As the saying goes, “No matter where life takes you, always remember where you came from.” Well, this episode of the podcast is definitely all about where it all began for me, not just for the podcast but where I got my start in the craft beer industry.
Over six years ago I began working for a small brewpub by the name of Freewheel Brewing Company and from day one I definitely did not know just how much of an effect this little brewery in a strip mall in my hometown would have on my life. This humble business, which was started by four close friends, would not only help me get my start in the craft beer industry but also be the catalyst to my career in radio and this podcast in general. Hell, thanks to Freewheel, I met my wife!
When I got the opportunity to re-launch the podcast, I definitely knew I had to feature Freewheel Brewing Company again. Thankfully they are still in business and did not have to shutter but just like a lot of the smaller breweries here in the Bay Area, last year and most of this past year was a big struggle for them. Having to shift their focus from brewing cask ales, which is what they are known for, to brewing more popular known styles of beers has been super beneficial, but now that business is picking up they’re slowly getting back to where they began.
Of course, if you want to hear the entire backstory of Freewheel Brewing and learn about the art of the cask ale, click here for the first episode of the podcast. But in the meantime, sit back and enjoy this revisit with the place where it all began for me.
Cheers \m/
Joe Hawk
