Brews & Cruise Podcast

Traveling with a baby… on a cruise?! 😳🚢👶In this episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, Chris and Steph share what it was REALLY like taking their 9-month-old on a cruise vacation—from the airport chaos and flight experience to sleepless nights, diaper blowouts, and everything in between.If you’re a parent (or soon-to-be parent) wondering what it’s like to travel with a baby, this episode is packed with real, unfiltered stories, lessons learned, and tips we wish we knew before going.🍻 What We Get Into:Flying with a baby (what to expect + what surprised us)Packing for a 9-month-old (what you actually need vs don’t)Cruise life with a baby—schedule, sleep, and flexibilityThe biggest mistakes we made 😅Funny and chaotic moments along the wayThe moments that made it all worth it👶 Is It Worth Traveling with a Baby?We break down the honest answer—and whether we’d do it again.🎙️ About Brews & CruiseReal conversations with real people—covering everything from life experiences and parenting to local stories, business, and beyond… all from our speakeasy-style studio in Winona, Minnesota.⭐ Enjoying the Podcast?Make sure to follow, download, and share this episode with someone who’s thinking about traveling with a baby📱 Follow & Connect Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Brews-Cruise-Podcast-61554026083125/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brews_and_cruise_podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brewsandcruisepodcast Sponsor Jacobson Real Estate Co. https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.com Brews & Cruise Podcast https://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

This week on Brews & Cruise Podcast, host Chris Jacobson sits down with two Southern Minnesota business owners who are making an unexpected move—running for Governor of Minnesota.Steve Patterson, owner of Lansing Corners Bar & Grill and Nature’s Grind Coffee Co, and JT Thompson, owner of Lucky Penny Garage, share their journey from small business ownership into the Minnesota governor race as part of the new political party, the Moderate Majority of MN.In this episode, we dive into their backgrounds in the bar, coffee, and automotive industries, what led them to enter politics, and how their real-world business experience shapes their approach to leadership. It’s a laid-back, honest conversation that blends entrepreneurship, local stories, and big-picture thinking—all with the signature Brews & Cruise vibe.Whether you're interested in Minnesota politics, small business, or just enjoy real conversations over a cold drink, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Moderate Majorityhttps://moderatemajorityofmn.orghttps://www.facebook.com/people/Moderate-Majority-Of-Minnesota/61579587166873/SponsorJacobson Real Estate Co.https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.comBrews & Cruise Podcasthttps://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

In this episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, host Chris Jacobson sits down with Lacey Korb, a haunted tour guide who shares the eerie history and chilling stories hidden throughout Winona, Minnesota.From historic homes to century-old cemeteries and the city’s infamous red light district, Winona has a past filled with mystery, tragedy, and unexplained encounters. Lacey takes us behind the scenes of her haunted tours and reveals the stories that many locals have never heard.During the conversation we explore:👻 The haunted history of the Bunnell House 🪦 Paranormal legends connected to Woodlawn Cemetery ⚰️ Stories from St. Mary’s Cemetery in Winona 🔥 The dark past of Winona’s historic Red Light District 🏚️ The eerie history surrounding Pieces of the Past in downtown Winona 👁️ Real ghost stories and unexplained experiences reported around the cityIf you enjoy paranormal history, haunted locations, Midwest ghost stories, and true local legends, this episode dives deep into the stories that continue to make Winona one of the most mysterious towns along the Mississippi River.Grab a drink and join us for another episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast — where interesting conversations happen over a cold beverage.Drink: Leinenkugels Original BeerSponsor Jacobson Real Estate Co. https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.com Brews & Cruise Podcast https://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

On this week’s episode of Brews & Cruise, host Chris Jacobson sits down with Matt Schroeder, a Winona native whose career journey took him across the country working with major organizations before ultimately returning home.Matt shares his experiences working in the rapidly evolving worlds of e-commerce, digital media, and home entertainment, including projects involving Amazon, Walmart, NATO, and the United States Postal Service. He also discusses the transition from physical media like VHS and DVDs to today’s streaming platforms, and how technology has reshaped the way we consume entertainment.Today Matt works as a financial advisor and also spends time coaching high school pole vault, combining business experience with mentorship in the community.In this episode we discuss:• The evolution from VHS and DVDs to streaming media • Experiences working with Amazon and Walmart e-commerce • Consulting work involving NATO and USPS • Career pivots and becoming a financial advisor • Growing up in Winona, Minnesota and returning after 17 years • Coaching pole vault and mentoring young athletesGrab a drink and enjoy another episode of Brews & Cruise, where interesting conversations happen over a cold beverage.If you enjoy the show, please follow the podcast and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It helps more people discover the show and helps us continue sharing great conversations.Drink: Toppling Goliath Pseudo Sue Financial Services of Winona https://phillipanderson.sarep.com Sponsor Jacobson Real Estate Co.https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.com Brews & Cruise Podcast https://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

On this episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, host Chris Jacobson sits down with Amy Baker, founder of Tails of Hope, a nonprofit animal rescue that has saved over 3,000 dogs from high-risk situations.Amy shares the powerful story behind how Tails of Hope began and what inspired her to step into the world of animal rescue. She breaks down the full rescue process—from traveling south to pull dogs from overcrowded shelters, transporting them north, placing them into foster homes, and ultimately helping them find loving forever families.This conversation goes beyond the highlight reels. Amy opens up about the behind-the-scenes realities of rescue work, including the emotional challenges, the logistics most people never see, and how her team stays organized while saving hundreds of dogs each year.We also talk about an exciting new chapter for Tails of Hope: a new rescue bus that will make transports safer, more efficient, and allow the organization to save even more dogs in need.If you’re passionate about animal rescue, fostering, adoption, or nonprofit work—or you just love stories that restore your faith in humanity—this episode is for you. Tails of Hope is a nonprofit organization, and donations directly support rescue efforts and life-saving care.🎧 Listen now and learn what it truly takes to save lives—one dog at a time.Tails of Hopehttps://tailsofhopewi.orgSponsorJacobson Real Estate Co.https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.comBrews & Cruise Podcasthttps://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

This week on the Brews & Cruise Podcast, we share a powerful comeback story rooted in passion, family, and unfinished dreams.I sit down with J.R. Larkie, a lifelong musician who has been writing songs and singing since childhood—but like many creatives, life stepped in. Between serving as a volunteer firefighter, coaching baseball, and raising five kids with his amazing wife, music was put on hold.Everything changed when one simple question from one of his children reignited a fire that never truly went out.In this episode, J.R. opens up about his journey through music, including major auditions with American Idol and The X Factor, an unforgettable moment when Tim McGraw personally called him, and what it took to finally record and release his first album.This conversation is about more than music—it’s about second chances, believing in yourself, and proving that it’s never too late to chase the dream you started years ago.🎶 The dream didn’t die—it was just waiting.If you love inspiring stories, honest conversations, and real-life journeys, this episode is for you.J.R. Larkie Music https://www.facebook.com/jrlarkiemusic/ Sponsor Jacobson Real Estate Co. https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.com Brews & Cruise Podcast https://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

In this episode I sit down with the founder of Northern Pine Fitness - Matt Browne - for an honest, no-BS conversation about building a healthy lifestyle that actually lasts.We dive into his fitness origin story — how he got started, what inspired him, and how Northern Pine Fitness grew from an idea into a thriving gym. From certifications and early challenges to lessons learned along the way, this episode pulls back the curtain on what it takes to turn passion into purpose.We also tackle why most New Year’s resolutions fail by February, the biggest mistakes people make, and why motivation alone isn’t enough to create real change. You’ll hear practical advice on consistency, strength training, recovery, sleep, stress management, and accountability.On the nutrition side, we break down simple, realistic strategies for everyday life — including protein intake, portion control, hydration, meal planning, and a sustainable “no-BS” nutrition framework anyone can follow.Plus, we get real about common roadblocks like emotional eating, all-or-nothing thinking, and social pressure. We also discuss today’s trending wellness topics, including GLP-1 weight-loss medications, sauna vs. cold plunge recovery, and long-term health strategies.To wrap things up, we highlight Northern Pine Fitness’s training and nutrition programs, jump into a fun rapid-fire round, and close with encouragement for anyone ready to take control of their health.If you’re tired of starting over and want real results without gimmicks, this episode is for you.🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms. 👉 Follow, rate, and share to support the show!Northern Pine Fitnesshttps://www.instagram.com/northernpinefitness/SponsorJacobson Real Estate Co.https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.comBrews & Cruise Podcasthttps://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

In this episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, host Chris Jacobson sits down with speed puzzling expert Noelle Marshall to explore the fast-paced world of competitive jigsaw puzzling.Noelle shares how she discovered speed puzzling, why it has grown in popularity, and what it takes to compete at a high level. From training and time management to family involvement and community, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at a unique and inspiring hobby.Plus, Chris puts Noelle to the test with a live puzzle challenge — timing her as she assembles a puzzle during the interview. Can she beat the clock?You’ll also hear a special moment as Noelle surprises Chris’s daughter, Lainey (“Lil’ Brew”), with a puzzle of her own.This fun, family-friendly episode blends competition, creativity, and conversation — perfect for puzzle lovers, podcast fans, and anyone who enjoys discovering new passions.Speed Puzzling Website https://www.speedpuzzling.com Sponsor Jacobson Real Estate Co. https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.com Brews & Cruise Podcast https://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

In this episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, host Chris Jacobson sits down with Matt Tyler, lead singer of Red Dirt Road, along with their roadie Bird, for an honest look at what life is really like on the road.From nonstop travel and late nights to loading gear and playing show after show, Matt and Bird share behind-the-scenes stories about the grind, dedication, and passion it takes to build a career in music.They also talk about their upcoming album, their exciting new record deal, and the hard work it takes to keep pushing forward in today’s competitive music industry.This episode dives into: • Touring life and road stories • Behind-the-scenes band life • The reality of chasing a music dream • New music and future plans • The hustle of independent artistsIf you love music, artist interviews, and real conversations about following your passion, this episode is for you.Red Dirt Road Website https://www.reddirtroadband.comSponsor: Jacobson Real Estate Co. https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.com Brews & Cruise Podcast https://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

In this powerful and emotional episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, host Chris Jacobson sits down with a local DJ Trivia host, Jason Rusert, who opens up about his journey from being a lifelong introvert to stepping into the spotlight after a recent autism diagnosis.For most of his life, he stayed quiet, unsure of where he fit in. After finally receiving clarity through his diagnosis, everything began to make sense — the struggles, the silence, and the feeling of being different. Instead of letting it hold him back, he used it to understand himself, build confidence, and find his voice.Today, he hosts DJ Trivia nights around the area, bringing people together, creating community, and standing behind a microphone he once never imagined himself holding.This conversation dives into autism awareness, mental health, late diagnosis, personal growth, confidence building, and what it’s really like to go from the background to the spotlight.If you’ve ever felt out of place, misunderstood, or unsure of who you are — this episode is for you.🎙️ Real people. Real stories. Real growth.DJ Triviahttps://www.djtrivia.comSponsorJacobson Real Estate Co.https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.comBrews & Cruise Podcasthttps://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

On this week’s episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, host Chris Jacobson welcomes Austin Repinski, co-owner of Bacon Salt, into the Speakeasy Studio for a flavorful conversation about turning a love for bacon into a growing food brand.Austin shares the origin story of Bacon Salt, how the idea came to life, and why bacon flavor has such a loyal following. He takes listeners behind the scenes of owning a product-based business, including marketing, meeting customer demand, traveling to shows, and the real challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.The episode also dives into the fun side of the brand—creative ways to use Bacon Salt, exploring the different flavors, and the novelty gifts that have helped the company stand out.Whether you’re a foodie, aspiring entrepreneur, or just someone who believes bacon makes everything better, this episode delivers inspiration, insight, and plenty of flavor.Bacon Salthttps://baconsalt.comSponsorJacobson Real Estate Co.https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.comBrews & Cruise Podcasthttps://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

What started as a simple custom soap idea in 2018 has turned into a full-scale family business.In this episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, host Chris Jacobson sits down in the Speakeasy Studio with husband-and-wife entrepreneurs Aaron and Missy Brooks, founders of 1924 Custom Soapery in Sparta, Wisconsin.Over the past seven years, Aaron and Missy have grown their brand far beyond bars of soap—expanding into skincare, shampoo, laundry products, pet care, and more. They share the real story behind that growth: the late nights, the slow seasons, the learning curves, and the consistency it took to turn a side project into a thriving small business.🔥 In this episode, we dive into:How 1924 Custom Soapery beganExpanding from soap into full personal and home care product linesBuilding a brand while still working full-time jobsTurning a small business into a true family operation with their two sonsBalancing entrepreneurship, marriage, and parenthoodLessons learned from seven years of growth, mistakes, and momentumAaron and Missy open up about what most people don’t see—the behind-the-scenes grind of entrepreneurship, the trial and error, and the mindset required to keep showing up when progress feels slow.If you enjoy small business stories, family-run brands, Midwest entrepreneurs, and honest conversations about building something from the ground up, this episode is for you.🍻 Tune in, get inspired, and hear what it really takes to grow a business from scratch.1924 Custom Soapery https://shop1924.com/?srsltid=AfmBOordW6lwDsoojb11fKLxU26MWlhCnI-6Qdw_HCdxCYPBX00bQiEd Sponsor Jacobson Real Estate Co. https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.com Brews & Cruise Podcast https://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

In this episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, Max Ruff and Brandon Emmons join me in the Speakeasy Studio for an honest conversation about addiction, sobriety, and rebuilding life after rock bottom.Max shares his journey through addiction and what it’s taken to maintain over a decade of sobriety, while Brandon opens up about navigating recovery in his first year clean. Together, they reflect on the downward spiral that led them to rock bottom—and the turning point that changed everything.Through faith, finding God, and committing to personal growth, both men have restored their health, rebuilt their lives, and rediscovered purpose.This episode explores:Addiction and recoveryLong-term sobriety vs early recoveryFaith and spiritual transformationHitting rock bottom and starting overHope, healing, and second chancesA powerful, honest conversation for anyone in recovery, supporting a loved one, or looking for inspiration to start the new year with perspective and purpose.SponsorJacobson Real Estate Co.https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.comBrews & Cruise Podcasthttps://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

From Sobriety to the Kitchen: Building Average Dad CookingIn this end-of-year episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, Brandon Osburn of the Average Dad Cooking Channel joins the Speakeasy Studio for an honest and inspiring conversation about rebuilding life one day—and one meal—at a time.Brandon shares his journey through sobriety and fitness, how cooking became an outlet for creativity and healing, and how being a dad of three led him to create the Average Dad Cooking Channel. What started as simple, relatable meals for his family has grown into a loyal online community and brand built on authenticity—not perfection.We dive into fatherhood, discipline, content creation, brand partnerships, and what’s next for the Average Dad Cooking Channel, while keeping it real about setbacks, consistency, and showing up every day.If you’re a parent, a creator, or someone looking for motivation and perspective heading into the new year, this episode will hit home.🎧 Pour a drink, press play, and finish the year with a conversation about purpose, progress, and finding joy in the everyday.Average Dad Cooking Channel https://linktr.ee/TheAverageDad?utm_source=linktree_profile_shareSponsor Jacobson Real Estate Co. https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.com Brews & Cruise Podcast https://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

What does it really take to launch a marketing campaign that captures attention — and what happens when it suddenly takes on a life of its own?On this episode of the Brews & Cruise Podcast, Cynthya Porter joins the Speakeasy Studio for a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation about marketing strategy, storytelling, and the pressure that comes with viral success. Cynthya shares her journey in marketing, the award-winning work she’s been recognized for, and how strategic thinking plays a bigger role than most people realize.We dive deep into the now-infamous “Miami of Minnesota” campaign — how it was created, why it exploded online, and what most people don’t know about what happened after it went viral.The conversation also turns to current events in Winona, as Cynthya offers insight into the ongoing Boathouse Restaurant controversy, discussing messaging, perception, and the realities of navigating public opinion when emotions run high.This episode blends marketing expertise, local insight, and honest conversation you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you’re into branding, viral campaigns, or understanding the stories behind the headlines, this is a must-listen.Drink: Truly SeltzerCynthya Porterhttps://www.cynthyaporter.comMiami of Minnesota https://www.miamiofminnesota.comSponsorJacobson Real Estate Co.https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.comBrews & Cruise Podcasthttps://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

This week, Dan Wilson joins me in the Speakeasy Studio for a timely conversation about the future of housing in Winona, Minnesota.We dive into the real challenges facing our local housing market — from affordability and availability to zoning and long-term community growth. Dan shares his perspective on what’s working, what isn’t, and what needs to change to ensure Winona remains a place people can afford to live, work, and raise a family.Beyond housing policy, Dan opens up about his personal background and what led him into public service, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the person behind the platform.We also look ahead to what’s next, as Dan explains why he’s running for the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2026, what motivates him, and how he hopes to serve the community moving forward.If you care about housing, local leadership, and the future direction of Winona, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Dan Wilson for Househttps://www.danwilsonforhouse.comSponsorJacobson Real Estate Co.https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.comBrews & Cruise Podcasthttps://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

In this week’s episode, Paul Ebner joins me to break down everything surrounding John Cena’s final WWE match and the end of one of the most iconic careers in wrestling history. We dive deep into Cena’s upcoming retirement match, the latest WWE rumors, and our predictions for who will become John Cena’s final opponent in the ring.Paul and I also reveal our Top 5 John Cena moments of all time, highlighting his greatest matches, unforgettable promos, championship wins, surprise returns, and the career-defining moments that made Cena a global WWE superstar. From his debut, to the “Doctor of Thuganomics” to his biggest WrestleMania performances, we revisit the moments fans still search for today.This episode is packed with WWE analysis, career highlights, and speculation surrounding Cena’s last match—perfect for wrestling fans, WWE news followers, and anyone tracking WWE 2025 storylines, WWE retirement matches, or John Cena career highlights.If you’re looking for a full breakdown of John Cena’s final chapter with maximum insight, nostalgia, and fan-driven predictions, this episode delivers.Drink: Stone Cold IPASponsor Jacobson Real Estate Co. https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.com Brews & Cruise Podcast https://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

Buckle up, because this week’s episode is a wild ride from the casino floor to the car lot and everywhere in between! Joey Terhune joins me inside the Speakeasy Studio to share his journey—from dealing cards in Waterloo, Iowa, to selling cars in Colorado, to becoming a finance manager in the Dahl Auto organization right here in the Midwest. Joey breaks down just how intricate and skill-heavy it is to become a certified casino dealer, and then dives into the world of automotive finance—what he does, how he helps customers, and what really goes into the packages and protections offered when you buy a vehicle. And of course… Joey being Joey, we couldn’t get through the episode without some absolutely hilarious impressions and plenty of laughs. His energy, storytelling, and humor make this episode fun, fast-paced, and incredibly enjoyable—while still giving listeners a deeper look into how the car sales industry truly works. If you love great stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and a whole lot of personality, this is one you won’t want to miss! 🚗🎲 Drink: The WisemanJoey Terhune - Dahl Hondahttps://www.dahlhondaonalaska.com/about-us-2/staff/ Sponsor Jacobson Real Estate Co. https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.com Brews & Cruise Podcast https://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

One year after his first appearance, Andre Klonecki returns to share the incredible story of losing the Blackhorse to a devastating fire—and the determination it took to rebuild from nothing. Andre opens up about the emotional journey, the behind-the-scenes challenges, community support, and the work that’s bringing the Blackhorse back stronger than ever. He also addresses circulating rumors and sets the record straight in this honest, inspiring conversation.A must-listen episode for anyone who loves comeback stories, small-business journeys, and real human resilience.Sponsor:Jacobson Real Estate Co.https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.comBrews & Cruise Podcasthttps://brewsandcruisepodcast.com

In this week’s episode of The Brews & Cruise Podcast, we’re joined virtually by the one and only MTGJedi—content creator, gamer, and now board-game designer!He takes us on a journey from his early days as a school teacher to competing in Magic: The Gathering tournaments, to building a thriving YouTube presence around the games he loves.MTGJedi also gives us an inside look at his brand-new board game, Alaria Quest—from the spark that inspired it, to the world-building, mechanics, and the creative process that brought it to life. If you love gaming, storytelling, or behind-the-scenes creator journeys, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Want to support the game?Click the link below and bring Alaria Quest to your table, or donate one to someone! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/alariaquest/alaria-quest-the-goblin-kings-dungeon?utm_source=fromme&utm_medium=personal&utm_campaign=prelaunchMTGJedi YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/MtgJediSponsor Jacobson Real Estate Co.https://jacobsonrealestatecompany.comBrews & Cruise Podcasthttps://brewsandcruisepodcast.com