Paul Shim's journey from music education to the heart of Rochester's brewery scene reveals a path of passion, community and finding one's true calling.
Beer enthusiast and photographer Paul Shim embarked on a journey that took him from the halls of academia to the bustling world of craft brewing. His story is one of serendipity, passion and a deep-rooted connection to his hometown. We sat down with Paul to dive into his path of self-discovery, from his humble beginnings in Connecticut to his pivotal role in shaping Rochester's vibrant brewery scene.
Q: What led you to Rochester, and how did you get involved in the local brewery scene?
A: I'm originally from Connecticut, but I ended up in Rochester because my wife is from Henrietta. We met in grad school at Ithaca College, got married and decided to move closer to family. I've always been into craft beer, especially since the early 2010s, even before it became a big trend. When we were in Ithaca, I started homebrewing, which sparked my interest even more. Combining my passion for beer with my background in music education, I eventually transitioned into managing a taproom at Fifth Frame and working as a cellar man at the brewery.
“Even before moving here permanently, our trips to Rochester were always about supporting local breweries and sharing those experiences online. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the friendly and inclusive nature of the Rochester beer scene.”
Q: What sets the Greater Rochester brewery scene apart from other cities you've lived in?
A: The Greater Rochester brewery scene is vibrant and diverse, with a lot of great breweries spread out across different neighborhoods. What I love is that you can find a beer you'll like in almost every brewery you visit. Plus, the community here is fantastic. There's a genuine camaraderie among beer enthusiasts and professionals alike, which makes the experience even more enjoyable.
Q: Can you share a standout experience or memory that made you feel connected to Rochester?
A: One of the first things we did after moving here was attend the Flower City Beer Fest at the Public Market. It was late summer, our house was in chaos from moving, but going to that festival felt like a quintessential Rochester experience. Also, before we moved, we attended the Rochester Brew Beer Expo on Gregory Street. It was like a giant block party, and it really showcased the city's love for craft beer.
Q: How do you envision the future of the brewery scene in Greater Rochester?
A: While there's been some consolidation in the industry, there's also been a lot of new openings, which is promising. I think the key to the scene's continued growth is accessibility. Neighborhoods like the South Wedge have undergone revitalization, attracting more people to explore and enjoy what the area has to offer. As long as breweries continue to innovate and cater to diverse tastes, I see the scene flourishing.
Q: How has your experience been supported by the Greater Rochester community since moving here?
A: Surprisingly, I've met many people through Instagram who share the same passion for beer and community. Even before moving here permanently, our trips to Rochester were always about supporting local breweries and sharing those experiences online. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the friendly and inclusive nature of the Rochester beer scene.
Q: Anything else you'd like to share about your experience in Rochester?
A: I'm a simple guy who loves beer and photography. Rochester has provided me with the perfect backdrop to pursue these passions. From capturing the essence of local breweries to exploring new culinary delights, it's been an enriching journey. And hey, if anyone wants to grab a beer and talk tech or photography, count me in!
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