Rod J BeerVentures, a channel where I as a beer enthusiast, beer drinker, beer aficionado, and beer whatever, share various things around beer in a fun and entertaining way, or at least that's the goal.
Non-alcoholic (N.A.) beer is on the rise, and in this episode, we dive deep into the movement with Jamie Fay, CEO of RationAle Brewing! This episode is a replay of my YouTube livestream interview with Jamie, where we discuss how RationAle is redefining craft N.A. beer with bold flavors and innovative brewing techniques.In this conversation, we cover:
I'm excited to bring you this special edition of the Rod J BeerVentures YouTube Replay Podcast, featuring my live conversation with Tim Weaver, founder of The Brand Weaver. Tim joined me to unpack why branding isn't just window‑dressing—it's the foundation your brewery needs to thrive in today's crowded market.In our conversation, recorded live (check out the full video link above), Tim walks us through why the old days of SEO and generic branding are over—and why strategic, emotionally compelling storytelling is the real currency of beer marketing in 2025. Drawing on real client success stories, he explains how breweries have doubled revenue, racked up new trade accounts week after week, and even won national awards for rebrands LinkedIn+12brewersjournal.info+12Listen Notes+12.We discuss:Why stand‑out branding isn't optional anymore—and how even small breweries can compete.The huge opportunity lost when brand identity is reduced to just a logo.Tim's view: diversify your offerings or risk fading into irrelevance.Practical, actionable moves that any brewery can implement—whether you're designing taproom posters, revamping your beer website, or redefining your storytelling.If you're a brewer, a beer marketer, or anyone building a beer brand—this episode is full of no‑fluff insights to help you get strategic. I share my own takeaways after the chat, and Tim's practical tips will have you rethinking everything from label copy to staff training. Tune in, grab a pint, and let's brew something meaningful.Check out more from Tim on the Brand Weaver website here: https://thebrandweaver.co.uk/Follow and connect more with Rod J here: rodjbeerventures.com
Hey there, beer lovers! In this episode, I'm taking you behind the scenes of my recent trip to Indianapolis, where I had the chance to attend an epic beer event—this time, as part of the media! From exclusive sips and brewer chats to standout pours and surprising finds, I'm recapping it all. Whether you're a hop head, a stout fan, or just curious about the beer scene in Indy, trust me—you're gonna want to hear what went down. Grab a pint and let's talk beer!Connect with Rod J below:
This episode is a YouTube replay of the launch of a Beer Media Group collaboration: the Midwest Beer Show, featuring me and Dave Zalatoris of Beer In Front. As proud members of the Beer Media Group, Dave and I teamed up to deliver a round‑up of the latest Midwest beer news: regional brewery openings, seasonal releases, and stylistic shifts that are defining craft beer right now.We also pop open a few choice beers and riff on aroma, flavor profiles, mouthfeel, and what makes each one stand out.Expect a laid‑back, conversational rhythm—just two beer lovers riffing off each other. Dave's Chicago‑centric awareness and my feel of what is coming out of Ohio, and more specifically, the Cincinnati region, complement each other, creating a dynamic dialogue. But if you are in other states of the Midwest, we have you covered too, and if in other parts, we touch on some National news as well.If you missed the original YouTube broadcast, now's your chance to keep up with all the action here as well. But catching it live allows you to also be part of the conversation.And if you did catch it, consider this your on‑demand souvenir: real‑time banter, insider tipoffs, and beer media camaraderie—all in one lively replay. Grab your favorite pint and let's dive in. Cheers to good brews and better conversation!Website Details for Rod and Dave: rodjbeerventures.com and beerinfront.comContact Rod J:
With this podcast episode, I share my replay of being able to have Chelsea and Liz from Body By Beer join me for a special YouTube live stream! These two are redefining beer culture through their podcast, and they've got some killer insights to share.
I'm excited to share this replay of “Behind the Beer Words”, a special live conversation with beer author David Nilsen. In this episode I sat down with David to unpack the journey behind his craft writing, explore how he pairs words with brews, and dig into how storytelling shapes our beer culture.We start off with David introducing his background—how he discovered his passion for both beer and writing, and what led him to become an author in this niche. I ask him about the creative process of translating flavors into language—how he conjures aroma, mouthfeel, and history into compelling beer narratives.As the conversation unfolds, David shares his favorite memorable brews and interviews, and I jump in with a few of my own BeerVentures highlights. He talks about the challenges of capturing the essence of a beer in prose, and I ask him to recall a beer that completely surprised him—and how he conveyed that surprise on the page.We also dive into practical advice: tips for new writers covering beer, how to engage readers without overwhelming with jargon, and how beer storytelling can elevate both the brew and the brewer. I highlight some standout quotes from the live chat, and we riff on audience questions about tasting notes, brewing trends, and favorite beer–food pairings.The replay captures real-time banter, laughter, and impromptu tasting moments—plus some bonus beer trivia I slipped in. Whether you're into craft beer, creative writing, or just love hearing great stories behind your favorite brews, this episode has something for you.Tune in for an hour of flavorful conversation that blends beer passion with writing inspiration—cheers to good storytelling and even better beers!Find out more about David Nilson from his website here: https://davidnilsenbeer.comConnect and follow Rod J and all his social media through his site here: rodjbeerventures.com
In this podcast episode, I share my YouTube replay and conversation with Aaron Gore, VP of Marketing and Sales at Beer30 by The Fifth Ingredient. We talk about how breweries are using data and analytics to improve their brewing process and business operations.Beer30 is a cutting-edge brewery management system that helps brewers optimize everything from recipe tracking and quality control to sales and distribution.Aaron will break down how this technology is changing the way craft breweries operate and why it's a game-changer for the industry.In this interview, we'll discuss:
In this episode, we're diving into a trending brewing ingredient that's stirring up interest across the craft beer world—malted rice. Long associated with sake and big-name adjunct lagers, malted rice is now stepping into the spotlight for all the right reasons.Inspired by an in-depth article from Beer & Brewing Magazine, Rod breaks down how brewers are using malted rice to create beers with cleaner profiles, lighter bodies, floral aromas, and surprising flavor nuance. From its high enzymatic efficiency to its role in gluten-free brewing and beyond, malted rice is proving it's not just filler—it's a feature.Whether you're a homebrewer curious about experimenting with alternative malts or a craft beer fan wanting to stay ahead of the trends, this episode is your perfect pour.Topics on tap:What makes malted rice different from traditional rice adjunctsIts impact on flavor, color, aroma, and clarityWhy it's becoming popular in lagers, hazy IPAs, and gluten-free beersBrewer insights and real-world applicationsRod's thoughts on the future of rice in craft beerSo grab your favorite pint, and let's explore this rising grain in the brewing game!
This podcast episode features my replay of my recent exciting YouTube beer conversation, where I talk with Kate Bernot, a respected beer writer and journalist, to discuss all things craft beer!
I'm excited to bring you the YouTube replay of “The Return Of The Happy Hour Live Stream” from July 18, 2025, where we kicked things off with fresh brews, bold opinions, and plenty of laughs. I'm pouring my favorite cold one, and you're invited to join—virtually—as we reconnect, catch up on beer news, and enjoy electrifying conversation with the extended BeerVentures community.In this episode, I dive into what's been brewing in craft beer land—from new releases landing on tap racks to surprising trends in sour beers and hazy IPAs. We also revisit memorable highlights from past live streams, reflect on channel growth since the last live session, and look forward to upcoming collabs and beer adventures. As always, real-time viewer questions and shout-outs kept the energy high. My buddy Todd and Shannon popped in via chat, and we had a blast riffing on local brewery expansions and beer trivia.Expect a casual, get‑you‑in‑a‑good‑mood vibe: beer tasting notes, fan stories, and the kind of candid chatter that only a live stream (and its replay) can deliver. I also share my vision for new video formats, including deeper brewery visits and themed beer challenges. If you're a longtime BeerVentures Brigade member or tuning in for the first time, this replay is a perfect blend of nostalgia, fresh beer talk, and next-level ideas.Whether you're checking in on your commute, chilling at home, or prepping your glass for another pour—thanks for listening. Let's pick up where we left off and keep the beer and community flowing.Follow more from Rod J at his site: rodjbeerventures.com
I'm thrilled to bring you the replay of my recent Midwest Beer Show Live Stream, hosted alongside Dave Zalatoris of Beer In Front. This episode is packed with fresh headlines, tasting pours, and lively opinions on everything happening in the beer space.From the very start, Dave and I dive into the latest craft beer news—covering brewery openings, regional releases, and the trends that are shaping the Midwest scene. As always, I crack open a few standout bottles and walk you through each pour: the aroma, mouthfeel, flavors, and overall impressions. Our candid commentary and lighthearted banter give you the feeling of being right here at my bar counter.Throughout the stream, we also field listener questions, sharing thoughts on pairing suggestions, off‑the‑wall beer cocktails, and where to find elusive limited releases. I talk about how I approach beer judging, what I look for in a pour, and the importance of freshness and temperature control. Dave adds his thoughtful perspective from his own tastings, and the conversation flows naturally—thoughtful but fun.As a long‑time beer guy, I reflect on how the Midwest beer scene has evolved in 2025—what's thriving, what's trending, and what's worth checking out this summer. You'll hear insider tidbits on breweries to look out for, surprising flavor profiles, and even a few lesser-known local gems that deserve more recognition.Whether you're a podcast listener or tuning in for the first time, this episode gives you the full live‑stream experience in an audio‑friendly format. Pour yourself a beer, settle in, and enjoy the camaraderie of two beer lovers geeking out over quality brews and regional beer culture.Thanks for listening, and raise a glass with me—cheers to good beer and good conversation!Check out Rod J's social media and contact details here: rodjbeerventures.comCheck out Dave Z's social media and contact details here: beerinfront.com
This podcast episode is the YouTube replay of "The Happy Hour With Rod J and Friends," which premiered on 1/2/25. We discuss some of the latest beer and not-so-beer happenings over a few drinks. In this episode, I am joined by Todd and Shannon from What's Your Beer and Ray from The Alconauts! Both can be found on their respective YouTube channels. Did you know the Rod J BeerVentures podcast is ranked by Feedspot as the NUMBER ONE beer podcast? Check it out here along with others you may want to listen to: https://podcast.feedspot.com/beer_podcasts/.
This podcast episode is the YouTube replay of "The Happy Hour With Rod J and Friends," which premiered on 1/2/25. We discuss some of the latest beer and not-so-beer happenings over a few drinks. In this episode, I am joined by Dave from BeerInFront and Dan from FLX Beer Reviews! Both can be found on their respective YouTube channels.
This podcast episode features my YouTube replay of my personally highest-rated craft beers that I enjoyed for 2024. Out of 300 beers checked in during the year on Untappd, these are the ones I checked in for the Untappd App, these are the ones that scored best for me. From smooth lagers to bold IPAs, I've got you covered!
This podcast episode is the YouTube replay of "The Happy Hour With Rod J and Friends" which premiered on 12/26/24. We discuss some of the latest beer and not-so-beer happenings over a few drinks, and in this episode, I am joined by my buddy Todd as always, of What's Your Beer and Dave from BeerInFront! Both can also be found on YouTube and Dave can also be found wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.
On this podcast YouTube replay, I welcome Chris Tunstall to discuss his bartending history, knowledge of beer, and history of creating beer cocktails. Chris is the co-founder and Chief of Brand and Product Development at A Bar Above, as well as the face of the brand's educational YouTube channel and the former host of the A Bar Above Podcast. Check out more on A Bar Above here: https://abarabove.com as well as these various social media sites: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/ @Abarabove Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ABarAboveMixology Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/abarabove/
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer and not-so-beer happenings over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
In this YouTube replay podcast, I share beer news featuring Elysian Brewing, Sierra Nevada Brewing, Guinness, and others to update you on beer news you may have missed this week ending 11/22/24.
This YouTube replay features my discussion exploring Ohio's craft beer landscape with Mary MacDonald and Justin Hemminger of the Ohio Craft Brewers Association. Find out why you may want to check out the Ohio beer scene! Check out the Ohio Craft Brewers Association at https://ohiocraftbeer.org to learn more and see how you can support Ohio's craft breweries.
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer and not-so-beer happenings over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
This YouTube replay features my discussion of the all-new American Craft Beer Hall of Fame with Marty Nachel, its Founder and President and the Author of Beer for Dummies and Homebrewing for Dummies among other books.
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer and not-so-beer happenings over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer and not-so-beer happenings over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer and not-so-beer happenings over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer happenings and not-so-beer happening, over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer happenings and not-so-beer happening, over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
This podcast episode features the YouTube livestream replay of my Beer Spotlight interview with Chase of Nutmeg2Palmetto. We discuss his beer channel and growth on YouTube, and of course, also enjoy a few beers.
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer happenings and not-so-beer happening, over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
This podcast replay comes from my livestream guest appearance on The Lager Room with Jersey Johnny and the Beer Samurai, where we had a great, entertaining discussion about beer. Check out the Lager Room channel here as well and give them a subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@UCs6Ze39qynU2TsZougx_VvQ
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer happenings and not-so-beer happening, over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
This podcast episode features the YouTube livestream replay of my Beer Spotlight interview with Gerben of Dutch Beer Geek. We discuss his beer channel and growth on YouTube, and of course, also enjoy a few beers.
This podcast episode features the YouTube livestream replay of my Beer Spotlight interview with Shane of Shane's Craft Beer Review. We discuss his beer channel, and his growth on YouTube and enjoy a couple of beers.
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer happenings and not-so-beer happening, over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer happenings and not-so-beer happening, over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer happenings and not-so-beer happening, over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
This podcast episode touches on International Beer Day. Due to the courtesy of Paulaner USA and Tsingtao, I will discuss the two beers they provided and touch on other details around this created day.
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer happenings and not-so-beer happening, over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always. In this episode, we do so while exploring National IPA Day!
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer happenings and not-so-beer happening, over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer happenings and not-so-beer happening, over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
This podcast episode features my appearance as an interview guest on Chad'z Beer Podcast. Check it out as we discuss various beer topics check out Chad here as well on his channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ChadzBeerReviews.
The Happy Hour With Rod J and Co. live stream is where Rod J goes live with other friends to discuss some of the latest beer happenings and not-so-beer happening, over a few drinks, which are most often beer but not always.
This podcast episode is the YouTube Happy Hour replay from 6/27/24 held weekly on Thursdays at 8 pm Eastern. Feel free to join us live, share your drinks, ask questions, drop comments, or sit back and enjoy this virtual bar hosted by me and my co-host friends! This episode features us again having fun sharing some beers while discussing some things from inside and outside, of the beer world. Don't forget to check my website and the links below for other good beer things!
This podcast episode is the YouTube Happy Hour replay from 6/20/24 held weekly on Thursdays at 8 pm Eastern. Feel free to join us live, share your drinks, ask questions, drop comments, or sit back and enjoy this virtual bar hosted by me and my co-host friends! This episode features us again having fun sharing some beers while discussing some things from inside and outside, of the beer world. Don't forget to check my website and the links below for other good beer things!
This podcast episode is the YouTube Happy Hour replay from 6/13/24 held weekly on Thursdays at 8 pm Eastern. Feel free to join us live, share your drinks, ask questions, drop comments, or sit back and enjoy this virtual bar hosted by me and my co-host friends! This episode features us again having fun sharing some beers while discussing some things from inside and outside, of the beer world. Don't forget to check my website and the links below for other good beer things!
This podcast episode is the YouTube Happy Hour replay from 6/6/24 held weekly on Thursdays at 8 pm Eastern. Feel free to join us live, share your drinks, ask questions, drop comments, or sit back and enjoy this virtual bar hosted by me and my co-host friends! This episode features us again having fun sharing some beers while discussing some things from inside and outside, of the beer world. Don't forget to check my website and the links below for other good beer things!
This podcast episode is the YouTube Happy Hour replay from 5/30/24 held weekly on Thursdays at 8 pm Eastern. Feel free to join us live, share your drinks, ask questions, drop comments, or sit back and enjoy this virtual bar hosted by me and my co-host friends! This episode features us again having fun sharing some beers while discussing some things from inside and outside, of the beer world. Don't forget to check my website and the links below for other good beer things!
This podcast episode is the YouTube Happy Hour replay from 5/23/24 held weekly on Thursdays at 8 pm Eastern. Feel free to join us live, share your drinks, ask questions, drop comments, or sit back and enjoy this virtual bar hosted by me and my co-host friends! This episode features us again having fun sharing some beers while discussing some things from inside and outside, of the beer world. Don't forget to check my website and the links below for other good beer things!
This podcast episode is the YouTube Happy Hour replay from 5/16/24 held weekly on Thursdays at 8 pm Eastern. Feel free to join us live, share your drinks, ask questions, drop comments, or sit back and enjoy this virtual bar hosted by me, and my co-host friends! This episode features us again having fun sharing some beers while discussing some things from inside and outside, of the beer world. Don't forget to check my website and the links below for other good beer things!
This podcast episode is the YouTube Happy Hour replay from 5/2/24 held weekly on Thursdays at 8 pm Eastern. Feel free to join us live, share your drinks, ask questions, drop comments, or sit back and enjoy this virtual bar hosted by me, and my co-host friends! This episode features us again having fun sharing some beers while discussing some things from inside and outside, of the beer world. Don't forget to check my website and the links below for other good beer things!
This podcast episode is the YouTube Happy Hour replay from 4/25/24 held weekly on Thursdays at 8 pm Eastern. Feel free to join us live, share your drinks, ask questions, drop comments, or sit back and enjoy this virtual bar hosted by me, and my co-host friends! This episode features us again having fun sharing some beers while discussing some things from inside and outside, of the beer world. Don't forget to check my website and the links below for other good beer things!