WINTER 2022 | 11/29 + 11/30 | SANTA MONICA
This is a past event. Replay all presentations and view upcoming events.

Set Your Brewery Up For Success in 2023

On November 29th and 30th, the beer and beverage-alcohol industry will come together in Santa Monica to collaborate, make connections, and forge lasting relationships. The event mixes high-profile speakers and informative panels with sampling and networking opportunities. 

Brewbound Live’s two-day program boils down all aspects of the beer business so you can keep up (and stay ahead) between batches. Take a deep dive into innovation, investment, retailing, and the key opportunities and trends that will enable growth within the beer business and beyond.

Brewbound Live Winter 2022 Speakers

Our community is driven by the craft, an entrepreneurial spirit, and the desire to create something that brings people together. We are honored to have expert speakers join us to share stories, insights, and advice that allow founders, executives, and decision makers to forge ahead with confidence.

  • Jennifer Briggs, Former CEO, Modern Times, Chief Experience Officer, Craft 'Ohana, - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Jennifer Briggs

    Former CEO, Modern Times, Chief Experience Officer, Craft 'Ohana,

  • Garrett Marrero, CEO & Co-Founder, Maui Brewing - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Garrett Marrero

    CEO & Co-Founder, Maui Brewing

  • Carrie Yunker, Executive Vice President, Bell's Brewery - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Carrie Yunker

    Executive Vice President, Bell's Brewery

  • Greg Gallagher, VP Brand Marketing, Modelo, Constellation Brands - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Greg Gallagher

    VP Brand Marketing, Modelo, Constellation Brands

  • Sara Goucher, Director of eCommerce, North America, Molson Coors - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Sara Goucher

    Director of eCommerce, North America, Molson Coors

    Sara Goucher, Director of eCommerce, North America, Molson Coors - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Sara Goucher

    Director of eCommerce, North America, Molson Coors

    Sara Welch Goucher leads the US eCommerce business at Molson Coors Beverage Company. In her tenure at MCBC, the eCommerce channel has grown triple digits and become one of the top growth drivers for the company. She joined MCBC in 2018 after 10 years with Kimberly-Clark Corporation, where she worked in sales, brand marketing, global marketing, and eCommerce. When not slinging suds on the internet, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, salsa dancing, traveling, and watching documentaries. Sara lives in the Chicagoland area with her husband and 2 small children. Sara graduated with a degree in Business Administration from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

  • Jessica Muskey, VP of Craft and Innovation, Reyes Beer Division - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Jessica Muskey

    VP of Craft and Innovation, Reyes Beer Division

  • Rich Bloomfield, Co-Founder, Funkytown Brewery - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Rich Bloomfield

    Co-Founder, Funkytown Brewery

  • Mary Guiver, Global Principle Category Merchant Beer & Spirits, Whole Foods - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Mary Guiver

    Global Principle Category Merchant Beer & Spirits, Whole Foods

    Mary Guiver, Global Principle Category Merchant Beer & Spirits, Whole Foods - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Mary Guiver

    Global Principle Category Merchant Beer & Spirits, Whole Foods

    With 16+ plus years in the grocery retail landscape, including over a decade of emphasis on category management in an industry-leading chain retailer for adult beverage, Mary Guiver’s dynamic background at Whole Foods Market Inc provides a unique blend of retail insights. As the Principle Global Category Merchant for Beer & Spirits she continues to grow the WFM program through commitment to artisanal, local and innovative products, alongside a steadfast focus on quality standards and consumer demands. With a keen eye for industry trends and a collaborative approach to chain retail, Mary is able to elaborate on the inner strategies and continued evolution of one of the top chain retailers in the market.

  • Bart Watson, Chief Economist, Brewers Association - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Bart Watson

    Chief Economist, Brewers Association

  • Danelle Kosmal, Vice President of Research, Beer Institute - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Danelle Kosmal

    Vice President of Research, Beer Institute

  • Haidar Hachem, Co-Owner and Head Brewer, Shojo Beer Co. - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Haidar Hachem

    Co-Owner and Head Brewer, Shojo Beer Co.

    Haidar Hachem, Co-Owner and Head Brewer, Shojo Beer Co. - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Haidar Hachem

    Co-Owner and Head Brewer, Shojo Beer Co.

    Shojo Beer Co. is a Nicaraguan & Lebanese inspired brewery with a Japanese aesthetic. Our goal is to show the world our story through our beers and art incorporating flavors found in our cultures, heritage and most importantly memories from our countries and growing up in an immigrant household. We also involve our community in our efforts by hosting fundraisers for every new beer release supporting various local and global charities and collecting supplies for those in need.

  • Adam Bankovich, Chief Commercial Officer, Rhinegeist/RGBevs - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Adam Bankovich

    Chief Commercial Officer, Rhinegeist/RGBevs

  • Beny Ashburn, CEO and co-founder, Crowns & Hops Brewing Co. - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Beny Ashburn

    CEO and co-founder, Crowns & Hops Brewing Co.

  • Dustin Hinz, CMO, Firestone Walker - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Dustin Hinz

    CMO, Firestone Walker

  • Ryan Lake, Director, Arlington Capital Advisors - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Ryan Lake

    Director, Arlington Capital Advisors

  • Elizabeth Isenbart, Director of National Accounts, JuneShine - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Elizabeth Isenbart

    Director of National Accounts, JuneShine

  • Jamie Wideman, VP of Innovation, North America, Molson Coors - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Jamie Wideman

    VP of Innovation, North America, Molson Coors

    Jamie Wideman, VP of Innovation, North America, Molson Coors - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Jamie Wideman

    VP of Innovation, North America, Molson Coors

    Jamie joined Molson Coors in 2020 to lead the North American Innovation team. An accomplished marketing executive with nearly 20 years’ experience in CPG, including the wine and spirits industry, Jamie has a knack for developing consumer-centric strategies and business solutions that produce growth. In her year at Molson Coors, Jamie has unleashed Topo Chico Hard Seltzer, Simply Spiked Lemonade and more into the market, and is extending Molson Coors’ innovation pipeline into new segments that deliver on the company’s transformation from a legacy brewer to a beverage company. Jamie earned a B.A. in Liberal Arts & Sciences from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and a Masters of Business Administration from DePaul University, Chicago Illinois.

  • Soham Bhatt, Co-Founder, Artifact Cider Project - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Soham Bhatt

    Co-Founder, Artifact Cider Project

    Soham Bhatt, Co-Founder, Artifact Cider Project - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Soham Bhatt

    Co-Founder, Artifact Cider Project

    Soham Bhatt launched Artifact Cider Project in 2014 with the goal to make unique, terroir-driven ciders accessible to everyone. Artifact Cider recently launched a spin-off of fan-favorite brand Feels Like Home Craft Cider expanding their juicy and accessible offerings. Having a former career in biotechnology engineering, Soham merges his passions for food, art, and culture with his technical background to create sophisticated ciders for the everyday palate. In 2020, Soham was elected to the Board of Directors of the American Cider Association. He lives in Cambridge, MA with his wife, two children, and fiesty pup Jules.

  • LeAnn Darland, Co-Founder, Talea Beer Co. - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    LeAnn Darland

    Co-Founder, Talea Beer Co.

    LeAnn Darland, Co-Founder, Talea Beer Co. - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    LeAnn Darland

    Co-Founder, Talea Beer Co.

    LeAnn Darland’s love for beer and dream of owning a brewery was first ignited while stationed in San Diego, serving in the US Navy as a Signals Intelligence Officer. Living in this popular craft beer destination, LeAnn was inspired by the casual, communal vibe of local taprooms. After five years of naval service, LeAnn used her Masters in Finance and MBA to pursue a career in corporate finance at Google. She began homebrewing and cold-emailing breweries to see if she could work for free and learn about the business in exchange. Unfortunately, no breweries responded, but during this time, LeAnn was serendipitously introduced to the founder of Hopsy, who was in the beginning stages of fundraising for the craft beer delivery company. LeAnn joined the Hopsy team full time as the Head of Finance and later interviewed and convinced Tara Hankinson, her future TALEA co-founder, to join. Once colleagues, the two found that they had a mutual dream of opening a brewery of their own and serving easy-to-love beers. Within three months of meeting, TALEA Beer Co. was born.

  • Danny Brager, 3 Tier Beverages, In Partnership with NielsenIQ - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Danny Brager

    3 Tier Beverages, In Partnership with NielsenIQ

    Danny Brager, 3 Tier Beverages, In Partnership with NielsenIQ - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Danny Brager

    3 Tier Beverages, In Partnership with NielsenIQ

    Danny Brager has a wealth of experience in the Beverage Alcohol industry, seeing many trends come and stay, but others come and then die. He is the former Senior Vice President of Nielsen’s Beverage Alcohol Practice Area in the United States, where for close to 20 years he led teams that supported relationships with Nielsen’s many Beer, Wine, and Spirits clients (suppliers, importers, distributors, and retailers) as well as with key industry groups and the media. In that role, Danny succinctly provided data driven analysis and insights, focused on the U.S. retail environment and consumer/shopper – who they are, what they buy, and why - and what to expect looking ahead. In September 2020, Danny introduced Brager Beverage Alcohol Consulting, providing analysis services to beverage alcohol companies seeking to translate market data into authoritative, fact-based insights in support of their brand and corporate goals. Every year, he presents at large numbers of industry and individual company events, and is a frequent thought leader contributor to the media/press. His informed opinions are respected by beverage alcohol producers, importers, distributors, retailers, and financiers. Danny was born in Calgary, Alberta and moved to Toronto where he graduated from the Schulich School of Business at York University in Toronto with an Honors Bachelor Degree in Business Administration. He relocated to Mission Viejo, California in 1993 where he now resides.

  • Caitlin Braam, Founder, Yonder Cider - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Caitlin Braam

    Founder, Yonder Cider

  • Mario Carrasco, Co-Founder & Principal, ThinkNow - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Mario Carrasco

    Co-Founder & Principal, ThinkNow

  • John Byrne, Director of National Accounts, Firestone Walker - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    John Byrne

    Director of National Accounts, Firestone Walker

    John Byrne, Director of National Accounts, Firestone Walker - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    John Byrne

    Director of National Accounts, Firestone Walker

    John Byrne is the Director of National Accounts at Firestone Walker. This role includes managing a team of national account managers & category managers, collaborating with our internal sales and distributor teams, developing strategy with leadership at Firestone Walker, and enhancing partnerships with our key retailers. Prior to joining Firestone Walker in 2012, he spent 10+ years with Miller Brewing Company and MillerCoors with a background in both field sales and national account management. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin, he now resides in Chapel Hill, North Carolina with his wife Rachel and daughter Quinn, and enjoys spending time outdoors, trail running, and hiking (and, of course, enjoying a delicious pint of beer).John Byrne is the Director of National Accounts at Firestone Walker. This role includes managing a team of national account managers & category managers, collaborating with our internal sales and distributor teams, developing strategy with leadership at Firestone Walker, and enhancing partnerships with our key retailers. Prior to joining Firestone Walker in 2012, he spent 10+ years with Miller Brewing Company and MillerCoors with a background in both field sales and national account management. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin, he now resides in Chapel Hill, North Carolina with his wife Rachel and daughter Quinn, and enjoys spending time outdoors, trail running, and hiking (and, of course, enjoying a delicious pint of beer).

  • Steve Koenig, E-Commerce National Accounts Manager, Sierra Nevada - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Steve Koenig

    E-Commerce National Accounts Manager, Sierra Nevada

  • Jeff Hansson, Co-Founder and CEO, Scout Distribution - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Jeff Hansson

    Co-Founder and CEO, Scout Distribution

  • Colin Schilling, CEO, Schilling Cider - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Colin Schilling

    CEO, Schilling Cider

  • Kyle Ingram, Brand Director, Sierra Nevada - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Kyle Ingram

    Brand Director, Sierra Nevada

  • Brian “BK” Krueger, Vice President | Business Development & Portfolio Strategy, Bump Williams - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Brian “BK” Krueger

    Vice President | Business Development & Portfolio Strategy, Bump Williams

  • Jon Berg, VP Alcohol Industry Thought Leadership, NielsenIQ - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Jon Berg

    VP Alcohol Industry Thought Leadership, NielsenIQ

  • Derek Hahm, Chief Commercial Officer, The E-Premise Group - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Derek Hahm

    Chief Commercial Officer, The E-Premise Group

  • Nels Jewell-Larsen, Co-Owner, 2 Towns Ciderhouse - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Nels Jewell-Larsen

    Co-Owner, 2 Towns Ciderhouse

  • Olympia Anton, Director of National Accounts, Scout Distribution - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Olympia Anton

    Director of National Accounts, Scout Distribution

  • Eric Phillips, Chief Commercial Officer, Schilling Cider - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Eric Phillips

    Chief Commercial Officer, Schilling Cider

  • Jamie Carawan, VP Brand Menu and Culinary, Buffalo Wild Wings - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Jamie Carawan

    VP Brand Menu and Culinary, Buffalo Wild Wings

  • Nate Armburst, Technical Sales Representative - AAB Market, Scott Laboratories - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Nate Armburst

    Technical Sales Representative - AAB Market, Scott Laboratories

    Nate Armburst, Technical Sales Representative - AAB Market, Scott Laboratories - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Nate Armburst

    Technical Sales Representative - AAB Market, Scott Laboratories

    Nate Armbrust is a native Oregonian who grew up in the Willamette Valley. He attended Oregon State University where he received a B.S. in Food Science and Technology with a concentration in Fermentation Science. Prior to joining Scott Laboratories as a Technical Sales Representative in Beverage Integrity and Filtration, Nate spent over 20 years in the beverage industry working in product and process development. In addition to beer and wine, he also has experience in aseptic manufacturing of low acid food and beverage, and spent a decade in the coffee industry where he pioneered many of the cold brew coffee product categories that you see on shelf in cafes and grocery stores across the country. Nate and his family live in Portland, Oregon.

  • Jessica Just, GM - Fermentation & Enology, Scott Laboratories - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Jessica Just

    GM - Fermentation & Enology, Scott Laboratories

    Jessica Just, GM - Fermentation & Enology, Scott Laboratories - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Jessica Just

    GM - Fermentation & Enology, Scott Laboratories

    Jessica manages the Fermentation & Enology Department at Scott Laboratories. She’s an experienced fermentation scientist with two decades of experience and has been involved in all aspects of fermented beverage production including material handling, processing, fermentation, stabilization, and packaging. Prior to joining Scott Laboratories, she held positions at Brew Dr. Kombucha in Portland overseeing the Lab, QA/QC, food safety/regulatory compliance, and R&D programs and at Oregon State University in the Food Science Department teaching brewing, winemaking, and cidermaking. She is the first woman graduate of OSU’s Fermentation program and holds a B.S. and M.S. in Food Science from OSU. Recently, she co-authored the Hard Seltzer chapter in the forthcoming 4th Edition of The Practical Brewer.

  • Dan Gordon, President & CEO, Gordon Biersch Brewing Company - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Dan Gordon

    President & CEO, Gordon Biersch Brewing Company

    Dan Gordon, President & CEO, Gordon Biersch Brewing Company - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Dan Gordon

    President & CEO, Gordon Biersch Brewing Company

    Dan Gordon has earned a reputation as one of America's leading brewing engineers and is the current Chief Executive Officer for Gordon Biersch. Dan was the first American in more than 40 years to graduate from the prestigious five-year brewing engineering program at the world-renowned Technical University of Munich, Weihenstephan, West Germany. After the program, Dan returned to California and joined forces with restaurateur Dean Biersch to take advantage of a new state law allowing brewery restaurants. In 1988, the partners opened their first Gordon Biersch brewery restaurant in Palo Alto, Calif. And now Dan directs the operations at his state-of-the art canning and bottling brewery in San Jose, CA, the 15th largest brewing company in the country. In addition to running the brewery, Dan teaches a class on the production and business of wine, beer and spirits at UC Berkeley as well as quarterly guest speaking on Entrepreneurship at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Dan is a native of the Bay Area and is married to wife Melissa and has three children; Oliver, Haley and Cameron.

  • Brian Dillon, Enterprise Sales Executive, Fintech - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Brian Dillon

    Enterprise Sales Executive, Fintech

    Brian Dillon, Enterprise Sales Executive, Fintech - Brewbound Live Winter 2022

    Brian Dillon

    Enterprise Sales Executive, Fintech

    Brian has 13 years of industry experience on the supplier side, primarily spent in field sales, sales and distributor management, and most recently managing National Accounts for Odell Brewing Company. During his 12 years at Odell Brewing he learned the intricacies of distribution and the retail landscape while operating a self-distribution arm. Brian was also integral in opening and developing new markets and launching a hard kombucha and wine company. Brian has extensive knowledge of the 3-Tier system, managing distributors, e-commerce and calling on both on and off premise chain buyers. Brian joined Fintech in Spring 2022 on the data team as an Enterprise Data Sales Executive and works with Beer, Wine and Spirits suppliers to consult and provide insights and analytics to help them manage their chain business and supply chain. Brian holds a Cicerone Level 1 and WSET Wine Level 1. He resides in the mountains of Colorado with his wife, son and dog.

REGISTER

Check Out the Agenda: Beer Industry Analysis & Advice

Please note: All times US Pacific Time

  • 6:00 PM
    -
    8:00 PM

    Brewbound Live Kick Off Party, Presented by Juneshine

    Jumpstart your Brewbound Live conversation at the Kick Off Party located down the street at JuneShine (2914 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90405). Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available, as well as light snacks. All registered attendees of Brewbound Live Winter 2022 are invited to attend. A valid ID is required for admittance.

Please note: All times US Pacific Time

  • 7:30 AM
    -
    9:00 AM

    Breakfast & Registration

  • 8:00 AM
    -
    9:30 AM

    Brewbound Pitch Slam Semifinal Round

  • 9:00 AM
    -
    9:45 AM

    Sponsored Presentation: Competitive Market Data: The What, Why, and YTD Trends

    Location: Palisades BCD, 5th Floor (behind the main ballroom)
    Winning better shelf space in today’s fragmented alcohol distribution system without data can be a real challenge. As competition intensifies and consumer demands evolve at a faster pace, what do you do to keep retailers engaged with your brand? In this session, our Fintech Competitive Market Analysis (CMA) expert, Brian Dillon, will discuss why competitive market data is the most valuable asset for your business, how to exploit it, and how it helps you gain competitive advantage. As part of the discussion, we will share our YTD trends report of the alcohol market arena and explain how you can exploit those trends to boost your revenue and achieve your desired growth.
    • Brian Dillon
      , Enterprise Sales Executive, Fintech
      Brian Dillon, Enterprise Sales Executive, Fintech -

      Brian Dillon

      Enterprise Sales Executive, Fintech

      Brian has 13 years of industry experience on the supplier side, primarily spent in field sales, sales and distributor management, and most recently managing National Accounts for Odell Brewing Company. During his 12 years at Odell Brewing he learned the intricacies of distribution and the retail landscape while operating a self-distribution arm. Brian was also integral in opening and developing new markets and launching a hard kombucha and wine company. Brian has extensive knowledge of the 3-Tier system, managing distributors, e-commerce and calling on both on and off premise chain buyers. Brian joined Fintech in Spring 2022 on the data team as an Enterprise Data Sales Executive and works with Beer, Wine and Spirits suppliers to consult and provide insights and analytics to help them manage their chain business and supply chain. Brian holds a Cicerone Level 1 and WSET Wine Level 1. He resides in the mountains of Colorado with his wife, son and dog.

    • Brian Dillon, Enterprise Sales Executive, Fintech

    Watch Video

  • 9:30 AM
    -
    10:00 AM

    Networking Break

  • 10:00 AM
    -
    10:35 AM

    Welcome + Keynote: Transform Your Business With 1 Simple Question

    Carrie Yunker will officially open the event with a discussion on leading the organization through the retirement of its legendary founder, Larry Bell, and the sale of the company to New Belgium Brewing’s parent company, Lion Little World Beverages. Her talk will include wisdom gleaned from the experience of leading a 37-year-old craft beer institution through a period of immense change, preserving Bell’s unique identity, and unifying its culture with New Belgium, which shares its people-centric values.
    • Carrie Yunker
      , Executive Vice President, Bell's Brewery
    • Carrie Yunker, Executive Vice President, Bell's Brewery

    Watch Video

  • 10:35 AM
    -
    11:00 AM

    Platform Building: What's Next for Maui & Modern Times

    Marrero and Briggs will share where the newly formed Craft ‘Ohana platform goes from here and if other breweries could be welcomed into the fold. They will also offer strategies for companies who may be looking at potential acquisitions.
    • Jennifer Briggs
      , Former CEO, Modern Times, Chief Experience Officer, Craft 'Ohana,
    • Garrett Marrero
      , CEO & Co-Founder, Maui Brewing
    • Jennifer Briggs, Former CEO, Modern Times, Chief Experience Officer, Craft 'Ohana,
    • Garrett Marrero, CEO & Co-Founder, Maui Brewing

    Watch Video

  • 11:00 AM
    -
    11:35 AM

    State of Craft: It's the Industry, Stupid

    Where does craft beer stand near the end of 2022? Brewers Association chief economist Bart Watson will share the most up-to-date information on craft beer’s performance this year and share his expectations for the segment in 2023.
    • Bart Watson
      , Chief Economist, Brewers Association
    • Bart Watson, Chief Economist, Brewers Association

    Watch Video

  • 11:35 AM
    -
    12:00 PM

    Winning Together: What Wholesalers Wish Brewers Knew

    Jessica Muskey and Jeff Hansson will share how to work better with your wholesaler partners, gain more share of mind and understand the products wholesalers are looking to carry. Muskey will dive into Reyes’ ability to test-and-learn with new products in various markets as a multistate operator. Hansson will share how Scout, as a small and independent Southern California wholesaler, approaches the market, as well as opens new territories, such as Arizona and Idaho.
    • Jessica Muskey
      , VP of Craft and Innovation, Reyes Beer Division
    • Jeff Hansson
      , Co-Founder and CEO, Scout Distribution
    • Jessica Muskey, VP of Craft and Innovation, Reyes Beer Division
    • Jeff Hansson, Co-Founder and CEO, Scout Distribution

    Watch Video

  • 12:00 PM
    -
    12:10 PM

    Pitch Slam Finalist Announcement, Awards & Rising Stars Video Announcement

    Watch Video

  • 12:00 PM
    -
    1:20 PM

    Lunch, Sampling & Livestream

  • 1:20 PM
    -
    2:00 PM

    Fact or Fiction: Reality Checking the Beer Business

    • Danelle Kosmal
      , Vice President of Research, Beer Institute
    • Danny Brager
      , 3 Tier Beverages, In Partnership with NielsenIQ
      Danny Brager, 3 Tier Beverages, In Partnership with NielsenIQ -

      Danny Brager

      3 Tier Beverages, In Partnership with NielsenIQ

      Danny Brager has a wealth of experience in the Beverage Alcohol industry, seeing many trends come and stay, but others come and then die. He is the former Senior Vice President of Nielsen’s Beverage Alcohol Practice Area in the United States, where for close to 20 years he led teams that supported relationships with Nielsen’s many Beer, Wine, and Spirits clients (suppliers, importers, distributors, and retailers) as well as with key industry groups and the media. In that role, Danny succinctly provided data driven analysis and insights, focused on the U.S. retail environment and consumer/shopper – who they are, what they buy, and why - and what to expect looking ahead. In September 2020, Danny introduced Brager Beverage Alcohol Consulting, providing analysis services to beverage alcohol companies seeking to translate market data into authoritative, fact-based insights in support of their brand and corporate goals. Every year, he presents at large numbers of industry and individual company events, and is a frequent thought leader contributor to the media/press. His informed opinions are respected by beverage alcohol producers, importers, distributors, retailers, and financiers. Danny was born in Calgary, Alberta and moved to Toronto where he graduated from the Schulich School of Business at York University in Toronto with an Honors Bachelor Degree in Business Administration. He relocated to Mission Viejo, California in 1993 where he now resides.

    • Jon Berg
      , VP Alcohol Industry Thought Leadership, NielsenIQ
    • Danelle Kosmal, Vice President of Research, Beer Institute
    • Danny Brager, 3 Tier Beverages, In Partnership with NielsenIQ
    • Jon Berg, VP Alcohol Industry Thought Leadership, NielsenIQ

    Watch Video

  • 2:00 PM
    -
    2:30 PM

    Apple Talk: How Regional Cideries Are Bucking National Trends

    • Caitlin Braam
      , Founder, Yonder Cider
    • Nels Jewell-Larsen
      , Co-Owner, 2 Towns Ciderhouse
    • Eric Phillips
      , Chief Commercial Officer, Schilling Cider
    • Soham Bhatt
      , Co-Founder, Artifact Cider Project
      Soham Bhatt, Co-Founder, Artifact Cider Project -

      Soham Bhatt

      Co-Founder, Artifact Cider Project

      Soham Bhatt launched Artifact Cider Project in 2014 with the goal to make unique, terroir-driven ciders accessible to everyone. Artifact Cider recently launched a spin-off of fan-favorite brand Feels Like Home Craft Cider expanding their juicy and accessible offerings. Having a former career in biotechnology engineering, Soham merges his passions for food, art, and culture with his technical background to create sophisticated ciders for the everyday palate. In 2020, Soham was elected to the Board of Directors of the American Cider Association. He lives in Cambridge, MA with his wife, two children, and fiesty pup Jules.

    • Caitlin Braam, Founder, Yonder Cider
    • Nels Jewell-Larsen, Co-Owner, 2 Towns Ciderhouse
    • Eric Phillips, Chief Commercial Officer, Schilling Cider
    • Soham Bhatt, Co-Founder, Artifact Cider Project

    Watch Video

  • 2:30 PM
    -
    3:00 PM

    Beers & Networking

  • 3:00 PM
    -
    3:30 PM

    Innovating in an Increasingly Crowded 4th Category

    Finding white space within the beverage-alcohol industry’s fast-growing fourth category of offerings isn’t easy. Leaders from Molson Coors and Rhinegeist’s RGBevs will share their strategies for finding opportunities, building new brand families and crafting partnerships with major brands.
    • Jamie Wideman
      , VP of Innovation, North America, Molson Coors
      Jamie Wideman, VP of Innovation, North America, Molson Coors -

      Jamie Wideman

      VP of Innovation, North America, Molson Coors

      Jamie joined Molson Coors in 2020 to lead the North American Innovation team. An accomplished marketing executive with nearly 20 years’ experience in CPG, including the wine and spirits industry, Jamie has a knack for developing consumer-centric strategies and business solutions that produce growth. In her year at Molson Coors, Jamie has unleashed Topo Chico Hard Seltzer, Simply Spiked Lemonade and more into the market, and is extending Molson Coors’ innovation pipeline into new segments that deliver on the company’s transformation from a legacy brewer to a beverage company. Jamie earned a B.A. in Liberal Arts & Sciences from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and a Masters of Business Administration from DePaul University, Chicago Illinois.

    • Adam Bankovich
      , Chief Commercial Officer, Rhinegeist/RGBevs
    • Brian “BK” Krueger
      , Vice President | Business Development & Portfolio Strategy, Bump Williams
    • Jamie Wideman, VP of Innovation, North America, Molson Coors
    • Adam Bankovich, Chief Commercial Officer, Rhinegeist/RGBevs
    • Brian “BK” Krueger, Vice President | Business Development & Portfolio Strategy, Bump Williams

    Watch Video

  • 3:30 PM
    -
    4:00 PM

    Culture > Strategy: Get Serious About Creating a Great Workplace

    • Colin Schilling
      , CEO, Schilling Cider
    • Colin Schilling, CEO, Schilling Cider

    Watch Video

  • 4:00 PM
    -
    6:00 PM

    Beers & Networking

  • 6:00 PM
    -
    8:00 PM

    Official Party Presented by Firestone Walker, YETI & The Beer Institute

    Head over to Firestone Walker - The Propagator (3205 Washington Blvd, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292) for additional networking and free YETI mugs! Enjoy beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages and light appetizers. All registered attendees of Brewbound Live Winter 2022 are invited to attend. An event badge and valid ID is required for admittance.

Please note: All times US Pacific Time

  • 8:00 AM
    -
    9:30 AM

    Breakfast & Registration

  • 8:00 AM
    -
    8:45 AM

    Sponsored Panel: Considerations for Producing Non-Traditional Beverages at a Traditional Brewery

    Location: Palisades BCD, 5th Floor (behind the main ballroom)
    Join Scott Laboratories in conversation with Dan Gordon of Gordon Biersch as they discuss some of the major differences between brewing beer and making non-traditional beverages (hard seltzer, RTD cocktails, kombucha, etc.) in a traditional brewery. The talk will focus heavily on stabilization and shelf-life considerations, but other topics will be discussed including differences in regulatory, fermentation kinetics, equipment capabilities, material handling, QA/QC procedures, and formulation and scale-up challenges.
    • Dan Gordon
      , President & CEO, Gordon Biersch Brewing Company
      Dan Gordon, President & CEO, Gordon Biersch Brewing Company -

      Dan Gordon

      President & CEO, Gordon Biersch Brewing Company

      Dan Gordon has earned a reputation as one of America's leading brewing engineers and is the current Chief Executive Officer for Gordon Biersch. Dan was the first American in more than 40 years to graduate from the prestigious five-year brewing engineering program at the world-renowned Technical University of Munich, Weihenstephan, West Germany. After the program, Dan returned to California and joined forces with restaurateur Dean Biersch to take advantage of a new state law allowing brewery restaurants. In 1988, the partners opened their first Gordon Biersch brewery restaurant in Palo Alto, Calif. And now Dan directs the operations at his state-of-the art canning and bottling brewery in San Jose, CA, the 15th largest brewing company in the country. In addition to running the brewery, Dan teaches a class on the production and business of wine, beer and spirits at UC Berkeley as well as quarterly guest speaking on Entrepreneurship at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Dan is a native of the Bay Area and is married to wife Melissa and has three children; Oliver, Haley and Cameron.

    • Jessica Just
      , GM - Fermentation & Enology, Scott Laboratories
      Jessica Just, GM - Fermentation & Enology, Scott Laboratories -

      Jessica Just

      GM - Fermentation & Enology, Scott Laboratories

      Jessica manages the Fermentation & Enology Department at Scott Laboratories. She’s an experienced fermentation scientist with two decades of experience and has been involved in all aspects of fermented beverage production including material handling, processing, fermentation, stabilization, and packaging. Prior to joining Scott Laboratories, she held positions at Brew Dr. Kombucha in Portland overseeing the Lab, QA/QC, food safety/regulatory compliance, and R&D programs and at Oregon State University in the Food Science Department teaching brewing, winemaking, and cidermaking. She is the first woman graduate of OSU’s Fermentation program and holds a B.S. and M.S. in Food Science from OSU. Recently, she co-authored the Hard Seltzer chapter in the forthcoming 4th Edition of The Practical Brewer.

    • Nate Armburst
      , Technical Sales Representative - AAB Market, Scott Laboratories
      Nate Armburst, Technical Sales Representative - AAB Market, Scott Laboratories -

      Nate Armburst

      Technical Sales Representative - AAB Market, Scott Laboratories

      Nate Armbrust is a native Oregonian who grew up in the Willamette Valley. He attended Oregon State University where he received a B.S. in Food Science and Technology with a concentration in Fermentation Science. Prior to joining Scott Laboratories as a Technical Sales Representative in Beverage Integrity and Filtration, Nate spent over 20 years in the beverage industry working in product and process development. In addition to beer and wine, he also has experience in aseptic manufacturing of low acid food and beverage, and spent a decade in the coffee industry where he pioneered many of the cold brew coffee product categories that you see on shelf in cafes and grocery stores across the country. Nate and his family live in Portland, Oregon.

    • Dan Gordon, President & CEO, Gordon Biersch Brewing Company
    • Jessica Just, GM - Fermentation & Enology, Scott Laboratories
    • Nate Armburst, Technical Sales Representative - AAB Market, Scott Laboratories

    Watch Video

  • 9:00 AM
    -
    9:30 AM

    Growing the Family: How Top Brewers Are Creating Brand Families

    How do marketing directors from Sierra Nevada, Firestone Walker and Constellation Brands guide and build on popular brand families such as Little Things, 805 and Modelo? Leaders from three of those brands will share their strategies for steering those franchises and adding onto those brand families.
    • Dustin Hinz
      , CMO, Firestone Walker
    • Kyle Ingram
      , Brand Director, Sierra Nevada
    • Greg Gallagher
      , VP Brand Marketing, Modelo, Constellation Brands
    • Dustin Hinz, CMO, Firestone Walker
    • Kyle Ingram, Brand Director, Sierra Nevada
    • Greg Gallagher, VP Brand Marketing, Modelo, Constellation Brands

    Watch Video

  • 9:30 AM
    -
    10:00 AM

    Ask a Dealmaker: Where M&A Goes Next

    Several big deals have gone down in 2022, from the sale of Stone Brewing to Sapporo, to Tilray’s recent acquisition of Montauk Brewing. Those transactions have one thing in common: investment bank Arlington Capital Advisors. Arlington director Ryan Lake will speak one-on-one about the current dealmaking landscape for craft breweries, carbonated soft drink makers’ interest in bev-alc, the level of interest in fourth category products, growing middle tier consolidation and much more.
    • Ryan Lake
      , Director, Arlington Capital Advisors
    • Ryan Lake, Director, Arlington Capital Advisors

    Watch Video

  • 10:00 AM
    -
    10:30 AM

    Networking Break

  • 10:30 AM
    -
    11:00 AM

    Beer Buyers Tell All: Sell More Beer in 2023

    Did you know that no one pours more draft beer than Buffalo Wild Wings? Or that Whole Foods is dedicated to featuring craft beer in its sets? Decision makers from both establishments will share how brewers can sell more beer in 2023
    • Mary Guiver
      , Global Principle Category Merchant Beer & Spirits, Whole Foods
      Mary Guiver, Global Principle Category Merchant Beer & Spirits, Whole Foods -

      Mary Guiver

      Global Principle Category Merchant Beer & Spirits, Whole Foods

      With 16+ plus years in the grocery retail landscape, including over a decade of emphasis on category management in an industry-leading chain retailer for adult beverage, Mary Guiver’s dynamic background at Whole Foods Market Inc provides a unique blend of retail insights. As the Principle Global Category Merchant for Beer & Spirits she continues to grow the WFM program through commitment to artisanal, local and innovative products, alongside a steadfast focus on quality standards and consumer demands. With a keen eye for industry trends and a collaborative approach to chain retail, Mary is able to elaborate on the inner strategies and continued evolution of one of the top chain retailers in the market.

    • Jamie Carawan
      , VP Brand Menu and Culinary, Buffalo Wild Wings
    • Mary Guiver, Global Principle Category Merchant Beer & Spirits, Whole Foods
    • Jamie Carawan, VP Brand Menu and Culinary, Buffalo Wild Wings

    Watch Video

  • 11:00 AM
    -
    12:00 PM

    Brewbound Pitch Slam Final Round

    Watch Video

  • 12:00 PM
    -
    1:30 PM

    Lunch & Beers

  • 1:30 PM
    -
    2:00 PM

    Speaking Authentically to Gen Z

    • Mario Carrasco
      , Co-Founder & Principal, ThinkNow
    • Mario Carrasco, Co-Founder & Principal, ThinkNow

    Watch Video

  • 2:00 PM
    -
    2:30 PM

    Slinging Suds on the Internet: Navigating the E-Premise

    Following the boom of pandemic shutdown era e-commerce sales, how do you build an e-commerce strategy that works? And how do you create your own opportunities? Leaders in the e-premise space will share strategies.
    • Sara Goucher
      , Director of eCommerce, North America, Molson Coors
      Sara Goucher, Director of eCommerce, North America, Molson Coors -

      Sara Goucher

      Director of eCommerce, North America, Molson Coors

      Sara Welch Goucher leads the US eCommerce business at Molson Coors Beverage Company. In her tenure at MCBC, the eCommerce channel has grown triple digits and become one of the top growth drivers for the company. She joined MCBC in 2018 after 10 years with Kimberly-Clark Corporation, where she worked in sales, brand marketing, global marketing, and eCommerce. When not slinging suds on the internet, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, salsa dancing, traveling, and watching documentaries. Sara lives in the Chicagoland area with her husband and 2 small children. Sara graduated with a degree in Business Administration from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

    • Steve Koenig
      , E-Commerce National Accounts Manager, Sierra Nevada
    • Beny Ashburn
      , CEO and co-founder, Crowns & Hops Brewing Co.
    • Derek Hahm
      , Chief Commercial Officer, The E-Premise Group
    • Sara Goucher, Director of eCommerce, North America, Molson Coors
    • Steve Koenig, E-Commerce National Accounts Manager, Sierra Nevada
    • Beny Ashburn, CEO and co-founder, Crowns & Hops Brewing Co.
    • Derek Hahm, Chief Commercial Officer, The E-Premise Group

    Watch Video

  • 2:30 PM
    -
    3:00 PM

    The Chain Game: Crafting a National Accounts Strategy

    • Elizabeth Isenbart
      , Director of National Accounts, JuneShine
    • John Byrne
      , Director of National Accounts, Firestone Walker
      John Byrne, Director of National Accounts, Firestone Walker -

      John Byrne

      Director of National Accounts, Firestone Walker

      John Byrne is the Director of National Accounts at Firestone Walker. This role includes managing a team of national account managers & category managers, collaborating with our internal sales and distributor teams, developing strategy with leadership at Firestone Walker, and enhancing partnerships with our key retailers. Prior to joining Firestone Walker in 2012, he spent 10+ years with Miller Brewing Company and MillerCoors with a background in both field sales and national account management. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin, he now resides in Chapel Hill, North Carolina with his wife Rachel and daughter Quinn, and enjoys spending time outdoors, trail running, and hiking (and, of course, enjoying a delicious pint of beer).John Byrne is the Director of National Accounts at Firestone Walker. This role includes managing a team of national account managers & category managers, collaborating with our internal sales and distributor teams, developing strategy with leadership at Firestone Walker, and enhancing partnerships with our key retailers. Prior to joining Firestone Walker in 2012, he spent 10+ years with Miller Brewing Company and MillerCoors with a background in both field sales and national account management. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin, he now resides in Chapel Hill, North Carolina with his wife Rachel and daughter Quinn, and enjoys spending time outdoors, trail running, and hiking (and, of course, enjoying a delicious pint of beer).

    • Olympia Anton
      , Director of National Accounts, Scout Distribution
    • Elizabeth Isenbart, Director of National Accounts, JuneShine
    • John Byrne, Director of National Accounts, Firestone Walker
    • Olympia Anton, Director of National Accounts, Scout Distribution

    Watch Video

  • 3:00 PM
    -
    3:30 PM

    Know Yourself: The Importance of Brand Identity

    With more than 9,000 craft breweries in the U.S., consumers are inundated with choice on retail shelves or when bellying up to the bar. To stand out, solidifying a brand identity is becoming increasingly important to differentiate from the pack.This panel will bring together three up-and-coming breweries with crystallized identities to share advice in building brands and forging connections with consumers.
    • LeAnn Darland
      , Co-Founder, Talea Beer Co.
      LeAnn Darland, Co-Founder, Talea Beer Co. -

      LeAnn Darland

      Co-Founder, Talea Beer Co.

      LeAnn Darland’s love for beer and dream of owning a brewery was first ignited while stationed in San Diego, serving in the US Navy as a Signals Intelligence Officer. Living in this popular craft beer destination, LeAnn was inspired by the casual, communal vibe of local taprooms. After five years of naval service, LeAnn used her Masters in Finance and MBA to pursue a career in corporate finance at Google. She began homebrewing and cold-emailing breweries to see if she could work for free and learn about the business in exchange. Unfortunately, no breweries responded, but during this time, LeAnn was serendipitously introduced to the founder of Hopsy, who was in the beginning stages of fundraising for the craft beer delivery company. LeAnn joined the Hopsy team full time as the Head of Finance and later interviewed and convinced Tara Hankinson, her future TALEA co-founder, to join. Once colleagues, the two found that they had a mutual dream of opening a brewery of their own and serving easy-to-love beers. Within three months of meeting, TALEA Beer Co. was born.

    • Rich Bloomfield
      , Co-Founder, Funkytown Brewery
    • Haidar Hachem
      , Co-Owner and Head Brewer, Shojo Beer Co.
      Haidar Hachem, Co-Owner and Head Brewer, Shojo Beer Co. -

      Haidar Hachem

      Co-Owner and Head Brewer, Shojo Beer Co.

      Shojo Beer Co. is a Nicaraguan & Lebanese inspired brewery with a Japanese aesthetic. Our goal is to show the world our story through our beers and art incorporating flavors found in our cultures, heritage and most importantly memories from our countries and growing up in an immigrant household. We also involve our community in our efforts by hosting fundraisers for every new beer release supporting various local and global charities and collecting supplies for those in need.

    • LeAnn Darland, Co-Founder, Talea Beer Co.
    • Rich Bloomfield, Co-Founder, Funkytown Brewery
    • Haidar Hachem, Co-Owner and Head Brewer, Shojo Beer Co.

    Watch Video

  • 3:30 PM
    -
    3:40 PM

    Brewbound Pitch Slam Winner Announcement

    Watch Video

  • 3:30 PM
    -
    4:30 PM

    Wrap Party, Presented By Live Oak Bank

    Wrap up your conversations on-site at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel Venice Salon, located on the 4th floor, and enjoy a few final beers. All registered attendees of Brewbound Live Winter 2022 are invited to attend. An event badge and valid ID is required for admittance.

REGISTER

The Brewbound Live Experience



Tap Into Actionable & Timely Insights

Industry experts provide actionable insights on topics affecting the beer and beverage-alcohol industry today. Our speakers dive into industry data and examine case studies to help you overcome obstacles and cultivate growth.

Learn more



Connect with Industry Leaders

At Brewbound Live, well-connected industry veterans are in the room and ready to talk. Ask them your questions, collaborate on new ideas, and head into 2023 with a clear path forward (and a new partner or two).

Learn more



Sample the Latest Innovations

Take a first-hand look at up-and-coming beer and beyond trends before many of your competitors have a chance. Looking to have your product sampled for feedback? Just register and apply.

Learn more



Pitch Your Startup to the Industry

The Brewbound Live Pitch Slam allows emerging beer and beyond brands to showcase their products to our expert panel and in-person audience to gain feedback and industry exposure.

Learn more

Beer & Beyond Companies Are Registered for Brewbound Live

View the Full List

Connect, In Real Life at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel

The two-day event takes place at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, which is an open air hotel with a variety of outdoor spaces. We will be taking advantage of the SoCal weather, views of the Santa Monica Pier and magnificent sunsets. Lunch and networking breaks will take place outside by the pool, weather permitting.

Register

Invest in the Future of Your Beer Business

Attending Brewbound Live is the first step in propelling your business into growth mode. Establish new partnerships, collaborate with beer industry experts, and walk away with the ability to make more strategic decisions for your company.

Register