Everyday with K

In this episode of 'Every Day with K', host Katherine is joined by guests Rey and Chris to explore the concept of situational beers—beers that hold personal significance tied to memories and experiences. The conversation flows from what each guest is drinking to the stories behind their favorite beers, emphasizing the joy of sharing these moments with friends. They discuss the cultural importance of brunch beverages and the unique experiences that come with enjoying beer in various settings, all while maintaining a light-hearted and engaging atmosphere. In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore various situational beverages, from clam juice to nostalgic drinks that evoke family memories. They discuss the importance of having a drink after a tough day, share personal stories about the last beer shared with someone special, and reflect on their journeys of learning to drink responsibly. The conversation wraps up with a call to the audience to share their own situational moments and engage with the show.TakeawaysThe podcast features a fun and engaging conversation about beer.Situational beers are tied to personal memories and experiences.Brunch culture is a significant aspect of social gatherings.The importance of sharing stories related to specific beers.Each guest shares their favorite situational beer and its significance.The conversation flows naturally between topics, creating a cohesive experience.The hosts emphasize the joy of drinking and sharing experiences with friends.Personal anecdotes enhance the discussion about beer and its role in life.The draft format adds an element of competition and fun to the conversation.The hosts express their love for craft beer and its cultural significance. Clam juice can be surprisingly enjoyable in certain contexts.Post-shit day beverages serve as a necessary relief.Nostalgic drinks often carry deep family memories.The last beer shared with someone can hold significant emotional weight.Learning to drink responsibly is a personal journey for many.Situational drinks can evoke strong memories and feelings.Engaging with the audience enhances the conversation experience.Sharing personal stories creates a deeper connection among hosts.The importance of being mindful about alcohol consumption is emphasized.Creating a community around shared experiences can enrich discussions.Keywordspodcast, beer, situational beers, drinking culture, personal stories, brunch, community, memories, craft beer, conversations, clam juice, liquor, post-shit day beverages, nostalgic drinks, family memories, last beer, learning to drink, situational moments, audience engagement

SummaryIn this episode, Katherine welcomes Kyle Free to kick off Season Two of 'Every Day with K.' They discuss their shared passion for wine and spirits, the importance of community engagement, and the current trends in the alcohol industry. Kyle shares insights from his experience in the wine and spirits business, including the rise of non-alcoholic options and the challenges faced by craft breweries. The conversation also touches on Kyle's new venture into pizza making and the art of fermentation, highlighting the joy of creating and sharing food. In this engaging conversation, Kyle and Kat explore the intricacies of fermentation in baking, the creative process behind innovative pizza recipes, and the challenges of overcoming baking intimidation. They share personal anecdotes about community support, favorite foods, and the importance of helping neighbors in need. The discussion also touches on pop culture phrases, motivation during tough times, and the role of astrology in their lives. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the joy of cooking and the significance of local businesses, culminating in a heartfelt invitation to support Gee's Pizza.TakeawaysThe importance of community in the hospitality industry.Wine and spirits should be approachable and not intimidating.Craft breweries are facing challenges but can pivot to survive.Non-alcoholic options are gaining traction in the market.Building a balanced wine list is crucial for success.Community engagement can lead to significant positive impact.The alcohol industry is evolving with new trends and consumer preferences.Understanding the fermentation process enhances food and drink experiences.Pizza making is a fulfilling creative outlet.Supporting local businesses is essential for community growth. Baking can be simplified with patience and practice.Fermentation plays a crucial role in both baking and brewing.Creative pizza recipes can elevate traditional dishes.Community support is essential during tough times.Food insecurity is a pressing issue that needs attention.Everyone should try making bread at least once.Personal connections with neighbors can lead to meaningful support.Astrology can provide insights into personal energy and connections.Finding motivation can come from helping others in need.Local businesses thrive on community support and engagement.Keywordswine, spirits, community, fermentation, craft beer, industry trends, pizza making, alcohol alternatives, local business, food drive, fermentation, baking, pizza, community, motivation, astrology, local business, food, cooking, creativity

In this engaging conversation, host Kat Valleau speaks with singer-songwriter Ian Leith, known as the 'human jukebox.' They explore Ian's journey in music, his creative ventures in film, and the challenges faced by independent artists in the current music landscape. The discussion delves into the importance of supporting local venues, the impact of streaming services, and the role of community in building a following. They also touch on the implications of AI in music and the significance of tipping musicians as a form of appreciation. In this engaging conversation, Ian and Kat delve into various themes surrounding music, personal experiences, and the importance of supporting artists. They discuss the power of live performances, the influence of iconic bands like The Beatles, and share personal anecdotes about their first jobs and concerts. The conversation also touches on unique hobbies, such as collecting depression glass, and the comfort foods that resonate with their cultural backgrounds. Finally, they emphasize the significance of supporting musicians in today's digital age, encouraging listeners to engage with and promote their work.Keywordsmusic, independent artists, Chicago music scene, live music, streaming services, support local venues, tipping musicians, community, creativity, music industry, music, performance, Beatles, collections, comfort food, support musicians, concert memories, influence, hobbies, ChicagoTakeawaysIan Leith is on a mission to record every song he knows.Music is an essential part of life for everyone.Supporting local artists can be as simple as attending their shows.The music industry is facing challenges from corporate venues and streaming services.Chicago's music scene is unique due to its rich history and accessibility.Tipping musicians is a way to show appreciation for their craft.Independent venues need to diversify to stay afloat.Community support is crucial for local artists to thrive.AI is starting to influence the music industry in unexpected ways.Every musician has a unique journey and style that deserves recognition. The impact of live performance on both artists and audiences.Exploring the evolution of musical influences over time.The significance of personal collections and hobbies in shaping identity.Memorable concert experiences can leave a lasting impression.Comfort food often ties back to cultural heritage and family traditions.Supporting musicians goes beyond monetary contributions.The importance of sharing and promoting artists' work in the digital age.Understanding the historical context of influential music.The role of personal anecdotes in connecting with audiences.The value of community and shared experiences in music.

In this episode of the Everyday with K podcast, host Katherine Valleau welcomes Tim Flicken, the brewery manager of Midwest Coast Brewing. They discuss the intricacies of brewing, the importance of water quality, and the evolving trends in craft beer. Tim shares insights into his role as a brewery manager, the challenges of balancing beer styles on tap, and the fun of Margarita Mondays. The conversation highlights the art of multitasking in brewing and the relationship between sales and inventory management. In this conversation, Tim Flicken and Kat Valleau delve into the intricacies of running a brewery, discussing the logistical challenges of brewing, the importance of creating a family-friendly atmosphere, and the balance of having children in a brewery setting. They also touch on social etiquette in public spaces and the deep-rooted loyalty to college football teams, particularly Alabama and Tennessee. The discussion highlights the community aspect of breweries and the personal connections that shape their culture. In this lively conversation, Kat Valleau and Tim Flicken explore a variety of topics ranging from sports rivalries and college memories to music preferences and culinary creations. They share humorous anecdotes, discuss conspiracy theories, and engage in light-hearted banter about fake swears. The conversation culminates in a discussion about supporting local breweries, highlighting the importance of community and friendship.craft beer, brewing process, brewery manager, beer styles, water quality, beer trends, multitasking, beer inventory, margaritas, food adventures, brewing logistics, family-friendly brewery, kids in breweries, social etiquette, Alabama football, brewery culture, lager brewing, community engagement, brewery atmosphere, fan loyalty, sports, college memories, music, conspiracy theories, fake swears, culinary, local breweries, humor, anecdotes, friendship

In this episode of the Everyday with K podcast, host Katherine welcomes Mandy Steinhauer for a candid conversation about their long-standing friendship, experiences in retail and hospitality, and the importance of tough love. They discuss their beer preferences, the value of working in customer service, and how technology has changed communication. The episode is filled with humorous anecdotes from their retail days, including unexpected encounters and the lessons learned from working in the industry. In this engaging conversation, Kat Valleau and Mandy explore the impact of the internet on critical thinking, generational differences, and the challenges of modern parenting. They discuss the unique experiences of Gen X, the consequences of over-correction in parenting, and the evolving communication styles influenced by pop culture. The dialogue also includes light-hearted segments with fun questions about transportation dreams and celebrity punch lists, culminating in valuable advice for younger generations.

In this episode of "Every Day with K," host Katherine welcomes her dear friend Brian Michalski, known as Endless Passport, to discuss his globetrotting adventures and solo backpacking experiences. They delve into Brian's journey from a classroom teacher to a world traveler, his encounters with different cultures, and the challenges and joys of traveling solo. The conversation also touches on the importance of community, personal growth through travel, and some of Brian's most memorable experiences, including his trek to Everest Base Camp and a harrowing incident in Colombia.Takeaways:Be present in the moment and enjoy where you are.Travel teaches you to embrace uncertainties and uncomfortable moments.Community is vital for support during both good and challenging times.Traveling solo can lead to significant personal growth and introspection.Different countries offer unique cultural experiences and challenges.Brian's journey from teaching to traveling was fueled by a desire for change.The trek to Everest Base Camp was a physically and mentally challenging experience.Brian's encounter in Colombia highlighted the importance of safety and adaptability.Travel points and credit card strategies can significantly enhance travel experiences.Brian emphasizes the importance of respecting local customs and cultures.Keywords: travel, solo backpacking, globetrotting, community, personal growth, Everest Base Camp, Colombia, cultural experiences, travel tips, Brian Michalski

In our first volume of Short & Special episodes, Katherine talks through the history, beers and traditions of Oktoberfest, and why lederhosen should be a year round look...

Keywordsbeer, craft beer, Chicago beer scene, beer tasting, community engagement, breweries, beer industry changes, THC beverages, lifestyle influencers, beer ambassadors, beer, podcasting, collaborations, community, personal preferences, future projects, influencer experiences, desert island beers, challenges, evolutionTakeawaysRomeo and Brewliet are lifestyle influencers and beer ambassadors.They started their journey by documenting their brewery visits on Instagram.The beer community has embraced them, leading to a growing following.Their content focuses on local breweries and community engagement.They emphasize the importance of evolving in their approach to content creation.The Chicago beer scene has shifted towards breweries offering food and events.They enjoy exploring new interests, including comic books and classic TV shows.The beer industry has faced challenges but continues to adapt and grow.They believe in supporting local businesses and fostering community connections.The rise of THC beverages is a notable trend in the beverage industry. Beer is a personal vice for some, and preferences vary.The beer community is evolving, which can dilute its essence.Collaborating with other businesses to create unique beers is exciting.Editing podcasts can be a challenging learning process.Choosing a desert island beer can spark fun debates.Future projects may involve wine and expanding brand knowledge.Memorable influencer experiences can enhance community engagement.Supporting friends in the industry is crucial for growth.The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity in podcasting.Humor and spontaneity play a key role in engaging discussions.SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Kat hosts Romeo and Brewliet, also known as Jeff and Taylor, who share their journey as beer ambassadors and lifestyle influencers in the Chicago beer scene. They discuss their beer preferences, how they met, and their evolving interests, including comic books and classic TV shows. The duo reflects on the changes in the beer industry, particularly the shift towards breweries becoming community hubs with food and events. They also touch on the rise of THC beverages and their future plans for community engagement and content creation. In this engaging conversation, Romeo and Brewliet discuss their personal preferences regarding beer and vices, the evolution of the beer community, and their dream collaborations. They delve into the challenges of podcasting, share their thoughts on what beers they would take to a desert island, and reveal their future aspirations. The conversation wraps up with memorable influencer experiences and the importance of supporting friends in the industry.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction03:06 Beer Tasting and Preferences05:59 Memorable Encounters and Water Balloon Fights11:57 New Interests and Hobbies17:54 Journey in the Chicago Beer Scene22:36 The Evolution of Passion Projects27:35 Building Community Through Local Engagement31:20 The Changing Landscape of the Beer Industry39:14 Navigating New Trends in Beverages41:31 Dream Collaborations and Future Aspirations48:49 The Challenges of Podcasting52:36 Desert Island Beers: A Fun Debate57:24 Future Projects and Aspirations01:03:53 Connecting with the Audience

In this episode of Everyday with K, host Katherine welcomes her long-time friend Mike Ester to celebrate their 35-year friendship. They reminisce about how they met at band camp, discuss the importance of maintaining long-distance friendships, and explore their shared interests in hobbies and beverages. The conversation flows through personal anecdotes, the significance of communication, and the joys of curiosity. They also engage in fun questions that reveal their personalities and insights into life, friendship, and preparedness.

In this episode of 'Every Day with K', host Kat Valleau welcomes Brooke Webster, a wine expert and ambassador, to discuss the world of wine, particularly focusing on Vino Verde and Portuguese wines. They explore the importance of community, the journey of becoming a sommelier, and the significance of terroir in winemaking. The conversation highlights the rise of female winemakers and the impact of organic practices in the industry. Brooke shares her personal experiences and insights, making the discussion both informative and engaging for wine enthusiasts. In this engaging conversation, Kat Valleau and Brooke Webster delve into the world of Portuguese wines, discussing the unique terroir and the new wave of winemakers in Portugal. They explore the differences between old world and new world wines, share amusing anecdotes from their experiences, and reflect on the dining scene in Chicago. The discussion also touches on the importance of community and the joy of sharing knowledge about wine and food pairings.

In this engaging conversation, Kat and Rey explore the importance of community connections, local businesses, and the impact of social activities like bocce on mental health. They discuss their shared experiences in the Oak Park area, the role of breweries and shops in fostering relationships, and how the pandemic has reshaped community engagement. Rey shares personal anecdotes about his upbringing and the values instilled in him regarding community involvement, while Kat emphasizes the significance of supporting local businesses and the unique culture of their neighborhood. In this engaging conversation, Rey and Kat delve into the importance of community ownership through local food co-ops like Sugar Beet, discussing the value of supporting local businesses and the impact of community-driven initiatives. They celebrate Sugar Beet's 10-year anniversary, highlight various local businesses, and share personal anecdotes about adulthood and community engagement. The conversation also touches on sports, fun debates, and the significance of making time for what matters in life.

In this episode of Everyday with K, hosts Katherine and Kristen dive into their unique friendship, the origins of their wine club, and their experiences with various wines. They discuss health trends, particularly around perimenopause, and share personal anecdotes about their lives. The episode features a tasting of boxed wines, exploring their flavors and pairings, while also engaging with their audience about community support and personal insights. The conversation is light-hearted, filled with laughter, and emphasizes curiosity and connection.

In this engaging episode of Everyday with K, host Katherine welcomes her friend Cam Horn, the head brewer at Homewood Brewing Company. They dive into a lively discussion about craft beer, brewing techniques, and the importance of community involvement. Cam shares his journey from home brewing to professional brewing, emphasizing the significance of balance in beer flavors. The conversation also touches on sustainability practices in brewing, current trends in the beer industry, and the challenges of consumer preferences. With a mix of personal anecdotes and industry insights, this episode is a celebration of friendship, creativity, and the love of beer.

In this first pour of Everyday with K, it’s just me, a glass of wine, and a mic. I’m laying out what this podcast is all about — curious conversations, everyday stories, and the cozy chaos of being human. No guests this time, just some personal stories, a little behind-the-scenes on why I started the show, and what you can expect each week. Grab a drink and settle in — let’s kick this thing off....

A Curious Community Conversations for the Wonderfully Ordinary Welcome to Everyday with K—a podcast for the wildly curious and quietly chaotic. Hosted by K, former brewery owner/operator, lifelong people-watcher, and certified overthinker, this show is part thoughtful storytelling, part unscripted honesty, and part “did we just become best friends?”Each episode explores what makes us tick—from the rituals that ground us to the random rabbit holes we can’t stop exploring. Guests drop by to chat about their passions, their pivots, and everything in between. And sometimes, it’s just K with a mic, a beverage, and some unfiltered thoughts.We’re not saving the world here—but we are making space for the kinds of conversations that remind us we’re not alone in it.Bring your drink of choice. Stay for the weird questions. Come back for the community.