Community Focus

Guests Michelle Gonska, Board President, and Laura Cook, Board Secretary and Show Chair, stop by to preview the 51st Annual Ice Show at the Essentia Health Sport Center. They'll share what audiences can expect from this year's performances, highlight special appearances by guest skater Sonja Hilmer at all three shows, and extend heartfelt thanks to the sponsors who make the event possible. Plus, they'll explain how skaters- young and old- can get involved with the Vacationland Figure Skating Club and become part of this long-standing community tradition.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest is Executive Director, Sarah SmithSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Kelli Johnson from Crow Wing County Public Health and Kara Schaefer, Community Health Specialist with Essentia Health, join to discuss the 8th Annual reThink Your Drink Water Challenge, encouraging residents to build healthier hydration habits. They also continue celebrating the carrot as the Vegetable of the Year, sharing simple ways to incorporate it into everyday meals. In addition, the guests preview the 5th Annual 5K for Mental Health Awareness, happening April 25, inviting the community to come together in support of mental health education, awareness, and local resources.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kennedy Niska, Executive Director of the Legacy Chorale of Greater Minnesota, joins to preview this weekend's highly anticipated Disney Spectacular performances. He shares what audiences can expect from this family-friendly celebration filled with iconic Disney favorites, vibrant staging, and talented local voices bringing the magic to life. Kennedy also highlights the upcoming Youth Choral Festival in March, an inspiring opportunity for young singers from across the region to come together, learn, and perform in a collaborative setting designed to foster both musical growth and community connection. Plus, the adult ensemble is hard at work preparing for an exciting collaboration with the National Lutheran Choir, a special partnership that promises a powerful and memorable choral experience for performers and audiences alike.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mallory Goerges, Crosslake Parade Committee Chair, and committee member Alisha Novak join the show to preview the 52nd Annual Crosslake St. Patrick's Day Parade, one of the region's biggest spring celebrations. They discuss the new 1:15 p.m. parade start time, along with returning favorites like the Pot O'Gold Hunt, 5K Clover Dash, and the lively Yardi Pardi festivities happening throughout town. The guests also highlight the parade raffle and Lucky Lanyard promotion, all as the community prepares to welcome thousands of visitors for a full day of Irish-themed fun, tradition, and celebration in Crosslake.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Becca Rugemer, Director of Marketing for IceFest, joins the show to preview this year's highly anticipated winter celebration. She shares details on the massive 714-foot Ice Carousel, how the team successfully brings the engineering feat to life, and whether organizers have their sights set on a future Guinness World Record attempt. Becca also highlights the many family-friendly activities planned throughout the event, from interactive winter attractions to entertainment designed for all ages, making IceFest a can't-miss experience for the entire community.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest is CEO Shane RiffleSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gary Hirsch, Director, Wendy DeGeest, Choreographer & Costumer, and Music Director Kennedy Niska from Stage North Theater stop by to preview their upcoming production of Forbidden Broadway, running February 26th-March 1st at the Franklin Arts Center. The long-running revue, hilariously spoofs some of Broadway's biggest musicals including Wicked, Les Misérables, The Lion King, Annie, and Rent. The team shares what audiences can expect from the fast-paced cabaret-style performances, clever musical parodies, and high-energy choreography that celebrate and poke fun at the magic of Broadway.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brad Chapulis, Baxter City Administrator, joins to discuss the latest developments on the Highway 371/210 overpass project, including an important update from MN DOT. He also reflects on key accomplishments from 2025 and previews what's shaping up to be a very busy 2026, with several new residential and commercial projects planned that will continue Baxter's rapid growth.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Nick Broyles, City Administrator, and Jessie Dehn, Brainerd City Engineer, discussing the upcoming Highway 210/Washington Street Reconstruction project, which is scheduled to begin this spring and continue through fall of 2027. While the work is being led by MnDOT, the City of Brainerd will play an active role in keeping residents informed, sharing updates, and helping the public understand each phase of the project as construction progresses.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben Gordon, Director, Ally Hartwig, Stage Manager, and Amelia Heinecke, cast member and Master of Ceremonies, join the show to preview the upcoming performances of The Tim Woodman of Oz. They discuss the size of the cast, how Gordon adapted the production from the original book by L. Frank Baum, and share details on performance dates, showtimes, and ticket pricing.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Hara Charlier, President of Central Lakes College – Brainerd Campus, joins to highlight February as Career and Technical Education Month and discusses the wide range of hands-on programs available at CLC for students who may not see a traditional college path as the right fit. She also shares details on the completion of CLC's major renovation project, previews the upcoming ribbon-cutting ceremony, and looks ahead to several exciting performing arts and athletic events coming to campus.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Debby Erickson, Crow Wing County Administrator, joins with an update on plow truck hours so far this winter. She also reminds residents to update their addresses to ensure they receive their property tax statements. Plus, we discuss the 102nd anniversary of the Milford Mining Disaster- and unveil the carrot as the 2026 Veggie of the Year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest is Faith Hamson with United Way, discussing their Partner Program grants and how local organizations can apply for funding. Faith also explains how community members can get involved through the United Way Vision Council, which helps review grant requests and guide where those dollars go. Plus, details on their upcoming Pop-Up Pantry.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Quinn Swanson, Executive Director of HDT, and Michelle Hoefs, Program Coordinator at HDT, join to preview this Saturday's Back to Basics event. With over 60 workshops and 55+ vendor booths, this well-attended event is a must for anyone looking to expand their knowledge of the outdoors and sustainable living. They share what to expect, who the event is perfect for, and why it's become a staple in the community year after year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest Becky Hale joins us to preview the 11th annual Choose Your Happy event, happening Saturday, February 7th at the Brainerd American Legion. Becky shares what attendees can expect... food vendors, raffles, and plenty of chances to win prizes- plus how this popular event continues to grow year after year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Mark Persons, Vietnam Veteran and Webmaster for the Brainerd VFW, and Eusebia “Chappy” Rios, Chaplain at the Brainerd VFW, to talk about Four Chaplains Day. They share the history and meaning behind the observance, the powerful story of unity and sacrifice it represents, and how the Brainerd VFW honors the legacy of the Four Chaplains locally.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Sheena Ziegler, Event Chair, Andrey Jay, Brainerd Jaycees President, and Matt Rhoda, Co-Chair, with a full contestant rundown for the 36th Annual Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza. They cover everything you need to know before you hit the ice, including slot limits and entry info, parking and shuttle details, tickets, bait and rule reminders, and key tips to help anglers avoid surprises on the big day.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Lori Scharenbroich, Athena Awards Advisory Board member, and Sarah Kinkeade, Athena Awards Committee Chair. They explain the mission and impact of the Athena Awards platform, preview an upcoming Business After Hours networking event, and share details on the 2026 Athena Awards celebration happening May 4th at Maddens.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Captain Adam Fulton and LT Karla Beierman from the Minnesota State Patrol with a 2025 year-end review, a look at recent snowplow crashes across the state, and practical tips drivers can use to avoid close calls on winter roads. They also preview safety planning for the Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza, share what to do if you're stranded in extreme cold, and break down the must-have items everyone should keep packed in their vehicle during winter travel.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Melissa Barrick, District Manager for the Crow Wing Soil & Water Conservation District, joins the podcast to share details on the 2026 Tree and Plant Sale and how you can take part. She explains the district's goal of helping plant 1,000,000 trees, and highlights what's available this year- including a wide variety of trees, shrubs, plants, and seed mixes. Whether you're looking to improve wildlife habitat, reduce erosion, enhance your shoreline, or simply add beauty to your property, this sale offers something for everyone.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Kim Strange, Foundation Coordinator and Food Service Manager, and Lanaya Percfield, Open Arms Coordinator and Peer Support Manager, join to discuss the vital services provided by Lighthouse Beginnings and Open Arms. They share insight into current needs, including general food items, day-to-day household supplies, volunteer support, and funding challenges resulting from the recent federal funding freeze. The conversation highlights how community involvement plays a critical role in supporting individuals and families served by these programs.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Heather Jones and Jess Wide, board members of the Crosslake Winterfest Committee, join us to preview the 24th Annual Crosslake Winterfest, happening February 5th–7th. They break down everything packed into this three-day winter celebration, including the popular Medallion Hunt, Soupfest, live music, and a full lineup of activities and events for the entire family.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Martha Smithson, Principal of Early Learning, and Jen Lindholm, Early Childhood Program Administrative Assistant, join to share what's coming up in Early Childhood Family Education. They discuss new ECFE classes beginning next week, along with special events and upcoming field trips families can look forward to. The conversation also covers important preschool information, including registration opening early next month and the child screening process that takes place prior to attending preschool, helping families feel prepared and confident as they take the next step in their child's early learning journey.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Jessica Gangl, Executive Director of the Brainerd Public Schools Foundation, and Amye Miller, Big Event Chair, join to talk about the Foundation's upcoming Big Event on February 21st at Grand View Lodge. They share details about the event, how funds raised directly benefit a wide variety of students, and discuss current opportunities for sponsors and donated auction items to support this important cause.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Lowell Johnson, a member of the Lakes Area Justice Table, and Rev. Candace Adams from Compassionate Way join the podcast to discuss the upcoming Cultivating Compassionate Communities training happening later this month. The conversation explores what the training will offer participants and why building compassionate communities begins with cultivating compassion within ourselves.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest is Tony Housey from Camp Ripley. Housey recaps a very busy 2025 at the Camp, highlights the impact those operations had on the region, and gives us an early look at what's ahead in 2026. We'll also talk about Winter Operations Training, what it means for scheduled visiting units, and how those activities shape everything from local traffic to the broader mission at Camp Ripley. It's a great behind-the-scenes update on one of Minnesota's most important training centers.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brainerd Public Utilities Director Paul Sandy and City Administrator Nick Broyles join to break down the city's upcoming galvanized water service line replacement project, including what homeowners need to know, how to check if their property is affected, and what the timeline looks like moving forward. We also cover a Public Works update, a Brainerd EDA update, and wrap up with details on a fun community event, the Community Open Skate at Memorial Park on February 7.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Alex Dominguez, Programs Manager and Mandy Flitsch, AdvocateSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest is CEO Shane RiffleSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Crow Wing County Administrator Debby Erickson and Crow Wing County Sheriff's Lt. Craig KatzenbergerSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Faith Hamson, Marketing Coordinator of Lakes Area United Way and Jana Shogren, Executive Director of Bridges of HopeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Director Andrea Anderson and actors Anne Freelove and Blake LubinusSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests were Executive Director Janet Hennis and Board Member Colleen AdrianSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Paul Primesberger, Dean of Enrollment Management & Student Success and Nathaniel Warnke, Enrollment RepresentativeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Board Members Dr. Nick Bernier and Karl SampSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest is Vicky Kinney, Executive DirectorSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Barb Mack & Loretta Campbell, both EEG Epilepsy Advocate Board Members about Epilepsy, what it is, who it affects and the support groups that are available to the community. They discussed the monthly meeting that was to be held this month, where Campbell would be speaking about Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). They also invited the public to a large Community Awareness Expose' coming in January that will feature local resources and professionals who will provide information and answer questions about epilepsy to those who are living with or providing support to those living with the disease.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shawn Hanson, Executive Director of The Outreach Program, joins the show to discuss how the organization provides meals to families locally and across Minnesota. She also highlights the ongoing need for volunteers, recaps key moments from 2025, and shares a preview of an exciting year ahead for The Outreach Program in 2026.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rena Bolt, Community Health Specialist with Crow Wing Energized, and Faith Hamson, Marketing Specialist with CWE, stop by to talk about upcoming community health initiatives... including the Movement Challenge, the ReThink Your Drink campaign, and diabetes prevention classes available in the area.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tedi Russell, Marketing & Community Engagement Manager at Bridges of Hope visits about their end of year fundraising push to get to $100,000. As well as an overall review of what Bridges assists the community with. Additionally, Russell previews a new event that Bridges of Hope is highlighting... Hope on the Slopes at Mount Ski Gull on February 12th, 2026.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aubrey Koop, Director of the Cuyuna Lakes Chamber, and Ali Beste, Marketing & Young Professionals Coordinator with the Brainerd Lakes Chamber, stop by to talk about the Local Gift List created by Lakes Proud. They share how the list highlights local businesses across the Brainerd Lakes Area and why shopping local matters- helping keep dollars circulating throughout our communities, supporting local jobs, and strengthening the region, especially during the holiday season.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.