The state of craft beer in Wisconsin is rapidly changing and steadily improving. At this point, it’s impossible to document everything that’s happening in Milwaukee brewing and in the other microbreweries spread throughout the state. That didn’t stop Matthew Janzen from trying. The author and photographer took his interest in beer to the next level when he quit his job and took it upon himself to visit dozens of breweries, fields, and other facilities that work in concert to shape the reputation of Wisconsin brewing. Janzen combined the images, interviews, and information he collected into his first book, State Of Craft Beer.

Between stops on his book tour of Wisconsin libraries, Janzen came to Milwaukee Record headquarters to talk about what led to his decision to take on the daunting task of capturing the story of the state’s brewing scene, ways things have changed since the book’s release, the economic impact beer has in Wisconsin, and what’s next for him.

This episode is brought to you by Surly Brewing, a Minnesota-based brewery that just released its seasonal double IPA, Abrasive Ale. Music comes courtesy of Piles (“Blue Glue”) and Ravi/Lola (“Teach Her”). Subscribe to On The Record via iTunes or Stitcher (for free!).