Podcast
Beer In Front
Hosted by Dave Zalatoris · EN
I'm Dave, a regular Chicago Beer Guy with a podcast about some old school beers and new classics. Sometimes the Beer In Front of you is the best one yet!
https://www.patreon.com/beerinfront
https://linktr.ee/BeerInFront
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.
https://www.patreon.com/beerinfront
https://linktr.ee/BeerInFront
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.
38episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
310 Nicole Bentler From Pocono Mountain Farms
4d ago00:43:00Tap to summarizeBeer In Front – Episode 310 Show NotesThis week on Beer In Front, we're mixing things up with a conversation that isn't about beer...at least not at first. Dave welcomes Nicole Bentler, founder of Pocono Mountain Farms, to talk about one of the beverage world's most intriguing newcomers: maple water. Nicole explains how this naturally hydrating drink is harvested straight from maple trees before it becomes syrup, why athletes and health-conscious consumers are embracing it, and what it's like running a 450-acre certified organic maple farm in Pennsylvania. From sustainability and fireflies to bourbon pairings and recovery drinks, it's a fascinating look at a product you may not have considered before.Of course, there are plenty of beer discussions as well, including:Pollyanna Brewing's expansion into Chicago and the return of several Alarmist Brewing favorites.Maui Brewing's first non-alcoholic beer, Maui Lite.Firestone Walker and Toppling Goliath teaming up on a collaborative West Coast Double IPA.A preview of Goose Island's 2026 Bourbon County Apple Crisp variant.New Belgium collaborations featuring peach bellini and tropical-inspired summer beers.Beer ReviewsBKS Artisan Ales – Counterculture IPA (Kansas City, MO)A flavorful hazy IPA with bright fruit character, a creamy mouthfeel, and excellent balance. A standout beer from one of Kansas City's top breweries.Revolution Brewing – Supermassive Café DethA bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout infused with Dark Matter Coffee that delivers rich coffee, bourbon, chocolate, and creamy sweetness in every sip. Another exceptional release from Revolution's celebrated Deep Wood Series.Whether you're curious about innovative beverages, looking for new beers to hunt down, or just want another entertaining conversation from the world of craft beer and beyond, Episode 310 has something for everyone.Grab a beer...or maybe a maple water...and enjoy the show!Pocono Maple WaterBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.Beer Media Group
Transcribe →
310 Chicago Beer History With Andrew Mason
2w ago00:39:22Tap to summarizeChicago Brewing History of the 1990s with Andrew MasonChicago's craft beer scene didn't happen overnight.This week, Dave sits down with longtime brewer Andrew Mason to discuss his new Kickstarter project, Chicago Brewing History: The '90s, an ambitious documentary series preserving the stories, people, and breweries that built Chicago's modern beer culture. Andrew shares his own journey through breweries including Flossmoor Station, Mickey Finn's, Three Floyds, Solemn Oath, and beyond before explaining why now is the time to capture the memories of the pioneers who shaped one of America's greatest beer cities.They discuss:Why the 1990s were the defining decade for Chicago craft beerGoose Island, Three Floyds, Real Ale Fest, and other influential breweries and institutionsThe brewers whose stories deserve to be preservedHow Chicago's neighborhood tavern culture helped shape today's beer sceneThe challenges facing modern breweries—and why local taprooms remain so importantWhy documenting brewing history matters before these stories disappearAndrew also explains how listeners can support the Kickstarter campaign and help bring this project to life.After the interview, Dave cracks open a classic Three Floyds Zombie Dust Pale Ale and reflects on the beer's legendary status—from the days when it was nearly impossible to find to becoming one of the Midwest's defining craft beers.Dave also gives a recovery update following elbow surgery, previews upcoming episodes on Pocono Maple Water, Tang, and the history of Chicago taverns, and asks listeners to send along future show ideas while he's recovering.Featured Beer🍺 Three Floyds Zombie Dust Pale AleLearn MoreSupport Andrew Mason's Chicago Brewing History: The '90s Kickstarter project through the links in this episode's description.Have an episode idea or guest suggestion? Dave@BeerInFront.com Follow Beer In Front on social media for new episodes, beer reviews, interviews, and everything happening in the craft beer world.If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow beer lover. It helps more people discover independent beer podcasts.Cheers!Chicago Beer HistoryBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.Beer Media Group
Transcribe →
2026 Homebrew Con Recap
3w ago00:49:18Tap to summarizeBeer In Front – Episode 309Homebrew Con Returns, Riverbend Malt & The Brew DepotHomebrew Con is back, and this week I'm talking with two people who are helping shape the future of homebrewing.After a quick update on my recent elbow surgery (and an apology to anyone I may have unintentionally offended while under anesthesia), I share a few stories from the beer world before diving into conversations from Homebrew Con in Asheville, North Carolina.First, I talk with Tina Hoffert of Riverbend Malt House about the growing craft malt movement, why locally sourced malt matters, and how malt contributes far more than just fermentable sugars. We also recap Homebrew Con, discuss regional ingredients, and explore how Riverbend is connecting farmers, maltsters, brewers, and homebrewers.Then I'm joined by Joshua Lord, owner of The Brew Depot in Georgia. Joshua shares his journey from homebrewer to homebrew shop owner, discusses why local homebrew shops remain vital to the brewing community, and explains how craft malt is changing the way homebrewers think about ingredients. We also recap Homebrew Con and talk about why the future of homebrewing looks brighter than many people realize.Also in this episode:Recovery update after elbow surgeryGreat American Beer Festival ticket newsThree Floyds and Binny's collaboration: The MorriganFour Roses Experimental Series finished in Mizunara oakPipeworks introduces a non-alcoholic Lizard King Pale AleNational Homebrew Competition highlightsBeer In Front Beer Review: Classic Fat Tire Amber Ale returnsWhether you're an experienced homebrewer, a craft beer fan, or simply curious about what goes into making great beer, this episode celebrates the people and ingredients that keep craft brewing moving forward.Featured GuestsTina Hoffert – Riverbend Malt HouseJoshua Lord – The Brew DepotBeer Reviewed🍺 New Belgium Classic Fat Tire Amber AleIf you enjoy the show, please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and share the episode with the beer lovers in your life.Put it in the cart!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.Beer Media Group
Transcribe →
308 Summer Happenings At Revolution Brewing
4w ago00:31:46Tap to summarizeThis week, Dave chats with Kim Vavrick from Revolution Brewing about everything happening this summer at Chicago's largest independent brewery. First up is Fundraiser Friday on June 26th, benefiting the Brave Space Alliance. Kim explains how the program works, why supporting local organizations is important to Revolution, and how beer lovers can help simply by enjoying a draft beer. The conversation also covers:Fundraiser Fridays and upcoming partnershipsCommunity-focused events like Physical Media Night and the International Language CaféThe new Cold Time Mix PackThe success of Ante Zero, Revolution's non-alcoholic version of Anti-Hero IPADeep Wood Series Season Tickets and what barrel-aged beer fans can expect in 2026Collaborations with Dark Matter Coffee, Private Press, and More BrewingSummer beer releases, Oktoberfest plans, and World Cup watch parties at the taproomHow Revolution continues to strengthen its connection to Chicago through community involvement, partnerships, and great beerFeatured Beers Dave samples all four beers in the new Cold Time Mix Pack:🍺 Cold Time Premium Lager🍺 Cold Time Amber Lager🍺 Cold Time Extra Export Lager🍺 Cold Time Dry Crisp Rice LagerCheck Out Million Podcasts for more top beer related shows! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.Beer Media Group
Transcribe →
How Weight Loss Drugs Are Reshaping What We Eat And Drink
Jun 800:20:18Tap to summarizeWhat happens when millions of people simply stop wanting that second beer? In this episode of Beer In Front, I take a deep dive into the rapidly growing world of GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound—and explore how these drugs are reshaping the food and beverage industry. While most coverage focuses on weight loss, the bigger story may be changing consumer behavior. Research suggests GLP-1 medications don't just reduce appetite, they may also reduce cravings for alcohol, snacks, and other highly rewarding foods by affecting the brain's dopamine reward system. Why GLP-1 users are drinking significantly less alcoholNew research showing dramatic reductions in alcohol cravingsHow wine, beer, and spirits are being affected differentlyWhy bars and restaurants are seeing smaller checks and fewer repeat drink ordersThe projected $30-$55 billion impact on the food and beverage industryHow grocery shopping habits are changingThe opportunities for premium alcohol, craft beverages, and non-alcoholic alternativesWhy GLP-1 medications could become an important tool in treating alcohol use disorderWhat breweries, bars, restaurants, and food companies need to do to adaptAs adoption continues to grow and new oral versions of these medications reach the market, the effects on consumer spending and consumption habits may only accelerate.Whether you're in the beer business, restaurant industry, food manufacturing, or simply curious about how emerging health trends shape the economy, this episode explores one of the most important consumer shifts happening today.Statistic Sources1 in 8 U.S. adults currently on a GLP-1 drug KFF Health Tracking Poll, Nov 2025Up to 75% potential reduction in alcohol consumption Morgan Stanley 25% of GLP-1 users stopped drinking entirely Morgan Stanley41% reduction in daily drinking (clinical trial) JAMA Psychiatry2025 Wine down 52%, beer 43%, spirits 40% EY-Parthenon Survey10% of adults = 50% of all alcohol sold U.S. alcohol consumption data$30–55B projected F&B revenue loss by 2030–34 J.P. MorganFeb 2026 23% of households contain a GLP-1 user CNBC / industry data2026 Dinner traffic down 6% among regular users Restaurant industry analysis, 2026Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.Beer Media Group
Transcribe →
306 Merican Light Beer With Israel Dominguez
Jun 100:40:52Tap to summarizeThis week on Beer In Front, I sit down with Israel Dominguez, President of Merican Light Beer, to talk about building a modern lager brand with old-school appeal. After nearly a decade at Anheuser-Busch, Israel took what he learned from one of the biggest beer companies in the world and launched a brand focused on authenticity, community, and a simple mission: make a great American light lager.In This Episode:Israel's journey from Anheuser-Busch executive to beer entrepreneurThe inspiration behind Merican Light BeerWhy nostalgia, familiarity, and Americana are central to the brandHow Merican grew rapidly through community-focused marketingThe challenges of building a beer brand in today's crowded lager marketExpansion into North Carolina and Tennessee and plans for future growthMerican's commitment to supporting veterans, family farming, clean water initiatives, outdoor recreation, and youth sportsWhy light lagers continue to be one of the strongest segments in beer todayBeer Review: I get my hands on a can of Merican Light Beer and puts it to the test. The verdict? A crisp, crushable lager with subtle notes of wood and apple that make it stand out from the crowd. It's a perfect summer beer and could become a future fridge staple once it reaches Chicago.Also On The ShowBirthday weekend recap at Old Irving BrewingAn update on the upcoming elbow surgery and recovery plansA preview of next week's special solo episode examining how GLP-1 medications are changing alcohol consumption and impacting the food and beverage industries.Learn More Visit the official Merican Light Beer website: MericanBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.Beer Media Group
Transcribe →
305 Run The Bulls With Devon
May 2500:29:39Tap to summarizeDave is back with a Memorial Day weekend episode featuring beer news, craft beer chatter, and a wild conversation with Devon Douglas, the man attempting to convince Jason Kelce to run with the bulls in Pamplona by drinking a Garage Beer every single day until the event. Dave also checks in with updates on his elbow recovery, birthday week plans, and dives into some of the latest stories from around the beer world.Kelce To PamplonaBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.Beer Media Group
Transcribe →
304 Emrys Beer & Mead Works
May 2000:30:22Tap to summarizeIn episode 304 of Beer In Front, Dave heads to Washington State for a conversation with Emrys Beer & Mead Works founder Thomas Croskrey. The discussion dives deep into the world of mead, historical brewing traditions, local sourcing, and how Emrys is blending beer, mead, and elevated pub food into one unique destination. Dave also reviews a new Korean-style lager from Hopewell Brewing Company and says goodbye to an old favorite with one final Schlitz.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.Beer Media Group
Transcribe →
303 Craft Beer Week
May 1100:15:25Tap to summarizeThis week on the Beer In Front podcast, Dave celebrates both Illinois Craft Beer Week and American Craft Beer Week with a packed episode full of beer news, local brewery updates, playoff beer gimmicks, a killer lager from Goldfinger Brewing Company, and finally… a long-awaited review of the legendary Zima. Plus, a quick detour into punk rock with thoughts on the new album from Social Distortion.In This EpisodeCelebrating Illinois Craft Beer Week and American Craft Beer WeekIllinois Craft Beer Week passport program and brewery promotionsThoughts on the new Social Distortion album Born to KillBrewers Association concerns over tariff refunds and aluminum pricingBall Corporation’s can supply reportedly committed through 2030Illinois brewery updates from Hop Butcher For The World and Maplewood Brewery & DistilleryMichigan brewing collaboration between Brewery Vivant and Saugatuck Brewing CompanyNew West Coast pilsner “Boat Plane” from Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.Beer bats, hockey beer skates, and playoff drinking vessels taking over sportsAB InBev posts first quarterly beer sales increase in three yearsNew NA collaboration “Baller Melon” from Go Brewing and Hop ButcherTHC beverages arriving at select Target Corporation storesSummer release preview from Goat Patch Brewing CompanyBig-format Chelada releases from ModeloBeer Review: Goldfinger – Danube Swabian Dave cracks open Danube Swabian, an historical Vienna-style lager from Goldfinger Brewing. Rich toasted malt character, balanced hop spice, and classic lager drinkability make this one an instant winner. If you see the red can, Dave says one thing: “Put it in the cart.” Retro Review: Zima Returns After years of searching, Dave finally gets his hands on Japanese-market Zima thanks to a hookup from a coworker and friends at Japan Airlines. Does the iconic lemon-lime malt beverage still hold up after all these years? Spoiler alert: absolutely. Expect nostalgia, carbonation, and zero tolerance for people putting Jolly Ranchers in it.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.Beer Media Group
Transcribe →
How 2020 Changed Beer
May 702:21:42Tap to summarizeIf you didn't catch the livestream last week, here is the audio part of the Midwest Beer Show. I along with Rod J talked about how beer has changed since 2020. We spoke to people from The Brewers Association, Hop Butcher, and WildEdge Brewing Collective! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.Beer Media Group
Transcribe →