So Much More, A Mall of America® Podcast

Today’s episode brings you a conversation with two of Minnesota’s most inspiring voices in leadership, innovation, and community impact. Steve Grove, journalist-turned-tech leader-turned-public servant, is now CEO and Publisher of the Star Tribune and a newly published author. His wife, Mary Grove, is a nationally respected investor and passionate advocate for entrepreneurs—especially those in und...

On this episode we have a guest like no other. She’s been on TV. She’s toured the country. She’s tiny, fluffy, and loves nuts. That’s right…it’s Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel! Her handlers Chuck and Toni share their stories as well.   What started as a simple rescue mission in Florida in 1978 turned into a full-blown, nutty legacy that continues to delight crowds of all ages. Learn how Twiggy b...

On this episode of So Much More, hosts Jill Renslow and Sara Johnson sit down with two of KS95’s most beloved voices—Staci Matthews of Staci & Hutch and Dez from Crisco, Dez & Wes. From awkward on-air moments and unforgettable guests to breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry, Staci and Dez bring their signature humor, heart, and behind-the-scenes stories. Plus, hear their wildest M...

In this episode of So Much More, we dive into the dynamic world of sports, travel, and the booming esports industry with someone who's been shaping the conversation for years—Jason Gewirtz, Vice President, Managing Director, and Publisher of the Sports Division at Northstar Meetings Group. From his roots in journalism to leading SportsTravel magazine and events like the TEAMS Conference, EsportsTr...

Wendy Maybury, comedian, speaker and mom joins Bryan Gallagher, General Manager of House of Comedy to peel back the curtain on the world of stand-up comedy. Together, we explore the awkward, hilarious and heartfelt moments that make stand-up unforgettable. And listeners may learn why stand-up comedy may be the bravest thing you could ever do.   You’ll also learn about free comedy writing workshops...

Mall of America keeps raising the bar—and the leasing team is the secret sauce behind the magic. In this episode, we’re joined by Carrie Charleston and Ashley Hofmann, two powerhouse women who are bringing first-to-market flagships, pop-up sensations, and big-name brands to life at MOA. From the buzz of Glossier’s record-breaking pop-up to the insider scoop on SKIMS, Edikted, Marine Layer, ALO, an...

In Part 2 of our 100th episode celebration, Dave Ryan returns, this episode is packed with even more laughs, life lessons, and unexpected gems. Dave may be best known for waking up the Twin Cities on KDWB, but this episode reminds us why he’s truly so much more: a sharp thinker, thoughtful writer, and all-around joyful human.   We start with a story that proves, once and for all, that Dave really...

So Much More celebrates 100 episodes! Dave Ryan, the voice that’s been waking up the Twin Cities for decades on KDWB is here to help us party. In this special two-part milestone episode of So Much More, Dave brings his signature humor, heart, and behind-the-scenes brilliance to the mic for a conversation that’s as entertaining as it is insightful.   From the moment he steps in, Dave dives into the...

Sun’s out, deals are on, and slime is flying! In this jam-packed episode of So Much More, we’re spilling the secrets behind Your Summer, Your Way at Mall of America. From crazy-good ride discounts (hello, Wednesdays in June!) to surprise giveaways, concerts, and yes—Twiggy the water-skiing squirrel—this summer is all about doing what you love. Hear from MOA marketing masterminds Sara Johnson and K...

Summer at Mall of America is more than just sunshine and shopping—it's a full-scale hospitality adventure. In this episode of So Much More, we’re joined by Preston Lougheed of Terratron Hospitality and Kate Anastasi of Radisson Blu Mall of America to get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to welcome thousands of summer travelers. From youth sports teams and international tourists to family...

Jason DeRusha is in the house! You know the name. You’ve heard the voice. You’ve read the tweets. For nearly 20 years, Jason DeRusha has been a trusted presence in Minnesota media-from the anchor desk at WCCO TV to drive time radio. But Jason is so much more than a journalist. He’s a curious connector, a civic convener, a podcasting pioneer, and a guy who can make you laugh, think, and crave a cro...

Dave and Linda Mona have shaped Minnesota’s story in more ways than one—through media, business, sports, philanthropy, and global travel. In this episode of So Much More, the Monas reflect on their remarkable careers: Dave’s evolution from journalist to PR trailblazer and Linda’s blend of creativity and commerce, including their beloved “Field of Dreams” store at Mall of America. Together, they’ve...

In this episode of So Much More, hosts Jill Renslow and Daniel Jasper sit down with two trailblazing leaders in Twin Cities media—Jayne Haugen Olson, Editor in Chief of Minneapolis St. Paul Magazine and President of Cities Media Group, and Shelly Crowley, Publisher at MSP Magazine. Longtime friends and collaborators with Mall of America, Jayne and Shelly share insights on the evolution of local pu...

In this special episode of So Much More, recorded live on Take Your Child to Work Day at Mall of America, hosts Jill Renslow and Daniel Jasper turn the mic over to the next generation. With more than a dozen kids—ranging from age 4 to teens—as our guests, we asked the real experts what they think their adults do all day, what store they’d open if they had the chance, and how they'd start their wor...

On this episode of So Much More, host Jill Renslow is joined by first-time cohost Brinley Zoller from the Mall of America social team and influencer program. Together, they sit down with two powerhouse content creators—Hannah Swenson and Gwen Dinh—to talk all things influencing. From how they got started to their favorite brand moments and the content that means the most, this episode gives an ins...

Mall of America is green every day of the year. But we truly celebrate in April which is Earth Month. Boasting more than 30,000 live plants and hundreds of trees, people often wonder how we handle potential plant pests. On this episode of So Much More, we feature two guests who are integral to our most fun and educational event to honor Earth Month, our annual Ladybug release! [Hint: they take car...

Walt Disney once said, “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.”  Two years ago, 11 year old Edyn Esparza cold-called Mall of America asking if we would sell her cake pops.  The answer was yes and the rest as they say is history.  This episode tells the story of young entrepreneur Edyn Esparza and her Mall of America Foods Manager mentor, Barb Ross-Hayes as they embark...

The right use of language has the power to foster connection between individuals and groups from all cultures.  Our guest, Ingrid Christensen, Founder and CEO of INGCO International has worked in the language industry for over 20 years.  First as an interpreter and eventually opening her own language service company to bridge translation gaps and connect cultures.   Connecting people through her b...

A kind word can change the world. Our guest, Adriana Carrig, CEO of Little Words Project has used words to help bring kindness to others and to yourself. More than a jewelry brand, it’s a community of people that support one another. In this affirming, uplifting conversation Adriana shares her views on compassion, kindness, building a business, Minnesota and Mall of America! 2:30 Why kindness and...

With a strong connection to Minnesota, and to the local sports scene, our guest has built a successful career in television broadcasting, sports announcing and as a radio host. Marney Gellner is well known to fans of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx as well as listeners of the KFAN Power Trip morning show. A native of North Dakota, and a long-time Minnesota resident, Marney shares great stories...

This episode features the return of a fan favorite guest, Roshini Rajkumar. Best known as a media personality, mainstage speaker, podcast host and C-Suite Advisor, Roshini shares practical insights on how to be present in the workplace and make meaningful impressions on your audience. She also covers her I.A.P. process that leads to successful interactions and partnerships. Her podcast the Crisis...

It’s one of our favorite times of year at Mall of America…it’s Spring Break time!  We’re seeing and feeling the first bit of spring and families, college kids and many visitors want ideas for some fun things to do with the kids while they’re off from school.  Well, this episode is packed with tons of ideas for your ‘YAY-cation’ here at Mall of America.  2:00 All about VIP Behind The Scenes Tours a...

Over the years, people have referred to Mall of America as ‘The Hollywood of the Midwest’ because of all the movies and production filmed in and around the Mall.  From Mighty Ducks 2 and Jingle All The Way, the Mall has hosted thousands of film crews from commercial shoots to feature film productions.  In this episode you’ll hear behind the scenes tales from these movies and discover what it takes...

In this episode, we dive our guests’ (Bryan Piatt and Laura Utecht) careers in TV journalism including the most adventurous stories they covered at Mall of America and beyond. In his current career as a mental health therapist, Bryan shares how the dark, cold winter months can impact people in different ways. He shares techniques and strategies to navigate these challenges and where help can be fo...

Mall of America has played host to more than 10,000 weddings over the years. From a wedding in the shark tank at SEA LIFE Aquarium to couples getting married on the Pepsi Orange Streak roller coast so many of these unions were amazing memories. The Mall event built an ice castle one year and had couples getting married in the middle…it was beautiful and extremely cold! To hear the entire conversat...