Welcome to 'Spotlight,' the podcast that shines a light on the incredible local businesses of the Twin Cities! In each bite-sized 15-minute episode, we dive deep into the authentic stories of the entrepreneurs, innovators, and dreamers who make our community thrive. From the bustling streets of Minneapolis to the vibrant neighborhoods of St. Paul, we bring you the unfiltered journeys, challenges, and triumphs of the people behind the businesses you love. Get ready to be inspired, entertained ...
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"There I was..." The best beginning to every aviation story. These stories occur "off-airport"...
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Farming is a way of life, and is as much about the people as it is the land, crops and livestock. In this Agri Culture podcast series presented by Mary-Jane Lawrie and produced by Kerry Hammond for The Farm Advisory Service, we will uncover compelling and intriguing stories of a range of inspirational people from within the farming community. Join us in conversation to find out what drives them and their businesses, where they get their inspiration from, and what they love about the culture ...
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Cayla McLeod explores Idaho and re-invents Plane & Pilot
1:21:01
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1:21:01This episode is with Cayla McLeod, the editor-in-chief of Plane & Pilot magazine. We talk about her aviation start with what is now called the Ron Alexander Youth Aviation Program, where kids earn flight hours working on vintage aircraft. We also explore her travels in Idaho and also how she's rebranding a legacy aviation publication. This is a rea…
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Al Clayton, The RAF, and an airstrip at CHILDS GLACIER
1:01:38
1:01:38
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1:01:38This week I talk to Al Clayton, the Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) State Liaison for the State of Alaska, who spearheaded the efforts to create the airstrip at Childs Glacier. This is an amazing story of how the RAF coordinates efforts from multiple state and federal agencies to create a one-of-a-kind experience for backcountry pilots. His …
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Voices of National STOL, Ryan Dembroski and Cam Walton
1:27:14
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1:27:14In this crazy episode I talk to the voices of the National STOL series, Ryan and Cam. They bring their announcer energy to the podcast world and talk about the events, their favorite aircraft (J-3 or Champ?) and how they got into the announcer gig for the biggest backcountry event series in the country. I know you'll love hearing about their backgr…
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You are listening to Agri Culture, a podcast that aims to explore the stories of the people that make up our agricultural industry and culture of farming, in Scotland and beyond. On today’s episode Mary-Jane Lawrie is joined by Anna Wylie and Jack Munro. Anna and Jack met when they both attended the Tesco Future Farmer programme for young farmers r…
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Phillip Sneed, COMPLETE GUIDE to Fly Oz and the Arkansas Backcountry
1:08:57
1:08:57
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1:08:57This episode is with the Director of Fly Oz, Philip Sneed. We talk everything that makes up the Fly Oz community from airstrips, social gatherings, and airplane services. Before you head to Arkansas you'll want to listen to this discussion about all the strips the area has to offer and how to make the most of your time in the Natural State. Visit B…
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Be Inspired, Live Happy, Pass It On | Cindy Daniels’ Story of The Inspire Company
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13:23What if the one thing you didn’t ask for turned out to be your life’s greatest calling? For Cindy Daniels, founder of The Inspire Company, inspiration wasn’t just a nice idea — it was a word that kept showing up everywhere she turned. From billboards to visions to conversations with friends, “Inspire” refused to leave her alone. What began as a rel…
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Matt Williams (Chaos Cub), Bear Attacks and the Art of Duct Tape Field Repairs
1:30:21
1:30:21
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1:30:21This week Matt Williams joins the podcast to talk about his bear encounter in Alaska. After watching his YouTube recap of the bear attack on his Super Cub I knew he'd be a great guest and I wanted to hear more about it. This is a great story about preparedness in the backcountry and I know you'll enjoy all the details! Follow Matt on YouTube and In…
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Anthony Longobardo and building a Southern Sierra Backcountry Playground
1:26:34
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1:26:34In this episode I talk to Anthony Longobardo…a backcountry pilot and pioneer making backcountry strips possible with dedication, grit, and hard work. Did you know that Southern California has some hidden gems for backcountry aviation? Dive into this episode where Anthony shares insider info on private airstrips tucked away in the beautiful Southern…
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Cathy Page turned 30 days in Idaho into 120 days of Backcountry Bliss
1:37:30
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1:37:30This week I talk to Cathy Page, an airline pilot, backcountry pilot, and STOL competitor on the STOL and STOL Drag circuits. She's a regular at STOL events and flies an orange CubCrafters Carbon Cub FX2 numbered "85". She's got a great story and passion for aviation! This is a great listen as we talk about her getting started in aviation and how sh…
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You are listening to Agri Culture, a podcast that aims to explore the stories of the people that make up our agricultural industry and culture of farming, in Scotland and beyond. On today’s episode Mary-Jane is joined by Barbara McLeod. Barbara owns and runs Cruciferous Croft in the Lochinver area of North West Scotland. She took on a croft herself…
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The Recreational Aviation Foundation with Bill McGlynn...The What, Why, and Where
1:06:41
1:06:41
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1:06:41This week I talk to Bill McGlynn, president of the Recreational Aviation Foundation. Our first episode was a great introduction to Bill and his path into backcountry flying. In this second episode we focus on the RAF exclusively and you'll learn all about the organization and its impact on backcountry strips around the country. Bill has such a pass…
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Balancing Babies and Business – Lanette Hines on Growing a Cleaning Company with Heart
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15:54
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15:54Lanette Hines, founder of Hines Services, LLC, turned one cleaning job into a thriving residential and commercial business serving over 100 homes a month. In this heart-filled episode, she opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, navigating motherhood, managing a team, and growing a company grounded in community care. This is a must-listen for a…
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From Teen Father to Community Visionary – Charles Lindsey on Youth Empowerment & Social Impact
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17:09Charles Lindsey’s journey is one of resilience, growth, and purpose. Becoming a father at just 20 years old shaped his path in profound ways. Now a father of four and a passionate advocate for youth and community development, Charles shares a deeply personal and inspiring story that shows how early responsibility, hardship, and a drive to uplift ot…
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Mastering Customer Loyalty Through Behavioral Data – Annika Everson on Marketing Psychology
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15:50What if understanding your customer’s behavior could unlock deeper loyalty and drive smarter marketing? In this Spotlight episode, Annika Everson, founder of The Loopology, shares her powerful journey from corporate life to launching a business that helps companies decode customer behavior through data, psychology, and connection. If you’re an entr…
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Solving Family Mysteries – Jessica Schneider on Forensic Genealogy
16:34
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16:34What if your family tree held secrets that could change lives—or settle million-dollar estates? In this episode, forensic genealogist Jessica Schneider opens up about her unique role in uncovering missing heirs, connecting lineage for legal cases, and navigating deeply personal family histories. If you've ever been curious about how real-life genea…
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Healing from Within – Kelsey Beaumaster on Functional Wellness, Hormone Balance & Health Advocacy
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17:19
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17:19When conventional medicine failed her, Kelsey Beaumaster became her own health advocate — uncovering mold illness, hormone imbalances, and nutrient deficiencies that left her body depleted. Her personal healing journey inspired her to help others reclaim their health, especially women facing similar battles. In this episode, Kelsey reveals how she …
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Navigating Insurance Claims After Disaster – Ross Sanders on Fire & Water Restoration
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15:34When disaster strikes, most homeowners are left in shock — uncertain, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to do next. That’s where Ross Sanders and the Lindstrom Restoration team step in. In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, Ross shares what it really takes to restore not just a home, but peace of mind after catastrophic fire or water damage. Whe…
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Building Authentic Brands Through Story – Kamden Nute on Personal Branding & LinkedIn Strategy
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14:05In a digital world saturated with noise, Kamden Nute dares to do things differently. In this Spotlight Session, the founder of BLK Sheep shares how authenticity and storytelling can cut through the clutter and drive real connection — and real business — on LinkedIn. If you’ve ever struggled to show up as your real self online or wondered how to tur…
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From Tech to Trucks – Jeff Kim on Branding Boldly with Minneapolis Sign Design
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13:48
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13:48When life laid him off, Jeff Kim didn’t just pivot—he wrapped his future in bold graphics and vision. This episode matters because it’s about rediscovering purpose, redefining success, and choosing freedom over burnout. Jeff's leap from corporate tech to creative entrepreneurship shows what's possible when you bet on yourself. In this episode, you'…
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Turning Homeownership Dreams into Reality – Curtis Hawkins on Mortgage Consulting & Financial Empowerment
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14:30What if your mortgage wasn’t just another debt—it was the foundation of your future? In this deeply insightful episode, Curtis Hawkins, seasoned mortgage consultant at M & M Mortgage, LLC, opens up about how he went from crunching numbers to empowering everyday people to buy homes. His story matters because it shows that behind every loan is a pers…
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From Barter to Better Coverage – Andy Culver on Entrepreneurial Resilience & Contractor-Focused Insurance
17:42
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17:42What do you do when the world flips upside down? Andy Culver reinvented himself—again and again. From launching a mortgage company and building a tech platform for bartering to becoming a trusted insurance agent, Andy's entrepreneurial spirit is unstoppable. In this episode, we unpack the journey of a man who turned career pivots into platforms of …
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Data-Driven Growth Strategies – Tom Pick on B2B Digital Marketing That Delivers
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16:30What happens when decades of experience meet relentless curiosity and measurable results? In this Spotlight Session, digital marketing consultant Tom Pick breaks down the strategies that truly move the needle for small and mid-sized B2B businesses. Whether you're a business owner overwhelmed by marketing buzzwords or a startup founder craving visib…
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Why Perfection Matters in Law – Taweh Anderson on Legal Integrity & Life Balance
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16:14What if perfection wasn’t just a standard—but a survival strategy? In this eye-opening Spotlight Session, attorney Taweh Anderson of TVA Law Office shares how the pursuit of perfection shapes his work, his mindset, and the way he reimagined his business after burnout. Taweh doesn’t just talk about legal systems—he unpacks the human cost of navigati…
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From $20 to Tech Innovation – Robin Crockett on Entrepreneurship & Empowering Women Through Virtual Bid
16:10
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16:10This episode is a powerful testament to resilience, vision, and the journey of turning a $20 dream into a 30-year legacy. Robin Crockett shares her story of launching Heaven Sent Home Cleaning, navigating personal and professional storms, and ultimately creating Virtual Bid, a groundbreaking mobile app revolutionizing service-based businesses. Robi…
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Demystifying Taxes & Financial Peace of Mind – Eric Stuber on Small Business Accounting
16:32
16:32
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16:32For many small business owners, “accounting” and “taxes” are words that spark anxiety. But for CPA Eric Stuber, they’re opportunities to bring clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. In this episode, Eric unpacks the often-intimidating world of bookkeeping, tax planning, and financial organization — all through the lens of empowering entrepreneurs …
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Confidence Through Lenses – Brianna Erickson on Vision, Style & Client-Centered Eyewear
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16:07When was the last time your glasses truly reflected you? In this heart-forward episode, Brianna Erickson, founder of Framed Reverie, shares her journey from traditional optician to mobile eyewear visionary. Whether she’s serving seniors, professionals, or everyday visionaries, Brianna brings more than frames—she brings confidence, connection, and c…
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Creating Community Through Collaboration – Chris Pederson on Entrepreneurship, Events & Staying True to Your Why
15:49
15:49
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15:49What happens when you grow up inside a family-run business and use that foundation to launch a multi-pronged career? In this episode, Chris Pederson reveals how his entrepreneurial path started with washing chairs at 11 and evolved into a life centered around events, creativity, and community-driven collaboration. His story is a must-hear for anyon…
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How to Remember Everyone You Meet – Bob Miller on Memory Mastery for Networking & Business
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16:12What if remembering names could change your business — and your life? Bob Miller, professional speaker, magician-turned-memory mentor, and author of Remember the Room, shares how one moment at a small event transformed his career and helped him develop a method that empowers anyone to improve their memory. Whether you're a teacher, entrepreneur, or…
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From Punk Rock to Post-Production Mastery – Andrew Macht on Audio, Film, and Following Creative Curiosity
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16:31From playing punk rock in high school to mixing audio for feature films and corporate giants, Andrew Macht’s journey is a powerful testament to passion, persistence, and following the creative spark — even when it means only sleeping two hours a night. Whether you're an aspiring sound engineer, a curious creative, or just someone juggling 9-to-5s a…
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Vibrational Healing from Within – Sara Crider on Sound Healing, Trauma Recovery & Divine Alignment
21:16
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21:16In a world where anxiety, trauma, and disconnection are at an all-time high, Sara Crider's story is a divine reminder that healing is possible — through vibration, intention, and surrender. Guided not by ambition, but by intuition, Sara discovered the power of sound healing through crystal singing bowls and tuning forks. What began as personal curi…
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Building Beyond the 9–5 – Jason Anderson on Entrepreneurship, Risk & Legacy
14:02
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14:02What happens when a numbers guy trades in spreadsheets for tents, tools, and teaching moments? Jason Anderson's journey from corporate accounting to building two businesses — Eagle Inspections MN and a thriving party/event rental service — is a powerful testament to reinvention, grit, and long-term vision. This episode matters because Jason’s story…
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Transforming Divorce with Compassion – Christie Lea Schroetter-Thompson on Mediation, Healing & Letting Go
7:49
7:49
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7:49What if divorce didn’t have to be a battleground? In this emotionally resonant episode, Christie Lea Schroetter-Thompson shares how her personal story inspired a professional mission — transforming one of life’s most painful transitions into a path for peace, growth, and healing. As a paralegal and mediator at Christie Legal, Christie guides famili…
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Climbing High & Giving Back – Perry Eggert on Trees, Risk, and Community Roots
16:36
16:36
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16:36What happens when a musician stumbles into tree work... and discovers his purpose in the branches? In this heartfelt and down-to-earth episode, Perry Eggert, founder of Eggert’s Tree Service in Albertville, MN, shares his journey from creative wanderer to climbing 100-foot pines — and how he’s using that hustle to serve his community. This episode …
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Healing Through Hands – Ashley Kunza on Massage Therapy, Chronic Pain & Giving Back
14:48
14:48
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14:48What if healing came not just from medicine, but from being deeply seen, heard, and cared for? In this powerful Spotlight episode, Ashley Kunza shares her journey from caregiving her son to founding Garden Of Healing Massage in Maple Grove, MN. Ashley’s story is a raw, honest dive into resilience, entrepreneurship, and what it really means to be of…
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Why Relationships Matter More Than Rates – Jeff Winship on Mortgage Lending with Heart
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13:04This episode goes beyond the numbers and dives into the heart of homeownership. Jeff Winship, known as the Mortgage Loan Ranger, brings over 27 years of experience—but what really sets him apart is his people-first philosophy. In a world of transactional deals, Jeff’s story reminds us why human connection is the real key to success in the mortgage …
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Helping Women Feel Seen, Not Just Styled – Abigail Hilgendorf on Authentic Beauty & Faith-Based Business
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10:00What if your beauty routine could be more than skin deep? In this heartfelt Spotlight Session, Abigail Hilgendorf of farfromsuperficial shares her journey from bathroom dye jobs in high school to running a thriving beauty business in Rogers, MN — all rooted in faith, authenticity, and connection. With a mission to help women feel seen, not just sty…
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From Retail to Real Estate – Nikki Popkp on Building Trust, Branding & Starting Over in a New Market
13:08
13:08
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13:08What does it take to completely reinvent your career—and your life—in a new state, a new industry, and a sea of competition? In this heartfelt episode, Nikki Popko shares her journey from corporate retail to real estate, the pivotal moment that changed everything, and why serving others—regardless of budget—is her true calling. Listeners will walk …
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Build Real Confidence Through Martial Arts – Chris McCune on Discipline, Self-Defense & Life Mastery
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14:53When a schoolyard fight with a bully ended with a broken nose, Chris McCune didn’t seek revenge — he sought mastery. That pivotal moment launched a lifelong journey into martial arts, leading to the creation of McCune’s Martial Arts in Brooklyn Park, MN. This episode is for anyone who’s ever thought, “I’ve always wanted to try that,” but never took…
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Capturing Life’s Wildflowers – Ivette Enright on Empowerment, Mindset & Motherhood
6:29
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6:29What starts as a creative hobby can evolve into a calling — especially when it's rooted in love, motherhood, and the desire to give back. In this touching episode of Spotlight, Ivette Enright shares how photography became more than just a skill — it became a way to honor her daughters and uplift the stories of women in her community. Named after he…
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Closing Big in Storm Season – Mitch Lauer on Roofing Trust & Sales Strategy
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17:03
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17:03From cold Minnesota hailstorms to warm homeowner referrals — Mitch Lauer’s journey from 9–5 to roofing sales success is anything but average. In this episode, Mitch shares how one Saturday of running leads changed everything — and why trust, transparency, and the right approach still win in a skeptical industry. You’ll hear: The exact moment Mitch …
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From Athlete to AI Innovator: How Xavier Thurman is Redefining Business Growth
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15:30🚀 “If you’re the smartest in your friend group, you’re in the wrong group.” Xavier Thurman, founder of X-Traordinary Development (MN), shares why surrounding yourself with the right people is the ultimate growth hack. 📞 Connect with Xavier: (763) 742-4823 | [email protected] 🎥 Watch the full Spotlight Session 👉 https://youtu.be/JWtrdmFQ4q…
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Brian Screws (OneAV8) rocks the RIVER BARS in South Georgia
1:15:50
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1:15:50This episode covers flying the river bars in Georgia with one of the state's biggest advocates. Brian Screws, and his YouTube channel OneAV8, highlights all the joys of flying in the backcountry with a Southeast flair. Here we talk about his getting started in aviation, transition to backcountry style, aircraft changes, flying to Arkansas and Byrd'…
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Immigrant to SEO Trailblazer | Sama Ali-Berchem’s Journey with Portkey
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17:23What does it take to turn a side hustle into a thriving digital marketing agency that helps businesses grow organically online? 🚀 Meet Sama Ali-Berchem, founder of Portkey, who went from building websites for her husband’s construction company to running a full-service SEO and web development agency serving clients across Minnesota — and beyond. As…
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From Burnout to Breakthrough 🚀 | How Lisa Wichmann Built Find My VA's to Empower Entrepreneurs
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15:30What if the key to growing your business wasn’t working harder… but finally letting go? Meet Lisa Wichmann, Twin Cities entrepreneur, realtor, and founder of Find My VA’s (Your Perfect Virtual Assistants). After 17 years running her own landscaping company and wearing every single hat, Lisa hit a breaking point. That moment of truth sparked a bold …
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Don Wade talks about CRASHING the Super Patriot Mark II
1:22:58
1:22:58
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1:22:58This episode is a candid discussion with Don Wade from Patriot Aircraft about his role as pilot during a crash. He was piloting the Super Patriot Mark II during a demonstration flight for a perspective customer in August 2025 when the engine quit shortly after takeoff. This interview occurred almost 2 months after the incident and the final report …
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Reclaiming Beauty from the Inside Out – Brenda Mendlik on Holistic Styling for Confident Women
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15:20What if your wardrobe could heal more than your closet? In this deeply empowering episode, Brenda Mendlik of Mindful Styling shares her personal journey from self-doubt to soulful confidence—and how she's helping women do the same through holistic personal styling. For Brenda, fashion isn’t about trends—it’s a tool for transformation. In a world th…
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Healing Starts Within: Michelle Aalbers on Trauma, Joy & Choosing Yourself
17:24
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17:24What if your deepest pain held the key to your greatest healing? In this soul-stirring episode of Spotlight, we sit down with Michelle Aalbers, intuitive coach, trauma-informed healer, and founder of Jai Dee | Choose Yourself, to explore what it truly means to come home to yourself. Michelle opens up about her own transformation—from buried trauma …
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Levi Noguess is EVERYWHERE you want to be in the Backcountry!
1:26:09
1:26:09
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1:26:09This is the best way to start off a second season of Backcountry Aviation Radio...with a big YEE HAWW! I had a great time getting to meet Levi and hearing all about his getting started in aviation and what he's done since then. You definitely need to follow him on Instagram and YouTube to see what's going on in the Backcountry and STOL communities.…
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Coaching, Empowerment & Changing the Game for Women in Hockey
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17:08What happens when a former college hockey player, mom, and process improvement consultant decides enough is enough? In this powerful Spotlight Session, we sit down with Sarah Becker—co-host of Two Women Who Give A Puck and founder of Clear Simple Business—to explore what it really means to change systems, whether in the boardroom or on the ice. Fro…
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Building Authority Through Authentic Storytelling – Will McLeod on Launching a Video-First Podcast Studio
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18:15In this energizing and transparent conversation, Will McLeod shares how his global media journey—from military storytelling in the Middle East to founding a full-scale podcast studio in Minnesota—led to the creation of PodcastCrew. For anyone who’s ever felt called to share their message but stuck on where to start, this episode is a permission sli…
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