Growing Destinations

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 internships in Rochester, Minnesota. Discover the ins and outs of drafting press releases, managing social media, engaging with the community, facilitating promotions and even writing speeches for the mayor. This episode is packed with insights into the growth, confidence, and hands-on experience that internships can provide.

City of Rochester, MN
Experience Rochester, MN

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 bikes is evident as he showcases how these innovations are transforming lives and enhancing family biking adventures.

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, Director of Facilities and Building Operations for Olmsted County, who shares the fascinating backstory of this beloved structure. Learn why preserving this historic tower amid Graham Park's redevelopment was a community-driven choice, reflecting the County’s dedication to honoring its heritage.

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 the creative and practical challenges of his large-scale projects. Discover how his major mural for KROC Radio in Rochester in 1999 set the stage for a series of transformative artworks across the state, each uniquely reflecting its surroundings. His latest project is a “Greetings from Rochester” mural.

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 him to modernize a storied newspaper and discuss why expanding coverage beyond the Twin Cities is essential for relevance in today's evolving media landscape. We also explore the potential of AI to strengthen user experiences. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the survival and evolution of local journalism in a digital world.

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, introducing guests to species from around the globe. Education programs engage audiences at the Zoo, throughout the region, and around world. Conservation programs protect endangered species and preserve critical ecosystems. Meet John Frawley, Director of the Minnesota Zoo and Jamie Flaws, Executive Director of the Minnesota Zoo Foundation.  They bring us inside the Zoo and share their insights, the success of the new Tree Top Trail and why Zoo’s matter.

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 renowned events like the NCAA Women’s Final Four and the record-breaking 2023-2024 Big 10 Women’s Basketball Tournament to Minnesota's doorstep. And there's no stopping there; upcoming highlights included the 2024 Olympic Gymnastics Trials and the 2026 IIHF World Juniors Hockey Championships. Wendy stands as a staunch advocate for women in sports leadership, embodying the spirit of empowerment and excellence.

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 Jersey Jo’s, serving authentic cheese steak sandwiches in Rochester, MN and Chandu Valluri is a partner with Pine Island, MN based Infuzn Foods, delivering the fresh taste of Indian inspired cuisine to your doorstep. They have become collaborators and good friends and discuss the rewarding experience of adding Food Trucks to their businesses.

Jersey Jo's
Infuzn Foods
Experience Rochester, MN

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 Rochester braces for a decade of transformative growth, with Mayo Clinic’s Bold. Forward. Unbound. initiative, Pat acknowledges the inevitability of obstacles along the way, including the need for more skilled workers. Yet, his optimism remains unwavering, rooted in the belief that patience and perseverance will pave the way for a brighter future. At the heart of Pat's mission lies a singular ambition: to foster the expansion of housing in Rochester.

Rochester Area Builders Association
Bold. Forward. Unbound.
Experience Rochester, MN

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 eye for innovation, she has sculpted distinctive jewelry lines and captivating art pieces. Jen's unwavering fascination with the dynamic world of retail fuels her aspirations, which someday may include her own storefront.

Realia by Jen
Experience Rochester, MN