About this episode
Dave Zalatoris interviews Ska Brewing co-founder Dave Thibodeau about the evolution of craft beer and Ska Brewing's journey over 30 years.
🍺 Beer In Front – Episode 296 Guest: Ska Brewing co-founder Dave Thibodeau 🎙️ Episode Summary Dave Zalatoris is joined by craft beer OG Dave Thibodeau of Ska Brewing for a conversation that hits the sweet spot between beer, music, and staying true to your roots. From the early “punk rock” days of microbrewing to today’s ultra-competitive craft landscape, this episode dives into how Ska Brewing has stayed relevant for over 30 years. Plus: beer news, industry trends, and a review of Ska’s brand new West Coast IPA. 🍻 In This Episode 🎤 Interview: Dave Thibodeau (Ska Brewing) The origins of Ska Brewing and its deep roots in punk, ska, and DIY culture What early craft beer was really like (hint: not always good… and nobody noticed) How today’s drinker has changed—and why you can’t get away with mediocre beer anymore The evolution of IPAs—from no IPA at all to flagship status Brewing innovation: cryo hops, biotransformation, and modern West Coast IPA techniques The wild story of opening (and closing) a location in 71 minutes due to COVID Why “beyond beer” (seltzers, RTDs) still feels off-brand for many legacy brewers Craft beer shakeout: who survives and why Ska’s experimental “Mod…
People in this episode
Host: Dave Zalatoris
Guest: Dave Thibodeau
Topics covered
- craft beer
- music
- punk rock
- microbrewing
- IPAs
- brewing innovation
- community
Keywords
- Ska Brewing
- West Coast IPA
- craft beer trends
- DIY culture
- community identity
Mentioned in this episode
Products: West Coast IPA, Pink Vapor Stew, Durango, Ska Brewing – New West Coast IPA
Books & works: Beer In Front – Episode 296
Places: West Coast
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