She Connects BHAM Businesses, Brews & Babes
Whether she's helping local businesses tell their story through Iron City Social's marketing services or cheering on Birmingham's thriving craft beer scene, Kayla Stinnett knows the city's greatest asset isn't a place at all. It's the people who make it feel like home. Image: Deborah Michelle Photography
Some people collect hobbies. Kayla Stinnett builds communities. From leading her high school’s 4-H chapter to founding the first National Society of Leadership and Success campus organization at the University of North Alabama, she‘ ha‘s always found ways to create opportunities for others. Today, she helps Birmingham’s small businesses tell their stories through her marketing firm, Iron City Social, advocates for inclusion in the local craft beer scene as President of the Birmingham Pink Boots Society, and helps lead the Beermingham Babes. And for Kayla, the goal is always the same: helping people connect, collaborate, and thrive.
How did Iron City Social come about?
Iron City Social came out of a simple belief: every business has a story, and what matters is how you tell it. I saw so many incredible local businesses doing amazing work, but struggling to communicate their value online. I launched Iron City Social to help bridge that gap and support the small businesses that put the “magic” in the Magic City.
You admit you aren’t a fan of networking, but you’re a big fan of community. How does that philosophy inform your work?
I think it’s easy to fall into a routine where you’re doing things mechanically rather than passionately. And I’ve found that’s especially true when it comes to networking. Too often, networking feels like competition instead of connection. That’s why, rather than simply “networking,” My best advice is to genuinely care about people and find a business community that works for you.
In the more than nine years I’ve been running Iron City Social, the biggest difference-maker hasn’t been a marketing tactic or business strategy. It’s been building real relationships, caring about my clients’ success as much as my own, and showing up for people consistently.
How did you first get involved professionally with the local brewery scene?
Years ago, before Cahaba Brewing Co. became a client of Iron City Social, I attended the Craft Brewers Conference with their production team. It’s an annual gathering that brings together beverage professionals from across the country.
That experience showed me not only how vast the world of craft beer really is, but also how many women, queer people, and people of color were working to make the industry more inclusive. I wanted to be part of that movement! Since then, I’ve joined Beermingham Babes, started the Birmingham chapter of Pink Boots Society, and worked alongside breweries and beverage brands across the country.
How does the Pink Boots Society help underrepresented folks in the fermented beverages industry?
The Pink Boots Society not only helps people find pathways into the industry but also fosters community every step of the way. Our goal in Birmingham is to provide support to local female and non-binary individuals in craft beer in a variety of ways, from education to camaraderie.
As of now, we’re focused on bringing the Great BHM Dog-Off back for a second year. It’s a hot dog fest featuring samples from Birmingham’s favorite restaurants and home cooks. Events like this help fund our educational events and trips!
How has your own craft brewery venture, StellaTripp, shaped you as an entrepreneur?
StellaTripp taught me a lot about what it takes to be an entrepreneur! Opening a business takes a whole lot of tenacity, grit, dedication, and a loss of sleep that’s (hopefully) balanced by passion for the game. Sometimes you can do everything right and still face challenges that are completely outside of your control. The tariffs are a prime example.
Craft beer was already operating on tight margins, but the tariffs only added further chaos to an industry already strained. Tariffs and trade policies are sharply increasing the cost of packaging and imported ingredients, forcing smaller, independent breweries to raise prices at a time of market oversaturation and declining overall consumption.
Simply put, it’s more important now than ever to get out and support your local craft beer scene!
Can you tell us about Beermingham Babes and how readers can get involved?
Beermingham Babes started with a group of women who genuinely loved craft beer but found it difficult to find community in a space that wasn’t created with them in mind. Today, it’s grown into a Facebook group with over 1.4K members, hosting monthly events throughout the Birmingham metro area.
We create space for females to explore local breweries, make new friends, and learn more about craft beer without feeling intimidated. No matter your age, beliefs, or profession, as long as you identify as a woman, you are welcome.
As of now, we have a Tour & Tasting on June 10th at Cahaba Brewing, with Q3 events coming soon! The best way to get involved is to follow us on Instagram or join our Facebook group.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
You’ll usually find me exploring Birmingham’s restaurant scene, attending local events and concerts, traveling, cooking, or spending time with friends. I genuinely enjoy supporting local businesses, so even when I’m technically off the clock, I’m often discovering new places and experiences around the city!
Who or what is inspiring you right now?
I’m inspired by people who are building community, like Ayon Jackson, a nonbinary bartender and performer changing the landscape of the beverage industry here in Birmingham. Or Mary Fehr, who uses her photography not only to bring a little more beauty into an ugly world but also to create space for everyone.
Whether it’s nonprofit leaders, small business owners, artists, or organizers, I’m fascinated by people who see a need and decide to create something that brings others together. Birmingham has so many people doing that work right now, and it’s exciting to watch!
What is your best piece of advice?
My entire life, I’ve lived by the words “Feel the fear, and do it anyway.” Start before you feel ready. Apply to the job even if you think you’re underqualified. Raise your hand for the opportunity. Ask the question even if you think it’s dumb. And agree to be featured as a “FACE of Birmingham” even if you think you aren’t.
So many people wait until everything is perfect before taking action, but momentum comes from movement. Fear is normal, but don’t let that fear rule your life.
What is your ideal Birmingham beer crawl itinerary?
I would start with Cahaba Brewing Co. with an Oka Uba IPA — a half pour so I could pace myself. Then, I’d hop on a scooter and follow the rotary trail to Birmingham District Brewing Company to try one of their sour beers. They’re using a new process that lies outside of kettle souring, which I love! From there, I’d walk over to Hop City, where I’d get a pour of the Jackalope Bearwalker. I’m very excited that we can finally support this Tennessee-born, woman-owned brewery here in Alabama!
Pro Tip: Always ask the bartender what their favorite beer is right now. I’ve discovered so many styles I’ve loved because of this!
LIGHTNING ROUND!
Favorite *new* Birmingham brew? Whip-Pale Ale by Cahaba Brewing Co.
Last delicious local meal? Bocca’s Pasta Happy Hour
Favorite place to vacation? Mentone, AL
Your go-to gift to give? Chocolatá Chocolate
Favorite recent TV show binge? Abbott Elementary
Book(s) on your bedside table? Long Eye by Kwoya Fagin Maples and Synchronicity by C.G. Jung
Three things you can’t live without? My passport, my camera roll, and my Google calendar.
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Birmingham women are doing inspiring work. Meet more of them over at our FACES archives!
Katie Leigh Matthews
A Birmingham native, Katie is a lifelong waterfall chaser and is passionate about the outdoors. She also loves connecting with remarkable women in the Birmingham community and bringing their stories to life. Katie has been writing professionally for over six years; you can find more of her work at Moms.com and Islands.com.