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Patrick Howard

Jun 2, 2025

The Beer That Changed His Life | Bad Dad Brewing

Patrick Howard shares how Bad Dad Brewing grew from a family kitchen to a bold Indiana beer brand—with smart marketing and big partnerships.

Podcast Summary

Today my guest is Patrick Howard, the Co-Owner of Bad Dad Brewing.

We got to dive into the story behind the family-owned brewery in Fairmount, Indiana that Patrick runs alongside his father Barry and his brother Derek.

We discuss the origins of the business, which started as a result of their mother's successful restaurant, and evolved into a staple of Indiana's craft beer scene.

Patrick also shares insights on the company's unique branding, pivotal moments of growth, and significant partnerships, including their association with Holiday World.

You are going to learn about:

  • Navigating family business dynamics 

  • Leveraging creative marketing

  • The challenges faced by startup breweries 

Thank you to our partners:

Hard Truth Bourbon & BBQ Fest
Hope Plumbing, Heating and Cooling

Check out these great clips from the show:
01:42 Interview with Patrick Howard: The Story of Bad Dad Brewing
03:01 The Growth and Success of Bad Dad Brewing
05:18 Challenges and Innovations in the Craft Beer Industry
08:47 Marketing Strategies and Brand Identity
12:00 Distribution and Expansion
22:34 Grassroots Marketing and Community Engagement
26:49 Competing in the Indiana Beer Market
28:20 Production and Distribution Insights
29:28 Partnership with Holiday World
32:29 Private Label Projects
37:26 Adapting to Industry Changes
39:17 Working with Family
42:27 Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

Guest(s)

Patrick Howard

Date Published

June 2, 2025

This podcast is sponsored by

Sweetwater

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

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The Beer That Changed His Life | Bad Dad Brewing

Podcast

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Podcast

Share Your Indiana Podcast Guest

Know someone with a great Indiana story? Nominate them as a guest for the Get IN podcast and help us share real Hoosier voices.

Podcast

Share Your Indiana Podcast Guest

Know someone with a great Indiana story? Nominate them as a guest for the Get IN podcast and help us share real Hoosier voices.

A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.
A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.