Media & Press
"The continued education I received through the AFNA and CB programs directly contributed to my advancement into an innovation role with my employer. The knowledge and frameworks taught here clearly differentiated me from other candidates and equipped me with the tools needed to excel in the new role. These programs were instrumental in opening new opportunities and elevating my professional journey."
Phillip Palmisano
Director of Innovation, Monster Brewing Company
As Featured In
What People Are Saying
“It's such a growing market… We owe it to our guests to be well versed in what is available, and how to pair them with the menu.”
Melissa Smith
Sommelier and Founder, Enotrias
“At AFicioNAdo™, we build each certification alongside industry leaders and pair it with powerful learning technology.”
Meagen Coester
Founder, AFicioNAdo™
Our Founders
Meagen Coester
Founder + CEO of AFicioNAdo™ Certification Program
Coester has lived a zero-proof lifestyle since 2020 and is passionate about elevating the category and reducing stigma around alcohol-free and non-alcoholic (AFNA™) adult beverages. With an MBA in Sustainable Business and 20 years in CPG, Coester’s experience includes national beer education at Boston Beer Company and global hops sales roles with Kalsec and NZ Hops Ltd. Coester is currently the Regional Technical Sales Manager for North America at ADM, leading the Totally Natural Solutions™ platform. A Certified Cicerone® and BJCP judge, Coester has completed 140+ hours of in-person beer sensory training with the esteemed Dr. Bill Simpson, and has consulted for breweries, tech startups, beverage producers, and hop companies.
Rachel Martin
Founder & CEO, Oceano WinesCo-Founder & Program Author, AFNA Wine Certified™
With a background in viticulture, sensory science, and hospitality, Rachel Martin has spent over 20 years pushing the boundaries of modern wine. Trained in enology at Napa Valley College and the University of Bordeaux, she has blended technical expertise with a passion for innovation—launching premium nonalcoholic and low-alcohol wines that highlight true terroir. From helping define the Middleburg Virginia AVA to crafting award-winning wines on California’s coast, her work reflects a deep commitment to quality, sustainability, and mindful drinking. Her contributions have been recognized by Forbes, Bloomberg, Food & Wine, and more. She is also a frequent speaker at industry events focused on the future of wine and consumer trends.
Derek Brown
Author & Co-Founder, AFNA Spirits Certified™
A pioneer of both the craft cocktail revival and mindful drinking, Derek Brown brings decades of bar leadership, including Washington, D.C.’s acclaimed Columbia Room.
Author of Mindful Mixology (Rizzoli, 2022) and Spirits, Sugar, Water, Bitters, he has been featured in major outlets as a leading national voice for no- and low-alcohol drinking. His guest-first approach helps professionals bridge classic craft and innovation in AFNA™ spirits.
