Best Green Bay Narrative Podcasts (2024)

1
Minnesota tourism leaders discuss the state of the visitor economy – from challenges to opportunities 24:43

7d ago24:43

24:43

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,…

1
Sue Zelickson’s Culinary Adventures: Iconic Moments and Personal Stories 17:08

22d ago17:08

17:08

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 t…

1
Bee Business: Chris Schad on Conservation, Beekeeping, and Entrepreneurship 20:23

1M ago20:23

20:23

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 ecosyste…

1
Green Bay's Journey to Hosting the NFL Draft 21:09

2M ago21:09

21:09

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 2…

1
Shaping Minnesota’s Business Narrative: With Twin Cities Business Editor-in-Chief Allison Kaplan 20:09

2M ago20:09

20:09

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…

1
The Trombone Trailblazer 18:46

3M ago18:46

18:46

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 …

1
The Intern Experience 23:06

3M ago23:06

23:06

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…

1
Pedal Power: Nate Nordstrom’s Journey with New Spin Bicycle Shop 21:31

4M ago21:31

21:31

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 ad…

1
Exploring Rochester's Iconic Ear of Corn Water Tower 18:11

4M ago18:11

18:11

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…

1
Transforming Public Spaces Through Art with Muralist Greg Wimmer 18:10

5M ago18:10

18:10

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 Rad…

1
Reimagining Local News in the Digital Era with StarTribune CEO & Publisher Steve Grove 22:26

5M ago22:26

22:26

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 …

1
Inside the Minnesota Zoo with John Frawley and Jamie Flaws 25:21

6M ago25:21

25:21

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…

1
Minnesota's Rise as a Sports and Events Powerhouse with Wendy Blackshaw 21:39

7M ago21:39

21:39

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 …

1
Food Truck Success with Jersey Jo’s and Infuzn Foods 19:51

7M ago19:51

19:51

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 wi…

1
Building the Future: Navigating Growth in Rochester, Minnesota 19:22

8M ago19:22

19:22

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…

1
Realia by Jen: Crafting Success with Jen Scheffler-Johnson 15:56

8M ago15:56

15:56

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 unwaveri…

1
The Musical Journey of Clay Fulton & The Lost Forty 16:32

9M ago16:32

16:32

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 fro…

1
Award-winning storytelling with Rochester Magazine’s Steve Lange 23:14

9M ago23:14

23:14

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 celebratin…

1
Rochester, Minnesota’s Soccer Evolution 23:05

9M ago23:05

23:05

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 opp…

1
Canterbury Park: Randy Sampson’s Bet on Horse Racing and Entertainment 25:39

10M ago25:39

25:39

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 podcas…

1
Wheels of Change with We Bike Rochester’s Erik Noonan 23:49

10M ago23:49

23:49

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…

1
Taylor Swift's Eras Tour and its Economic Impact on Minneapolis 22:15

11M ago22:15

22:15

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,…

1
A Coffee Journey with Will Forsman 23:38

11M ago23:38

23:38

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…

1
Feast & Flourish: Stories of Food Entrepreneurs in the Heartland 32:36

12M ago32:36

32:36

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 B…

1
Exploring the Intersection of Tourism, Technology, and Collaboration 29:52

1y ago29:52

29:52

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 thei…

1
Esperienza: Breathing Life into Italy’s Undiscovered Regions 26:41

1y ago26:41

26:41

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 regio…

1
Building Valleyfair Amusement Park 25:28

1y ago25:28

25:28

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 …

1
A Photojournalist's Tale: Chuck Sibley's 50-Year Career 16:12

1y ago16:12

16:12

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 ever…

1
Pickleball Impact: A unifying sport and social networking 31:44

1y ago31:44

31:44

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 d…

1
The Power of Retail, Entertainment and Tourism: A Conversation with Jill Renslow of Mall of America 24:36

1y ago24:36

24:36

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…

1
A Journey of Community Spirit and Classic Cars in Henderson, Minnesota 18:32

1+ y ago18:32

18:32

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. Th…

1
Behind the Mic with Radio Icon Larry Moon Thompson 29:27

1+ y ago29:27

29:27

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 an…

1
Disrupting Commercial Real Estate: A Journey Through Innovation 31:32

1+ y ago31:32

31:32

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'…

1
Uncovering Legacy: The Story of Harley Wilhelm and the Manhattan Project with Author Teresa Wilhelm Waldof 23:27

1+ y ago23:27

23:27

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 hu…

1
Exploring Minnesota's Craft Beer Industry 22:36

1+ y ago22:36

22:36

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 …

1
Revitalizing Minnesota’s Downtowns with Mayors Frey, Carter and Norton 40:40

1+ y ago40:40

40:40

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, b…

1
Rochester Civic Music’s Community Impact 16:18

1+ y ago16:18

16:18

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 Riversid…

1
Fun Across America with Barry Zelickson 19:07

1+ y ago19:07

19:07

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 B…

1
A Visit to the National Eagle Center 23:13

1+ y ago23:13

23:13

The National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Minnesota is the only facility in the country that has been designated by Congress as a National Eagle Center. Meg Gammage-Tucker, the National Eagle Center's CEO, says the center's recent renovation and expansion provides greater opportunity for storytelling and community outreach about the bald eagle, which i…

1
Building Community through Music 25:21

1+ y ago25:21

25:21

In Rochester, Minnesota, Nick Novotny is a force in the music scene. He grew up playing different instruments and was influenced by live music and festivals. Today, he's the drummer in the Clay Fulton and the Lost Forty band, he's a partner in a music promotion business called My Town My Music, and he's the founder of the Rochester Thaw Music Festi…

1
Meet LeeAnn Zubay and her passion project Food Union 19:44

1+ y ago19:44

19:44

LeeAnn Zubay is a lifelong foodie. Since 1978, she and her husband helped shape the restaurant scene in Rochester, Minnesota. She's taken her passion for food beyond restaurants, including a new venture called Food Union, an online gift box subscription service, which has evolved into a physical storefront in the heart of downtown Rochester. LeeAnn…

1
The Business of Tourism with Lauren Bennett McGinty 20:31

1+ y ago20:31

20:31

Lauren Bennett McGinty is one of Minnesota's biggest cheerleaders. It's no surprise, since she heads up Explore Minnesota, the state's official tourism booster. Tourism is big business for Minnesota, with direct impact of more than $13 billion, and leisure and hospitality is the 4th largest industry for employment in the state. With increased compe…

1
Meet Sammi Loo and Her Passion for Food 17:02

1+ y ago17:02

17:02

Sammi Loo grew up in the restaurant business in Malaysia. When she moved to Rochester, Minnesota in 2004, it didn't take long to turn her passion for food into business opportunities. She currently owns and operates a sushi restaurant and a European cafe in Rochester. Sammi says navigating the regulatory process can be challenging, but it's not a d…

1
Carroll's Corn: A 30-Year Success Story 24:41

2y ago24:41

24:41

When he was 15 years old, Seamus Kolb got his first part-time job at Carroll's Corn, a popular gourmet popcorn shop in downtown Rochester, MN. Sixteen years later, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, he purchased the shop, which just celebrated its 30th anniversary. Seamus shares more about the growth of Carroll's Corn, the changing dynamic…

1
The Intersection of Beer and Music 20:44

2y ago20:44

20:44

In Rochester, Minnesota, the intersection of beer and music can be found at Thesis Beer Project. Adam Fredericksen and his wife opened the microbrewery in 2019. While 2022 proved to be a good year for Thesis, the pandemic was a big challenge for Rochester's newest taproom, but they learned a lot and pivoted to a new business model. From the beginni…

1
An Innovative Approach to Community Engagement 27:27

2y ago27:27

27:27

Recognizing a need for broader community engagement on public projects, an innovative approach has been created in Rochester, Minnesota. It's called Community Co-Design -- a process that encourages, compensates and prioritizes the inclusion of diverse populations throughout the design and development process. Chao Mwatela, Diversity, Equity and Inc…

1
Convention Center Leaders See Positive Growth 28:05

2y ago28:05

28:05

Leaders from two of Minnesota's largest convention and event centers are seeing positive growth at their facilities. Joe Ward is president of Experience Rochester and Mayo Civic Center. Dan Hartman is Executive Director of the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center, also known as the DECC. They share results from 2022 and a look into the future. Wh…

1
A Conversation with Kat Perkins 19:08

2y ago19:08

19:08

You know her from The Voice. Kat Perkins was a finalist on Season 6 of the popular music show. The Voice was a second chance for Kat after vocal surgery, and she rocked it. Kat keeps a busy schedule including a recent tour with Kid Rock. She also mentors young, aspiring musicians through her Rising Star Foundation and she continues her annual tradi…

1
The Important Role of Arts in Community 24:52

2y ago24:52

24:52

Art plays an important role in any community. Pam Hugdahl is Executive Director of the Rochester Art Center and Misha Johnson is the Managing Director of the Rochester Civic Theatre. Their long-tenured organizations have emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic with renewed optimism. As they look to grow their organizations, they acknowledge that communi…

1
Insights on Aviation with John Reed, Executive Director of the Rochester International Airport 18:50

2y ago18:50

18:50

John Reed has spent thirty years working in the aviation industry. Since 2015, he has served as executive director of the Rochester, Minnesota International Airport. He's inspired by Mayo Clinic's unique relationship with the airport, which has a long history in Rochester, thanks to the Mayo brothers. The Rochester International Airport serves a re…

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