From Dance Floors to Brew Floors
With Hackney Church Head Brewer Jacob Hobbs
In this episode of The Beer Rep Chats With, Martin sits down with Jacob, Head Brewer at Hackney Church Brew Co to explore his inspiring path from training as a contemporary dancer to head brewer.
Jacob shares the story behind Hackney Church Brew Co, a London-based independent brewery that’s all about community, creativity, and great beer. He talks about his brewing philosophy, how the team develops new recipes, and what it means to create beers that welcome everyone — from casual drinkers to passionate beer fans.
We also dive into upcoming collaborations, the future brewery move to a new home, the importance of diversity in beer, and advice for home brewers looking to take the next step.
Whether you’re a craft beer lover, a brewer in the making, or just curious about the people behind the beers, this episode gives you a fresh look at the art and community of brewing in East London.
- 39 minutes
- October 13th 2025
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Episode Highlights
- Jacob’s unconventional journey from contemporary dancer to head brewer shows how creativity and passion can shape a career in beer.
- Learn how Hackney Church Brew Co. blends craft, inclusivity, and local connection to create beers for everyone.
- Jacob explains his approach to recipe development, experimentation, and what drives innovation at the brewery.
- Hear about upcoming collabs, the brewery’s new home, and why representation and openness matter in the beer industry.
Jacob says:
“We’ve got a motto that’s beer for all sorts, and I really want that to be true and for people to come into the taproom and have something that’s familiar there, but also have something that is kind of a bit more out there.“
Why This Episode Matters
This episode offers an inspiring look at how creativity and community intersect in craft beer. Jacob’s story highlights the power of diverse backgrounds in shaping the brewing world and provides real insights for anyone passionate about beer — from home brewers to professionals.
At The Beer Rep, we’re more than just a store—we’re here to tell the stories behind the beers and support the people who make them. Thanks for tuning in and supporting independent breweries along the way.
👉 New episodes of The Beer Rep Chats With… drop regularly. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a fellow beer lover!
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