Meet Sean Cassidy: TennFold Brewing’s New Head Brewer

September 22, 2025

This summer brought big news at TennFold Brewing: Sean Cassidy was announced as the new Head Brewer in July 2025. If you’ve spent time in Nashville’s craft beverage scene, you might recognize Sean from his years at Bearded Iris and Diskin Cider. Now, he’s bringing that blend of technical expertise and creative spark to The Fold — with plans to refresh the beer lineup, explore seasonal flavors, and keep something exciting on tap for every palate. We asked Sean about his brewing journey, the philosophy behind his beers, and what guests can look forward to at TennFold.

Tell us a little about your background and how you ended up at TennFold?

I most recently was Lead Brewer at Bearded Iris (Nashville, TN). It was a fantastic learning experience, as I helped steer production through years of huge growth and change. Prior to that, I was Head Cidermaker at Diskin Cider (Nashville, TN). I helped open their production facility and led the team for 4 years. It is super rewarding for me working at TennFold now, which, as a smaller brewery, offers a lot of creativity and a loyal customer base that is always thirsty to try new offerings!

What does “embrace the mystery” mean in your brewing process?

I can be an “overthinker” at times. I often need to remind myself to control the things that I’m able to, but to let go, trust the process, and “embrace the mystery.” At the end of the day, I just make sugar water; the magic yeast does the rest. I just try to keep getting better at the sugar water part.

tennfold brewing nashville headbrewer sean interview

How do you think about pairing seasonal beers with TennFold’s food menu?

TennFold has such a great reputation for our excellent food program. Pizza is the star player, but the sandwiches, bowls, and barbecue are not to be slept on! The kitchen does a great job of updating the menu with new dishes and seasonal produce. I’m striving to match that energy with a fruited beer program, highlighting fruit varieties that are in season. The most recent one was a Peach Sour for summer, and we will be debuting an autumn fruited beer soon. Similarly, I’m keeping the IPA program fresh. In addition to our year-round IPAs, I’m regularly introducing new hop-forward recipes.

Anything you’re especially excited to brew next?

I’m looking forward to brewing collabs with some of the other excellent breweries here in Nashville! No announcements yet, but some exciting one-offs to come in the near future.

As a musician, do you see parallels between brewing and music?

I definitely see parallels between music and brewing. There is an element of “composition” when designing a recipe that scratches the creative itch for me. Similar to music, we make beer for others. It takes on real meaning when other people enjoy it, while making memories surrounded by friends, family, and good food. Beer and music are both transcendental in that way.

Is there a style you wish more people appreciated — or that you wish you could brew more often?

(As of 8/18/25) We currently have a Schwarzbier, a German-style black lager on tap called “Into the Void.”
It’s a style that you don’t see many commercial examples of. Though near black in color, it is a smooth-flavored lager and only 5% ABV. It’s got light roasty chocolate notes, but a crisp, almost pilsner-like finish.

What do you think makes for a standout brewery experience from the guest’s perspective?

Hospitality is so important. That starts by having a fun, welcoming, energetic space, staffed by people who outwardly care. Keeping the beverage menu stocked with diverse offerings keeps it interesting for everyone. And in the case of TennFold, the stellar food menu brings it all together for a great guest experience.

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Sean’s arrival marks an exciting new chapter at TennFold, where creativity in the brewhouse meets a kitchen known for bold, flavorful dishes. From fresh hop-forward recipes to seasonal fruited beers, he’s setting the tone for what’s on tap. The kitchen is right there with him, rolling out autumn favorites like the Butternut Squash Bowl and Brisket & Chimi Grilled Cheese. With new releases like the Festbier and Swift Decision IPA (shown below), there’s never been a better time to stop by!

And if you bring your Nashville BrewPass, you’ll enjoy ½ off your first pint at TennFold Brewing. Raise a glass, taste what’s new, and join us in welcoming Sean to the team! You can follow his journey on Instagram at @nashbrewersean!