In Part 1 of our conversation with Streetside Brewery owner and head brewer Garrett Hickey, we dive deep into the creativity, experimentation, and passion behind one of Cincinnati’s most innovative craft breweries.

Garrett talks about balancing hype beers with classic styles, the evolution of New England IPAs over the last decade, and why Streetside continues pushing boundaries with massive barrel-aged stouts, smoothie sours, milkshake IPAs, and experimental releases.

We also get into the realities of running a modern brewery — from brewing schedules and Untappd ratings to festival season, customer expectations, and deciding which wild beer ideas are worth bringing to life.

We taste and discuss several standout Streetside beers including the legendary “Speak of the Devil: Decadence” barrel-aged imperial stout, “Spring Breakers” West Coast Pilsner collab with New Groove Artisan Brewery, and some of Streetside’s unforgettable fruited and dessert-inspired creations.

Garrett also shares behind-the-scenes stories about brewing mistakes that accidentally became fan favorites, naming beers, social media culture, and how certain releases become part of brewery lore.

If you love craft beer innovation, barrel-aged stouts, New England IPAs, Cincinnati beer culture, or hearing how breweries balance artistry with business, this episode is packed with great conversation and beer geek insight.

Cheers!