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Get ready—this episode is a hop lover’s dream!

In this episode of the Get Hoptimized Podcast, we sit down with Brian Clayton, CEO of Clayton Hops —New Zealand’s largest hop grower and most advanced hop processor. Brian takes us on a high-energy tour through the unique flavor profiles, next-level processing innovations, the future-forward hops and exciting new varieties that are driving global demand.

If you're looking to elevate your recipes with premium New Zealand hops, explore the full range of hop varieties straight from the source by hopping onto claytonhops.co.nz

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In episode 62 of the Get Hoptimized Podcast, we dive into what truly makes a website work. Jeff and Peter from Brandartica, a branding and web development agency, discussed the critical role of a website in a business's digital marketing ecosystem. 

The conversation covers the balance between creativity and functionality, the importance of brand consistency, and their process for building effective websites for both e-commerce and brick-and-mortar businesses in the food and beverage industry.

Develop a website that scales with growth by connecting with Jeff and Peter at Brandartica.agency They specialize in crafting high-impact branding and web solutions tailored to your business.

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The world of alcohol production is exciting, but it comes with a complex web of regulations from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). For breweries, distilleries, and other producers, staying compliant is crucial to avoid costly delays and penalties. 

In a recent episode of the Get Hoptimized podcast, host Chris sat down with Wendy Raymond, founder of Taps and Snaps and a seasoned TTB compliance consultant, to shed light on these critical issues. Key takeaway includes Common TTB Compliance Pitfalls to Avoid and many more. Avoid costly mistakes & stay ahead of changes!

Connect with Taps and Snaps today to streamline your TTB compliance! Visit their website at tapsandsnaps.com or find them on Meta, Instagram and LinkedIn

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Richard Carnegie, Director of Sales and Marketing at BuzzyBooth joins us on the Get Hoptimized Podcast and shares his experience on how bars, taprooms, and restaurants can turn in-person fun into online buzz. 

Richard unpacked how BuzzyBooth’s photo and marketing kiosks empower venues to seamlessly capture guest data, generate positive reviews, and drive social media engagement through an innovative auto opt-in marketing approach. Learn how digital word of mouth and smart tech can transform your guest experience into a powerful marketing engine.

Connect with Richard at buzzybooth.com to learn more on how to transform your guest experience and amplify your marketing efforts.

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We sat down with the incredible Jacob Hedges and Jason Brewer from Wandering Monsters to talk all things brand, content, and the power of family-friendly fun. From the flexible adaptation of their mascot across content and merch to keeping guests engaged with Duckpin Bowling, Wandering Monsters is doing some really fun (and smart!) stuff.

Don't forget to check out their awesome merchandise online and grab some gear to show your support!

If you're ready to add a money-maker to your spot, connect with Jacob and Jason by visiting wanderingmonstersbeer.com

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In this episode of the Get Hoptimized podcast, host Chris dives into the world of "In Real Life Brand Experiences" with special guests Al Schuster (President) and Heather Johnson from Polaris Brand Promotions. If you're a beverage brand running tastings or product demos, or considering it, this conversation is for you.

Al and Heather, with their extensive experience in nationwide promotional staffing and experiential marketing, share invaluable insights on how to create successful brand experiences. They cover everything from setting up events and staffing to measuring results.

For businesses looking to create unforgettable brand experiences, Polaris Brand Promotions offers comprehensive solutions, from their nationwide staffing expertise to full-service experiential provider capabilities (including fabricated booths, signage, and branded attire through strategic partners), they are equipped to bring your brand to life. 

To learn more and see examples of Polaris Brand Promotions' incredible work, visit polarisbrandpromotions.com

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Join us on this episode of the Get Hoptimized podcast as Marc Marashi, Project Manager at Malt Handling teams up with our host Chris Overlay and together they discuss everything about optimizing malt operations for Craft Brewers and Distillers.

Key talking points include:

🌽Mark's unique journey into the malt handling industry.
🌽The importance of milling for efficiency and the hidden costs of pre-milled grain.
🌽Crucial considerations for system design and installation, including large outdoor silos.
🌽Advice on updating current systems versus installing new ones, and dealing with spent grain.
🌽Essential safety measures for malt handling, particularly concerning combustible grain dust, and future industry trends.

The episode also covers significant safety considerations for breweries, especially regarding the combustible nature of grain dust and the importance of dust removal systems to prevent explosions and ensure a safe working environment.

Your brewing process deserves perfection. For expert guidance on bringing in fresh malt to spent grain removal, and everything in between, connect with Marc on LinkedIn or visit malthandling.com to discover a system that's tailored for your success.

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In this episode of the Get Hoptimized podcast, Host Chris chats with Kimberly Ross and Brian Beck from Middle Street Graphics and Display. Our guests share over 40 years of experience in beverage signage and displays, working with brands from global giants like Pepsi to local breweries.

This episode covers:

📢 What retail displays are, why they matter and how to use them

📢 Cost-effectiveness and sustainability: Debunking the myth that creative displays are always expensive, and exploring the eco-friendly aspects of corrugated displays.

📢 Measuring Effectiveness: Tips on tracking sales and understanding the ROI of display investments.

📢 The Future of Displays: How technology like QR codes and interactive elements are shaping the next generation of retail merchandising. 

📢 And more....

Ready to elevate your brand's retail presence? Learn more about how Kim, Brian, and the team at Middle Street Graphics & Display can help you create impactful, sales-driving displays. 

Visit their website middlestreetdisplay.com to explore their portfolio and discover solutions tailored to your unique needs.

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In the podcast episode "What Video Games Can Teach Us About Marketing," Chris from Get Optimized draws parallels between video game strategies and effective marketing.

He introduces the concept of gamification in everyday interactions and marketing, emphasizing the need for strategic thinking, adaptability, and understanding consumer behavior. The episode dives into three specific video games to illustrate these principles

If you're ready to apply these gaming lessons to your marketing strategy, be sure to listen to the full episode. For more insights and actionable advice on optimizing your business in Digital Advertising, Branding and Market Positioning and Execution, get in touch with Chris Overlay at Gethoptimized.com 

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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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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.

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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. 

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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/

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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

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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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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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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/

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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/

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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/

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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/

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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/

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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/

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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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