Kevin King sits down with Marlène Boissonnault, goaltender for the Minnesota Frost and Walter Cup champion. Marlène shares her journey from young athlete to professional goalie, offering insight into the mental side of goaltending, the resilience required at the pro level, and the rapid rise of women’s hockey through the PWHL. She also reflects on the impact of mentorship, the habits that keep her grounded off the ice, and a favorite Twin Cities hidden gem she loves.

Aiva Schmitz of the University of Minnesota women’s tennis team reflects on the experiences that have shaped her development as both an athlete and a leader. She discusses the influence of her family, the balance between academics and high‑level competition, and how she has learned to manage ego and embrace honest feedback. Aiva also shares her favorite hidden gem in the Twin Cities, adding a personal touch for listeners.

In this episode of Twin Cities Leaders, host Kevin King sits down with Nell Rueckl, founder of Watershed Spa, for a thoughtful conversation about the importance of resetting one’s mindset and the challenges leaders face when prioritizing self‑care. They explore cultural perspectives on wellness, the vision behind Watershed Spa, and how integrating multiple wellness services can support recovery and overall well‑being.

The discussion also examines how leadership behaviors influence team dynamics, the guilt many leaders feel when taking time for themselves, and practical strategies for building healthier habits.

Referenced Work

Kim, S., Park, S., Park, J., & Sohn, Y. W. (2023). Benefits of leaders’ pleasurable recovery activities on follower performance via emotional contagion. Journal of Applied Psychology.

In the season 3 premiere of the Twin Cities Leaders Podcast, host Kevin King sits down with professional matchmaker Erica Suzanne for a candid conversation about leadership, relationships, and the emotional patterns that can pull people into unhealthy or toxic dynamics. Together, they explore how subtle boundary crossings occur in leadership roles, why emotional vulnerability can cloud judgment, and how unmet needs often shape the choices people make in both personal and professional settings.The discussion draws on research about toxic leadership, follower behavior, and emotional compliance, highlighting how power, gender expectations, and relational pressure can influence decision‑making.This episode invites listeners to reflect on the emotional drivers behind their choices and the importance of setting boundaries that support healthy leadership and connection.Referenced WorksGandolfi, F., & Stone, S. (2022). Toxic leadership: A review and perspective.Gandolfi, F., & Stone, S. (2018). Leadership, leadership styles, and servant leadership.Winn, G., & Dykes, A. C. (2019). Follower compliance and the emotional dynamics of toxic leadership.

In this conversation, Kevin King and Julie Olson Rand discuss the critical topic of mental health in the workplace. They explore the importance of understanding mental health, the stigmas and misconceptions surrounding it, and how generational differences impact perceptions and discussions about mental health. Julie shares her personal experiences and insights from her role at the University of Minnesota, emphasizing the need for organizations to support mental health initiatives. They also delve into the unique challenges men face regarding mental health and the societal pressures that contribute to these challenges. The conversation concludes with rapid-fire questions addressing common misconceptions about mental health and a discussion on the impact of the holiday season on mental well-being.

And don't miss Julie's Twin Cities Leaders Hidden Gem reveal sponsored by Kowalski's Markets.

In this episode of the Twin Cities Leaders Podcast, host Kevin King sits down with Matt Monroe, owner of EaTo Italian Restaurant in Minneapolis, to discuss how culture is created and sustained in the hospitality industry. Matt shares why empowering staff to make decisions is central to building a vibrant dining atmosphere, and how trust and autonomy lead to happier employees and more engaged guests.The conversation goes beyond the plate, exploring the behind‑the‑scenes elements—lighting, music, beverage options, and overall vibe—that contribute to a restaurant’s identity and shape memorable guest experiences. Together, Kevin and Matt highlight how culture is not just about food, but about crafting an environment where staff and guests alike feel connected, valued, and inspired.

In this engaging conversation, Kevin King, sits down with Madeline Nachbar, Style and Trend Editor for Minneapolis St. Paul Magazine and Grant Whittaker, Stylist and fashion show producer, to explore the intersection of fashion, personal style, and leadership. Madeline and Grant share their personal journeys into the fashion industry, the impact of style on professional presence, and how authenticity plays a crucial role in navigating workplace dynamics. The discussion also touches on post-pandemic style shifts, the influence of athletes fashion, and the importance of open dialogues about personal expression in professional settings.

In this engaging conversation, Kevin King sits down with Lois Arterberry, head coach of the University of Minnesota's women's tennis team to share her journey in tennis and coaching. She discusses the importance of representation, her experiences as a coach, and the complexities of managing a Division One program. She also reflects on the evolving needs of Gen Z student-athletes and the importance of encouragement and trust in leadership. And don't miss her hidden gem reveal sponsored by Kowalski's Markets: Where it is all about the joy of good food.

In this episode, Kevin King reflects on the first half of the second season of Twin Cities Leaders, sharing insights about the podcast's purpose, the importance of community engagement, and the process of selecting guests. He discusses the significance of building culture and trust in leadership, highlights the hidden gems segment, and expresses gratitude for community support and partnerships. Kevin also shares his experiences with sponsorships and the evolution of the podcast's content.

In this episode of Twin Cities Leaders, host Kevin King sits down with Dr. Scott Schreiber, Clinic Director at Minnesota Spine and Sport and a board-certified rehabilitation specialist. Dr. Schreiber shares his journey into healthcare and the powerful impact of establishing core values in a clinical setting.

He discusses how to build a culture that prioritizes patient care, align hiring practices with those values, and use social media to connect meaningfully with patients. And here’s something you won’t want to miss: Dr. Schreiber reveals a surprising and fun way he recognizes team members who embody the clinic’s values—let’s just say it involves a championship wrestling belt.

Whether you're a healthcare professional, entrepreneur, or leader looking to build a values-driven organization, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration.