The Brewing Network Presents | The Session

Live from Modern Times With Garrett Marrero of Craft Ohana and Maui Brewing Co.

·1 hr 20 min·5 clips

Garrett Marrero, new owner of Modern Times, reveals how he's building a craft beer empire from Hawaii to San Diego.

The episode opens live from Modern Times' Loma Land Fermentorium in San Diego, hosted by Justin Crosley and Beardy. Guest Garrett Marrero, founder of Maui Brewing and new owner of Modern Times, joins to discuss his expanding craft beer empire under Craft Ohana. He details Maui Brewing's growth from 300 barrels in 2005 to 130,000 barrels projected for Craft Ohana this year. A key topic is the shift from brewing Maui beer exclusively in Hawaii to now producing it at Modern Times on the mainland, addressing past claims about integrity and transparency. Garrett recounts the acquisition of Modern Times, which went to auction in June; he set the stalking horse bid at $7.62 million, but it was bid up to $21 million by others. After the winning bidder backed out, he retraded the deal and acquired Modern Times for $10 million in September. The episode explores the rationale behind keeping Modern Times as a separate brand within Craft Ohana, allowing for different creative outlets like barrel-aging and coffee. Sales representative Kelsey Weiss discusses her move from Maui to the mainland and introduces new beers like Sunshine Girl Golden Ale. Later, Kyle, director of Special Projects, joins to describe the barrel-aging program, including the beer Chaos Grid, a blend of five beers aged 22-34 months with adjuncts like vanilla and coconut. The conversation touches on industry challenges, non-alcoholic beer, and personal focus strategies. The show concludes with a gift exchange and toast, highlighting the collaborative spirit between the Brewing Network and Craft Ohana.

As heard by us

A live brewery conversation finds its focus in ownership, brand growth, and a 4.8% beer made for repeat pours.

Modern Times sits at the center of a live PlayNext conversation about craft beer ownership, brand expansion, and the way a business keeps finding new room at the tap.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

Press play for a San Diego session with Maui Brewing Sunshine Girl Golden Ale, Garrett Marrero's Craft Ohana plans, and a Hawaiian cheers that lands with style.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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