A Live Storytelling Event

Real Stories. Real People. Real Good Beer.

Welcome to The Commons—a live storytelling event hosted right here at Jack Pine Brewery. Whether you’ve got a story to share or just want to sit back with a pint and hear something heartfelt, hilarious, or just plain human, you’re in the right place.

Everyone has a story. Let’s hear yours.

the Commons noun

1. A broad set of resources—both natural (like air, water, and forests) and cultural (like knowledge, traditions, and public spaces)—that are collectively shared, managed, or used by a community rather than owned privately.

Upcoming Events

All events run from 7:00–8:30 PM in the taproom. No tickets, no pressure. Just show up.

May 15 – Before and After
July 17 – Super-Heroes
September 18 – Rule Breaker
(tentative) October 16 – Cold Feet
November 20 – Rule Follower

Themes are optional. You can tell any story you want—as long as it's yours.

How It Works

Put your name in the hat when you're ready to tell your story
If your name gets drawn, you get 5–7 minutes to tell your story.
(We’ll give you a 2-minute warning.)
A note card is okay, but don't "read your story"
Mom says don't curse, but sometimes there just isn't the right word.
Extra applause if your story follows the theme.
Make it true—or at least truth-inspired. Just don’t tell someone else’s story.

✅ Do

Introduce yourself and pull us in.
Share something honest, funny, or moving.
Support other storytellers with laughs, applause, or gasps.
Make your minutes count.

❌ Don’t

Use someone else’s story as a punchline or plot twist.
Rant, lecture, or give a TED Talk.
Be afraid to try. We’re all in this together.

Who’s Behind This?

We’re Randy and Terese—and a few unsuspecting friends and family we roped in to help. We love a good story and a good crowd, and we started The Commons to bring both to the Brainerd Lakes Area.

So come grab a beer, bring a story, and let’s create something together.

Questions?

Reach out to us through our facebook page. While you're there, give us a follow!