In this episode, Host Chris interviews Jonathan Hooten (Hootie), founder of ParadYm Data, an expert in beverage data with 25+ years of experience. They discuss the fundamentals of beverage data, including depletions and sales data, emphasizing their importance for understanding the market and forecasting. 

Hootie highlights the evolution of data transparency in the industry, enabling a fact-based decision making process. Key metrics for craft brewers, such as segment, style, size, price, and promotion, are explored, along with the distinction between strategy and tactics.

If you are looking to leverage data and AI to transform your business operations, connect with Jonathan Hooten by heading over to the website paradymdata.com

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In this Get Hoptimized Podcast episode, host Chris speaks with beverage industry veteran Sam Anderson of BevAssets. Sam unpacks the intricate strategies enabling craft breweries to master complex distribution systems, guiding breweries on how to efficiently move products from production to wholesaler and strategically maintain their vital shelf space in retail stores. 

The discussion also covered other critical aspects like managing production capacity, leveraging data for growth, the power of "Feet on the Street" sales tactics, and adapting to the evolving landscape of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

To unlock your brand's full potential and gain direct insights from Sam's experience in Beverage Distribution Channels, connect with him on LinkedIn or simply email at sam@bevassets.com. Explore BevAssets comprehensive solutions on their website at bevassets.com

Connect with Sam on Socials
IG - @beveragemansam
Meta - @Beverage Man Sam

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Neon Drive by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck 

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In this episode of the Get Hoptimized Podcast, Host Chris welcomes Richard Eklund, founder of Add-A-Tap as He joins us to discuss his company's innovative easy-to-use draft beverage solution that brings quality pour to any setting. These systems empower breweries and bars to expand their beverage offerings, enhance sales, and streamline operations at festivals.

If you're a Brewery, Bar or Event Organizer looking to expand your offerings and diversify your menu with the flexibility of a portable draft system, then head over to www.addatap.com to get in touch with Richard Eklund. Also find out more information about his products, pricing availability, and other service offerings.

-Music Credit-

Neon Drive by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck 

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com 

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In this episode of the Get Hoptimized Podcast, host Chris sat down with CPG distribution veteran Mike Levinson, founder of Food Service Octopus, to explore how craft beverage brands can creatively expand their reach beyond the crowded "ocean" of major grocery chains. Mike's two decades of experience in the consumer packaged goods, foodservice, and retail sectors offer invaluable insights into how small brands can thrive by thinking differently about distribution.

To Unlock new growth opportunities in Food Service and Alternative Channels, connect with Mike Levinson on LinkedIn for direct insights, or discover his full suite of solutions by heading to his website at fsoctopus.com. 

-Music Credit-

Neon Drive by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck 

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com 

Creative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0)

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Chris chats with brewery branding expert Tim Weaver of The Brand Weaver. They dive into creating memorable brand experiences for breweries, discussing customer touchpoints like taprooms, labels, and more. Tim shares insights on helping breweries stand out, and strategies for building a unique brand identity that resonates with customers.

To connect with Tim Weaver, head over to https://thebrandweaver.co.uk/

-Music Credit-

Neon Drive by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck 

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com 

Creative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0)

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James Gourley, an IP lawyer, discusses intellectual property in the Craft Beer Industry on the Get Hoptimized Podcast. Key insights include:

• Trademarks and Branding, Brewery Names ("house marks"), Beer Names, and avoiding Legal Issues.
• Copyrights and Creative Contents: Ownership of label art, AI art, and music in social media.
• Trade Secrets and Recipes: Protecting recipes and processes.
• Legal Disputes and Enforcements: Legal help, trademark registration, and handling infringements.

For more information on how to get in touch with James, head over to www.caglaw.com

-Music Credit-

Neon Drive by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck 

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com 

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This episode features Chris exploring effective marketing strategies for breweries and craft beverage companies. He highlights the crucial role of "owned channels", such as email lists, text message marketing, and websites.

In discussing marketing strategy, Chris highlights the importance of measurable outcomes. This means designing campaigns to directly track specific conversions like online pre-orders, event registrations, or coupon downloads. By doing so, businesses can effectively evaluate their marketing performance and ROAS which results in a far more efficient and effective marketing system.

For more information on Get Hoptimized, check out our website www.gethoptimized.com or follow us on social media @gethoptimized

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Neon Drive by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck 

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com 

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Just back from CBC 2025, Chris delivers his candid assessment of the expo. Was the shared booth experiment a success? What were the real conversations happening on the floor regarding costs and innovation? From the rise of THC to the tech taking hold, and even the surprising popularity of West Coast pilsners, Chris breaks down the key industry trends and offers his unfiltered thoughts on the value of attending.

Listen to more episodes of the Get Hoptimized Podcast on https://www.gethoptimized.com/podcast

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Neon Drive by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck 

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Join us as we dive deep with John Szymankiewicz of the Beer Law Center! In this episode, John tackles the critical legal questions surrounding the booming THC beverage market and other evolving trends in the craft industry. Learn why solid employee policies and adapting to trends are non-negotiable for success.

For more information on John and the Beer Law Center, head over to https://beerlawcenter.com/

-Music Credit-

Neon Drive by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck 

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com 

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Grant Pearce, founder of Live Tap List, explains how his software streamlines menu management for breweries. Inspired by his brother's struggles, Grant created Live Tap List to centralize menu updates across digital displays, websites, and print, while also integrating with POS systems. At the Craft Brewers Conference (CBC), he will demonstrate the software's flexibility and efficiency, particularly for marketing and customer engagement.

For more information on Grant and Live Tap Lists, head over to https://livetaplists.com/

-Music Credit-

Neon Drive by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck 

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com 

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This episode of the "Get Optimized" podcast features Ryan Halleman of Apex Group 360, who provides insights into the craft beer industry and the upcoming CBC 2025. 

Ryan discusses his excitement exhibiting at CBC 2025, which He views as the "Super Bowl of craft beer." He anticipates a shift in focus at this year's event, with more emphasis on cost reduction and margin improvement rather than big equipment purchases, due to current industry challenges.

For more information on Ryan and Apex Group 360 head to https://www.apexgroup360.com/

-Music Credit-

Neon Drive by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck 

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com 

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In this podcast episode, Chris interviews Ricky Wojcik of Perfectly Dosed, a Chicago-based company specializing in hemp emulsions. They discuss the growing market of THC-infused beverages, particularly in states where cannabis is legal, and how these products are appearing in regular retail stores. 

Ricky also shares his excitement about attending the Craft Brewers Conference (CBC) 2025, where Perfectly Dosed will be showcasing their expertise and answering questions about integrating THC into brewing operations.

For more information on Ricky Wojcik and Perfectly Dosed, head over to https://www.perfectlydosed.com/

-Music Credit-

Neon Drive by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck 

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com 

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In this episode of the Get Hoptimized Podcast, Chris interviews Ross Stensrud, co-founder of TapWyse, about the Craft Brewers Conference #CBC 2025 and how TapWyse helps breweries boost revenue through mobile apps. They discuss taproom maximization, industry trends like alternative beverages, and the benefits of membership programs. 

Ross also provides advice for first-time CBC attendees and emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interactions. He encourages breweries to consider TapWyse's solutions for enhancing customer engagement and creating new revenue streams. 

For more information about Ross and TapWyse, head over to https://tapwyse.com/

-Music Credit-

Neon Drive by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck 

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com 

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In this episode, we dive into the upcoming Craft Brewers Conference (CBC), known as the "Super Bowl" of brewing events, with Dan Klasen from the Beverage Federation.

Dan shares his valuable insights for navigating CBC, especially for first-timers and growing breweries. We discuss the evolving brewing industry, including the rise of contract brewing and alternative beverage lines like wine and THC-infused products.

Dan emphasizes the importance of planning ahead, scheduling vendor meetings, and reviewing operational costs to maximize your CBC experience. We also explore strategies for business owners to delegate tasks and focus on strategic growth. Whether you're attending CBC or looking to improve your brewery's operations, this episode is packed with actionable advice.

For more information about Dan and the Beverage Federation, head to www.beveragefederation.com/

-Music Credit-

Neon Drive by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck 

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com 

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In this interview, we are speaking with Ross Stensrud, Co-Founder of TapWyse. His company builds apps for breweries that add revenue streams and improve customer communication. We’ve had the chance to see the data for ourselves and speak with Ross on multiple occasions about the work TapWyse is doing – we like what we see! So we asked Ross onto the show to answer questions about what apps can really do for your brewery and things you should consider when building one. 

Learn more about TapWyse at www.tapwyse.com and connect with Ross at ross@tapwyse.com. 


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This monthly edition of the podcast is all about answering YOUR questions on digital marketing and craft beer. 

This month, we're talking about: 

• Why Your Reach on Instagram Posts is Low Recently
• How To Structure Ads for Multiple Locations
• Should You Care About Email Marketing
• What is Up With TikTok Lately

Want to get your questions answered next month? Shoot us an email at podcast@gethoptimized.com. 

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If you're headed to Vegas for CBC, here's your local's guide to finding great drinks and eats. The Las Vegas Strip is massive, with many tantalizing options for any palate. You won’t have any trouble finding world-class restaurants and bars named after celebrities. This guide isn’t for that. 

This is for folks looking for local secrets and undercover gems. If you’re in search of the best craft beer in town, delicious food that won’t blow your budget, or just some help to not feel lost, you’ll find it here. 

Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas! 

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We're joined by Derek Smith, a Brewery Consultant with Small Batch Standard, to discuss profitability for breweries in 2024 and beyond. Derek and his team are doing incredible work helping breweries break down their finances into specific "business units" and then analyze profitability from there. This conversation is packed with valuable insight into how that works and other trends for maximizing profits. 

Derek and Small Batch Standard are also giving you a FREE 2-page Business Unit Breakdown report. Just head to sbstandard.com/hop to take advantage. 

You can also connect with Derek on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/dereksmith9/ or by emailing him at derek@sbstandard.com. 

Learn more about Small Batch Standard at sbstandard.com 

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This monthly edition of the podcast is all about answering YOUR questions on digital marketing and craft beer. 

This month, we're talking about: 

• Marketing a brewery in a remote location
• Tips for promoting a seasonal beer garden 
• Which website builder to use for your brewery

Want to get your questions answered next month? Shoot us an email at podcast@gethoptimized.com. 

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This monthly edition of the podcast is all about answering YOUR questions on digital marketing and craft beer. 

This month, we're talking about: 

• Meta/Facebook account violations and how to get out of them
• Spam Messages within Meta Manager
• Best practices for sharing marketing assets

Want to get your questions answered next month? Shoot us an email at podcast@gethoptimized.com. 


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Intro/Outro Music by ComaStudio from Pixabay 

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For more information on Get Hoptimized, check out our website or follow us on social media.
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@gethoptimized

This monthly edition of the podcast is all about answering YOUR questions on digital marketing and craft beer. 

This month, we're talking about: 

• Where to get the most bang for your buck with digital marketing right now
• Whether or not you should use cloud storage systems 
• Promotional timelines for events like Valentine's Day and Super Bowl 

Want to get your questions answered next month? Shoot us an email at podcast@gethoptimized.com. 


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Intro/Outro Music by ComaStudio from Pixabay 

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Really excited to chat Label and Package Design with a pro like Jillian. She's got a TON of experience and has done work for some great brands like Central Waters, Omni, and Lagersmith. Whether you are working with designers or doing design yourself, there is a lot to glean from this interview. 

Learn more about Jillian and her company, Elbongürk, at www.elbongurk.com 

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When I hear "app," I usually cringe a little bit. There are seemingly a million of them out there and it's hard to find anything that actually works... But I tell you what, a new-ish app called Crackem has actually proven some success.

Founded by Aubrey Perry on the heels of the pandemic, Crackem is helping breweries 4X their return on investment into their program that gamifies user visits and rewards. Plus, they have over 4,000 active venues in all 50 states. So there is at least something working and worth asking a few questions about, right? 

Check out the full interview and learn more about Crackem at crackem.us

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A website is one of the most essential components of a marketing strategy, but building one can be downright painful. So how can you better navigate the process? 

We're joined by website expert Marcus Ohanesian, Founder of Perfect Evolution, to discuss website design and how to better plan for the process yourself. Marcus has over a decade of experience building websites and has lots of experience working with breweries too. 

So whether you're shopping for website builders right now, planning to DIY, or considering a redesign, this podcast will be super helpful. 

And if you want to get in touch with Marcus and his website design company, head over to www.perfectevolution.xyz

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We recently had a neat conversation about T-90 pellets. More specifically about their efficiencies… and inefficiencies. Our good friend Chris Holden chimed in on the topic. He is the dude heading up sales and marketing for The Hop Guild up in New York.

So if you're a brewer, you're going to be fascinated by what Chris has to say about ways you can save money, produce more revenue per batch, save water, and more.

This conversation is also for the folks selling products to brewers - hops, grain, stickers, tap handles, etc. There's a subtext to this conversation about understanding what problems you solve for your customer and communicating the value around those problems.

You're gonna love it. 

If you want to find out more about The Hop Guild and their new HOPSAUCE product, head to thehopguild.com/hopsauce 

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