We caught up with James Kindred, founder of award-winning Big Drop Brewing Co, chatting about everything from his long wait for an autism diagnosis, to brewing five million pints of alcohol-free beer this year!

James how old were you when you were diagnosed or suspected you were autistic?

I was probably around 40 when I began to suspect I might be autistic. I’m still looking at getting an official diagnosis, but my GP has been quite dismissive.

How long have you been waiting for a diagnosis?

Four years now, but I’m hoping to get a referral from my GP using Right to Choose with psychiatry-uk.com. I’m hoping my diagnosis progress moves along soon, my wife has just been diagnosed with ADHD, which took just over a year.

You run an award-winning business, tell us about Big Drop

I started Big Drop with my oldest friend, Rob, back in 2016. We’re dedicated to making on alcohol-free beers. We’re now the most-awarded brewer in the UK, so you could say it’s going rather well! We also brew out in Australia and the USA and we’ll be brewing around five million pints this year!

Do you find being autistic helps you with running a business?

Yes, and no! Some of my traits are good for the focus needed to build a brand, some of my other traits can really get in the way.

What are the positives of being autistic?

I’m very creative, which can be great for both problem-solving and graphic design (I was a graphic designer for about 20 years before setting up Big Drop). Along with problem solving, I tend to think in a very lateral way, which can really help!

What do you do to unwind?

I play guitar, walk the dogs (they’re two labs so need a fair bit of walking) and play on the PS5 when the kids let me.

Do you have any passions?

I really enjoy playing the guitar. I need to get back to how well I used to be able to play. It not only helps me relax but also gives me the headspace to come up with creative ideas.

What three words would you use to describe you?

Big, beardy, not-as-grumpy-as-I-appear.

Do you have a favourite motto?

A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.

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