437: Parting Cheers with CEO Michelle McGrath of the ACA

437: Parting Cheers with CEO Michelle McGrath of the ACA

Author: Ria Windcaller: Award-winning Cidermaker, Podcaster | Craft Beer Columnist December 11, 2024 Duration: 54:05

After 8 Years at the helm Michelle McGrath is switching gears

Cider-Chat-Ep387-Michelle-McGrath-CEO-American-Cider-Association
Michell McGrath

Michelle McGrath, CEO of the American Cider Association (ACA), reflects on her impactful leadership, the growth of the cider industry, and her next chapter. In this episode, Michelle shares insights into her journey, upcoming transitions, and the exciting plans for CiderCon 2024 in Chicago.

Key Milestones at ACA

  • Membership Growth: ACA membership has significantly increased during Michelle's tenure.
  • CiderCon Success: The premier U.S. cider conference continues to thrive, with growing attendance and international collaborations.
  • Sustainability Focus: Initiatives that support cider makers, orchardist/farmers and sustainability were central to ACA's strategy.

What's Next for Michelle

Michelle will be transitioning to Salmon Safe as Columbia Basin Program Director. This nonprofit focuses on land use practices that protect watershed health and salmon populations. Her passion for collaboration and supporting farmers continues to guide her work.

Up Coming Highlights for CiderCon 2025

  • Chilean cider tastings and sessions on the country's apple heritage.
  • A session on soil health by Ashley Lindsay, a pomological expert from Oregon State University.
  • Tastings featuring Porter's Perfection cider and quince cider varieties.
  • Networking opportunities and workshops for cider makers worldwide.

A Call to Action for the Cider Community

Michelle encourages more diversity and representation in cider leadership roles, especially for women. She invites anyone interested in joining the ACA board or participating in industry initiatives to step forward and work with the board of directors.

Contact Info for the American Cider Association

Mentioned in this Cider Chat


There’s a whole world in a glass of cider, and Cider Chat is your invitation to explore it. Hosted by award-winning cidermaker and writer Ria Windcaller, this podcast travels far beyond the bottle to meet the people who make the global cider culture so vibrant. Each conversation is a journey-you might find yourself in a heritage orchard learning the history of forgotten apple varieties, in a bustling taproom with an importer explaining regional traditions, or in a kitchen with a chef pairing cider with unexpected foods. The discussions get into the delightful nuances, too, whether that’s the semantics of what we even call this drink or how the concept of terroir translates from soil to sip. It’s not just about production; it’s about the community, the travel, and the stories that fermentation unlocks. This is for anyone curious about the craft, history, and sheer enjoyment of fermented apple juice in all its forms. So, pour a glass and settle in for a series that feels like a wide-ranging, informative, and genuinely good-humored chat with friends who happen to be obsessed with cider. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for every effervescent, tart, or sweet sip, hearing directly from the growers, makers, and enthusiasts who are shaping this drink’s exciting present and future.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Cider Chat
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