In the Season 3 kickoff of the Capital of Craft podcast, we sit down with Jorge Torres—local beer writer, Brewers Guild Education Committee member, and associate producer of this very show. Jorge shares his story of growing up in Escondido, serving in the Navy, and returning home with a passion for craft beer and community connection. From volunteering at Stone Brewing to helping organize educational events for the Guild, Jorge shows that you don’t need to be a brewer to make a real impact in th...
Jun 25, 2025•27 min•Season 4Ep. 1
In this episode of the Capital of Craft Podcast, we sit down with Dan Denham, General Manager of the San Diego County Water Authority, to discuss the essential role water plays in the craft brewing industry. From the origins of San Diego’s water supply to the challenges breweries face when balancing water chemistry, we explore the vital connection between water management and beer quality. Dan shares insights into how the Water Authority ensures a sustainable future for the region’s water supply...
Apr 02, 2025•25 min•Season 2Ep. 14
Unlock the keys to financial sustainability in craft beer with Matthew Holden, brewery consultant and former co-owner of Rip Current Brewing. In this episode of the Capital of Craft Podcast, we explore the financial strategies every brewery needs to survive and thrive in today’s competitive market.From understanding costs to long-term planning, Holden shares insights on how breweries can avoid common financial pitfalls, improve profitability, and build a sustainable business model. Whether you’r...
Mar 19, 2025•24 min•Season 2Ep. 13
In this episode of the Capital Craft Podcast, we welcome Esthela Davila, the 2025 San Diego Brewers Guild President, to discuss her journey in the craft beer industry and the future of San Diego’s brewing community. Esthela shares how she got started in beer—from volunteering at festivals to leading a brewery and founding advocacy groups like Pink Boots Society and a Beer Club for Women. She opens up about the challenges of representation in craft beer, the importance of making breweries more ac...
Mar 05, 2025•24 min•Season 2Ep. 12
How can breweries and taprooms create more welcoming spaces for families and individuals with autism? In this episode of Capital of Craft, we sit down with Shahriar Afshar, Executive Director of the Autism Society San Diego, to discuss the challenges autism families face when trying to enjoy public spaces—and how breweries can take small, meaningful steps toward inclusivity.Shahriar shares insights from his personal experience as a special needs parent, the simple accommodations that can make a ...
Feb 19, 2025•27 min•Season 2Ep. 11
In this episode of Capital of Craft Podcast, hosts Erik Fowler and Jeff Fox sit down with Neva Parker, Director of Operations at White Labs, to explore her 20-year journey in craft beer—from her unexpected start in yeast science to becoming a leader in our industry. Neva shares personal stories and insights about what’s kept her passionate through decades of change, the importance of people over product, and how San Diego’s beer community can continue to thrive in a shifting market. As a returni...
Feb 05, 2025•23 min•Season 2Ep. 10
In this episode of Capital of Craft Podcast, hosts Erik Fowler and Jeff Fox welcome Jeff Lozano, Brand Ambassador for Ballast Point Brewing Company, to discuss the evolution of San Diego’s craft beer scene and the importance of building a strong community and culture within the industry.Jeff shares his inspiring journey from nursing school to becoming a key figure in craft beer, starting as a janitor and working his way through the ranks at Ballast Point. He offers unique insights into fostering...
Jan 22, 2025•30 min•Season 2Ep. 9
Hosts Erik Fowler and Jeff Fox sit down with Mack Sant from CraftMaster Stainless to delve into the critical topic of brewery preventative maintenance. With a unique background as a former brewer turned equipment specialist, Mack shares invaluable insights into keeping brewery operations running smoothly and efficiently. From the importance of proactive maintenance to the impact of cleanliness on beer quality, this conversation is a must-watch for brewery owners, brewers, and anyone involved in ...
Jan 08, 2025•24 min•Season 2Ep. 8
Join us on this episode of The Capital of Craft Podcast as we talk with historian and Brewchive curator Judith Downie. Judith shares the story behind the Brewchive at Cal State San Marcos, an archive dedicated to documenting San Diego’s vibrant beer history. From the early days of brewing to the city’s modern craft beer scene, Judith explains how the Brewchive preserves the stories, styles, and people who have shaped the industry. We also explore how San Diego’s brewing culture reflects broader ...
Dec 04, 2024•26 min
In this episode of the Capital of Craft, we sit down with Dan Imdieke, President and Co-Owner of the Cicerone Certification Program, to discuss how beer education can transform the craft beer industry. Dan shares insights from his 20-year journey in the beer world—from working at major chains like Yard House and Molson Coors to leading the charge at Cicerone, the gold standard in beer certifications. We explore the importance of beer knowledge, how it can enhance customer experiences, and why it...
Oct 30, 2024•24 min•Season 2Ep. 6
Jill Olesh, the dynamic Director of Sales at Pizza Port Brewing, joins us on this Capital of Craft Podcast episode to explore the deep currents that shape San Diego's beer culture and the broader craft beer community. From Jill's ascent within the San Diego Brewers Guild to her strategic maneuvers in the marketplace, we peel back the layers of collaboration, community, and competition that define the local and national beer scenes.Join us as we sip through the complexities of guild influence on ...
Oct 16, 2024•25 min•Ep. 5
The renowned “Beer Attorney” Candace Moon joins us once again on the Capital of Craft Podcast! This time, she’s here to talk about brewery regulatory compliance in California. This episode of the Capital Craft Podcast offers an in-depth look at navigating the legal landscape of the brewing industry. Candace breaks down regulatory compliance, clarifies the role of the California Craft Beer Association, and discusses the intricacies of managing permits and licenses for breweries. Check out the ful...
Sep 11, 2024•28 min
Join us on the Capital Craft Podcast for an insightful episode with Winslow Sawyer from Pure Project, where sustainable brewing takes center stage. Pure Project is not just crafting exceptional beers but also pioneering sustainability in the craft beer industry. Learn about their unique use of Kernza, a perennial grain that represents a significant advancement in sustainable agricultural practices. Kernza’s deep roots help sequester carbon, improve soil health, and support more sustainable farmi...
Aug 28, 2024•28 min•Season 2Ep. 3
Join us on this episode of the Capital Craft Podcast as we explore the inspiring journey of Vista’s newest craft brewery － Roadies Brewing. In this episode, we sit down with founders Sean and Diane Hilz, who share their transition from being the lifeblood of their daughter’s color guard troupe to spearheading a community-centric brewery. Nestled in the heart of Vista, California—a city renowned for its supportive craft beer culture and artisanal spirit—Roadies Brewing Co. embodies the spirit of ...
Aug 14, 2024•23 min
Kick-off Season 2 of the Capital of Craft Podcast with a captivating episode featuring Jordan Hoffart, co-founder of Black Plague Brewing. As we delve into the world of craft beer, Jordan shares invaluable insights on consumer expectations, the evolution of branding, and how to align beer offerings to meet the tastes of your target audience while expanding distribution networks and fostering strategic partnerships. Learn how Black Plague has not only adapted to changing market demands but also d...
Jul 31, 2024•30 min
As many breweries face closures and the craft beer scene in San Diego becomes increasingly challenging, this episode of the Capital Craft Podcast offers a beacon of guidance. Hosts Eric Fowler and Jeff Fox are joined by Derek Smith, a brewery consultant from Small Batch Standard, who brings critical financial insights to the table. Derek delves into how breweries can navigate the tricky waters of rising costs and market saturation, emphasizing the importance of a solid financial strategy to ensu...
Jun 26, 2024•26 min
This episode underlines Pink Boots Society's ongoing efforts to empower, educate, and create a more inclusive and supportive environment within the craft beverage industry. Join us on the latest episode of the Capital of Craft Podcast, where we sit down with Romi Rossel and Lia Garcia, co-leads of the Pink Boots Society's San Diego chapter. These trailblazers share their experiences and the initiatives of Pink Boots, dedicated to empowering women and non-binary individuals in the industry. Disco...
Jun 12, 2024•34 min
Join us on this enlightening episode of the Capital Craft Podcast, where we sit down with Dustin Hauck, Principal at Hauck Architecture. Dustin brings his extensive experience in designing spaces specifically for the craft brewery industry, focusing on the integration of kitchens into brewery environments. Whether you're planning a new brewery or looking to enhance an existing venue, this discussion sheds light on the multifaceted considerations of adding a kitchen—from operational shifts to reg...
May 30, 2024•30 min
Dive into the world of sustainable packaging with Chad Fields and Jason "JJ" Jackson from Atlantic Packaging and A New Earth Project on the Capital Craft Podcast. Explore how the brewing industry is embracing eco-friendly solutions to reduce environmental impact. This insightful episode discusses the strides being made in sustainable packaging, driven by both innovative industry leaders and changing consumer expectations. Learn about the implications of SB 54 and other environmental regulations,...
May 15, 2024•25 min
Join us on the Capital of Craft Podcast as we delve into the intricate world of hops with Steve Burchill, Southwest Region Sales Manager at Hollingbery & Son Hops and a craft beer industry veteran. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the evolving economic factors influencing hop usage and strategies for maintaining financial sustainability in brewing. Topics discussed in the podcast: ● Economic Trends in Hop Usage: How breweries are adjusting to economic pressures in hop selection. ●...
May 01, 2024•29 min
Join the Capital of Craft Podcast as we delve into the intricate world of brewery trademarks and legal hurdles with Candace Moon, from the Craft Beer Attorney. With years of specialized experience in the craft beverage industry, Candace offers a wealth of knowledge on how breweries can navigate the complex terrain of legal issues to protect their brands and streamline their operations. Topics Discussed: Trademark Basics: Explore the fundamental aspects of trademarks in the brewing industry. Comm...
Apr 17, 2024•37 min
Join the Capital of Craft Podcast as we delve into the dynamic world of craft beer sales with industry expert Cesar Torres. Discover the secrets to securing premium shelf space and taps in a constantly shifting market. From overcoming the hurdles small sales teams face to adapting post-Covid strategies, Cesar shares invaluable insights that can help your brewery thrive in San Diego and beyond. Topics discussed include: Evolving Beer Market Transition from a buyer's market to a seller's market: T...
Apr 03, 2024•27 min•Ep. 5
Join us on the Capital of Craft Podcast as we delve into the intricate world of hops with Steve Burchill, Southwest Region Sales Manager at Hollingbery & Son Hops and a craft beer industry veteran. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the evolving economic factors influencing hop usage and strategies for maintaining financial sustainability in brewing. Topics discussed in the podcast: ● Economic Trends in Hop Usage: How breweries are adjusting to economic pressures in hop selection. ●...
Apr 01, 2024•29 min
Dive into the world of hop research with Arun, an associate professor at SDSU, as we explore the fusion of science and craft beer. Uncover the transformative projects that promise to revolutionize San Diego's brewing scene, from climate-resilient hop cultivars to innovative solutions for pest resistance. Join us on this enlightening journey through academia's contribution to a more sustainable and richly flavored craft beer future.
Mar 20, 2024•32 min•Ep. 5
In this special episode of the Capital of Craft Podcast, we sit down with Jake Nunes, the 2023 President of the San Diego Brewers Guild and the Director of Hospitality for Modern Times, to discuss his two decades of experience in the local beer industry and his forward-looking vision for the Guild. Jake shares his journey from his early days in hospitality to influential roles in iconic breweries, highlighting the evolution of San Diego's beer scene and the challenges it faces today.Tune in as J...
Mar 06, 2024•21 min
Joined by Brandon Hernandez of San Diego Beer News, we unpack the essentials of building fruitful relationships between breweries and media outlets. On this episode of the Capital of Craft Podcast, Brandon Shares his expert insights on what makes brewery news newsworthy, emphasizing the importance of being proactive, communicative, and equipped with media-ready content. We also explore the challenges and opportunities inherent in media engagement, from the necessity of timeliness to the power of...
Feb 21, 2024•30 min
Lager, a style, a process, or just a term used by brewers? We sit down with Doug Hasker and Jacob Bauch, the brewing team behind Puesto Cerveceria, to discuss what makes the perfect lager from the perspective of a brewing team with decades of lager-making experience combined. With an extensive history brewing Mexican lagers, Puesto head brewer Doug shares his time-honored techniques and insight into crafting quality brews. Alongside hosts Erik and Jeff, Doug & Jacob discuss the meticulous cr...
Feb 07, 2024•27 min
Join us for a compelling discussion on one of the craft beer industry's most crucial challenges: managing outside sales for self-distributing breweries. In this dense and competitive market, smaller breweries often struggle to gain handles and shelf space. With the expertise of Marc Martin, a seasoned beer sales professional and a dedicated board member of the San Diego Brewers Guild, we dive into this complex issue. Marc brings his professional insights as we explore the top strategies that bre...
Jan 24, 2024•35 min
