Welcome to another installment of our Women-Owned Brewery Spotlight series at Work For Your Beer! Today, we are thrilled to showcase Badass Backyard Brewing, spearheaded by the multi-talented Charlene Honcik — Head Brewer, Owner, and Janitor extraordinaire (because every detail counts, right?).

Situated in Spokane Valley, WA, Badass Backyard Brewing isn’t just about crafting exceptional brews; it’s about embodying inclusivity, community, and an unapologetic passion for great beer.

Read on to hear all about Charlene’s experience in the craft beer industry.

BEING A WOMAN IN THE BREWING INDUSTRY

Work For Your Beer (WFYB): How has being a women-owned brewery influenced your approach to brewing or running the business?

Charlene Honcik (CH): I try to bring a unique perspective to brewing and running the business. I emphasize inclusivity, sustainability, and community involvement in my approach, and I also create beer styles that appeal to a diverse range of tastes.

WFYB: What challenges have you faced as a woman in the craft beer industry, and how have you overcome them?

CH: As a woman in the craft beer industry, I’ve faced challenges such as sexism, discrimination, and stereotypes about women’s knowledge of beer. To overcome these challenges, I’ve built a strong support network of fellow women brewers or industry professionals who can provide valuable mentorship and solidarity. Additionally, focusing on my passion for brewing and continuously honing my skills helps establish credibility and earns respect in the industry. Advocating for inclusivity and diversity within the industry has also contributed to creating a more welcoming and equitable environment for all brewers, regardless of gender.

WFYB: What is your proudest moment as a woman in craft beer?

CH: Receiving a Gold medal for my Robust Porter would be a measurable answer, but I’m honestly most proud of my customers. They are an amazing group of people who continue to provide support, accolades, and love each and every day. I’m so lucky to have them and so proud to have created the space that attracts high-quality, open-minded individuals 💖

WFYB: Wow, that response hit me right in the feels. It’s so incredible to see how you created that space for folks. You did that! So inspiring. Now, to pivot a bit: what is your favorite beer your brewery has ever brewed?

CH: My favorite beer changes every month, sometimes a couple times per month. I do a new beer release every week which has added up to over hundreds of different beers. I feel like I would be a bad mother if I chose a favorite!

WFYB: Ha! We feel you on that one — I love that you’re continuously creating (and nurturing) new brews!

LET’S TALK COMMUNITY & INCLUSIVITY

WFYB: How does your brewery support the local community?

CH: By donating to causes close to my heart. A lot of baskets with gift cards for raffles, I help Girl Scouts sell more cookies, and donate pint nights to local animal shelters which usually results in a couple of adoptions.

WFYB: How do you foster a supportive and inclusive work culture within your brewery team?

CH: 

• Open Communication
• Diversity and Inclusion Training
• Equal Opportunities
• Celebrate Diversity
• Support Work-Life Balance
• Zero Tolerance for Discrimination
• Leadership Commitment

WFYB: Is there anything else you’d like to share with the Work For Your Beer audience?

CH: Just that I love what I do and I’m so grateful to my customers and my community for supporting me enough to keep me going. Cheers and thank you!

WFYB: No, thank YOU! You rock so hard!

A huge round of applause to Charlene Honcik for sharing her remarkable journey and insights with us. Get out and visit Badass Backyard Brewing, experience the warmth of their community, and savor the fantastic brews crafted with love and dedication. 

Let’s raise a toast to Badass Backyard Brewing and to all the trailblazing women-owned breweries out there — here’s to breaking stereotypes, fostering inclusivity, and enjoying phenomenal beer together! Cheers!