In this episode of Creativity on Tap, host Frank Sentwali sits down with Phil Steger, founder and CEO of Brother Justus Whiskey Company, to discuss the art of whiskey-making, innovation, and the deeper philosophy behind his work. A former attorney, activist, and theologian, Phil’s path has been anything but conventional—his journey includes smuggling humanitarian aid into war zones, preserving endangered manuscripts, and redefining the craft whiskey industry.
Phil shares how his reverence for Minnesota’s land and whiskey history inspired him to create something truly unique. Under his leadership, Brother Justus has developed patent-pending whiskey-making techniques, launched the first unaged single malt whiskey in the world, and built a whiskey brand that blends tradition with bold reinvention.
Throughout the conversation, Frank and Phil explore themes of thoughtful innovation, storytelling in business, and what it means to align personal values with entrepreneurship. Whether you're a whiskey enthusiast, a creative entrepreneur, or just love a good story, this episode will give you a new appreciation for the craft behind the bottle.
About COMPAS
COMPAS (compas.org) is a nonprofit with 50 years of experience delivering creative experiences to millions of Minnesotans of all ages and abilities, particularly those from historically marginalized communities. COMPAS connects professional teaching artists with students, older adults, and other community members to inspire creativity and empower voices.
About Creativity on Tap
Creativity on Tap is produced by COMPAS. In each episode, Creativity on Tap brings together educators, entrepreneurs, elected officials, parents, and other community leaders to discuss creativity and answer the question: What is creativity, and how can it solve the unique challenges facing today's world?
Creativity On Tap is part of Creativity Saves the World, an initiative led by COMPAS to explore, celebrate, and emphasize the pivotal role creativity can and must play in shaping a world that prioritizes equity, justice, and inclusivity.
Theme music, "Krank It," was produced by COMPAS Teaching Artist Bionik.
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