Brews & Business

Hosted by Braedon Kruse

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Mar 2026

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Empowering Your Business Journey with Expert Insights and Inspiring Stories Welcome to the Brews & Business Podcast – your go-to source for invaluable insights, practical advice, and inspiring stories from business owners and professionals across a wide range of industries. Our goal is to empower you with firsthand knowledge from experts in IT, Finance, Sales, Marketing, Operations, Logistics, and much more, so you can grow and optimize your business. Each episode brings together passionate entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals, sharing their experiences, successes, and challenges in the business world. Through engaging conversations, we uncover powerful stories that will fuel your entrepreneurial spirit and provide actionable tips to help you navigate the ever-evolving business landscape. Whether you're a startup founder, a seasoned business owner, or an aspiring entrepreneur, the Brews & Business Podcast is your ultimate resource for learning, growth, and inspiration. Our diverse lineup of guests ensures that every episode offers unique perspectives and valuable nuggets of wisdom that you can apply to your own business journey. So, grab a brew, sit back, and join us as we dive into the fascinating world of business – exploring the latest trends, uncovering hidden gems, and celebrating the incredible stories of those who have dared to dream big and make their mark. Tune in to the Brews & Business Podcast and discover a treasure trove of expert insights and captivating stories that will empower you to take your business to new heights! 🎧👉 Brews & Business Podcast 🎧👉 Marketing for Small Business Podcast 🎧 iHeart, Google, Apple, Spotify, + MORE 💯 Listen to the KruCast Brews & Business Podcast https://www.spreaker.com/show/brews-business Marketing for Small Business Podcast https://www.spreaker.com/show/marketing-for-the-small-business Braedon Kruse Sooner Marketing Solutions "Marketing Solutions That Deliver Sooner Results" braedonkruse.com marketingsooner.com sports-marketing.agency Abel Rodriguez ARC Outdoorsmen "Creating & Maintaining Your Outdoor Living" arcoutdoorsmen.com Chance Jones Are you interested in becoming a guest on our show? Complete the Guest Inquiry Form Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support .

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March 14, 2026Episode 991 hr 10 min

Bold Moves & Big Missions with Dana Harris

In this episode, we sit down with Dana Harris to discuss her multifaceted career journey—from interning with the New York Mets and producing sports in Tulsa to a two-decade career in banking. Now with the American Cancer Society, Dana is spearheading the 20th anniversary of the Tulsa Cattle Barons Ball, the largest ACS fundraiser in Oklahoma. She shares her "workhorse" mentality, her philosophy on living boldly, and how her commitment to her family during the pandemic led her to a meaningful new chapter in the nonprofit sector. Background & Career JourneyEarly Roots: Originally from Tulsa and a resident of Sapulpa, Dana attended Oklahoma State University.Sports Broadcasting: She gained early experience interning for the OSU sports office and the New York Mets in Queens.Media Production: After returning to Tulsa, she worked at a local TV station producing sports coverage for the Tulsa Talons and the Drillers.Banking Career: Dana spent approximately 21 years in the banking industry, including 17.5 years at Western Sun Credit Union starting in 2002, followed by four years at Yorktown Bank.Career Pivot: During the COVID-19 pandemic, she left banking to prioritize being present for her children’s learning and needs. The American Cancer Society & Tulsa Cattle Barons BallThe Mission: Dana has been with the ACS for nearly five years, motivated in part by her family's personal experiences with cancer.Event Growth: As the planner for the Tulsa Cattle Barons Ball, she successfully moved the event to 181 Ranch in Bixby, where it sold 500 tickets.A Historic Venue: To accommodate growth, the event moved to the Ranger Arena at Expo Square; Dana was the first person to host an event at this venue.20th Anniversary Milestone: This year’s event celebrates two decades and aims to host 700 attendees with a fundraising goal of $650,000.Efficiency & Impact: The ACS maintains a low overhead (12% to 15%) so that 80% or more of funds go directly to the cause.Local Support: While funds support national research, a specific "paddle raise" keeps money in Oklahoma to provide patients with gas cards, Uber rides, and lodging for treatments.Opportunity: Dana is currently seeking a title sponsor for this year’s milestone event. Marketing & Life PhilosophyMarketing Strategy: Dana advocates for "outside the box" thinking and believes marketing is about identifying a need and creating a solution.The "Workhorse" Brand: She describes her personal brand as a "workhorse," a tireless work ethic she learned from her father.Living Boldly: Dana defines "living boldly" as pushing yourself to be your best and serving as a living example of your values.Family Influence: Her children have helped her become more empathetic and collaborative; she strives to be present for all their school and sporting events.Advice for Newcomers: For those new to Tulsa, Dana recommends getting involved with a local nonprofit or school to build community connections. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

February 28, 2026Episode 981 hr 32 min

Behind the Demand Confronting Child Trafficking with Jamie Miller

We are just two episodes away from the big 100! Before we get to the celebration, we take a deep dive into two very different types of numbers in this gripping and eye-opening episode.First, the host kicks things off with his precise, "numbers-driven" method for brewing the perfect espresso to create a perfect cortado. Our guest, Jamie Miller, also shares her unique relationship with numbers—hating math, but loving measurement—tracing how this appreciation evolved through cosmetology school and into her current professional life.Then, the tone shifts as Jamie Miller, of The Demand Project, shares her incredible personal journey and her mission to fight child trafficking. Jamie reveals her background, the chilling moment she first discovered child trafficking, how she overcame a spiritual encounter that tried to stop her exploration, and how a remarkably successful fundraiser in July 2020 led her to The Demand Project just weeks before they opened the nation’s largest safe house for child trafficking survivors.We discuss the pillars of The Demand Project—Prevention, Education, and Restoration—and the staggering financial reality of caring for these survivors. Finally, this episode confront shocking statistics surrounding trafficking, the age of pornography exposure, the alarming intersection between traffickers and the DHS foster care system, and the devastating lack of resources for survivors nationwide.This is a must-listen episode about business mindset, the power of grassroots funding, and the urgent reality of child trafficking in America.KEY TAKEAWAYS Knowing measurements provides satisfaction and a way to make adjustments.The Demand Project safe house is the largest in the nation with 25 beds. Most only have eightThere are only 661 beds total in the entire country for child trafficking survivors. 26 states have zero beds.70% of trafficked children are in the DHS foster care system.The annual cost to care for one child at the safe house is $75,000.One child can generate $375,000 per year for a trafficker.The average age for a female trafficking victim is 12 years old.The average age of pornography exposure has dropped two years in the last five years, sitting at seven years old in 2025.76% of professing Christian men view pornography at least once a week.Some resources you might get interested:The Demand Project: https://thedemandproject.org/ThE Bark Phone for Kids: https://www.bark.us/learn/the-bark-phone-for-kids-ps/?utm_source=aw&utm_medium=paid-search&utm_campaign=kids-phone-branded-google&utm_content=147666934708&utm_term=kwd-918710695802&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17664435801&gclid=Cj0KCQiAy6vMBhDCARIsAK8rOgnsy8ptNIheyjEIm5iR5SVa4Y4UA6Gte_OOn5AVi4w1RIJqxESOjCEaAoUeEALw_wcBEnjoyed this episode? Leave us a rating and review!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

February 14, 2026Episode 971 hr 11 min

2026, Lessons You Only Learn by Doing with Abel Rodriguez

In this episode of Brews and Business, the hosts reflect on what the podcast has meant to them—both personally and professionally and dive into the real, unfiltered realities of business ownership. They talk about missing the rhythm of consistent conversations with like-minded entrepreneurs, how podcasting sharpened their communication and interviewing skills, and why being on camera helped them gain confidence when connecting with high-level professionals. The conversation also explores the mindset shift that comes with business ownership, setting boundaries with clients, and why many entrepreneurs feel “officially unemployable.” The episode wraps with an honest discussion about economic uncertainty, industry stagnation, and how rapid change especially after the COVID has impacted service-based businesses. From four-day work weeks to weathering slowdowns, this episode is about finding rhythm, protecting mental health, and staying grounded when the business world feels unpredictable. Key Notes / TakeawaysPodcasting created consistency, rhythm, and meaningful conversations outside the daily grindHosting a podcast improves communication, curiosity, interviewing, and sales skillsBeing on camera builds confidence and reduces intimidation when networkingHigh-level professionals are “just people too,” making connection easierBusiness ownership creates a fundamentally different mindset than employmentMany owners feel tempted to clock in, clock out, and let problems be “not my problem”Financial freedom allows flexibility and future career shiftsSetting boundaries is essential—even if it costs clientsA four-day work week (or closed Fridays) significantly improves mental healthDigital businesses often face unrealistic 24/7 client expectationsNot every fire needs to be put out immediately—some resolve themselvesEconomic stagnation is harder than clear downturns because it stalls decision-makingMarketing and landscaping are often cut first during tight economic timesCOVID created a temporary boom in home-based industries, followed by a correctionToo much change too fast prevents businesses from finding a new rhythmEpisode Chapters00:00 – Introduction & Reflecting on the PodcastWhy the rhythm of consistent conversations was missed04:30 – What Podcasting Teaches YouCommunication, curiosity, interviewing, and confidence growth10:15 – Networking Without IntimidationRealizing industry leaders are just people15:40 – “Officially Unemployable” MindsetWhy business owners think differently than employees21:10 – The Allure of Clocking In and OutWhy owners sometimes want fewer responsibilities26:30 – Financial Freedom & Career FlexibilityRethinking lifelong careers and future business ideas33:45 – Setting Boundaries with ClientsWhy saying no matters more than saying yes39:20 – The Four-Day Work Week ExperimentMental health, team morale, and closing on Fridays46:10 – Losing Clients by Creating BoundariesWhy it’s sometimes necessary—and worth it52:30 – Fires That Can WaitLetting problems resolve themselves57:40 – Business Stagnation & Economic UncertaintyWhy not knowing is worse than knowing things are bad1:04:15 – Industries Hit First in Tough TimesMarketing, landscaping, and service-based businesses1:10:00 – Post-COVID Business RealityFrom boom to crunch and finding a new normal1:15:30 – Too Much Change, Too FastWhy businesses need time to reset and find rhythmBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

January 31, 2026Episode 9649 min

Building Broken Arrow’s Future: The April 2026 GO Bond Explained

What does it take to keep Broken Arrow one of the safest and most vibrant cities in Oklahoma? In this episode, we sit down with City Manager Michael Spurgeon and Mayor Wimpey to pull back the curtain on the upcoming April 2026 General Obligation (GO) Bond. We dive deep into the eight critical propositions on the April 7th ballot—ranging from essential infrastructure like roads and storm water management to exciting quality-of-life upgrades like a new Senior Center and indoor pickleball courts. You’ll also learn about the unique "Proposition 8," a temporary sales tax designed to turn Broken Arrow into a premier sports tournament destination, ensuring that visitors help foot the bill for our local field upgrades. If you care about how your city grows, how your tax dollars are spent, and what the future of public safety looks like in your neighborhood, this is a must-watch conversation.Show Notes[00:00] City Government 101: Understanding the City Manager vs. Strong-Mayor structure.[03:45] The April 2026 GO Bond: Why April 7th is a critical date for BA residents.[07:20] Strengthening Public Safety: Plans for two new fire stations and enhanced early warning sirens.[12:15] Quality of Life & Parks: Moving the Senior Center and the expansion of the Rose District Plaza.[18:30] Proposition 8 Deep Dive: The temporary 5-year sales tax for sports facilities.Why turfing our fields is an economic game-changer.How 40-45% of the funding will come from visitors, not just residents.[25:10] The Two-Year Planning Process: How citizen surveys and town halls shaped these propositions.[29:45] How to Get Involved: Details on the four public forums coming in March.[32:00] Closing Thoughts: Where to find the full package at BrokenArrowOK.govBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

December 20, 2025Episode 9548 min

Diamonds Uncut: The Truth Behind Value, Resale & the Industry with Adel Nasreddine

In this episode, Braedon Kruse sits down with Adel Nasreddine, founder and owner of Israel Diamond Supply, one of the most respected engagement ring and diamond jewelry companies in the Midwest. Known for his transparency, industry expertise, and dedication to educating buyers, Adel pulls back the curtain on one of the world’s most misunderstood industries: the diamond and fine jewelry market.Adel shares his journey from the early beginnings of Israel Diamond Supply to building a brand rooted in trust, craftsmanship, and customer empowerment. Together, Braedon and Adel dispel common myths, expose industry secrets, and answer the questions consumers wish they could ask a jeweler but rarely do.This episode uncovers everything from how diamond pricing actually works, to the truth about resale value, to quality differences, lab-grown vs. natural, and how to avoid being overcharged plus, a deeper discussion around the emotional and cultural significance behind engagement rings.Whether you're shopping for a ring, curious how the industry really works, or just love a great entrepreneurial story, this episode brings unheard insights, real answers, and transparency you won’t find anywhere else.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

November 22, 2025Episode 941 hr 27 min

OklaHOME for Christmas: Waste, Music, and Meaning with American Waste Control

In this episode of Brews & Business, Braedon sits down with Paul Ross (Vice President) and Sarah Abbot (Marketing Director) of American Waste Control, one of Tulsa’s most iconic and community-driven companies.They dive into the heart of AWC’s mission — transforming waste into energy, educating communities through Mr. Murph, and building a people-first culture rooted in Integrity, Passion, Accountability, and People-Focus.Paul shares insights into leading a 235-truck operation, fostering innovation in recycling, and balancing leadership with family life as a father of five. Sarah highlights how creativity drives engagement — from viral music videos to the OklaHOME for Christmas parade.Together, they reveal how waste management goes far beyond trash — it’s about sustainability, education, and community pride.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

November 8, 2025Episode 931 hr 2 min

Pretty Good at Drinking Beer BBQ with Jason Rains

SummaryThis is the story of how a "pipe dream," a full-time job, and a Billy Currington song accidentally launched one of barbecue's most memorable brands.Jason Rains, the founder of "Pretty Good At Drinking Beer Barbecue," joins us to share his wild 15-year journey. He started with zero experience and a team name that’s a marketing nightmare (but a fan favorite). He pulls no punches, recounting the story of finishing "dead ass last" at a major competition only to fight his way back to a Grand Reserve (second place) finish years later.In this episode, Jason shares the unfiltered story behind his brand, his bold quest to create a sauce "better than Head Country" (a big deal in Oklahoma!), and his new projects, including a non-traditional smoker cookbook and a revolutionary no-sugar-added sauce sweetened with monk fruit.More than just barbecue, this is a story about community, passion, and hustle. Jason balances his full-time job and a return to college for digital marketing, all while running his growing business. His core philosophy? "Food doesn't care about your race. Food doesn't care about your religion... Food brings people together."In this episode, you'll learn:The Origin Story: How a Billy Currington song on a back porch led to the "PGADB" brand.The Competition Grind: The truth about competing, from finishing "dead ass last" in 2015 to claiming a top prize.Oklahoma Sauce Wars: The cultural importance of Head Country and Jason's mission to create a sauce he loves even more.What's Next: A sneak peek at his upcoming second cookbook (focused on non-traditional smoker dishes) and his new no-sugar-added sauce.The "Pipe Dream": How Jason's passion project evolved into a legitimate business with employees.Core Philosophy: Why supporting local businesses and the spirit of community define the barbecue world.The Big Picture: Jason's powerful belief that food is the ultimate unifier, transcending politics, religion, and race.Chapters:0:23 The Origin of "Pretty Good At Drinking Beer Barbecue"3:06 Branding Challenges and Success4:18 Barbecue Competition Experiences5:38 The Evolution of BBQ Sauces6:07 Head Country BBQ Sauce in Oklahoma7:07 Changing Judge Preferences8:12 Developing a Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce10:11 Barbecue Sauce and Family11:37 The Science of Smoking Meat15:06 Smoker Recommendations: Hasty Bake and Oklahoma Joe19:00 The Nook and Local Business Support21:19 Philosophy of Supporting Local Businesses22:19 Challenges of Competing with Big Box Retailers24:26 Why "Pretty Good At Drinking Beer Barbecue" Avoids Walmart25:27 Working with Homeland Stores27:38 The Realities of the BBQ Sauce Business29:59 Shipping BBQ Sauce Nationwide31:09 The Power of Food to Bring People Together31:56 Juggling a Full-Time Job and a "Pipe Dream" Business33:09 The First Cookbook: "I'd Smoke That"34:09 Non-Traditional Smoker Recipes37:18 Plans for the Second Cookbook39:31 The Value of Teaching and Community40:06 Smooth Sailing and Stressful Times41:09 Leaving a Legacy41:35 The Camaraderie of the Barbecue World43:24 First Grand Reserve Win46:25 Helping Fellow Competitors50:18 Favorite Food (Not Barbecue)51:00 Regional Barbecue Styles52:48 Belief in Luck vs. Smartness53:34 Returning to College for Digital MarketingBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

October 25, 2025Episode 921 hr 33 min

Behind the Badge: Leadership Lessons from Chief Lance Arnold

Summary:In this episode of Brews & Business, host Braedon Kruse sits down with Chief Lance Arnold, Chief of Police for Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Together, they explore the parallels between running a business and leading a police department, the importance of wellness and training for officers, and lessons in leadership that apply across industries. Chief Arnold shares stories from his decades in law enforcement, his commitment to community engagement, and his vision for building a strong culture of accountability and trust. The conversation highlights adaptability, transparency, and servant leadership as key elements in both policing and business.Chapters:00:00 – IntroductionBraedon welcomes Chief Arnold and sets the stage for a conversation about leadership, law enforcement, and community.03:00 – Building a Culture of WellnessLance shares how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was introduced to his department as part of officer wellness and safety initiatives.10:15 – Lessons from Leadership SurprisesLance describes how he reacts to unexpected initiatives and how leaders should embrace ideas from their team.18:40 – Parallels Between Business & PolicingDiscussion on how running a police department mirrors running a business: managing budgets, people, and long-term vision.27:05 – Community EngagementThe role of transparency, public trust, and connecting with citizens.35:20 – Overcoming Challenges in LeadershipHandling criticism, accountability, and fostering resilience in an organization.45:10 – Mentorship & Core ValuesChief Arnold shares lessons from his mentors and the principles that guide his decision-making.55:00 – Future of LeadershipA reflection on what makes a great leader in both policing and business, and advice for the next generation.01:00:00 – Closing ThoughtsBraedon and Lance wrap up with key takeaways on leadership, adaptability, and building trust in any organization. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

October 11, 2025Episode 911 hr 19 min

Chinh Doan’s Journey of Faith, Family & Grit

In this conversation, Braedon Kruse and Chinh Doan discuss Chinh's remarkable journey from a challenging childhood in Vietnam to becoming a successful entrepreneur and storyteller. They explore themes of family, cultural transition, the importance of storytelling in pitching clients, and the challenges of entrepreneurship. Chinh shares her experiences of reuniting with her mother after 18 years and the lessons learned from her father's resilience and faith. The conversation emphasizes the importance of adaptability, the value of relationships, and the mindset needed for success in both personal and professional life.TakeawaysFamily dynamics and cultural transitions shape personal growth.Storytelling is crucial in pitching clients and building relationships.Reuniting with family after years apart can be a transformative experience.Lessons from parents can instill resilience and determination.Entrepreneurship requires adaptability and a willingness to pivot.The importance of community and support in achieving goals.Life experiences shape our decisions and perspectives.It's essential to choose your hard in life and business.Success is often a result of the decisions we make and the people we surround ourselves with.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Podcast Format02:29 Exciting Opportunities in New York City06:20 The Art of Storytelling and Pitching Clients09:41 Chinh's Entrepreneurial Journey Begins22:05 Cultural Transition and Family Dynamics38:38 Reuniting with Family After 18 Years44:58 Lessons from Family and Personal Growth58:45 The Challenges of Entrepreneurship01:16:10 Reflections on Life Choices and Future GoalsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

October 4, 2025Episode 901 hr 44 min

Leadership & the Future of Broken Arrow with James Bell

Summary:James Bell, President & CEO of the Broken Arrow Chamber & EDC, details the strategy behind Broken Arrow's rapid growth on the Brews & Business podcast with host Braedon Kruse.Bell, who joined in September 2024, discusses his unique career path from medical devices to startups and, finally, economic development, explaining why he sees Broken Arrow as a "Goldilocks City." He shares his vision for the community, which focuses on balancing the attraction of primary jobs (manufacturers and tech) with nurturing small businesses and local entrepreneurs. Bell emphasizes that community development is the foundation for economic development, highlighting the Chamber's work in advocacy and workforce development, including the successful push for Senate Bill 701 (SB 701). He concludes by offering advice for entrepreneurs and discussing the personal legacy he aims to build in Broken Arrow. Key Takeaways The Journey to BA was Personal and Providential: James Bell openly shares his non-linear career path, noting several instances where he resisted a push toward economic development and entrepreneurship before realizing his true calling and moving his family to Broken Arrow for its community, schools, and growth opportunities.Community Development is the Foundation: James stresses that economic success hinges on community development—ensuring the city is a high-quality place to live, which then attracts the businesses that create "primary jobs" that bring new money into the economy. Retail and small businesses, often overlooked in economic development discussions, are essential for this quality of life.The Chamber’s True Value is Beyond Networking: While the Chamber hosts many networking events, its core value lies in advocacy (like fighting for SB 701), business retention and expansion (where most new jobs are created), and providing research and resources that help small businesses and entrepreneurs succeed.It’s Never Too Late to Start or Pivot: Drawing from his own experience of returning to school in his late 30s for a two-year pre-med program and MBA, and jumping into a new career later in life, James encourages entrepreneurs to embrace change and new beginnings, reminding them that the average successful entrepreneur starts in their 40s.Advice for Entrepreneurs: Get Out of the Building: James advises that the answers to business problems are "not inside the building you're sitting in." Entrepreneurs must go out and talk to 60-100 people about the problem and their proposed solution to truly understand the market and adapt before investing heavily.Episode Chapters 00:00 – 03:00Intro: Welcome, Gregoron Coffee Roasters Sponsor & Promo Code 03:00 – 05:30What’re We Drinking? (Coffee of the Day Discussion) 05:30 – 11:30The Winding Road to Broken Arrow: From Medical Sales to Economic Development 11:30 – 16:30Why Broken Arrow? Finding the "Goldilocks City" and its Growth Position 16:30 – 21:00The City vs. The Chamber: Understanding the Role of the Broken Arrow Chamber & EDC 21:00 – 28:00The Power of Advocacy: How the Chamber Fought for SB 701 (4-Year Degrees) 28:00 – 35:00The Three-Legged Stool: Attraction, Retention/Expansion, and Entrepreneurship 35:00 – 43:00Defining Success & The True Value of a Chamber Membership 43:00 – 49:30Broken Arrow's Unique Growth: Retail, Manufacturing, and Quality of Life Rankings 49:30 – 58:45The Personal Journey: From Corporate Climbing to Entrepreneurial Scars 58:45 – 1:04:00Entrepreneurial Advice: Better to Be Prepared or Just Start? 1:04:00 – 1:07:30Core Questions: Lucky or Smart? & The Legacy of a Leader 1:07:30Wrap-Up, Call to Action, & Sponsor ReminderBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.