In this episode, we have an enlightening conversation with Linda Cooley, CEO of Mad River Brewing, the only tribal-owned brewery in the United States, located in Humboldt County, Northern California. Linda shares her unique journey from starting in the beer industry at 21 to leading a brewery owned by the Yurok Tribe, California's largest Native American tribe.
We explore the fascinating history of Mad River Brewing, which has been a staple in the craft beer scene for over 34 years, and how the Yurok Tribe’s acquisition of the brewery has opened new doors for tribal economic development and cultural representation. Linda discusses the importance of balancing business success with the mission to fight stereotypes, tokenization, and misinformation about Native Americans, all while ensuring that the brewery’s products reflect the tribe's values and heritage.
Linda also talks about the brewery’s commitment to sustainability, the challenges of rebranding during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the innovative ways they are bringing awareness to tribal issues through their beer, such as their "Undammed" seltzer, which highlights the tribe’s environmental initiatives.
This episode offers a deep dive into the intersection of craft brewing, indigenous identity, and social impact. Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or interested in the broader implications of tribal-owned businesses, this conversation with Linda Cooley is both inspiring and informative. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you enjoyed this episode!