Join us for a thought-provoking session as we confront the crucial topics of sobriety in the brewing industry and promoting responsible alcohol consumption. We explore how a mindful and humanistic approach can shape a brewery culture that prioritizes wellness and supports both staff and customers. Hear directly from three industry professionals who have faced this struggle personally and used it as leverage to propel themselves forward, further than they ever dreamed, to impact the industry in a positive way through their own experiences.
In this seminar, we address the challenges faced by individuals in the brewing industry, where alcohol use disorder (AUD) can silently creep into lives, overshadowing the passion and joy of the craft. Gain a deep understanding of the factors that contribute to this issue and learn effective strategies to engage in open and honest conversations about sobriety with your staff. Discover the power of promoting responsible alcohol consumption within your brewery and beyond. We will explore practical approaches and initiatives that can be implemented to cultivate healthy drinking habits among your staff and educate customers on making informed choices. From alcohol education programs to creating a welcoming environment that extends beyond alcohol-centric experiences, we provide actionable insights for fostering a culture of balance and wellbeing.
Together, let’s embrace a beer culture that thrives on wellbeing, support, and the celebration of great brews in a balanced and sustainable way.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the impact of overdrinking on the brewing industry and the importance of addressing sobriety as a vital aspect of brewery culture
- Learn effective communication techniques to initiate open and supportive conversations about sobriety with staff members, fostering a culture of understanding and empathy
- Explore practical strategies and initiatives to promote responsible alcohol consumption within your brewery, encompassing educational programs, alternative beverage options, and inclusive experiences
- Gain insight into creating a supportive and inclusive working environment that respects individuals who choose not to drink, fostering a sense of belonging for all staff members
- Discover how to extend the focus on physical and mental wellness beyond the brewery walls, engaging with customers and the community to promote responsible drinking and healthy lifestyle choices
About the Speakers
Meagen Anderson, Founder & CEO
AFicioNAdo Certification Program
Meagen Anderson is a seasoned professional with 20 years of experience in leadership, business development, commercial strategy, and training. Her career journey has taken her through esteemed companies like Philip Morris USA, The Boston Beer Company, Kalsec, and NZ Hops Ltd, where she has honed her expertise in building teams, creating immersive sensory experiences, and forging meaningful connections and collaborations through the power of beverages.
Inspired by the possibilities of the alcohol-free (AF)and non-alcohol (NA) beverage segment, Meagen embarked on a personal milestone, celebrating 1,400 days of an alcohol-free lifestyle in 2023. Fueled by this journey, she founded the AFicioNAdo™ Certification Program—the world's first professional training and certification program for alcohol-free and non-alcohol beverages, encompassing verticals in AF and NA beer, wine, spirits, and cannabis beverages.
In 2022, Meagen founded Transcending Trauma, which offers access to powerful meditation training and consciousness programs, providing support to those that work in the craft brewing industry.
Benjamin Eberly, Vice President
Cavalier Distributing Company
Ben Eberly is the vice president of Cavalier Distributing Company in, one of the nation's largest independent craft beer wholesalers, headquartered in Blue Ash, Ohio. Ben has worked in beer distribution for over 14 years as a sales leader, team builder, problem solver, and collaborator. In 2018, Ben became a non-drinker, focusing his newfound time and energy on health, wellness, and personal development. He is currently pursuing a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a Juris Doctor degree from Capital University Law School.
Leigh Gall, Partner
Hop Forward Consulting
Leigh Gall (she/her) is an energetic sales executive with 20 years’ experience. She got her start in the beer business as an account manager at the Boston Beer Company in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Shortly after, Leigh moved into off-premise national accounts for all classes of trade in Texas and Louisiana. After leaving Boston Beer, Leigh went on to a role as community marketing manager for RaceTrac Petroleum, leading engaging marketing programs, community partnerships, and lots of fun times. Most recently she held the title of vice president of sales at TUPPS Brewery, overseeing multiple states, a sales team, and national accounts, while working alongside production and marketing.
Currently, Leigh is a partner at Hop Forward Consulting, where she is fully immersed in the cannabis market. Leigh lends her sales experience to Happi THC seltzer as vice president of sales, working with distributors and retailers nationwide. Additionally, consulting in sales and customer service at CannaSpyglass data resources has given Leigh a robust understanding of the cannabis market. Leigh has a passion for growing education and awareness for this quickly growing category. By helping to normalize and destigmatize cannabis for consumers and businesses, she hopes that both can mutually benefit from what cannabis has to offer.
Mark LaFaro, Journalist
Good Beer Hunting
Mark LaFaro (he/him) is a writer, photographer, and artist based in the Hudson Valley of New York. He's a Certified Cicerone, five-time High Times Cannabis Cup judge, and 13-year veteran of the craft beer industry. When he's not writing or making art, he spends most of his free time reading, listening to music, hiking, and posting on X, formerly known as Twitter.
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