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In an era where trust in government continues to wane, our conversation with Luke Merrill, interim mayor of Isanti, Minnesota, offers a refreshing perspective on what local governance can look like when driven by fiscal responsibility and genuine community engagement.

Sharing stories over Hulk Hogan's Real American Beer, Merrill breaks down how his city achieved what seems impossible in today's political climate: cutting taxes by over 15% in a single year while maintaining essential services. It wasn't through slashing programs but by applying common-sense household financial principles to government spending.

"You have to think of everything in a financial light," Merrill explains, detailing how simply questioning standard procedures saved taxpayers nearly $1 million through more efficient bidding processes and technological solutions. His approach challenges the notion that government budgets must perpetually increase, demonstrating that asking thoughtful questions can lead to significant savings.

What truly sets Merrill's leadership style apart is his commitment to transparency and accessibility. Council meetings are now livestreamed, increasing viewership by 3,000%, and he's made himself available to constituents through multiple channels. This openness has transformed how citizens engage with local issues, creating a more collaborative governance model.

The conversation takes fascinating turns through economic development, community initiatives, and the power of volunteer groups to provide amenities without burdening taxpayers. Whether discussing the challenges of infrastructure maintenance or innovative approaches to zoning regulations, Merrill consistently returns to his core philosophy: government should provide essential services while allowing citizens to determine their own priorities.

Whether you're politically engaged or typically avoid such discussions, this episode offers valuable insights into how local government directly impacts your daily life and wallet. Listen now to discover why, as Merrill puts it, "It all starts local."

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Discover the passion and perseverance behind Thunder Brothers Brewery with our special guest, Warren Thunstrom, co-owner of the brewery alongside his brother Brett. Warren takes us on a journey from their humble beginnings in a garage to the creation of their renowned Hatchet Man IPA, inspired by a beloved but discontinued beer. Along the way, we uncover the gritty determination that fueled their adventure, the challenges of finding a community-rooted location, and the unexpected coincidences that make their story so personal.

Join us as Warren shares the intricacies of balancing innovation with tradition in the craft beer world. From the art of brewing "lawnmower beers" to the logistics of ingredient sourcing, Warren provides a candid look at the vibrant craft beer culture. We dive into memorable mishaps, like the infamous burnt batch experiment, and discuss the role of community feedback in shaping Thunder Brothers' flavorful brews. Warren's insights offer a behind-the-scenes look at the joys and hurdles of running a brewery.

The conversation also veers into industry trends, exploring the evolving dynamics between alcohol and marijuana and their implications for the brewing community. Warren highlights the importance of creative collaborations and staying true to their community-centered approach as they plan for future growth. This episode is packed with enlightening stories and practical advice for anyone curious about the craft beer scene or considering their own brewing journey. Cheers to an episode that promises both entertainment and education!

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Imagine getting an unexpected phone call at work that sets you on a path to become an award-winning pitmaster—this is exactly what happened to Clint from PeetzOut BBQ, our first in-studio guest on the podcast. Join us as Clint shares his fascinating journey into the world of competition barbecue, sparked by a surprise gift from his wife. We uncover the secrets behind his mouthwatering BBQ creations that have captivated judges and enthusiasts alike, all while enjoying a Kolsch-style brew from Utepils, stepping boldly out of his usual beer preferences.

Throughout this lively episode, we explore the intricate art of barbecue with Clint, delving into everything from wood selection to the nuances of competition etiquette. The camaraderie and humor in the competitive barbecue scene shine through Clint's stories, offering listeners a rich tapestry of tips and personal anecdotes. Whether you're a seasoned barbecue veteran or just starting out, Clint's insights into the world of smoking meats and the vibrant community that surrounds it will inspire and entertain.

We also take a sip of beer culture, discussing the evolving trends in brewing and how these delectable drinks complement the smoky, savory world of barbecue. From chaotic family prep for competitions to discovering the best rubs and sharing smoking tips, this episode is packed with laughter, learning, and a celebration of great food and drink. Don't miss this chance to bond over the shared passions that bring us together—barbecue, beer, and a hearty dose of fun.

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Have you ever faced the challenge of opening a champagne-like cork on a Belgian beer bottle without accidentally losing an eye? Our latest episode takes you on a spirited journey to Belgium as we share our humorous attempts to tackle the potent Delirium beer from the Huyghe Brewery. We recount personal stories of connections to Belgium and the Netherlands, including a memorable cheese market festival that brought out our inner Wisconsinites. Thanks to a generous listener's gift, we dive into our tasting experiences, offering opinions on Delirium Tremens and its intriguing twist on a German Marzen-style beer.

Fitness and fun unite in the Brewery Running Series, where the joy of a 5K run culminates with craft beer in hand. Founded by the dynamic duo, Morgan and Nate, these events have spread across 12 states, emphasizing community spirit by supporting local organizations. We discuss how these lively post-run parties at breweries have become a haven for runners and beer lovers alike. Meanwhile, our taste buds tackle the unique flavor profile of Delirium Tremens, sparking a lively debate on its suitability as a summer beverage.

Our conversation takes a hop over to the historic Hoi Ha brewery. With roots stretching back to 1654, this brewing institution has stories to tell, from ancient traditions to cutting-edge technology. Celebrating the contributions of women in brewing, we spotlight Deliria, a beer crafted by talented female brewers. And for the sports enthusiasts, we provide an entertaining analysis of the Minnesota Vikings' unexpected quarterback success with Sam Darnold, pondering the strategic decisions that shook up the NFL. Join us as we pour over the complex blend of beer, football, community, and history that makes this episode a flavorful experience.

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If you've ever wondered how to turn winter woes into warm, beer-infused conversations, grab a seat in our cozy Minnesota studio. With snowflakes piling up outside, we swap tales of snowblowers, tractors, and an inventive attachment that transforms a weed whip into a motorized snow shovel. Meanwhile, we're mentally basking in the Hawaiian sun with a taste test of Kona Brewing Company's finest. From the Big Wave golden ale to the tropical notes of Hanalei Island IPA, these brews are the perfect antidote to winter blues, transporting us to sun-kissed beaches even as the snowflakes fall.

Join us as we recount a memorable trip from seven years ago, tied to a historic event, and the earworm of a concert that never came to be. As we savor the unexpected sweetness of the Gold Cliff IPA, a spirited debate ignites over the authenticity of Kona's mainland production in Oregon and New Hampshire. And just like that, nostalgia ushers us back to the days of "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?", weaving a tapestry of past and present. With a beer in hand, get ready for a journey that blurs the line between snowy chores and tropical daydreams.

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What happens when you mix a love for beer with a passion for music and spontaneous travel adventures? Join us on a nostalgic journey through our podcast memories as we sip on Moosehead Canadian Lager, the beverage that started it all for us over a year ago. Discover how this smooth lager became a staple in our home bar, sparking countless conversations about the diverse world of beers. We promise you'll gain insights into the art of brewing and the challenges of picking a favorite amidst the wide array of styles available.

Our journey doesn't stop at hops and barley; we venture into the world of evolving musical landscapes, spotlighting the transformation of bands like Linkin Park after the tragic loss of Chester Bennington. Uncover the bold moves and creative decisions that bands face when lineup changes occur, and hear about the excitement surrounding Linkin Park's new female vocalist. We've seen the enthusiasm firsthand, with sold-out shows and an energetic fanbase eager to embrace this new chapter. It's a testament to the resilience and artistry that keep the heart of music beating strong.

But wait, there's more! Join us as we recount our whirlwind escapades in Germany, where Oktoberfest's vibrant atmosphere left an indelible mark on our souls. Between the camaraderie of singing along with strangers to the delight of savoring Berlin's culinary diversity, our tales paint a vivid picture of German culture. From driving on the Autobahn to strolling through medieval Rothenburg, our adventures were filled with spontaneity and discovery. As we plan future episodes, we're excited to take you on a global beer exploration, featuring unique brews and perhaps even seltzers and CBD beers. Cheers to the journey ahead!

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Ever tried working with epoxy for the first time and felt like you were in over your head? Shawn certainly did, and he takes us through every sticky (literally) moment of crafting our podcast's new saloon-style table. From battling uncooperative tape to finally achieving a mostly glassy finish, the journey was as entertaining as it was educational. Grab a beer and listen as we chat about the lessons learned and how a couple of cold ones might have influenced some creative decisions along the way.

Speaking of beer, we take you on a delicious adventure through local fairs and craft beer tastings. Our buddy's triumph at the Anoka County Fair sets the stage for a broader conversation about the unique offerings of the Texas State Fair and our ambitious plans for a world tour of fairs. Our beer musings also take a detour to Petaluma, California, where we explore the origins of Lagunitas IPA and dabble in some hilarious banter about beer-tasting gadgets, hand modeling, and David Duchovny's unforgettable roles. It's a whirlwind of flavor, nostalgia, and laughter in the world of craft beer.

Our Lagunitas journey doesn't stop there; we dive into the brewery's history and its impressive global expansion. From Tony McGee's humble homebrew beginnings to creative ventures like cannabis-infused drinks, Lagunitas has never shied away from innovation. We share tales of Oktoberfest preparations, memorable moments like the clever "Lagunitas Sucks" release, and the joy of combining outdoor activities with a refreshing IPA. Whether you're a beer aficionado or just love a good story, this episode has something to tickle your taste buds and your funny bone.

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Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes in sports broadcasting or what it takes to transform a struggling pizza joint into a renowned brewery? Tune in to hear our personal stories and professional experiences, from thrilling volleyball matches to unforgettable nights at the Target Center and Xcel Energy Center. You'll get an insider's look at the exhilarating highs and unpredictable challenges of covering various sports, setting the stage for our exciting beer segment.

Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Pizza Port Brewing, a California-based brewery that started from humble beginnings. Siblings Gina and Vince Marsaglia turned a struggling pizza restaurant into a pioneering force in San Diego's craft beer scene. Discover how their homebrewing experiments evolved into a successful business with multiple brewpubs across California. We reflect on the broader craft beer landscape of the late 80s and early 90s, pondering the factors that fueled the microbrewery explosion during that era.

To wrap things up, we dive into the fascinating world of NFL quarterbacks, focusing on players like Joe Flacco and Deshaun Watson. We analyze their career trajectories, performances, and the financial dynamics within NFL teams that impact player adaptability and team resources. From the strategic implications of high player salaries to the merits of Pizza Port's Mongo Double India Pale Ale, this episode serves up a rich blend of sports insights and craft beer appreciation that you won't want to miss!

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Ever wondered how a homebrewer can turn a passion into one of America’s largest craft breweries? Join us for an incredible journey as we unravel the inspiring story of Ken Grossman and the birth of Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. You'll learn about the trials and triumphs of starting a brewery on a shoestring budget, from repurposing dairy equipment to perfecting iconic brews like the Celebration IPA. We promise an episode brimming with fascinating insights into the craft beer revolution and the determination that fuels it.

But that's not all—get ready for some Olympic fever as we share our obsessions with quirky events like 3x3 basketball and kayaking. Hear our takes on memorable Olympic moments, including a Turkish shooter who gave us hitman vibes and a laid-back competitor who snagged a silver medal with one hand in his pocket. Plus, don’t miss our plans for an epic road trip to Oktoberfest in Munich, complete with live updates and a hilarious promise of seeing Andy in lederhosen!

Sustainability and innovation are also on tap as we explore how Sierra Nevada leads the way with green initiatives like hydrogen fuel cells and solar panels. Learn about their LEED Platinum Certified brewery in North Carolina and how they turn used cooking oil into biodiesel. We’ll even throw in a wild story about cocaine-filled sharks off the coast of Brazil and reflect on how well barbecue pairs with a cold Summerfest lager. Get ready for a rollercoaster of beer talk, Olympic banter, and unexpected tales. Cheers!