Barley & Me

Host Ben Rice travels to Sacramento, CA, to his favorite midtown bar, The Golden Bear, to recap 2023 over a bucket of Miller High Life (among other things) with friends and comedians Stephen Furey (@scubastevefurey), Emma Haney (@ehaneycomedy), and Alfonso Portela (@fonsitocaballito). We'll discuss the ups and downs of 2023, what we're looking forward to in 2024, and what is going on with Alfonso's head. Plus! Psoriasis, being 86'd, the closing of a hallowed comedy venue, the TikTokification of stand-up, and the worst pipelines in Sacramento. We're looking at a pretty solid 2024, y'all, so get on board. All this and so, so much more, on episode 179 of Barley & Me. Enjoy!
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod.
Don't forget to look for past episodes, upcoming comedy shows, and so much more at barleyandmepod.com
Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Host Ben Rice travels to Sacramento, CA, to pay yet another visit to New Helvetia Brewing. This time, he sits down with current owner Dave Gull to discuss New Helvetia's newly-announced move to a public co-operative model and their recent 11th anniversary (and Ben's secret lineup pop-up show at said anniversary party). While we do get into specifics about what the co-op model means for him, the company, its employees, the city of Sacramento, and potential members, first, we take our sweet-ass time getting there by wishing Dave a happy 50th birthday (because he was kind enough to sit down with me on his birthday), discussing a variety of topics, such as reincarnation, Carl Sagan's Cosmos, Ben's past career in music journalism, Sacramento's odd behavior toward the arts and passion projects, Sacramento history lost to time, capitalism's war on positive change, and that old bugaboo Nationalized Healthcare. Plus! Again, so much detail about what this co-operative is, how it will work, what you can expect and how you can plan for the unexpected if you wish to join the membership, its efforts at equity, hyper-focusing on improving Sacramento while getting it drunk at the same time, and its $300 lifetime membership!
Find out more about this co-op effort and how to get involved (and answers to questions we maybe didn't answer on the episode) or just to see what they've got on tap and available to devour (I WANT TO BE VERY CLEAR HERE: AFTER THIS EPISODE WAS RECORDED, I HAD THE BIRRIA BURGER FROM CHEF NATE SOTO AND IT IS THE BEST BURGER I HAVE EVER HAD AND IS IN THE TOP 10 THINGS I HAVE EATEN OF ANY KIND - TRULY, IF YOU SEE THIS ON SPECIAL, ORDER IT. ORDER IT FOR FRIENDS. BRING SOME HOME FOR LATER. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED. BIRRIA BURGER. GET IT. GOOD GOODNESS.)
You can also learn more about host Ben Rice's other goings on and the podcast and what beers he's drinking by following him on social media @barleyandmepod or checking out the fairly-current new website, barleyandmepod.com
Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-regularly on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for various local and national charities with goals of making our world a better place. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
It's now been over a year since Brienne Allen's revelations about the beer industry's treatment of women and minorities. If you have stories about change (or lack thereof), please submit them (anonymously if you wish) and your story may be featured on a future episode. Simply go to https://forms.gle/2QNebCn7NHHjsEbg6
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Welcome to a brand-new episode of Barley & Me Presents: Leonard Malting, host Ben Rice's beer-centric movie podcast with co-hosts Paulina Olivares & Corky McDonnell.
On this episode, we discuss the new beer documentary One Pint at a Time, with director Aaron Hose and producer Brigitte Hose.
Unfortunately, Corky could not attend the recording due to a family event and Ben had to miss the documentary screening for similar reasons, so Paulina handles this one almost entirely on her own. And does an EXCELLENT job.
One Pint at a Time is a beer documentary focusing on Black beer history, from the invention of beer, early brewing, up to the modern day, where many still see it as odd if a Black person likes, let alone makes, beer. Through discussions with Black brewers and brewery owners, and trips to breweries throughout the world, regardless of ownership, the Hoses try to provide proof to everyone that if you have a dream or a passion, it is worth pursuing.
"We" also discuss energy vampires, correcting ignorance, the documentary festival circuit, the founding of the NB2A (National Black Brewers Association), 25+ years of documentary filmmaking, the first-ever Black beer festival FreshFest, and so much more.
If you have a beer-centric or heavily-beer-involved movie recommendation, let us know and maybe we’ll do this again!
Learn more about One Pint at a Time's scheduling on IG @onepintfilm or at www.onepintfilm.com
Find out more about PBS Sacramento at @pinkbootssacramento on Instagram
Check out Corky’s bad movie podcast on social media @daredanielpod, or listen wherever you get your podcasts.
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod. Be sure to follow us for more info on future Barley & Me Presents! Editions, as we try to tackle music, movies, sports, and more!
Email questions/comments/concerns/Dream Teams to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music (not featured in this episode): “JamRoc” by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)
Thanks so much for listening.

Host Ben Rice travels to Elk Grove, CA, to discuss Sacramento Beer Enthusiasts co-found Steve Hayer's fundraising campaign F Cancer, with Flatland Brewing owner Andrew Mohsenzadegan. Over pints of delicious Flatland beers, we discuss the reason Hayer started this campaign, how you can support it now and in the future, and the 4 F*** Cancer beer collaborations coming to the Sacramento area in October. This campaign goes to support local cancer-fighting charity Albie Aware. You can support by grabbing a collaboration pint at Urban Roots on October 7, at Flatland on October 14, at Claimstake on October 21, and/or at Crooked Lane October 28. Steve will be selling special nucleated glassware at each location as well. We also catch up with Andrew, discussing his COVID-forced expansion, his leading man good looks and charm, and his constant pursuit of perfection. Oh yeah, and did you know if you buy a pint of each beer and a F*** Cancer glass at each location, you will be entered to win a brew day AT Flatland WITH Andrew? Wowowow! What an absolute dream. So sit back and enjoy as we brainstorm ways to fund cancer research and treatment while Ben overexplains pretty much everything, on episode 177 of Barley & Me. FUCK CANCER, now and forever. Enjoy!
Funds from Steve's F*** Cancer event go to Albie Aware - go to albieaware.org to donate or for more information
Check out Steve's beer group, Sacramento Beer Enthusiasts, on Facebook
Find out all about Flatland beers and their new(ish) food program @flatlandbrewing
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod. Check out past episodes, show dates, and more, at the newly-revamped barleyandmepod.com
Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-regularly on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for various local and national charities with goals of making our world a better place. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
It's now been over a year since Brienne Allen's revelations about the beer industry's treatment of women and minorities. If you have stories about change (or lack thereof), please submit them (anonymously if you wish) and your story may be featured on a future episode. Simply go to https://forms.gle/2QNebCn7NHHjsEbg6
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Host Ben Rice travels to Santa Cruz, CA, to talk to Woodhouse Blending & Brewing's do-it-all guy Tim Carpenter and Santa Cruz-based comedian Mac Ruiz. We'll tackle Woodhouse's support of Santa Cruz's local arts community, tap line cleanliness, and second-hand pop culture when we're not busy figuring out what our ages are again, where we were on 9/11 (this episode was recorded on 9/11), and discovering just how severe our tinnitus is. Plus! Mac gets accused of killing the Santa Cruz comedy scene, we come up with a million-dollar beer idea, we figure out why Mac's stomach hates beer right now, Tim delves into the blending of Woodhouse Blending & Brewing, and we try to figure out how to help crying children when there are no parents in sight. Yes, this is a beer podcast. This is episode 176 of Barley & Me. You're gonna love it.
Learn what's going on RIGHT NOW at Woodhouse Blending & Brewing by following them on IG @woodhousebrews
Get more intel on the Santa Cruz scene and Mac's career path @itsmacruiz
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod. Check out our fancy new website barleyandmepod.com
Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-regularly on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for various local and national charities with goals of making our world a better place. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
It's now been over a year since Brienne Allen's revelations about the beer industry's treatment of women and minorities. If you have stories about change (or lack thereof), please submit them (anonymously if you wish) and your story may be featured on a future episode. Simply go to https://forms.gle/2QNebCn7NHHjsEbg6
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Host Ben Rice travels to Davis, CA, to celebrate Dunloe Brewing's 6th anniversary weekend with owner/brewer Brennan Fleming, plus comedian Jozalyn Sharp, hot off the release of her debut album Five Ten Two Eighty. Over some pints of absolutely incredible sours, we go deep on the rewards of brewing with farm-fresh fruit, the inherent issues with weed brownies, and reasoning with zombies. Plus! We maybe start our own commune, sort out this pesky "cancel culture" business, and come to grips with all the trails and tribulations of aging. If that seems like a lot and maybe makes you a little uncomfortable, well, you can untangle your pubes and leave. All this and more, on episode 174 of Barley & Me. Enjoy!
You can find Jozalyn Sharp across social media @jozalynsharp or at jozalynsharp.com
Be sure to visit Dunloe Brewing and The Local whenever you get a chance and learn what they have going on on IG @dunloebrewing
And be sure to learn more about the Black Is Beautiful Initiative, as featured in Episode 129 with Marcus Baskerville of Weathered Souls Brewing, at www.blackisbeautiful.beer
Get your merch or make donations at www.customink.com/fundraising/black-is-beautiful-initiative
Also, during this crisis, 100% of profits from sales of Barley & Me shirts via Zen-Threads.com will go to Another Round, Another Rally, a charity that supports front- and back-of-house members of the service industry whose wages and benefits may be affected. So grab a shirt and help a good cause and people you love! https://zen-threads.com/collections/beer-wine/products/barley-and-me-podcast-mens-crew-tee?fbclid=IwAR1G_5HJ3NCoWTRgmG6Q2PVALEiJsb1KtHClCaDli0NhsjZsc4KPmWCp_os
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos intermittently on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for those affected by the shutdown or just life in general. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
Do you have a story about racism, sexism, homophobia, or transphobia in the beer industry? You can submit your story anonymously, to be read on a future episode of Barley & Me at https://forms.gle/SmDuBT3zGKxNCVZ757
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Barley & Me host Ben Rice travels to Sacramento's New Helvetia Brewing to tag team owner Dave Gull with the fine fellows, the bombastic barbers, the jazzed-up joys Jason Dunn and Justin Williams of the A Little Off The Top Podcast.
We'll crisscross topics like city planning, podcasting for profit, New Helvetia's new kitchen, and the best biscuits and gravy while also telling intense stories about best friends, power hours, and a dash of state-sanctioned insurance fraud. Plus! The ALOTTP interesting convenience store find of the week, vasectomies (and other dude stuff), and old Old Sacramento history. All this and more, on the latest episode of Barley & Me (and A Little Off the Top!). Enjoy!
Seriously, check out A Little Off the Top wherever you get your podcasts. Give em a follow @alittleoffthetoppod
New Helvetia's 11th anniversary is coming up, so keep an eye on their socials @newhelvetiabrew
You can find out what Ben is up to in the podcast and comedy game by checking out the newly-revamped barleyandmepod.com
Barley & Me is now Barley & Me Pod-uctions due to the sheer volume of comedy shows Ben currently runs. If you're in the greater Sacramento region, we have something for you. I hate promotion.
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod. Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-regularly on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for various local and national charities with goals of making our world a better place. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it. It's now been over a year since Brienne Allen's revelations about the beer industry's treatment of women and minorities. If you have stories about change (or lack thereof), please submit them (anonymously if you wish) and your story may be featured on a future episode. Simply go to https://forms.gle/2QNebCn7NHHjsEbg6
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Host Ben Rice travels to Sacramento, CA, to sit down with the Sacramento Area Brewer's Guild's executive administrator Mai-Sam Baumann, to discuss Sacramento Beer Week 2023, kicking off April 22 and ending April 30. We discuss the transition to local focus, how the pandemic affected the craft industry, and adapting to changes in the general craft beer culture. Plus! Logistics! Communication pitfalls! The Rising Together collaboration effort! Instant feedback! And so much more. On episode 172 of Barley & Me. Enjoy!
Learn more about Sacramento Beer Week 2023 @sacramentobeerweek on IG or at sacramentobeerweek.com
Check out the inner workings of the SABG at sacramentoareabrewersguild.org
And definitely give SacYard Community Taphouse a follow @sacyard.beer
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod. Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Don't forget to check out the all-new barleyandmepod.com for information on this podcast, Ben's comedy, and other projects.
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-regularly on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for various local and national charities with goals of making our world a better place. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
It's now been over a year since Brienne Allen's revelations about the beer industry's treatment of women and minorities. If you have stories about change (or lack thereof), please submit them (anonymously if you wish) and your story may be featured on a future episode. Simply go to https://forms.gle/2QNebCn7NHHjsEbg6
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Host Ben Rice travels to Sacramento, CA to talk to Touchstone Brewing owner/brewery & Sacramento Area Brewers Guild president Ryan Campagna and WEAVE Inc. community educator Jess Lemos about WEAVE's Safe Night Out campaign, Touchstone's mission statement and growth plan, and fashion. Make it make sense? We'll try!
Ryan got his start with San Jose's Strike Brewing and has carried their passion for low ABV beers to his latest endeavor, in part due to his ties to the exercise/climbing community, and teamed up with WEAVE to provide education to the greater Sacramento brewing community about what to look for when it comes to signifiers of potential sexual assault and abuse.
Jess joins us to discuss her work with WEAVE, to dispel some myths about assault, and to find the points of joy in the work she does and the moments we share as individuals.
So, get ready for a robust conversation of some serious topics and some shocking 80s music trivia, plus hot takes on frozen beer glasses, slushee beers, and Vanilla Ice (it was cold when we recorded, so we apparently had a focus), and so, so much more, on episode 171 of Barley & Me. Enjoy!
Follow Touchstone Brewing @touchstonebrewingcompany on IG
Learn more about WEAVE's mission and Safe Night Out at weaveinc.org
Check out Barley & Me's new site barleyandmepod.com for past episodes, comedy shows, other related podcasts and so much more, or just follow us across social media @barleyandmepod for our latest and greatest.
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-daily on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for those affected by this shutdown. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
Do you have a story about racism, sexism, homophobia, or transphobia in the beer industry? You can submit your story anonymously, to be read on a future episode of Barley & Me at https://forms.gle/SmDuBT3zGKxNCVZ757
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Host Ben Rice travels to Sacramento, CA, to visit KC Kombucha in Oak Park to talk with owner Courtney Edwards and filmmaker/director Preston Allen about kombucha's place in the fermentation world, as well as Preston's upcoming documentary Unhoused Neighbors. We explore kombucha as az preferred nightcap beverage, how to de-funk the typically odorous beverage, and the US's combative relationship with the unhoused and why a documentary like Unhoused Neighbors could help with that. Plus! Experimentation in the kombucha world (what does Cherry Chai Kombucha even taste like?), the many health aspects of the drink in question, some of the outreach programs available via Loaves & Fishes, and Ben's tech metal/societal ideology crossover theory for DEI. All this and more, on episode 170 of Barley & Me. Enjoy!
Preston is set to film for an entire year, following different individuals through each season of the year. You can find out more at unhousedneighbors.com. Follow their journey on IG @unhousedneighbors_
Find out what offerings, in house and to go, KC Kombucha has by visiting kc-kombucha.com or on IG @kckombucha
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod. Check out the website, which includes the rest of his podcast production, comedy, and comedy show production, at barleyandmepod.com
Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-regularly on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for various local and national charities with goals of making our world a better place. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
It's now been almost two years since Brienne Allen's revelations about the beer industry's treatment of women and minorities. If you have stories about change (or lack thereof), please submit them (anonymously if you wish) and your story may be featured on a future episode. Simply go to https://forms.gle/2QNebCn7NHHjsEbg6
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Host Ben Rice travels to Sacramento to discuss the world of NA craft beverages (not just beer!) with the owners of the hottest new Alcohol-Free bar in town, Amanda Brincat and Kathryn Altman of The Teetotalist! Joining the conversation is artist, performer, activist, and all around badass Grace Loescher. Over cans of Best Days beverages, we discuss the current movement to a less alcohol-centric social life, creating space for everyone, and showing up as yourself in difficult situations. Plus! Cold press filtration! The healing arts and the art of healing! Accidental research! And so much more, including what a teetotalist even is, how you can help the less-privileged gain access to creative spaces, and my first adaptogenic beverage experience. All this and more, on episode 169 of Barley & Me. Enjoy!
Find out more about The Teetotalist (830 K St, Sacramento, CA until the end of March 2023, when they may locate a more permanent space) on IG @theteetotalistsac
Check out Grace Loescher's work with The Creation Distric (and make donations!) at www.thecreationdistrict.com
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod.
Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-regularly on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for various local and national charities with goals of making our world a better place. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
It's now been over a year since Brienne Allen's revelations about the beer industry's treatment of women and minorities. If you have stories about change (or lack thereof), please submit them (anonymously if you wish) and your story may be featured on a future episode. Simply go to https://forms.gle/2QNebCn7NHHjsEbg6
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Host Ben Rice invites his favorite comedy friends (and lover oh my) Stephen Furey (@scubastevefurey), Emma Haney (@ehaneycomedy), and Becky Lynn (@ohthatsbecky) into his (their) home for his/their yearly winter recap. This year, we're tackling saisons for our year-end Saison's Greetings episode! We go from THE definitive saison, to clones of that saison, to slight variations to wild experimentations, while recapping our years, bickering like old friends, praising the Sacramento comedy scene as being unlike any other in the world (and why that seemingly self-important stance is provably true), and getting, well, let's face it, progressively drunker, as this episode carries on. All told, we drink, discuss, and review ten, count em, 10, different saisons from around the world (but mostly the California area, with a HEAVY emphasis on Peter Hoey/Urban Roots Brewery & Smokehouse creations). Barbers! Brussel sprouts! Ballpark Hot Dogs! Ben's Condiment Bindle! Biscuits and Gravy! Bleu Cheese! Ben's Infamous Blackout! Being banned from comedy clubs (and Bars!)!(unrelated to previously-mentioned blackouts) Bullying! Beer! Beer donations! Things that don't start with B! (In case things like ASMR, alarm clock harmonies, apricots, ah crap that's all A's, ok, take 2 - in case things like parking tickets, favorite cereals, secondary fermentations, the fickle fortune of fame, disrespectful comics and booking requests (ah crap, booking starts with B), and global domination tickle your fancy)
Look, there's a lot to unpack here and maybe we resolve some stuff and maybe we don't. Do some of us have multiple 3rd favorite saisons? Probably. Do we appreciate the art and science of it all? Mostly. Do we do this for us? No! We do it for you. So give it a spin and enjoy episode 168 of Barley & Me.
Spoiler Alert: The Beer Dies at the End
Follow Barley & Me across social media @barleyandmepod and be on the lookout for the pending revamping of barleyandmepod.com
You can find Emma Haney on IG @ehaneycomedy or on Twitter @emmaiscool69
Follow Becky Lynn across social media (and Venmo) @ohthatsbecky
Check out Stephen Furey on IG @scubastevefurey
And be sure to learn more about the Black Is Beautiful Initiative, as featured in Episode 129 with Marcus Baskerville of Weathered Souls Brewing, at www.blackisbeautiful.beer
Get your merch or make donations at www.customink.com/fundraising/black-is-beautiful-initiative Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos infrequently on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for those affected by this shutdown. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
Do you have a story about racism, sexism, homophobia, or transphobia in the beer industry? You can submit your story anonymously, to be read on a future episode of Barley & Me at https://forms.gle/SmDuBT3zGKxNCVZ757
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Host Ben Rice travels to Rocklin, CA to talk with the mind(scapes) behind Mindscape Fermentations, Lauren Houston (data director), Lauren Price (microbe manager), and Charlotte Crott (enzyme executive) in the long-awaited(?) episode 167. Not solely a microbrewery, Mindscape instead, as the name implies, focuses on fermentation in all its wonder, as they tackle cider, wine, seltzer, hard kombucha, regular kombucha, probiotic sodas, hot sauces, charcuterie, salsas, and more. With a focus on locally-sourced, environmental-friendly ingredients and materials, these wunderkinds pack a punch in a tiny package, having carved out a small corner space at the Rocklin Crossings shopping center.
In this episode, we discuss long sleepless nights, parental pressure to make this a sports bar, and which is the best human meat (part two!). Plus! A LIVE salsa tasting, Lauren confusion, and making your hometown proud.
All this and more, on episode 167 of Barley & Me. Enjoy!
Get more information on Mindscape Fermentations, their beverage options, and their community-focused events at www.mindscape-fermentations.com or by following them across social media @mindscapefermentations
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod. Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-regularly on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for various local and national charities with goals of making our world a better place. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
It's now been over a year since Brienne Allen's revelations about the beer industry's treatment of women and minorities. If you have stories about change (or lack thereof), please submit them (anonymously if you wish) and your story may be featured on a future episode. Simply go to https://forms.gle/2QNebCn7NHHjsEbg6
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Host Ben Rice travels to Sunnyvale, CA, to sit down with Japanese-Brazilian Japas Cervejaria's co-founders Maira Kimura (brewer), Yumi Shimada (creative director), and Fernanda Ueno (brewer), plus Beerternational co-founder and CEO Pooah Alon, after a day of complete madness as a part of the Japas & Friends Celebration, which celebrated their collaboration with Tetra Hotel in Sunnyvale.
We talked about their current attempts to infiltrate the U.S. market with Beerternational's help (10 states and counting), the insanity of their promotional trip to introduce their product, and their focus on blending their Brazilian and Japanese roots when crafting their beers.
Plus! Intertwining their past and present to build their future, Brazil's prohibitive craft beer pricing (the answer shouldn't surprise you), an exciting use of cacao, and their very special Maru series of beers, which honor the 110th anniversary of Japanese integration to Brazil (I won't spoil the full story they uncovered)! All this and more, on episode 166 of Barley & Me.
Find out more about Japas Cervejaria (including where to find their beers) at japascervejaria.com or on IG @japascervejaria
Learn more about Beerternational, their brands, and their methods, at beerternational.com!
Visit tetrahotelsv.com for reservations and more info on what Tetra Hotel is bringing to your travel/accomodations.
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod. Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-regularly on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for various local and national charities with goals of making our world a better place. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
It's now been over a year since Brienne Allen's revelations about the beer industry's treatment of women and minorities. If you have stories about change (or lack thereof), please submit them (anonymously if you wish) and your story may be featured on a future episode. Simply go to https://forms.gle/2QNebCn7NHHjsEbg6
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

In this episode of Barley & Me Presents: Leonard Malting, host Ben Rice and half he crew (Paulina Olivares of Drake's Brewing and president of the Sacramento Pink Boots Society and NOT Corky McDonnell of the Dare Daniel Podcast) discuss and review the new beer documentary, Girl Beer, with surprise guest, directorMarena Domingo. This episode was recorded at Drake's The Barn in Sacramento immediately after a showing of the film and a women in beer roundtable (which was also recorded, with permission, for this episode!)
We discuss Paulina's years-long efforts to help Marena make this documentary a reality and get it viewed in Sacramento (even longer than Leonard Malting has been a thing!), what "girl beer" is/isn't, and the differences in treatment of male vs female taproom/brewery staff by customers. Plus! The endless doubt of knowledge, expertise, and experience of female-identifying workers, adorable skunks, and responsible kid ownership. All this and so much more, on this episode of Barley & Me Presents: Leonard Malting.
If you have a beer-centric or heavily-beer-involved movie recommendation, let us know and maybe we’ll do this again!
Find out more about Girl Beer @girlbeerdoc
Find out more about PBS Sacramento at @pinkbootssacramento on Instagram
Check out Corky’s bad movie podcast on social media @daredanielpod, or listen wherever you get your podcasts.
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod. Be sure to follow us for more info on future Barley & Me Presents! Editions, as we try to tackle music, movies, sports, and more! Email questions/comments/concerns/Dream Teams to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Also, during this crisis, 100% of profits from sales of Barley & Me shirts via Zen-Threads.com will go to Another Round, Another Rally, a charity that supports front- and back-of-house members of the service industry whose wages and benefits may be affected. So grab a shirt and help a good cause and people you love! https://zen-threads.com/collections/beer-wine/products/barley-and-me-podcast-mens-crew-tee?fbclid=IwAR1G_5HJ3NCoWTRgmG6Q2PVALEiJsb1KtHClCaDli0NhsjZsc4KPmWCp_os
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-daily on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for those affected by this shutdown. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
Do you have a story about racism, sexism, homophobia, or transphobia in the beer industry? You can submit your story anonymously, to be read on a future episode of Barley & Me at https://forms.gle/SmDuBT3zGKxNCVZ757
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Alternate Music: “JamRoc” by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)
Thanks so much for listening.

Host Ben Rice travels to Sacramento, CA to meet with Clarksburg, CA's finest, Nick Vellanoweth, owner of Nitty's Cider, and Josh Kress, owner of Husick's Taphouse and all-around too-busy guy. We talk about business ownership pre-, during, and post-pandemic, the insane costs of keeping cool customers (or customers cool, whatever), instant cider varieties, and local musicians we love. Plus! Failure (fear of); Chipotle (hacks); and annoying people (who offer business advice and/or ask for an address after you give them the name of a venue). Oh yeah, and cider cider cider! All this and more, on episode 165 of Barley & Me. Enjoy!
Find out more about Nitty's Cider @nittyscider
Get all that BBQ, beer, and wine goodness at Husick's Taphouse @husickstaphouse
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod. Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-regularly on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for various local and national charities with goals of making our world a better place. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
It's now been over a year since Brienne Allen's revelations about the beer industry's treatment of women and minorities. If you have stories about change (or lack thereof), please submit them (anonymously if you wish) and your story may be featured on a future episode. Simply go to https://forms.gle/2QNebCn7NHHjsEbg6
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Host Ben Rice travels to Folsom, CA to talk to local artist and children's book author (and more, just listen) Brian Wallace over some Out of Bounds beers at Out of Bounds Craft Kitchen & Biergarten. It turns out that everyone is dealing with some form of burnout, so no OOB reps were able to appear for the ep, which is totally fine. We talk about Brian's slow but steady transition to full time artistry after being a graphic designer for hire, our favorite breweries (sorry to all we forgot to name), time management, and volunteering. PLUS! Brian's inspiration for his two children's book, Ben's own failed book venture, dumb teenage rebellion, and all the Folsom history you need to know! All this and more, on episode 164 of Barley & Me. Enjoy!
You can find out more about Brian Wallace's art at the aptly-named www.brianwallaceart.com or find his books (Daisy & The Dirty Dozen or Winnie & Ruby's Folsom ABC Adventure) at Ruby's Books in Folsom - 724 Sutter St, Folsom, CA 95630, www.rubysfolsom.com
Don't forget to look out for the 20-30 Club 100th anniversary beer from Red Bus, or join the Folsom-Cordova Community Partnership at www.thefccp.org
As for Out of Bounds Craft Kitchen & Biergarten, check out @outofboundsbrewing_folsom for more info!
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod. Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
And be sure to learn more about the Black Is Beautiful Initiative, as featured in Episode 129 with Marcus Baskerville of Weathered Souls Brewing, at www.blackisbeautiful.beer
Get your merch or make donations at www.customink.com/fundraising/black-is-beautiful-initiative
Also, during this crisis, 100% of profits from sales of Barley & Me shirts via Zen-Threads.com will go to Another Round, Another Rally, a charity that supports front- and back-of-house members of the service industry whose wages and benefits may be affected. So grab a shirt and help a good cause and people you love! https://zen-threads.com/collections/beer-wine/products/barley-and-me-podcast-mens-crew-tee?fbclid=IwAR1G_5HJ3NCoWTRgmG6Q2PVALEiJsb1KtHClCaDli0NhsjZsc4KPmWCp_os
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-daily on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for those affected by this shutdown. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
Do you have a story about racism, sexism, homophobia, or transphobia in the beer industry? You can submit your story anonymously, to be read on a future episode of Barley & Me at https://forms.gle/SmDuBT3zGKxNCVZ757
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Host Ben Rice travels to West Sacramento to discuss Sacramento Beer Week 2022 (April 22 through May 1) with the president of the Sacramento Area Brewer's Guild/co-owner of Jackrabbit Brewing Erle Mankin. We discuss the kickoff Sac Mac & Beer Festival taking place on April 23 (go to www.sacramentobeerweek.com for tickets - also, I might have access to some free tickets - follow me @barleyandmepod for details!), Sacramento Beer Week's fraught history, Jackrabbit's recent 9th anniversary celebration, and mathematics. PLUS! Ben runs TOO MANY RAD COMEDY SHOWS ON THE LEAD-UP TO BEER WEEK (seriously, scroll down for info), Erle tells Ben the difference between kolsch and pilsner, and thinly-veiled "hilarous" jabs are taken between host and guest, in this absolute romp/breeze of an episode. Speaking of Breez, did you know original Barley & Me theme song composer Breez recently worked with (hed) p.e. on their latest record? Check out "F*** What You Say" which he does the entirety of the production and backing track for.
Anyway, comedy shows leading up to/kicking off Sacramento Beer Week, as brought to you by Barley & Me host Ben Rice, include:
Sunday, April 17, 7pm, at SacYard Community Taphouse: New York comedy legend Eddie Pepitone visits Sacramento for the first time he can remember, with pal JT Habersaat, the "punk rock comic" who recently had the #1 comedy album on iTunes, plus locals DNA & Becky Lynn. Tickets are $20 in advance on Eventbrite or $25 at the door. You seriously do not want to miss it.
But if you have to miss it, you can almost immediately correct your mistake on Wednesday, April 20 (4/20 blaze it) at Crooked Lane Brewing for their 8pm show starring Anthony K, who is back by popular demand after wrecking shop opening for Kiry Shabazz (Comedy Central) in 2019. Tickets are $10 at www.crookedlanebrewing.com. Also appearing: Taylor Evans and Serena Gamboa, AKA The Spicy Latina.
But if you have to miss THAT too, come down to Vacaville the very next day, Thursday, April 21, at 7pm, for the return of Free Live Stand-Up, starring Dennis Gaxiola, who will be working out material for his SECOND Dry Bar Comedy Special, for FREE. Also appearing: me (sorry) and Becky Lynn!
Gone to all/none/2 or 3 of these? Well, it's time to get Sacramento Beer Week 2022 going! So Friday, April 22, at 7pm, come out to Fort Rock Brewing in Rancho Cordova for their monthly free comedy show (hosted by yours truly) starring Saul Trujillo (a regular at the Comedy Store in Los Angeles, whose debut album Drugstore Debutante is available now), plus Scott Powers and special guests Emily Pedersen, Connor Martin, and Celeste Koegl.
That's all too much to process. So here is even more stuff!
Find out more about Sacramento Beer Week 2022 at www.sacramentobeerweek.com or follow @sacramentobeerweek on IG
Check out the Sacramento Area Brewer's Guild @sacramentoareabrewersguild (copy and paste this for ease)
Or just head down to Jackrabbit Brewing in West Sacramento, visit www.jackrabbitbrewing.com, or follow @jackrabbitbrewing which is not to be confused with @jackrabbit_brewing_co in Essex, England (if you've read this far into the notes, hopefully you've also listened to the episode for this "cool" reference) to get more info on their beers, their events (including Sacramento Beer Week 2022 events like their second Friday concert), and more!
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod. Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-regularly on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for various local and national charities with goals of making our world a better place. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
It's now been 9+ months since Brienne Allen's revelations about the beer industry's treatment of women and minorities. If you have stories about change (or lack thereof), please submit them (anonymously if you wish) and your story may be featured on a future episode. Simply go to https://forms.gle/2QNebCn7NHHjsEbg6
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Host Ben Rice grabs a pint on his patio with Melissa McCann, the executive director of the Women's International Beer Summit, part of the newly-minted Women's Craft Fermentation Alliance. Over a glass of Crowns & Hops's Black Is Beautiful pecan pie stout, we discuss the creation of this endeavor, the challenges and successes of starting it during COVID, winning Athletic Brewing's Trailblazer award, Melissa's path from casual drinker to executive director, and becoming a 501(c)3. Plus! Incredible stories coming to this year's event (April 23 & 24, again digitally - get your tickets at www.wcfa.beer), what's new for this year, and what's in the future for this wonderful interactive event.
Again, get your tickets at www.wcfa.beer for just $40 (sale ends March 15 - $50 after that). First 300 ticket buyers also get an interactive bonus box loaded with sensory and other goodies to pair with talks throughout the summit. Plus, check out details on the Women's International Beer Summit digital happy hour April 22!
Find out more about the Women's International Beer Summit at the website that's been in this description twice already or follow them on IG @womensintlbeersummit
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod. Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-regularly on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for various local and national charities with goals of making our world a better place. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
It's now been 9+ months since Brienne Allen's revelations about the beer industry's treatment of women and minorities. If you have stories about change (or lack thereof), please submit them (anonymously if you wish) and your story may be featured on a future episode. Simply go to https://forms.gle/2QNebCn7NHHjsEbg6
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)

Host Ben Rice travels to Federation Brewing in Oakland, CA, to talk with Hella Coastal's Mario Benjamin & Chaz Hubbard and comedian Karinda Dobbins. We discuss Hella Coastal's alternating proprietorship arrangement with Federation and how that differs from contract brewing, aiming to become the first Black-owned brewery in Oakland and why loudly and proudly stating that is important, as well as the importance of visual storytelling. Plus! Karinda's debut album Black and Blue (available now on Blonde Medicine), Louisiana gumbo do's and don't's, changing generational thought, and beating your children at Mario Kart. All this and more, on the latest episode of Barley & Me. Enjoy!
Find out more about Hella Coastal @ www.hellacoastal.com or follow them across social media @hellacoasta (Venmo hella-coastal)
Be sure to check out Karinda's new album Black & Blue wherever you get your albums, or find it on Blonde Medicine (vinyl available!). And of course, follow Karinda @karinadobbins (Venmo Karinda-Dobbins)
Barley & Me can be found across social media @barleyandmepod. Email questions/comments/concerns/guest ideas/brewery ideas to barleyandmepodcast@gmail.com or barleyandmepod@gmail.com
Ben is also posting #Chugs4Charity videos semi-regularly on Instagram (@barleyandmepod), to help raise funds for various local and national charities with goals of making our world a better place. You can Venmo Ben ($comedianbenrice) or hit his PayPal (@barleyandmepod) and all money will go to support the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and other civil rights helpers. Charities will change with the times and as emergencies arise. But the point is: all donations will go to help those who need it.
It's now been 9+ months since Brienne Allen's revelations about the beer industry's treatment of women and minorities. If you have stories about change (or lack thereof), please submit them (anonymously if you wish) and your story may be featured on a future episode. Simply go to https://forms.gle/2QNebCn7NHHjsEbg6
Intro Music: “Functional Alcoholism” by Be Brave Bold Robot (@bebraveboldrobot)
Interstitial Music: "JamRoc" by Breez (@breeztheartist)
Logo by Jessica DiMesio (@alchemistqueen)