So Much More, A Mall of America® Podcast

This week on So Much More, we're bringing you two special conversations featuring unique experiences happening at Mall of America.   In Part One, Jonathan Chong and Yenni Chen, co-founders of Niko Niko Boba, share the story behind their limited-time collaboration with Peanuts. From Snoopy-inspired beverages and exclusive merchandise to the nostalgia of Camp Snoopy, learn how this playful partnersh...

From sold-out concerts and championship-caliber hockey to family shows and unforgettable live experiences, Grand Casino Arena is one of Minnesota's premier entertainment destinations. This week, we're joined by Kelly McGrath, Vice President and General Manager of Grand Casino Arena, for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep one of the region's busiest venues running at full speed.    K...

Tony Oliva’s story is about much more than baseball. In this episode of So Much More, we sit down with Minnesota Twins legend Tony Oliva and his son, Ric Oliva, author of No Hay Problema: The Amazing Story of Tony Oliva, for a conversation about resilience, family, and legacy.   Tony reflects on his journey from Cuba to the major leagues, the sacrifices and second chances that shaped his path, and...

Lulus began as a small vintage shop in Northern California and has grown into a global fashion brand known for helping women celebrate life’s special moments with confidence and style.   In this episode of So Much More, we sit down with Patrick Buchanan, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Lulus, to discuss the brand’s journey, its loyal customer following, and its summer pop-up at Mall of Ameri...

Summer is in full swing at Mall of America, and this year's them, The Great Indoors, is redefining what a summer getaway can look like. In this episode, we're joined by Sara (SJ) Johnson, Marketing Director, and Kelsey Cunningham, Senior Marketing Manager, to explore everything happening at MOA this season.   From the return of Mystery Prizes, where guests can win everything from shopping and attr...

The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games are coming to Minnesota June 20-26, and they promise to be one of the most inspiring events our state has ever hosted. In this episode, we sit down with Christy Sovereign, CEO of the Games, to explore how this national event will bring together thousands of athletes, coaches, volunteers, families, and fans in a celebration of achievement, determination, and incl...

For the past ten years, the Crayola Experience at Mall of America has inspired millions of guests to color outside the lines, embrace creativity, and make unforgettable family memories.   In this colorful episode, we’re joined by Carlos Saldana, Attractions Supervisor, and Kelsey Cunningham, Senior Marketing Manager, to celebrate a decade of imagination, hands-on fun, and crayon-filled adventures....

Mall of America is entering an exciting new chapter, with a fresh wave of announced brands and newly opened concepts already creating major buzz among guests. From fashion and beauty to globally inspired dining and viral social media favorites, the retail landscape continues to evolve, and Mall of America is right at the center of it.    In this episode, we sit down with leasing team members Carri...

Today’s episode dives into the fast-growing world of K-pop with Andrew Melendres and Toby Vang of MNKPOPCONNECT, a Minnesota-based community group bringing fans together through dance events, cultural celebrations, and shared passion for Korean pop culture.   From their recent Random Dance Challenge at Mall of America to the excitement surrounding major K-pop appearances and performances in the re...

What does Mall of America look like through an international lens?   In this episode, we’re joined by Lukas Wolf of RTL Group as he captures the Mall experience for audiences in Germany. From behind-the-scenes access to exploring SEA LIFE at Mall of America, live entertainment, and even security operations, Lukas dives deep into what makes this destination unique. Along the way, he shares what sur...

In this special two-part episode of So Much More, we explore Artful Arches, the vibrant immersive installation transforming Mall of America’s North Atrium into a space of creativity, connection, and exploration.   In Part One, listeners meet Katie Donahue and Katharina Hoerath of K-Works Studio, the visionary artists behind the installation. They share the story behind their creative journey, what...

Spring comes to life in this colorful and creative episode as we celebrate the return of Art in Bloom with the Minneapolis Institute of Art…affectionately known as Mia. This beloved annual tradition transforms world-class artwork into breathtaking floral interpretations, blending nature and creativity in ways that surprise and inspire.   We’re joined by Liz Short, President of The Friends Board of...

Step into a world where old-school style meets modern-day meaning. In this episode, we’re talking all things vintage as Totally Rad Vintage Fest returns to Mall of America on April 18–19.   We’re joined by Sarah Emerson, founder of Totally Rad Vintage Fest, to explore how a passion for retro fashion turned into one of the Midwest’s most anticipated shopping events. From ‘80s throwbacks to Y2K gems...

Soccer is more than a game…it’s leadership, culture, and business. In this episode, we’re joined by Manny Lagos, a Minnesota soccer legend whose career has taken him from professional player to head coach of Minnesota United FC and now to Chief Development Officer for the club.   Manny shares insights from his journey through the sport and what it takes to lead both on the field and inside a profe...

Today’s episode is extra special as we sit down with Jason Earles following an incredible fan meet-and-greet at Mall of America. Best known for playing Jackson Stewart on the hit Disney Channel series Hannah Montana, Jason joins us as the show celebrates its 20th anniversary and fans everywhere are feeling the nostalgia.   We also talk about his new podcast, Best of Both Our Worlds: The Official,...

April is Earth Month, and Mall of America celebrates with sustainability initiatives and unique traditions that bring nature indoors.   In this episode, we’re joined by Maggie Boedigheimer, Strategic Project Specialist and Earth Month project manager, along with interior landscapers Tyler Stoehr-Good and James Everhart. Together, they share how thousands of plants are cared for throughout the Mall...

As the snow melts and the days grow longer, Minnesota transforms into something truly special.   We’re joined by Lauren Bennett McGinty, Executive Director of Explore Minnesota, who shares a behind-the-scenes look at how the state is preparing for a busy and exciting travel season. Lauren offers insight into emerging travel trends, what today’s visitors are seeking, from outdoor adventure to meani...

The Winter Olympics recently wrapped up, leaving us with unforgettable moments of pride, perseverance, and world-class competition. Today, we’re reflecting on the Games with someone who knows that stage firsthand.    Minnesota hockey legend Natalie Darwitz joins the show to share her perspective as a three-time Olympic medalist with the United States women's national ice hockey team. Natalie takes...

Spring Break at Mall of America! A fresh start to a new season and thoughtful ways guests can plan, play, and make the most of every moment of their Spring Break get-a-way.   From special travel-focused itineraries to value-packed attraction bundles this year’s Spring Break at Mall of America is built to feel seamless, energetic, and unforgettable. We explore free interactive options like the MOA®...

Today’s episode is all about what’s next. From how we shop and spend, to how entertainment, technology, and AI are reshaping the retail experience...and defining the future.   We’re joined by Mary Van Note and Beth Perro-Jarvis from Ginger, a strategic partner to Mall of America. They share insights on evolving consumer expectations, trends in physical retail and entertainment, the influence of AI...

Today’s episode is all about culture, connection, and celebration as we welcome Lunar New Year at Mall of America. We’re joined by Xiaoyan Luo, PR Director of the Alliance of Minnesota Chinese Organizations, and Steven Zeng from Beard Papa’s to talk about this year’s vibrant Lunar New Year festivities, presented by Niko Niko.   Taking place February 21 and 22 in the Huntington® Bank Rotunda at Mal...

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, today’s episode is all about celebrating love through thoughtful gifts and memorable experiences at Mall of America. We start with Megan Townsend, Head of Marketing for North America at Läderach, who shares the story behind the iconic Swiss chocolate brand and why it has become a go-to for elevated Valentine’s Day gifting. From handcrafted chocolate sl...

With the Super Bowl just days away, today’s episode celebrates the biggest game of the year…Mall of America style. NOTE – watch this episode if possible, you won’t want to miss the designs.   We’re joined by fashion designer Christopher Straub, who kicks things off by showing off his Super Bowl–inspired dress designs, a memorable Mall of America activation that blended high fashion with football....

Joining us today is Carl Radke, star of Bravo’s Summer House and author of the new memoir, Cake Eater. Carl is at Mall of America for a special book event, and we’re grateful he took the time to sit down with us.   In Cake Eater, Carl shares a candid and deeply personal look at his life, navigating career shifts, family dynamics, profound loss, and his journey through recovery. It’s an honest, vul...

In this episode, we’re joined once again by Carrie Charleston and Ashley Hofman from Mall of America’s leasing team, the minds behind the mix. Together, we explore how new retail, dining, and experiential concepts come together to create unforgettable moments for guests. From viral openings like KPOP NARA and Pop Mart, to nostalgic collaborations like Hello Kitty + Friends Build-A-Bear, to crowd-d...