Podcasts about southern minnesota

Josh Vanderberg: Building a Business Leaders Can TrustIn Episode 147 of the Get Deep Podcast, we sit down with Josh Vanderberg—President and CEO of Vanderberg Clean and a second-generation leader in Southern Minnesota's janitorial industry.Josh's story begins in Mankato, learning the business from his grandparents, founders of Sharon's Cleaning Service in the 1970s. But early in this episode, he opens up about something far more personal—his mother's mental health struggles and how those challenges shaped his resilience, faith, and drive to build something stable and meaningful.Today, Vanderberg Clean is far more than a residential carpet cleaning company. Over 90% of its work serves commercial clients across Southern Minnesota. Under Josh's leadership, the company delivers more than a clean environment—it delivers confidence. Confidence that your facility will be handled professionally. Confidence that your space will remain secure. Confidence that the job will be done right, every time.We also dive into scaling, culture, and Josh's commitment to learning from leaders in every industry to continually improve his team and systems.This is a conversation about faith, growth, resilience, and building a company local leaders can trust.

Justin Montemurno: Systems, Strategy, and the Power Behind the PowerIn this high-voltage episode of the Get Deep Podcast, we sit down with Justin Montemurno—a Southern Minnesota native whose journey from wrench-turning teen to global infrastructure strategist is anything but ordinary. Justin shares his story of growing up in St. James, tinkering with engines, learning from uncles, and developing the work ethic that would power a career spanning technical sales, engineering, and global energy infrastructure.We dive into Justin's early experiences in manufacturing and process improvement at Kato Engineering, where he helped redesign workflows that massively increased output—and caught the attention of leadership. From there, he took the leap into technical sales, finding his sweet spot translating complex systems into strategies clients could actually understand.Now working with IPS, Justin operates at the intersection of business development, engineering, and hyperscale infrastructure, helping to design and deliver the massive power systems that fuel data centers, cloud computing, and the AI revolution. He breaks down exactly what a data center is, why power demand is spiking globally, and what it all means for the future of tech—and your electric bill.This episode is packed with insight on leadership, problem-solving, power systems, and the long game of building infrastructure that keeps the modern world running.

MnDOT has lifted no-travel advisories across southern Minnesota in the wake of blizzard conditions yesterday and overnight.And air traffic is running more smoothly today out of the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport as the weather improved. Metropolitan Airports Commission spokesperson Jeff Lea says ground crews have been clearing runways.Those stories and more in today's evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Southern Minnesota families face mounting challenges as the senior population surges twenty percent. Discover how user-friendly service menus, in-home assessments, and VA benefits are helping families find the right care fit for loved ones in Owatonna, Mankato, and beyond. Freedom Home Care, LLC City: Owatonna Address: 1065 S.W. 24th Avenue Website: https://www.freedomhomecarellc.com Phone: +1-507-387-4663

Tonight's guest, Dan Schmidt, was born and raised in Southern Minnesota. When Dan was growing up there, he had what could very easily be the most frightening Dogman encounter that's ever been shared on the show. You see, when he was 9-years-old, Dan and his cousin spent the night at his grandma and grandpa's farm, during winter break. The encounter happened the first night Dan and his cousin were there. When it happened, Dan was laying on the couch, in the living room and his cousin was laying on a make-shift bed his grandma had made, on the living room floor. Some time between 1 and 2 AM, Dan was awoken by a noise. Dan realized that it was the sound of the latch on the door to the back porch, of the house, being worked. Then, he heard that door being opened. Next, he heard slow, heavy footsteps walking across the back porch toward the back door of the house. When he heard those footsteps coming toward the back door, he looked at the back door. To his dismay, he then saw its doorknob turn and then the back door slowly open. What happened next was much more than most people would ever be able to handle. He watched a Werewolf walk into the house. MY NEW DOGMAN PODCAST!My new podcast is called "Dogman Tales.” It features fictional stories about Dogmen and people who have experiences with them. The podcast is only available for listening in podcast format. It is NOT available on YouTube. If you'd like to listen to it, you can find the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Dogman Tales is available for listening on every podcast app out there. If you don't have a go-to podcast app, here's a link to the Dogman Tales Podcast Page, on Spreaker...https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dogman-tales--6640134If you've had a Dogman encounter and need help or would like to be a guest on the show, please go to https://DogmanEncounters.com and submit a report. I'd love to hear from you.Premium memberships are now available! If you'd like to listen to the show without ads and have full access to premium content, please go to https://DogmanEncounters.com/Podcast to learn how to become a premium member.If you'd like to help support the show, by buying your own Dogman Encounters t-shirt, sweatshirt, tank top, or coffee mug, please visit the Dogman Encounters Show Store, by going to https://Dogman-Encounters.MyShopify.comIf you've had a Sasquatch sighting and would like to be a guest on My Bigfoot Sighting, please go to https://MyBigfootSighting.com and submit a report.I produce 4 other shows that are available on your favorite podcast app. If you haven't checked them out, here are links to all 4 channels on the Spreaker App...Dogman Tales...  https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dogman-tales--6640134My Bigfoot Sighting...  https://spreaker.page.link/xT7zh6zWsnCDaoVa7 Bigfoot Eyewitness Radio...  https://spreaker.page.link/WbtSccQm92TKBskT8 My Paranormal Experience https://www.spreaker.com/show/my-paranormal-experience Thanks for listening!

Paul Bunkowske: A New Chapter Shaped by Collecting and CommunityIn this heartfelt episode of the Get Deep Podcast, we sit down with Paul Bunkowske—the founder of Bunk's Card Corner, Mankato's go-to destination for sports cards, Pokémon, Disney memorabilia, and more. Paul shares his honest and powerful journey from struggling with alcoholism to finding purpose and community through sobriety. Recovery was not the end of the story—it became the starting point for purpose, community, and a new direction. That path eventually led him into the world of trading cards and to launching his own business.Paul opens up about his early years selling cars across the Midwest, his lifelong love of sports, and how that passion became the fuel behind Bunk's Card Corner. What started as a personal interest grew into a retail and wholesale operation that has become a hub for collectors, hobbyists, and fans of all ages.Now, Paul is preparing to open a brand-new storefront next to Crumbl Cookies off Adams Street in Mankato. The space will be Minnesota's largest dedicated trading card retail location and the central home for his growing wholesale business—exciting news for the local collecting community and for small business in Southern Minnesota.Tune in for a raw, honest, and uplifting conversation about recovery, the joy and obsession of collecting, and what it takes to turn passion into purpose—and a business that brings people together every day.

Colleen VanBlarcom: McDonald's Operator, Legacy Builder, and Culture ChampionIn this episode, we sit down with Colleen VanBlarcom—owner/operator of 11 McDonald's restaurants across Southern Minnesota. With a career spanning four decades and roots in one of McDonald's most storied family lineages, Colleen shares what it takes to lead a growing, values-driven organization under the Golden Arches.From scrubbing floors as a teen to managing multi-unit operations in Mankato, Owatonna, Waseca, Medford, and Eagan, Colleen's story is steeped in grit, growth, and generational wisdom. She opens up about her father's early days with McDonald's—back when there were just over 200 locations nationwide—and how his legacy shaped her path as both a business leader and community builder.Colleen reflects on small-town adjustments, lessons learned from corporate legends, and how a surprise visit from Ray Kroc changed the course of her family's journey. She shares insights on leadership, problem-solving, and what it takes to maintain a strong culture in one of the world's most recognizable brands.And in a Get Deep exclusive, Colleen reveals the future location of Mankato's newest McDonald's restaurant—news you'll hear here first.Stick around for a heartfelt conversation about service, resilience, and the human side of fast food—plus powerful stories about her team's impact through the Ronald McDonald House Charities.

In this powerful episode of the Build Blue Podcast, Jamie Jacobs, VP of Marketing and Sales, sits down with Della Schmidt, President and CEO of Greater Mankato Growth, to unpack key insights from the InterCity Leadership Visit to Wichita, an experience that offered a bold look at what intentional community growth truly looks like.Della shares why Wichita was chosen as a model community, what Greater Mankato leaders hoped to learn from the visit, and how alignment, collaboration, and shared vision drive long-term regional success. From downtown development and placemaking to talent attraction, workforce pipelines, and innovation ecosystems, this conversation connects the dots between people, place, and opportunity.Listeners will hear how Wichita leverages STEM education, Future Ready Centers, higher education partnerships, and corporate innovation hubs to shape the future of work—and how those lessons can inspire Southern Minnesota's next chapter. Della also reflects on the leadership takeaways from the trip, the role of Greater Mankato Growth in catalyzing progress, and how local businesses, educators, and residents can plug into the momentum.This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in economic development, workforce strategy, regional planning, and the future of Greater Mankato.

Cori Kennedy, originally from the Kasson-Mantorville area, discusses her small town Southern Minnesota origins, her music career, and her current run as a contestant on The Voice.

Good morning, afternoon, and evening, fellow real estate gladiators! Ever wondered if those sweet Airbnb profits are just a myth, or if you can actually turn a rental into a cash-flowing beast? Well, get ready, because Scott is joined by the Twin Cities' own rockstar investor, Mike Swenson! Mike's not just an amazing investor, he's a realtor-broker, a multifamily maven, and he's mastered the art of short-term rental (STR) arbitrage. We're diving deep into his journey from a foreclosed townhouse to building a robust real estate empire, including some juicy stories from the front lines of STR management. If you're looking to boost your cash flow, scale your portfolio, or just avoid cleaning up after a wild party, this episode is your golden ticket!In this episode, you'll learn:Arbitrage & Strategic Market Shift: Discover Mike's strategic pivot from Minneapolis/St. Paul's complex regulations and tenant-friendly policies to the growth potential of Southern Minnesota (hello, Mayo Clinic!). Learn how STR arbitrage became his "air game" – a brilliant way to gain experience and quick cash flow without the huge capital commitment of "slow-flip" apartment buildings.Nailing STR Profitability: The 2X Rule & Smart Due Diligence: Forget the 1% rule for traditional rentals; Mike shares how he aims for 2X the conventional rent for his short-term rentals. Get his insider tips on using tools like AirDNA for market analysis, spotting "notch above" properties (think updated kitchens & baths!), and why consistent year-round demand (near airports, attractions like the Mall of America, and business hubs) trumps seasonal "cabin country" for stable income.Landlord Hacks & Ironclad Insurance: Mike reveals his secret sauce for convincing landlords to embrace STR arbitrage – frame it as a "corporate rental" and highlight the benefits of consistent property oversight, proactive maintenance, and reliable rent. Plus, understand the crucial role of specialized landlord insurance and the necessity of your own STR policy to protect against those inevitable "hiccups" (like, say, a drug lab or a wild party!).The Unfiltered Truth of STR Operations: Cleaners, Guests & The Occasional Chaos: Prepare for the unfiltered truth about STR management! Mike breaks down the biggest operational challenges: finding and managing reliable cleaning crews (a major expense!), handling demanding guests (some expect the Four Seasons, bless their hearts!), and the constant battle against wear and tear (RIP that toilet paper holder!). Learn why banning one-night and same-day local bookings became his hard-earned golden rule to dodge party animals and less-than-desirable tenants.Scaling Smart: From Side Hustle to Empire & Your Next Steps: Mike reflects on his journey, explaining why arbitrage was his training ground and how he eyes future growth by owning STR properties for long-term appreciation or scaling into hospitality ventures. He offers crucial advice: truly understand your numbers (margins can shrink!), don't scale too fast, and always include lease clauses to protect yourself from changing STR regulations. Remember, it's not truly passive until you build the right leverage!So there you have it, folks! Mike Swenson's deep dive into the dynamic world of short-term rentals and multifamily investing proves that with strategy, resilience, and a good sense of humor, you can navigate the ups and downs of real estate. From dodging party planners to mastering landlord relations, his insights are pure gold. Ready to grab some of that cash flow for yourself and maybe even build an apartment empire? Connect with Mike and let his journey inspire your own. Go out, take some action, and let's turn those properties into cash cows (preferably without the weed smokers!). We'll see you at the top!Watch the Original VIDEO HERE!Connect with Mike Here!Book a Call With Scott HERE!Sign up for the next FREE One-Day Note Class HERE!Sign up for the WCN Membership HERE!

This week, MPR News reported Mayo Clinic Health Systems is ending labor and delivery services in Owatonna. But a few rural hospitals are bucking the trend of closing in maternity wards and have birthing centers that are thriving. Rochester reporter Molly Castle Work joined MPR News host Nina Moini to share more about this trend as part of a check in with regional reporters in Greater Minnesota.

Ashley and Nick Rehder, Founders of Ruby Ranch Barn: Join us for a conversation with Ashley and Nick Rehder, founders of ⁠Ruby Ranch Barn⁠, a nine-acre property just east of Pemberton, Minnesota, where education and community meet in fresh, hands-on ways.In this episode, Ashley and Nick share about their journey building Ruby Ranch from a dream into a space for connection and experiential learning, hosting workshops, events, and summer camps for all ages. They talk about Little Rubies, their preschool/kindergarten farm and nature program for ages 3-6, that uses nature as the daily classroom, complete with animal interaction, garden and pond time, and walks through their trials. They also open up about integrating their personal home on the farm into the operation, pouring their blood, sweat, and tears into a fast flip that expanded what they could offer to the community.As Ruby Ranch continues to grow (with 29K followers on Instagram!), Ashley and Nick reflect on the values that drive their work, the joy of seeing people connect through nature, and how they're helping redefine what learning looks like in Southern Minnesota.

Today we talk about some brews from southern Minnesota and current things we have coming up in the area Show is recorded at Grand Forks Best Source. For studio information, visit www.gfbestsource.com – Or message us at – Help support GFBS at this donation link - https://bit.ly/3vjvzgX - Access past BruBruthas Episodes - https://brubruthas.podbean.com/ https://brubruthaspodcast.com/ Check out our merchandise store!!! https://my-store-fd2618.creator-spring.com/     #gfbs #gfbestsource #beertalk #brewsandviews #craftbeerchat #hoppyhour #beerloversunite #sudssquad #tastethetap #beergeeksunite #brewingpassion #pintsandpods #brubruthas #certifiedloversofbeer #drinklikeakraken #beerisculture @brubruthas  

Fall is coming and to go along with the pumpkins, spiced lattes, and changing leaves, we also have corn Mazes. And a special one in Lodi is paying homage to the state we call home. Ben Jarboe talks to Angie Treinen an owner of the Treinen Farm Corn Maze. So why is Wisconsin the focus of this year's maze and what does it take to encapsulate the details? She says this maze is on 15 acres of land and over their 25 years of making corn mazes, they have learned what people like and don't like and continue to incorporate that.Cooler temps are on the way for the weekend. Stu Muck says it may be a little bit of a surprise at this stage of August to feel temps in the 60's, but that's what he expects for the weekend. The Ribbon is cut and now the Lafayette Hospital & Clinic in Darlington is ready to serve rural Wisconsin. The new state of the art hospital opened its doors officially on Thursday and Ben Jarboe spoke with the chairman of the county board, as well as the chair of the hospital committee. Jack Sauer says it's probably one of the proudest moments in his 24 years of public service. The project began in 2023, and features 84,000 square feet of space dedicated to quality health care for rural Wisconsin and the entire region. Sauer's proud not only of the financial collaboration that made the project a success, but the creativity they deployed to staff it. Sauer says they're offering up to $50,000 in stipends to offset the cost of education to entice and keep doctors at the hospital. July milk production was as big as expected. The 24 major dairy producing states brought a 3.5% increase in July milk to the market. Wisconsin's production was up less than 1%, but California, South Dakota, Texas and Michigan were just a few states with over 3% increase in milk. The Pro Farmer Crop tour concluded Thursday night in Rochester, Minnesota. While the full report will be released later today, many crop scouts on the tour said that despite the big yield projections, you can't lose sight of the disease risk. Emily Carolan is one of the scouts that measured through Western Iowa and Southern Minnesota. She says Sudden Death Syndrome(SDS) could take a toll on soybean yields. A little competition can keep you sharp! What if that competition is your spouse? A little good natured competition has inspired husband/wife team, Emily and Dan Sleik of Berlin, to be part of the 2025 Wisconsin Soybean Yield Contest. Pam Jahnke chats with the two about why they got started in the event and what they've learned along the way. Emily says their real goal is to replicate results and see how they benchmark against other farms in the state. The entry deadline to participate in this year's WI Soybean Yield Contest is August 31st.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Attorney General Keith Ellison has filed a lawsuit against the social media app TikTok, claiming it's harming children. West Nile Virus cases have been on the rise in the U.S., and neighboring states like North and South Dakota have seen a rise in the mosquito borne disease.And rivers are still rising across parts of southern Minnesota in the wake of heavy rain in recent days.Those stories and more in today's evening update. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

In the lead-up to the Defeat of Jesse James Days, each year we have the opportunity to meet with the Ambassador candidates. About the Program:The Defeat of Jesse James Days Ambassador Scholarship Program is designed to provide young people an opportunity to learn lifelong skills of public speaking, interviewing, volunteering, networking and learning a lot about Northfield's favorite celebration! The three ambassadors that are selected spend the entire year making over 100 appearances throughout Southern Minnesota and Western Wisconsin. Their “job” consists of 1) promoting and raising wareness about Northfield and DJJD by attending other festivals, coronations and parades, 2) promoting volunteerism at organizations such as Salvation Army, Feed My Starving Children, and Special Olympics as well as many local groups such as Laura Baker Services Assn, Three Links Care Center, Give Cancer The Boot, and Northfield Retirement Community, and 3) making valuable networking associations with other communities while developing as leaders that serve as positive role models. At the completion of their year, each will receive a $2,500 scholarship, and one will be selected to spend a weekend at St Paul Winter Carnival and then almost a week at Minneapolis Aquatennial, vying for a title which is also an educational scholarship opportunity with a deep commitment to community & volunteerism.

James Pieper is a first-generation farmer who's only four years into his operation—but you'd never guess it based on the way he's embraced both the challenges and the spotlight. Known on social media as @allaboutfarming, James takes his followers behind the scenes of day-to-day farm life, breaking down everything from planting to drainage upgrades in a relatable, easy-to-understand way.In this episode, James shares how he went from city kid to Southern Minnesota farmer, inspired by hands-on trials and ag studies at North Dakota State University. We dive into the realities of 2024's tough weather, what it took to upgrade tile on 108 acres, and the big decision to invest in new fertilizer storage and tillage equipment. Plus, James gives us a look into his personal life, celebrating the recent birth of his daughter Hazel Rose and what it's like to farm alongside his wife—who now drives tractor!We also talk about the importance of storytelling in agriculture, what it's like working with brands like Pioneer, and how sharing the simple "why" behind each farming decision can build trust with consumers and future farmers. Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don't forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/

Next up in the series, we're chatting with Peggy Paul, Entrepreneurship Director of Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF). Thanks for listening! If you find value in this podcast, please consider donating and lending support to Collider's efforts to share the stories of Rochester entrepreneurs and inspire others on their journey.Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation- SMIFDonate

Mike McGowan: third-generation owner of ⁠⁠McGowan Water Conditioning and longtime volunteer firefighter. Join us for a conversation with a hometown business owner who's been keeping Southern Minnesota's water clean for over 70 years. Mike breaks down his sink-or-swim journey stepping into the family business—navigating generational pressure while carving out a path of his own. From water systems to fire calls, he shares about leadership, responsibility, and serving his community. Stay tuned for minute 1:42:31, where Mike reflects on how firefighting has evolved and how rural departments are finding new ways to work together.

Mike McGowan: third-generation owner of ⁠McGowan Water Conditioning ⁠and longtime volunteer firefighter. Join us for a conversation with a hometown business owner who's been keeping Southern Minnesota's water clean for over 70 years. Mike breaks down his sink-or-swim journey stepping into the family business—navigating generational pressure while carving out a path of his own. From water systems to fire calls, he shares about leadership, responsibility, and serving his community. Stay tuned for minute 1:42:31, where Mike reflects on how volunteer firefighting has evolved and how rural departments are finding new ways to work together.

Welcome back to another episode of Diving in Deep with your host, Sara Evans! In this exciting episode, Sara sits down with her incredible background singer, producer, and songwriter, Jazz Davis.Join them as they dive into the behind-the-scenes world of the music industry, sharing stories from the road, the challenges of touring, and the unique bond they've formed over the years. Jazz opens up about her journey from singing in church to becoming a vital part of Sara's touring family, and they discuss the creative process behind Jazz's own music, including her collaboration with Olivia Evans on a project inspired by the popular book series, A Court of Thorns and Roses.Get ready for some fun anecdotes, including the hilarious moments that happen on stage and the secrets of what it's really like to be on tour. Plus, they answer fan questions and spill some tea about their experiences together!Don't forget to like, subscribe, and download this episode! Check out Jazz's music on her social media platforms and follow along on their journey.Listen to Unbroke: (https://ffm.to/seunbroke).About Jazz Davis:Jazz Davis is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer, and mixer. Originally from Southern Minnesota, she began writing songs at a young age and made the move to Nashville at 18 to pursue her career in music.Since then, Jazz has fine-tuned her craft as a vocalist, musician and producer - both as a touring background vocalist for Sara Evans and working alongside producer/songwriter Eric Arjes. Her talent and development into a 'finisher' has become evident through her last five releases, which she produced and mixed entirely on her own.LET'S BE SOCIAL:Follow Jazz Davis:Instagram - (@jazzdavisofficial)Facebook - (@Jazz Davis)Follow Diving in Deep Podcast:Instagram –(@divingindeeppod)TikTok – (@divingindeeppod)X – (@divingindeeppod)Facebook – (@divingindeeppod)Follow Sara Evans:Instagram – (@saraevansmusic)TikTok – (@saraevansmusic)Twitter – (@saraevansmusic)Facebook – (@saraevansmusic)Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (@TheCastCollective)Twitter – (@TheCastCollective)Directed by: Erin DuganEdited By: Sean Dugan, Corey Williams, & Michaela Dolphhttps://www.thecastcollective.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shane Bowyer: professor of management at MSU Mankato and local community pillar! Our guest this week has an incredible range of expertise in the business sector; overseeing the Northwoods League Baseball Franchise as a general manager, owner of the Sports Institute training facility, and so much more right here in our community. Join us as Shane takes us through his most memorable experiences, and the core mission of service that's kept him active in Southern Minnesota. Stay tuned for minute 1:44:03, where Shane shares some of his favorite experiences working with the Minnesota Vikings

Tim Huebsch: Solutions Manager of Global Business Solutions at General Mills! Join us for an immersive conversation with a corporate industry leader! From our guest's roots in rural Southern Minnesota, his early interest in tech, and his quick career ascension, our guest's engaging manner of storytelling kept us thoroughly riveted. Tim also has impressive entrepreneurial record; his attitude of humility and gratitude has truly enriched our community through board service covering scholarship outreach, sponsorship of the arts, and more. Stay tuned for minute 23:39, where Tim shares his own perspective into the “transformational power of art”

Della Schmidt: President and Chief Executive Officer for Greater Mankato Growth! Join us for an in-depth conversation with a community champion who has built a legacy supporting regional growth. With an impressive record in Southern Minnesota, Della has such a wealth of knowledge for navigating difficult interpersonal dynamics, leading by example, and kickstarting local economies. Her humor and wit during this conversation reminded us just how lucky Mankato is to have her at the helm of GMG. Thank you, Della, for sharing your story with us!

This weekend is THEE weekend for garage sale fanatics. Drive along the beautiful Mississippi River and find deals along the way! Find out more from Michelle Larson the President of the Red Wing Chamber of Commerce, and Kate Carlson the Executive Director of Visit Winona.

March 8, 2025 - Al Batt is a treasure to Southern Minnesota and beyond. Join him as he entertains with his charm and wit on KMSU.

Joe Holtmeier: owner of Holtmeier Construction, Dirt Merchant Inc, and Pentagon Materials! Join us for a winning conversation with a Southern Minnesota community pillar! This multi-faceted entrepreneur takes us through the ins and outs of a legacy in construction. From unexpected collaborations to the responsibilities of a good leader, Joe takes us through his story spanning multiple continents (and industries!) Stay tuned for minute 1:18:30, where our guest shares why the mission of staying local is so essential for his employees

Nick is joined via phone in by returning guest Masen this week. The guys catch up on how the fall hunting seasons and ice season went.

All Minnesota GOP lawmakers in Congress joined their fellow Republicans in voting for a budget framework that includes $2 trillion in spending cuts. While it doesn't specify the programs, Republicans have targeted Medicaid and food aid programs.Tribal leaders are asking members of Congress to address funding concerns and uphold federal government's treaty obligations to tribes. Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Secretary-Treasurer Leonard Fineday testified to a House Appropriations subcommittee Tuesday afternoon.A new report released Wednesday by the Minnesota Chamber Foundation found that nearly 60 percent of the state's total labor force and employment growth came from foreign-born workers from 2019 to 2023.Those stories and more in today's morning update. Hosted by Gracie Stockton.

Southern Minnesota came under a blizzard warning Wednesday, but the snow missed the metro and the rest of the state. MPR chief meteorologist Paul Huttner joined MPR News host Nina Moini with details on the storm and the forecast ahead.

All Minnesota GOP lawmakers in Congress joined their fellow Republicans in voting for a budget framework that includes $2 trillion in spending cuts. While it doesn't specify the programs, Republicans have targeted Medicaid and food aid programs.Tribal leaders are asking members of Congress to address funding concerns and uphold federal government's treaty obligations to tribes. Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Secretary-Treasurer Leonard Fineday testified to a House Appropriations subcommittee Tuesday afternoon.A new report released Wednesday by the Minnesota Chamber Foundation found that nearly 60 percent of the state's total labor force and employment growth came from foreign-born workers from 2019 to 2023.Those stories and more in today's morning update. Hosted by Gracie Stockton.

You didn't think we'd get through another Minnesota March without a doozy of a snowstorm, did you? Minnesotans across the state woke up Wednesday to several inches of cement-like snow on the ground. Minneapolis, St. Paul and the surrounding Twin Cities region declared snow emergencies and southern Minnesota saw blizzard conditions.Gov. Tim Walz Wednesday morning authorized the Minnesota National Guard to support emergency winter storm operations and help rescue stranded drivers in Freeborn County. By noon, blowing snow was still causing problems on the roads in southern Minnesota. Several highways in the area were closed, including Interstate 90, and no travel was advised for most state highways in multiple southern Minnesota counties.MPR News host Nina Moini talked with MPR News chief meteorologist Paul Huttner for a closer look at the storm and what's next. And Bryan Lillie, maintenance superintendent for MnDOT in south-central Minnesota, shares the latest on road conditions in his region.

A messy spring storm is headed our way. Southern Minnesota is under a blizzard warning for Tuesday evening and the Twin Cities is under a winter storm warning. What can we expect out of this system? MPR meteorologist Sven Sundgaard joined MPR News host Nina Moini with the latest on winter storm warnings, advisories and weather whiplash.

Bishop Robert Barron of the Winona-Rochester Diocese is undoubtedly the most listened to Catholic leader residing in the United States today. His podcast and YouTube videos, which creates from his studio in Rochester, reaches at least 1.8 million YouTube subscribers. And his unconventional way of spreading information about his faith has a heavy hand in the shifting tide of American Catholicism.History professor Molly Worthen spent time with Bishop Robert Barron and wrote about it in an article for The Atlantic Magazine. She joined Minnesota Now to talk about the Bishop's rise.

October 29, 2024 Birding with Batt features Southern Minnesota's preeminent bird man, Al Batt. Enjoy his wit and wisdom.

From the intimate power of live performances to unique community partnerships, discover how chamber music nourishes both the soul and the community. I share my incredible experience with ProMusica Minnesota, a world-class chamber music ensemble in Southern Minnesota. Hear tips on attending these transformative concerts and how joining a music organization's board can make a meaningful difference. Explore how music connects, inspires, and gives back in more ways than one!   Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/micro19 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/musicenhances Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096

Taking an ambulance to a hospital looked a lot different 70 or 80 years ago. Its job was to get you to the hospital quickly, not as much about medical treatment along the way.A pioneering ambulance service in Southern Minnesota helped improve survival rates and professionalize the job to what it is today: a hospital on wheels.A new exhibit at the History Center of Olmsted County puts the spotlight on Gold Cross Ambulance and its advances, and a panel discussion Thursday night aims to find solutions for the challenges that remain in rural emergency medical services.Wayne Gannaway is the history center's executive director. He spoke with MPR News host Cathy Wurzer about the exhibit.

Southern Minnesota is under an excessive heat warning until this evening when the hot and humid air could spark severe storms. We have the details on the forecast and find out what the Minnesota State Fair is doing to keep animals safe from this heat and humidity.On top of the heat wave, we're seeing a summer wave in COVID cases, and the latest round of updated vaccines are on their way. And if it seems like the northern lights been dancing across Minnesota skies more frequently than usual — well, they have, and we find out why. Plus, we meet a Minnesota baker competing for a blue ribbon — not at the State Fair — on Netflix.The Minnesota Music Minute was “Summer” by Stolyette.The Song of the Day was “Two Wheeler, Four Wheeler” by Trip Shakespeare.

Pete Matejcek: owner and president of Schmidt Siding and Window! Meeting the needs of the client in their own home is a responsibility that Pete accepts as a vocational calling. With a deep-rooted passion for exceeding the client's needs, our guest has established himself as a key figure in the Southern Minnesota home improvement industry. Join us as we dive deep into Pete's earliest memories as a Mankato native, how his start as a siding installer informed his transition into sales, and his intense dedication to making music. Stay tuned for minute 1:14:30, where Peter shares the secret of his success at Schmidts

Welcome to this week's episode of Brews & Cruise, where we have royalty stopping by the Speakeasy Studio! Join us as we sit down with Miss Southern Minnesota, Morgan Mohler. Morgan shares her journey into the world of pageants, her impressive list of past titles, and the rigorous training that went into her run for Miss Minnesota. Discover the organizations she passionately supports and get an exclusive look at her future aspirations in the pageant world. Tune in this week for an inspiring and insightful conversation with Morgan Mohler!Drink: Coca-Cola Slushies by McDonald's Website: www.brewsandcruisepodcast.com

Former Congressman Tim Penny, now the President of the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, joins Andy to talk about the grants and other programs offered by the foundation to bolster smaller communities throughout the region.

After heavy rains across Southern Minnesota last night and this morning, the National Water Prediction Service expects the Cannon River to crest at 901.5 feet.   That would match the record level the river reached in September of 2010.  At 10:30 this morning, the river was at 896.3 feet, about seven-tenths of an inch below minor […]

Due to the heavy rains in Southern Minnesota over the last few days, and with rain in the forecast every day for the rest of the week, Northfield and the areas of Rice and Dakota Counties surrounding the Cannon River are once again under a flood warning.    The national weather service has issued a flood […]

Hour 1: Chris Egert from Channel 5 is in for Jason. He talks with listeners about whether they want reporters out in the field in unhealthy conditions. Then he talks with Elizabeth Greenawalt Executive Director of the Lake City Chamber of Commerce about why folks should look south for summer vacations.

Rusty Halvorson talked with Southern Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative's Ag Strategy Manager Cody Bakker about planting, weed control and the slicing campaign of the '23 crop for the Renville, Minnesota, cooperative.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did you get your tan on Tuesday? It was warm and sunny enough in much of the state that we spotted a lot of people out in short sleeves. It was the last day of sun this week before we were supposed to get some much needed rain. But by Wednesday, it looks like that may not happen. MPR Chief Meteorologist Paul Huttner joins MPR News host Cathy Wurzer to explain.

My guests tonight are John and April from the Midnight Squatchers. They are a Bigfoot Research Group based out of Southern Minnesota. John and April have had some really close encounters with these hairy bipeds and they are here to tell us all about it. Get Our FREE NewsletterGet Brian's Book Sasquatch Unleashed The Truth Behind The LegendLeave Us A VoicemailVisit Our WebsiteSupport Our SponsorsVisit Hangar 1 PublishingFactor Meals Use Code ODYSSEY50 At CheckoutBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sasquatch-odyssey--4839697/support.

The Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota is in the early stages of a 150,000 square-foot expansion, which includes a natural playground, one of the first of its kind in Minnesota. Once finished, the museum will have nearly two acres of outdoor space for kids to get their hands dirty — and their minds busy. The children's museum is partnering with internationally acclaimed designer of nature-based play areas, Adam Bienenstock, to design and build the space. The CEO of the Children's Museum, Louise Dickmeyer, joins us to talk about the new playground.

Albert Lea native Jacob Schlichter spent the beginning of his new year bundled up along I-35, photographing swans. The 27-year-old photographer and business owner was awarded the southeastern Minnesota Arts Council grant in November of last year and used the funds to create a public photography exhibit showcasing southern Minnesota wildlife. Schlichter joined MPR News host Cathy Wurzer today to talk about his creative process and the challenge of photographing wildlife in such a warm and dry winter.

Winter weather advisories are in effect today for southern Minnesota, including a blizzard warning for the southwest corner of the state. Dangerously cold wind chills will follow the snow. And the St. Paul Fire Department believes a devastating fire last week likely was caused by an unattended candle. A community vigil to support the family is planned for tomorrow.This is an MPR News morning update, hosted by Phil Picardi. Music by Gary Meister.