BEER HISTORY, storytelling + collaborations
A prominent beer and tavern historian, Liz was among the first to explore history through the lens of alcohol. Since the late 1990s, she has studied the ways beer and alcohol have shaped human connection, culture, and urban life. Her research spans countries and continents, and she has collaborated with historians, museums, breweries, and cultural organizations around the world to bring overlooked stories to new audiences through exhibitions, lectures, educational programs, and historic beer collaborations.
As Founder and Executive Director of the Beer Culture Center, Liz leads a cultural institution dedicated to exploring the role beer has played in human history. Her work extends well beyond traditional scholarship and interpretation, partnering with museums, cultural organizations, and breweries to transform research into engaging public experiences through exhibitions, lectures, educational initiatives, and collaborative projects.
By bridging historical research, museum practice, and contemporary beer culture, Liz has helped redefine how museums, breweries, and the public think about beer - not simply as a beverage, but as a meaningful tool for understanding history, culture, society, and one another. Her expertise has been sought by authors, filmmakers, and media producers, serving as a consultant, advisor, and featured expert for historic publications, radio and television programs, and international documentaries, including Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown, Best Bars in America, and productions created for audiences in China, Mexico, and Germany.