What does it take to become a homebrewer? Is it complicated, expensive, or time-consuming? How can an association thrive by making a bold move towards independence?

In this episode of Associations Thrive, host Joanna Pineda interviews Julia Herz, Executive Director of the American Homebrewers Association (AHA). Julia discusses:

• How the American Homebrewers Association has been representing homebrewers since 1978 and played a crucial role in birthing the craft beer movement.
• The association’s membership base, which consists mostly of individual hobbyist brewers but also includes supplier partners.
• The accessibility of homebrewing: if you can make soup or bake bread, you can brew beer!
• The AHA’s transition to becoming an independent organization in 2025, incorporating in Colorado and working towards 501(c)(3) status.
• The strategic reasons for independence, including the need for dedicated staff and resources focused solely on homebrewing interests.
• The worldwide reach of homebrewing and how AHA supports homebrewers globally.
• The factors behind the large number of craft breweries in states like California, Colorado, and Pennsylvania.
• The importance of storytelling for the craft of homebrewing and how the AHA plays a vital role in promoting the hobby.
• AHA’s resources, including a database of over 1,400 homebrew recipes and the publication Zymergy Magazine.
• The association’s event strategy, including National Homebrew Day, Learn to Homebrew Day, and plans to bring back an in-person annual conference in 2026.

References:

• AHA website
• AHA’s Sense of Beer Style Podcast