E2: Bob Russell @ Collective Arts Craft Brewing on Beers, Brands & Mentors

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In 2012 Bob Russell co-founded Collective Arts Brewing in Toronto, Canada with Matt Johnson. Collective Arts Brewing is a unique, grassroots, craft brewing company fusing the craft of beer making with the inspired talents of emerging and seasoned artists, musicians, photographers & filmmakers. Bob himself has over two decades of experience in marketing, design and brand strategy for consumer products. He has worked on some of the most popular and recognizable food and beverage brands in North America.

In this episode we cover

• Future of the craft brewing industry in North America
• Differences between craft brewing and beer that is mass produced
• How to develop a career in marketing and branding in food, beverage and consumer packaged goods
• Sourcing artwork for Collective Arts
• Experiences associated with being an entrepreneur
• Importance of mentors and how to reach out to them
• Bob’s favourite beers

Other Comments

Speaking with Bob was a treat. I love the concept of Collective Arts and I love their beer, which is sold in bottles and cans featuring unique artwork from artists all over the world, Their brews are also available on draft at their cool space in Hamilton, Ontario, where it is just as common to find yourself at a yoga class followed by a glass of delicious, craft brewed, beer as it is to be swaying to the tunes of a local DJ or live band in their spacious beer garden.

Bob has some great advice about mentorship which starts around  the 20 minute mark in this episode. If you are starting out in your career and you only have a few minutes to listen, check it out.

If you are a budding (or seasoned artist) and you want to participate in the next call for artwork (Series 7) then keep your eyes on the submissions page of Collective Art’s website in mid to late October. FoodGrads will tweet out the announcements once they are made.