This is a part of a continuing series of Q&As with members of the brewing community from across the US. Brewer Magazine will share business and personal insights from Brewmasters, Head Brewers, Brewing Managers, Sales Directors, QCQA Managers and others each weekend to help you get to know each other better in the industry and learn more to better develop your own brand.
Kelly Montgomery, Co-Owner/Head Brewer, Third Eye Brewing — Cincinnati, Ohio
BREWER: What inspired you to start your brewery, and how has your original vision evolved over time?
MONTGOMERY: Third Eye Brewing started with a simple idea. Build a place where creativity, community, and quality beer come together. We wanted the freedom to explore every corner of the craft, from crisp traditional lagers to big, bold adjunct stouts without ever being confined to one style or approach. That vision has evolved as we’ve grown. What began as a local taproom dream has expanded into multi-state distribution, award-winning beers, and a team that pushes innovation every day. Our mission, “Live Life. Do Good. Drink Beer.” remains at the heart of everything we do. The scale has grown, the ambition has grown, but the purpose is still the same. Make great beer that brings people together..
BREWER: What has been your most successful strategy for navigating challenges like rising ingredient costs or economic downturns?
MONTGOMERY: Adaptability and transparency have been essential in navigating rising ingredient costs and economic uncertainty. We continuously review our recipes, sourcing, and production schedules to protect both quality and margins. Investing in efficiency through upgraded equipment and refining our processes has also made a meaningful impact. Equally important is our focus on customer satisfaction and creating the best possible guest experience, especially with so many brewery options available today. Strong distributor partnerships and clear internal communication ensure that every touchpoint, from the beer we brew to the way it reaches consumers, upholds our standards. The craft beer landscape is always shifting, and our ability to pivot quickly while keeping the customer at the center of every decision remains one of our greatest strengths.
BREWER: In the face of an evolving craft beer landscape, what significant changes have you noticed, and how has your brewery adapted to remain relevant?
MONTGOMERY: The most significant change in the craft beer landscape has been the broad diversification of consumer tastes. While IPAs continue to be popular, we’re seeing growing demand for Lagers, lower-ABV session beers, NA offerings, and even THC seltzers, alongside flavor-driven styles. To stay relevant, we’ve intentionally expanded our portfolio to reflect this shift — maintaining our award-winning core beers while innovating into new categories that meet drinkers where their preferences are headed. Beyond the liquid itself, we’ve also focused on strengthening our presence through wider distribution, community engagement, and strategic collaborations, ensuring Third Eye stays visible, accessible, and connected to beer lovers across multiple states.
BREWER: What are you sippin’ on right now from your brewery that you really enjoy?
MONTGOMERY: Lately I’ve been reaching for Higher Consciousness, our Scottish Wee Heavy. It hits the spot this time of year — deep, malty, and warming. One of those beers you really want to slow down with and enjoy.
BREWER: What trends in the craft beer industry do you think are worth investing in over the next few years?
MONTGOMERY: The trends worth investing in over the next few years point toward a more intentional and lifestyle-driven craft beer experience. Drinkers are leaning into clean Lagers, sessionable and lower-ABV beers, high-quality NA options, lighter fruited styles, and THC-infused beverages, choices that fit into a wide range of moments. At the same time, our fans continue to show us that the big, bold, and crazy beers we’re known for aren’t going anywhere. There’s still huge excitement for expressive pastry beers, barrel-aged releases, and high-gravity creations that deliver a full sensory experience. All of this aligns perfectly with our motto: Live Life. Do Good. Drink Beer. For us, it means crafting beverages that elevate everyday life. Whether someone wants something light and easy or a beer worthy of a special occasion. It’s about giving people options that feel right for their moment, while staying true to the creativity and craftsmanship that define us. As the industry evolves, we’re focused on innovating with purpose while keeping the full spectrum of flavors alive, from the subtle to the outrageous. Breweries that embrace this balance will be best positioned for the future.
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