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Ever wondered how a homebrewer can turn a passion into one of America’s largest craft breweries? Join us for an incredible journey as we unravel the inspiring story of Ken Grossman and the birth of Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. You'll learn about the trials and triumphs of starting a brewery on a shoestring budget, from repurposing dairy equipment to perfecting iconic brews like the Celebration IPA. We promise an episode brimming with fascinating insights into the craft beer revolution and the determination that fuels it.

But that's not all—get ready for some Olympic fever as we share our obsessions with quirky events like 3x3 basketball and kayaking. Hear our takes on memorable Olympic moments, including a Turkish shooter who gave us hitman vibes and a laid-back competitor who snagged a silver medal with one hand in his pocket. Plus, don’t miss our plans for an epic road trip to Oktoberfest in Munich, complete with live updates and a hilarious promise of seeing Andy in lederhosen!

Sustainability and innovation are also on tap as we explore how Sierra Nevada leads the way with green initiatives like hydrogen fuel cells and solar panels. Learn about their LEED Platinum Certified brewery in North Carolina and how they turn used cooking oil into biodiesel. We’ll even throw in a wild story about cocaine-filled sharks off the coast of Brazil and reflect on how well barbecue pairs with a cold Summerfest lager. Get ready for a rollercoaster of beer talk, Olympic banter, and unexpected tales. Cheers!

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Can you imagine savoring a beer that dates back to the 14th century? Join us as we celebrate Doppelbock Day and uncover the rich history of Munich's Spaten brewery, which has been crafting exceptional brews since 1397. Unfortunately, our friend Jake from Seattle couldn't join us due to an unexpected appendectomy, but we dedicate this episode to him. We promise you'll gain a newfound appreciation for Spaten's legacy and learn some fascinating tidbits about brewery culture along the way.

Tune in for a mouth-watering tasting and review of Spaten's Optima Doppelbock, a robust malt liqueur with a 7.6% ABV. With flavors reminiscent of a light Guinness, this beer's deep malty essence and nutty undertones make it perfect for a cozy autumn evening by the fire. We'll also delve into the historical significance of the malt shovels on the label and discuss the ideal occasions to enjoy this hearty brew.

Our journey doesn't stop there. We'll take you through the storied past of the Spaten-Franziskaner brewery, from its roots in 1867 to its pivotal moments like serving beer at Oktoberfest and its expansion to North America. Plus, you'll hear about a California company brewing beer with prehistoric yeast and get a taste of the unexpected as we explore viral internet sensations and the surprising success of the Florida Panthers in the NHL. Get ready for a dynamic blend of beer appreciation, cultural insights, and a dash of hockey talk!

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Have you ever wondered why the term "the lab" is thrown around so much, especially in sports? Join us as we debate its overuse and why it might just be the perfect metaphor for our podcast setting. We'll also dive into our shared passion for beer and introduce you to Half Brothers Brewing from Grand Forks, North Dakota. As we swap road trip stories and compare the monotonous and scenic routes of North Dakota and beyond, you'll discover why our journeys often culminate in the appreciation of a good brew.

Next up, we get adventurous with our taste buds! Remember that dill pickle soup experiment that left our coworkers divided? Well, we're taking it a step further by taste-testing a pickle-flavored beer from Half Brothers Brewery. Hear our candid reactions and find out whether this unique brew is a hit or miss. As we applaud Half Brothers for their creativity, we eagerly await the chance to try more of their unconventional offerings.

Finally, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of craft breweries with us. From the relaxed, family-friendly vibe of these unique spaces to the engaging community events hosted by Half Brothers Brewing, we'll highlight what makes brewery visits so special. Our discussion also spans pizza tips, baseball banter, and the quirky contracts of major sports leagues, including the infamous Bobby Bonilla deal. And don't miss our take on the NFL's Sunday Ticket monopoly and how it impacts fans. This episode is packed with personal stories, insightful discussions, and a genuine love for craft beer. Cheers!

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Ever wondered what happens when a cider house decides to shake up the craft beverage scene? Join us as we explore Schilling Hard Cider's Local Legend from Auburn, Washington, a semi-sweet cider that balances fresh-pressed apples with a not-too-sweet taste. Get ready for a playful discussion that includes everything from Sasquatch-themed can art to personal cider recommendations from the Pacific Northwest. It's more than just a drink—it’s a whole new flavorful adventure perfect for any occasion, even mowing the lawn!

But that's not all—our excitement doesn't end there. We’re thrilled to share some big news about signing a record contract, and we shift our focus to Schilling Cider's innovative hard lemonades like Imperial Pink Lemonade, Blue Raspberry Lemonade, and Guava Lemonade. We also dive into the world of yerba mate with Vita Mate, a low-calorie beverage designed to keep you energized without the coffee crash. Learn about the origins of yerba mate, its health benefits, and hear our personal tea stories and preferences.

Finally, explore the incredible expansion and innovation at Schilling Cider, co-founded by Colin Schilling and Mark Corney in 2015. Discover how they ramped up their Auburn plant to the fastest canning line in the Pacific Northwest and opened the world’s largest cider taproom with 50 taps. We reminisce about our visits to the Pacific Northwest, celebrate the community-driven spirit of craft breweries, and emphasize the importance of quality ingredients.

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Ever wondered how a Chicago-based brewery became internationally renowned? Discover the secrets behind Hop Butcher for the World's impressive growth and unique beer offerings straight from owner Jeremiah Zimmer. Join Andy Beckstrom and Sean Field in the Two Guys Beer Podcast Studio as they share exclusive insights from their interview with Jeremiah and take you through a tasting journey of Hop Butcher's exceptional IPA. With notes of ripe tropical fruits, pleasant pine, and fresh citrus, this IPA is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Get ready for an exciting exploration of Hop Butcher's dynamic expansion and engaging collaborations. Inspired by Carl Sandburg's poem "Chicago," the brewery's name and philosophy reflect the passionate spirit of traditional butchers. Learn how they engage with customers, seek feedback through festivals, and form strategic partnerships to share their craft beyond Chicago. Jeremiah provides a behind-the-scenes look at their thoughtful decisions on expanding their reach, including collaborations with restaurants, vendors, and other breweries.

Hop Butcher's journey from a local favorite to an internationally recognized brewery is nothing short of impressive. From their humble beginnings in 2014 to distributing across 30 states and internationally, discover how their strategy of organic expansion and community engagement has paid off. We also touch on the brewery's unique branding, featuring Chicago historical references and eye-catching artwork on labels. Plus, stay tuned for an exciting discussion on the latest developments in the WNBA, highlighting rising stars and rivalries that mirror historic NBA moments. Don't miss out on this compelling episode packed with insightful conversations and thrilling beer tastings!

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What if your favorite beer could also support a worthy cause? Tune in to our 24th episode of the Two Guys Beer podcast to uncover how Mikerphone Brewing not only crafts exceptional beers but also collaborates with the Elk Grove Fire Department for a charity event benefiting Project Fire Buddies. From discovering Microphone at Jack's Bottle Shop in Rochester to exploring their community-focused initiatives, we share our excitement for this Chicagoland gem. Get ready to be inspired by how this brewery blends creativity and compassion, all while brewing some of the most unique beers we've tasted.

Ever pondered what a strawberry and peanut butter jelly sandwich in beer form would taste like? We break down our tasting experience of a soft sour ale collaboration between 1840 Brewing and Mikerphone Brewing, revealing its dessert-like charm. Anticipation brews as we discuss an intriguing Belgian beer, corked and bottled like fine wine, and share our desire to visit Mikerphone in Elk Grove Village to explore more of their innovative offerings. Whether you're a fan of IPAs, ciders, or something entirely different, this episode promises a flavorful journey through craft beer's diverse landscape.

Travel mishaps, historical explorations, and hotel horrors—oh my! Our whirlwind trip to Washington, D.C., brings stories ranging from a prestigious ceremony at the National Fire Academy to the contrasting realities of travel accommodations. Plus, take a historical stroll with us through Gettysburg and Emmitsburg Road, reflecting on the Civil War's enduring impact. As always, we spice things up with fun facts (ever heard of a flamboyance of flamingos?) and vibrant beer discussions. Don't miss out on this engaging episode packed with great stories, community connections, and, of course, phenomenal craft beer recommendations. Cheers!

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Ever wondered which lager is perfect for that post-lawn mowing refreshment or which brewery is on the rise in St. Louis Park? We've got you covered! Join us as we embark on a sudsy exploration of Haggard Barrel Brewing Company, where their tales and ales have us singing praises. From the Widowmaker black ale to the Beer Before Baseball lager, we're ranking beers by style and sharing our personal picks. Plus, we'll let you in on why Schlaps Lager is quickly becoming the go-to for any outdoor occasion.

Let's face it, brewing is an art - but don't just take our word for it. This episode stirs the pot by comparing the creation of beer to the strokes of a painter's brush or a musician's score. We dive into a philosophical brew of opinions on the artistic merits of brewing, while savoring the innovative Glonky, a smoothie-style sour ale that shows off its environmental creds with the sustainable Kernza grain. And of course, we won't leave you hanging on the question of whether golf course design or an athlete's swing might just be another form of artistic expression.

Wrapping up, we're buzzing with excitement about Hazard Brewery's future plans and growth. Their knack for crafting exceptional lagers with gently used equipment is something to keep an eye on. We're plotting a return visit in the summer and might just bring the brewery owners onto the podcast for a chat. So, grab a pint of Hazard Brewery's finest and join us for an episode that hops between laughter, environmental stewardship, and the sheer joy of craft brewing. Cheers to the stories that grow with every pour!

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Grab a glass and settle in as we explore the unconventional path taken by Chicago's own Pipeworks Brewing. In an industry where the taproom reigns supreme, these brewers have flipped the script, opting for an off-premise tasting and shopping extravaganza. We'll navigate the impact of this choice on their brand in the bustling craft beer market, all while keeping the conversation as bubbly as the beers we adore. And to those not yet of legal sip-age, fear not, for there's plenty of frothy knowledge to soak up that requires no ID.

Ever wondered if a unicorn could be your drinking buddy? We'll whisk you away to a place where the line between myth and ale blurs. Our journey with Pipeworks Brewing isn't just about the liquid gold in our glasses; it's a romp through the whimsy of their beer names, the nostalgia-evoking can designs, and a brewery ethos steeped in community and creativity. We'll even detour through the fantastical, from unicorn lore to the unique traditions of Lake Superior State University's unicorn questing. By the end of our chat, you might just believe in the magical connection between storytelling, brewing, and the occasional sparkle.

We wrap up our session with a toast to the quirky and the quaint, from the snowman burning ritual bidding winter adieu to the refreshing burst of Mini Unicorn Pale Ale that chases away our thirst. Pipeworks Brewing demonstrates that the craft beer experience is more than what's poured into a pint glass—it's a tapestry woven with innovation, tradition, and a sprinkle of the extraordinary. So join us on this offbeat expedition through the sudsy realms of craft beer, where every sip tells a story and every story is worth the pour. Cheers to the journey!