Our Team
Joe Von Bargen, Founder and CEO
"Hey there! I'm Joe, the beer enthusiast and guiding force behind Silbi Brew Works. I'm all about three things: great craft beer, the vibrant vibes of Cincinnati, and the undeniable spirit of Ohio. My journey through the world of craft brewing is as much a part of me as my Ohio roots.
I picked up some pretty cool skills along the way, with a BA in Management from Ohio State (Go Buckeyes!) and an MS in Organizational Leadership from Mount St. Joseph University. But here's the fun part: I dove headfirst into the science of brewing with a certificate from the Master Brewers Association of the Americas. Yes, I can officially nerd out over hops and malts!
At Silbi Brew Works, it's not just about brewing beer; it's about brewing experiences that bring our Ohio community together. Every beer we craft has a story, a bit of Cincinnati charm, and, of course, a dash of my passion for all things brew. So, come on in, grab a pint, and let's celebrate the Ohio way!"
Caitie Von Bargen, CCW and CC
"Meet the real MVP of Silbi Brew Works, my incredible wife, Caitie. While I'm busy brewing up dreams in the brewery, she's our Chief Child Wrangler and Chaos Coordinator. Her superpowers include juggling the whirlwind of our family life, keeping our little ones in line, and ensuring that I can chase my passion for craft beer without tripping over a toy or two.
Caitie’s role might not involve hops and malts, but trust me, her contributions are the secret ingredient to making this dream work. She’s the heart and soul keeping our family's rhythm, allowing me to pour my energy into crafting the perfect brews for you all.
So, when you see me at Silbi Brew Works, remember that behind every great brewer, there's an even greater partner keeping everything afloat. Here's to Caitie, the unsung hero of our brewery adventure!"
Mary Lazarus, CAO and BG
"Introducing the heart and soul behind the scenes at Silbi Brew Works - my mom, Mary Lazarus. She's not just our Chief Administrative Officer, keeping everything in tip-top shape; she's also the beloved Brewery Grandma, a role she embraces with all the warmth and love you'd expect.
Mary's incredible organizational skills keep our business running like a well-oiled machine. Her attention to detail is unmatched, ensuring that every i is dotted and every t is crossed in our administrative world. But it's her role as Brewery Grandma that truly brings a unique charm to Silbi. She brings a sense of family, nurturing, and care to our team and guests alike, making everyone feel right at home.
With her dual role, Mary embodies the essence of our family-centric approach at Silbi Brew Works. Whether she's managing the books or sharing stories and laughs with visitors, her presence adds an extra layer of warmth to our brewery.
Next time you're enjoying a beer at Silbi, and you feel that cozy, at-home vibe, know that it's Mary's magic at work. Here's to the Brewery Grandma, the administrative wizard, and the heart of our Silbi family!"