Legends Behind the Craft Drew Thomas Hendricks

Meet Justin Medcraft, Co-Founder of Mate Maker Co Hard Kombucha, and Josh Makler, the Brewmaster. This venture was born from a group of lifelong friends who reunited with a common mission: to bring transparency and better ingredients to the world of drinks.
Their community, a fusion of musicians, artists, brewers, and creatives, has fueled their journey. Mate Maker Hard Kombucha is their pioneering foray into beverages, and it's more than just a drink; it's a testament to their commitment to a positive impact on the planet and their community.
 
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 
Discover the origin story of Mate Maker Co and their mission to bring transparency and better ingredients to the world of beverages
Learn how the team recognized the exciting opportunity of introducing hard kombucha to Australia
Gain insights into Josh Makler's history and what sparked his passion for craft brewing
Dive into the challenges of transitioning from traditional beer brewing to the world of kombucha
Mate Maker Co's perspective on mindfulness and how it aligns with their commitment to better ingredients
Evaluate whether the mindfulness ethos resonates with Australian consumers and see how they've responded to kombucha
Discover the meticulous process of sourcing ingredients and crafting unique blends
Look into the vegan and gluten-free aspects of hard kombucha
Explore some of Mate Maker Co's standout releases, including Mate Maker POG Kombucha, Mango Peach Smash, and Pineapple Sundream
Get an insider's look at the general brewing process of hard kombucha and the experimentation with yeast, teas, and sugar
 
In this episode with Justin Medcraft and Josh Makler
Justin Medcraft and Josh Makler share the origin story of Mate Maker Co, a drinks business driven by the mission to bring transparency and better ingredients to the world of beverages. Discover how they brought hard kombucha to the Australian market and the challenges they faced in transitioning from traditional beer brewing and dive into the ethos of mindfulness in drinking and the importance of quality ingredients. 
In today’s episode of the Legends Behind the Craft podcast, Drew Thomas Hendricks is joined by Justin Medcraft, Founder, and Josh Makler, Brewmaster at Mate Maker Co Hard Kombucha. Explore their unique flavors, including the Mate Maker POG Kombucha, Mango Peach Smash, and Pineapple Sundream. Get an inside look into the brewing process of hard kombucha and the innovation driving Mate Maker Co's commitment to transparent ingredients.
 
Sponsor for this episode…
This episode is brought to you by Barrels Ahead.
Barrels Ahead is a wine and craft marketing agency that propels organic growth by using a powerful combination of content development, Search Engine Optimization, and paid search.
At Barrels Ahead, we know that your business is unique. That’s why we work with you to create a one-of-a-kind marketing strategy that highlights your authenticity, tells your story, and makes your business stand out from your competitors.
Our team at Barrels Ahead helps you leverage your knowledge so you can enjoy the results and revenue your business deserves.
So, what are you waiting for? Unlock your results today!
To learn more, visit barrelsahead.com or email us at hello@barrelsahead.com to schedule a strategy call.

Can Algul is the Co-Founder & CEO at Pubinno, a San Francisco-based company leading the charge in revolutionizing the draft beer industry. Can is not just a tech innovator; he's also a passionate beer connoisseur and a nature lover, embodying a unique blend of interests — from exploring the great outdoors to staying abreast of the latest tech trends. Thanks to Can's visionary leadership, Pubinno now spans 60 cities across three continents, making the Internet of Beer a reality with its disruptive product ecosystem, all while contributing to a Net Zero future. Pubinno's smart solutions, under Can's guidance, have eliminated waste and decarbonized the draft beer value chain, offering real-time data and future insights for the industry.
 
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 
Can Algul provides an overview of Pubinno, its mission, and its global reach
Dive into Pubinno's "Internet of Beer" concept and how Pubinno is transforming the draft beer experience through technology
Take insight from discussions on how Pubinno's solutions can prevent loss in unregulated pubs
Can Algul explains how AI is utilized to deliver the perfect pint
Explore specific case studies of pubs and bars implementing Pubinno's technology
An in-depth look at Pubinno's Smart Tap, Smart Hub, and Smart Clean technologies
Learn about Pubinno's commitment to sustainability and its Net Zero Manifesto
Can Algul compares the differences in the beverage industry between Tokyo, Istanbul, New York, and other regions
Discover the significance of machine learning in revolutionizing the food and beverage industry
Can Algul shares his personal mission as the CEO of Pubinno
 
In this episode with Can Algul
Step into the world of Pubinno, a company connecting the globe through AI and robotics-powered draft beer innovation. Join Can Algul, CEO of Pubinno, as we explore their mission to automate, standardize, and digitize draft beer operations while reducing waste and promoting sustainability. 
In today’s episode of the Legends Behind the Craft podcast, Drew Thomas Hendricks is joined by Can Algul, Co-Founder & CEO of Pubinno. Learn how Pubinno prevents losses for pub owners, leverages AI for the perfect pint and hear real-world case studies of their technology. Discover their Smart Tap, Smart Hub, and Smart Clean solutions, and explore their Net Zero Manifesto, driving the beverage industry towards sustainability. Gain insights into the unique dynamics of the beer business in different global cities and the role of machine learning in the food and beverage industry.
 
Sponsor for this episode…
This episode is brought to you by Barrels Ahead.
Barrels Ahead is a wine and craft marketing agency that propels organic growth by using a powerful combination of content development, Search Engine Optimization, and paid search.
At Barrels Ahead, we know that your business is unique. That’s why we work with you to create a one-of-a-kind marketing strategy that highlights your authenticity, tells your story, and makes your business stand out from your competitors.
Our team at Barrels Ahead helps you leverage your knowledge so you can enjoy the results and revenue your business deserves.
So, what are you waiting for? Unlock your results today!
To learn more, visit barrelsahead.com or email us at hello@barrelsahead.com to schedule a strategy call.

Neeta Mittal, Founder of LXV Wine, embarked on a love-fueled journey into the world of wine. Meeting her now husband, Kunal, in Berkeley, they both discovered their shared passion for wine. A chance visit to Paso, reminiscent of India's close-knit communities, ignited their passion for winemaking. As one of the first Indian women to own a U.S. winery, Neeta takes pride in fostering connections through culture, food, inspiration, and community. LXV Wine's recognition as a Top-10 tasting experience in America reflects her commitment to creating meaningful wine experiences.
 
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 
Get to know Neeta Mittal as she shares her journey into the wine industry, the allure of Paso Robles, and the community spirit that defines it
Explore the meaning behind LXV and how LXV Wine brings culture into the wine tasting experience
Listen as Neeta delves into the art of flavor pairings, how they complement and contrast wine
Explore unique spice pairings with each LXV Wine release and the importance of intensity and personalized flavors in pairing
See as Neeta discusses the dream of making wine in Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, and LXV's journey to realize it
Delve into the Willow Creek area's terroir and why it's ideally suited for Bordeaux varietals
Explore Paso Robles' transformation over the last decade, particularly its growing reputation for Cabernet and Bordeaux varietals
Find out more about Neeta’s role on the board of the Paso Robles CAB Collective and its significance in the Paso Robles wine industry
The impact of big players in the wine industry swallowing up smaller ones and whether it's a concern for Neeta and LXV
Discover Neeta’s soft spot as she talks about their furry friends
 
In this episode with Neeta Mittal
Explore the world of LXV Wine with Neeta Mittal. Join us as Neeta shares her journey from discovering Paso Robles to creating an immersive wine experience. Learn about LXV's unique tastings, flavor pairings, and Bordeaux varietals. 
In today’s episode of the Legends Behind the Craft podcast, Drew Thomas Hendricks and Bianca Harmon are joined by Neeta Mittal, Founder of LXV Wine. Discover the allure of Willow Creek's terroir and the Paso wine scene's evolution. Neeta's role in the Paso Robles CAB Collective and her perspective on industry changes add depth to the conversation. Plus, stay tuned for a heartwarming discussion about Neeta's furry friends. Cheers to wine, culture, and more with LXV Wine!
 
Sponsor for this episode…
This episode is brought to you by Barrels Ahead.
Barrels Ahead is a wine and craft marketing agency that propels organic growth by using a powerful combination of content development, Search Engine Optimization, and paid search.
At Barrels Ahead, we know that your business is unique. That’s why we work with you to create a one-of-a-kind marketing strategy that highlights your authenticity, tells your story, and makes your business stand out from your competitors.
Our team at Barrels Ahead helps you leverage your knowledge so you can enjoy the results and revenue your business deserves.
So, what are you waiting for? Unlock your results today!
To learn more, visit barrelsahead.com or email us at hello@barrelsahead.com to schedule a strategy call.

Meet Katarina Bonde, a Swedish-rooted individual whose path led her from the world of tech to the enchanting realm of winemaking. University classes kindled her fascination with wine, sparking journeys through Europe's vineyards. Settling in Seattle in the early nineties, Katarina's tech career intertwined with her growing passion for wine. She and her husband discovered the budding wine region of Dry Creek Valley, charmed by its family-owned wineries. Today, as Winemaker and Owner at West Wines, Katarina weaves her diverse background into every bottle, a harmonious blend of technology and terroir.
 
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 
Learn how Katarina's path led her to the wine industry, all the way from her roots in Sweden
Uncover the intriguing origins of West Wines and its unique legacy of female winemakers
Learn about Katarina's European approach to patience in winemaking and the significance of aging wines in barrels over decades
Join the conversation on the evolution of West Wines under different winemakers
Gain insights into the unexpected wine region of Sweden and its connection to Katarina's winemaking journey
Delve into the distribution landscape as Katarina discusses the balance between direct-to-consumer sales and the three-tier system
Discover how West Wines adapted during the pandemic
See Katarina's unique perspective on managing her roles in both the tech and wine industries
Gain insights into the art of balancing personal winemaking vision with consumer preferences
Get an exclusive look at West Wines' production scale and learn about the number of cases produced at present
 
In this episode with Katarina Bonde
Join Katarina Bonde of West Wines as she shares her journey from Sweden to California's Dry Creek Valley. Explore the inception of West Wines, its all-female winemaker tradition, and Katarina's unique perspective on crafting wines for longevity. 
In today’s episode of the Legends Behind the Craft podcast, Drew Thomas Hendricks and Bianca Harmon are joined by Katarina Bonde, Winemaker and Owner at West Wines. Learn about her European-inspired patience in releasing wines and the delicate balance between her winemaking vision and consumer preferences. From pandemic challenges to tech-wine duality, Katarina offers insights into her world, culminating in a glimpse of West Wines' production prowess.
 
Sponsor for this episode…
This episode is brought to you by Barrels Ahead.
Barrels Ahead is a wine and craft marketing agency that propels organic growth by using a powerful combination of content development, Search Engine Optimization, and paid search.
At Barrels Ahead, we know that your business is unique. That’s why we work with you to create a one-of-a-kind marketing strategy that highlights your authenticity, tells your story, and makes your business stand out from your competitors.
Our team at Barrels Ahead helps you leverage your knowledge so you can enjoy the results and revenue your business deserves.
So, what are you waiting for? Unlock your results today!
To learn more, visit barrelsahead.com or email us at hello@barrelsahead.com to schedule a strategy call.

Mike Metheny is the Owner and Winemaker at Three of Cups Winery. With a background in technology, Mike's journey into the world of wine is as unique as the vintages he crafts. From Boeing Employees Wine and Beer Making Club to Napa trips, his passion for winemaking grew. Balancing tech and a newfound passion, he pursued enology education. With Lisa Swei, his partner and co-founder, Mike's home-brewed wines paved the way for Three of Cups Winery. Their shared passion forged a new path, proving that diverse interests can yield rewarding ventures.
 
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 
Discover the intricate web of wine connections in Woodinville
Learn about Mike's experience in transitioning from a tech background to the wine industry
Uncover the inspiration behind the name "Three of Cups" and the symbolism it holds for the winery
Gain insights into the challenges and strategies of launching a winery, and the transformative journey of scaling production
Explore the advantages of flexibility as a small winery and how it contrasts with the challenges faced when scaling up
Delve into Three of Cups' connection with 11 vineyards and their philosophy of letting the fruit thrive where it's best suited
Take a trip down memory lane as Mike discusses winemaking evolution over a decade, embracing simplicity and the unique character of each vintage
Discover the role of barrels and wood in shaping the flavors of Three of Cups' wines
Learn about the strategies behind growing Three of Cups' wine club and explore the Artisan Hill landscape
Pick up from Mike’s wisdom as he shares advice on maintaining healthy partnerships in the wine industry
Insights into the balance between direct-to-consumer sales and distribution for a small boutique winery
 
In this episode with Mike Metheny
Explore the challenges and triumphs of launching and scaling a winery and gain valuable perspectives on embracing simplicity in winemaking while reflecting the uniqueness of each vintage. 
In today’s episode of the Legends Behind the Craft podcast, Drew Thomas Hendricks is joined by Mike Metheny, Owner, and Winemaker of Three of Cups Winery. Mike takes us through the art of navigating partnerships in business and life and offers advice on staying motivated in the world of wine. Discover how Three of Cups Winery's philosophy of supporting local wineries resonates through Mike's journey, as he shares the joys of connecting with vineyards, growing wine clubs, and crafting wines that tell the story of Woodinville's rich winemaking landscape.
 
Sponsor for this episode…
This episode is brought to you by Barrels Ahead.
Barrels Ahead is a wine and craft marketing agency that propels organic growth by using a powerful combination of content development, Search Engine Optimization, and paid search.
At Barrels Ahead, we know that your business is unique. That’s why we work with you to create a one-of-a-kind marketing strategy that highlights your authenticity, tells your story, and makes your business stand out from your competitors.
Our team at Barrels Ahead helps you leverage your knowledge so you can enjoy the results and revenue your business deserves.
So, what are you waiting for? Unlock your results today!
To learn more, visit barrelsahead.com or email us at hello@barrelsahead.com to schedule a strategy call.

Dr. Henry Barham is a leading ENT Physician specializing in sinus surgery and the Chief Medical & Scientific Officer at Phenomune. As the Chief Science Officer and co-founder of TASTR, Dr. Barham is no stranger to scientific innovation. However, this same expertise also founded VinoTastr, where he discovered the science behind choosing wine that will best suit your palate. Blending scientific acumen with a passion for wine, Dr. Barham navigates the intriguing intersection of sensory exploration and oenology, reshaping how we appreciate wine.
 
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 
Dr. Barham explains the technology behind VinoTastr and the inspiration that led him to create this innovative product
Discover what led Dr. Barham to explore the wine side of the technology and the insights gained from studying people's taste profiles
Find out the personalized wine tasting tests conducted by VinoTastr
The vision for VinoTastr's future and the possibility of partnerships with wineries
Explore how the technology could potentially be adapted for spirits
Insights into VinoTastr's current development stage and progress
Dr. Barham's personal motivations for driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of wine tasting
Dr. Barham’s insights into his entrepreneurial journey and reflections on things he might have done differently
Effective strategies that have contributed to VinoTastr's successful entry into the industry
 
In this episode with Henry Barham
We dive into the fascinating world of personalized wine recommendations with Dr. Henry Barham of VinoTastr. Discover the technology that powers this innovative product and explore the motivations that led Dr. Barham to create a groundbreaking solution for matching wines to individual tastes. 
In today’s episode of the Legends Behind the Craft podcast, Drew Thomas Hendricks and Bianca Harmon are joined by Dr. Henry Barham, Founder of VinoTastr. Here, we’ll explore the journey from wine to spirits and uncover the remarkable insights gathered from blind tastings. Dr. Barham shares the industry feedback that shaped VinoTastr's development and how they're revolutionizing wine and spirit tasting experiences, making them tailored, approachable, and exciting. Tune in to explore the science behind VinoTastr's success, the art of forging industry partnerships, and the driving force that keeps innovation alive.
 
Sponsor for this episode…
This episode is brought to you by Barrels Ahead.
Barrels Ahead is a wine and craft marketing agency that propels organic growth by using a powerful combination of content development, Search Engine Optimization, and paid search.
At Barrels Ahead, we know that your business is unique. That’s why we work with you to create a one-of-a-kind marketing strategy that highlights your authenticity, tells your story, and makes your business stand out from your competitors.
Our team at Barrels Ahead helps you leverage your knowledge so you can enjoy the results and revenue your business deserves.
So, what are you waiting for? Unlock your results today!
To learn more, visit barrelsahead.com or email us at hello@barrelsahead.com to schedule a strategy call.