans to work with reusable glass bottles and local fruits, her dedication to building relationships with farmers, and the cultural differences in drink preferences. Sarah also shared her exciting plans to unveil a new product soon and her involvement in sourcing high-quality teas and botanicals from Rwanda.Sarah Stender Delaney is a passionate beverage enthusiast with a keen eye for unique flavors and a commitment to sustainability. Her experience in the industry has led her to recognize the importance of fostering strong relationships with local farmers and understanding the nuances of different markets. With a background in mindful consumption and a dedication to self-care, Sarah brings a fresh perspective to the craft beverage world."Self-care and taking care of others is essential in the bartending and brewery industry, including awareness of potential risks for customers and colleagues." ~Sarah Stender DelaneyToday on Consuming the Craft:·     Aluminum recycling infrastructure is lacking, and Sarah plans to work with reusable glass bottles and local fruits.·     Building relationships with local farmers is essential for sourcing high-quality ingredients.·     Understanding local flavor preferences and cultural differences in drink preferences is crucial for success in different markets.·     Sarah is involved in sourcing high-quality teas and botanicals from Rwanda, including black, green, and white tea from the northern province and herbs from a small farm in the western province.·     The cohort model in education fosters a tight-knit community and support network, with classes building on each other.·     Self-care and taking care of others is vital in the bartending and brewery industry, including awareness of potential risks for customers and colleagues.·     Recognizing potential addiction and unhealthy consumption habits is essential, and addressing them sensitively is crucial.·     Delaying exposure to substances until the brain is fully developed can help prevent addiction tendencies.Contact Sarah Stender Delaney:• Cirilla (Rwandan beverage company) Resources Mentioned:• Quasa (first craft brewery in Rwanda)• McConnell Farms (for carbonation) This episode is brought to you by… McConnell Farms - Taste the Way You Remember. Enjoy homemade ciders and ice cream made from only the best produce on the market. Visit the McConnell Farms website to learn more about our seasonal inventory and the delicious creations you can make with our homegrown produce. Consuming the CraftThanks for tuning into this week’s Consuming the Craft Podcast episode, brought to you by AB Tech’s Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.Apple Podcasts | GooglePlay  Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more craft beverage enthusiasts. To learn more about AB Tech and the Craft Beer Institute of the Southeast, visit our website.

 In today's episode, I had the joy of sharing a special tasting experience with my seven-year-old daughter, BooBear. We explored the world of water flavors, indulging in Woo's Clues, where BooBear sampled different types of bottled water. We discussed how various waters can have distinct tastes and how kids' taste buds differ from those of adults. It was an enlightening and entertaining session filled with honest, heartwarming impressions from BooBear.BooBear is my delightful and perceptive seven-year-old daughter. Known for her adventurous yet discerning palate, BooBear has previously helped me in our segment called Moo's Clues, where she compared different types of milk. In this episode, she lends her taste buds once again to explore the surprisingly diverse flavors of bottled water. Despite her young age, BooBear understands that kids have more sensitive taste buds than adults and is always eager to lend her taste testing expertise."It tastes gross, like not normal water that I've tasted." ~ BooBearToday on Consuming the Craft:·     Different types of bottled water can have varied flavors due to their mineral content and sources.·     Children's taste buds are more sensitive than those of adults, impacting their flavor preferences.·     BooBear identified flavors in water that adults typically wouldn't notice, such as lemon and lime undertones.·     Purified water from specific brands was favored due to its neutral and familiar taste.·     The surprising taste of dark, alkaline water and its impact on the throat highlighted BooBear's detailed sensory perception.·     BooBear enjoys a variety of flavors but prefers sweeter tastes due to her age.·     The inherent differences in water properties from different regions or brands can make significant differences in taste.·     The experience can educate young ones about the complexity and science behind every day consumables like water.Resources Mentioned:McConnell Farms This episode is brought to you by… McConnell Farms - Taste the Way You Remember. Enjoy homemade ciders and ice cream made from only the best produce on the market. Visit the McConnell Farms website to learn more about our seasonal inventory and the delicious creations you can make with our homegrown produce. Consuming the Craft Thanks for tuning into this week’s Consuming the Craft Podcast episode, brought to you by AB Tech’s Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | GooglePlay  Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more craft beverage enthusiasts. To learn more about AB Tech and the Craft Beer Institute of the Southeast, visit our website.

In today's episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Mike Shield, a dedicated brewer with a wealth of experience at various breweries. We explored his journey in the brewing industry, discussed the finer points of beer production, and shared his insights on maintaining product consistency while navigating the complexities of the supply chain. Mike also illuminated the challenges and rewards of working in both small and large brewery settings, offering valuable advice to aspiring brewers.Mike Shield graduated in May 2020 from a brewing program he started in 2018. He began his career with an internship at Highwire, landed a job at Wedge, and has since spent two years at Highland Brewing Company, where he transitioned from the cellar to the brewing deck. Mike is passionate about beer, particularly lagers and IPAs, and emphasizes the importance of sensory analysis and finding peace with repetitive tasks in brewing."Yeast management is both an art and a science, requiring genius and rigorous algorithms."Today on Consuming the Craft:·     Sensory sessions can be challenging but are essential in refining a brewer's palate and maintaining quality control.·     Larger breweries must adapt to changing growing seasons and ingredient variations to maintain consistency.·     Working in a small brewery allows for greater involvement in the end product, while larger breweries focus on repetitive tasks and team culture.·     Yeast management is complex and crucial, demanding high precision and advanced tools like cellometers and PCR kits.·     Avoiding production downtime and ensuring product quality involve comprehensive cross-training and a robust production schedule.·     Expanding distribution without proper marketing and sales support can negatively impact customer experience due to product shelf life.·     The craft beer scene in Argentina and Chile is growing, offering potential collaboration opportunities.·     Continuous learning is vital in the ever-evolving brewing industry, challenging the concept of 'Master Brewer.'Resources Mentioned:• Michter's Small Batch Bourbon• Contact Mike: Highland Brewing Company This episode is brought to you by… McConnell Farms - Taste the Way You Remember. Enjoy homemade ciders and ice cream made from only the best produce on the market. Visit the McConnell Farms website to learn more about our seasonal inventory and the delicious creations you can make with our homegrown produce. Consuming the Craft Thanks for tuning into this week’s Consuming the Craft Podcast episode, brought to you by AB Tech’s Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | GooglePlay  Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more craft beverage enthusiasts. To learn more about AB Tech and the Craft Beer Institute of the Southeast, visit our website. 

In today's episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Wylie DiaMond, a passionate distiller and recent graduate, to discuss his journey through the world of spirits, including single malt, gin, and whiskey. Wylie shared the exciting news about his company's expansion in their whiskey program, including a new barrel selection initiative that allows consumers to indulge in custom flavor profiles. We also touched on Wylie's impressive background, from salmon fishing in Alaska to completing his captain's license program, as well as his plans for the future and his burgeoning interest in coaching football. Wylie DiaMond is a recent graduate as of May 2024, with a strong interest in distillation. During his education, he interned at a local distillery called the Chemist and pursued a captain's licensing program. Before diving into the distillation world, Wylie worked as a salmon fisherman in Alaska for five years. His journey through the AB Tech brewing, distillation, and fermentation program has been marked by dedication and a passion for the craft. Now working at the Chemist, Wylie continues to develop his expertise in creating distilled beverages. "The idea of consumers being part of the whiskey production process  is incredibly exciting and revolutionary." ~Wylie DiaMond Today on Consuming the Craft: ·     Wylie's company is expanding its whiskey program and has introduced a barrel selection initiative for custom flavor profiles.·     Consumer involvement in whiskey production is a novel and engaging concept.·     Wylie’s background includes working as a salmon fisherman and pursuing a captain's licensing program.·     Wylie interned and now works at a local distillery called the Chemist, furthering his knowledge in distillation.·     Pursuing the AB Tech brewing, distillation, and fermentation program was challenging yet rewarding for Wylie.·     Wylie is considering getting involved with coaching football, though Puff advises him on the importance of mental health breaks.·     Puff also covered the job opportunities in the spirits industry and Wylie's potential future plans.  Resources Mentioned: • The Distillery: The Chemist• Monkey 47 Gin• Old Edwards HotelThis episode is brought to you by… McConnell Farms - Taste the Way You Remember. Enjoy homemade ciders and ice cream made from only the best produce on the market. Visit the McConnell Farms website to learn more about our seasonal inventory and the delicious creations you can make with our homegrown produce. Consuming the Craft Thanks for tuning into this week’s Consuming the Craft Podcast episode, brought to you by AB Tech’s Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | GooglePlay  Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more craft beverage enthusiasts. To learn more about AB Tech and the Craft Beer Institute of the Southeast, visit our website.  

 In today's episode, I had the pleasure of catching up with John Lyda, a celebrated faculty member at AB Tech and, perhaps, an accidental fashionista, with our mutual thoughts on jorts. We recorded live from the AVL Beer Expo at Battery Park in Asheville, where we discussed everything from the hustle and heat of the event to the educational endeavors of our students in the brewing, distillation, and fermentation program. John shared insights on the broad array of internships our students undertake, aimed at providing real-world experience to complement their classroom learning.John Lyda has been a cornerstone in the brewing education community. With his extensive background and on-the-ground experience, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of many budding beverage professionals. His commitment to hands-on learning and his personable approach makes him an invaluable asset to the Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast at AB Tech."We try to keep it where they don't do the packaging, the whole internship.  Learn a little bit more." ~ PuffToday on Consuming the Craft:·     The AVL Beer Expo at Battery Park in Asheville played host to our lively conversation about the craft beverage industry.·     AB Tech's brewing, distillation, and fermentation program offers students a 250-mile radius to find internships after their first year.·     Internships are designed to provide a rotation of roles so students can explore different facets of the industry, including quality control, marketing, and sales.·     The ultimate goal of the internships is not just about learning but also about job placement, often resulting in job offers post-internship.·     The only two-year degree in the country for an Associate of Applied Science in Brewing, Distillation, and Fermentation is offered at AB Tech.·     Students who excel during their internships often land jobs and continue to work during their second year of the program, adding substantial experience to their resumes.·     The Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast offers tours and utilizes commercial equipment to provide hands-on training for students.·     The college aims to ensure students are well-rounded professionals ready for the craft beverage industry through rigorous coursework and practical experience.Resources Mentioned:• Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast at AB Tech This episode is brought to you by… McConnell Farms - Taste the Way You Remember. Enjoy homemade ciders and ice cream made from only the best produce on the market. Visit the McConnell Farms website to learn more about our seasonal inventory and the delicious creations you can make with our homegrown produce. Consuming the Craft Thanks for tuning into this week’s Consuming the Craft Podcast episode, brought to you by AB Tech’s Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | GooglePlay  Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more craft beverage enthusiasts. To learn more about AB Tech and the Craft Beer Institute of the Southeast, visit our website.

In today's episode, I enjoyed catching up with Katie Black, a 2022 alum of AB Tech's program and an all-around craft beverage enthusiast. We discussed her journey through the industry, from helping to establish the Artifact Cider Project to her roles in Ed Orion Distillery to her current adventures at Dssolvr. Katie shared insights on the diverse range of fermentation practices at Dssolvr and the exciting developments in the craft cider world.Katie has been an integral part of the local craft beverage scene, with a career spanning cider, wine, and even distilling. Her passion led her to become a certified Pommelier through the American Cider Association. In addition to her professional roles, Katie is dedicated to advocacy and community work, serving as a co-lead in the Western North Carolina chapter of the Pink Boots Society."For me, I fell in love with craft beverage, living in Europe. But I didn’t realize what the craft industry could give me until I was in this program."Today on Consuming the Craft:·     Katie graduated in 2022 with rich experience in craft beverage roles.·     She pioneered at Artifact Cider Project and moved back to Asheville to be closer to the community.·     Dssolvr, Katie’s current workplace, is not limited to beer; they ferment hard tea, wine, ciders, meads, beer, and seltzer.·     Katie is a certified Pommelier with extensive knowledge of cider history and production.·     She’s actively involved in the Pink Boots Society, which has expanded to include all women and non-binary folks in the beverage industry.·     Katie has vast experience in taproom management, backend chemistry, and production.·     Dssolvr is expanding and preparing for new and exciting projects, including a new cocktail bar.·     The fermentation knowledge across different beverages can be universally applied but customized to each unique process.Contact Katie: Dssolvr Brewing CompanyResources Mentioned:Dssolvr Brewing CompanyAmerican Cider AssociationPink Boots Society This episode is brought to you by… McConnell Farms - Taste the Way You Remember. Enjoy homemade ciders and ice cream made from only the best produce on the market. Visit the McConnell Farms website to learn more about our seasonal inventory and the delicious creations you can make with our homegrown produce. Consuming the CraftThanks for tuning into this week’s Consuming the Craft Podcast episode, brought to you by AB Tech’s Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.Apple Podcasts | GooglePlay  Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more craft beverage enthusiasts. To learn more about AB Tech and the Craft Beer Institute of the Southeast, visit our website.

Today, on Consuming the Craft, I was thrilled to have Karis Roberts from the Asheville Brewers Alliance join me to discuss the vibrant and highly anticipated Asheville Beer Week. We discussed the planned events, the involvement of various local non-profits, and the community's concerted efforts toward diversification and inclusion in the brewing industry. Karis shared fascinating insights into the strategic arrangements for the week, from neighborhood-specific events to educational tours at local institutions.Karis Roberts, our guest today, is a key figure in the Asheville Brewers Alliance. Her work primarily fosters a collaborative community within Asheville's brewing scene. Karis's efforts are instrumental in organizing Asheville Beer Week, aiming to highlight the region's rich brewing culture and promote diversity within the industry."With your ticket, you not only have access to samples from beverage producers, but also educational sessions with North Carolina brewers guild." — Karis RobertsToday on Consuming the Craft:·     Asheville Beer Week is a highly anticipated event with many neighborhood activities.·     The kickoff event involves significant contributions to non-profits, intertwining community support with festive celebrations.·     Educational components are substantial, with organized tours and talks aimed at professionals and enthusiasts.·     The event promotes a sense of community by encouraging participation in various facets, from volunteering to attending educational sessions.·     Networking opportunities abound throughout the week, benefiting attendees in tangible ways such as collaborative projects and shared resources.·     Special events like drag brunches and relay races add unique flavors to the week while supporting local charities.·     There's a strong emphasis on education, with sessions on brewing techniques, industry trends, and regulatory discussions designed to enrich participants' knowledge.Resources Mentioned:- Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing and Distilling- Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast- North Carolina Craft Beverage Museum Connect with Karis Roberts: ●     Asheville Brewers Alliance●     Asheville Brewers Alliance on Twitter●     Asheville Brewers Alliance on Instagram●     Asheville Brewers Alliance on Facebook●     Karis Roberts on LinkedIn●     Email: KarisRoberts.ABA@gmail.comJoin us next time on Consuming the Craft as we continue to explore the intricate tapestry of the craft beverage industry, spotlighting those who pour their passion into every pint. Consuming the Craft Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Consuming the Craft Podcast, brought to you by AB Tech’s Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts  Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more craft beverage enthusiasts. To learn more about AB Tech and the Craft Beer Institute of the Southeast, visit our website.