Episodes

  • #145 New Studio, New Brews, and Between the Buns
    Sep 15 2025

    Big changes and big laughs in this one! We kicked off our very first recording in the brand-new studio and celebrated with our new beer sponsor, Roaring 20s Brewing Company, featuring their smooth Mexican Lager. Joining us at the table were our returning friend Jenny and special guest Mike Breed, owner of Between the Buns. We dove into Mike’s unique business, his vision for growth, and Jenny’s past role in helping shape it. Frank stirred the pot with some playful prodding about whether Jenny might jump back in, but it all stayed lighthearted and fun. Between cold beers, fresh banter, and Mike’s first-ever podcast appearance (complete with plenty of “Between the Buns” jokes), this episode delivers laughs, insights, and a toast to new beginnings. @betweenthebuns315 @roaring20sbrewery roaring20sbrewery.com

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    1 hr and 36 mins
  • #144 Brews, Floods, and Fast Laps: Tales from NC to Watkins Glen
    Sep 8 2025

    In this episode, we’re pouring a mix of stories and sports. Fresh off a North Carolina trip, we hit up some local breweries before diving into the adrenaline of IMSA racing at Watkins Glen and the drama of Formula 1. But not everything went as planned—an unexpected storm turned our Airbnb stay into a sudden evacuation adventure. We also take a swing at baseball history with the Red Sox’s iconic “red seat” in Fenway Park and wrap up with Frank’s fiery take on the British monarchy. Grab a pint and settle in for brews, banter, and a whole lot of wild stories.

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    43 mins
  • #143 From Hawaii to Hilarity: Diapers, Drinks & Digital Rights
    Sep 1 2025

    From tropical vibes to tech vibes, this episode takes you on a riotous ride. We open with Frank fresh off his Hawaii vacation — sunshine, surf, and stories. We dive straight into our current brew, Talking Cursives, but quickly pivot into a laughter-fueled tangent about bodily functions. Yep, we’re talking poop — Frank recounts attending a “Depends diaper party,” and he dubs yours truly the “diaper sniper.” (I couldn’t stop laughing.) Then, we launch into AI territory: comparing my paid AI platform vs. Frank’s free version — with Frank insisting it’s a “she,” while I correct him: “It’s technically ‘it’.” We explore how often we each use AI, leading to a discussion of Denmark’s proposed deepfake law. This pioneering legislation would grant citizens legal ownership over their face, voice, and likeness, enabling them to demand removal of AI-generated deepfakes while allowing for parody and satire. It’s a potential game-changer for digital identity rights in Europe. Then Frank goes full rebel, mocking the AI, yelling “You are wrong and you are fired!” — pure comedy gold. We wind down with a shift to general AI and robotics: when AI merges with physical robots, it’s not just a tech shift — it could reshape humanity itself. Finally, in a sobering turn, we touch on celebrity news and deaths, landing on Elizabeth Holmes — and explore our shared reactions and reflections.

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    54 mins
  • #142 Farewell, Flavor & Friendship: Matt Hunt and the Taste of B’ville
    Aug 25 2025

    In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Matt Hunt, President of the Greater Baldwinsville Chamber of Commerce, as he shares some big news — his upcoming retirement from the role. But don’t worry, Matt isn’t going far! He’ll still be around to support and stay involved with GBCC.

    Matt reflects on his 11 impactful years with the Chamber, highlighting the dedication of its members and the strength of the Baldwinsville community. He opens up about personal challenges, the power of close friendships, and what it means to lead through hard times.

    Plus, Matt gives us the scoop on one of the community’s favorite events — Taste of B’ville, happening September 20th at Paper Mill Island. Get ready for an unforgettable evening of live music, local food, and great drinks!

    Tune in for a conversation filled with gratitude, community spirit, and a few laughs along the way.

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    1 hr and 45 mins
  • #141 Tree to Bottle: Craft Spirits with Derek Grout at Harvest Spirits
    Aug 18 2025

    In this special on-location episode of Brews & Banter, we sit down with Derek Grout, founder of Harvest Spirits Distillery, recorded right at the heart of Golden Harvest Farms in Valatie, NY.

    Golden Harvest Farms, a third-generation orchard established in 1957, is home to some of the Hudson Valley’s finest apples—and it’s here that Derek pioneered New York’s very first licensed farm distillery. From surplus apples to award-winning vodka, applejack, brandy, gin, and whiskey, Derek takes us through the tree-to-bottle journey that put Harvest Spirits on the map.

    We dig into the history of the farm, the challenges and creativity behind building a craft distillery, and the deep connection between land, legacy, and local flavor. And of course, it wouldn’t be Brews & Banter without a few tastings—join us as we sample Harvest Spirits’ signature lineup while soaking up the atmosphere of the farm and distillery.

    Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast, a fan of Hudson Valley history, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is equal parts informative, fun, and flavorful.

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    49 mins
  • #140 Laughs, Beers, and Chaos with Paul Sojdak
    Aug 14 2025

    Our good friend Paul Sojdak is back in the studio, and as always, things get wild right from the start. Between the relentless ball-busting and Paul’s nonstop jokes, we were laughing so hard we were nearly on the floor.

    We swap stories about our recent event, Hops on the Seneca, and how much fun we had with live bands, great beer and an unforgettable atmosphere. The conversation takes a few hilarious detours — from blow-up dolls to epic road trip tales — and of course, Paul’s stories about his ex-wife that had us in tears from laughing.

    This is exactly what happens when you mix good friends, good beer, and zero filter: pure, unfiltered fun.

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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • #139 Fearless & Engaged – Catching Up with Jennifer Johnson
    Aug 11 2025

    We welcome back Jennifer Johnson, owner of Fearless Fitness, for another round of laughs, stories, and real talk about health and wellness. Since her last visit, Jennifer’s been busy — and she surprised us with some exciting news… she’s engaged!

    We kick things off by catching up on life updates before diving into funny stories from the world of public gyms, the challenges of sticking to workout commitments, and why exercising in public isn’t for everyone. We also explore practical insights on nutrition and eating habits. From heartfelt discussions to unexpected surprises, this episode is all about balancing fitness goals with real life — and having fun along the way.

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    47 mins
  • #138 Scotch, Stories, and Family Secrets with Jennie Hudson
    Aug 4 2025

    In this episode, we’re joined by our good friend Jennie Hudson—a former bartender with over 20 years behind the bar. Jennie swaps beer for Scotch as we sip and share some unforgettable bar tales, dive into the rich world of whisky, and uncover the surprising story behind her daughter’s name. From fun facts about Scotch to fascinating glimpses into her family's historic lineage, this one’s packed with great stories and even better company. Pour yourself a dram and tune in!

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    2 hrs and 42 mins