“Behind the Maker” invites viewers to step into a space that’s all about creativity, craftsmanship, and the people whose passion brings the Pocono Mountains to life.

PTN host, Deanna Fontanez brings viewers along, “Together we’ll explore stories of the people behind some of the amazing things created right here in the Pocono Mountains. Join me as we take a step behind the scenes of the makers who pour their heart into what they do. Today, we’re sitting with Matt, head brewer at Barley Creek Brewing Company."

Known as a community favorite, Barley Creek is a gathering place not just for beer enthusiasts but for locals and visitors alike. Matt Doughty has been part of that family for fourteen years, growing into an integral member of the team. “I had a friend that worked here since the place opened,” he recalls. “She got me an interview with Steph to be a cook. So, I started on the line, and about six months in, the brewer at the time needed help cleaning. He liked my work ethic, took me under his wing, and six months later, he let me brew my first batch of beer. I’ve always been a curious person, so I like to learn new stuff. It was just something so different than anything else I’d done, and that was about thirteen years ago now, and I’ve been doing it ever since.” Over time, Matt has become both a master of his craft and a mentor to others. “My crew now, they want to learn. They’re interested in what they’re doing. And it’s kind of like a family. All my best friends work here,” he says.

Working in a smaller-scale brewery gives Matt freedom to innovate. “I get to experiment a lot. I’ve probably made two hundred different beers since I’ve been here. I try to do four or five experimental ones a year.” Every day, Matt creates something people can taste and enjoy, though the work comes with its challenges. “There’s a little pressure with meeting people’s expectations,” he admits. “We have regulars that have been coming for twenty years. Luckily, they’ve gotten to know me enough, they know we’re just expecting great, so it’ll be great.” Craft beer has grown tremendously in popularity, and for Matt, seeing a customer smile after a first sip is one of the best rewards. His journey is also a family affair, his wife works at the brewery, and even his kids have been part of it. “It’s part of the culture at Barley Creek,” he says. “All three of Steph’s kids have worked here, all three of Trip’s kids have worked here. It’s kind of nice having the whole family here.”

Brewing is a blend of science, art, and sustainability. As Matt explains, “Part of the brewing process is the mash, that’s where we get our color and our sugar and a lot of flavor. It’s mostly barley. We steal all the sugars out of it to make alcohol, but what’s left over, we call spent grain. Instead of throwing it in the dumpster, we give it to a local farmer who feeds his cows with it. Brewers try to be as green as possible.”

Among the hundreds of beers Matt has crafted, a few stand out. “It’d be hard to say one,” he laughs, “but the one we’re brewing today, our Oatmeal Stout, is my favorite stout ever. It should be award-winning. Other than that, the Maibock is probably my favorite of the year.” Some of those creations have indeed earned awards, including the English Pale Ale King Philip’s, brewed in honor of a late friend and fellow brewer. “We win a lot of different awards,” Matt says. “One I’m really proud of is King Philip’s. I brewed that in honor of Timmy Phillips, who was a longtime brewer here. It won Best English Pale Ale in the country the first year we made it, and that means a lot, especially with the meaning behind the beer.” Barley Creek also keeps giving back through its “Brew Good. Do Good.” program, donating a portion of sales each month to rotating charities.

“It’s always amazing to see the heart and soul that goes into the craft of creating something unique here in the Pocono Mountains.”, Deanna shared. Through his dedication, creativity, and community spirit, Matt Doughty continues to brew more than beer, he’s brewing connection, tradition, and pride in the Poconos. Make sure to stop by Barley Creek Brewing Company and try one of his creations!