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🍺 Episode Overview Episode 299 is a quick solo run with Dave—no guests this week, but plenty of beer news, industry insight, and a deep dive into one of the most interesting trends in craft beer right now: non-alcoholic versions of flagship beers. From brewery closures to new collaborations and a standout NA release from Revolution Brewing, this episode covers the current state of the beer world,  plus a few “put it in the cart” recommendations. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

🎙️ Beer In Front Podcast – Episode Show Notes Barrel-Aged Season… in April?  Spring in Chicago… and somehow we’re talking barrel-aged monsters like it’s late November. This episode dives into a surprise wave of fresh barrel-aged releases from three legendary Chicago breweries, plus a deep, behind-the-scenes conversation with one of the best in the game. Dave sits down with Marty Scott (Barrel Program Manager at Revolution Brewing) for an in-depth look at blending, wood, and the philosophy behind one of the country’s most respected barrel programs — including a sneak peek tank pour of a brand-new Deep Wood release. Also: industry news, new (and questionable?) beer releases, and a bittersweet beer rumor that hits close to home. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

Week of April 6, 2026 A packed episode this week with a heavy focus on what really matters: the beer in front of you. 🍺 Expect a streamlined format loaded with reviews, plus some news, events, and a few things you might want to… put in the cart. 🍻 What’s On Deck A stacked lineup of beer reviews featuring:Dragon’s Milk (New Holland)Midwest Coast BrewingNew BelgiumSound GrowlerSierra NevadaBeer news from around the worldChicago-area event spotlightMidwest Beer Show preview Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

🍺 Beer In Front – Episode 296 Guest: Ska Brewing co-founder Dave Thibodeau 🎙️ Episode Summary Dave Zalatoris is joined by craft beer OG Dave Thibodeau of Ska Brewing for a conversation that hits the sweet spot between beer, music, and staying true to your roots. From the early “punk rock” days of microbrewing to today’s ultra-competitive craft landscape, this episode dives into how Ska Brewing has stayed relevant for over 30 years. Plus: beer news, industry trends, and a review of Ska’s brand new West Coast IPA. 🍻 In This Episode 🎤 Interview: Dave Thibodeau (Ska Brewing) The origins of Ska Brewing and its deep roots in punk, ska, and DIY cultureWhat early craft beer was really like (hint: not always good… and nobody noticed)How today’s drinker has changed—and why you can’t get away with mediocre beer anymoreThe evolution of IPAs—from no IPA at all to flagship statusBrewing innovation: cryo hops, biotransformation, and modern West Coast IPA techniquesThe wild story of opening (and closing) a location in 71 minutes due to COVIDWhy “beyond beer” (seltzers, RTDs) still feels off-brand for many legacy brewersCraft beer shakeout: who survives and whySka’s experimental “Mod Project” beers—including the unforgettable Pink Vapor StewThe importance of community and Durango’s role in Ska’s identity🍺 Beer Review Ska Brewing – New West Coast IPA Aroma: Mango, guava, bright tropical notesAppearance: Clear, classic West Coast look with solid foamFlavor: Balanced hop profile with noticeable bitterness (in a good way)Takeaway: A modern West Coast IPA that respects tradition while using new-school techniquesVerdict: 👉 “Put it in the cart.” Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

Yeah… we’re talking about malt. This week I’m joined by Ron Silberstein from Admiral Maltings, and if you think malt is just the thing that shows up on an invoice… this one might change your mind. We get into: 🌾 Why malt is the backbone of beer 🍺 Craft malting & California-grown barley 🔥 Floor malting vs the big guys 🍻 Why lagers are having a moment Plus—I crack open Sunglider from Firestone Walker 👉 Bready, biscuity, super clean 👉 Easy crusher when the weather finally warms up Bottom line: If you see Sun Glider… put it in the cart. 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts #BeerInFront #CraftBeer #DrinkLocal #LagerLove #BeerPodcast #FirestoneWalker #AdmiralMaltings #ChicagoBeer Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

🎙️ Beer In Front – Episode 294 Craft Beer Concierge + Chicago Merger News Dave is back with a packed episode featuring a deep dive into the evolving beer scene, a great conversation with the “Craft Beer Concierge,” and a couple of beers worth putting straight in the cart.  What’s On Tap This EpisodeA major Chicago beer merger that could reshape the local sceneA conversation with Allo Gilinsky, aka the Craft Beer ConciergeBeer reviews featuring a Perennial saison and a classic Irish red from BegyleIndustry news, trends, and what’s next in craft beerAllo Gilinsky Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

🍺 New Episode – Beer in Front 🎙️ Quick solo show this week (yes, I sound a little congested 😅), but we’ve got a LOT to cover. 🚨 Chicagoland Closures We’re up to six brewery closures in two months. It’s a tough stretch for Illinois craft beer. If you’ve got a favorite spot — now’s the time to support them.  🌎 Beer NewsBrewDog sold to Tilray for $40M (once valued near $2B 😳)Pickle beer collab: Grillo’s x PBRFirestone Walker dropping a dragon fruit sourRevolution expanding the Cold Time lineup🐟 Deep Dive: Ballast Point From a homebrew shop… To a $1 BILLION sale… To being sold for a fraction of that… To fighting its way back to independent roots. One of the craziest stories in craft beer history. And yes — we revisited Sculpin IPA 🍊 Still bitter. Still balanced. Still holds up. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

🍺 Guest Interview: Jerry Siote – Lone Tree Brewing Company This week, Dave heads back to Colorado to talk with Lone Tree Brewing Company’s Jerry Siote. Founded: 2011 Locations: Lone Tree & Parker, Colorado Recently Won: Gold Medal – Colorado Brewers Cup (Mexican Lager) 🔥 Highlights from the ConversationLone Tree’s journey from aviation & finance to brewingCelebrating 15 years and brewing their 3,000th batchWhy their Mexican Lager now accounts for nearly half of productionWinning multiple medals at the Great American Beer FestivalRefreshing their IPA lineup (and surviving customer feedback)The challenge of balancing beer vs. non-beer offeringsThe state of hazy IPA fatigue & the return of clean, drinkable lagersTravel as inspiration (Belgium 2026, perhaps?)Jerry’s take: “Beer should be the bedrock. If it’s not beer, why are we doing it?” Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

This week we’re doing something a little different… but don’t worry, there’s still beer involved. 🎙 Guest: Morgan Smith – CEO of Kalm With Kava. Dave sits down with Morgan Smith from Kalm With Kava to talk about kava — the traditional South Pacific root drink known for its calming, social effects. Kava doesn’t give you a “buzz” like alcohol or THC. Instead, it delivers a mellow, relaxed feeling that helps take the edge off without fogging your head. What We Covered:What kava is and how it’s been used for 3,000+ years in places like Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, and HawaiiHow kava differs from alcohol and cannabisDrug testing concerns (spoiler: generally safe, with a rare caveat)The liver safety myth and where it came fromHow kava is traditionally prepared (yes, there’s a massage involved)Modern options: instant kava, gummies, tincturesKava bars popping up across the U.S.The cultural significance of kava in Polynesian communitiesBuilding a brand responsibly within a deeply rooted traditionDave also shares his own experience trying kava:Instant mix = earthy but manageableNoticeable calming effectSlept like a championIf you’re cutting back on alcohol or just looking for something different, this is worth checking out. 👉 Learn more: KalmWithKava.com (with a K!) 👉 Also available on Amazon — make sure you search the correct brand. Put it in the cart! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

Sometimes the beer in front of you really is the best one yet—and this week’s episode proves it. Dave heads back to Colorado to catch up with Justin Grant, co-owner of Goat Patch Brewing Company in Colorado Springs. Since opening in 2017, Goat Patch has built a reputation for balance: balanced beers, balanced business decisions, and deep roots in the community. From award-winning Scottish ales to hazy IPAs, lagers, and Italian pilsners, Goat Patch has something for just about every palate. Justin shares the origin story of Goat Patch, how the brewery got its name, and why “Home of Balanced Brews” isn’t just a slogan—it’s a philosophy. 🍺 In This Episode: The story behind the Goat Patch name and logoWhy balance and variety have been core to their brewing philosophy from day oneNavigating the rise of hazy IPAs while still brewing classic stylesWhat it means to be a veteran-owned brewery in Colorado SpringsThe Bleating Heart Initiative and Goat Patch’s commitment to giving backAcquiring and rebranding the former Pikes Peak Brewing locationLessons learned from COVID, growth, and adding food programsAdvice for anyone thinking about opening a brewery todayJustin’s go-to shift beers (including that Italian pils 👀)📰 Beer & Beverage News:Ball Corporation selling out aluminum can inventory through 2027RadCraft hosting a media relations seminar for breweriesDovetail Brewery’s “Thank You for Smoking” rauchbier brunch in ChicagoDry January alcohol sales actually increased year-over-yearNorth Carolina & Colorado Pint Day glass designs revealedKeystone Light Apple is… a thing now 🍎🦅🍺 Beer In Front of Me: Going Places IPA from Hopewell Brewing (Chicago) A bright, balanced IPA that lands somewhere between West Coast and hazy—easy drinking, flavorful, and worth picking up if you see it. 🎧 Listen now and hear why Goat Patch Brewing continues to thrive by staying balanced—on tap and beyond. If you’d like to support the show, head over to Patreon.com/BeerInFront Thanks for listening, and remember: sometimes the beer in front of you is the best one yet. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

🍺 Beer In Front — Episode 289 Wet February Begins, Brewery Closures, Zima Dreams & Barrel-Aged Beers Episode 289 kicks off with Dry January officially in the rearview mirror and Wet February underway. Host Dave Zalatoris reflects on dropping 10 pounds during January, the success of his non-drinking month, and a massive surge in YouTube growth—even without beer-heavy content. But it’s not all good news. Dave talks about troubling brewery closures in the Chicago area, urges listeners to support local breweries while they can, and dives headfirst into beer and beverage news from across the country. And yes… the quest to Get Dave a Zima is officially on. 🍻 This Episode Covers:Dry January results, weight loss, and keeping things balanced in Wet FebruaryRecord-breaking YouTube growth and why non-beer content helpedChicago brewery closures, including Alarmist and Short Fuse BrewingWhy supporting local breweries matters more than everThe nostalgia, history, and comeback attempts of Zima—and why Dave needs one nowBeer and beverage news from around the country📰 Beer & Beverage News Highlights:Short Fuse Brewing (IL) closing after 10 years due to lease and cost pressuresGreat Lakes Brewing teasing an Apple Pie variant of Eliot NessBell’s Brewery announcing Citrus Hopslam (10% ABV)Craft Maltsters Guild hosting an advanced malt production course at Montana StateTHC beverages arriving at Chicago’s United CenterBeatBox Beverages layoffs following Anheuser-Busch acquisitionNew Voodoo Ranger x Invincible Blood Orange IPAAlesmith, Societe Brewing & Modern Monk Coffee collaborationGreat American Beer Festival moving outdoors in DenverYes… a beer brewed with bear scat (and Dave has thoughts)🍺 Beer Reviews:Revolution Brewing – Deth Urana (Deep Wood Series) Barrel-aged imperial stout with cinnamon, coconut, and maple notes 👉 Verdict: Put it in the cart immediatelyFirestone Walker – Double Barrel Ale (DBA) Oak-fermented classic celebrating Firestone Walker’s 30th anniversary 👉 Verdict: Crushable, balanced, and outstanding Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

🍻 Beer In Front – Episode 288 Guest: Kevin Waltermire, Co-Founder of Comma Thanks to a listener assist, Episode 288 is stacked—from THC-infused non-alcoholic beer to industry news, Dry January reflections, and a pair of solid beer reviews to close things out. 🍺 🎙️ This Week’s Interview Dave is joined by Kevin Waltermire, co-founder of Comma, a THC-infused non-alcoholic beer brand built for people who love beer culture but want a different kind of buzz. What you’ll hear in the conversation:Why Comma focuses on “pauses” instead of quitting alcohol altogetherHow Comma differs from THC seltzers (spoiler: it’s actually brewed)The role of THC, CBD, and Lion’s Mane in creating a social, balanced experienceWhy Comma avoids shaming drinkers and embraces beer cultureWhere THC beverages fit into the future of craft beerThoughts on regulation, age-gating, dosage limits, and synthetic THCWhat new beer styles (and even wine 👀) Comma is exploring next🛒 Where to find Comma:Direct-to-consumer at enjoycomma.comChicago area bottle shops including Garfield’sAlcohol-alternative retailers nationwide📰 Beer & Beverage NewsA bipartisan Credit Card Competition Act could lower swipe fees for small businesses, including breweriesAllagash Brewing Company announces a Maine Blueberry Ale coming this springBoulevard Brewing Company releases a Dubai-style chocolate ale (13.5% ABV, limited availability)BuzzBallz launches a pink diamond engagement ring promo for Valentine’s DayFirestone Walker Brewing Company reveals the brewery lineup for the 2026 Firestone Walker Invitational (tickets on sale February 4)🧃 Dry January Check-InDave wraps up his final week of Dry JanuaryDown 7 pounds and feeling good heading into what promises to be a “wet February”🍺 Beer Reviews Non-Alcoholic Review:Galaxy Ripple Imperial IPA from Best Day Brewing65 caloriesWest Coast-leaning bitterness with solid hop characterA standout NA option worth grabbingRegular Beer Review:Farm to Fist Fresh Hop IPA from Revolution Brewing7.5% ABVCentennial, Crystal, Amarillo & Comet hopsA must-buy for West Coast and fresh-hop fans🍻 Final Thoughts From THC beverages and NA beer to fresh hop IPAs and industry policy, this episode hits a little bit of everything. Big thanks to Kevin Waltermire for the conversation—and as always… Sometimes the beer in front of you is the best one yet. Enjoy Comma Hemp Beverage Alliance Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

Data, Dollars, and the Business of Beer (feat. Matt Gacioch, Brewers Association) Host: Dave Zalatoris Network: Beer Media Group Craft beer isn’t just passion projects and taproom vibes — it’s big business. On Episode 287 of Beer In Front, Dave digs into the numbers, trends, and realities shaping today’s beer industry with Matt Gacioch, staff economist at the Brewers Association. From rising costs and tighter margins to non-alcoholic growth and why January is brutal for breweries, this episode takes a clear-eyed look at where craft beer stands in 2026 — and where it’s headed. What You’ll Hear in This Episode The State of Craft Beer in 2026 Why craft beer has shifted from “If you build it, they will come” to a Moneyball-style, data-driven industryWhat a “maturing market” actually means for breweriesWhy neighborhood taprooms and hospitality matter more than everCosts, Tariffs, and Tight Margins How aluminum, equipment tariffs, and inflation are squeezing breweriesWhy many breweries can’t raise prices without losing customersThe looming impact of 10-year lease renewals from the 2010s boomClosures vs. Openings: Context Matters Why more closures than openings sounds scarier than it really isThe difference between individual brewery pain and industry-wide healthWhy shuttered brewery spaces are staying empty longerWhat Business Models Are Working Why hyper-local, hospitality-focused breweries are holding up betterHow large regional craft breweries benefit from economies of scaleWhy distribution is harder — but not impossible — for new entrantsNon-Alcoholic & Low-ABV Beer Growth Why NA beer still has major runwayThe importance of occasion-based drinkingHow local breweries making NA versions of flagship beers could push the category forwardThe Rise of the 19.2oz Stovepipe Why high-ABV stovepipes make sense in today’s economyGen Z drinking myths vs. what the data actually showsSurviving Dry January Why January is always the toughest month for breweriesProgramming, community, and creativity as survival toolsWhy breweries need to offer more than “just beer” in winterReasons for Optimism Craft beer’s role as a social connectorWhy community still wins — even in uncertain timesWhy beer isn’t a fad, and never has been🍻 Beers Featured on the Show Beer In Front (NA Edition) NA Ninja vs. Unicorn – Pipeworks Brewing Company A standout non-alcoholic double IPA with real body, foam, and bitterness — proof that NA beer keeps getting better.Additional Beer Review Turbo Reaper IPA – Three Floyds Brewing A West Coast-leaning IPA with bold can art, solid hop character, and easy availability (yes, even at Target).📰 Beer & Beverage News Highlights Dos Equis brings back The Most Interesting Man in the WorldGoose Island announces a new barrel-aged stout Ska Brewing enters the low-dose THC beverage spaceDogfish Head collaborates with Survivor on a new IPAAmerican Airlines adds Athletic Brewing NA beer to flightsSierra Nevada doubles down on sustainabilityAlarmist Brewing announces closure — a tough loss for Chicago beerBrewers Association Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

Episode 286 of Beer In Front covers a lot of ground, blending beer news, personal updates, product reviews, and a deeper look at the non-alcoholic beer category. Dave Zalatoris opens the show with a Dry January check-in, sharing progress so far—down 4.4 pounds thanks to more water, NA beers, and watching calories. While the scale is moving in the right direction, better sleep hasn’t followed yet, proving Dry January isn’t a cure-all, but it’s still paying off. The episode then dives into beer and beverage news from around the country. Highlights include Kishwaukee Brewing’s elderberry ale made with berries grown at McHenry County College, Goat Patch Brewing reopening the former Pikes Peak Brewing location, and several Denver-area events, including a Belgian beer documentary screening at Bruz Beers. Dave also shares excitement over Great Lakes Brewing expanding their Irish beer lineup, Troegs bringing back Nugget Nectar, Lakefront Brewery’s “My Turn” blueberry peach lager, and Firestone Walker celebrating 30 years with anniversary releases and a refreshed mix pack. A major segment of the episode focuses on the rise of non-alcoholic beer, with a history and perspective on Athletic Brewing Company. Founded in 2017 by Bill Shufelt and brewer John Walker, Athletic helped redefine the NA category by limiting alcohol creation during brewing instead of stripping it out later. Dave explains how Athletic became the dominant NA brand, why their early success mattered, and why drinkers shouldn’t overlook other breweries now producing excellent non-alcoholic options. Later, Peggy returns to review a THC beverage from Wynk, the Black Cherry Fizz. With zero calories, zero sugar, and a balanced 5mg THC / 5mg CBD dose, it earns a strong recommendation as an approachable alcohol alternative. Dave wraps things up with a non-alcoholic beer review of Sierra Nevada’s Trail Pass Hazy IPA—big, dank aroma up front, but solid citrus and fruit flavor in the glass. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

Dry January Doesn’t Mean Ditching Your Local Brewery Happy New Year! I kick off 2026 with a Dry January check-in and a reminder that taking a break from alcohol doesn’t mean abandoning your favorite breweries — especially during one of the toughest months of the year. I'll share smart, simple ways to support breweries without drinking, including buying merch and gift cards, ordering NA beers or hop waters, showing up for events, grabbing food, leaving reviews, and being the designated driver for friends. The episode also touches on the most unexpected beer news of the week: the Pop-Tarts Bowl, complete with beer and pastry pairings. Plus, I went down a tech rabbit hole after testing ChatGPT’s ability to generate a Midwest-style hazy IPA recipe — raising the question of whether AI should ever play a role in brewing. 🍻 Beer ReviewsSierra Nevada Trail Pass Golden (NA) – Looks the part but falls flat on flavor.Central Waters Rift IPA – A well-balanced, flavorful IPA with great hop character and a clean finish.As always, I'll wrap things up by encouraging listeners to keep showing up for local breweries — pint or no pint.  Sometimes the beer in front of you is the best one yet. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group