Growing Destinations

This episode dives into the ever-evolving world of residential real estate. A market that impacts nearly everyone, whether you're buying, selling, or just trying to understand what's going on with home prices, interest rates, and inventory.Minnesota realtors Kimm and Jesse Pastrana are a husband-and-wife team and the founders of Good Move Realty. As successful real estate professionals and entrepreneurs with decades of experience, they have a deep understanding of what it takes to thrive in a shifting housing landscape.Kimm and Jesse discuss how they got their start in real estate, what's driven their success, what trends they're seeing in today's housing market and advice for new home buyers.

This episode explores the evolving landscape of local broadcasting with Stephanie Hedrick, Vice President and General Manager of KTTC-TV and Vice-Chair of the Minnesota Broadcasters Association, and Shannon Knoepke, Market President at Townsquare Media and a Board Member of the Association. Stephanie leads one of the region's most trusted TV newsrooms, and Shannon oversees a dynamic cluster of radio stations in southern Minnesota. Together, they offer a behind-the-scenes look at the evolving world of local media, the challenges and innovations shaping their industries, and how broadcasters continue to play a vital role in community identity, economic development, and trusted storytelling. 

The Med City Marathon in Rochester, Minnesota is one of the longest running marathons in the state. This race has become a signature event in the region, drawing runners, volunteers and spectators from across the Midwest and beyond. Evin Haukos, the Med City Marathon Race Director, has helped shaped the event's momentum and mission. He shares what inspired him to take on this role, what it takes to organize an event of this magnitude and what's ahead for the Med City Marathon in 2025 and beyond.

Today's guest on the Growing Destinations podcast brings a thoughtful, research-driven lens to the tourism landscape. Xinyi Qian is Director of the University of Minnesota Tourism Center, a statewide resource focused on supporting communities through tourism education, research, and strategic planning.Xinyi's work sits at the intersection of tourism, economic development, and community vitality. Under her leadership, the Tourism Center is helping destinations across Minnesota adapt to emerging trends, build sustainable strategies, and create meaningful visitor experiences.

Greenspring Media is the team behind Minnesota Monthly, Midwest Design, custom content for destinations and a robust lineup of consumer events across the Twin Cities. Tammy Galvin, Publisher of Greenspring Media, has helped lead Greenspring's transformation into a multi-platform, content and experience company, blending print, digital and live events to engage audiences in meaningful ways. Tammy discusses her journey, how Greenspring keeps its brands fresh and the growing role events play in connecting communities.

Sarah Richardson, of Rochester, Minnesota, never expected to transform corporate gifting. As a graphic designer, she was focused on helping clients build their brands. But when the pandemic hit, a weekend idea to create an e-commerce platform for locally sourced Easter baskets turned into Gift Rochester, raising $6,000 for local businesses in one week. When Mayo Clinic sought employee recognition gifts, the project exploded, growing 12,000% in its first year. Now known as Neighborly Gifts, the company operates in five states, partnering with 200 small businesses to create curated gift boxes for corporate clients.

Join the laughter-filled journey of Miss Shannan Paul, a multi-talented comedian who swapped legal briefs for punchlines, transforming from an aspiring lawyer into a beloved performer and community advocate. From drafting demand letters to discovering her true passion for comedy, Miss Shannan shares an inspiring story of reinvention and resilience. In this engaging conversation, she explores how humor fosters connection and sparks meaningful conversations.

Curious about the life of a dedicated naturalist and the fascinating world of Minnesota-native wildlife? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Jaide Ryks, a passionate naturalist from Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo in Southeast Minnesota. Discover how Jaide turned her childhood love of nature into a meaningful career filled with animal care, education, and conservation efforts. Jaide shares her unique journey, from growing up along the Zumbro River to the fulfilling role she plays at the zoo, filled with teaching and engaging with the public about wildlife's wonders.

Have you ever wondered how a simple need can ignite a thriving, community-driven business? Meet Rochester, Minnesota entrepreneur Becky Montpetit, the visionary behind Rochester Local, La Crosse Local, and Twin Cities Mom. In this conversation, Becky shares her journey—from launching the Rochester MN Moms Blog to filling a gap in family-friendly resources in Rochester. What began as a passion project grew into a network of local platforms dedicated to fostering connections and providing accessible community information. She opens up about the challenges, victories, and the driving force behind her mission to make community engagement easier for families and individuals.

The Nordic Shop in Rochester, Minnesota, has thrived for 50 years. Join us for an engaging conversation with Walter and Louise Hanson, the duo behind the Nordic Shop's success. Their journey began with a simple passion for Scandinavian design and blossomed into a community treasure. Discover how the retail landscape has evolved and how the Nordic Shop has stood the test of time.

What if the key to breaking through the relentless "sea of sameness" in advertising lies in the vibrant arts and culture of Minneapolis? Join us as we sit down with Rob Rankin, President and CEO of CCF Advertising, who brings over 35 years of industry experience to the table. Rob unravels how the creative energy of this city fuels innovative advertising strategies. We explore CCF's holistic approach to campaigns, focusing on emotional connections and how they drive behavior change amidst today's digital overload. Rob offers a unique perspective on balancing traditional and digital methods, ensuring that creativity remains at the forefront of impactful advertising.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Alison Zelms, City Administrator of Rochester, Minnesota. Discover how Rochester is transforming from a "big little city" to a "little big city," blending global ambitions with its beloved local charm. Learn how strategic partnerships and destination marketing are shaping Rochester's identity as a city where world-class medical innovation meets an exceptional quality of life. 

In this episode of the Growing Destinations podcast, we spotlight the legacy and enduring appeal of Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, the nation's largest professional dinner theatre complex. For over 50 years, Chanhassen has delighted audiences with memorable performances, including its current production of Irving Berlin's White Christmas. Joining us are three key leaders who drive its success: Michael Brindisi, Artistic Director and President; Tamara Kangas Erickson, Vice President and Resident Choreographer; and Kris Howland, Director of Public Relations. Our conversation dives into the craftsmanship and creativity that brings magic to the stage at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. 

Explore Minnesota's dynamic tourism landscape in this episode of the Growing Destinations podcast, featuring insights from Linda Jurek, executive director of Visit Cook County, Julie Wearn, CEO of Visit Roseville, and Joe Ward, president of Experience Rochester. These tourism leaders share how they navigate challenges such as unpredictable weather, the economy and shifting visitor trends while seizing new opportunities.

Join us on a flavorful journey across Minnesota's culinary landscape with the iconic Sue Zelickson, a luminary in the state's food scene for over fifty years. Discover how Sue's groundbreaking efforts, like founding Women Who Really Cook and the Charlie Awards, have reshaped the Twin Cities culinary scene. From her grandmother's cherished recipes to her son's baking enthusiasm, Sue's personal stories are as rich as her contributions. Her stories, such as introducing Julia Child to milking a cow, offer delightful insights into her lifelong love for food and media, including her James Beard award-winning WCCO radio show "Food for Thought."

Chris Schad is the founder and owner of Rochester, Minnesota-based The Bee Shed, where his passion for bees, science, and the environment come together to make a meaningful impact. Through his story, you'll learn how a hobby can grow into a legacy business, all while championing environmental stewardship and the vital role bees play in our ecosystem. 

What does it take to transform a city into a premier destination for one of sports' biggest events? Join us as we sit down with Brad Toll, President and CEO of Discover Green Bay, and Nick Meisner, Vice President of Digital Marketing and Communications for the organization. Brad and Nick pull back the curtain on the eight-year effort to bring the 2025 NFL Draft to Green Bay. From a crucial trip to London to the logistical hurdles of enhancing local infrastructure, their stories reveal the dedication and passion driving this monumental effort that is expected to drive significant economic impact for the city and state of Wisconsin.

In this episode of the Growing Destinations podcast, we sit down with Allison Kaplan, editor-in-chief of Twin Cities Business (TCB) and a leading voice in Minnesota's media landscape. Allison shares insights into her career, the evolution of Minnesota's business community, and the balance between traditional print and innovative digital content.  We explore how TCB is amplifying its coverage of entrepreneurship, innovation, and the startup scene in Minnesota. Twin Cities BusinessShop Girls - myTalk 107.1By All Means PodcastExperience Rochester, MN

John Sievers of Rochester, Minnesota is a talented trombonist and a key figure in Rochester's vibrant music scene. He's a front man for several bands and hosts monthly jazz jams. Recently honored with the prestigious Sandy Keith Downtown Impact Award, John has been recognized for his significant contributions to Rochester's cultural landscape. His story is one of creativity, community and connection. 

Ever wondered what it's really like to work behind the scenes in city communications or live entertainment? Join us for a revealing episode where three young professionals, Emma Mehl, Anna Soltau and Cade Roepke, take you through their dynamic internships in Rochester, Minnesota. Discover the ins and outs of drafting press releases, managing social media, engaging with the community, facilitating promotions and even writing speeches for the mayor. This episode is packed with insights into the growth, confidence, and hands-on experience that internships can provide.City of Rochester, MNExperience Rochester, MN

Rochester, Minnesota entrepreneur Nate Nordstrom has combined his adventurous spirit and love for biking to launch a new business venture. Nate owns New Spin Bicycle Shop, with two locations in Rochester. His passion for e-bikes and adaptive bikes is evident as he showcases how these innovations are transforming lives and enhancing family biking adventures.

Curious about the history behind one of Rochester, Minnesota's most iconic landmarks? Discover the Ear of Corn Water Tower, a towering tribute to the region's agricultural roots, standing proudly since 1931. Join us as we chat with Mat Miller, Director of Facilities and Building Operations for Olmsted County, who shares the fascinating backstory of this beloved structure. Learn why preserving this historic tower amid Graham Park's redevelopment was a community-driven choice, reflecting the County's dedication to honoring its heritage.

Can a single mural change the essence of a public space? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Greg Wimmer, the talented muralist from Rochester, Minnesota who has turned landscapes into canvases of vibrant art. Greg takes us through the creative and practical challenges of his large-scale projects. Discover how his major mural for KROC Radio in Rochester in 1999 set the stage for a series of transformative artworks across the state, each uniquely reflecting its surroundings. His latest project is a “Greetings from Rochester” mural.

Steve Grove, CEO & Publisher of the StarTribune, brings a fresh perspective on the future of local journalism, drawing from his unique background at Google and as Minnesota's DEED Commissioner. We delve into how his diverse career equips him to modernize a storied newspaper and discuss why expanding coverage beyond the Twin Cities is essential for relevance in today's evolving media landscape. We also explore the potential of AI to strengthen user experiences. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the survival and evolution of local journalism in a digital world. 

Created by the State of Minnesota, the Minnesota Zoo opened in 1978 with a mission to connect people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife. Cutting-edge exhibits provide exciting experiences with animals and their habitats, introducing guests to species from around the globe. Education programs engage audiences at the Zoo, throughout the region, and around world. Conservation programs protect endangered species and preserve critical ecosystems. Meet John Frawley, Director of the Minnesota Zoo and Jamie Flaws, Executive Director of the Minnesota Zoo Foundation.  They bring us inside the Zoo and share their insights, the success of the new Tree Top Trail and why Zoo's matter.

Meet Wendy Blackshaw, the driving force behind Minnesota Sports and Events as its President and CEO. Wendy has steered Minnesota towards a remarkable era, attracting an unprecedented variety of world-class events. Her leadership has brought renowned events like the NCAA Women's Final Four and the record-breaking 2023-2024 Big 10 Women's Basketball Tournament to Minnesota's doorstep. And there's no stopping there; upcoming highlights included the 2024 Olympic Gymnastics Trials and the 2026 IIHF World Juniors Hockey Championships. Wendy stands as a staunch advocate for women in sports leadership, embodying the spirit of empowerment and excellence. 

Food Trucks are not new concepts, but they are growing in popularity and variety. Two culinary professionals share their entrepreneurial journey in the food industry, which has evolved into Food Trucks. Joseph Phillips is owner and operator of Jersey Jo's, serving authentic cheese steak sandwiches in Rochester, MN and Chandu Valluri is a partner with Pine Island, MN based Infuzn Foods, delivering the fresh taste of Indian inspired cuisine to your doorstep. They have become collaborators and good friends and discuss the rewarding experience of adding Food Trucks to their businesses.Jersey Jo'sInfuzn FoodsExperience Rochester, MN

Pat Sexton is Executive Director of the Rochester Area Builder's Association in Rochester, Minnesota. The Association is focused solely on construction and advocates for the highest level of professionalism in the building industry. As Rochester braces for a decade of transformative growth, with Mayo Clinic's Bold. Forward. Unbound. initiative, Pat acknowledges the inevitability of obstacles along the way, including the need for more skilled workers. Yet, his optimism remains unwavering, rooted in the belief that patience and perseverance will pave the way for a brighter future. At the heart of Pat's mission lies a singular ambition: to foster the expansion of housing in Rochester.Rochester Area Builders AssociationBold. Forward. Unbound. Experience Rochester, MN

Fifteen years ago, amidst the challenges of a divorce, Jen Scheffler-Johnson ignited her passion for creativity by founding her jewelry business, Realia by Jen. Despite the disruption of a global pandemic, Jen's business is flourishing. With an eye for innovation, she has sculpted distinctive jewelry lines and captivating art pieces. Jen's unwavering fascination with the dynamic world of retail fuels her aspirations, which someday may include her own storefront. Realia by JenExperience Rochester, MN

Clay Fulton is the frontman for the Rochester, Minnesota band, Clay Fulton & The Lost Forty. After selling his family restaurant in 2020, Clay embarked on a musical journey amidst the challenges of a global pandemic. His band tours throughout the Midwest, and last year performed at the coveted SXSW Festival in Austin, Texas. Drawing inspiration from folk traditions and the timeless craft of songwriting, Clay is currently working on his eagerly-awaited third album.Clay Fulton & The Lost FortyExperience Rochester, MN

In college, Steve Lange aspired to become a sailboat designer, but his passion for writing and editing steered him onto a different course. For nearly 25 years, he has served as editor of Rochester Magazine, a monthly lifestyle publication known for its award-winning storytelling in Rochester, Minnesota. The magazine has longevity and is celebrating 25 years in print. Steve proudly guides a dedicated team, crafting compelling narratives that resonate with their audience. Rochester MagazineExperience Rochester, MN

Some recent soccer news in Rochester, Minnesota has generated excitement. Rochester Football Club's (FC) acquisition of Med City FC marks a pivotal moment, enhancing the regional soccer landscape and offering a clearer developmental pathway for players. This strategic move consolidates top-tier soccer within a unified club, promising heightened opportunities for talent growth. In a prior episode of the Growing Destinations podcast, the visionary founders of Rochester FC, Muharem Dedic (Mo) and Midhat Mujic (Mido), shared their inspiring journeys from Bosnia to Rochester and explored the strategic reasoning behind their partnership with the United Soccer League.Rochester FCExperience Rochester, MN

30 years ago, Randy Sampson, CEO and Chairman of Canterbury Park, made a gamble to bring back live horse racing in Shakopee, Minnesota.  It's paid off, and now, the racetrack, once surrounded by corn fields, is a mecca of development and entertainment, with a 19,000 seat Amphitheater on the horizon. In this episode of the Growing Destinations podcast, Randy looks back and is bullish about the future. One of his fondest memories over the past 30 years is the election night party of former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura, hosted at Canterbury Park. As you can imagine – it was a wild night.Canterbury ParkExperience Rochester

Today we delve into the transformative changes taking place in transportation, particularly in the rising popularity of biking that's becoming more accessible to a diverse range of individuals. Joining Growing Destinations today is Erik Noonan, from We Bike Rochester, a chapter affiliated with the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota. We Bike Rochester is at the forefront of advocating for pedestrians and cyclists. Offering an array of programs and outreach initiatives, the organization conducts classes on safe cycling, adult learn-to-ride programs, and engaging social rides. Stay tuned as the Rochester community eagerly anticipates participation in a signature ride event in 2024.We Bike RochesterExperience Rochester, MN

There's no denying that Taylor Swift's Eras tour has provided a substantial economic boost to cities where she has performed. According to research conducted by Question Pro, the tour is estimated to have generated nearly $5 billion in consumer spending in the United States alone. This past summer, Taylor Swift brought her Eras tour to Minneapolis, delivering two sold-out performances at US Bank Stadium. Our guests today have firsthand knowledge of the profound impact the Eras tour had on Minneapolis' economy. Courtney Ries, Senior Vice President of Destination Branding and Strategy for Meet Minneapolis, and Christy Loy, General Manager for the Canopy by Hilton hotel Minneapolis Mill District, shed light on the significant contribution made by the Eras tour to the economic landscape of Minneapolis.Meet MinneapolisCanopy by Hilton Hotel Minneapolis Mill DistrictExperience Rochester, MN

Ever wonder how a simple passion for coffee can brew into a successful entrepreneurial journey? Join us for a lively discussion with Will Forsman, co-owner of three Cafe Steam shops and a coffee roasting business in Rochester, Minnesota. From starting as a dishwasher to being honored with the Rochester Mayor's Medal of Honor, Will's story is a rich blend of dedication, community connection, and of course, a love for coffee.Cafe SteamColorway Coffee RoastersExperience Rochester

This podcast episode is a celebration of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and rural economic development, offering valuable insights into the agricultural sector. The dialogue provides a unique perspective on the sustainable food production process and highlights the potential for growth and development in rural economies. Podcast guests include Brett Olson, co-founder of Renewing the Countryside,  Dani Dircks, founder of Sailor Mercy and Ben McAvoy, owner of Blue Fruit Farm.FEAST MarketplaceRenewing the CountrysideSailor Mercy Elderberry SyrupBlue Fruit FarmExperience Rochester, MN

Two leaders in Minnesota's tourism scene are optimistic about the future of travel. Bonnie Carlson is President and CEO of the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau and Amie Burrill is Executive Director of Experience Burnsville. As destination marketers and collaborators, Amie and Bonnie are passionate about the work they do in promoting their cities and the state of Minnesota to potential visitors and business travelers. In their forward-looking approach, they are eagerly exploring cutting-edge technologies, including the ever-evolving world of artificial intelligence, which has ignited a profound discussion within the tourism industry.Bloomington Convention and Visitors BureauExperience Burnsville, MNExperience Rochester, MN

Italy is renowned worldwide for its rich culture, historical sites, and mouthwatering cuisine. But beyond the well-known cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, there exists a less explored but equally enchanting side of Italy. This is the focus of our current Growing Destinations podcast episode, where we delve into the lesser-known cultural regions of Italy with Anna Bonavita and Tom Gabriel, co-founders of the Minnesota non-profit organization, Esperienza.EsperienzaExperience Rochester, MN

We explore Valleyfair Amusement Park's transformation and growth that has spanned nearly fifty years. Long time employees Tip Harrison and Tom Suel offer unique insights into the behind-the-scenes hustle during the early years, the change in ownership, and the relentless ambition to keep adding new attractions including the game-changer Wild Thing roller coaster that continues to be a crowd favorite today. ValleyfairExperience Rochester, MN

Chuck Sibley is a relentless photojournalist whose illustrious 50-year career at KTTC-TV in Rochester, Minnesota, has seen him covering everything from the Super Bowl and World Series to poignant local sports, human interest and unforgettable weather stories. He's more than just a photographer; he's a storyteller, capturing the human spirit in every frame. KTTC-TVExperience Rochester, MN

Pickleball is a sport that's easy to learn, fun to play and offers both physical and social benefits. On this episode of Growing Destinations, pickleball enthusiasts, Suzanne Bretto, President of the Rochester Area Pickleball Association, Vino Raj, Co-founder of To Pickleball And Beyond and Blake Held, Co-host of the Inside Out Pickleball podcast detail their pickleball journey and how they are helping others in their communities engage with the sport.  Rochester Area Pickleball AssociationInside Out Pickleball PodcastTo Pickleball and BeyondRochester Pickleball Classic - October 14, 2023Experience Rochester, MN

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Jill Renslow, Chief Business Development and Marketing Officer for Mall of America. She offers an insider's perspective on the evolution, current state, and future plans of this iconic destination. We also explore its significant role in boosting tourism in Minnesota, the changing dynamics of retail and some delightful moments, like the surprise visit from Ed Sheeran. Mall of America So Much More, A Mall of America PodcastExperience Rochester, MN

Welcome to the latest episode of the Growing Destinations Podcast. Our guests, Jeff Steinborn and Denny Graham, from the Historic Henderson Auto Society give us a fascinating look into how their Classic Car Roll-in event went from a small gathering of 20 automobile aficionados to a weekly spectacle that attracts 275 cars in Henderson, Minnesota. Through their stories, we learn about the incredible impact this event has had on their small town, both in terms of community bonding and economic impact. Henderson Classic Car Roll InExperience Rochester, MN

For 45 years, Larry Moon Thompson has been a fixture as an on-air personality on radio stations throughout the country, including cities like Denver, Las Vegas, Houston and Minneapolis. Moon and his radio partner Staci Matthews were ratings gold for their entire run together on KS95 in Minneapolis. Now in retirement, Moon, a Marconi award winner and Minnesota Broadcast Hall of Famer, reflects on his career, his health and the current state of the industry. And through it all, Moon says trust makes for a successful team on the radio. Larry Moon Thompson - Minnesota Broadcast Hall of FameExperience Rochester, MN

We pull back the curtain on the dynamic world of commercial real estate in Southeast Minnesota with our guests, Nick Pompeian and Bucky Beeman. These Rochester natives share their journey from their early days, growing up in entrepreneurial families to forging a successful partnership in Realty Growth Inc., a business founded by Nick's father. You'll hear first-hand accounts of their innovative strategies, their embrace of tech, and how they've harnessed the power of the internet to revolutionize their approach to commercial real estate.Realty GrowthReal Growth PodcastExperience Rochester, MN

Rochester, Minnesota award-winning author Teresa Wilhelm Waldof brings to life the incredible story of her grandfather, Harley Wilhelm, the brilliant yet humble Iowa chemist who played a pivotal role in the Manhattan Project. Packed with personal anecdotes, Harley's story is as much about scientific breakthroughs, as it is about the power of the human spirit. Teresa also shares the fascinating journey of writing 'Wilhelm's Way', where she uncovered her own writing prowess along with her grandfather's impactful legacy.Teresa WaldofExperience Rochester, MN

Minnesota is home to more than 200 craft breweries. While the craft beer industry was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, it's starting to rebound. Bob Galligan is Director of Government and Industry Relations for the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild, which supports and promotes craft beer all across Minnesota. Bob credits the survival of the industry to its resiliency and spirit of collaboration. And he says to keep the craft beer industry viable, consumers need to keep showing up and supporting their local breweries. Minnesota Craft Brewers GuildExperience Rochester, MN

How are the downtowns of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Rochester adapting to the post-pandemic landscape? Join us as we engage in an insightful conversation with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, and Rochester Mayor Kim Norton, who share their visions for revitalizing their cities and addressing challenges in public safety, business development, and reimagining older buildings for a brighter future. This is a must-listen episode for those who care about the progress and development of Minnesota's cities, as these influential mayors discuss the importance of creating an economic and emotional connection to their downtown areas. The mayors also share their excitement for the prospect of Minnesota hosting Expo 2027.Minneapolis Mayor Jacob FreyRochester Mayor Kim NortonSt. Paul Mayor Melvin CarterExperience Rochester, MN

Avital Rabinowitz is in her second year as Director of Rochester Civic Music, a department of the City of Rochester, Minnesota. Its mission is to bring people together by creating fun and memorable live music experiences. Rochester Civic Music produces a variety of programming throughout the community including the ever popular Down by the Riverside free public concert series, now in its 31st season. Every Sunday starting in mid-July for five weeks, Mayo Park along the Zumbro River in downtown Rochester turns into an outdoor music venue featuring local, regional and national acts. Avital says events like Down by the Riverside are a fantastic way to build community. Rochester Civic MusicExperience Rochester, MN

Barry Zelickson is a leader in the attractions industry. His past accomplishments include the creation of a Halloween Theme Park and Family Entertainment Centers in Minnesota. Now, he has focused his attention on a new venture - Fun Across America, a YouTube channel highlighting entertainment centers around the country. It's a passion project for Barry to share stories and unique experiences, which comes at a needed time when people are seeking new ways to engage with each other. Fun Across AmericaExperience Rochester, MN