Around The 715

This is a packed episode of The Man Cave Podcast covering everything from Brewers baseball and legendary coaches to college mascots and the sports card hobby. Dan kicks things off with a conversation about Brewers manager Pat Murphy and whether some of his leadership style reminds Dan of Vince Lombardi. They aren't comparing the two coaches' careers or accomplishments, but instead look at how both have been known for demanding a lot from their players while also knowing when and how to build them back up. He discusses Murphy's handling of players like Cooper Pratt and Robert Gasser, the culture he's created in Milwaukee, and what his legacy could eventually become. Then it's college mascot time. Dan and Brandon debate their favorite mascots, including Bucky Badger, the Oregon Duck, Big Red, the Stanford Tree, WuShock and some of the more unusual characters in college sports. They also revisit Mike Leach's entertaining hypothetical about what would happen if college mascots had to fight. Dan also catches up with Ty from Slab Factory for a deep dive into the sports card hobby. They talk about PSA's grading backlog and new service levels, what's happening with Beckett and other grading companies, the changing market for players like Tim Duncan and Brett Favre, new football card releases, and whether a potential MLB lockout could impact baseball card values. Ty also shares some of his favorite Brewers cards, including Jackson Chourio, Prince Fielder and some unique one-of-one cards, plus there's a special Brewers card giveaway for listeners. And there's a little preview of a future Man Cave conversation about the things we were told as kids that we'd eventually "understand when we got older." No scripts. No forced takes. Just Man Cave talk.

Week One of the NFL season is officially in the books, and Dan Kasper has plenty to say about it. On this episode of The Man Cave Podcast, Dan reveals his first NFL Top 10 Power Rankings of the season, including where the Packers' rivals land and why the Baltimore Ravens are sitting at No. 1. He also takes a closer look at Derrick Henry's incredible career and makes the case that the future Hall of Famer is still underrated. Then it's time for some October baseball talk. Dan explains why he believes the Milwaukee Brewers' recent offensive surge could change the narrative heading into the postseason—and why, if they can carry that momentum into October, he believes the Brewers have a legitimate shot at the World Series. But the most personal part of the episode comes at the end, as Dan opens up about the emotional side of being a football fan. After seeing the negativity and frustration surrounding the Packers following Week One, Dan talks about how fan reactions can sometimes take the fun out of sports—and why it's okay to be frustrated without letting a loss ruin your week, your relationships, or your life. It's a conversation about sports, passion, perspective, and remembering why we love the games in the first place. In this episode: • Dan's NFL Top 10 Power Rankings after Week One • Why Baltimore is No. 1 • Derrick Henry's historic career and why he's a "unicorn" • The Brewers' September offensive surge • Why Dan believes Milwaukee can make a World Series run • The emotional side of being a Packers fan • Why sports debates don't have to turn into arguments • A reminder to keep the passion—but take a deep breath Get in the Man Cave and join the conversation!

An interview with Ross Valory about his album "All Of The Above."  He talks about the vinyl release in August of 2026, the current single "City Lights," the oldest recording on the project, remastering the music, his Steinberger bass guitar from the 1980s, and more.

It’s time to fire up the old PlayStation 2, Xbox and Nintendo 64! Dan and Brandon are back in the Man Cave to build their Mount Rushmore of sports video games from the 2000s (2000–2009). They debate the games that defined the era, share listener picks, and revisit some of the sports gaming classics they spent countless hours playing. The guys discuss Madden 03 and 04, MVP Baseball 05, NASCAR Thunder 04, NBA 2K5, March Madness 04, WWF No Mercy, Tiger Woods PGA Tour, NCAA Football 06, NFL Head Coach 09 and plenty more. But this isn't just about which games were the best. Dan and Brandon talk about the soundtracks, franchise and dynasty modes, memorable gameplay, and the personal memories that make certain games stick with you long after you've put down the controller. Plus, they roll the virtual dice to determine the topic for the next Man Cave debate—and they've landed on the Top 5 College Sports Mascots of All Time. What made your Mount Rushmore of 2000s sports video games? Let us know!

Guests on the September 13th Episode of 715 NEWSMAKERS:  Marisol Cisneros, Organizer/Spokesperson CHIPPEWA VALLEY MULTI CULTURAL FESTIVAL Becky Mattson, Eau Claire Kiwanis about 68th Annual Paul Bunyan Flapjack Feed Reigning Oktoberfest Festmeister Buddy Brannen and Festmeisterin Jaynee Brannen about this years Oktoberbest September 18-19 in Chippewa Falls  Dr. Jennifer Eddy, Family Resource Center Executive Director Jackie Minor, LE Phillips Senior Center Executive Director about Senior Resource Fair Tuesday September 15, 

The Kid Cave is back—and the NFL season is here! In the first episode of the new Kid Cave format, Dan and Hutson kick off football season by making their predictions for the 2026 NFL season. Who will win each division? Which teams will make the playoffs? And who will take home the biggest individual awards? Dan and Hutson also make their Week 1 game picks, including their prediction for Packers vs. Vikings. They'll keep track of their picks throughout the season to see who comes out on top! Plus, it's time for some Sports IQ as Hutson learns about baseball batting average, points per game and run differential. And Dan starts things off with a fun baseball fact that puts Hutson's sports knowledge to the test. The Kid Cave is a sports show where Dan and Hutson talk sports, make predictions, learn some sports history and science, and have a little fun along the way. Have a question for Hutson? Send it our way—it could be featured in a future Overtime segment! New episodes of The Kid Cave are released Wednesdays after school.

The NFL season is finally here, and that means it’s time to make some bold predictions in the Man Cave! Dan Kasper is putting his crystal ball to work with his complete 2026 NFL predictions. He’s picking every division winner, laying out his playoff field, predicting the Super Bowl matchup and champion, and making his picks for MVP, Coach of the Year, Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Comeback Player of the Year and more. And yes… Dan is riding with the Green Bay Packers to win the NFC North. But how far does he think the Packers can go? Before getting into the predictions, Dan kicks things off with a fun sports question: What would you wait hours—or even camp out—for as a sports fan? From Super Bowl tickets to Brett Favre autographs and once-in-a-lifetime golf experiences, Dan reacts to some of the answers from listeners. Then it’s time to put the predictions on the record: 🏈 AFC & NFC division winners 🏈 Full playoff predictions 🏈 Packers and the NFC North 🏈 Super Bowl matchup and champion 🏈 MVP and Coach of the Year 🏈 Offensive & Defensive Player of the Year 🏈 Rookie of the Year 🏈 Comeback Player of the Year 🏈 And a few VERY bold predictions By the end of the season, some of these picks could look brilliant… and some could look absolutely ridiculous. Who do you think Dan is getting right? And what are YOUR bold NFL predictions for 2026? Welcome back to The Man Cave Podcast.

It’s time to get back in the Man Cave! Dan and Brandon are back with another episode, and this time they’re putting their sports knowledge—and their nostalgia—to the test. First up, it’s another round of the Man Cave draft game as the guys build their ultimate five-man teams of NBA centers from the 1990s. Shaquille O’Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon, David Robinson, Patrick Ewing, Alonzo Mourning, Dikembe Mutombo and plenty of other ’90s big men are on the board. Who built the better team? That’s for YOU to decide! Then it’s time to roll the dice again. The game lands on Mount Rushmore, the topic is sports video games, and the era is the 2000s (2000–2009). That means it’s time to dig into the games that defined Dan and Brandon’s high school and college years—from classic football and basketball titles to the sports games that dominated the era. Which four sports video games deserve a spot on the ultimate Mount Rushmore of the 2000s? And what games are you picking? Play along with us and let us know your choices! Follow and subscribe to The Man Cave Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen. And if you have a question, topic, segment idea, or great story for the show, send it our way! The Man Cave Podcast — real, unscripted conversations about sports, hobbies, life and storytelling. No scripts. No forced takes. Just Man Cave talk.

An interview with Robin Campbell of UB40, about The Unstoppable World Tour, the reactions of audiences in different parts of the world, the more popular version of "Red Red Wine," work on their new album (due to arrive in 2027), their new cover of Shania Twain's "You're Still The One," Birmingham City football, and more.

Guests on the September 6th Episode of 715 Newsmakers include:  Toni Mattson, Executive Director TRINITY EQUESTRIAN CENTER Tracy LaTourette "Jackie O "  Colorado's First Female Fighter Pilot and Keynote speaker at STRENGTH IN SERVICE Summit Sept,. 12 at EC Event District 

The sports card market is always changing, and this week on The Man Cave Podcast, Dan Kasper catches up with Ty from Slab Factory to break down what’s happening across the hobby. Are collectors moving away from prospecting and back toward established legends? Ty explains the rise of the “GOAT market” and why cards featuring names like Michael Jordan, Barry Sanders, Peyton Manning, Shaquille O’Neal and other all-time greats are starting to see renewed interest. The guys also discuss whether there could ever be another Tom Brady-type investment and why Brock Purdy could be an intriguing name for collectors. Then they dive deep into the world of grading and authentication, including the controversial Mike Baker Authentication “Diamond Crossover” certification, PSA’s blue autograph labels and the massive premiums attached to Beckett Black Labels. You’ll also hear the incredible story of a Pokémon card that sold for more than $200,000 because only two copies received a Beckett Black Label. Ty also brings in some of his latest pickups, including a Christian Watson one-of-one autograph, Penny Hardaway inserts and some examples of how collectors can find cards priced below recent sales. Plus, Dan and Ty talk about how to properly research card values, why you should pay attention to actual sales instead of eBay asking prices, how tools like Card Ladder and 130 Point can help, and a simple trick for determining whether a player's overall card market is trending up or down. If you're a collector, investor, flipper or just getting back into the hobby, there's plenty to take away from this episode. The Man Cave Podcast — real conversations about sports, hobbies, life and storytelling. No scripts. No forced takes. Just Man Cave talk.

An interview with Tim Rushlow of The Frontmen ahead of their August, 2026, performance at Fever Fest in Wisconsin.  He talks about singing with fellow members Richie McDonald and Larry Stewart, the appeal of '90s country, the crossing over of country songs to pop, his memories of singing in choir in high school, Wisconsin audiences, and more.

Guests in the August 23 Episode of 715 Newsmakers included:  Elizabeth Hart, Executive Director Literacy Chippewa Valley Katie Dahlberg, Marketing and Sales, Amundsons Appliance  Michelle Reinen, Wisconsin DATCP Policy initiatives Advisor BJ Hollars, Chippewa Valley Writers Guild     

A chat with Drew Cagle ahead of his show at Northwoods Rock Rally 2026 in Glen Flora, WI.  He talks about sharing a billing with Aldo Nova, chatting with Gene Simmons, the influence of Gary Richrath of REO Speedwagon, the dream act with who he'd like to perform, and more.

An interview with Jeff Bush, Music Director of the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, about the ensemble's 2026 release "Sentimental Over You."  He talks about the songs chosen for the album, new arrangements of some of the tunes, singing a couple songs on the release, the particular sound of the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, and more.

The Eau Claire Express had one of their most memorable seasons in recent years, finishing with the best record in the Northwoods League and making a deep playoff run. Craig Toycen joins the podcast to look back at the incredible summer, including the dramatic playoff series against La Crosse, the team's record-setting pitching staff, standout performances from players, and the unforgettable moments at Carson Park. Toycen also talks about the incredible fan support throughout the playoffs, the upcoming improvements to historic Carson Park, the growing presence of local baseball talent, and the addition of the Dyersville Dreamers to the Northwoods League. Plus, what's next for the Express? Toycen discusses the offseason, the team's plans for next season, and why the disappointment of falling short of a championship is already providing motivation for 2027. It was a special summer for the Eau Claire Express—and this episode takes a look back at what made it so memorable.

Guests on the August 16th Episode of 715 Newsmakers included:  Kelly Christianson, Executive Director, Eau Claire Public Schools Foundation about Mid  West Family Eau Claire's annual Back to School Bucks and Books Drive Jeremy Coon, Producer of UECK, Documentary Film about the life and lore of the legendary Bob Uecker, now showing at Micon 7 Cinemas in Eau Claire Valerie Wood, Clark County Clean Sweep Program 

Dan and Hutson are back in the Kid Cave—and this time, they're putting their taste buds to the test! After the popularity of their sunflower seed and Big League Chew flavor bracket, the guys decided it was time for the real thing: a massive sunflower seed taste test! With more than 25 different flavors and brands, Dan and Hudson sample everything from Peanut Butter & Jelly and Chili Lime to Backyard Barbecue, Dill Pickle, Maple Brown Sugar, Cheddar Jalapeño, S'mores, Cinnamon Rolls and more. Each flavor gets a rating from 1 to 5, and there are plenty of surprises along the way. Some flavors completely miss the mark, while others turn out to be much better than expected. They also discover that one thing matters a lot when it comes to a great sunflower seed: how long the flavor lasts. Which seeds earn the coveted 5-star rating? Which flavors are total disappointments? And which unexpected flavors might be perfect for the dugout—or even the tree stand? Grab a bag of seeds and join Dan and Hutson for one of the tastiest episodes yet of The Kid Cave Podcast!

Ty from Slab Factory joins The Man Cave Podcast to talk all things sports cards and collecting. We kick things off with a look back at the first-ever Packs & Pints event at The Brewing Projekt, including why getting kids and families involved in the hobby was such a big focus—and why the event exceeded expectations. Then we dive into the current sports-card market, including Matthew Golden, Jesus Madej, Cooper Pratt and George Lombard, and whether buying cards of young players before they become stars can pay off. We also discuss the growing popularity of Topps' Mount Rushmore inserts, the thrill—and risk—of opening vintage packs, and some of the biggest cards in the hobby that are still out there somewhere. Ty also breaks down why modern cards can sometimes sell for more than cards of legends like Hank Aaron, the importance of rarity versus current hype, and the ultimate Babe Ruth "grail" card. Plus, we answer listener questions about vintage unopened boxes and what makes a card truly valuable. It's another deep dive into the sports-card hobby on The Man Cave Podcast.

An interview with Kelly Keagy of Night Ranger about the band's 2026 album "Best Of."  He talks about listening through older takes from the band's recording to assemble 2026 versions of their hits, remastering songs, the use of technology in music, re-doing music videos from the 1980s, their newer songs included on the album, and more.