Craftlab: The Podcast Episode 11 With Mike Frolich, Laughing Sun Brewing

Mike Frohlich’s last name literally means “happy” in German and was part of the inspiration for Laughing Sun Brewing Company’s name. The other part, he says, is the sun: it’s always giving and giving and never asks for anything in return. Mike says the community at his brewery is what makes it a special place to be. “We’ve got walls,” he said, but it’s the people who give their time and their passion to create a community space.

In episode two of our CBC mini-season, we’re excited to chat with Mike Frohlich, owner of Laughing Sun Brewing Company in Bismarck, North Dakota. 

Mike started out in the brewing world in the 90s, but he left it for a state job after graduating from college. Year after year, however, the brewery called his name, and in 2013, he decided to quit his day job and pursue Laughing Sun full time. 

In this episode, we talk about Mike’s founding of and involvement with the North Dakota Brewers Guild, making more than just trendy beers and beverages, and the keys to education in the industry.

Show Notes:

About Laughing Sun Brewing: Founded by Mike Frohlich in 2012, Laughing Sun Brewing Co. was built on the concept of creating not only a great local brewery, but also a place where the local community feels welcome and involved. The brewery’s walls feature the work of local artists, and its stage is open to local musicians, poets, writers, and thinkers with original compositions and ideas. The brewery has also been named “Best Brewery” and voted “Best BBQ” by its community.

About the North Dakota Brewers Guild: The North Dakota Craft Brewers Guild was founded in 2013 to promote craft brewing and to protect the interests of the craft brewing community in North Dakota. Objectives include promoting the highest standards of professional brewing in North Dakota, increasing public awareness and appreciation for the variety and quality of North Dakota craft beer, advocating for state and federal laws that promote Guild Members’ ideals and foster brewery profitability, and providing a forum for discussion, support, and initiatives for the common good of North Dakota’s brewing industry.

Mike’s Book Recommendation:

Designing Great Beers: The Ultimate Guide to Brewing Classic Beer Styles by Ray Daniels