Ep. 13 - Brett VanderKamp, New Holland Brewing Company

Episode 13 - The Details

I met Brett sometime in 1997, while New Holland was just coming into existence.  We were both active members of the Michigan Brewers Guild, and later spent time on the board of directors together.  We’ve bonded over the idea that a company can be the ultimate art project, with limitless opportunities for creativity and ingenuity to shape team vision and values.  Brett is passionate and driven, and the originator of Dragon’s Milk!  We got a chance to sit down over a couple of drinks in Puerto Rico, where we were celebrating 10 year New Holland Anniversaries.  I hope you enjoy this Hatter Day Edition, which is celebrating the breweries 19th Anniversary!

The Drinks: Mojito - DonQ Anejo, Beer Barrel Bourbon

The Music:  “Underground Giver” © and courtesy of Seth Bernard, Why Would You Not Want to Go to There, courtesy of and © Hoots & Hellmouth

Guest Bio:

Brett VanderKamp; Holland, Michigan seemed like an unlikely place to create some of the most innovative beer and spirits in America. But Brett believed that his hometown and the brewing industry were due for shakeups.He was 24 years old when he started New Holland Brewing Company in 1997 in an abandoned factory with his best friend and $10,000. He has spearheaded the company’s growth and innovation since its inception.

Brett has become a leader not only in his industry but in the community as well, serving on various boards including the Holland Chamber of Commerce and its Public Policy Committee. He has been chairman of Jubilee Ministries, a faith- based nonprofit working to revitalize Holland’s most troubled neighborhoods. He is a founding member and past president of the Michigan Brewers Guild (MBG), a trade organization for over 200 small Michigan brewers.  Brett also acted as chairman of the MBG Government Affairs Committee. In 2011, Brett was honored as one of Grand Rapids Business Journal’s “40 Under Forty” business leaders, heralding his dedication to innovation and community. In 2015, he was honored as Michigan West Coast Chamber’s Small Business Person of the Year.

Brett’s entrepreneurial spirit and artistic sensibilities are at the very heart of New Holland. As the original visionary, Brett imagined the path that New Holland pursued to become what they are today. He serves as President, overseeing the corporate and leadership teams, and continuing to forge their path into the future. Brett has two sons, Brayden and Quinn, with his wife Pam. They live in Holland, MI and enjoy family vacations, outdoor sports and Michigan summers.