Eau Claire Hometown Media

On this episode, Dr. David Usher puts on his televisioncritic hat as he discusses the show “The Cholesterol Code”, available on Amazon.  It’s a program he has found informative and one that pulls back the curtain on major health concerns in our country.  With heart disease a consistent concern, cholesterol levels are put into focus. Its an issue that can’t be “seen” as it impacts both those who are obese as well as fit athletes.Dr. Usher details the program and what he learned from it. #healthcarefinancing #healthcarecosts #medicalcost#healthpolicy #eauclairedoctors #wisconsin #cholesterol #podcastrecommendations

The 2026 marathon week is in the rear view mirror and by allaccounts it was another successful combination of events.  Race Director Abby Seipel has grabbed a water, a nap, taken a deep breath and comes on this episode to provide a recap.   Almost 5,500 individuals participated in one of the running events, plus thousands more who visited the expo and lined the race routes.She highlights the volunteers and the small army of peoplewho orchestra all the various mechanisms that create the overall weekend across multiple locations.What does the morning of the marathon look like?  How do they put all those finishing touches on the course at the last minute?How did some of the new additions (ie: the Family Fun Zone)work out and what changes are already being discussed for next year.This is an opportunity to relieve the excitement and ofcourse the energy that race weekend created in the area. #ecmarathon #eauclairemarathon#runeauclaire #eauclairewi #runwisconsin #marathontraining #runnerlife#visiteauclaire #midwestrunning #runningpodcast #eauclairepodcast

Summer break is a great time for kids to recharge but it’s areal threat that some of the knowledge they obtained in the recent school year will drift away.  Cheri Bresina and BeckyHoage with the Altoona School District discuss practical and easy ways parents can help their children ward off the dreaded “summer slide”.  From encouraging daily reading and creative writing, to turning every day activities into ways to implement math skills that were learned recently.   Even as little as five minutes of reading a day, can go a long way to maintain knowledge.We also learn how summer provides a great opportunity toshowcase how lessons learned in school can be applied in fun, meaningful ways that energize kids. Especially when it comes to math as there are many ways to engage that might not seem obvious.#educationpodcast  #thinkforyourself #crticialthinking #podcastrecommendations#eauclaire #altoona #wisconsin #summerlearning #learningthroughplay#childdevelopment #familypodcast

The City of Eau Claire might have competition for a desired city manager candidate, plus more issues at Eau Claire North.

The recent news about the release a beagles from a researchfacility in Wisconsin has populated headlines and filled hearts.  The next challenge is making sure these beagles are placed in the best possible environments.  On this informative, timely episode, Heather brings on Kerrie Hoar with Crimson Hound LLC in La Crosse, whose expertise is in re-homing rescued dogs.  Now with numerous organizations efforting to place thesereleased beagles into homes, the process to reacclimate these dogs back into home life is the new challenge.  Kerrieshares expert insight into the best ways to help rescued dogs get into everyday life, including building trust and managing fear.Whether you’re considering adoption, already fostering a rescued dog or simply passionate about animal care this is a must listen.#ridgeland #beagles #dogpodcast #dogtrainingtips #doglife #petpodcast #wisconsin #dogowners #happydogs

Its the Chippewa Valley's Game Show! Hosted by The Phoenix Taproom and Kitchen, listen to this month's episode to see which of our celebrity guests comes out on topKeenan Crawford (Poquette, Donnellan & Schlewitz)vs.Dan Hunt (Union Bateaux Soccer Club)#eauclairepodcast #gameshow #comedypodcast #downtowneauclaire #liveentertainment #podcastrecommendations

A local sophomore athlete has already committed to a Division I school, which is cause for both celebration and also reflection. Also, UWEC baseball takes a huge step forward and also some rage baiting for Brewer fans out there.

Dan talks about the upcoming flea market on May 30th at Marc-On Shooting featuring food trucks and ice cream and other booths.Followed by discussion of recent events and why he finds doing this podcast is important for getting the discussion of ideas out from a local business owner perspective.

With the culmination of another school year, its an opportunity to showcase the different paths senior students follow as they graduate as Cardinals.  Jeff brings on a series of students to highlight the various options high school brings.  From entering the military, to going into the trades, heading straight into the workforce and continuing education at two and four year colleges.  They share insight into how their time in school molded their interests and brought certain goals more into focus. Not only academic work, but the role co-curriculars helped as well.  #highschoolgraduation #graduateplans #publicschools#educationinwisconsin #insidetheclassroom #k12education #futureleaders#wisconsinschools #chippewafallsschools

In this episode of Money Donuts, the hosts explore the growing anxiety around managing money in an increasingly digital world. From online payments to app-based banking, it can sometimes feel uncertain—did that transaction go through, and is your money really safe? The team shares relatable experiences, breaks down common concerns, and offers practical tips to help you feel more confident navigating your finances in today’s digital landscape. If you’ve ever second-guessed a payment or felt uneasy about managing money online, this episode is for you.#moneypodcast #financialadvice #credittips #creditadvice #financialpodcast #moneypodcast #eauclaire #eauclairepod

The guys sit down with their buddy GUNDO who dropped a new single. Hear about the process of writing,recording and finishing a product. Check out Gundo on all platforms for their new single THE DIRT. He will also be at The Plus downtown Eau Claire May 15th featuring Valleykil.

Friend of Emilie and someone who has been active in thecommunity, Sylvia Gengenbach comes back on the program.  Grab your own cup of coffee and enjoy this conversation between two friends. She talks about her upbringing in Hayward and her father’s eccentric past.  How sheended up going to UW-Eau Claire as a history/English major over other options and why her activism in college may have drawn some unwanted attention. The difficulty she then had getting teaching jobs initially before landing in Phillips, WI, before pivoting into the real estate industry.  However, her teaching career was far from over, as well as another passion that developed…antiques. #menomonie #localhistory #wisconsinhistory#historypodcast #localevents #localpodcast

The cost, and honestly the value, of healthcare has been problematic for many.  Dr. Karley Scoles is the owner at FortisDirect Primary Care in the Chippewa Valley and she comes on this episode to discuss her direct-pay practice.  Sheexplains what direct-pay medical care is, why she left the traditional healthcare model and the benefits both patients AND providers are finding with the increase in practices like these. This is still traditional medicine, but with a different payment structure. She also shares insight into the important habits she encourages all of her patients to follow to increase their health. From physical activities to food choices. They also touch on the legal angle of healthcare, including touchy topics like medical decisions.#directprimarycare #directpayhealthcare #healthcarepodcast #eauclairewi #chippewavalley #wisconsinpodcast #primarycare #affordablehealthcare

This month, Troy Bostrom and Jarid Bresina preview ShowtimePro Wrestling’s Last Call: Burgers, Brews and Bodyslams which will be an outdoor show at the Nichol Inn in Knapp on Saturday May 16th. Free admission which a great card line-up that Troy and Jarid layout. The cardincludes some familiar names and some fun storylines.Later, we dive more into how Jarid (aka: Kevin Hawk) gotinto the wrestling business. How he went from fan to participant as an adult. And did Scott just volunteer himself to be knocked out!?!?#prowrestling #indiewrestling #prowrestlingpodcast #independentwrestling #wrestlingtalk #sportsentertainment #wisconsinpodcast #eauclairepodcast

The Chippewa Valley's Talk Show

Summer camp is a staple of youth and on this episode welearn about how one area business plays a role. Mark Sieglaff is with C&N Manufacturing, which is a company that builds trunks and for years has been specializing in building them for summer campers.  With some camps lasting several weeks at a time, the trunks needed by the kids attending them are ultra-important.In the process we learn more about a local business that hasa national following.Speaking of staples, we enjoy a local staple for this week’sbeverage choice too.#summercamp #summercampsupplies #trunksforsummercampers #wisconsinbusiness #westernwisconsinbusiness #eauclaire #chippewavalley #businesspodcast #wisconsinpodcast

Society has a fascination with extreme crime and that draw is a reason why the Pablo Center recently SOLD OUTa unique event.  Serial Killers with Dr. Scott Bohn, was an opportunity for hundreds to digest the lessons from  a criminologist. Dr. Bohn studies serial killers, gaining insight not only into the reasons why they committed these crimes but also how the media came to portray them as celebrity monsters. Kathy Wright chats with Dr. Bohn about his career research, giving us a small sample of what the audience comes away from the presentation with.#truecrime #serialkillers #crimepodcast #liveevents#livemusic #localentertainment #pablocenter #podcastrecommendation  #supportlocalmusic  

For the first time in the team's 20-year history, the Eau Claire Express are being run by a native of Chippewa Falls. Jake Horan took over as the team's general manager this winter, bringing him back home after spending a few years cutting his teeth in minor league baseball management in Iowa. He details his journey and what he has in store for the area's baseball team.#sportsbusiness #minorleaguebusiness #businessofbaseball #businessofsports #podcast #chippewafalls #eauclaire

After years of serving delicious grinders and pizza in thearea for decades, the team at Mancino’s is now serving up  an all-new podcast.  On the debut episode, Ryan and Samantha bring on Regis Athletic Director Michael McHorney. They take him through 10 questions at the table, examples including:-           How did he end up with the AD position role atRegis, after many years with area non-profits-           What was his own experience as a “worker alum”of Mancino’s-           What, if any, sports is a clear-favorite of his-           Does he have a “go to” order when he visitsMancino’s

The spotlight shines on the incredible impact of the Community Foundation of Chippewa County, with director Jill Herriges and board member Craig Toycen stoppingby. The organization is celebrating its 25th year of existence. From supporting meaningful projects to connecting donors with causes that matter, they are a driving force for positive change in Chippewa. We learn how they differ from a typical charity. Some examples of the impact they’ve had locally. Howpeople can get involved?#northernwisconsinstatefair #chippewafallswi #supportlocal#giveback #makingadifference

Good friends, sophomore Margaret Bohl and senior AvoryAnderson take over this episode.  They focus on Avory’s participation with and love of track and field.  She explains the nuances of discuss, her favorite event, and how being a senior she has taken on a leadership role. In addition, she shares the story of missing an event once, and the practical reason she now wears bright pink.#catholicpodcast  #faithandlearning #catholicschools#educationwithpurpose #chippewavalley #wisconsinschools

The brand of a business is intricate to their overallsuccess, and that is the expertise of Beth Meierstein. She is a 26 year veteran at FirstNet Impressions, helping to create logos, websites and overall “looks” for companies of all sizes in the Chippewa Valley.   What comes first, the logo or the brand?  What are things owners need to think about asthey begin to create a brand?  How does someone build a timeless brand that will stand the test of time?And after all these years, what still excites her to workwith local businesses?#logodesign #brandidentity #logoinspiration #smallbusinessbranding #marketing design #branding #eauclaire #eauclairepodcast

The Eau Claire Marathon and Eau Claire School Board are on the docket today.

Thunderstorms, fireworks, vet visits, strangers at the door-life can be scary for our four-legged friends sometimes.  Heather talks about how to help your dog navigate fearful moments with patience, understanding and practical strategies. Why do dogs get scared? How do we recognize signs of stress in our dog? What are ways to ease anxiety and build confidence in particular scenarios.#dogpodcast#dogtrainingtips #doglife #petpodcast #wisconsin #dogowners #happydogs   Thunderstorms, fireworks, vet visits and more can makelife scary for dogs.  Heather is here toprovide practical ways to ease circumstances that may be sources of anxiety foryour dog.  #dogpodcast#dogtrainingtips #doglife #petpodcast #wisconsin #dogowners #happydogs

Step into the vibrant world of regional visual art in this episode as we get a preview of the Arrivals andDepartures juried art show coming to the Heyde Center this summer.  Chairperson Lindamerry Udell shares how thisshow works, with submissions “juried” before being selected and ultimately judged at the end. She explains why the risk of rejection shouldn’t scare off artists as amateurs and pros alike are encouraged.Whether you’re an artist, art lover, or just curious about how a “juried” art show works, this is an episode for you.#chippewafalls #gochippewa#supportlocalartists #wisconsinart #creativewisconsin #localartscene #creativevoices #gallerylife #juriedartshow

Preparing kids for the next stages in life is a main tenant of the Boys and Girls Club and we dive deeper into that what Tatjana Trommershauer.  She is the Career & Workforce Development Coordinator at the club and runs the Be Great Graduate Program within Eau Claire Middle Schools.The Be Great Graduate Program is aimed towards preventing dropout and aimed at those at risk.  From academic to emotional to social problems, the issue of dropout does exist in our area.  She explains what the program looks like, the type of support they provide and how they work in concert with local schools.#eauclairepodcast#eauclairepod #boysandgirlsclub #eauclairebgc #youthleadership #communityimpact#investinkids

On this week's episode of Marcon Unleashed, Dan starts by talking about his experience meeting up with one of the current candidates running for sheriff in the next election. Next he mentions the job opening that he has for his landscaping business, and the upcoming flea market on May 30th. The first news topic that Dan covers is the recent attempted assassination of president Donald Trump, and the lack of security that was present that night. Following thatconversation Dan touches on the recent stepping down of the Eau Claire city planner, and upcoming sheriff elections in the Eau Claire County area.

On this episode we discuss the opportunities and challenges of starting and funding a business from bootstrapping to family borrowing to bank loans.  We get a first-hand account, from Hunter Custer, who is a local entrepreneur and the proprietor of Custer Cones Ice Cream shops in the area. At the age of 18, Hunter began selling ice cream at a Chippewa Falls location and has since expanded. -           Where did he get the initial start-up financing?-           What challenges were unique to him, starting ata young age-           The use of credit-           What tools has he found valuable to get cashflow consistently

How long does it really take to build or rebuild your credit? In this quick Donut Hole episode, we break down realistic timelines and what actually makes a difference. You can see results in as little as six months, but those early gains can be fragile if you’re not careful. You’ll also learn how to maintain your credit over time, even after paying off big loans like a house or car. From keeping credit cards active to managing utilization, this episode is packed with simple tips to help you build, protect, and maintain a strong credit score.#moneypodcast #financialadvice #credittips #creditadvice #financialpodcast #moneypodcast #eauclaire #eauclairepod

Derek's weekly look at sports from a local angle and the perspective of a teenager.

Zach talks about summer lovin and Nick talks about the loss of his friend. They bring in bass player Rick Anderson who’s been playing in the area for over 50 years. Hear about teenage pyrotechnics, life as a traveling rock band in an international beer truck, and some wild gig stories. Definitely gonna need a part 2 as he still had notes left. Definitely a fun one!#localmusic #eauclairemusic #livemusicscene #songwriters #musiclovers #tuneinlocal #musicpodcast #localbands

What does it take to lead a police department and serve agrowing community.  Eau Claire Chief of Police Matt Rokus joins Brit and Susie to talk about public safety, communitypartnerships, leadership and the evolving role of policing.  He started in animal control before rising up the ranks over the course of a nearly 30 year career with the Eau Claire PoliceDepartment.  How do social issues including poverty, food insecurity,substance abuse and more impact community safety and the role of policing? Equally, the importance of maintaining the physical and emotional health of the entire department staff. #EauClaire #eauclairepodcast #publicsafety #communitypolicing

Back to the pitch as spring brings the girls soccer season.  Altoona head coach Jeremy Gilbert, along with midfielder Lulu Strehlo discuss the current season.  It’s a season of transition for the Railroaders with plenty of turnover and we learn what that has been like as the program’s strong foundation has been a huge benefit.#highschoolsports #girlssoccer #highschoolsoccer#podcastrecommendations #youthsports #sportsinwisconsin #localpodcast

The Chippewa Valley's Talk Show

Connect, Grow and Lead.  We shine a spotlight on the importance of the Chippewa Valley Young Professionals organization with Kyle Standen joining Mike and Scott on thisepisode.  Kyle is a certified architect at Wendel Companies and after learning the process one most go through to earnthe title, we then dive into the presence of the young professionals locally.  Why people should sign up andthe real benefits that can be seen?  How has the way members utilize the club changed over the years?#youngleaders #youngprofessionals #businesstips #businessadvice #communicationadvice

The Family Support Center in Chippewa Falls has focused fordecades on empowering people in the area to have safe and healthy relationships. Outgoing Executor Director Geri Segal and incoming Executive Director Jeni Haddad detail the vital role they play in strengthening families across the community. Not only do we explore the work they do, but also thetransition process as Geri hands the reigns to longtime staff member Jeni.#eauclaire #eauclairewi #localpodcast #domesticviolenceprevention#healthyrelationships #podcastrecommendations

Get ready to fire up your appetite as BBQ Fest returns tothe fairgrounds Saturday May 16th.  The event has grown to include 18 teams and is now sanctioned by the KC BBQ Society.  We’ll break down what you can expect, and learn more about the world of competitive BBQ with Deano Tinjumof Big Ten Bones out of Stanley.  He details how he has cooked across the country, his favorite meats and maybe justa couple of his secrets.#bbqfest #northernwisconsinstatefair #chippewafallswi#bbqlovers #smokedmeat #grillmaster #saucebosss

The unexpected resignation of Stephanie Hirsch headlines this episode.Scott also discusses an idea the city is pitching that he likes but apparently many of you don't.

Scott has a big issue with local baseball and dives into it here

On today’s episode of Marcon Unleashed, Dan starts by talking about the sheriff primaryelections that will be coming up soon, and the research you should do to inform your vote. Hetalks about his recent suggestion to run for state senate, but other factors make it unlikely for itto be worth it. To finish off the episode Dan talks a little bit about Marcon’s new online classeson their website, the flea market coming to Marcon on October 30th, and a job opening forDan’s landscaping company.

Turn up the volume and soak in the summer vibes as this episode dives into two of the Chippewa Valley’s biggest music celebrations:  Country Jam USA and Summer Jam EC. We break down what makes each festival a can’t miss experience for travelers and locals alike with Emily and Jake from the EC Event District team.  While some other music events nationwide are struggling, they are thriving here and we learn a little bit of the recipe to the “secret sauce” they have.Emily and Jake take us through how these events have become regional draws but remain popular for locals.  The way events like these have evolved significantly over the last few years to stay on top of trends.  Tips for those attending for the first time and which acts they are excited to personally see this summer.#countryjamusa #summerjamec #eauclairwi #chippewavalley #livemusiclovers #wisconsinevents#wisconsinmusicfestival #liveentertainment #outdoorconcerts #turnitup

In this quick Donut Hole episode, we break down what actually moves your credit score—and how to improve it fast. From payment history to credit utilization, our experts explain the biggest factors that can help (or hurt) your score. You’ll also learn practical strategies like paying down credit cards or using a consolidation loan to boost your credit if you’re preparing for a major purchase like a home. Whether you’re building credit or trying to level up quickly, this bite-sized episode gives you simple, actionable tips you can start using today.#moneypodcast #financialadvice #credittips #creditadvice #financialpodcast #moneypodcast #eauclaire #eauclairepod

With the MLB season a month old, Derek takes a look at the early storylines that are developing.

A unique audience experience comes to The Heyde Center onMay 8th with Stool Pigeon Pete Dinner Theatre EXPERIENCE.  Eau Claire husband and wife team of Jim and Jane Jeffries have written and directed this musical comedy about peoplesneaking alcohol into a speakeasy.  Jerry Way will be leading a live jazz band for the performance too.  The show will be accompanied by dinner.  Jim and Jane tell us about what the show is, where the idea came from and with careers that have been used nationwide, what the opportunity to showcase locally means.#gochippewacounty #musical #dinnertheatre

Ron Poquette is one of those Eau Claire legends whosestory never gets old.  From him athletic prowess at Memorial High School to eventually working at a law firm that wouldone day have his name attached.  We catch up with Ron on this latest episode (including how he almost played pro baseballtoo like his brother Tom).#eauclaire #eauclairewi #podcast #podcastrecommendation #localstories

Moving doesn’t have to mean chaos, cardboard avalanches and questioning every life choice you’ve ever made.  Sally Flinck from Two Men and a Truck has seen it all, and talks with Kaylynn Winegar about advice for those readying for a move.  From packing hacks that won’t drive you crazy to what to do on moving day.  Two Men and Truck is a nationwide business with a significant local presence, and can help move across the street or across the country. #localbusiness #localeconomy #wisconsin #businessstories#eauclaire #midwestbusiness #nowlistening #economicdevelopment #movingtips #movingday

UWEC has a new chancellor, Emily Berge stretches the truth a bit and the Town of Washington dealt a setback

What does it really take to build something from nothing-andthen let it go?  For 16 years, Josh and his wife Heidi owned their own garbage business before selling it five yearsago.  We hear the story of how they turned a significant failure in a sandwich business (a million dollars in the hole!), to a second chance with a trash business to eventually selling it and obtaining a massive financial windfall.  What did the process of selling look like?  What has life been like since theyexited the daily rigors of business.

Root, Root, Root for the Home Team!The Chippewa River Baseball League dates to 1910 and is one of the oldest active leagues in the country. One of the teams is the Chippewa Falls Lumberjacks, which have This team have existed in its current iteration since 2024 and Assistant Manager Dawson Rice joins us to educate us on the league, team and what to expect as the 2026 season gets going.The league is made up of varying experiences, from those who played a little high school to others who reached the collegiate level. With teams stretching from Bloomer to Whitehall, numerous communities locally are represented. All players live in the region too with the majority having been lifelong residents. #localbaseball #amateurbaseball #adultbaseball #seniorbaseball #chippewafalls #gochippewa #wisconsinliving #podcastrecommendations

One way schools are connecting students with the real world,is through work-based learning programs.  Students today are gaining hands-on experience that goes beyond textbooks.  In the process, they are gaining insight into possible careers and accumulating skills that only real-experience can bring.McKenna Hibbard is a senior at Altoona, but hasn’t attendeda class at the high school in several months. Instead, she works at both the Veterans Home in Chippewa Falls and at the Altoona Elementary School. In addition, she is already taking classes at CVTC. She details how this works and benefits, namely in learning how inter-office communication dynamics work.Jess Richards is the district’s work-based learningcoordinator, and she shares how the program is organized and the way student’sprogress is monitored. What are the expectations? #educationpodcast  #thinkforyourself#truthineducation #crticialthinking #educationmyths #podcastrecommendations#eauclaire #altoona #wisconsin