Around The 715

Guests on the July 26th Edition of 715 Newsmakers included:  Joe Lustek, Spokesman/Organizer CLEARWATER JAZZ AND ART FESTIVAL Kathy Wright,  Pablo Center for the Arts Talent Booker  Mary Jane Thomsen, Executive Director American Red Cross, NW Wisconsin Chapter

Ty from The Slab Factory returns to the Man Cave Podcast for another edition of Hobby Talk! This week, we preview the National Sports Collectors Convention in Chicago, break down the release of 2026 Topps Chrome Baseball, and answer your listener questions. Topics include: What to expect at The National Topps Chrome 2026 checklist and biggest chase cards Are Panini cards still worth collecting? The best way to store and display your cards Should you grade now or wait for PSA? Are Downtowns and Uptowns worth holding? How to determine if your old cards have value Why Michael Jordan, Tom Brady and other GOAT cards are exploding in the hobby Whether you're a seasoned collector or just getting started, this episode is packed with practical advice and hobby insight.

An interview with Andrew Farriss about his 2026 album "The Prospector."  He discusses how the album's lyrical theme came about, writing with people like Stephen Wilson Jr. & Leigh Nash, subjects in songwriting, the flow of the songs on the album, and more.

On this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan Kasper sits down with new Eau Claire North head football coach Mike Sinz for an in-depth conversation about coaching, leadership, and the future of football in Wisconsin. Mike shares his journey from playing at Menomonie and UW-Eau Claire to becoming one of the area's most respected high school football coaches. He also discusses his vision for the Huskies program, why community involvement matters, and how he's working to build excitement around football in Eau Claire. The conversation also dives into: Why kids should play multiple sports The rise of specialization in youth athletics How college recruiters evaluate athletes The changing landscape of Wisconsin high school football Eight-player football and conference realignment Quarterback wins (are they really a stat?) Social media, recruiting, and today's student-athletes Lightning-round questions on pizza, movies, books, and more Whether you're a football fan, coach, parent, or sports lover, this episode is packed with insight into developing athletes—and people.

The MLB All-Star Game has come and gone, and now it’s time to look ahead at what’s next across Major League Baseball. In this episode, we break down the biggest takeaways from All-Star week, discuss the performances that stood out, and look at the storylines that could shape the second half of the season. From playoff contenders to teams looking to make a push before the trade deadline, we dive into the biggest questions facing baseball right now. Who made the biggest statement? Which teams are ready for a postseason run? And what should fans be watching as the second half begins? Tune in for the latest baseball conversation, predictions, and opinions from The Man Cave Podcast.

Guests on the July 19th Edition of 715 Newsmakers included: Heather Flashinski, ONE FEST Director Darrell Marrier, Band Member/Spokesman for ROSEWATER about upcoming events for Veterans. Angela Payne, Director of Development Boys and Girls Club of the Chippewa Valley about Lemonade Day August 6th Travis Austad, Chief Executive Officer, Big Brothers/Big Sisters  Tracy Smiskey, Chief Executive Officer, Northwestern Bank 

In this episode, we take a big-picture look at the current state of the Green Bay Packers. Where does the franchise stand heading into the new season? What should fans feel encouraged about, what questions still remain, and what expectations are realistic moving forward? From the roster and coaching staff to the team's identity and long-term outlook, we break down the biggest storylines surrounding the Packers and discuss whether they're positioned to take the next step. If you bleed green and gold, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Join us as we evaluate where the Packers stand today and what the future could hold.

In this episode, we take a big-picture look at the current state of the Milwaukee Brewers. Where does the organization stand as the season unfolds? What should fans be excited about, what concerns still linger, and what expectations should surround the club moving forward? From the roster and player development to the team's identity and outlook for the rest of the season, we break down the biggest storylines surrounding the Brewers and discuss where they stand in their pursuit of success. Whether you've been following every game or just checking in on Wisconsin baseball, this episode offers an honest look at where the Brewers are today and where they could be headed.

In this episode, we deliver a State of the Union for two of Wisconsin's biggest basketball programs: the Milwaukee Bucks and the Wisconsin Badgers. Where does each program stand today? What's gone right, what still needs to improve, and what should fans realistically expect moving forward? From roster construction and organizational direction to expectations for the upcoming season, we break down the biggest storylines surrounding both teams and discuss whether they're trending in the right direction. Whether you're a Bucks fan, a Badgers fan, or simply love Wisconsin sports, this episode offers an honest look at where things stand and what's next.

In this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan and Brandon break down the biggest All-Star events in sports and debate why MLB continues to set the standard. From the Home Run Derby to the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, the NFL Pro Bowl, and the NHL's Four Nations tournament, they discuss what's working, what's broken, and what each league could do to bring excitement back to All-Star Weekend. They also share some of their favorite All-Star memories, debate whether today's biggest stars are doing enough to participate, discuss Brewers players who deserved All-Star recognition, and explain why Bryce Turang was one of the biggest snubs this season. Whether you're a baseball fan or just love talking sports, this episode is packed with nostalgia, opinions, and ideas on how to make All-Star events must-watch again. Topics include: Why MLB still has the best All-Star Game Can the NBA Slam Dunk Contest be saved? What's next for the NFL Pro Bowl? The best Home Run Derby memories Brewers All-Star selections and snubs How sports can make All-Star Weekend fun again If you enjoy the show, be sure to follow The Man Cave Podcast, leave a rating and review, and share this episode with a fellow sports fan.

On the July 12th Episode of 715 Newsmakers:  Matt and Sam Redetzke talk with WAXX 104.5's Bob Bosold about Wisconsin Farm Techology Days 2026 July 14-July 16 at their farm NO JOKE DAIRY near Stratford Wiscolnsin Melissa Ploeckelman Brown, Research Education Outreach Specialist about Marshfield Clinic FRESH area at Wisconsin Farm Technology Days ( a conversation with Jill Welke of WAXX 104.5)  Eau Claire Cavaliers President Aaron Zook 

What actually makes an autograph card valuable? Tyler from Slab Factory joins the show to break down the different types of sports card autographs—from sticker autos and on-card signatures to cut autographs and aftermarket authentication. We also discuss Michael Jordan's new Upper Deck redemption promotion, Giannis' move to Miami and what it means for collectors, Luis Lara's rising market, and answer listener questions about preserving signed memorabilia. Whether you're a longtime collector or just getting started, this episode is packed with hobby knowledge.

Craig Toycen of the Eau Claire Express joins the show to break down a packed day at Carson Park, including a doubleheader against Wausau, All-Star selections, and what it means for the Express to lead the Northwoods League in All-Star representation. We also dig into: The challenges of rain delays and doubleheaders Pitching strategy and workload management in the Northwoods League The importance of team chemistry during a long summer season A look ahead to the second half push and upcoming road stretch What makes Carson Park one of the best baseball atmospheres in the country Plus, a behind-the-scenes look at life in the Northwoods League, host families, and what players do during the All-Star break.

Guests on the July 5th Episode of 715 Newsmakers included:  Travia Austad, Chief Executive Officer, Big Borthers/ Big Sisters of Northwestern Wisconsin Tracy Smiskey, Chief Executive Officer, Northwestern Bank  Aaron Zook, President Board of Directors Eau Claire Cavaliers   WAXX 104.5/ 95-9 THE FARM Assistant Farm Director/ Anchor/Reporter Jill Welke with Wisconsin FFA "star" Elizabeth Zimmerman of Osseo-Fairchild FFA  Andy Brown, Co Founder/ Co Creator Clearwater Clues Scavenger Hunt 

Every sports fan has that moment—the trade, retirement, or free agency move that left you stunned. In this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan and Brandon count down their Top 5 most heartbreaking departures from their favorite teams. From Packers legends and Brewers fan favorites to Bucks stars, college coaches, and NFL icons, they revisit the moments that were hardest to accept. The conversation includes: Why Giannis' departure hits Wisconsin fans so hard The emotional roller coaster of Brett Favre's exit from Green Bay Aaron Rodgers, Craig Counsell, Bo Ryan, Shaq, Randy Moss,  Ray Allen, and more The difference between a player retiring, being traded, or leaving in free agency Which current athletes would be toughest to watch leave next Whether you're a Packers, Brewers, Bucks, Vikings, Badgers, or just a lifelong sports fan, this episode is full of nostalgia, debate, and the unforgettable moments that remind us why sports can be so emotional. 🎙️ What's the most heartbreaking departure you've experienced as a sports fan? Let us know in the comments! #SportsPodcast #Packers #Brewers #Bucks #NFL #NBA #MLB #WisconsinSports #SportsFans #TheManCavePodcast

Guests on the June 28th Episode of 715 Newsmakers included:    Betsy Ottman and Bailey Waldera, Event Managers, Ashley for the Arts Cat Morgan, Fierce Freedom Executive Director 

What makes a sports moment truly unforgettable? In this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan continues his countdown of the 250 Greatest American Sports Moments, Athletes, Teams, and Games, diving into some of the most iconic moments in sports history. From Tiger Woods' historic 1997 Masters victory and Jackie Robinson breaking baseball's color barrier, to Jesse Owens silencing the world at the 1936 Olympics, Dan explores the moments that transcended sports and helped shape American culture. Plus: ⚾ Don Larsen's perfect game in the World Series 🏀 Michael Jordan's legendary final shot with the Bulls 🏈 The Patriots' historic 28-3 comeback and Malcolm Butler's game-saving interception 🐎 Secretariat's dominance at the Belmont Stakes 🎾 Billie Jean King's Battle of the Sexes victory 🏁 Dale Earnhardt's lasting impact on NASCAR ⚾ Shohei Ohtani's unprecedented baseball greatness ⚾ The McGwire-Sosa home run chase and its complicated legacy Whether you lived through these moments or are discovering them for the first time, this episode celebrates the athletes, games, and events that left a permanent mark on sports history. Which sports moment would make your list? #SportsHistory #TheManCavePodcast #MichaelJordan #TigerWoods #JackieRobinson #NFL #MLB #NBA #SportsPodcast

What is the best baseball snack of all time? In this episode of the Kid Cave Podcast, Hutson takes over and creates his own tournament bracket featuring some of the most popular Big League Chew and sunflower seed flavors ever made. Together, Dan and Hutson debate every matchup, make their picks, and crown a champion. Will Grape Big League Chew prove why it's a dugout favorite? Can classic sunflower seed flavors like Ranch, Dill Pickle, and Parmesan Garlic hold off some of the newer contenders? Along the way, you'll hear plenty of baseball talk, friendly father-son banter, surprising upsets, and a few controversial picks that might leave baseball fans shaking their heads. ⚾ Which Big League Chew flavor is the GOAT? 🌻 What is the ultimate sunflower seed flavor? 🏆 Did we get it right? Listen and then let us know your picks! The Kid Cave Podcast is where young sports fans learn about the games they love while having fun along the way.

Ty from Slab Factory joins us to discuss the different types of rookie cards and what to look for, new drops, who's stock is rising and falling. 

Guests on the June 21 Episode of 715 Newsmakers included:  Heather Flashinski, Founder/Organizer  ONE FEST Kenzi Havlicek, VISIT EAU CLAIRE   Michelle Reinen, Wisconsin DATCP 

In our latest group, we highlight many people associated with nontraditional sports, but you can't tell the history of sports in America without them! Plus we reveal a few more iconic franchises.