People and Places and How We Use Spaces

From childhood dreams to a respected voice in Minnesota media, Jason DeRusha’s career is a masterclass in staying authentic while adapting to a rapidly evolving landscape. With deep roots in storytelling, a relentless work ethic, and a passion for community engagement, DeRusha has built a legacy rooted in both integrity and innovation.  With humor, honesty, and humility, Jason reflects on his time...

When it comes to the world of commercial real estate research, few embody the spirit of curiosity, creativity, and collaboration as deeply as Nicole Larson and Jesse Tollison of Colliers.  In this wide-ranging podcast conversation, the two shared their unconventional paths to real estate, the evolving dynamics of the retail sector, and how data — when framed correctly — can become a powerful story...

In this dynamic and faith-filled episode, Sheletta Brundidge—Emmy-winning broadcaster, entrepreneur, and founder of ShelettaMakesMeLaugh.com —shares her remarkable journey of walking in purpose, trusting God, and building a business rooted in boldness and belief.  From launching her podcast network after years of being overlooked, to receiving a free RV and endorsement deal from a billionaire, She...

In this unforgettable episode, Lisa sits down with commercial real estate legend Helen Brooks—a true pioneer who reshaped an industry and inspired generations of professionals. At nearly 95, Helen reflects on her remarkable 40+ year career, breaking into commercial real estate at a time when women couldn’t even open their own bank accounts.  With sharp wit, wisdom, and warmth, she shares how she b...

Holly Masek is the Port Authority Administrator for the City of Bloomington, and her job is to explore the city’s bold transformation.  Holly shares insights on economic development, small business support, creative placemaking, and Bloomington’s growing diversity. From revitalizing commercial spaces to attracting international businesses, she discusses how the city is evolving into a more walkabl...

Edie Weintraub is a real estate expert with a passion for creating vibrant, community-driven spaces. She shares her unconventional journey from studying biology and working as a dental assistant to discovering her love for real estate and urban development.  Edie’s perspective on creating spaces where people truly want to gather is inspiring. Whether you're interested in real estate, entrepre...

Logan Swanson’s story is one of determination, resilience, and a deep desire for financial and personal freedom. As the owner of Prime Land Exchange and host of The Land Fixer Podcast , Logan’s journey into land investing was not just about making money—it was about reclaiming control over his life. Logan transformed his life through real estate investing. Learn how he scaled from $250 land deals...

Colleen Carey was a young student when she was inspired by a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He introduced her to the idea of socially responsible development, stating that real estate is about "creating a terrarium for people to live in and as developers, there's a social responsibility to do that right," a philosophy that resonated deeply with her. In 1993, Colle...

In 2005, Jerry Baack and MJ Crocker started Bridgewater Bank - a top performing bank nationwide and one of the largest located in Minnesota.  Jerry and MJ explain how Bridgewater started, how it provides a higher level of service - especially to entrepreneurs, why they believe in pushing networks to increase NetWorth's, and the decision to go public. Bridgewater Bank Jerry Baack LinkedIn MJ C...

Panel: Peter Mork - President, Capital Partners Joe Radach - Director of Development, Capital Partners Jesse Neumann - President/Developer, Designing Earth Contracting Alan Freeman - President, Three Oaks Marketplace Property Owners Association, Inc. Shelton Weeks (Ph. D.) - Professor, Dept. of Economics and Finance Send us Fan Mail

John Lorence is an Executive Vice President in CBRE's Occupier Advisory & Transaction Services group. He is responsible for creating and maintaining client relationships through real estate planning, negotiation, and transaction management. In this episode, hear about John's first big break, how he feels the industry has changed from when he started, and how his international deals c...

With more and more people struggling to find an affordable place to live - Deidre Schmidt takes on that responsibility and combats it in a positive way. Schmidt is the President and CEO of CommonBond Communities - an affordable housing developer with services that enhance the lives of residents of all ages throughout the Midwest...housing 13,000 residents a year. She is responsible to create a pat...

Ann Cazaban is the Executive Director of Southside Community Health Services. Southside provides high quality and affordable medical, dental, behavioral and vision services. Southside was founded in 1971 and has been a staple in the Minneapolis community to lead a happy and productive life, built on the foundation of good health. Southside embarked on a new project, expanding their services with a...

Brad Schafer is the Chairman and CEO of Schafer Richardson, which provides quality investment, development, construction, leasing and management services throughout the Midwest. After his sister-in-law introduced him to the industry, Brad has amassed an impressive 38-year career. Listen to Brad talk about his first deal and investment property, how Shafer Richardson came about, and how they are th...

Jeremy Jacobs is an Executive Managing Director at Colliers, leading markets throughout the Midwest. Jeremy comes from humble beginnings growing up in a small town in Virginia. After joining the ROTC in Middle School, his Army interest was immediately sparked. Being the first person in his family to attend college, he went to the University of Richmond, and then 9-11 happened. Jeremy attended law...

Jillian Kalogerson has been handy from a young age. Learning everything from her dad, she renovated her own home while going to law school. She learned that law school wasn't what she ultimately wanted, but building and construction was. Fast forward to today, she is the Principal at RISE Collaborative Development - a full-service construction company specializing in meeting clients' nee...

**This interview is special as it marks our 50th Episode milestone!!** I want to thank my team who has helped me along the way - and all the amazing guests that have taken the time to impart your wisdom to all our wonderful listeners and making the podcast what it is today! Rafik Moore immigrated from Uzbekistan in 1998. Knowing he was in the Land of Opportunity; his path taught him the true meani...

Andy Babula is the Director of the Real Estate Program at the University of St Thomas. From real life experiences in the Real Estate Industry from Target to United Health to Assembly, Andy brings his expertise to the classroom - setting the stage for the future leaders of the Twin Cities Real Estate space. I hope you're paying attention to this podcast as Andy leaves everyone with a tidbit of...

After years climbing the corporate ladder, and much success in the Advertising industry, Erinn Farrell couldn't ignore a longing within her - she knew something else was out there where she could be dedicating her value and time in a better way. Erinn went on to partner with three other women to bring forth The Coven - a vibrant and inclusive coworking community where unique entrepreneurs and...

Who knew painting houses on Summit Avenue in St. Paul would be the start of the ever-so-successful career of Peter Mork? As the managing partner of Edina-based Capital Partners, Peter looks back on his exciting career and how it led him to be the commercial real estate veteran he is today. Peter also gives insight into finding good debt, the importance of education, and how to maximize your time i...

Joe Latina was born into a family restaurant business, spending much of his childhood washing dishes and cooking breakfast. His path continued in the hospitality industry until he dipped his toes in Real Estate and got his license and began investing. Now, Joe is one of the top-producing real estate brokers in the Mid-Atlantic region and is the Managing Principal of LMT Commercial in Wilmington, D...

Jenna Myrland believes that reshaping places will reshape communities, which in-turn, reshapes people’s lives. As the owner and designer of her studio, JM Workshop, Jenna is using her past experiences as a vehicle to elevate spaces for change.  Her work with a humanitarian agency focused on design for connection and community across the globe. It inspired her to unite practice and purpose in the b...

Josh Helgesen has been handy from the get-go.  Woodworking in the shop with his dad sparked interest early and turned into a passion he would soon form his career around.  Fast forward to 2001, he was brought onto Greiner Construction as an apprentice. Working as a carpenter, then onto foreman/superintendent roles, Josh continued to climb the ladder until now, as the majority owner. With Josh in t...

A former football player at the University of Minnesota, Scott Redd has always been determined to do his best on, and off the field. While his football career ended when he graduated college, his most important job was just beginning in the workforce. Now, Scott Redd is the CEO and President of Sabathani Community Center, a pillar in the heart of South Minneapolis, where it provides people of all...

From the small town of Harmony, Minnesota with a population of about 1,000 people, Jonathon Cremer grew up in a 4th generation family manufacturing recycling business. He learned the ins and outs of how a business is ran from a young age. You could say growing a business was in his blood. While his family created a community in business - he wanted to create a community in buildings - and out came...