Recently, I had the opportunity to attend CBP Connects New Orleans, hosted by Craft Beer Professionals (CBP), and it was an experience that reinforced why this industry is unlike any other.
CBP Connects events are designed to bring together brewery owners, operators, suppliers, and advisors from across the country—and New Orleans delivered on that mission in every way. From thoughtful programming to meaningful conversations, the event highlighted just how valuable the Craft Beer Professionals organization is to the broader industry.
A Well-Curated and Diverse Program
The conference schedule was packed with strong sessions and speakers, including not only leaders from within the craft beer industry but also professionals from outside it. This cross-industry perspective was particularly valuable, as many of the challenges breweries face—labor, capital access, operations, leadership, and growth—are not unique to beer.
The sessions were practical, relevant, and forward-looking. Whether the focus was operations, people management, strategy, or long-term sustainability, the programming consistently delivered actionable insight rather than surface-level commentary.
The Power of Peer-to-Peer Learning
While the speakers and sessions were excellent, my favorite part of the conference came at the very end.
During an open Q&A session, attendees asked direct, honest questions of their peers—questions rooted in real challenges they are currently facing. What stood out most was how willing everyone was to engage. People openly shared what had worked, what hadn’t, and what they would do differently if given the chance.
This was the moment where the true strength of the craft beer community became most visible.
Brewery owners, regardless of size or market, often experience many of the same issues throughout the business lifecycle. Because of that shared experience, nearly every question prompted thoughtful answers, practical recommendations, and genuine support from others in the room.
There was no posturing. No gatekeeping. Just professionals helping one another.
Why Craft Beer Professionals Matters
Organizations like Craft Beer Professionals play a critical role in the health of the industry. CBP provides a space where education, connection, and collaboration can happen in a meaningful way. Events like CBP Connects go beyond networking—they build trust and foster relationships that last well beyond the conference itself.
For an industry that can be challenging, capital-intensive, and emotionally demanding, having a community like this matters.
Grateful to Be Part of This Industry
Outside of the beer (which, of course, was excellent), what I walked away with most was gratitude. I am truly lucky to be part of the craft beer industry. Time and again, it proves to feel less like a competitive marketplace and more like a family—one that wants to see each other succeed.
Thank you to Craft Beer Professionals, the speakers, the organizers, and everyone who attended CBP Connects New Orleans. I’m already looking forward to the next one.