Business Over Beer Untapped

This episode of Business Over Beer is different—and it needed to be.No beer. Just coffee, conversation, and a mission that hits straight in the chest.Host Ben Surratt sits down with Dustin Rucker, founder of Warm Kids Wisconsin, a nonprofit working directly with elementary schools to make sure kids across the state have what they need to survive Wisconsin winters: boots and snow pants.It all started with one giving tree request:“I just want snow pants so I can play with my friends.”That moment changed everything.In this episode, Dustin shares:Why coats aren’t the biggest need—boots and snow pants areHow one small idea turned into helping hundreds of kids across WisconsinWhy teachers and counselors are often quietly filling the gapWhat people misunderstand about nonprofits and donationsHis own childhood experience growing up without winter gearHow community, connection, and saying “yes” keeps this mission moving forwardWarm Kids Wisconsin now works with schools from Chippewa Falls to Sheboygan, helping 30–40 kids per school, with 100% of donations going directly to kids—no salaries, no overhead, no nonsense.This episode is a reminder that:Small donations matterCommunity still shows upAnd sometimes the biggest impact starts with the simplest question: “What do you need?”🎧 Listen. Share it. Then do something with it.❤️ How You Can HelpFollow and connect with Warm Kids Wisconsin on social media📲 @warmkidswisconsinDonations accepted via PayPal & Venmo(Search Warm Kids Wisconsin)Current needs:Boots & snow pants (neutral colors preferred)Storage totes & vacuum storage bagsVolunteers with time, skills, or ideas to help🎧 Business Over Beer🌐 www.bizoverbeer.com🔗 https://linktr.ee/Bizoverbeerpodcast📩 [email protected]🎬 Produced by WAWI Productions📩 [email protected]📸 Instagram: @wawiproductions

In this episode of Business Over Beer, Ben sits down with Tami, co-owner of Waldo Hemp Works, for a conversation that breaks down the stigma, confusion, and curiosity surrounding the hemp industry.This is a first for the podcast—diving into a business many people have questions about but don’t always understand. Tami shares how Waldo Hemp Works got started, what hemp-derived products actually are, and why education and transparency matter so much in this space. We talk laws, misconceptions, customer hesitation, and what it’s really like owning a hemp business in today’s climate.No sales pitch. No hype. Just an honest, educational conversation about entrepreneurship, community, and an industry that’s still widely misunderstood.Whether you’re hemp-curious, a small business owner, or just here for a good conversation—you’ll learn something from this one.Connect with Waldo Hemp Works:📸 Instagram: @waldohempworks🌐 waldohempworks.comConnect with Business Over Beer:🎧 Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts📸 Instagram / TikTok / X: @bizoverbeer🌐 www.bizoverbeer.comProduced by WAWI Productions:📸 Instagram: @wawiproductions📧 Email: [email protected]

We’re kicking off 2026 the right way—Dry January style.In the first episode of the year, Ben sits down with Patrick Aleshire, founder of Milwaukee’s first non-alcoholic beverage passport and the man behind Zero Proof Ventures.Patrick shares his personal journey of quitting alcohol after 20 years, what surprised him most about going alcohol-free, and how that decision sparked a fast-growing NA passport program now featuring 22 local establishments. From Guinness Zero and Blue Moon NA to mocktails, spirits, and sober-curious culture, this episode dives into the booming NA movement, shifting drinking trends, and why sobriety doesn’t mean boring.They also get real about sleep, anxiety, social pressure, Dry January expectations, and why Gen Z is leading the charge toward zero-proof options. If you’re sober curious, cutting back, or just curious what’s next in beverage culture—this one’s for you.👉 Want to learn more, collaborate, or bring Zero Proof to your city?Connect with Zero Proof Ventures🌐 zeroproofpass.com📸 Instagram: @zeroproofpass | @414_Milwaukee📘 Facebook: @zeroproofventures🎙️ Interested in being on the show or partnering with Business Over Beer?Connect with Ben Surratt📧 [email protected]📸 Instagram: @bizoverbeerpodcast | @ben_surratt🌐 www.bizoverbeer.com

In this episode of Business Over Beer, I sit down with Gina Lamay (Coach G) — the owner of G Dogz out in Denver, Colorado (Central Park neighborhood) — for a conversation that’s equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and straight-up inspiring.We talk about her 10-year hustle building G Dogz, how her background in mental health shaped the way she coaches dogs (and supports the humans attached to them), and why “it’s okay to not be okay” isn’t just a phrase — it’s a way of life. Coach G also shares the wild story of breaking her neck early in her business journey… and how community, mindset, and asking for help helped her push through.Oh — and yes… she shows up with Spotted Cow. Because Wisconsin finds you no matter where you run. 🧀🍺Follow Coach G Instagram: @g_dogzWebsite: gdogz.comX: @bizoverbeerInstagram: @bizoverbeerpodcastTikTok: @bizoverbeerFollow Ben: @ben_surratt on InstagramFollow Passages to Success: @passagestosuccess.https://linktr.ee/Bizoverbeerpodcastwww.bizoverbeer.com#BusinessOverBeer #SmallBusinessStories #PodcastEpisode #WisconsinVibes #DogTraining

Tara Tinsley is back for her third appearance on the Business Over Beer Podcast, and this one feels like catching up with an old friend right before Thanksgiving. We dive into everything she’s been up to — from her evolution as a singer and public speaker, to how her faith continues to guide her journey, to her unexpected new adventures in farming down in Texas. 🌾🎶We talk food, we talk life, we talk growth… and of course, we laugh our way through the entire episode. This is one of those conversations that reminds you why staying connected with good people matters.Follow along, share it with a friend, and have a happy Thanksgiving, folks. 🍂🍻Follow & Connect: with TarataratinsleybrackfamilyfarmsteadFollow & Connect: with The BOBX: @bizoverbeerInstagram: @bizoverbeerpodcastTikTok: @bizoverbeerBen: @ben_surrattPassages to Success: @passagestosuccessLinktree: https://linktr.ee/Bizoverbeerpodcast

In this quick but punchy episode, Ben sits down with John Roots, owner of Natty Oaks in West Allis a man who has survived the wild ride of restaurant ownership, community building, and more dad jokes than any human should legally be allowed to use.John breaks down what makes West Allis so special, why community matters, and what D-B-A-B means, and what every restaurateur/bar owner learns sooner or later. 👀Oh, and did I mention the bad dad jokes? Yeah… there are plenty. So brace yourself.🍻 Follow Natty Oaks: @the_real_nattyoaks🍻 Follow John: @rootsrootsbaby🍻 Follow Biz Over Beer:X: @bizoverbeerInstagram: @bizoverbeerpodcastTikTok: @bizoverbeerFollow Ben: @ben_surrattFollow Passages to Success: @passagestosuccess🌐 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Bizoverbeerpodcast

What happens when you mix Midwest humor, viral videos, and a heart that’s all Wisconsin? You get @meg_voss — better known as Midwest Meg. 💛In this episode of the Business Over Beer – Midwest Edition, Ben sits down with Meg to talk about how one simple video about “blinkers” (yep, a true Wisconsin term!) sparked thousands of followers and opened the door to a community built on laughter, authenticity, and real talk. From going viral to getting vulnerable, Meg shares her journey of embracing the ups and downs of social media, staying true to herself, and using her platform to talk openly about mental health and life in the Midwest. 🍻Grab your favorite brew and settle in for a conversation that’s equal parts funny, honest, and pure Wisconsin energy.🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube!🌐 www.bizoverbeer.com🍺 @ben_surratt💬 Guest: @meg_voss

🎙️ Business Over Beer – Halloween Special: The Paranormal Side of Storytelling (feat. Jim Harold)This Halloween, the Business Over Beer Podcast goes beyond the veil. 👻Ben sits down with Jim Harold, host of Jim Harold’s Campfire and The Paranormal Podcast, to explore the mystery, meaning, and magic behind storytelling. From spine-tingling tales of the unexplained to the real-world lessons of building a loyal audience, Jim shares how curiosity, faith, and consistency built one of the most trusted brands in podcasting.They dive into:💀 Why people are drawn to ghost stories and what they reveal about us🎙️ The business of podcasting and storytelling in a changing world🍺 How community, belief, and connection transcend the paranormalGrab a beer (and maybe a nightlight) — this episode will have you thinking, laughing, and maybe even looking over your shoulder.🎧 Listen now on all major podcast platforms!🌐 www.bizoverbeer.com🔗 linktr.ee/BizoverbeerpodcastFollow & Connect:🩵 X: @bizoverbeer📸 Instagram: @bizoverbeerpodcast🎵 TikTok: @bizoverbeer👤 Follow Ben: @ben_surratt🌱 Follow Passages to Success: @passagestosuccessWebsite (main): jimharold.com (jimharold.com)Podcasts landing (free shows): jimharold.com/jims-podcasts/ (jimharold.com)Instagram: @thejimharold (instagram.com)YouTube channel: youtube.com/jimharold (youtube.com)Plus Membership page (premium/back catalog): jimharoldplus.com (jimharoldplus.com)His flagship podcast “The Paranormal Podcast”: jimharold.com/show/the-paranormal-podcast/ (jimharold.com)#BusinessOverBeer #MidwestEdition #JimHarold #HalloweenSpecial #ParanormalPodcast #GhostStories #PodcastCommunity #StorytellingMatters #SmallBusinessStories #MidwestPodcasters #BizOverBeerPodcast #BOBPodcast #PassagesToSuccess #CraftBeerCulture #EntrepreneurStories...

What happens when a passion for horror, community, and entrepreneurship collide? In this Business Over Beer Midwest Series episode, Ben sits down with Tanner from the Sheboygan Haunted Asylum — one of Wisconsin’s most talked-about haunted attractions. From the early days of transforming an abandoned asylum into a full-scale business, to the challenges of running a seasonal operation that relies on creativity, trust, and local support, Tanner shares how he’s turned fear into opportunity. This isn’t just about ghosts and jump scares — it’s about vision, grit, and building something that truly brings a community together. 💀🏚️🍺So grab a cold one and get ready for a conversation where business gets scary. Tanner and Ben dive deep into what it takes to lead a team, engage an audience, and keep the doors open when your business depends on chills, thrills, and connection. Whether you’re a small-business owner, a lover of haunted history, or just here for the spooky stories, this episode will leave you inspired (and maybe a little on edge). 👻🎧🔗 Listen & Watch: www.bizoverbeer.comX: @bizoverbeerInstagram: @bizoverbeerpodcastFollow Ben: @ben_surrattFollow Passages to Success: @passagestosuccess#BusinessOverBeer #BOBMidwestSeries #HauntedAsylum #SheboyganHauntedAsylum #HauntedWisconsin #SpookyBusiness #SmallBusinessStories #HauntedEntrepreneur #WisconsinBeerCulture #SupportLocalBusiness #WisconsinMade #CommunityOverCompetition #GhostStoriesAndBeer #EerieEntrepreneurs #BusinessGetsScary #OctoberVibes

In this episode of Business Over Beer, Ben sits down with April Salsbury, founder and CEO of Salsbury & Company, a small business consulting firm based in Vancouver, WA that helps businesses with HR, bookkeeping, payroll, and medical billing — especially in the integrative healthcare space.Over a non-alcoholic beer and a cup of chamomile tea ☕🍺, Ben and April dive into what it takes to grow and sustain a small business in today’s ever-changing economy.From leaving her corporate CEO role to starting her own consulting business, April shares how she took a calculated leap of faith, hired her first employee, and built a team that serves small businesses with practical tools, real data, and a no-nonsense approach.They discuss:Common financial mistakes small business owners make 💸The difference between consulting and coachingWhy AI is transforming small business operations 🤖The importance of aligning company culture with client expectationsHow approachable leadership can shape a thriving workplaceAnd why planning for your exit strategy from day one mattersApril’s insight is straight talk for business owners ready to face their fears, value their time, and plan their success with intention.🎧 Tune in for real talk, honest lessons, and a fresh look at what it means to build and lead a small business with confidence and care.👉 Follow April at salsburyandco.com👉 Follow Business Over Beer:X: @bizoverbeer | Instagram: @bizoverbeerpodcast | TikTok: @bizoverbeerFollow Ben: @ben_surratt on InstagramFollow Passages to Success: @passagestosuccess🌐 www.bizoverbeer.com

In this episode of Business Over Beer, host Ben Surratt sits down in the newly upgraded Oostburg Studios with longtime friends Dana and Mike Haucke, owners of Haucke Plumbing & Heating and proud members of the Plymouth community.This conversation goes beyond pipes and furnaces — it’s about life as a married couple running a family-owned business, the lessons they’ve learned from years of ownership, and how they manage to stay positive in a world full of negativity. From balancing marriage and business to giving back to their community, Dana and Mike share their heart, their humor, and their outlook on what it means to truly build a life together.🍻 Tune in for laughs, positivity, and a real reminder that business, marriage, and community are all about building connections that last.📲 Connect with Haucke Plumbing & Heating:Website: hauckeplumbing.com

On this episode of Business Over Beer Untapped, I catch up with longtime friend and fellow Passages to Success member, Todd Brefeld, a mortgage industry veteran with over 25 years of experience.Todd’s journey has taken him from Chicago to Hawaii, Japan, and finally the Pacific Northwest, but one thing has stayed consistent: his commitment to building authentic relationships. In this episode, Todd shares how personal connections—not algorithms—continue to drive his business forward, even in a challenging mortgage market.We dive into:Todd’s unique career path and his time living abroadThe entrepreneurial mindset required in the mortgage worldHis strategy of making 20 calls a day to build and maintain relationshipsMortgage market insights: why now could still be a great time to buyHow buyers can leverage seller concessions and rate buy-downsWhy balancing social media with in-person networking matters more than everWhether you’re in real estate, lending, or just running your own business, Todd’s insights on consistency, authenticity, and strategic thinking will resonate.🎧 Grab your favorite beer and join us for this conversation all about connection, business, and finding success the relationship-first way.💻 Connect with Todd Brefeld:Website: www.financingbytodd.comInstagram: @toddbrefeld.lenderFacebook: Todd Brefeld-Mortgage Lender🔗 Stay Connected with Business Over Beer:X: @bizoverbeerInstagram: @bizoverbeerpodcastTikTok: @bizoverbeerWebsite: www.bizoverbeer.comLinktree: https://linktr.ee/BizoverbeerpodcastFollow Ben: @ben_surratt on InstagramFollow Passages to Success: @passagestosuccess

I'm back at Copper State Brewing in Green Bay, WI for a reunion episode with Owners, Jon and Missy Martens, who first joined the BOB Pod back in 2020. A lot has changed—and they’ve grown through it all.From hiring struggles and family-run kitchen shifts to evolving as leaders and finding their place in the community, this conversation is rich with honesty, laughs, and serious entrepreneurial insight.💡 Whether you’re a beer lover, a small biz owner, or someone who’s ever wondered what it takes to keep a dream alive during tough times—this one’s for you.🎧 Prost and press play!👇 Connect with us:🔗 www.bizoverbeer.com📲 Linktree: linktr.ee/Bizoverbeerpodcast📩 Contact: [email protected] us!X: @bizoverbeerIG: @bizoverbeerpodcastTikTok: @bizoverbeerBen: @ben_surrattPassages to Success: @passagestosuccess#BusinessOverBeer #CraftBeerPodcast #WisconsinBeer #CopperStateBrewing #GreenBayWI #Entrepreneurship #MidwestCraftBeer #SmallBusinessLife #BeerAndBusiness #SupportLocalBreweries #BreweryStory #PodcastDrop #LeadershipJourney #FamilyBusiness #Prost🍻

On this episode of Business Over Beer, I sit down with Yvonne Murray — the voice (and lens) behind the popular Milwaukee Beer Blog 🍻. What started as a fun way to share her beer pics turned into something much bigger: an influential voice in Milwaukee’s craft beer scene.Yvonne opens up about how she built her following organically while juggling grad school, a career in nursing, and life with her husband and their very social dog, Woody 🐶. We talk about:The moment she realized beer blogging could be something moreHer favorite styles (spoiler: blond ales and West Coast IPAs)Why brewery atmosphere matters just as much as the beerThe surprising impact of a thoughtful Instagram postAnd what she hopes is next for the beer community in Milwaukee and beyondPlus, we dive into the importance of supporting small breweries, why social media content isn’t as effortless as it looks, and how the Midwest's blue-collar roots are baked into its beer culture.This episode is for the beer lovers, content creators, and anyone who believes that building community can start with something as simple as sharing a pint.🎙️ Listen now: www.bizoverbeer.com🔗 Linktree: linktr.ee/BizOverBeerPodcast📲 Follow us:IG: @bizoverbeerpodcastTikTok: @bizoverbeerX: @bizoverbeerFollow Ben: @ben_surrattFollow Yvonne: @milwaukeebeer.blog📬 Questions or collab inquiries?Email Ben at [email protected]#BusinessOverBeer #MilwaukeeBeerBlog #CraftBeerCulture #BeerInfluencer #SupportLocalBreweries #WisconsinBeer #BeerBloggers #WomenInBeer #DrinkLocal #MKEBeerScene #PodcastEpisode #MidwestVibes #CommunityOverCompetition #BeerDogApproved #BreweryVibes

After a few months of trying to line up schedules, I finally got to sit down with Jared, the creator of Wisco Dive Bars — and it was absolutely worth the wait.In this episode of Business Over Beer: Midwest Edition, we dive into Jared’s journey building Wisco Dive Bars, a passion project that shines a spotlight on the character, culture, and charm of Wisconsin’s legendary dive bar scene. From the spark of inspiration to navigating sponsorships, community impact, and the challenge of balancing a full-time job with a growing brand — Jared keeps it real, honest, and deeply authentic.We talk about:The origin and mission behind Wisco Dive BarsWhat makes a dive bar a true diveHis connection to small business and local communityHow Wisconsin culture fuels everything he createsThe hustle of building a brand on the sideAnd where he hopes to take it nextThis conversation is full of laughs, reflection, and genuine admiration for the bars and people that make Wisconsin what it is.🔗 Website & LinksListen now: www.bizoverbeer.comAll platforms & socials: linktr.ee/bizoverbeerpodcast📣 Follow Business Over BeerInstagram: @bizoverbeerpodcastFacebook: Business Over BeerTikTok: @bizoverbeerEmail: [email protected]📣 Follow Wisco Dive BarsInstagram: @wiscodivebarsMore: linktr.ee/wiscodivebars#WiscoDiveBars #BusinessOverBeer #WisconsinPodcast #CraftBeerCulture #MidwestPubs #SupportLocalBars #DiveBarWisconsin #BarstoolStories #EntrepreneurLife #BeerWithAStory #BizOverBeer #PouringInTheHeartland 🍻

In this special hometown(ish) episode, Ben sits down with the passionate team behind Yard 65, Kiel’s new brewery and events space that’s already turning heads in the Wisconsin craft beer scene.Although Ben didn’t grow up in Kiel, it’s the town where he graduated high school — and one that still holds a special place in his heart. So coming back to sit down with Corey, Jason, and Jenny, the trio behind Yard 65, was more than just another interview… it was a full-circle moment.We talk about:🍺 The inspiration behind Yard 65🏛️ Reviving the historic AA Laun building🔥 The challenges of launching a brewery from scratch🎉 Creating a space that’s more than just beer — it’s community💡 Dreams, laughs, and some seriously tasty poursThis is a story about vision, hustle, and hometown pride — the kind that defines what Business Over Beer is all about.🎧 Available Now on:Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts | www.bizoverbeer.com🔗 All Links: linktr.ee/Bizoverbeerpodcast🙌 Follow Yard 65:📸 Instagram: @yard65kiel🌐 Website: www.yard65.com🥂 Follow Business Over Beer:📲 Instagram: @bizoverbeerpodcast🧢 TikTok: @bizoverbeer🐦 X: @bizoverbeer📸 Follow Ben: @ben_surratt💡 Follow Passages to Success: @passagestosuccessSpecial Thanks to:Video Producer Johnny Concepcion aka @johnny_flics Drone and Audio Producer Tiernan Deppiesse aka @tdw_920#BusinessOverBeer #MidwestEdition #Yard65 #CraftBeerPodcast #KielWI #PouringInTheHeartland #BreweryDreams #SupportLocalBeer #WisconsinBreweries #BrewedInWisconsin

Guest: Jess DuBose, ADHD Coach & AuthorTitle: Working With Your Brain – Not Against ItEpisode Summary:In this powerful and honest episode of Business Over Beer: Untapped, Ben and Kimberly sit down with ADHD coach and author Jess DuBose, who shares her deeply personal and professional insight into how ADHD affects relationships, work, and life.After a few classic podcast hiccups (shoutout to all the camera malfunctions), the trio jumps into a candid conversation about ThriveCon event planning—including beer sponsorships and social hour vibes—before diving into the real magic: how Jess helps people understand and embrace their ADHD brains.Jess opens up about her experience coaching ADHD clients, being married to someone with ADHD, and what inspired her book I Don’t Hate My Ex-Husband. She shares actionable insight on communication challenges, attention regulation, rejection sensitivity, and time management—plus why celebrating small wins might just be the game changer many people need.Whether you're neurodivergent, married to someone who is, or working with ADHD in your business life, this episode is packed with perspective, laughter, and lightbulb moments.🔥 What We Cover:🚧 Technical issues and podcast chaos (because, real life)🍻 Behind-the-scenes of ThriveCon planning + beer talk🧠 Why ADHD is about regulation, not deficit🗣️ Communication strategies for couples and clients⏱️ The reality of time blindness and task switching❤️ The emotional side of ADHD (hello, rejection sensitivity!)✨ The importance of celebrating wins—no matter how small📘 Jess’s book I Don’t Hate My Ex-Husband

event planning, staging, entrepreneurship, community support, self-care, creativity, budgeting, trends, local business, personal growthsummaryIn this episode of Business Over Beer, host Ben Surratt interviews Bethani Green, owner of Hadley Mac, a multifaceted business specializing in event planning and home staging. Bethani shares her journey from being a flight attendant to becoming an entrepreneur, highlighting the challenges and rewards of running her own business. She emphasizes the importance of community support, creativity in her work, and the need for self-care as a business owner. The conversation also touches on handling client expectations, navigating trends in the industry, and her aspirations for future projects, including a dream event celebrating a significant personal belief.takeawaysBethani transitioned from a flight attendant to an entrepreneur to spend more time with her family.She emphasizes the importance of community support and helping local businesses.Self-care and setting boundaries are crucial for managing stress as a business owner.Creativity plays a significant role in her event planning and staging work.Bethani believes that every 'no' leads to a bigger 'yes' in business.She uses her background in event planning to create memorable experiences for clients.Budgeting and understanding client priorities are key to successful event planning.Trends in event planning can be cyclical, and she aims to lead rather than follow them.Bethani's dream event would be a grand celebration for Christ's return.She actively involves her daughters in her business to instill entrepreneurial values.Sound Bites"I want to be a source of joy to them.""I want to support local entrepreneurs.""Every no leads to a bigger yes."Chapters00:00Introduction to Hadley Mac and Bethany's Journey05:04The Evolution of Event Planning and Staging10:02Navigating Challenges in Event Coordination14:53The Importance of Empathy in Business20:02Building a Community Over Competition24:59Personal Growth and Future Aspirations30:04The Art of Staging: A Unique Approach31:42Balancing Creativity and Practicality33:32Working with Budgets: Thrifting and Prioritizing35:54Vendor Relationships and Event Planning37:55Trends in Staging and Event Planning40:51Creating Memorable Experiences43:22The Importance of Hard Work in Real Estate46:14Dream Events and Personal Inspirations49:40Involving Family in Business54:09Promoting Services and Community Engagement📅 Available now! Listen at the link below and don’t forget to follow @hadleymak for more of Bethani’s work!🔗 Listen & Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/Bizoverbeerpodcast🌐 Business Over Beer: https://bizoverbeer.com/📸 Follow B.O.B.: @bizoverbeerpodcast🔗 Follow Bethani & Hadley Mak:📸 Instagram: @hadleymak#BusinessOverBeer 🍺 #HadleyMak 🎉 #EntrepreneurLife 💼 #EventPlanning 🎪 #HomeStaging 🏡 #CraftBeerCulture 🍻 #SmallBusinessSupport #PodcastLife 🎙️ #ThriveCon2025