Spreading Hoppiness explores hops, their history, and the people behind them. The show features conversations with brewers, growers, and suppliers from across the brewing industry. It covers hop varieties, production, and the trends shaping beer.
Episodes
Ep 5 - Pushing the Envelope, Improving consistency & Efficiency
How do you improve efficiency without sacrificing creativity? 🍻
In our latest episode of Spreading Hoppiness, we sit down with Matty Gilliland from New Belgium Brewing Company and Craig Thomas from Abstrax Hops. Together, they discuss Abstrax's suite of hop, fruit and cannabis products, and how they are helping brewers improve consistency, increase efficiency and unlock new opportunities for recip
Ep 4 - No Question, is a Stupid Question
No question's a stupid question , that's this week's theme on the Spreading Hoppiness podcast!
We've gathered four of our supplier partners to share their latest updates. From innovations in brewing to the checks that could save you time, money and future headaches, we discuss the questions you should be asking and the answers you need to know.
And that's not all...
For this month's Five Minutes w
Ep 3 - Faces Behind The Flavour
Let's here some stories from the hop yards.
Recorded at the Craft Brewers Conference in the USA, Faram's Paul Corbett sits down with our North American hop grower friends to chat about their farms, families, shining varieties, and growing conditions behind influential hops.
Our regular Five Minutes with Faram focuses on Hugo from Renegade Brewery in the UK. Faram's Jon gets Hugo's take on his br
Ep 2 - 3 2 1 A Cross Style Brewing Showcase
Ever wondered how the same Hop Development Variety performs across different beer styles?
In this episode of Spreading Hoppiness, we’re bringing you our 3•2•1 Cross-Style Brewing Showcase from BeerX to answer that very question! Featuring three great brewers - Pip from Ampersand, Mike from Mason's and Dan from Copper Beech.
Three brewers.
Two beer styles each.
One single hop variety per brewer
Ep - 1 Thinking Past the Pint: Brewers, Biochar & Better Beer
We’re back for season 3! Have you missed us?
This week we are kicking things off with a cracker of an episode! 🎙️🌱
We have Flo Vialan our new Market Development Manager with 25 years of brewing experience, taking on Will Rogers, quizzing him about biochar, soil health and the future of hop growing, giving you that brewers perspective! From ancient Amazonian 'black earth' to modern lab technology,
Ep - 11 The Good, the Bad and the Fuggley
Harvest is over so let’s recap on the 2025 growing season, as we hear from 3 hop growers and our own Technical Director Will Rogers
Will sits down with growers Chris, Matt and James to chat through a season that was… well, fuggley in more ways than one. From heatwaves to climate battles, the growers tell all on what it really takes to grow top quality hops throughout these challenging conditions.
Ep 10 - The Science of Saving Your Pint
It’s back to school this week on Spreading Hoppiness!
Join Faram's Paddie as he heads to Nottingham University to catch up with the Murphy & Son technical team, in their brand-new technical lab! From the latest equipment developments and new products, to rescuing your infected yeast, this facility opens up a world of possibilities and beer testing abilities.
Join Steph, James and Sara as the
Ep 9 - Freezing time and Making Your Beers Pop
Making your beers pop!
In this episode, the brewing experts from our Brewery Resource Roadshow jump into practical tips and fresh perspectives. Join us as Murphy & Son share how to extend the life of your brews, Crisp Malt reveals their guide to achieving the perfect boiling wort, and Fermentis talks lager with expert advice on how to make your beers pop.
The conversation keeps flowing as Fara
Ep 8 - Inside Oakham Ales: Finding a Game Changer
We're back with Spreading Hoppiness, and this week Faram Jon heads over to Oakham Ales and gets technical with head brewer Ed! From the kit they use to maximise hop flavour, to how Citra® became a game-changer in the brewery, as well as Ed's beer career!
Meanwhile Paddie heads north to Scotland to meet Ali from West Brewery in Glasgow. This German themed brewhouse is strict in following the Reinh
Ep - 7 Meet Your Makers: Supplier Stories, Solutions and Savings
It's Spreading Hoppiness time!
In this episode we have another catch up chat with our brewery supplier friends to see what's new in the world of malt, yeast and brewing aids. From perfecting your malt bill to dialling in yeast precision, we cover practical tips, sustainability ideas, supplier support updates, and ways to boost efficiency and cut costs.
That's not all, Maddie sits down with Libby
Ep 6 - Inside Budvar Brewery: Tradition, Technique and Taste
Step inside one of the world's most iconic breweries - Budvar!
In this episode of Spreading Hoppiness, our own Will Rogers travels to the Czech Republic to meet Adam Brož, the tenth legendary Brewmaster in Budvar's extensive history. Together, they share the traditions and techniques behind Budvar's authentic beers, from 300-meter-deep wells providing the perfect water, to the extended lagering pr
Ep 5 - From Bine to Brew: Hops from Around the World
International Hop Growers, the importance of working together & the tighty whities tale
Get ready to set off across the world on this week's episode of Spreading Hoppiness! We are bringing you ear to ear with 5 international hop growers from Slovenia, New Zealand, North America and the UK.
Learn about their backgrounds, their expertise and flavour breakthroughs with some great stories along t
Ep 4 - Hops on the Horizon: The Next Generation of Hop Flavours
Hop Heats Continues...
On this week's episode, our sensory session is bound to get your taste buds tingling! Join Charles Faram for the latest chapter in our experimental hop journey, with Buxton Brewery. We have brought together a panel of experts and 150 brewers to taste, explore and critique 4 BRAND new hop varieties that have never been brewed with before!
Brewing trials provide the vital fee
Ep 3 - Hops and High-Tech Innovations - The Abstrax Approach
Welcome back to Spreading Hoppiness, The Charles Faram Podcast, where we explore all things hops and brewing. In this latest episode, Hops & High-Tech Innovations hosts Maddie & Paddie chat with Craig Thomas (Abstrax Hops) and Julian Shrago (Beachwood Brewing) and, they learn how Abstrax is shaping the future of brewing.
Julian shares his journey from aerospace engineer to brewmaster, whi
Ep2 - Brew & Lore : Witches, World Records & Adventures in the World of Beer!
What do witches, world records, a day dedicated to celebrating beer, and hop root foraging have in common?
More than you realise, but for today it’s Jane Peyton! This month, we sit down with extraordinary storyteller and beer aficionado Jane to uncover the ‘spellbinding’ truth behind the classic Disney witch image, Jane’s adventures picking hops and foraging for rare hop shoots, the history of w
Ep 1 - The War on Hop Diseases: Could this be the End of Chemical Pesticides?
We're back for 2025, and we have a brilliant line up of hoppy topics, technical talks and brewing techniques!
This week we hear from hop grower Jim Barrett as he gives us the low down on the 2024 harvest, what methods he's been using to create award winning hops and how he's reducing the use of chemical pesticides. Could this be the future of hop growing?
But that's not all—we catch up with Wels
EP 32: Tears and a Tractor: The Grower Brewer Relationship
On this week's episode, Growers and Brewers talk relationships, but not the romantic kind... from crying on a tractor to why it's helpful for brewers to get to know their hop growers.
We have a huge selection of guests, including the team from Wye Valley Brewery, Ant from Ledbury Real Ales, and two of our illustrious hop growers, Tom Probert and Simon Parker, with plenty more mentions along the wa
Ep31: The Secrets of the Hop Lab & the Brewer who won't pick Favourites
Ever wondered about the science behind hop breeding or weather proofing the future? Well on this week's episode find out in a way we'll all understand, as Mark Dredge catches up with Klara Hajdu, Hop Breeder and expert at Wye Hops. From the Noah's ark of hops, to the magic of creating aroma, let her guide you through hop breeding as she brings her PhD research to life.
But that’s not all! Tune in
Ep30 - It's the Weyermann® Way: From Recipe to Refinement
Get ready for malt to take the spotlight on this week’s episode of Spreading Hoppiness. We welcome malt expert Axel Jany from Weyermann® Specialty Malts, all the way from Germany. He sits down with our own brewing expert Faram's Jon and Beer Writer Mark Dredge to chat about the world of malt and its impact on your beer.
From the heritage of favourite varieties such as ISARIA 1924® to developments
Ep 29 -Harvest Celebrations with Green Hops: Tips, Tricks and Brewing Techniques
It’s time for green-hopped beers! Join brewing experts Ben Adams and Chris Gooch from Teme Valley Brewery as they reveal the secrets behind using green hops in your brews. They discuss all things technical, from timing to quantity and flavour. Packed with expert tips, tricks, and stories, this episode will inspire your next brewing adventure.
But that’s not all! Join Paddie as he chats with the te
Ep 28 - Hops to Sky-High Ambition: Generations, Aspirations and Evolution
Born to hop farmer or wanted to be a pilot? Tales of hop picking, changes over the years and what remains timeless in the craft. Join us on this week's podcast, as Charlie, Maddie and Paddie, chat with four of our Charles Faram Farms growers about what it’s like growing up with hops in your blood. Featuring Herefordshire-based Tom Probert, Worcestershire’s Richard Capper, and Molly & Bill Bid
Ep 27 - On the Farm: The Hidden Heroes of the Hop Yards
This week, you join us on the farm—hop grower Tom Probert's farm, to be precise!
Hop yards are full of wildlife, some we like, and some we don't! Grower Tom Probert and our own Will Rogers put hop agronomist Jonathan Blackman to the test as they go through what is essential to hop growing and what you need to avoid.
This episode explores the clever ways farmers are controlling pests, keeping soil
Ep26: Kiwi Kronicles - Brewers, Baggage and Bio Security
Brewing experts Rhys Pillai, Brian Dickson and Jim Rangeley unlock the mysteries that make New Zealand hops the way they are. Hosted by flavour nerd Mark Dredge with growing insights from our own Will Rogers. This episode is bursting with brewer experiences from hop farm to brew. You'll come away able to smash any pub quiz with questions about triploids and biosecurity.
Paddie then heads over to
Ep25: Brewing Green: Expert Tips for a Sustainable Future
Best of both! In this episode, we're joined by Ant Stevens co-owner of Ledbury Real Ales WHO IS ALSO, Head of Innovation - in his other job.
Ant knows a massive amount about carbon issues because over the last two years, he's been building a carbon credit marketplace that is allowing people who are capturing carbon dioxide, or greenhouse gases, to then transact those with companies that want
Ep24 - Aroma Innovations: Is This What Your Brewery's Been Looking For?
Get ready for a flavour-packed adventure in this week's episode of Spreading Hoppiness! Join Mark Dredge and Jon Stringer as they dive into the world of taste, exploring everything from fruit to hops – and even cannabis (without the CBD & THC). Is this the groundbreaking product your brewery has been waiting for?
But that's not all – Paddie puts Hook Norton Brewer Andy to the test with this we
Ep23 - Kiwi Kronicles: Dr Ron Beatson Talks Science, Stories and Sensational Flavours
This week's episode is brought to you from New Zealand! Will Rogers, the group technical director, catches up with New Zealand Hop master Dr. Ron Beatson as they discuss all things New Zealand Hops and uncover the science, stories, and sensational flavours behind these varieties.
But wait, there's more! Join Maddie as she chats with Berkshire-based brewer Ben from Stardust Brewery in this week's F
Ep22: Beyond the Bine - Inside the Hop Development Program
We're back with another hop-filled episode. Join us as we sit down with hop grower Peter Glendinning, hop breeder Klara Hajdu, and Technical Director Will Rogers as they discuss hop development. Together, they unravel the history of hop growing, explore the future, and delve into everything in between.
But that's not it! Join Paddie as he catches up with Worcestershire-based brewer Johnny while
Ep 21: What Really Happens At BeerX?
Have you ever missed out on the UK's premier beer and brewing trade show? Wondering what draws enthusiasts and professionals alike to this grand event? Dive into this episode where we connect with leading brewing suppliers across the UK, exploring their journey to this monumental trade gathering. But wait, there's more! Join us as we engage in our signature '5 Minutes with Faram' session, featurin
Ep 20: Hops on the Horizon: An Expedition into Experimental Flavours
Join us at BeerX for our interactive tasting session. Let's dive into new flavours and some brand-new experimental hops. Our Charles Faram hop experts Paul Corbett and Will Rogers, alongside Buxton Brewery's Production Director Rob Topham and Beer Writer Mark Dredge, will explore our hop development process and provide insight into the future of British hops and how they shape our beer. This episo
Episode 19: Hop Processing - The Secret is in the Pellet
In this week's episode, we're exploring the fascinating world of hop pellet processing. From the fields to the facilities, join us as we uncover the journey these green cones take before they end up in your favourite brews. Also hearing from Cirencester based brewer Lucy as she talks us through her favourite hops, beers and everything in between.
To keep up to date with all hoppy news follow our
Episode 18: Inside the Minds of Headbrewers - International Hop Awards
From one hop to another, let’s explore the minds of head brewers as they talk hop varieties. This episode of ‘Spreading Hoppiness’ unpicks the thoughts of head brewers as they take us through each round of the International Hop Awards, and give us their much-valued opinions. Also, within this episode we check in with Salisbury based brewery, Rude Giant.
To keep up to date with all hoppy news fol
Episode 17: On the Farm: The Hop Grower's Year
From the frosty fields of January to the bustling harvests of September, this episode of 'Spreading Hoppiness' unpacks the nuances of hop growing, offering valuable insights for brewers. Featuring award-winning beer writer Mark Dredge, Charles Faram’s Group Technical Director Will Rogers, and 5th generation hop farmer and chairman of the Charles Faram Farms, Richie Phillips. This conversation is f
Episode 16:Henry Kirk Five Minutes with Faram's
Henry Kirk from Dark Star Brewery answers the Five Minutes with Faram's questions with our Jon Stringer. He talks about Azacca, Rodenbach, Fat Cat in Norwich, Hopguns as a game-changer, his obsession with biodigesters, how he got into brewing, Brewers' Christmas, beer/wine hybrids and French Fuggles.
https://www.darkstarbrewing.co.uk/beers
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bat_and_trap
http://www.c
Episode 15: Graham Gamache of Cornerstone Ranches. Hops & vintage trucks
Graham Gamache talks to Faram's MD Paul Corbett about his farm in Toppenish WA and hop varieties including the peculiarities of Cashmere.
They talk about the cool Dodge D4's that were bought in 1974 from the US Forces and the trusty handmade wooden picking machine from the 50's. A lot of history and a lot of info.
http://www.cornerstoneranches.com
https://www.charlesfaram.co.uk/video-and-podcast
Episode 14: New Zealand hop chat
Charles Faram MD Paul Corbett chats about hops over in New Zealand with George Tunstall from NZ Hops Ltd and Brent McGlashen of Mac Hops. They talk about environmentally friendly initiatives, staffing and shipping issues, machinery, opportunities, successes and the importance of contracting.
https://www.charlesfaram.co.uk/video-and-podcast-2021-series/ #hops #nzhops
Episode 13: Kevin Le Tiec Five Minutes with Faram's
Charles Faram's Andrew Whalley talks with Kevin Le Tiec from Brasserie Brittanys about his favourite beers and beery experiences.
https://www.charlesfaram.co.uk/video-and-podcast-2021-series/
https://brasseriebrittanys.bzh/
Episode 12: Brewery Resource Roadshow with Fermentis
The sixth BRR segment focuses on our supplier Fermentis. Dr Gino Baart talks about new product launches, his homebrewing during lockdown, influences of new styles and webinars.
https://www.charlesfaram.co.uk/video-and-podcast-2021-series/
https://fermentis.com/en/
https://www.charlesfaram.co.uk/dry-yeast-webinars-from-fermentis-and-charles-faram/
Episode 11: Darren Batten Five Minutes with Faram's
In this episode, Darren Batten from Palmer's Brewery tells us about his favourite hops, beers, pubs, interests and new things happening at the brewery.
https://www.charlesfaram.co.uk/news/darrenbatten
https://palmersbrewery.com/
Episode 10: Brewery Resource Roadshow with Weyermann®
The fifth BRR segment focuses on our supplierWeyermann®. Axel Jany talks about Brexit, the business through lockdown, base malts and smoked malts.
https://www.charlesfaram.co.uk/video-and-podcast-2021-series/
https://www.weyermann.de/in/
Weyermann® English Playlist on youtube
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBCG7tDP8IHXNqb9RSCgRGw_AlT92qJJB
Episode 09: Brewery Resource Roadshow with Murphy's
The Sixth BRR segment focuses on our supplier Iain Kenny at Murphy & Son. Iain talks about the latest happenings at Murphy's and what they've been up to in the lab.
.
https://www.charlesfaram.co.uk/video-and-podcast-2021-series/
https://www.murphyandson.co.uk/
Episode 08: Spartan Brewery five minutes with Faram's
In this episode, Jon Stringer talks to the guys behind Spartan Brewery about their favourite hops, beers, pubs, festivals, pork scratchings and what's next for the brewery.
We have also included our 'Just add water' feature where the guys discuss their favourite recipe.
Episode 07: Brewery Resource Roadshow with LemonTop Creative
As we can't meet up in person for our day of seminars and pub visits, we've brought updates to you online. The third BRR segment focuses on our supplier LemonTop creative. Andy Mogg talks about branding, e-commerce and social media. https://www.charlesfaram.co.uk/video-and-podcast-2021-series/ https://www.lemontopcreative.com/
Episode 06: Paul and Richie Phillips chat about the stringing process
The start of the grower's year. Paul Corbett chats with grower, Richie Phillips, about the stringing process. Warning, contains wind noise.
https://youtu.be/9F1CXJqeVBA
Episode 05: Brewery Resource Roadshow Online, Crisp Malt
As we can't meet up in person for our day of seminars and pub visits, we've brought updates to you online. This second segment focuses on our supplier partner Crisp Malt. Nigel Gibbons talks about new products and changes.
https://www.charlesfaram.co.uk/video-and-podcast-2021-series/
https://crispmalt.com/
#farming #growers #beer #brewing #maltsers #anecdotes #brr2021 #breweryresourceroadshow #
Episode 04: Simon Yates Five Minutes with Faram
This is the Podcast adaptation of our newsletter feature which delves into the life of a different brewer each month. In this episode, Simon Yates tells us about his favourite hops, beers, pubs, music and anecdotes.
https://www.charlesfaram.co.uk/news/simonyates5mins
https://www.bankssbeer.co.uk/
Episode 03: Brewery Resource Roadshow Online, Rankin Brothers
As we can't meet up in person for our day of seminars and pub visits, we've brought updates to you online. This is the first segment and it focuses on our supplier partner Rankin. Jim Rankin talks about local produce, Brexit, sustainability, the #RaiseAglass initiative and a secret scheme to be launched in May
https://www.rankincork.co.uk/
https://www.charlesfaram.co.uk/video-and-podcast-2021-seri
Episode 02: Paul chats to Darren Gamache of Amarillo® fame
Paul Corbett chats to Darren Gamache of Amarillo fame. Includes the discovery of Amarillo, a lab in his great grandmother’s basement and state preference for our UK customers
https://www.charlesfaram.co.uk/video-and-podcast-2021-series/
https://vgfinc.com/
#hops #amarillohops #farming #growers #beer #brewing #hops #ingredients #hophistory #companyhistory #worcesterbusiness #history #anecdotes
Episode 01: Interview with Paul Corbett and intro
Starting off our 2021 series of Podcasts and videos on all sorts of topics from the team members, to recipes, hop talk, chats with the growers, chats with brewers and technical advice. This first episode provides an interesting insight into how Faram's has changed over the 30 years with some funny stories that allow you to see inside our MD's mind.
https://www.charlesfaram.co.uk/video-and-podcast-
