by Dean Kallas, Grocery Category Manager
Where did you grow up?
I am a true Milwaukeean. I grew up on the northwest side of Milwaukee, but was fortunate enough to be a part of the chapter 220 integration program that bussed black and brown students into suburban school districts. It was because of this program I was able to see my community through a different lens and started seeing the disparities. There were different levels of access created for different populations of people especially when it came to food options, this troubled my heart. It’s always been my mission to help others, bring people together and heal hearts for the betterment of our community.
How did you get interested in making kombucha?
What started as a way to self heal from a diagnosis of pre-diabetes and severe acid reflux has exploded into an entire movement. After trying some on market brands and not enjoying the experience, I almost stopped drinking kombucha, but the benefits superseded the taste and smell. When I saw how my wellness was changing and the fog was clearing as a result of a better gut it was a no-brainer. I had to share this with my community. I just wanted to do it my way. I wanted to create amazing flavor profiles and give a great sensory experience all while offering a low-sugar alternative.
How would you best describe what kombucha is to someone who has never tried it?
Kombucha is a blend of green and black teas that have been fermented. It’s a bubbly clean gut happy elixir full of probiotics and enzymes to protect and promote a healthy digestive system. However, all kombucha is not created equally. Soul Brew Kombucha just happens to be low in sugar and delicious all while being good for you too.
What are the medicinal benefits from drinking kombucha on a regular basis?
Kombucha promotes a healthy lifestyle. If drunk on an empty stomach in the morning it can assist with balancing out the digestive tract and has been said to assist those with type 2 diabetes. The antioxidants in kombucha can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood glucose levels. It supports a healthy immune system by combating bad bacteria with good bacteria and winning.
Did you encounter any hurdles getting your company up and running in the highly competitive beverage industry?
Any new brand has hurdles, so as a new black-owned kombucha brand in a competitive market I’ve definitely battled with systemic barriers, cultural perceptions, and access to resources. We are small so budgeting for market penetration, creating strategies for consumer acceptance, and then keeping up with the competition all created/creates obstacles. However, my faith is strong and my passion keeps me sane as we continue to look to the future and align ourselves with people and resources that will foster growth and success.
Can you describe the process for deciding what flavors to make your kombucha?
Crafting a diverse and culturally resonant lineup of kombucha flavors is a thoughtful and intentional process for our brand. Rooted in real-life stories and a commitment to connecting people to the rich tapestry of our preventative culture, our flavor development strategy is a dynamic journey. Whether it’s drawing from traditional ingredients, historical events, or artistic expressions, the goal is to create a bridge between the beverage and community. With flavors like “Hot girl/boy summer,” with a profile made from jalapeño (vitamins A and C), local basil from Hundred Acre (blood flow/cholesterol), strawberries (antioxidants), pineapple (fights inflammation) and mint (aids digestion), we connect it for taste, healing, and culture.
What is the best part of your work?
The best part of my job is knowing that everyday I have the unique opportunity to celebrate culture, contribute to the local community, and be a catalyst for positive change and building legacy for my own family. Being a change agent in my community and coming up with new flavor experiences is definitely the low-sugar icing on the cake.
What are your favorite ingredients to work with and why?
My favorite ingredient is ginger. As simple as it sounds, this amazing root vegetable was a catalyst to assist with my health issues when starting Soul Brew Kombucha. It aids bloat, nausea, and has even been said to help lower stress causing compounds.
When did you start making your kombucha? What was the inspiration behind them?
July 2018 is when I brewed my very first batch. After hearing about its wonderful healing properties and actually seeing them in action, I just wanted to create a flavor that was less offensive and could be appreciated by a novice.
Which of all your creations are you most proud of?
To date, I am most proud of our canned Black Lives Matter (BLM). Not only does the can depict a scene that my son and I are in from 2020 alongside Bucks players, coaches, ownership, management, and staff took part in a protest march, but it was also the first “social” flavor we developed. We were able to make a strong statement with a sweet refrain.
What motivates you to keep creating?
This journey has been amazing so far. The best rewards are the testimonials, emails, and comments made about how Soul Brew Kombucha improved their lives or how before SBK they didn’t like kombucha, but now they have added it into their life. Having the opportunity to positively affect the lives of others keeps me motivated.
What line of work were you in before starting Soul Brew?
Before the development of SBK, I was a music teacher as well as a performer. I taught music in the Milwaukee school system for 7 years and private voice for over 20. I have performed for Bucks games, at the Milwaukee Repertory theater in the Whitney Houston tribute, sung lead with Eddie Butts, and even been a signed artist. I definitely believe that dreams never expire. All too often CEOs give up their childhood dreams. I choose to balance the two. I have some amazing shows lined up for the 2024 season with the Bel Canto Chorus and the River Arts Main Stage.
Do you have any new products in development?
Yes! 2024 is our year of product expansion!! We are increasing our line of canned kombucha to create a 4-pack Rhythm Variety Pack (GMP, Teacher’s Aid, BLM, and Cherry Bomb). We have some other really awesome creations in the pipeline, I just can’t tell all of the goods. You will just have to stay tuned.
Consult with your healthcare practitionier before making changes to your diet.