In this episode of What It Takes, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Rhonda Kallman, a true pioneer in the craft beverage industry. From co-founding The Boston Beer Company—home of Samuel Adams—to launching Boston Harbor Distillery, Rhonda Kallman has been breaking barriers in a male-dominated field for nearly 40 years.
She shares how she fought for credibility, built industry-shaping brands, and overcame regulatory challenges to keep pushing forward. This conversation is packed with entrepreneurial wisdom, leadership insights, and inspiration for women in business.
If you’re an entrepreneur or someone who loves craft beer and spirits, this episode is a must-listen!
Who is Rhonda Kallman?
Rhonda Kallman is a trailblazer in the alcohol beverage industry. She co-founded The Boston Beer Company in 1984, helping launch Samuel Adams, one of America’s most successful craft beers.
Later, she founded Boston Harbor Distillery, where she continues her legacy of innovation and craftsmanship in the spirits industry.
Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades:
- Named one of INC Magazine’s “25 Entrepreneurs We Love”
- Featured in the documentary “Beer Wars”
- Recipient of the Maverick Award from Beer Business Daily
Despite these accomplishments, Rhonda Kallman faced countless barriers as a woman in the industry. In this episode, she reveals how she broke those barriers and created a lasting impact in craft beverages.
“People ask me all the time, what’s it like being a woman in a man’s world? My response is usually, I don’t know what it’s like being a man. But I do know that it’s exciting, and it’s about staying true to yourself.”
Rhonda Kallman Breaking Barriers in the Alcohol Industry
1. Overcoming Challenges as a Woman in Craft Beer & Spirits
Rhonda Kallman shares the difficulties she faced breaking barriers in the beer and spirits industry. Early in her career, women weren’t being hired for beer sales or leadership roles.
Instead of letting that stop her, she built her own path.
“I made a lot of people a lot of money, and that’s when they started listening to me.”
She also focused on bringing other women into the industry. By the time she left Boston Beer Company, 55% of the sales team was female—a rare accomplishment in a traditionally male-dominated space.
2. Resilience: Pushing Forward Through Setbacks
Rhonda Kallman’s career is a masterclass in perseverance. From launching a business right before 9/11 to battling the FDA over caffeinated beer, she has faced massive challenges.
“Life is hard. That’s it. But I’ve learned to dance through the adversity and keep going as long as I still have options.”
One of her toughest moments was when the FDA banned caffeinated beer, shutting down her company, New Century Brewing. Instead of giving up, Rhonda pivoted to craft spirits and launched Boston Harbor Distillery.
“When life hands you lemons, you make whiskey.”
Her story proves that true success comes from adaptability and persistence.
3. Building a Legacy at Boston Harbor Distillery
At Boston Harbor Distillery, Rhonda is focused on creating high-quality spirits while educating consumers about the craft. She believes transparency and integrity should be at the core of the alcohol industry.
“I want people to know what goes into the bottle. That’s the most important thing, especially with alcohol—you need to know what you’re putting in your body.”
Her goal is to leave a lasting legacy by celebrating Boston’s rich history and pushing the boundaries of craft spirits.
“I’m building a legacy company for Boston—something that makes Bostonians proud. It’s taking everything I’ve got, but I’m committed to it.”
What It Takes: Advice for Women Entrepreneurs
At the end of the episode, Rhonda Kallman shares what it takes for women to break barriers in male-dominated industries:
✅ Believe in yourself. “You have to first believe in yourself and your abilities. Take care of yourself, because frankly, no one else will.”
✅ Follow your passion. “You have to do something you love. There has to be a unique selling proposition—something that sets you apart.”
✅ Be prepared for sacrifices. “You can have it all, but it won’t be perfect. And that’s okay.”
✅ Find joy in what you do. “I want to spend my time with people and things that give me joy. That’s what it’s all about.”
Her journey is proof that breaking barriers requires resilience, innovation, and determination.
Where to Find Rhonda Kallman & Boston Harbor Distillery
Want to support Rhonda and experience her craft spirits? Here’s where to find her:
🌎 Website: BostonHarborDistillery.com
📍 Visit: Boston Harbor Distillery (or check them out at Logan Airport, Terminal E!)
📲 Instagram: @bostonharbordistil
📩 LinkedIn: Boston Harbor Distillery
Listen to the Full Episode
🎧 Listen Now: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/82330e92-f9b5-409c-81b2-ba8855df2eef/
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Final Thoughts
Rhonda Kallman breaking barriers in the alcohol industry is a story of perseverance, leadership, and fearless innovation. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a craft beverage lover, or someone looking for motivation, her journey is packed with powerful lessons on overcoming adversity and building something meaningful.
What was your biggest takeaway from this episode? Let us know in the comments!
