Chaad Thomas

Ann Arbor native Chaad Thomas didn’t just stumble into the wine world; he built a career from the dining room floor up. What began nearly 30 years ago as a realization that wine knowledge was the key to professional excellence quickly transformed into a lifelong pursuit of history, travel, and culture in a bottle.

Chaad’s trajectory has seen him on every side of wine commerce—from sommelier, wine director, and retail buyer to the founder of a wine importing and distribution firm. After successfully navigating the sale of his business during the COVID-19 pandemic, he pivoted his deep expertise toward his current role as Marketing Director for Eagle Eye Brands wine wholesaler. Today, he is a dedicated advocate for the "story" behind the label, connecting enthusiasts with the people and heritage of the world’s best vineyards.

As host of The Real Wine Show, Chaad brings a playful, gameshow energy to wine industry networking and education, further cementing his commitment to growing the wine community and mentoring emerging talent.

When he isn’t cycling through the Ann Arbor countryside or traveling with his family, you’ll find him exactly where he started: exploring the endless nuances of a great glass of wine.

Kristie Brablec

Owner and operator of Zingerman's Food Tours and Ground Control Wines, Kristie Brablec brings her boundless passion for gastronomy to everything she does. With over 20 years in the food and wine industry, her work has taken her across the globe, deepening her expertise and love for culinary experiences. Beyond food and wine, Kristie is a potter, photographer, creative thinker, music lover, and masterful party host—always curating experiences that bring people together in meaningful ways.