Rural Ruckus

In this episode of Rural Ruckus, John Monson sits down with former Minnesota House Speaker Steve Sviggum to discuss what leadership looks like in an increasingly divided political landscape. Drawing from decades of experience in public service, agriculture, and state government, Steve shares his perspective on the importance of compromise, civility, and building relationships across political line...

In this episode of the Rural Ruckus Podcast, host John Monson sits down with Karen Scheiler , Head of Corporate Giving at Compeer Financial, to discuss the power of investing in rural communities and the future of agricultural philanthropy. Karen shares her journey from communications and public relations to leading strategic giving initiatives that impact communities across the Midwest.

In this episode of Rural Ruckus, host John Monson sits down with Chris Giesen to explore the critical connection between energy infrastructure and rural economic development. From powering communities across the Midwest to supporting local businesses and municipalities, Chris shares insights into how electric cooperatives play a vital role in sustaining and growing rural economies.

In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Steve Larsen opens up about the realities of mental health, the weight of stigma, and the courage it takes to speak honestly about struggle. From moments of darkness to finding strength in vulnerability, this episode explores what it truly means to ask for help, offer support, and choose hope even when it feels out of reach.

In this special episode of Rural Ruckus Radio , host John Monson sits down for a heartfelt conversation with his grandson, Eli, to talk about life growing up in small-town Minnesota. From snowball fights in the winter to pool days and bike rides in the summer, Eli shares the simple adventures, friendships, and everyday moments that make childhood meaningful.

In this episode of Rural Ruckus Radio, host John Monson sits down with Ron Ziegler from the Community Economic Development Association ( CEDA ) to talk about the real work happening behind the scenes in small towns across the region. From economic strategy and local leadership to community partnerships and long-term growth, Ron shares how CEDA helps communities build sustainable futures and turn i...

In this episode of the Rural Ruckus Radio Podcast, host John Monson sits down with Courtney Swanson for an in-depth conversation on leadership, business growth, and navigating change in today’s agricultural landscape. Courtney shares insights from her professional experience, discussing how organizations can scale effectively, adapt to evolving challenges, and stay focused on long-term success.

In this episode of the Rural Ruckus Radio Podcast, host John Monson speaks with Hillary Tweed about economic development, workforce challenges, and the critical role of housing in sustaining rural communities. Focusing on West Central Minnesota and the city of Benson, Hillary shares insights into how strategic housing initiatives, such as multi-phase development projects, are helping communities a...

In this episode of the Rural Ruckus Radio Podcast, host John Monson speaks with Leah Thiele about rural economic development, access to capital, and the challenges facing growing rural businesses. Leah shares insights into how strategic investment, innovative funding models, and community-focused solutions can help rural entrepreneurs scale their operations and remain competitive.

In this episode, John Monson talks with Jase Wagner of Compeer Financial about the future of rural America. They discuss how data-driven decisions, community-focused investing, and long-term planning are helping small towns and agriculture thrive. From housing to infrastructure, this conversation highlights how smarter investments can build stronger rural communities.

In this episode of Rural Ruckus Radio , host John Monson sits down with Perry Aasness , Government Relations and Legislative Affairs leader at Compeer Financial . Together, they dive into the realities facing rural communities as critical legislation stalls — legislation that could support financing for hospitals, ambulance services, senior care facilities, and other essential infrastructure acros...

This episode of Rural Ruckus features an in-depth conversation between host John Monson and distinguished agricultural broadcaster  Lynn Ketelsen of KOWZ.FM, whose career has spanned more than five decades across the Midwest. Ketelson reflects on his professional journey, including his early experiences in radio, his transition into agricultural reporting, and the significant relationships and eve...

In this inspiring episode of Rural Ruckus Radio , host John Monson sits down with Benya Cross , a new voice at the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) . Together, they explore what it means to lead with purpose in rural Minnesota — from investing in local entrepreneurs and community projects to fostering the next generation of changemakers. Benya shares her journey into community devel...

In this episode, host John Monson welcomes a very special guest—his son. Together they reflect on family, leadership, and the next generation of rural community builders. The conversation blends personal stories with professional insights, highlighting how rural values, community service, and generational continuity all shape the future of small-town vitality.

In this episode of Rural Ruckus Radio, John Monson sits down with Bob from Compeer Financial to talk about the unsung “workhorses” of rural communities—people and organizations quietly driving critical projects like rural health care, infrastructure, and economic development. From fixing local hospital roofs to connecting community leaders with funding partners, Bob explains how Compeer works behi...

Host John Monson reconnects with Amy Schaefer of Compeer Financial for a deeper dive into the root needs of rural communities. From infrastructure and health care to housing and daycare, this conversation highlights what the data is saying—and what real-world partnerships must do to meet the moment. With a strong emphasis on practical, forward-thinking solutions, this episode lays the groundwork f...

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, John Monson sits down with his son, Tom Monson , a rural banker and community leader from Kasson, Minnesota. As Marketplace President of MTB Bank and an active local Chamber member, Tom shares his unique, people-first approach to rural banking and economic development. From pop-up banks at local events to innovative small-town solutions, Tom proves that le...

In this episode, host John Monson sits down with Tim Penny , President of SMIF , to explore how long-term, place-based philanthropy is reshaping southern Minnesota. From early childhood support to rural entrepreneurship and workforce development, SMIF’s programs are planting seeds of progress across communities. Tim shares the importance of partnership, local trust, and flexible funding that meets...

In this episode of Rural Ruckus , host John Monson welcomes Tim Penny , President & CEO of the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) . They dive into how SMIF has built long-term impact through early childhood programs, entrepreneurial investment, and small-town partnerships. With a focus on collaboration and staying power, Tim shares what it takes to build lasting trust in rural phi...

In this episode of Rural Ruckus , John Monson sits down again with James Hanke of CEDA to explore how rural entrepreneurship can shape the future of small towns. From innovation labs to coaching cohorts, CEDA is helping local businesses thrive and creating a legacy of impact across Greater Minnesota. James shares how strategic investment in entrepreneurs uncovers the true potential of rural commun...

In this episode of Rural Ruckus , host John Monson is joined by James Hanke from Community Economic Development Associates (CEDA) to explore what it takes to bring lasting, strategic impact to small towns across the Midwest. From economic development strategies to community engagement and entrepreneurial growth, James shares stories from the field—offering practical insight into how rural towns ca...

In Episode 2 of Rural Ruckus , host John Monson continues his insightful conversation with Paul Kohls of Compeer Financial , taking a deeper dive into the people-first philosophy that drives Compeer’s work in rural communities. The conversation moves from the abstract idea of “rural America” to a more focused and heartfelt look at rural communities —where real people live, work, dream, and lead. P...

In this episode, host John Monson is joined by Paul Kohls of Compeer Financial to explore how Compeer is helping rural America thrive through innovation, investment, and intentional partnerships. Paul, who leads Compeer’s Rural Vitality Initiative , shares his perspective on what makes the organization different—and why supporting rural communities is central to their mission. Together, they discu...

Rural Ruckus is a podcast hosted by John Monson that delves into the challenges, opportunities, and stories shaping rural America. With a deep passion for agriculture and small-town life, John explores what’s happening on Main Streets across the country—from housing and daycare to labor shortages and economic development. Each episode sparks thoughtful conversation about how rural communities can...