Shows
Why This Beer?Crafting Beer with Birch and Heart: Cam McKeigan of Smithers BrewingIn this episode, Darren and Azlan sit down with Cam McKeigan, co-founder and head brewer of Smithers Brewing Company. Cam shares his journey from home brewing to establishing a successful brewery in Northern BC, highlighting the unique challenges and rewards of crafting beer in a small community. The conversation delves into the innovative use of birch sap in brewing, the importance of community support, and the recognition Smithers Brewing has received at national awards. Cam also discusses the creative process behind using unique ingredients and the evolving landscape of craft beer. In this engaging conversation, Cam McKeigan from Smithers...2025-07-241h 37
Why This Beer?Hops and High Trails: Brewing with Martin Szot of Coast MountainIn this conversation, Martin Szot shares his journey from growing up in a family brewery in Chile to becoming the head brewer at Coast Mountain Brewing in Canada. He discusses the evolution of craft beer styles, the importance of local ingredients, and the unique brewing techniques he employs, particularly for hazy IPAs. The conversation also touches on the cultural differences in craft beer between Chile and Canada, the significance of community support, and the personal passion that drives the craft beer industry. In this engaging conversation, Martin Szot shares his insights on the intricacies of brewing, focusing on water...2025-07-101h 20
Why This Beer?House Cultures and Hometown Malts: Mike Foniok on the Art of Brewing at EstablishmentIn this engaging conversation, Mike Foniok discusses the importance of local ingredients in brewing, innovative techniques, and the role of community in crafting unique beers. He shares insights from his recent travels to Czech Republic and Bamberg, emphasizing the cultural significance of beer and the focus on drinkability. Mike also reflects on the evolution of the Canadian brewing scene and offers valuable advice for aspiring brewers, highlighting the importance of palate development and mentorship.TakeawaysThe use of hyper-local malt enhances the beer's character.Innovative brewing techniques can lead to unique flavor...2025-06-261h 21
Why This Beer?Foam Caps and Future Lids: Packaging Tips with Brad Van Haastregt of GEC SystemsBrad Van Haastregt of GEC Systems shares his journey in the craft brewing industry, focusing on the rise of non-alcoholic options, innovations in canning technology, and the importance of quality control. He discusses the value of sourcing local parts, evolving packaging trends like super ends and new lid designs, and the need for attention to detail to deliver a top-quality product. Throughout, he highlights the collaborative nature of the industry and the drive to innovate during challenging times.The beer featured in this episode is the Tofino Brewing Kelp Stout - a favourite of Brads!2025-06-121h 15
Why This Beer?Malts, Mentors, and Mischief: A Sit Down with Graham With of Parallel 49SummaryIn this episode of Why This Beer, hosts Darren and Azlan sit down with Graham With, the Director of Brewing Operations at Parallel 49 Brewing. Graham shares his journey from home brewing to leading one of Vancouver's most recognized craft breweries. The conversation delves into the challenges of starting a brewery, the evolution of Parallel 49, and the importance of community in the craft beer industry. They also explore the Craft Pilsner, its inspiration, and the brewing techniques that make it unique. Throughout the discussion, Graham emphasizes the significance of collaboration and innovation in the brewing world, as...2025-05-151h 34
Why This Beer?Brad Tomlinson on Kveik, Raw Ales, and the Spirit of Collaboration at JackknifeIn this episode, Azlan and Darren welcome Brad Tomlinson, a passionate brewer from Jackknife, who shares his unique journey into the world of craft beer. The conversation explores Brad's early inspirations, the discovery of Kveik yeast, and the significance of traditional brewing practices showcased at the Kornøl Festival in Norway. Brad emphasizes the importance of honoring yeast cultures and sustainable practices in brewing, while also discussing his award-winning raw ale, Hunting Lodge. The episode highlights the intersection of tradition and innovation in the craft beer scene, offering insights into brewing techniques and the rich history of Kveik yeast. I...2025-05-011h 15
Why This Beer?Sustainable Systems and Data-Driven Brewing with Chris LewingtonIn this episode, Azlan and Darren welcome Chris Lewington from the Modern Brewer podcast to discuss his journey in the craft beer industry, from his early experiences in brewing to his current focus on sustainability and efficiency in brewing practices. Chris shares insights on the challenges of contract brewing, the importance of resourcefulness in brewing, and his experiences working in the British Virgin Islands. The conversation highlights the evolution of the craft beer scene, the significance of data in brewing, and practical tips for improving efficiency and sustainability in breweries. In this conversation, Chris L shares insights on brewing...2025-04-171h 36
Why This Beer?Haladuda Heritage and Lager Love: Holistic Brewing with Ben Howe of Otherlands BeerGuest: Ben Howe, Otherlands BeerMain Discussion Points:Ben’s Journey into Brewing: Ben shares how cultural heritage and personal philosophy have shaped his approach to brewing, leading to the founding of Otherlands Beer.Brewing in a Lager-Dominant Region: A look at the challenges and unique opportunities of brewing in an area where lagers reign supreme, and how Otherlands Beer stands out in the craft beer scene.Spotlight on Haladuda: A deep dive into Haladuda, its cultural roots, the creative process behind it, and how the use of Lubelski hops and de...2025-04-031h 36
Why This Beer?Brewing on the East Coast: Jeremy Taylor of 2 Crows Talks Local Malt & MoreGuest: Jeremy Taylor, Co-Founder & Head Brewer of 2 Crows BrewingTopics Discussed:Jeremy’s journey into brewing, from his first exposure to craft beer in Vancouver to moving across the country and establishing 2 Crows Brewing in Halifax.The challenges and adjustments of brewing on the East Coast, including differences in craft beer markets.The evolution of 2 Crows Brewing over nearly a decade—how the vision has shifted, what they’ve embraced that seemed unlikely in the beginning, and how their biggest-volume beers have changed.The brewery’s mixed fermentation program, including their MegaDregs collabora...2025-03-131h 08
Why This Beer?Liminal Space and Maximal Time: Tristan Stewart of Temporal Artisan AlesGuest: Tristan Stewart, Founder of Temporal Artisan AlesTopics Discussed:Tristan’s journey into brewing, from his first exposure to craft beer to his transition from nomadic brewing to establishing a permanent location for Temporal Artisan Ales.The challenges and unexpected positives of being a "nomadic" brewer and working in various setups, including his favorite and most unconventional brewing equipment.Influential beers that shaped Tristan’s brewing philosophy, including his “north-star” beers, such as Four Winds’ Wildflower Saison and Hair of the Dog’s Adambier.Tristan’s approach to barrel-aging, including favorite types of wood...2025-02-271h 29
Why This Beer?Crisp, Clean & Full of Character: Four Winds Brewing with Brent MillsGuest: Brent Mills, Co-founder of Four Winds BrewingTopics Discussed:Brent’s journey into brewing, from his first exposure to craft beer, and his time at R&B, to launching Four Winds in 2013.The opening of The Beach House in Tsawwassen’s Southlands—how it differs from the original tasting room and what guests can expect.The dynamics of running a brewery as a family business and how it has shaped Four Winds’ evolution.Four Winds’ approach to brewing, from its Belgian-inspired roots to its focus on yeast-driven ales and European-style lagers.Defining t...2025-02-061h 13
Why This Beer?Crafting Quality and Advocating Change: Dr. Euan Thomson of Raft LabsGuest: Dr. Euan Thomson, Founder and CEO of Raft LabsTopics Discussed:Euan's journey in craft beer, including his time at Phillips Brewing and harvesting a lactobacillus culture.Founding Raft Labs during the COVID-19 pandemic and their pivot to producing hand sanitizer.Horror stories of contamination points in craft breweries and how to avoid them.Optimizing beer quality beyond simply preventing contamination.A deep dive into Yellow Dog Brewing’s Squirrel Chaser and Amigos Crisp Lager.Euan’s work in harm reduction and drug policy advocacy with Each+Every and Drug Data Decoded.Key Takeaways:...2025-01-161h 14
Why This Beer?Reaching Super Saturation with Jonas Hurtig of Cabin BrewingGuest: Jonas from Cabin BrewingSummary: In this episode, Darren and Azlan sit down with Jonas from Cabin Brewing, their first guest from Alberta. Jonas shares how his passion for homebrewing evolved into co-founding Cabin Brewing and creating their flagship beer, Super Saturation. They explore Alberta’s craft beer scene, standout beers like ‘Fuego’ and ‘Sunshine Rain,’ and industry trends like higher hopping rates and smaller packaging formats. Collaboration, brewing education, and innovation are key themes throughout the conversation.What You’ll Learn:How Jonas transitioned from homebrewing to professio...2024-12-261h 12
Why This Beer?Brewing Czech Lagers and Beyond: Jeff Kurkowski of Godspeed BrewingGuest: Jeff Kurkowski, Head Brewer at Godspeed BrewingTopics Discussed:Jeff’s journey through the brewing industry, including working at multiple Ontarian breweries of various sizes.His music career and experiences touring North America with bands.Brewing Czech-inspired lagers and the creative challenges they present.Using Saaz hops and the agricultural difficulties associated with them.The craft of working with pitch-lined barrels and the re-pitching process.Exploring cask culture and its roots.British beer history and brewing with traditional ingredients.Changes and trends in the Ontarian beer industry.Fun and fulfilling aspects of...2024-12-121h 33
Why This Beer?Brewmasters and Brewery Creek: Noelle Phillips on Vancouver's Beer HistoryGuest:Noëlle Phillips, Ph.D., Professor at Douglas College and author of Brewmasters and Brewery Creek.Topics Covered:Introduction to Noëlle Phillips and Her WorkHer background as a professor at Douglas College.Overview of her new book Brewmasters and Brewery Creek: a story about independent brewing in Vancouver.Medieval Beer CultureNoëlle's interest in medieval beer culture.The historic role of beer in medieval societies.Raven's Cream Ale and Its Historical LinksDiscussion on Raven's Cream Ale.Connection to Shaftesbury Cream Ale...2024-11-281h 06
Why This Beer?Hops, History, and Faceplant Ale: Inside Nelson Brewing with Simon BarnaGuest: Simon Barna, Nelson Brewing CompanyMain Discussion Points:Simon’s Journey in the Brewing Industry: Simon takes us through his journey from a small pub in Ontario, traveling worldwide, and ultimately landing in Nelson, BC, where he has been part of the local brewing scene for over ten years.Spotlight on Faceplant Winter Ale: A deep dive into Faceplant Winter Ale, Nelson Brewing’s popular seasonal brew. Simon discusses its components, how it has evolved over time, and what makes it a local favorite.Resurrecting a Beer...2024-11-141h 01
Why This Beer?From Foraging to Foeders: Tessa Gabiniewicz on Brewing at Land and SeaGuest:Tessa Gabiniewicz, Land and Sea BrewingMain Discussion Points:Tessa’s journey in the brewing industry, including her experiences living and working in unique places across BC that influenced her career.Spotlight on Glacier Cream Ale: A discussion of Land and Sea’s popular and award-winning Glacier Cream Ale, its unique profile, and why it resonates with BC beer lovers.Foraging for ingredients: Insights into Tessa’s use of locally foraged ingredients like spruce tips and pineapple weed, including how these elements contribute to distinct flavour profiles in their beers.Collab...2024-10-3153 min
Why This Beer?Ken Beattie: Leading BC's Craft Beer Community with the GuildIn this episode, we chat with Ken Beattie, executive director of the BC Craft Brewer's Guild. Ken shares his journey in the beer industry, from his early days at Molson, to Okanagan Springs, and finally to leading the Guild. We dive into his role at the Guild, the diverse membership it serves, and the projects currently underway to support BC’s craft brewers. Ken also talks about the key challenges facing the industry today and how the Guild is fostering collaboration across Canada, working with other provinces to strengthen the craft beer community.Connect with Us:...2024-10-171h 13
Why This Beer?Sasquatch Stout & Beyond: Nick Fengler on Innovating at Old Yale BrewingGuest:Nick Fengler, Old Yale BrewingMain Discussion Points:Nick’s career in craft beer, starting at established breweries like Dead Frog Brewing.Opening new breweries, including his role in helping to launch Raven’s Brewing.Steering the ship at Old Yale Brewing and how he transitioned into his current role.Featured Beer Segment:Sasquatch StoutA discussion of the rich pedigree of Sasquatch Stout in the BC beer landscape, including its history, flavor prof...2024-10-031h 13
Why This Beer?Blonde Ambitions: Mitch Warner on Dageraad’s Belgian-Style Brewing and InnovationGuest:Mitch Warner, Dageraad BrewingMain Discussion Points:Mitch’s journey from working in the film industry to becoming a brewer in the craft beer world.The early days of brewing, where Mitch brewed copious amounts of homebrew, laying the foundation for his future in beer.An exploration of Belgian brewing traditions at Dageraad, with a focus on maintaining authenticity and quality.The intricacies of bottle conditioning and how it plays a crucial role in Dageraad's Belgian-style beers.Featured Beer Segment: Dageraad BlondeA deep dive into what makes Dageraad Bl...2024-09-191h 16
Why This Beer?Astrophysics to Ales: How Thom Riley Focuses the Islander Lager at Vancouver Island BrewingIn This Episode:Join us as we chat with Thom Riley, General Manager of Vancouver Island Brewing, about his unique journey from aspiring astrophysicist in Scotland to becoming a key figure in the craft beer world. We dive into Thom's career path, including his roles at Stanley Park Brewing and Labatts before his return to the craft scene at Vancouver Island Brewing.Thom shares his love for British rock music and how it inspires beer names, talks about the challenges of brewing new styles on an older brewhouse, and his dedication to perfecting...2024-09-051h 21
Why This Beer?Brewing A Slice of Paradise with Kerry Dyson from BREWHALLHosts: Darren Binnema & Azlan GravesGuest: Kerry Dyson, Head Brewer at Brewhall, VancouverIn this episode of Why This Beer?, Darren and Azlan sit down with Kerry Dyson, the talented head brewer at Brewhall in Vancouver. With a wealth of experience in the brewing industry and a string of award-winning beers to his name, Kerry brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the table.Episode Highlights:Slice of Paradise Yuzu Wit Beer: Kerry shares the story behind this unique and refreshing brew, discussing the...2024-08-221h 06
Why This Beer?From Jazz to Lager: Octavio Pauley's Brewing Journey at Beva Brewing and BlendingShow Notes:Guest: Octavio Pauley, Founder of Beva Brewing and BlendingEpisode Overview:In this episode, we sit down with Octavio Pauley from Beva Brewing and Blending, one of the newest breweries in North Vancouver. Octavio shares his unique transition from studying jazz to brewing award-winning lagers and pilsners.Topics Discussed:Beva Brewing’s Beginnings: An introduction to Beva Brewing and Blending, one of the newest additions to the North Vancouver craft beer scene.Octavio’s Journey: From aspiring jazz musi...2024-08-081h 07
Why This Beer?Old Jalopy to Dry Goods: Powell Brewing's Journey with David BowkettShow Notes:Guest: David Bowkett, Founder of Powell BrewingEpisode Overview:Join us as we chat with David Bowkett, the mastermind behind Powell Brewing. Discover how this brewery, which started on a nano scale system, has grown into an award-winning establishment known for its innovative and classic beers.Topics Discussed:Powell Brewing’s Origins: Learn about the humble beginnings of Powell Brewing on Powell Street in 2012, where they started on a nano scale system. Growth and Success: Powell Brewing moved to...2024-07-2544 min
Why This Beer?Unveiling the John Oliver IPA with Julia Hanlon of Steamworks BrewingShow Notes:Guest: Julia Hanlon, Head Brewer at Steamworks BrewingEpisode Overview:In this episode, we welcome Julia Hanlon from Steamworks Brewing to discuss the intricacies of their John Oliver IPA. Julia shares her unique journey from a chemical engineering background to becoming a leading figure in the BC craft beer industry.Topics Discussed:John Oliver IPA: An in-depth look at the ingredients and brewing process that make this IPA unique.Career Journey: Julia’s transition from chemical engineering to th...2024-07-111h 04
Why This Beer?The Magic Behind Main Street’s Naked Fox IPA and Cask Ale with Azlan GravesShow Notes:Guest: Azlan Graves, Head Brewer at Main Street BrewingEpisode Overview:In this episode, we sit down with Azlan Graves from Main Street Brewing to uncover the secrets behind their celebrated Naked Fox IPA. Azlan shares his fascinating journey in the craft beer world, starting from his father’s love of home brewing to his experiences at renowned breweries like Powell Brewing and Steamworks Brewing.Topics Discussed:Craft Beer Journey: Azlan talks about his early influences, his father's ho...2024-07-041h 04