Welcome to the latest episode of Sports & Forks where host Kelly Senyei dives into an engaging conversation with Adrián González, former professional baseball player turned successful entrepreneur. With a career spanning over a decade in Major League Baseball, notably with teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres, Adrián has transitioned into a multifaceted business landscape involving franchises, a cigar line, athletic apparel, and particularly, his burgeoning Calidad Beer brand.

In this episode, Adrián shares insights into his snacking habits during his baseball days, revealing a preference for sunflower seeds, bubble gum and the calming benefit of coffee pouches. The discussion evolves into the vibrant world of his Calidad beer and agua frescas, which blend Mexican and US-grown flavors. Adrián elaborates on expanding his brand, including possible new beer sizes, a non-alcoholic option, and experimenting with hard seltzer flavors.

Transitioning from athlete to entrepreneur, Adrián highlights the educational steps he took, such as enrolling in finance courses, and the impact of his bicultural upbringing on his business ventures. Additionally, Adrián's plans for a Southern California-based Mexican restaurant, emphasizing quality ingredients like homemade tortillas and salsa, are unveiled. Join us as Adrián discusses his professional evolution, love for Mexican cuisine and the exciting future of his businesses.

Timestamped Overview:

00:00 Intro

02:23 Adrián’s upbringing connecting him to foods and flavors

09:23 Quality product, creative founder, future beer plans.

11:03 Mission style reflects California's heritage and history.

16:12 Hard seltzers blend Mexican and US flavors.

18:48 Working from home, planning Mexican restaurant concept.

23:01 Undecided on salsa type, considering green options.

24:02 Pitching business to investors, seeking funding soon.

26:38 Sports & Forks Quick Fire Challenge with Adrián González