A Toast to Innovation in the Non-Alcoholic Beer Industry with Sam Ray (We Can Be Friends)
Explicit content warning
04/29/24 • 41 min
Discover the unexpected joys of alcohol-free beer as I, Ben, sit down with Sam Ray, the mastermind behind New Kids on the Block, We Can Be Friends, and uncover the vibrant world of non-alcoholic brews. Sam's dedication and inventive approach have led to creations that rival their alcoholic counterparts in complexity and taste, challenging the very notion of what a non-alcoholic beer can be. From discussing the economic implications of crafting these beverages to the cultural shifts in perception, this episode promises to enlighten both the beer connoisseur and the curious listener.
Sam and I navigate the intricacies of the alcohol-free beer landscape, addressing the vital role these drinks play for those who avoid alcohol for health or personal reasons. We delve into the legislative and societal hurdles these beverages face and the innovative strides being made to offer a wider selection in pubs and supermarkets. Our chat reveals the industry's passionate response to an evolving demand, emphasizing the variety and accessibility that are reshaping the sober community's options.
Wrapping up our discussion, the spotlight turns to the camaraderie and mutual respect within the craft beer industry. We highlight how competition breeds creativity and the way brands like Attic Brew Co tip their hats to their peers. The conversation takes a turn to the personal as we share our love for the craft, the humor found in an alcohol-lover discussing non-alcoholic options, and the collective anticipation for what's brewing on the horizon. So, whether you're toasting to the future or simply savoring the conversation, join us for a refreshing look at alcohol-free beer that's rich with passion and ripe with innovation. Cheers to that!
To find out more about We Can Be Friends head on over to their website. Since recording this episode they have already released a new beer alongside a collaboration brew with Track, I won't tell you it was because of our conversation in this episode, but I also won't say otherwise. You can find We Can Be Friends at: https://wecanbefriends.co.uk/
To find out more about the wonderful world of alcohol free beer and to check in with me head to www.instagram.com/sober_boozers_club
This episode is not brought to you by any sponsors because nobody wants to sponsor me.
Discover the unexpected joys of alcohol-free beer as I, Ben, sit down with Sam Ray, the mastermind behind New Kids on the Block, We Can Be Friends, and uncover the vibrant world of non-alcoholic brews. Sam's dedication and inventive approach have led to creations that rival their alcoholic counterparts in complexity and taste, challenging the very notion of what a non-alcoholic beer can be. From discussing the economic implications of crafting these beverages to the cultural shifts in perception, this episode promises to enlighten both the beer connoisseur and the curious listener.
Sam and I navigate the intricacies of the alcohol-free beer landscape, addressing the vital role these drinks play for those who avoid alcohol for health or personal reasons. We delve into the legislative and societal hurdles these beverages face and the innovative strides being made to offer a wider selection in pubs and supermarkets. Our chat reveals the industry's passionate response to an evolving demand, emphasizing the variety and accessibility that are reshaping the sober community's options.
Wrapping up our discussion, the spotlight turns to the camaraderie and mutual respect within the craft beer industry. We highlight how competition breeds creativity and the way brands like Attic Brew Co tip their hats to their peers. The conversation takes a turn to the personal as we share our love for the craft, the humor found in an alcohol-lover discussing non-alcoholic options, and the collective anticipation for what's brewing on the horizon. So, whether you're toasting to the future or simply savoring the conversation, join us for a refreshing look at alcohol-free beer that's rich with passion and ripe with innovation. Cheers to that!
To find out more about We Can Be Friends head on over to their website. Since recording this episode they have already released a new beer alongside a collaboration brew with Track, I won't tell you it was because of our conversation in this episode, but I also won't say otherwise. You can find We Can Be Friends at: https://wecanbefriends.co.uk/
To find out more about the wonderful world of alcohol free beer and to check in with me head to www.instagram.com/sober_boozers_club
This episode is not brought to you by any sponsors because nobody wants to sponsor me.
Previous Episode
A Journey Through the Alcohol-Free Beer Universe with Guest Expert Martin Dixon
Navigating the lively world of non-alcoholic brews, I'm Ben, your companion and chief enthusiast at the Sober Boozers Club podcast. This episode is a toast to the curious and the committed, as we're joined by the inspiring Martin Dixon of Alcohol-Free World. We swap stories about our discovery of alcohol-free beer, with Martin sharing how a Dry January blossomed into an unanticipated but welcome lifestyle. Whether you're sober-curious or have been on this journey for miles, our candid chat promises to resonate, celebrating the alcohol-free beer industry's role in fostering inclusion and community.
Raise your glasses—filled with the finest alcohol-free beer, of course—as we recount the hurdles and triumphs in our transition from skepticism to celebration of these non-intoxicating libations. From Martin's own Vegas stag week triumph to importing German alcohol-free beers with the finesse of a ceremonial dance, we explore the rich tapestry of tastes and traditions that these beverages weave into our lives. Our conversation is a journey through personal anecdotes and a shared appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every frothy, flavorful sip.
Pulling back the curtain on the alcohol-free beer industry, this episode traverses the globe from the digital marketing strategies behind a Stockholm bar to the nuanced regional variations of Carlsberg beer. As we spotlight the unsung heroes and innovators of the craft, you'll discover how an industry once overshadowed by its alcoholic counterpart is now bubbling with creativity and passion. Join us for this effervescent exploration that's both a tribute to the alcohol-free beer cosmos and an invitation to revel in the craft without the draft.
Martin is leading the charge in Alcohol Free beer reviews, his passion and knowledge on the subject is second to none and he has (as of recording) sampled and reviewed over 1400 beers. To follow Martin's journey head over to https://www.instagram.com/alcohol_free_world/
To find out more about the wonderful world of alcohol free beer and to check in with me head to www.instagram.com/sober_boozers_club
This episode is not brought to you by any sponsors because nobody wants to sponsor me.
Next Episode
Embracing Sobriety's Tapestry with Shell Regini: Laughs, Reflections And A Campaign For Sober Toilets
When Shell Regini, the heart and soul behind the 'We Recover Loudly' podcast, pulls up a chair, you know you're in for an unfiltered trek down the road to sobriety. Together, we unravel the tapestry of challenges and laughter that stitches together our sober lives, musing over everything from the physical comedy of a broken toe to the stark revelations that come with mental and physical health awareness. Our candid banter traverses the unexpected, often humorous, side of life post-addiction—like agonizing over coffee choices and embracing tranquility amid the erstwhile chaos.
Have you ever wondered what it really means to recover loudly? It’s not just the absence of alcohol, but the growth that fills the void—becoming a human who can withstand life's discomforts without a crutch. Shell and I reflect on the sweet irony of our journey, from rubbing elbows with the rock-and-roll elite to relishing the simple, sober moments that now define our lives. We share our stories of connection and the gratitude that blossoms in recovery's soil, fostering camaraderie that transcends shared suffering into shared strength.
We wrap up this heart-to-heart with a nod to the people who walk the road of sobriety with us, where we invite you to become part of a community that understands the unique struggles and triumphs of sobriety. Shell's experiences in hospitality and her own milestones—like nearing a thousand days sober—underscore the profound impact of our choices. So, if you're ready for an episode that offers equal parts laughter and enlightenment, join us as we celebrate the authenticity and resilience that comes from living loud and sober.
Shell is a hospitality veteran with 18 years FOH experience, focusing primarily on operations, training, and business development. She has worked for some of London's best restaurant groups including Hawksmoor, Gaucho and Polpo. Having suffered a life changing burnout late 2020, she has changed her focus to improving the mental health working conditions of people in the industry by forcing difficult conversations out into the open, specifically concerning the hidden epidemic of addiction. Her podcast We Recover Loudly offers a platform for people with experience of drug and alcohol addiction, in the industry to discuss what we can do to change the systemic culture of excessive substance use we have. Shell is a chief ambassador with The Burnt Chef Project, and Low No Drinker magazine’s resident agony aunt. To get in touch with Shell, email her at [email protected], follow her on Instagram @werecoverloudly and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-righin
To find out more about the wonderful world of alcohol free beer and to check in with me head to www.instagram.com/sober_boozers_club
This episode is not brought to you by any sponsors because nobody wants to sponsor me.
Sober Boozers Club - A Toast to Innovation in the Non-Alcoholic Beer Industry with Sam Ray (We Can Be Friends)
Transcript
Welcome to the Sober Boozers Club podcast , a place where we can talk openly and honestly about addiction , sobriety and , strangely enough , beer .
Speaker 1I'm Ben , I'm an alcoholic and for the last two years , I've been sampling some of the finest alcohol-free beers the world has to offer . Each week , I'll be joined by a different guest to
If you like this episode you’ll love
Episode Comments
Generate a badge
Get a badge for your website that links back to this episode
<a href="https://goodpods.com/podcasts/sober-boozers-club-516758/a-toast-to-innovation-in-the-non-alcoholic-beer-industry-with-sam-ray-67485213"> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/goodpods-images-bucket/badges/generic-badge-1.svg" alt="listen to a toast to innovation in the non-alcoholic beer industry with sam ray (we can be friends) on goodpods" style="width: 225px" /> </a>
Copy