Brews & Banter

• #121 From Airborne to Airborne Cameras – A Conversation with Gary Phipps

  In this episode, we sit down over beers with Gary Phipps—a full-time drone operator, Army veteran, and writer focused on survival and prepping. Gary shares his incredible journey from a challenging childhood in Illinois to serving in the elite 82nd Airborne Division, and eventually finding his passion in drone piloting and digital content creation. We talk about resilience, reinvention, and how stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to unexpected opportunities. Along the way, Gary opens up about family, faith, military life, and what it really takes to start over. It’s a laid-back but deeply inspiring conversation full of life lessons, practical advice, and a few laughs—including his reaction to a local brewery's bold new beer.Whether you're into tech, personal growth, or just love a good story, this one’s for you.

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• #120 Pouring Support & Breaking Stigmas: Nicole Lawrence on Psychology, COVID's Impact, and Opening Her Own Practice

  In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, we’re joined by local therapist Nicole Lawrence founder of Illuminate Counseling Creative Arts Therapy, PLLC., who sits down with us over one of her favorite beers to talk about her journey from working in other practices to taking the leap and opening her own. Nicole shares the emotional and financial challenges of launching her business and the incredible support she received from her husband — including him picking up another job to help make her dream a reality. We also dive into the psychological ripple effects of the COVID era, especially how it has impacted kids, and the growing need for mental health awareness and care. This episode is a blend of laughs, respect, and powerful conversation. Cheers to Nicole, her husband’s service, and the courage it takes to chase a calling. [email protected]

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• #119 The Art of the Eight Limbs: Chong Returns with Syracuse's First Muay Thai School

  In this episode, we welcome back our friend Chong, who first joined us on the podcast a while ago. This time, he returns with exciting news — he’s officially opened the first Muay Thai school in Syracuse! We dive into his journey, from overcoming the challenges of launching the gym to the rapid growth that now has him already scouting for a bigger space. Chong shares what Muay Thai means to him, what sets his school apart, and his long-term vision for building his dream gym. Whether you're a fan of martial arts, an aspiring fighter, or just love a good underdog story — this one's packed with insight, inspiration, and a few laughs over a cold beer.@so8muaythai @science_of_eight_limbs www.so8muaythai.com

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• #118 Willow Rockin’ It with Rockney & Kevin of Willow Rock Brewing

  In this episode, we welcome back the awesome duo behind Willow Rock Brewing Company, Rockney and Kevin—but this time, they’re in our studio and they came bearing gifts (aka delicious beer)!We first toured their brewery last year, but this time we sat down to talk shop, sip on their fresh pours, and hear what’s new—including the exciting news about their new location opening in Cicero, NY. Willow Rock continues to crush the local craft beer game with a lineup ranging from their classic Lager to the fan-favorite Mister Zero hazy IPA—all brewed with intention, quality, and no FOMO.Of course, in true Brews & Banter fashion, it wasn’t all hops and head retention—we got into sports, hockey, and Kevin’s majestic beard (which apparently hasn’t revealed his chin in decades). There was plenty of ball-busting, laughter, and good vibes to go around.If you’re a beer lover or just someone who enjoys great convos and better company, this episode is a must.https://willowrockbrew.com

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• #117 Drool-Worthy Wisdom with Barb Stone

  We kicked this one off with a cold beer to warm things up and welcomed a truly insightful guest, Barbara (Barb) Stone. Barb’s story is anything but typical—after over 20 years in senior leadership, she realized she had been chasing someone else’s version of success. That wake-up call led her down a new path, diving deep into resilience, positive psychology, and ultimately redefining what it means to live a fulfilled life.Now a leadership development coach, Barb helps others carve out their own authentic journey—and she’s also the author of the heartfelt and inspiring book, So Much to Drool About. Through life lessons learned from her beloved Great Danes (Jazz, Beau, Aryanna, and Zeus), Barb shares simple but powerful reminders to live in the present, seek joy, and find the “drool-worthy” moments in everyday life.This episode is packed with wisdom, laughs, and real talk about purpose, change, and learning to listen to your own damn heart. https://barbstone.me@barb_stone_cny

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