Around The 715

Three freshmen from the UW–Eau Claire women’s basketball team sit down to share what brought them to Eau Claire and what it’s really like stepping into one of the toughest conferences in the country. They discuss recruiting, team culture, WIAC battles, balancing school and basketball, and why family is at the core of the program—all capped off with some rapid-fire questions that show their personalities off the court. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From dramatic overtime wins and gut-check losses for the Blugold men’s and women’s basketball teams, to a brutally competitive WIAC conference race where nothing is guaranteed, the guys break down what these results mean moving forward. They also hit on a dominant weekend for Blue Gold hockey and wrestling, highlighting the energy, growth, and resilience of programs across the board. Plus, Justice shares firsthand stories from an unforgettable high school girls basketball classic—complete with buzzer beaters, future D1 talent, and a playoff-level atmosphere that reminds you why local sports matter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guests on the January 11th episode of 715 Newsmakers included:  Frank Bartella, Director Chippewa Valley Theatre Guild  production of THE 39 STEPS Michelle Reinen, Policy Initiatives Advisor, Wisconsin DATCP  Lauren Otto, Attorney Otto Family Law  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Murphy is a local legend and a WBA icon. If you have turned on the radio, went to a performance, won a prize or have participated in an event that helps the community in the last 40+ years...then you have been in the world of Murph! Tune into our conversation and let's get to the heart of what makes this modern day vaudeville renaissance man tick. This is Inside the 715 part 1 with John Murphy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Welcome to Man Cave University, where sports history comes to life through storytelling. In this episode, we tell the remarkable and often overlooked story of Howard “Cub” Buck — a foundational figure in football history whose impact spans generations. From Eau Claire, Wisconsin, to captaining the Wisconsin Badgers as a consensus All-American… from playing alongside Jim Thorpe at the dawn of professional football… to becoming Curly Lambeau’s first major investment with the Green Bay Packers… and even launching the University of Miami football program — Buck was there at the beginning of something big, time and time again. This isn’t about stats or record books. It’s about the people who built the game before it was glamorous. If you love sports, history, and a great story, you’re in the right place. Welcome to Man Cave University. Music: "See Clearly" by Tunetank "We'll Meet Again" - Jeremy Blake "A Revelation" - Jeremy Blake "American Frontiers" - Aaron Kenny "At Odds" - SYBS #ManCaveUniversity #SportsHistory #FootballHistory #GreenBayPackers #WisconsinBadgers #MiamiHurricanes #NFLHistory #ForgottenLegends #SportsPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Packers. Bears. Round 3.  Dan's final thoughts on this epic matchup including keys to victory, key matchups, players who "gotta have a game", and his prediction! #GreenBayPackers #Packers #PackersFootball #Cheesheads #GoPackGo See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan and Brandon discuss the latest news surrounding the #Brewers arbitration news and why Brewers fans need to just take a deep breath!  Plus the guys chat about the Brewers coaching staff.  #MilwaukeeBrewers #ThisIsMyCrew #BrewCrew #BrewersBaseball See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Crow joins Dan to discuss NFL playoff injuries heading into Wild Card weekend.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s a jam-packed Local Sports Roundup on The Man Cave Podcast with Dan Kasper, powered by Carpet City Flooring Center. Dan and the crew break down a thrilling night of high school hockey, highlighted by Eau Claire North’s rivalry win over Memorial during a celebration of 50 years of Eau Claire hockey. The conversation dives deep into Big Rivers Conference implications, postseason outlooks, and why this league continues to be one of the toughest around. On the girls side, the spotlight shifts to the ultra-competitive Big Rivers girls hockey race, where every team is capable of beating anyone on any night. The crew also previews a massive girls basketball showdown between Eau Claire Memorial and Rice Lake, one of the marquee matchups of the season. From there, it’s a full tour of the winter sports landscape: boys and girls basketball across the Big Rivers, Western Cloverbelt, and St. Croix Valley, wrestling ramping up with big invitationals and conference action, and updates on gymnastics and swimming as the second half of the season hits full stride. The episode wraps with a look at the college sports slate, including UW–Eau Claire and UW–Stout basketball, hockey, wrestling, gymnastics, and more as the winter sports calendar shifts into high gear. If you love rivalries, rankings, and keeping up with everything happening in local sports, this episode has you covered from puck drop to tip-off. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan and Brandon give their quick thoughts on the latest Giannis comments about him not requesting a trade.  #MilwaukeeBucks #BucksIn6 #FearTheDeer See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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The Bucks’ West Coast struggles continue, and the conversation around Milwaukee basketball is getting louder. On this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan Kasper reacts to the Bucks’ loss to the Warriors, breaking down the controversial officiating moments involving Draymond Green and Giannis Antetokounmpo — and Doc Rivers’ blunt postgame frustration. Why do veteran teams seem to get away with more, and is Draymond the ultimate “love him or hate him” player? Dan also looks ahead to the Lakers matchup, the first domino to fall ahead of the NBA trade deadline, and what it could mean for Milwaukee’s approach. With less than a month to go, the bigger question starts to loom: will this stretch of games determine how aggressive the Bucks are — or even spark uncomfortable conversations about Giannis’ long-term future? It’s an honest, fan-level discussion about where the Bucks stand, how the NBA has become increasingly player-driven, and what loyalty looks like in today’s league. #ManCavePodcast #MilwaukeeBucks #NBA #GiannisAntetokounmpo #DraymondGreen #NBAOfficiating #NBATradeDeadline #NBARumors #BucksBasketball #WisconsinSports #PlayerMovement See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s Packers vs. Bears, and the margin for error couldn’t be thinner. In this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan Kasper breaks down the biggest keys to victory for Green Bay in their latest showdown with Chicago. From finishing drives in the red zone, to surviving an elite Bears defense that leads the NFL in takeaways, the turnover battle takes center stage. Dan dives deep into the numbers, trends, and why Green Bay’s defensive drop-off in forcing turnovers could decide the game. The focus then shifts to slowing down Caleb Williams — a dangerous, athletic quarterback who thrives against the blitz and can beat defenses with both his arm and legs. How can Jeff Hafley’s defense confuse him? What unscouted looks might Green Bay need to pull out in a third matchup against a familiar opponent? And will Matt LaFleur and the offense have something unexpected ready early? It’s a detailed, film-room-style breakdown of a rivalry game where every possession matters — and one or two plays could swing everything. #ManCavePodcast #Packers #Bears #PackersVsBears #NFLPlayoffs #TurnoverBattle #GreenBayPackers #ChicagoBears #CalebWilliams #NFLAnalysis #FootballTalk #WisconsinSports See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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The countdown to kickoff is on, and the Packers’ path to victory starts in the trenches. In this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan Kasper breaks down one of the biggest keys to Saturday night’s playoff showdown between the Packers and Bears: stopping Chicago’s dangerous rushing attack. From red zone efficiency to early-down run defense, Dan explains why Green Bay can’t afford to settle for field goals—or allow Chicago to control the game on the ground. Dan dives deep into: Why touchdowns (not field goals) are critical to flipping the game script The Bears’ elite rushing offense and dominant offensive line How Jeff Hafley and the Packers defense must adjust after past run-defense failures The importance of winning early downs and forcing third-and-long situations How complementary football could be Green Bay’s best defensive weapon Plus, Dan continues his countdown of the most memorable Packers–Bears games, including a personal reflection on the iconic 10–3 win that launched the Packers’ Super Bowl XLV run. The episode wraps with a candid discussion sparked by Adam Schefter’s comments on Matt LaFleur’s contract status—raising bigger questions about whether Green Bay has historically been too conservative when it comes to paying coaches and assistants. Playoff football, rivalry history, and tough conversations—this one has it all. #ManCavePodcast #Packers #PackersBears #NFLPlayoffs #GoPackGo #PackersNation #BearsFootball #NFLAnalysis #GreenBayPackers #PlayoffFootball #LambeauField #MattLaFleur #NFLCoaching #FootballTalk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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In this episode of The Man Cave Podcast with Dan Kasper, the NFL regular season is officially in the books — and it’s time for PLAYOFF FOOTBALL. Dan dives into the full wild-card weekend slate and zeroes in on the matchup everyone is talking about: Packers vs. Bears… Round III. This is only the third postseason meeting ever in this historic rivalry, and Dan breaks down why this one feels different, what’s at stake, and how both teams arrive at this moment. He also gets honest about the “careful what you wish for” feeling of wanting Chicago in the postseason… and the risk that comes with it. Episode highlights include: Full NFL playoff schedule rundown Why Packers vs. Bears has extra spice this time Revisiting 2010 and 1941 postseason meetings Why Dan hates division matchups in the playoffs (as a fan) Top key to victory #1 for Green Bay: finishing in the red zone Why field goals won’t cut it against Chicago’s bend-but-don’t-break defense How aggressive Matt LaFleur may need to be on 3rd and 4th down The most memorable late-season Packers-Bears games and their playoff impact Plus, Dan looks back at Week 18, young Packers defensive players stepping up, and how preseason-style snaps might pay off in the postseason. If you love rivalry games, playoff pressure, and honest Green Bay talk — this is your episode. #TheManCavePodcast #Packers #Bears #PackersVsBears #NFLPlayoffs #GoPackGo #ChicagoBears #GreenBayPackers #NFLRivalry #RoundThree #NFLPodcast #FootballTalk #RedZoneOffense #KeysToVictory #NFCPlayoffs See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode of the Man Cave Podcast with Dan Kasper dives into a busy stretch of local winter sports. Dan breaks down conference play heating up across the region, schedules shifting with winter weather, and one of the biggest storylines of the year: UW–River Falls capturing a national championship after an incredible program turnaround. We also get into: The 50th anniversary matchup between Eau Claire North and Memorial hockey The rise of UW–River Falls football and the journey from losing seasons to national champs Caleb Blaha’s standout season and potential future at the next level WIAC basketball battles for Eau Claire, Stout, La Crosse, and Platteville Women’s and men’s hockey momentum heading into the home stretch Why this second half of the winter sports season might be the best yet If you’re into local athletics, rivalries on the ice, and playoff races in the WIAC, this episode is packed with storylines. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Guests on the January 4th episode of 715 NEWSMAKERS included:  Mary Jane Thomsen, Executive Director American Red Cross NW Wisconsin Chapter. Jerry Miner, Pittsville Fire Chief about Farm Safety ( with WAXX 104.5's Jill Welke)  Billy Gardell, MIKE on MIKE AND MOLLY. Billy is coming to the Pablo Center January 30th.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the first show of the new year, and Dan is kicking things off inside The Man Cave Podcast with bold predictions and New Year’s resolutions across the sports world. Dan and Brandon look ahead to 2026 in sports and lay out fearless forecasts on everything from the NFL to MLB and the NBA — including thoughts on potential quarterback movement, the future of LeBron James, and whether Major League Baseball avoids a lockout. Nothing is off limits. Then the guys shift into New Year’s resolutions for their favorite teams, including: Packers priorities for 2026 (trenches, health, and the O-line) Vikings quarterback decisions and what must change Brewers’ offensive needs and locking up young stars Bucks’ future with Giannis and roster shake-ups College football & basketball chaos — transfer portal, NIL, scheduling Why college sports desperately need structure again It’s part prediction, part therapy session, and part “careful what you wish for” as Dan rings in the new year with big ideas and even bigger opinions. #TheManCavePodcast #DanKasper #SportsPodcast #BoldPredictions #NewYearsResolutions #NFLTalk #NBATalk #MLBTalk #Packers #Vikings #Brewers #Bucks #Giannis #LeBronJames #NFLQuarterbacks #CollegeFootball #TransferPortal #SportsTalk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan gives his thoughts on the #Packers picking up Trevon Diggs off the waiver wire and what our expectations should be for Diggs.  Plus, Dan gives his one reason that Packers fans should be optimistic about a deep playoff run.  #GreenBayPackers #PackersFans #GoPackGo #PackersFootball #Cheesheads  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Brandon Berg from the Chippewa Herald joins Dan for another edition of "Local Sports Roundup" that includes a quick preview of the Stagg Bowl. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Giannis is back and there's been some improvement. But is he now calling out some teammates? #MilwaukeeBucks #FearTheDeer #BucksIn6 #NBA #BucksBasketball  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Crow joins us to go over all the injuries the #Packers have suffered, why some players don't have ACL surgery right away, and more.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Guests on this 12/28 edition of 715 Newsmakers included:  Jeff Staads, Executive Director , SOFAS FOR SERVICE :Lauren Otto , Otto Family Law about their Hat and Mitten Tree to benefit Bolton Refuge House in Eau Claire and Benjamin's House in RIce Lake  Sherry Jasper, Director CAMP OUR NAWAKWA , about Autumn's Kitchen !  And Happy New Year from all of our at 715 Newsmakers !        See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guests on this 12/21 Episode of 715 Newsmakers included:  Retiring Northwestern Bank Presideent/CEO Jerry Jacobson First Presbyterian Church Pastor Rev. Kathryn Reid Walker  Michelle Reinen, Wisconsin DATCP Policy Initiatives Advisor  TNTina--Chippewa Valley Roller Girl spokesperson Bob Lesniewski, Organizer  Memorial Service for the Homeless See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Giannis speaks....but doesn't say anything. Or is he? Is Doc Rivers lost right now? #MilwaukeeBucks #Bucks #BucksBasketball #BucksIn6 #FearTheDeer #NBA  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brandon Berg from the Chippewa Herald joins Dan to give the latest updates on prep basketball, wrestling, hockey, and swimming and diving!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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The Brewers made a move that has fans talking. On this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan Kasper breaks down the Brewers’ trade involving Isaac Collins, Nick Mears, and lefty reliever Bailey Serpa. Why move on from a fan favorite? What do the Brewers see in Serpa, and why does their track record with pitchers matter so much? The discussion dives into selling high on young position players, Milwaukee’s growing stable of left-handed arms, and why trusting the Brewers’ pitching infrastructure has paid off time and time again. Plus, a look ahead at what this trade could mean for the rest of the offseason—including Freddie Peralta rumors and the possibility of a bigger move still to come. #TheManCavePodcast #BrewersBaseball #BrewCrew #MLBHotStove #BrewersTalk #MLBTrades #WisconsinSports #BaseballPodcast #TrustTheProcess See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Packers–Bears is back with the division and playoff positioning on the line. With Micah Parsons out and both teams dealing with injuries, the margin for error is razor thin. Dan Kasper breaks down the biggest keys to Saturday night: stopping Chicago’s run game, containing Caleb Williams, protecting Jordan Love, and playing clean, disciplined football in a hostile environment. Who has to step up, who must have a game, and why this feels like a playoff matchup before the playoffs even start. #Packers #Bears #PackersVsBears #NFL #GoPackGo #ChicagoBears #JordanLove #CalebWilliams #NFLPlayoffs #TheManCavePodcast #DanKasper #NFLPreview #RivalryWeek See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the episode before Christmas on Rollin’ with the Golds, and there’s plenty to unwrap. Nick returns just in time as the guys break down an undefeated start for Blue Gold men’s basketball, a free-admission holiday matchup at Sonnentag, women’s basketball gearing up for a Texas trip, and strong performances from men’s and women’s hockey. Plus, updates across swimming & diving, wrestling, gymnastics, and track as the calendar flips toward WIAC play. The episode wraps with some lighthearted Christmas movie talk and a look ahead to a busy new year for UW–Eau Claire athletics. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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In this holiday edition of The Kid Cave, Dan and Hutson record from Hutson’s own kid cave as they get ready for Christmas and break down the sports world in a fun, kid-friendly way. The episode includes a surprising Olympic fun fact, a deep dive into NFL playoff scenarios, NBA standings and trade talk, and a history lesson on sack records in the NFL. Hudson shares a game tip, explains Madden strategy, shows off his Packers memorabilia, and helps learn the basics of the basketball pick and roll. It’s a mix of learning, laughs, and sports just in time for Christmas. #KidCave #KidsSportsPodcast #YouthSports #SportsForKids #NFLPlayoffs #NBATalk #LearnSports #FamilyFriendlyPodcast #Packers #ChristmasEpisode See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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The local sports scene is buzzing. Dan and Justus break down the UW–Eau Claire Blugolds men’s basketball team’s perfect 10–0 start, a strong beginning for Blue Golds women’s basketball, and why now is the time to pack the stands at the Sonnentag. The guys also hit on high school basketball and hockey matchups across the Chippewa Valley, the Husky Invite, and River Falls football’s historic march to the D3 national semifinals. A full local sports rundown you don’t want to miss. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sunday’s loss wasn’t just about the scoreboard — it was a gut punch. Dan breaks down the injuries that changed everything, defends Jordan Love and Matt LaFleur from lazy blame, and explains why the Packers’ season isn’t over yet. It’s frustration, perspective, and a rallying cry for Packers fans with three games left. #ManCavePodcast #Packers #GoPackGo #JordanLove #MattLaFleur #NFLTalk #PackersNation #WisconsinSports #GreenAndGold #NFLPodcast #SportsFans #NextManUp #PackersNews #GreenBayPackers #Cheeseheads See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Crow joins us for a special edition of "Inside the Training Room" to breakdown the injuries to Micah Parsons, Christian Watson, Patrick Mahomes, and TJ Watt.  #Packers #GoPackGo #PackersNews #GreenBayPackers #NFL #NFLInjuries  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.