We’re looking forward to introducing you to Mitchell Cooley & Richard Freshwater. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Mitchell & Richard, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
That we are all competing against each other (we are) but the objective we all follow is the same. Raising up glasses to the breweries/companies/owners/workers all down the line that bring us what we value in craft beer. We all want to support this business and talking about really helps all of us learn how to discuss beer, enjoy flavors, and reason with each other about our differing palates or tastes.
1. People assume we’re “just a beer review show.”
Many could think The Foamy Heads is only about tasting beers, when in reality we are building conversations around beer culture, community, personality, and the human stories behind breweries, craft creators, and the beverage industry.
2. They think we’re trying to be formal critics or experts.
Our entire identity is built on authenticity, relatability, and honest reactions—not expert scoring or technical breakdowns. People who haven’t listened often miss that our value is the vibe, not a rating scale.
3. Some assume the show is regional only.
While Nashville and Tennessee breweries play a big part, our content covers a broad spectrum of drinks, creators, and stories from many places—not just local taprooms.
4. Listeners may not realize how diverse the topics are.
We don’t just talk about beer. Our episodes dive into sake, cocktails, ciders, seltzers, cigars, food pairing, culture, and behind-the-scenes interviews. Many don’t realize how much variety the show offers.
5. People sometimes underestimate the production and planning involved.
From securing guests to researching breweries, preparing questions, scheduling, editing, and marketing—there’s a lot that goes into delivering a polished, engaging podcast. On the surface, it may look like “two people chatting over beers,” but it’s far more intentional even though we don’t typically showcase that loudly enough.
6. They might think the business side is secondary (it is, but isn’t).
Podcasting, branding, interviews, industry relationships, events, and sponsorship conversations all require strategy. People often overlook how much business development goes into sustaining and growing a show like ours.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
What Makes The Foamy Heads Podcast Special
The Foamy Heads Podcast stands out because it captures the experience of two everyday craft-beer enthusiasts turning their genuine passion into a show. Instead of approaching beer with pretension or technical jargon, the hosts focus on honest reactions, real conversation, and the enjoyment of discovering new drinks.
Authentic, Casual Style
The tone of the show is relaxed and conversational, making listeners feel like they’re hanging out with friends over a drink. The hosts don’t posture as experts; that’s the guests job. We mention what surprises us and what doesn’t land for us. This authenticity is a major part of the podcast’s appeal.
Wide Variety of Drinks and Topics
While craft beer is the core, the show often explores whiskey, sake, ciders, seltzers, cocktails, and even cigars or food pairings. This variety gives the podcast broader range than a typical beer-only review show and keeps episodes fresh.
Focus on Community and Local Breweries
The Foamy Heads often highlight the people behind the beer—brewers, brewery owners, and industry insiders. They showcase the culture and community of breweries, particularly around Nashville and the southern U.S., providing listeners with stories and insights they won’t get from larger, more commercial beer podcasts.
Interviews and Behind-the-Scenes Conversations
Many episodes go beyond tasting to explore brewing processes, brand stories, and the perspectives of those working in the industry. These interviews give the podcast depth and help bridge the gap between beer fans and the individuals who make the craft scene what it is.
Approachable for a Wide Audience
The podcast is a good fit for casual drinkers, newcomers to craft beer, and seasoned fans alike. Because the tone is honest and unpretentious, listeners don’t need technical knowledge to follow along or enjoy the discussion.
Consistent and Long-Running
The show has been active for years, producing episodes on a regular basis. Topics range from tastings to brewery visits to festival coverage, giving listeners plenty of variety and a large catalog to explore.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
A warm beer can break the bond. A nice cold beer can restore it. If they like beer. I’m not sure otherwise.
Is there something you miss that no one else knows about?
As a podcast, we miss being able to flush it out more. The work culture demands certain hours be met and the majority of our life is spent doing mundane tasks for companies who “earn more beers” than we will ever be able to talk about on this independent show.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
A beer, cigar, or similar shared indulgence acts as a kind of great equalizer. When people come together over something they enjoy, it opens the door for genuine conversation, no matter their background or walk of life. As long as both sides are present, relaxed, and sharing the moment, meaningful connection becomes possible.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If immortality were real, what would you build?
A brewery. It’s a shelter, it provides food and beer. Beer can be both food and drink, but why not house both under one roof and be able to create both in the same space, forever? Let’s go!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thefoamyheads.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/thefoamyheads
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/foamyheads
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/foamyheads
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHFpgI2ruN2Kli7G803Nnjg
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/show/2lcTXdrq51ZeCEbcJTv4Dz
https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/2e62774b-fc15-4520-aa15-25474a4c8e2a/the-foamy-heads-podcast
https://www.threads.com/@thefoamyheads
Image Credits
Steve West – https://stevewestphoto.com/
