Get to know a founder: Mike Weil

Hi there! Welcome to Barly’s Better Beer Blog. We’ll occasionally post fun beer news and educational materials, updates about the app, the company, our team, and stuff like that here. To get us started, here’s an interview with our founding Chief Product Officer, Mike Weil.

What excites you about working on Barly?

I am excited to share the world of craft beer with others, plus learn more about beer myself. I also enjoy designing the app and improving the user interface for a more positive experience.

How did you first get interested in beer?

Towards the end of college I began trying different varieties of beer besides the common light lagers. My friend Nick [a Barly co-founder] helped introduce me to new styles and flavors I had never tried before. Over time, I noticed my palate evolve and I started to appreciate more and more complex beers.

What’s your favorite beer you’ve tried recently? How about an all time favorite?

Recently, Stone Xocoveza Mocha Stout. One of my all time favorite beers is Alesmith Speedway Stout.

What were you up to before founding this company?

Working as a water resources engineer for the State of California and hopefully helping to prevent a massive drought and/or flood.

What do you do for fun?

Traveling, camping, hiking, basketball, live music, comedy shows, pub trivia, and of course drinking and occasionally brewing craft beer.

Can you share a ridiculous story about the founders?

I don’t think I can, but it involves male genitalia and a piñata.

What are you currently working on for the company?

Currently, I am designing a new feature for the app where users can view nearby bars and see what’s on tap, before they even arrive at the bar!