Shaun O’Sullivan
How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?
After several career changes in my twenties—from being a photographer for a local Los Angeles weekly covering music and politics, to working as a CNN assignment desk editor, and then as a legal clerk at a high-powered corporate law firm—I found my passion in homebrewing, with the goal of one day opening my own brewpub. Discovering my destiny and community within craft beer has been incredible, and I still can't believe I get paid to do this.
Why do you judge at the World Beer Cup? What does judging at the World Beer Cup mean to you?
I often tell aspiring beer judges that becoming a judge at the World Beer Cup can make you a better brewer and person. The experience involves interacting with fellow international beer judges, honing the skills of listening and being open to discussion. It's a humbling experience that requires judges to set aside their egos, as we all strive toward the common goal of recognizing the best beers.
