DiscoverMillionaire UniversityStarting a Beverage Business? Recipe to Distribution Selling Handcrafted Spirits | Alek Szczupak
Starting a Beverage Business? Recipe to Distribution Selling Handcrafted Spirits | Alek Szczupak

Starting a Beverage Business? Recipe to Distribution Selling Handcrafted Spirits | Alek Szczupak

Update: 2025-10-10
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#623 Ever wonder what it really takes to launch a handcrafted spirits brand from scratch — without owning your own distillery or a massive marketing budget? In this episode, host Brien Gearin sits down with Alek Szczupak, founder of Broda Beverage Company in Chicago, to share how he transformed a generations-old Polish family recipe into a fast-growing, small-batch vodka brand. Alek dives into the story behind Broda’s authentic, all-natural production process — from zesting lemons by hand to infusing real honey and ginger — and opens up about the challenges of navigating alcohol regulations, finding the right co-packer, and building distribution relationships in a crowded industry. He also reveals how grassroots marketing, local tastings, and one viral TikTok helped Broda gain traction and develop a loyal following. If you’ve ever dreamed of turning a kitchen recipe into a nationally recognized product, this episode will give you a front-row seat to what it really takes!




What we discuss with Alek:


+ Origins of Broda Beverage Company


+ Polish family recipe inspiration


+ Handcrafted vodka with real ingredients


+ Challenges of alcohol licensing and regulation


+ Finding the right co-packer


+ Building distribution and retail partnerships


+ Power of tastings and local marketing


+ Viral TikTok boosting online sales


+ Expanding flavors and product line


+ Lessons for aspiring beverage entrepreneurs




Thank you, Alek!


Check out Broda at DrinkBroda.com.


Follow Alek on Instagram.




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Starting a Beverage Business? Recipe to Distribution Selling Handcrafted Spirits | Alek Szczupak

Starting a Beverage Business? Recipe to Distribution Selling Handcrafted Spirits | Alek Szczupak

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