When I started this podcast in late 2017 my vision was much greater than just an Arizona local craft beverage podcast. From the beginning my goal was to continue add new elements (writing, photography, video, events, etc) to allow it to morph into something even better. In July of 2017 I was introduced to Erik Merkow, founder of AZ Food and Wine. With Eriks experience and our common ground on key personal and professional values I knew that we would become a force to be reckoned with.
Fast forward to April 19th 2018 and there we stood in the beer garden of Helton Brewing Company 90 minutes before our first event as AZ Food and Beer (AZFAB for the cool kids). Nervous to see if anyone would actually show up. But they did. And it was a great time. Beer provided by Helton Brewing, Helio Basin Brewing and Goldwater Brewing. Food provided by Noble Bread and Helton compliments of chef Judd Cummings. Live music from the amazingly talented Kim Capria. A stunning live painting of Muhammed Ali by Katia Von Kral. And most importantly a group of amazing friends to share in this special occasion many of whom joined in for a moment or two in this episode.
My man Chris Dodson took over hosting duties for this episode and crushed it as usual. Enjoy the show!