Episode Details

🍺 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 Project” beers—including the unforgettable Pink Vapor Stew
• The importance of community and Durango’s role in Ska’s identity

🍺 Beer Review Ska Brewing – New West Coast IPA

• Aroma: Mango, guava, bright tropical notes
• Appearance: Clear, classic West Coast look with solid foam
• Flavor: Balanced hop profile with noticeable bitterness (in a good way)
• Takeaway: A modern West Coast IPA that respects tradition while using new-school techniques

Verdict:
👉 “Put it in the cart.”



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