Butchie's Den

Butchie's Den LIVE is back! Brian "Butchie" Butch and friends get you set for the weekend in Wisconsin sports — Badgers, Packers and everything in between. This week: • Starting 5 — five questions to kick off the morning • Bart Winkler (Into the Winklerverse) • Zach Heilprin (Big Ten Network / The Zone) — Badgers at Iowa: is the College Football Playoff still in play, and why winning in Iowa City is all that matters • Bill Schmid (Packers Radio Network) — Packers talk • Dr. Nate Williams (Rehab Lab Wisconsin) — Zaire Franklin's shin fracture and what the road back looks like • Butchie's Mailbag — send your questions to butchiesden@gmail.com Butchie's Den LIVE streams every Friday at 7:30 AM CT on YouTube, Facebook, X and Twitch. Presented by Middleton Ford, Rehab Lab Wisconsin, AbbyBank and Gallant Knight Limousine. Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@brian_butch32 Follow Butchie: Instagram & X @brian_butch32 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wisconsin basketball is back. Butchie and friends preview the 2026-27 Badgers ahead of Monday’s season opener against Denver. On the show: • Nick Osen, Badgers 247 • Matt Lepay, the voice of the Badgers • Austin Rapp, Wisconsin #22 • Greg “Hoops” Peterson, Greg Peterson Sports Greg Gard opens his 12th season in Madison at 237-128, coming off 24-11 and an NCAA round-of-64 finish. The Badgers went 3-0 in the exhibitions — 94-71 over UW-Parkside, 96-77 at Green Bay, 82-65 against Oklahoma State — averaging 90.7 points on 50.6% shooting, with the same five starting all three: Foxwell, Elmer, Winter, Onuetu and Janicki. True freshman Owen Foxwell led the team in scoring in every exhibition, 16.7 points and 5.0 assists a game. Nolan Winter is Wisconsin’s only preseason All-Big Ten honoree, going for 12.3 and 6.7 boards on 68.2% shooting. Big Ten beat writers picked the Badgers 11th of 18. The season tips Monday, November 2 against Denver at the Kohl Center, 6:30 CT on B1G+. Big Ten play opens December 1 at Northwestern. Butchie’s Den is presented by Middleton Ford and Rehab Lab, with support from Gallant Knight Limousine and AbbyBank. Questions for the mailbag: butchiesden@gmail.com butchiesden.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wisconsin Badgers TE Jacob Harris joins Butchie's Den to talk about the fun and grit of the Badger football season. Hear his hilarious take on his viral 70-yard touchdown run, the team's locker room mindset after big wins, and how they bounced back from tough losses like UCLA. Plus, Jacob reveals his surprising off-field passions: birding and his pet snake! A must-listen for Badger fans. Listen to the full episode and follow Butchie's Den on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQeSmFDydIhmEyw) and Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/butchies-den/id1877905664). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Charlie Wills (1998-2002) joins Butchie to share the incredible, never-before-heard story of confronting Coach Bo Ryan during a critical team moment – a confrontation that ultimately galvanized their Big Ten championship season. Hear how Charlie's era set a new standard for Wisconsin Basketball, the contrasting coaching styles of Dick Bennett and Bo Ryan, and hilarious locker room anecdotes. This episode is packed with behind-the-scenes tales from a Badger legend: from being underestimated to claiming a Big Ten title, the emergence of Devin Harris, and the teammates who made it all possible. Plus, a rapid-fire round revealing who had the most 'swagger.' Listen to Charlie Wills relive his unforgettable Wisconsin career. Follow Butchie's Den for more exclusive interviews and authentic Wisconsin sports talk. Also available on Apple Podcasts. https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQeSmFDydIhmEyw #ad #sponsored Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's a big Wisconsin sports breakdown on Butchie's Den! Chuck Freimund from Locked On Brewers joins to discuss the Brewers' dominant 2-0 World Series lead, the bullpen's incredible performance, Sal Frelick's memorable home run, and the possibility of Woody starting Game 4. Then, Butchie and Justin Holt tackle the Green Bay Packers' controversial loss, ripping into the NFL's officiating crisis and Matt LaFleur's public silence. Plus, get the scoop on the Wisconsin Badgers cracking the Top 25 and if Luke Fickell's team is built for a deep run. Listen in for fun, unfiltered Wisconsin sports talk! Follow Butchie's Den on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQeSmFDydIhmEyw Also available on Apple Podcasts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join former Wisconsin Badger Brian Butch for another edition of Butchie’s Den LIVE! Butchie breaks down the biggest stories across Wisconsin sports, shares his perspective from inside the game, and is joined by guests from around the sports world. From the Wisconsin Badgers to the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Bucks, Milwaukee Brewers, and everything in between, Butchie’s Den brings you Wisconsin sports talk without the fluff. Jump into the live chat, share your takes, and be part of the show. Drop your questions in the chat or send them to the mailbag: [butchiesden@gmail.com](mailto:butchiesden@gmail.com) Watch LIVE on YouTube, X, Facebook & Twitch Sponsored by: Rehab Lab & Middleton Ford Follow Butchie’s Den: X: @brian_butch32 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Brian_Butch32 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brian_butch32 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583553535109 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2 #ButchiesDen #WisconsinSports #Packers #GreenBayPackers #PackersFootball #GoPackGo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wisconsin Associate Head Coach Joe Krabbenhoft joins Butchie's Den for a fun, unfiltered look inside Badger basketball, from hilarious player excuses to the team's preparation for the season. Butchie and Krabby dive into: - The coaching perspective on exhibition games and player development. - How the team is handling Braeden Carrington's eligibility. - The unique toughness of the 'Kiwis' (Hayden and Jackson). - Krabby's favorite coaching phrases and insights on Bo Ryan vs. Greg Gard. - The all-time worst player excuse he's heard. Listen to the full conversation for an authentic take on Wisconsin Hoops from one of the program's key coaches. Listen and follow Butchie's Den wherever you get your podcasts, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQeSmFDydIhmEyw #ad #sponsored Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brevin Pritzl pulls back the curtain on his Badger career and wild pro journey! The former Wisconsin guard joins Butchie's Den for a fun, honest conversation about the pressure of being an in-state recruit, adapting his game for Coach Gard (including a memorable haircut story!), and the shocking end to his senior season due to COVID. He dives into his unique overseas experiences, from tough times in Serbia to rediscovering his love for the game in Denmark. Plus, Brevin shares his thoughts on playing for Bo Ryan and Greg Gard, beating #1 Villanova, and his unfiltered rapid-fire answers about his Badger teammates. Listen now for behind-the-scenes stories from a true Wisconsin native. Listen & Follow Butchie's Den: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQeSmFDydIhmEyw Also available on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/butchies-den/id1877905664 For entertainment purposes, not medical advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Green Bay Phoenix Head Coach Doug Gottlieb joins Butchie's Den for a fun and candid breakdown of his team's exhibition game against the Wisconsin Badgers. Hear his honest thoughts on Green Bay's fight, Wisconsin's game adjustments, the Badgers' dominant point guard, and the lessons both teams are taking forward. This episode covers key coaching insights, the challenges of foul trouble, and a deep dive into his star player, Marcus Hall. Listen now for a unique perspective on Wisconsin college hoops. Listen to more Butchie's Den wherever you get your podcasts, including Apple Podcasts! Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQeSmFDydIhmEyw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Butchie and Czabe for a fun-filled 'Mondays in the Den' covering all things Wisconsin sports! They break down the Packers' recent surge, debating if this team is finally turning the corner and the exciting emergence of Mathew Golden. Get Czabe's wild theory about Mike McCarthy's mysterious halftime blue tent visit, and hear their unfiltered thoughts on why NFL officiating has made the game a "tough watch," from taunting flags to absurd roughing the passer calls. They also dive into the chaos of college football replay, Czabe's take on Kirk Herbstreit, and the joy of the Brewers' World Series run—plus a debate on those eye-watering ticket prices. Listen and follow Butchie's Den on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQeSmFDydIhmEyw Also available on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/butchies-den/id1877905664 and everywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Butchie sits down with Green Bay Phoenix Head Coach Doug Gottlieb for an in-depth conversation about building a mid-major program, navigating tough scheduling, and a detailed scout of the Wisconsin Badgers basketball team. Gottlieb breaks down Wisconsin's roster, including key players like Foxwell, Klesmit, and Winter, and their offensive philosophy. He also discusses the strategy behind scheduling exhibition games against both Wisconsin and Marquette, the financial realities for mid-major programs, and his unique recruiting approach for in-state talent. Listen as Coach Gottlieb shares his rapid-fire takes on the best college basketball program, underrated coaches, and the one rule he'd change in college hoops. Plus, hear a powerful story about the Scott Carter Memorial Award and its impact on his team. Sponsored By Middleton Ford & Rehab Lab Wisconsin Listen to more Butchie's Den on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQJSmFDydIhmEyw Also available on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/butchies-den/id1877905664 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former Wisconsin Badger John Ellenson joins Butchie’s Den to share exclusive stories from his time playing under Coach Yoder (1988-1991), including a powerful tribute to his dominant teammate Patrick Tompkins, the thrill of beating #1 Michigan, and the tight-knit locker room that defined his era. Ellenson also opens up about his unique family journey with sons playing for rival Marquette and his post-basketball journey with Fika Spice. Listen in for a hype-filled look back at Badger basketball history. Listen to more Butchie's Den on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQeSmFDydIhmEyw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/butchies-den/id1877905664 #ad #sponsored Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Butchie as he talks with author Nick Weisheipl about his new book, "All The Way to State." This episode goes beyond the game, exploring why high school basketball holds such a special place in Wisconsin communities. Nick shares insights from the Altuna High School Railroaders' 1990 state tournament run, the purity of high school sports, and the lasting ripple effect on small towns. From epic rivalries to the unique perspective of a former player and coach, this conversation is a must-listen for any Wisconsin basketball fan. Listen now and relive the magic of local hoops! Follow Butchie's Den on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQeSmFDydIhmEyw Also available on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/butchies-den/id1877905664 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover how former Wisconsin Badger big man Dave Mader (2000-04) leveraged lessons from coaches Bennett, Soderberg, and Ryan to build a successful career off the court. He shares insights on mental toughness, adapting to different coaching styles, and cherished Final Four memories. Follow Butchie's Den: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQSmFDydIhmEyw Also available on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/butchies-den/id1877905664 #ad #sponsored Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get ready for an exclusive conversation with Wisconsin Badger #11 Isaac Riddle! This episode features his unique path from Australia to becoming a key part of the Badger Basketball squad. Isaac shares what it's like adjusting to college physicality, the competitive fire within the team, and what Coach Gard's intensity truly means. Hear his candid rapid-fire takes on his teammates, his surprising NIL dream, and his message to loyal Wisconsin fans. Tune in for hype, insights, and a whole lot of Badger basketball talk. Listen to the full conversation now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQeSmFDydIhmEyw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/butchies-den/id1877905664 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Badger Victory Onuetu sits down with Butchie to discuss his journey from Spain to Wisconsin basketball. Hear about his unique connection with coach Brad Davison (who was once his teammate!), how the coaching staff has boosted his confidence, and what makes his physical, defensive game stand out. Plus, he talks about getting lost on campus, his love for soccer, and his unexpected hobbies like producing music and DJing. Listen now for an exclusive look into Victory's first season with the Badgers! Listen to more Butchie's Den: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQeSmFDydIhmEyw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/butchies-den/id1877905664 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wisconsin Badger fans, get ready for the new basketball season! Assistant Coach Sharif Chambliss joins Butchie’s Den to share exclusive insights into the team's depth, exciting player development, and what to expect from the Badgers. Butchie and Sharif dive into the intensity of early practices, the growth of players like Will Garlock and Zach Kinsinger, the team's defensive focus, and the impact of the upcoming exhibition games. Sharif also talks about Bo Ryan's recent visit and navigating the ever-changing college basketball landscape. Tune in for an authentic, fun conversation about your Wisconsin Badgers. Listen to Butchie's Den: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQeSmFDydIhmEyw Also available on Apple Podcasts. For entertainment purposes, not medical advice. #ad #sponsored Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wisconsin football legend Tarek Saleh joins Butchie's Den to dive into the iconic 1994 Rose Bowl team, sharing incredible behind-the-scenes stories including the unforgettable, chaotic trip to Tokyo and what it took to build the foundation of Badger football. Tarek also reveals the personal mentorship of Barry Alvarez, how he earned the 'Godfather' nickname, and why his passion for Wisconsin athletics still burns bright. Plus, hear his unfiltered one-word associations for rivals like Michigan and Ohio State, and his blind ranking of Wisconsin traditions. Listen to the full conversation to hear: - Why Tarek Saleh still lives and breathes Wisconsin football. - Barry Alvarez's unique way of showing love and mentorship. - The "burning the ships" mentality before the Tokyo game. - The wild post-game celebration in Tokyo with Michigan State. - Tarek's current take on the state of Wisconsin football and Coach Fickel's squad. Follow Butchie's Den on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more Wisconsin sports stories from the players who lived it. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQySmFDydIhmEyw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/butchies-den/id1877905664 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wisconsin transfer Eian Elmer sits down with Butchie to discuss his bold claim of being one of the best shooters in the country, his high goals for the Badgers this season, and his personal NBA dreams. Listen in as Elmer shares why Wisconsin was the ideal choice from the transfer portal, offering a program that helps players reach their full potential. Elmer gives a candid look at Coach Greg Gard's unique coaching style, which fosters trust and leadership, and the competitive environment playing alongside Wisconsin's three 7-footers. He dives into the team's chemistry, his thoughts on what defines Wisconsin Basketball culture, and a fun rapid-fire segment revealing teammate personalities, including who's the best dunker and who's most likely to be late. Tune in for an engaging conversation about Badger hoops, Eian's journey, and what to expect from him as he aims for a Big Ten Championship and a deep NCAA tournament run. You can also listen on Apple Podcasts. Follow Butchie's Den on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQySmFDydIhmEyw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wisconsin Hall of Famer Mike Wilkinson joins Butchie's Den for a conversation you won't want to miss. Hear the real story behind Bo Ryan's coaching tactics, including whether he ever laid into Devin Harris. Mike shares incredible tales from his 9-year overseas career, featuring everything from duct-taped airplanes to ref scandals and players running their own practices. This episode covers: - Life after basketball: farm, business, and family - The transition from Dick Bennett to Bo Ryan - Bo's unique motivational strategies - Hilarious insider stories about Badger teammates like Devin Harris - The extreme physicality of Wisconsin practices - Mike's journey through professional basketball in Greece, Russia, Turkey, and Bulgaria - Unforgettable moments and lessons learned as a Badger Listen to the full episode for a fun, authentic dive into the life of a Wisconsin legend. Follow Butchie's Den on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQeSmFDydIhmEyw Available on Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices