50: 26.2 Brew and Beyond: Shelley Smith with Leadership Lessons from the Brewing Supply Chain

She Supply Chains Podcast
Oct 26
2 min read

Updated: Nov 7

What happens when a love for science meets a passion for beer — and a drive to challenge the status quo? 🍻

In this episode of She Supply Chains, we sit down with Shelley Smith, an accomplished leader in brewing and one of only 28 Master Cicerones in the world, to explore her remarkable journey from studying animal science to leading R&D at the Boston Beer Company. Shelley’s path wasn’t linear, but it’s a powerful example of how curiosity, courage, and a willingness to say “yes” to new challenges can lead to unexpected — and delicious — destinations. Today, she channels her scientific background into driving innovation in one of the most dynamic corners of the supply chain: beer.

Throughout the conversation, Shelley takes us inside the world of beer research and development, where creativity and precision collide. She explains how her team experiments with ingredients, tests new brews, and listens to consumer feedback to craft beers that resonate with drinkers everywhere. From understanding the critical role yeast plays in flavor to managing the complexities of supply chain planning, Shelley gives listeners a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring a new beer to life. One of her proudest achievements, the creation of the 26.2 Brew designed for marathon runners, perfectly captures her blend of scientific insight and passion for connecting beer to the communities who enjoy it.

But Shelley’s story is about much more than brewing — it’s about breaking barriers and redefining what leadership looks like in a traditionally male-dominated field. As a woman in the beer industry, she shares candid reflections on mentorship, personal growth, and the importance of advocating for yourself. Her journey to becoming a Master Cicerone, a distinction held by fewer than 30 people worldwide, is a testament to her discipline and dedication. Shelley also talks about how the beer industry is evolving — from embracing inclusivity to exploring non-alcoholic innovations — and why collaboration, continuous learning, and curiosity remain at the heart of meaningful progress.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who’s ever been inspired by the intersection of science, creativity, and leadership. Shelley’s insights go far beyond the brewery; they remind us that innovation often begins with the courage to challenge the norm, stay curious, and never stop improving the process — or the product.