Baked with Love: Shayla's High Hydration Sourdough Journey

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Shayla, the passionate owner of The Crafted Crust, a cottage bakery specializing in high hydration sourdough. Shayla shares her inspiring journey into the world of baking, which began as a personal escape during challenging times…

From Family Legacy to Flavor: The Augie's Bar and Grill Experience

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Ryan, the fourth-generation owner of Augie's Bar and Grill in Bangor, Wisconsin. Ryan shares his family’s rich history in the bar and restaurant industry, detailing how he took the reins from his father and transformed Augie's in…

Rooted in Community: Discovering the Flavors and Fun at Schwertel Family Farms

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler is joined by Kristine Schwertel from Schwertel Family Farms in Trempealeau, Wisconsin. As the first farm to grace the show, Kristina shares the rich history of the farm, which began with her husband's grandmother, Grandma Millie, who star…

“Beer-Flavored Beer”: Inside the World of Turtle Stack Brewery

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Esther, the General Manager and Production Assistant at Turtle Stack Brewery in La Crosse, Wisconsin. As the first brewery to join the show, Esther shares the story behind Turtle Stack, which has been crafting quality beers for o…

Blueberry Bliss: Derek's Guide to Blueberries and Beyond

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Derek, the co-owner of Cain's Orchard in Hixon, Wisconsin. Derek shares the fascinating story of how he and his wife took over the family-owned orchard, which has been growing blueberries since 1981, and how they are dedicated to…

A Taste of Home: Jennifer's Journey Bringing Puerto Rican Flavors to the Coulee Region

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Jennifer, the passionate owner and baker of El Coqui's Kitchen, a delightful venture bringing the flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine to the Coulee Region. Jennifer shares her journey from New York City to La Crosse, revealing how he…

From Farm to Food Trailer: The Story Behind Patty Smashers and Shakes

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler sits down with Sarah, the enthusiastic owner and head chef of Patty Smashers and Shakes, a vibrant food trailer serving up delicious burgers and shakes in the Coulee Region. Sarah shares her journey from working in commercial kitchens to …

Sip, Savor, and Support: Reagan's Mission at Milk and Honey Espresso Bar

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Reagan, the passionate owner and manager of Milk and Honey Espresso Bar in Westby, Wisconsin. As the first business from Westby featured on the show, Reagan shares his inspiring journey from aspiring chef to coffee shop owner, re…

From Vietnam to the Coulee Region: Daisy's Sourdough Journey

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Daisy from Daisy's Corner, a charming cottage bakery specializing in sourdough bread. Daisy shares her inspiring journey from Vietnam to the Coulee Region, detailing how her personal health challenges led her to explore the world…

Nourishing Nature: Embracing Wellness and Cooking with Dr. Patty Bartsch

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler sits down with Dr. Patty Bartsch, a traditional naturopath from Naturally Unbridled Wellness. Dr. Bartsch shares her fascinating journey from the biotechnology industry to holistic health, emphasizing the importance of nutrition in achiev…