Growing Destinations
Your go-to source for insightful discussions on destination development. The Growing Destinations podcast delves into the strategies, challenges, and successes that drive community growth. Each episode features in-depth conversations with local and national experts, uncovering universal themes and innovative practices that can be applied to any city or region.
Episodes
79 episodes
Evolving Media, Engaging Communities: Tammy Galvin of Greenspring Media
Greenspring Media is the team behind Minnesota Monthly, Midwest Design, custom content for destinations and a rob...
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Episode 79
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16:36
The Local Gift Revolution: How Neighborly Gifts Transformed Corporate Gifting
Sarah Richardson, of Rochester, Minnesota, never expected to transform corporate gifting. As a graphic designer, she was focused on helping clients build their brands. But when the pandemic hit, a weekend idea to create an e-commerce platform f...
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Episode 78
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23:15
Laughing Through Life: Miss Shannan Paul on Humor, Resilience, and Reinvention
Join the laughter-filled journey of Miss Shannan Paul, a multi-talented comedian who swapped legal briefs for punchlines, transforming from an aspiring lawyer into a beloved performer and community advocat...
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Episode 77
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24:22
Discover Southeast Minnesota’s Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo
Curious about the life of a dedicated naturalist and the fascinating world of Minnesota-native wildlife? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Jaide Ryks, a passionate naturalist from
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Episode 76
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15:52
The Heart of Local: Becky Montpetit’s Vision for Community Engagement
Have you ever wondered how a simple need can ignite a thriving, community-driven business? Meet Rochester, Minnesota entrepreneur Becky Montpetit, the visionary behind Rochester Local,
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Episode 75
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21:38
The legacy of the Nordic Shop in Rochester, Minnesota
The Nordic Shop in Rochester, Minnesota, has thrived for 50 years. Join us for an engaging conversation with Walter and Louise Hanson, the duo behind the Nordic Shop’s success. Their journey began wi...
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Episode 74
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24:04
CCF’s Rob Rankin on Advertising Trends and Industry Transformation
What if the key to breaking through the relentless "sea of sameness" in advertising lies in the vibrant arts and culture of Minneapolis? Join us as we sit down with Rob Rankin, President and CEO of CCF Advertisi...
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Episode 73
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17:32
Guiding Rochester, Minnesota’s Transformation: Alison Zelms on Urban Growth and Community Vibrancy
Join us for an insightful conversation with Alison Zelms, City Administrator of Rochester, Minnesota. Discover how Rochester is transforming from a "big little city" to a "little big city," blending gl...
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Episode 72
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24:37
The Magic of Chanhassen Dinner Theatres: Inside America's Largest Professional Dinner Theater Complex
In this episode of the Growing Destinations podcast, we spotlight the legacy and enduring appeal of Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, the nation’s largest professional dinner theatre complex. For over 50 years,...
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28:12
Minnesota tourism leaders discuss the state of the visitor economy – from challenges to opportunities
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 ...
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Episode 70
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24:43
Sue Zelickson’s Culinary Adventures: Iconic Moments and Personal Stories
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 th...
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Episode 69
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17:08
Bee Business: Chris Schad on Conservation, Beekeeping, and Entrepreneurship
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...
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Episode 68
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20:23
Green Bay's Journey to Hosting the NFL Draft
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 P...
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Episode 67
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21:09
Shaping Minnesota’s Business Narrative: With Twin Cities Business Editor-in-Chief Allison Kaplan
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 Mi...
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Episode 66
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20:09
The Trombone Trailblazer
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...
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Episode 65
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18:46
The Intern Experience
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 ...
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Episode 64
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23:06
Pedal Power: Nate Nordstrom’s Journey with New Spin Bicycle Shop
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 bi...
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Episode 63
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21:31
Exploring Rochester's Iconic Ear of Corn Water Tower
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, ...
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Episode 62
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18:11
Transforming Public Spaces Through Art with Muralist Greg Wimmer
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 th...
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Episode 61
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18:10
Reimagining Local News in the Digital Era with StarTribune CEO & Publisher Steve Grove
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 hi...
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Episode 60
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22:26
Inside the Minnesota Zoo with John Frawley and Jamie Flaws
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, introduci...
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Episode 59
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25:21
Minnesota's Rise as a Sports and Events Powerhouse with Wendy Blackshaw
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 ren...
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Episode 58
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21:39
Food Truck Success with Jersey Jo’s and Infuzn Foods
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 ...
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Episode 57
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19:51
Building the Future: Navigating Growth in Rochester, Minnesota
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 Rocheste...
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Episode 56
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19:22
Realia by Jen: Crafting Success with Jen Scheffler-Johnson
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...
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Episode 55
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15:56