This week on Heartland Hot Dish, we’re cracking open a cold one — of the fizzy, sugary sort — to explore the Midwest’s deep love affair with soda (or as most of us say, pop). From garage fridges stocked with Faygo and Vernors, to childhood memories of cracking cans at Little League games, we dive into why pop is practically a cultural cornerstone here.

We’ll trace how regional sodas got their start, share stories about quirky Midwestern flavors (red pop, anyone?), and tackle the age-old debate: is it pop or soda? Expect fizzy fun facts, taste tests, and a few burps along the way.

So grab a glass (or a straw straight from the can — we won’t judge) and join us for a bubbly ride through the Midwest’s pop culture.