Around The 715

On this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan Kasper reflects on the life and legacy of former Green Bay Packers president Bob Harlan, who passed away at the age of 89. The guys discuss how Harlan helped transform the Packers organization—hiring Ron Wolf, helping bring in Mike Holmgren, and laying the foundation for the Super Bowl XXXI championship era. They also talk about Harlan’s leadership style, the renovation of Lambeau Field, and why his impact on the franchise is still felt today. Later in the show, Dan and Brandon Berg shift gears to the upcoming NFL free agency period, making predictions on which player will be the first to sign when the new league year begins, while also discussing rumors surrounding the Packers, Vikings, and potential quarterback moves. Unscripted sports talk, storytelling, and plenty of classic Man Cave conversation.

Spring training is heating up and the Milwaukee Brewers are inching closer to Opening Day. On this episode of the Man Cave Podcast, host Dan Kasper is joined by guest Brandon Berg to break down the biggest storylines coming out of Brewers camp. The guys discuss the uncertainty surrounding pitcher Quinn Priester and his wrist injury, the cautious approach with Brandon Woodruff, and how the Brewers’ pitching depth could help them navigate early-season challenges. They also dive into how the World Baseball Classic is impacting spring training and creating opportunities for younger players to make a statement. Names like Tyler Black, Akil Baddoo, and David Hamilton are generating buzz as roster battles begin to take shape. Plus, Dan and Brandon talk about the Brewers experimenting with MLB’s new ABS Challenge System—the automated strike zone review that could change how hitters, pitchers, and catchers challenge calls during games. From injuries and breakout candidates to rule changes and roster questions, it’s a relaxed but insightful Brewers conversation as the season approaches. No scripts. No forced takes. Just Man Cave Talk. ⚾🎙️

Host Dan Kasper and Brandon Berg dive into a busy stretch of high school sports, including girls basketball sectional matchups featuring Rice Lake, St. Croix Central, Cameron, Neillsville, and more as teams battle for trips to state. They also preview key boys basketball regional games happening across the area. Plus, the guys discuss state hockey championship matchups, local college sports updates from UW–Stout and UW–Eau Claire, and the start of spring sports just around the corner. Later in the episode, Dr. Crow provides medical insight into some of the biggest sports injury stories, including: Rehabilitation timelines after major injuries The mental challenges athletes face during recovery What a degenerative ACL means for NFL Draft prospects Updates on injuries around the sports world

On the March 8th Episode of 715 NEWSMAKERS:  Chelsea Higley, Founder/Creator/Owner BOOKED EAU CLAIRE Michelle Reinen, Policy Initiatives Advisor , Wisconsin DATCP  Dan Ekblad, Organizer/ Promoter Collector's CON (Eau Claire)  Lisa Gill, Founder/Organizer, Wisconsin Sports Show  

NFL free agency is almost here, and the franchise tag deadline has passed — which means the market is about to heat up. But don’t expect the Green Bay Packers to chase the biggest names. In this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan Kasper breaks down 10 veteran free agents who won’t break the bank — but could still make a real impact. Instead of focusing on splashy, top-tier signings, Dan looks at the kind of under-the-radar veterans that have historically helped Green Bay win. From defensive line help like Calais Campbell and DJ Reader… to potential reunions with players familiar with Jonathan Gannon’s system… to cornerback depth, linebacker versatility, and offensive line stability — this episode is all about smart, short-term moves that address real needs. Could Green Bay strike gold with a one- or two-year bargain deal? If the Packers are going to contend, they’ll need to hit on the right veterans — not just the biggest headlines. No scripts. No forced takes. Just real football talk. 🎙️ The Man Cave Podcast with Dan Kasper

An interview with Stevie Stewart and Richie Onori of Sweet.  They talk about their 2026 single "Sweet Dream," the legacy of Sweet bassist Steve Priest, playing the music from the era of the band's hits, their live show, Molly Hatchett (performing with the band in Wisconsin Dells, WI, later in the month after this interview), new music, and more.

In this episode, Phil Tripper sits down with director Ron Krienke to talk about the upcoming  production of Jesus Christ Superstar at The Oxford in Eau Claire. They discuss what attracted Krienke to this iconic rock musical, his creative vision for bringing the show to life on the local stage, and how the cast and crew have approached the music and storytelling. Krienke shares insights about casting, rehearsals, and how the themes of the show resonate with the community and what we can expect at the performances this month. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s playoff time in Wisconsin — and everything is coming to a head. On this episode of the Man Cave Podcast, Dan and Brandon break down a packed local sports slate as girls basketball regionals roll on across Divisions I through V. From Chippewa Falls’ big road win to loaded Division IV matchups featuring Regis, McDonell, Neillsville, and Durand-Arkansas — we map out the potential collision courses and the teams that could be Madison-bound. 🏀 Who survives the Dairyland gauntlet in Division V? 🏀 Is Rice Lake on a sectional crash course? 🏀 Could we see another Neillsville–McDonell showdown? Plus: 🏒 Sectional finals in boys and girls hockey — including Hudson vs. Stevens Point with a state berth on the line at Chippewa Area Ice Arena. 🤼 State wrestling updates and the new double-elimination format. 🏀 Boys basketball conference wrap-ups and Cloverbelt crossover “doozies.” 🎽 WIAC tournament action, college schedule shakeups, and more.

The NFLPA report cards are out — or at least leaked — and the Green Bay Packers just took a massive tumble. Dan Kasper breaks down Green Bay’s drop to 21st overall, the steepest year-over-year decline in the league, and why the most concerning grade might not be facilities… but respect for head coach Matt LaFleur. Training staff ranked in the bottom third Players citing lack of trust in the training room Ongoing issues with family treatment and childcare LaFleur ranking near the bottom in player respect Is this just offseason noise… or a real red flag for a team whose Super Bowl window is now? Plus: Should the Packers trade Nate Hobbs? Does moving Hobbs free up needed cap space? Could former Badger Tyler Biadasz be the answer at center? What Green Bay’s defensive scheme shift could mean for the secondary And Dr. Austin Crowe joins the show to explain what a “lack of trust” in a training room actually means inside an NFL organization. No scripts. No forced takes. Just real Packers talk.

The Brewers’ future might already be here — and it’s exciting. Dan Kasper and Brandon break down Milwaukee’s biggest spring training storylines, including Tyler Black’s push for a roster spot, Bryce Turang’s continued offensive growth, and whether Jackson Chourio could realistically reach 30 home runs and 30 stolen bases this season. They also dive into Christian Yelich’s 20/20 potential, William Contreras’ bounce-back outlook, and why this young Brewers core may outperform national expectations. Is this roster built for another postseason run? Or could it be even better than that? Unscripted. Unfiltered. Just Man Cave talk.

Guests on the March 1st Episode of 715 Newsmakers included:  Dale Karls, Comminications Coordinator Western Dairyland EOC and Anna Cardarella, Chief Executive Officer, Western Dairyland EOC. Jeff Milas, Owner of North Country Enterprises, Organizer for 62nd Annual Eau Claire Farm Show Michelle Reinen, Wisconsin DATCP Policy Initiatives Advisor  Mary Behling, Founder/Organizer  Cancer Care Bag Project and Katelyn Anderson and Jewell Cosiquien. Co Presidents  Eau Claire Memorial High School Key Club  

The NFL Combine is here… which means quarterback chaos is officially underway. On this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan breaks down his Quarterback Match Game — predicting who will be under center in Week 1 for nine teams that could see major changes this offseason. From bold takes like Kirk Cousins to Kansas City? … to Tua staying in the division? … to what the Jets, Vikings, Raiders, Browns, Steelers and more might do — this episode dives deep into the decisions that could define jobs, franchises, and the entire 2026 season. Some of these moves make sense. Some are spicy. All of them will shape the NFL landscape. 🔥 Which quarterback-team pairing do YOU think happens? Drop your predictions and join the conversation.

It’s National Trading Card Day and we’re diving deep into the hobby. Dan sits down with Tyler from Slab Factory to talk about the explosive growth of sports cards and Pokémon, the 30th anniversary of Pokémon, the rise of rarity in the hobby, and why collecting today looks very different from the junk wax era. We break down: The evolution of trading cards from the 80s and 90s to the 2020 boom Why Pokémon continues to surge The difference between game-worn and player-worn patch cards The most iconic card of all time (yes… the Jordan rookie debate) Building a personal collection vs. chasing value Educating kids in the hobby and avoiding fake cards Slab Factory’s growth from Eau Claire to Madison Plus, Tyler shares pieces from his personal collection — including patch cards, a Derek Jeter rookie, a Jackson Chourio rookie, and talks about his dream card: the Fleer Michael Jordan rookie. Whether you’re ripping packs with your kids, hunting grails, or just getting back into the hobby after 2020, this episode is for you. No scripts. No forced takes. Just Man Cave talk.

The Winter Olympics wrapped up with an unforgettable USA vs Canada hockey showdown — and it reminded me why we fell in love with sports in the first place. In this episode: • Olympic passion and pride • The thrill of victory — and heartbreak • Is the NFL Combine overrated? • Draft season excitement • National Trading Card Day & sports card nostalgia This one’s about making sports fun again.

It’s a jam-packed local sports roundup Dan Kasper and Justus Cleveland dive into high school basketball playoff brackets across every division — from D1 heavy hitters to D5 regional rivalries. We break down key matchups, potential upsets, and must-watch rematches across the Chippewa Valley and beyond. Plus, sectional hockey heats up, girls hoops tips off, and the WIAC tournaments bring the drama in basketball, hockey, wrestling, and more. We also react to national championship coach Matt Walker heading to Drake University for a D1 opportunity and what it says about the strength of the WIAC. 

Guests on the February 22nd Episode of 715 Newsmakers included:  Wisconsin Senator Jesse James Anna Cardarella, Chief Executive Officer WESTERN DAIRYLAND and Dale Karls, Communications Director WESTERN DAIRYLAND  Astri Graceheart, Executive Director HOME FOR GOOD 

It’s officially crunch time in local sports — and the pressure is building. On this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan Kasper and  Brandon Berg dive headfirst into a packed local sports roundup as winter seasons collide with playoff intensity. From high school hockey regional finals and girls wrestling sectionals to boys swimming state and conference-title drama in basketball, everything is happening at once — and nothing is settled yet. The Division One hockey bracket is loaded with heavy hitters like Superior, Hudson, Stevens Point, and Wausau West, but nobody’s cruising. In Division Two, Rice Lake and Amery are on a collision course, while Big Rivers teams are battling for sectional supremacy. On the hardwood, conference championships are literally coming down to the final night — with Rice Lake vs. Hudson, Regis vs. Fall Creek, and major showdowns across the Western Cloverbelt and Big Rivers. Plus, the guys break down the latest wrestling reseeding news from the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association, boys swimming state in Waukesha, gymnastics conference action, and a full college sports weekend preview featuring UW–Stout and the Blugolds. Fast, furious, and playoff-ready — this is what February sports are all about. No scripts. No forced takes. Just Man Cave talk.

This episodes takes some of Lauren's tips, tricks, strategies and tactics used in business and professional life and applies them to the home. Yes, you can set office hours in your own house!. Have a listen and let us help you with some family boundary setting ideas. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Brewers aren’t waiting around — they’re doubling down on Pat Murphy. In this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan Kasper and Brandon Berg dive into reports of Murphy’s new extension and what it means for the future of the Milwaukee Brewers. Is he now one of the highest-paid managers in baseball? How does that compare to Craig Counsell? And what does this say about the direction of the franchise under Mark Attanasio? Dan also breaks down the Brewers’ revamped third base situation, including the addition of Luis Rengifo. Is this about raising the floor? Buying time for prospects? Creating infield versatility? Plus: what role does development play under infield coach Matt Erickson? With spring training underway, Dan and Brandon look at: Why Murphy’s leadership style fits Milwaukee The succession plan discussion at the ownership level Whether the infield depth is actually better now Pitching battles to watch this spring Why patience with top prospects still matters Unfiltered. Unscripted. Just real Brewers talk. #MilwaukeeBrewers #BrewersBaseball #MLB #SpringTraining #PatMurphy #CraigCounsell #MLBNews #BaseballPodcast #NL Central #Prospects #SportsTalk #TheManCavePodcast

The offseason never sleeps in Green Bay. On this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan Casper is joined by Rob Demovsky, ESPN NFL Nation reporter covering the Green Bay Packers, to break down the latest headlines surrounding the Packers’ offseason. They dive into the surprise departure of special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia, what it means for Matt LaFleur’s staff, and why this hire is more important than ever. The conversation also covers: The impact of the upcoming NFL Combine How the Packers approach free agency and franchise tag decisions The future of key names like Quay Walker, Romeo Doubs, and Rashan Walker Why backup quarterback could quietly be one of Green Bay’s biggest offseason priorities What really happens behind the scenes at the NFL Combine Rob also gives insight into how the Packers operate differently than most franchises when it comes to coaching announcements and roster moves. If you’re looking for real Packers analysis, insider perspective, and offseason strategy talk — this is your deep dive into what’s next in Green Bay. No hot takes. No overreactions. Just football. #GreenBayPackers #Packers #NFL #NFLCombine #PackersNation #MattLaFleur #BrianGutekunst #FreeAgency #NFLDraft #WisconsinSports #ManCavePodcast #DanKasper #NFLAnalysis #FootballPodcast

It’s a great time to be a Blugold. On this episode of Rolling with the Golds, Dan and Nick break down one of the busiest and most successful stretches of the season for UW-Eau Claire Athletics. From 50 events in 18 days to conference championships, program records, and playoff races, the energy around Blugold sports is undeniable. The guys recap: Women’s and men’s hockey gearing up for WIAC tournament action Wrestling claiming its first outright WIAC regular season championship Swimming & diving making noise at the WIAC Championships Indoor track & field climbing national rankings Men’s basketball boosting attendance and building momentum Softball opening its home slate at Sonnetag Field Tennis, lacrosse, and baseball kicking off their spring campaigns Then in the second half, the spotlight shifts to gymnastics. Seniors Ava Obermoller and Rachel Hettiarachchy reflect on being part of head coach Jesse Nelson’s first recruiting class, building a culture from the ground up, handling the mental grind of collegiate gymnastics, and helping elevate the program to national relevance. From glitter and game-day routines to program-record team scores, this episode captures what Blugold tradition and excellence truly look like. It’s championship season in Eau Claire — and the Golds are rolling.

An interview with Eddie Levert about his 2026 single "Let's Go To My Place."  He talks about the creation of the song and the personnel involved, how he writes music, upcoming releases, the most underrated song in his discography, the videos for The O'Jays' "Forever Mine" and "Love Train," and more.

It’s officially bracket season in the Chippewa Valley, and the madness is here. In this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan Kasper dives into a packed local sports roundup — breaking down girls high school basketball brackets from Division One through Division Five, spotlighting the teams with legit state-title potential, and identifying the sectionals that could turn into absolute chaos (especially that loaded Division Four bracket). From Chi-Hi, Memorial, and Rice Lake to Colfax, Regis, McDonell, and Independence-Gilmanton, we preview the matchups, the dark horses, and the heavyweight clashes that could define the postseason. Plus, boys and girls hockey brackets are set — including a brutal Division One boys sectional featuring Hudson, Wausau West, and Stevens Point where only one powerhouse survives. We also hit the college scene with the BlueGolds’ historic WIAC wrestling title under Coach Tim Fader, conference basketball races tightening by the day, and postseason implications across the WIAC. Add in state swimming, wrestling sectionals, and Olympic updates featuring Wisconsin natives Jordan Stolz and Ben Loomis — and it’s one of the busiest sports weeks of the year. No scripts. No forced takes. Just pure bracket talk and local sports energy.

On this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan Kasper and Brandon Berg reflect on the emotional highs and crushing lows of being a sports fan. From Wisconsin’s national championship loss to the Duke Blue Devils in 2015, to the Brewers’ 2011 NLCS defeat, to the Vikings’ 2009 NFC Championship heartbreak — the guys relive the moments that defined their sports lives. Why does it feel like sports bring more pain than celebration? Which loss still hurts the most? And why do we keep coming back for more? Real stories. Real reactions. Real Man Cave conversation. #ManCavePodcast #WisconsinSports #MilwaukeeBrewers #WisconsinBadgers #MinnesotaVikings #NFLPlayoffs #MLBPlayoffs #CollegeBasketball #SportsTalk #SportsPodcast #SportsHeartbreak #GreenBayPackers

Guests in the 2/15 Episode of 715 Newsmakers included:  Dale Karls, Western Dairyland EOC  Communications Director Anna Cardarella, Western Dairyland EOC  Chief Executive Offcer  Michelle Reinen, Wisconsin DATCP Policy Initiative Advisor  Stacy Marcum, Spokesperson, TOSSING HIGH FOR CRI  Logan Toftness, Director, Chippewa Valley Theatre Guild Production of TWILIGHT BOWL

Pitchers and catchers have officially reported, but the biggest Brewers storyline might’ve happened before camp even opened. Dan Kasper is joined by Brewers reporter Hunter Baumgardt to break down the surprising Caleb Durbin trade, what it means for third base, and why Milwaukee’s pitching depth could be second to none. They dive into the upside of new left-hander Kyle Harrison, debate who fills the infield void, discuss Jackson Chourio’s superstar trajectory, and examine the impact of Daniel Vogelbach returning to the organization as a coach. Spring training is here — and the Brewers’ long-term window might be wider than ever. #ManCavePodcast #MilwaukeeBrewers #BrewersBaseball #MLB #SpringTraining #PitchersAndCatchers #CalebDurbin #JacksonChourio #BrewersNation #MLBTrade #BaseballTalk #DanKasper

Who do you trust most to bring a championship back to Wisconsin? In this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan Kasper puts the state’s top decision-makers under the microscope — Brewers GM Matt Arnold, Packers GM Brian Gutekunst, Bucks GM Jon Horst, and Badgers AD Chris McIntosh. From the Caleb Durbin trade and long-term pitching philosophy to playoff failures, aggressive moves, and roster construction, this is a real, unscripted debate about winning now versus building for later — and who truly belongs in the circle of trust. #TheManCavePodcast #CircleOfTrust #WisconsinSports #Brewers #Packers #Bucks #Badgers #MattArnold #BrianGutekunst #JonHorst #ChrisMcIntosh #CalebDurbin #ChampionshipTalk #SportsDebate #ManCaveTalk

The Brewers shook things up by trading Caleb Durbin, signaling a clear focus on adding controllable pitching for years to come. On this episode, we break down what the move means right now, how it fits the organization’s long-term plan, and whether pitching depth once again becomes the backbone of Milwaukee’s future. #Brewers #MilwaukeeBrewers #MLB #CalebDurbin #BrewersBaseball #MLBTrades #PitchingDepth #ControllablePitching #BaseballTalk #TheManCavePodcast #ThisIsMyCrew

In part two of our conversation with Lauren Otto (of Otto Family Law), we discuss Boundaries and how it applies to to the family unit.  Setting Boundaries Creating dedicated intentional time with your kids and partner Overcoming the guilt associated with taking time for YOU and more These are all different tactics that can help you be more strategic and intentional in creating an environment of growth and wellness for everyone under your roof. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan and Brandon dream up the first-ever Wisconsin Semi-Athletic Winter Olympics, featuring events like windshield scraping, snowmobile racing, sledding, ice fishing, and even winter driving. Which events would you dominate? The conversation then shifts to Super Bowl traditions, unforgettable commercials, Puppy Bowl predictions, prop bets, and the ultimate debate — would you rather win a Super Bowl ring or an Olympic gold medal? It’s a classic Man Cave mix of sports, nostalgia, humor, and unscripted banter you won’t want to miss. #ManCavePodcast #WisconsinSports #WinterOlympics #SuperBowl #SportsTalk #PuppyBowl #PropBets #MidwestLife #IceFishing #SportsPodcast #FootballTalk #DanKasper