Let’s Talk Beer, Music & Making It Big with Dan Gordon of Gordon Biersch Brewery

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This week on Here's What We Know, Gary shares a pint (and some amazing stories) with Dan Gordon of Gordon Biersch Brewery! From a teen trip to Germany that changed his life to crafting beers for big names like Sammy Hagar, Ryan Reynolds, and Trader Joe’s, Dan’s journey is equal parts inspiring and entertaining.

Plus, they dig into the heart of brewing, why music and beer are surprisingly connected, and how to do Oktoberfest the right way.

Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or just love a good story about pursuing your passion and inspiration, this episode is for you! Give it a listen, and maybe crack open a cold one while you do!

In This Episode:

• How a 15-year-old’s trip to Germany sparked a lifelong career
• The science behind consistent, quality beer making
• What it’s like brewing for Trader Joe’s, Kirkland, Betty Buzz, and beyond
• How Dan’s music background shapes teamwork and creativity in business
• Tips for Oktoberfest (and what to eat with your beer!)

This episode is sponsored by:

 Sterling Oak Cabinetry (Bring your dream cabinet to life!) 

Bio:

Dan Gordon is the co-founder of Gordon Biersch and one of America’s top brewing engineers. A San Jose native, Dan earned his brewing degree from the prestigious Technical University of Munich in Weihenstephan—becoming the first American in over 40 years to do so. Before that, he studied resource economics at UC Berkeley and gained hands-on experience at Anheuser-Busch and Spaten Brewery.

In 1988, Dan partnered with Dean Biersch to launch their first brewery restaurant in Palo Alto, helping to pioneer the brewpub concept in California. Today, he still oversees operations in San Jose, ensuring every beer follows traditional German purity laws using premium ingredients.

Beyond beer, Dan is also an accomplished jazz trombonist, performing across the Bay Area and recording with artists like Michael Davis and Curtis Campbell. Whether he’s brewing lagers or laying down brass lines, Dan brings heart, discipline, and creativity to everything he does.

Website: https://gordonbiersch.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-gordon-6429916/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gordonbierschbrewingco/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gordonbierschbrewco/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gordonbierschbrewco

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