Brews & Cruise Podcast

What's next for Winona Area Public Schools?

This week on the Brews & Cruise Podcast, host Chris Jacobson sits down with Brad Berzinski, Superintendent of Winona Area Public Schools, to discuss the future of education in Winona and some of the exciting things happening throughout the district.

One of the biggest topics is the upcoming Capital Projects Levy renewal. Brad breaks down what the levy funds, how it impacts local taxpayers, and what could happen if voters choose not to renew it.

We also discuss:

🎓 Career & Technical Education – New classes in mechatronics, firefighting, construction, and computer science that are preparing students for real-world careers.

💰 Forging a Future – How $326,000 in community donations is helping expand industrial technology opportunities.

🏫 Preschool & Early Childhood Education – The importance of giving young learners a strong start.

🤝 Community Education – Programs and opportunities available to Winona residents of all ages.

🏆 Winhawks Athletics – Celebrating an exciting fall sports season, including the boys soccer team's historic first trip to state!

Brad also shares his perspective on the challenges facing public education,

👻 The most-listened-to guest in Brews & Cruise Podcast history is BACK!

Lacey Korb returns to join host Chris Jacobson for another fascinating conversation about haunted history, ghost stories, and the dark secrets of Fountain City, Wisconsin!

After her first appearance became the most popular episode in Brews & Cruise history, Lacey is back to uncover more of the mysterious past surrounding this small Mississippi River town.

From reported paranormal activity at the historic Fountain City Auditorium and The Landing to the area's lesser-known history of prostitution and brothels, we explore stories that many locals may have never heard before.

We also discuss our experiences participating in Winona's Cemetery Walk, new reports of paranormal activity at Pieces of the Past, and other fascinating pieces of local history.

Are these simply stories passed down through generations, or could there be something more to them?

Whether you're interested in Wisconsin history, paranormal encounters, or the hidden stories of small-town America, this is a conversation you won't want to miss!

🎙️ Guest: Lacey Korb

🎧 Host: Chris Jacobson

📍 Featured Locations: Fountain City, Wisconsin & Winona, Minnesota

Have you ever experienced something paranormal in the area? We'd love to hear your story!

Subscribe to Brews & Cruise Podcast for new episodes every Monday!

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Winona Historical Society:

https://winonahistory.org/event/winona-walking-tours-haunted-2/2026-10-25/

The Corner Store:

https://www.thecornerstorefc.com/events

What does it take to overcome addiction, rebuild your life, and turn personal struggles into a mission to help others?

On this episode of Brews & Cruise Podcast, host Chris Jacobson sits down with Rick Utley, co-founder of Doc's Recovery House in Rochester, Minnesota, for an honest and inspiring conversation about addiction, recovery, and the power of second chances.

Rick shares his personal journey through addiction and recovery, the challenges he faced along the way, and what inspired him to co-found Doc's Recovery House. We explore how the organization helps individuals struggling with substance use, provides a supportive environment for recovery, and gives people the opportunity to rebuild their lives.

We also discuss the stigma surrounding addiction, the importance of family and community support, inspiring recovery stories, and the impact Doc's Recovery House is making throughout southeastern Minnesota.

Plus, we talk about the organization's annual golf tournament, community fundraising, and ways you can help support its mission.

Whether you've personally experienced addiction, know someone who has, or simply believe everyone deserves a second chance, this is a conversation worth hearing.

🌐 Learn more about Doc's Recovery House: https://www.docsrecoveryhouse.org

🎙️ Brews & Cruise Podcast — Real People. Real Stories. Real Conversations.

Subscribe, follow, and share this episode to help spread awareness about addiction recovery and the importance of second chances.

#BrewsAndCruisePodcast #DocsRecoveryHouse #AddictionRecovery #RickUtley #SecondChances

💔 6 Years Without My Wife: Grief, Fatherhood & Finding Love Again | Seth Brantner

What happens when you lose the love of your life, but still have children to raise and a future to figure out?

In this emotional and deeply personal episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, host Chris Jacobson sits down with Seth Brantner to discuss losing his wife, Erica, and the challenges of navigating grief, raising children, and learning to live and love again.

Six years later, Seth opens up about the guilt, unanswered questions, emotional struggles, and lessons he's learned along the way.

In this episode, we discuss:

💔 Losing a spouse and the reality of life afterward

👨‍👧‍👦 Parenting children through grief while grieving yourself

🧠 Survivor's guilt, regrets, and the constant "what ifs"

⏳ Why grief doesn't have an expiration date

❤️ Finding happiness again without feeling guilty

💑 Dating and finding love after losing a spouse

🎄 Navigating birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays

💪 Healing from trauma and rebuilding your identity

Seth also shares how he's kept Erica's memory alive for his children, the mistakes he's made along the way, and what he wishes more people understood about losing someone they love.

Moving forward doesn't mean forgetting. And finding happiness again doesn't mean you loved them any less.

This is a conversation for anyone who has experienced loss, is struggling with grief, or wants to better understand how to support someone going through it.

🎙️ Brews & Cruise Podcast with Chris Jacobson

New episodes every Monday at 6 AM!

🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Pandora.

💬 We'd love to hear from you: What's one thing you wish more people understood about grief?

👍 Like, comment, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who may need to hear Seth's story.

#BrewsAndCruisePodcast #SethBrantner #GriefAndLoss #LifeAfterLoss #Widower #FindingLoveAgain #GriefHealing

Steve Patterson returns to Brews & Cruise to talk about his campaign for Minnesota Governor and what’s next for the Moderate Majority of Minnesota.

After falling short of the signatures needed to get his name on the ballot, Steve explains what happened, his write-in status, and where the campaign goes from here.

We also dive into what being a political moderate actually means, including Steve’s views on immigration, gun control, marijuana, abortion, taxes, and other issues facing Minnesota.

Plus, Steve opens up about mental health, the stigma around getting help, his concerns with the current mental healthcare system, and we lighten things up with what’s happening with comedy at Lansing Corners.

Whether you agree with him, disagree with him, or fall somewhere in the middle, this is an open conversation about Minnesota politics and giving voters another option.

Moderate Majority of Minnesota

https://moderatemajorityofmn.org

Big changes are happening in Winona!

This week on the Brews & Cruise Podcast, we’re joined by Alex from Winona Axe & Arcade, along with Nikos and Felicia from DGE (Dingee Group Enterprises).

We talk about the new ownership at Winona Axe & Arcade, changes coming to the venue, axe throwing, leagues, and what they have planned for the future.

Then we dive into everything happening with DGE — from the 420 Event and Back 2 School Event to The Foodery, the upcoming Y2K Event, November Food Drive, their work with Tree Huggers Cannabis products, and plans surrounding a local Youth Center.

It’s an episode packed with local business, upcoming events, community involvement, and big ideas for Winona!

Grab a brew (or THC drink), kick back, and enjoy!

One swing. One perfect shot. $5,000 on the line. ⛳💰

In this episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, I’m telling the full story of my first-ever hole-in-one—and the shot just happened to be worth $5,000!

It all happened during a golf tournament supporting Doc’s Recovery House in Rochester, Minnesota, a nonprofit recovery community organization that provides recovery housing, peer support, and resources for people pursuing recovery from substance use disorder.

I take you back to the tee box and walk through the shot, the moment we realized the ball was actually in the cup, the celebration that followed, and what it felt like realizing I had just won five grand.

But hitting the hole-in-one was only the beginning.

I also break down what happened afterward—the verification, paperwork, waiting, and the entire process of actually collecting a $5,000 hole-in-one prize.

It was already an incredible day supporting an organization doing important work in the community. Adding a once-in-a-lifetime golf shot made it a day I’ll never forget.

Learn more about Doc’s Recovery House:

Doc's Recovery House

https://www.docsrecoveryhouse.org

What’s really happening between the United States and Canada—and what does it look like from both sides of the border? 🇺🇸🇨🇦

Nearly two years after his first appearance, Paul Van Eijl returns to the Brews & Cruise Podcast for a friendly and timely conversation about the changing relationship between two longtime neighbors.

We dive into tariffs and trade, Canada’s reaction to the “51st state” comments, Canadian boycotts of American products, the U.S.–Canada trade deficit, and just how much our two countries actually rely on each other. Paul also breaks down the importance of Canadian resources like potash, aluminum, and uranium and why they matter south of the border.

This isn’t about choosing sides—it’s a conversation about understanding both sides. We compare what Canadians are seeing and hearing with the perspective here in the United States and look at where this relationship could be headed in the future.

And after the serious stuff, we lighten things up with a Canada & USA rapid-fire round! 🍻

Two countries. Two perspectives. One conversation.

Grab a drink and join us for another episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast!

Cody Zitzner joins the Brews & Cruise Podcast to talk about betting on himself, building a car detailing business, and how much his life has changed along the way.

Cody takes us back to how he got started in car detailing and what it took to turn it into a growing business. We talk about the opportunities that have come his way, the impact social media has had on his business, and the difference between where he was in 2025 and where he is today in 2026.

But this conversation goes well beyond detailing cars.

Cody opens up about his sobriety journey, the role fitness and discipline play in his life, his interests outside of work, and how family and parenthood have changed his priorities. We also talk about his ultimate goals, what success means to him today, and what he's working toward next.

Plus, we finish things off with rapid-fire questions covering cars, business, fitness, and life.

It's a conversation about entrepreneurship, personal growth, sobriety, family, and what can happen when you're willing to bet on yourself.

🎙️ Brews & Cruise Podcast

What happens when years of friendship, raising kids together, and a shared creative spirit turn into a business?

This week on the Brews & Cruise Podcast, Katie Pehler LeGere and Brenda Jacobs join us to share the story behind Little House Crafts & Gifts in Winona, Minnesota.

We go back to the beginning of Katie and Brenda’s friendship, talk about raising their families alongside one another, and hear how their journey eventually led them into business together. They also share the history of the unique building that Little House Crafts & Gifts calls home and how the shop came to be.

From friendship and family to creativity, entrepreneurship, and supporting local, this episode is a great look at the people and story behind a Winona small business.

Grab a brew and come cruise with us! 🍻🎙️

What’s it really like to chase tornadoes and severe storms across the Midwest? 🌪️

This week on the Brews & Cruise Podcast, Heartland Chasers and Northern Chasers join me to take us inside the world of storm chasing.

We talk about how they got started chasing storms, how they forecast and track severe weather, what a real chase day looks like, and some of the craziest tornado encounters and closest calls they’ve experienced.

We also get into chase busts, nighttime storm chasing, dangerous situations on the road, mistakes new storm chasers make, and what happens when the excitement of chasing a tornado turns into seeing the destruction left behind.

Plus, they share their dream chase locations, favorite storm experiences, and plenty of stories from life on the road chasing severe weather.

If you’re fascinated by tornadoes, supercells, severe weather, extreme weather, or storm chasing, this is an episode you’ll want to hear.

🍻 Grab a drink and enjoy another episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast!

Jack Hedin joins the Brews & Cruise Podcast to talk about his journey from farmer and business owner to candidate for Minnesota Senate District 26.

Jack shares the story behind Featherstone Farm and gives us a fascinating look at what it actually takes to grow, harvest, package, and ship semi-trailers of fresh vegetables to grocery stores throughout the region. We discuss why so few farms are doing this type of large-scale vegetable production in the Upper Midwest, the challenges of running a farming business, and the lessons Jack has learned through more than 30 years in agriculture.

We also dive into Jack’s decision to run for Minnesota Senate, what he’s hearing from people across Southeast Minnesota, and how his experiences in farming and business have shaped his approach to politics and public service.

From farming and small business to Minnesota politics, this is a conversation about the experiences that have taken Jack Hedin from Featherstone Farm to a run for the Minnesota Senate.

Jack Hedin Website

https://www.jackhedin.org

This week on the Brews & Cruise Podcast, we sit down with Carly Scott, owner of Carly Scott Photography, to talk about turning a passion for photography into a business.

Carly shares how her dad and daughter inspired her journey, what it’s like balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, and why staying authentic has become such an important part of her photography business.

We also talk family photography, pet photography, studio events, memorable client stories, and how Carly’s work has evolved from her first photos to where she is today.

Get to know the person behind Carly Scott Photography in this fun and genuine conversation about family, creativity, business, and life behind the lens.

Carly Scott Photography

https://www.facebook.com/carlyscottphoto

In this episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, Chris Jacobson sits down with the founder of Under The Bridge in Winona, Minnesota, to talk about her journey from performing with the Minnesota Timberwolves & Lynx 612 Crew to creating a welcoming space where adults of all experience levels can discover the joy of dance.

Kat shares the story behind Under The Bridge, why confidence matters more than perfection, how dance can positively impact mental health, and what it's really like to own and grow a small business. Whether you're a dancer, entrepreneur, or simply looking for an inspiring conversation, this episode has something for everyone.

In this episode:

• Kat's journey into professional dance

• Performing for the Timberwolves & Lynx

• The story behind Under The Bridge

• Why dance is for everyone

• Building confidence through movement

• Mental health, community, and entrepreneurship

• Dance-themed Rapid Fire questions

Grab your favorite drink, sit back, and enjoy another episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast!

What does it really take to become a successful radio DJ and wedding DJ?

In this episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, host Chris Jacobson welcomes back returning guest Paul Ebner for an inside look at life behind the microphone. Paul shares how he got started in radio, what goes on behind the scenes of a live broadcast, and how the industry has evolved over the years.

The conversation also dives into Paul's thriving wedding and event DJ business, including how he keeps dance floors packed, unforgettable wedding stories, the craziest song requests he's received, and advice for couples looking to create an unforgettable reception.

Whether you're fascinated by broadcasting, love music, are planning a wedding, or simply enjoy hearing the stories behind unique careers, this episode is packed with laughs, insight, and plenty of behind-the-scenes moments.

In this episode:

• How Paul got started in radio
• What life is really like behind the scenes
• The biggest changes in the radio industry
• Building a successful wedding DJ business
• Wedding entertainment tips and common mistakes
• Funny on-air and wedding stories
• Rapid-fire questions to wrap up the show

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the Brews & Cruise Podcast on your favorite podcast platform and leave a rating and review—it helps us reach more listeners and continue sharing great conversations with interesting people.

Thanks for listening! 🍻

Planning a wedding in 2026? This episode is packed with advice every engaged couple should hear.

Chris Jacobson sits down with professional wedding photographer Sophie Herber to discuss everything from planning the perfect wedding day timeline to what really happens behind the scenes on one of the biggest days of your life.

They also dive into the complete photography process—from the first inquiry to delivering the final gallery—the importance of preserving your memories through printed photographs, and whether hiring a second photographer is worth the investment.

Plus, Sophie shares unforgettable wedding stories, expert planning tips, and joins us for a fun rapid-fire round to wrap up the episode.

Whether you’re planning your own wedding or helping someone else prepare for theirs, this conversation is full of practical advice and insights that can make your big day even more memorable.

Topics Covered:

• Planning a wedding in 2026
• Wedding day timelines
• From inquiry to gallery delivery
• Why printed photos still matter
• The value of a second photographer
• Wedding photography tips
• Behind-the-scenes wedding stories
• Rapid Fire Round

🎙️ New episodes of the Brews & Cruise Podcast drop every Monday at 6:00 AM!

Sophie Herber Photography

https://www.facebook.com/share/1H5somnCdG/?mibextid=wwXIfr

What does it really take to build a dirt track race car? In this episode of Brews & Cruise, Chris Jacobson sits down with a passionate dirt track racer to discuss building a dirt track race car, the future of dirt track racing, sponsorships, race-day preparation, and the realities of grassroots motorsports.

If you’ve ever wondered what goes into building a competitive race car or where local dirt track racing is headed, this episode gives you an inside look from someone living it every week.

We also step away from the racetrack to talk about his first cruise vacation, getting married, balancing racing with everyday life, and what the future holds both on and off the track.

Topics Covered: 🏁 Building a dirt track race car from scratch 🏎️ What it really costs to go racing 💰 Finding and keeping racing sponsors 📈 The future of dirt track racing 🚗 Race-day preparation and behind-the-scenes stories 🚢 First cruise vacation experience 💍 Wedding plans and life outside racing 🎙️ Rapid-fire questions and fun stories

👇 Tell us in the comments: What’s your favorite dirt track class to watch?

👍 If you enjoy this episode, please LIKE the video, SUBSCRIBE to the channel, and SHARE it with your fellow racing fans. New episodes of Brews & Cruise are released every week featuring inspiring guests, local stories, business owners, athletes, and community leaders.

#DirtTrackRacing #RaceCarBuild #RaceCar #Motorsports #GrassrootsRacing #Racing #DirtTrack #BrewsAndCruise #Podcast #ChrisJacobson

Welcome back to another episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast!

In this episode, host Chris Jacobson sits down with John Hazelton, a candidate for Winona County Sheriff, for an in-depth conversation about his career in law enforcement, years of experience as an instructor, leadership philosophy, and why he’s running to serve the people of Winona County.

Throughout the episode, John discusses:

• His background and path into law enforcement
• His experience training and mentoring other officers
• Leadership roles throughout his career
• Why he announced his Chief Deputy selection before the election
• His vision for the future of the Winona County Sheriff’s Office
• Building trust within the community
• The challenges facing law enforcement today
• A fun rapid-fire round to get to know him beyond the badge

At Brews & Cruise, our goal is to give listeners the opportunity to hear directly from community leaders, business owners, elected officials, and local personalities through long-form conversations that go beyond the headlines.

If you enjoy local podcasts and community conversations, be sure to: 👍 Like this video 💬 Leave a comment with your thoughts 📲 Subscribe for new episodes every week 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode

Listen on: • YouTube • Spotify • Apple Podcasts • Amazon Music • Pandora • iHeartRadio

Follow Brews & Cruise Podcast on social media for behind-the-scenes content, upcoming guests, and episode announcements.

#BrewsAndCruisePodcast #JohnHazelton #WinonaCounty #Sheriff #LawEnforcement #WinonaMN #Minnesota #CommunityPodcast #Leadership #Podcast #Election #PublicSafety

What does a Sheriff’s Deputy actually do? What is the role of a County Sheriff?

On this episode of Brews & Cruise Podcast, host Chris Jacobson sits down with Charles Rolbiecki, candidate for Winona County Sheriff, to discuss his career in law enforcement, the responsibilities of a Sheriff’s Deputy, and what it means to serve the people of Winona County.

Whether you’re interested in becoming a police officer, learning how a Sheriff’s Office operates, or getting to know one of the candidates for Winona County Sheriff, this episode offers an inside look at the profession and the people behind the badge.

During this conversation, we cover:

✔️ Charles Rolbiecki’s background growing up in Winona County

✔️ Why he chose a career in law enforcement

✔️ What Sheriff’s Deputies do every day

✔️ Patrol responsibilities

✔️ Jail operations

✔️ Court security

✔️ Civil process and serving legal documents

✔️ Water patrol duties

✔️ Evictions and court procedures

✔️ Building trust with the community

✔️ Leadership in law enforcement

✔️ Memorable stories from the job

✔️ Running for Winona County Sheriff

This conversation is centered on community service, leadership, and educating the public about the many responsibilities of a Sheriff’s Office. If you’ve ever wondered what happens behind the scenes in county law enforcement, this episode is for you.

👍 If you enjoy this episode, please LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to Brews & Cruise Podcast! Your support helps us continue bringing conversations with local leaders, business owners, entrepreneurs, first responders, and community members from Winona and beyond.

🎙️ Listen on:

• YouTube

• Spotify

• Apple Podcasts

• Amazon Music

• iHeartRadio

• Pandora

🌐 Learn more about Charles Rolbiecki:

https://rolbiecki4sheriff.com

📱 Follow Brews & Cruise Podcast:

Facebook: https://facebook.com/BrewsCruisePodcast

Samantha Kriesel, owner of Maid You Look Cleaning Co., joins the Brews & Cruise Podcast to share how she built a successful cleaning company, the realities of entrepreneurship, leadership, branding, and growing a small business in the La Crosse and Winona areas.

From growing up on her grandparents' farm to watching her father build his own business, Samantha explains how hard work, perseverance, and community relationships helped shape her entrepreneurial journey. We also dive into what people don't realize about owning a cleaning company, hiring and leading a team, creating a luxury client experience, expanding into new markets, and some hilarious stories from the job—including one involving a dead chicken and a mailbox.

In this episode you'll learn:

• How Maid You Look Cleaning Co. got started

• The mindset needed to build a successful small business

• Leadership and hiring strategies

• Branding and social media tips

• The truth about running a service-based business

• Expanding into Winona, Trempealeau, and Buffalo County •

Funny behind-the-scenes cleaning stories

• Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs

👍 If you enjoy conversations about entrepreneurship, small business, leadership, and local success stories, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast.