TrueLens Podcast

Ann sits down with City of Woodbury Parks and Recreation Director Michelle Okada to explore the newly renovated Central Park — a reimagined community hub that’s better than ever. Discover the stunning new tile and mural art, the completely redesigned Lookout Ridge indoor playground, expanded meeting spaces perfect for gatherings (even weddings of 200–300 people!), a dedicated senior space, and the soon-to-be home of TrueLens Community Media. Tune in for an inside look at how Central Park is evolving to serve the community in bold, exciting ways.

Episode Links:

A Look at the Renovations at Woodbury Central Park

Central Park Artists

Woodbury Central Park Website

TrueLens Community Media Website

Cottage Grove Chamber President and CEO Laurie Levine joins the show to celebrate all things local! We chat about the 328 Grill, a bit of Park High School history, and the exciting holiday events coming up — including the beloved Holiday Train. Plus, Laurie shares her take on tattoos, local businesses, and what makes south Washington County such a special community.

Episode Links:

Why Cottage Grove is a great place to grow your business!

328 Grill

Park High School History

Holiday Train

Breakfast with Santa

Cookies with Santa

www.TrueLensMedia.org

www.cottagegrovechamber.org

Join Ann as she chats with Laurie Staiger, President & CEO of the Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce, for a fun and heartfelt conversation.

You’ll hear:

It’s inspiring, surprising, and full of hometown pride - with a spooky little twist. Press play and get into the fall vibe with us!

Episode Links:

Steve Wills

From Collapse to Comeback

Ronally’s Pasta and Pizza

TrueLens Community Media

Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce

Election information

Woodbury Central Park

Cottage Grove Monster Bash Parade

Dodge Halloween Extravaganza

Woodbury Halloween Hoopla

In this episode, we're joined by Mayor Laurie Elliott of Newport! We talk about the city’s new dog park, explore the local library and community center, and chat with Mayor Elliott about exciting future projects in the works. Plus, we’ll fill you in on some great upcoming events around town. 

Show Links:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxuwfEicgF8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MIgQYQdLZZo

In this lively episode, Ann is joined by Mayor Keith Franke from St. Paul Park to talk about what sparked his passion for local politics and community service. Together, they dive into some fun TrueLens video stories — from Mik Mart’s hometown ice cream business to rising country star Hailey James. And don’t miss the trip down memory lane as they uncover the quirky history of the vegetable fights!

Show Links:

Hailey James

Mik Mart

TrueLens Community Media

City of St. Paul Park

St. Paul Park Heritage Days

Newport Pioneer Day

Woodbury Days

Mayor Myron Bailey joins Ann for a hometown-flavored episode! They reminisce about growing up in Cottage Grove—think Cheap Skate, Pine Hill Elementary, and the old dairy store - where nickle candy was totally a thing.

They also check out TrueLens videos featuring Riggs the therapy dog, the mystery of renamed streets, and local legend Gary Spooner. Bonus: the Mayor reveals his Trekkie side! 🖖

Show Links:

cottagegrovemn.org

TrueLensMedia.org

Why Cottage Grove Street Names Changed

Riggs

Gary Spooner

Episode #1

Join TrueLens Community Media Executive Director Ann Schweisguth with special guest co-host Mayor Anne Burt of Woodbury

Hop aboard this lively episode of the TrueLens Podcast, where we zoom through all things local—from high-tech transit to hometown history!

🚐 First stop: the Metro Micro Bus—a ride-share-style service that’s like Uber or Lyft.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or just curious, this episode is packed with fun, facts, and future-forward community news!

Show Links:

metrotransit.org/micro

woodburynewsnet.org

woodburymn.gov/TreeRebate

www.woodburymn.gov/1325/Private-Ash-Tree-Removal-Assessment-Prog

cottagegrovestrawberryfest.com

TrueLensMedia.org