So Much More, A Mall of America® Podcast

Ep. 129: Great New Eats at MOA

More great food is coming to Mall of America and everyone is excited! From handcrafted New Haven–style pizzas baked in just five minutes to customizable mac and cheese bowls that have gone viral on social media, these restaurants showcase the creativity and energy of the MOA dining scene.
 
Joining us are Chef Joshua Hedquist, the award-winning Food Network personality behind OG ZaZa, and Sam Danna, the Minnesota-based franchise owner bringing Roni’s Mac Bar to Mall of America for its first location in the state. Josh shares his journey from national television to building a pizza brand focused on simplicity, flavor, and second chances, while Sam takes us inside the comfort-food phenomenon that’s winning fans online and off.
 
We talk passion, personality, and what it means to be part of the Mall of America food community, plus what guests can expect when these two crave-worthy concepts open their doors.
 
NOTE: This episode was taped right before Black Friday weekend. Roni’s is expected to open mid-January on Level 3, South. OG ZaZa is currently open on Level 3, North in Culinary on North.
 
2:10       How Josh created OG ZaZa, New Haven-style pizza concept
4:30       Sam first experienced Roni’s at Texas A+M and was immediately sold on the idea
7:30       Ashley and our leasing team search high and low to bring the best food and stores here
12:00    Bringing new exciting concepts to Mall of America
18:00    Social media has helped spread the word on both of these great food brands
20:00    OG Zaza uses food for good – feeding and providing for those in need
 
Find all the great dining at Mall of America at: https://mallofamerica.com/diningguide
Find OG Zaza at https://ogzazamn.com/ and OGZaZa and OGTrailer on social media
Find Roni’s at https://ronismacbar.com/ and Roni’s Mac Bar on social media
 
Guests: Chef Joshua Hedquist, owner of OG ZaZa and Sam Danna, Roni’s Mac Bar franchise owner
 
Your host: Daniel Jasper, Ashley Hofmann
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 128: Reels, Stories, and Santa: Inside MOA’s Holiday Social Strategy

The holiday season at Mall of America doesn’t just happen. It’s carefully captured, crafted, and shared in real time by a creative team with a front-row seat to the magic.
 
In this episode, we’re stepping behind the camera with Brinley Zoller and Johanna Beierle, two of MOA’s talented Social Media Strategists who bring the holiday season to life across feeds, Stories, Reels, and TikTok. From documenting the first moments of décor installs, to planning the controlled chaos of Black Friday, to collaborating with seasonal influencers who help spread the spirit, Brinley and Johanna see the holidays earlier, and differently, than almost anyone.
 
Plus, we’ll share favorite holiday traditions, heartwarming moments, and a few behind-the-scenes insights that just might change how you see holiday content the next time it pops up in your feed.
If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to capture the heart of the season…this episode is for you.
 
2:35       The scope and scale of Mall of America social media
5:00       How to view the holidays from the viewpoint of a social media content creator
8:00       Preparing for Black Friday, and braving the cold
15:45    Touching and amazing stories that stand out
17:40    The wackiest social stories as told by our guests
20:00    Shout out to the rest of the SM team
21:30    Quick answer games with the two Johanna and Brinley
 
Follow Mall of America on all social channels: @Mall of America
 
Guests: Brinley Zoller and Johanna Bierle, social media content creators, strategists and experts at Mall of America
 
Your host: Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 127: Last-Minute Magic: LEGO, Toy + Gift Ideas at MOA

Holiday shopping crunch time is here, and we’ve got you covered. In this episode, we’re rounding up the hottest gifts, toys, and last-minute finds from across Mall of America, perfect for everyone on your list (yes, even the tricky ones).
 
We’re joined by Gail Larson, Senior Store Manager of the LEGO Store at Mall of America, who shares why LEGO continues to top wish lists year after year, which sets are flying off the shelves this season, and how families of all ages are building holiday memories together…brick by brick.
 
From must-have toys and nostalgic favorites to personalized gifts and unforgettable experiences, this episode is packed with inspiration to help you shop smarter, faster, and with a little more holiday joy.
 
NOTE: This episode was taped in early December. There’s only 1 Week Left until Christmas!
 
3:45       The classic toy (year-round) is LEGO, the store and its giant LEGO structures
5:30       The play area that entertains kids of all ages, and free make-and-take opportunities
7:15       A unique ‘mural build’ experience that happens four+ times a year at MOA LEGO store
9:15       The LEGO Family Christmas Tree – an exclusive offering at LEGO store
13:00    LEGO Ideas – the space where you can share design ideas with LEGO
14:15    Great savings and deals at Mall of America retailers and stores
16:15    Hot toy, game, retro, and activity ideas for this holiday season
19:15    Tips for shoppers visiting Mall of America in the coming days
22:45    Gift ideas for men
25:45    Fact or Fiction – a fun quiz about toys and games
 
For more Info: www.mallofamerica.com/holiday  
LEGO at MOA: https://www.lego.com/en-us/stores/store/mall-of-america
LEGO Ideas: https://beta.ideas.lego.com/
 
Guests: Gail Larson, Senior Store Manager of the LEGO Store at Mall of America
 
Your hosts: Daniel Jasper, Sara Johnson
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 126: The Countdown to Holiday Gifts at MOA

The holidays are just two weeks away, and if you’re feeling the pressure to track down those perfect last-minute Christmas gifts, don’t worry, Mall of America has your back. Today’s episode is all about saving time, reducing stress, and finding gifts people will actually love.
 
We’re joined by two fantastic guests who know the Mall inside and out. First up is Kelsey Cunningham, Marketing Manager at MOA, who’s here to share why attraction passes and experience-based gifts are the secret weapon for last-minute shoppers. From bundled deals to flexible digital options, she’ll help you find meaningful, memory-making gifts for everyone on your list.
 
Then we’re talking with Kaitlyn O’Brien, Manager at Rocket Fizz, the go-to spot for quirky, nostalgic, delightfully unexpected stocking stuffers. Whether you're shopping for kids, coworkers, or that tricky person who “doesn’t need anything,” Kaitlyn has fun, fast, under-$20 ideas ready to wrap.
 
If you’re racing the clock, craving inspiration, or just want to finish your list with confidence, this episode is packed with simple, joyful ways to bring the magic home—no panic required.
 
2:45       Our hosts and guests share their fun holiday tradition for the days leading to Christmas
5:30       The gift of experiences: countless ideas for the last-minute shopper
9:30       All deals are found on the website including great attraction bundles
10:00    The gift of annual passes – a wonderful way to spend time with families
11:45    The hottest stocking stuffers at Rocket Fizz and beyond (including pickle pop)
13:00    Customizable gift baskets and retro-era candy selection
20:00    Advice for last minute shopping and great gift ideas
22:00    ‘Gift’ or ‘Grinch’ a holiday-themed quiz
 
For more Info: www.mallofamerica.com/holiday  
 
Guests: Kelsey Cunningham, Marketing Manager at MOA; and Kaitlyn O’Brien, Manager at Rocket Fizz  at MOA
 
Your hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

JoJo Siwa at MOA: A Special Holiday Episode

In this high-energy special holiday interview, we’re kicking off Black Friday Siwa-style! It’s bright, bold, and bursting with joy!
 
Join us for a magical 7 a.m. conversation recorded right on Santa’s chair inside the Candy Cane Institute at Mall of America, where JoJo Siwa herself stopped by to celebrate one of the biggest days of the year.
With thousands of excited fans lined up for MOA’s legendary Door Busters (and counting down to JoJo’s first-ever holiday concert at noon) the energy was off the charts. JoJo didn’t just show up… she showed out. She surprised guests all morning by personally handing out exclusive Door Buster gifts, spreading sparkle and cheer one joyful moment at a time.
 
And then came the big moment: the debut of JoJo’s brand-new holiday song, “Message to the World (Little Drummer Girl)” — a glittery, powerful anthem that lit up the Rotunda.
 
In our interview, JoJo reflects on how Mall of America shaped her dreams, from visiting as a young dancer on the competition circuit to performing her very first solo MOA show eight years ago at just 14. She shares why she keeps coming back, what the world’s greatest mall still means to her, and how she hopes her new music becomes part of your family’s holiday traditions.
 
And because this is a Black Friday bonus episode…
You’ll also get access to exclusive footage from JoJo’s holiday performance, filmed live at MOA!
Grab your peppermint mocha, turn up the volume, and get ready — this is JOY-JO Siwa like you’ve never seen her before.
 
For more Info: https://jojosiwa.com/
 
Guests: JoJo Siwa, actress, recording artist, dancer, philanthropist, role model
 
Your hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 125: The 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship Comes to Minnesota!

Today on So Much More, we’re celebrating one of the biggest global sports moments headed straight for Minnesota: the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship! This high-octane tournament brings together the world’s best U20 hockey players for an electrifying, fast-paced competition that fans across the globe circle on their calendars.
 
We’re thrilled to welcome two of the powerhouse leaders behind bringing this international event to the Twin Cities: Wendy Blackshaw, President & CEO of Minnesota Sports & Events, and Jaimee Lucke Hendrikson, President and CEO of Visit Saint Paul.
 
We explore everything from the fan experience to community impact, from the behind-the-scenes planning to what international visitors can expect when they experience Minneapolis–Saint Paul in the winter. Whether you’re a lifelong hockey fan or new to World Juniors, this episode is packed with insight, energy, and hometown pride.
 
1:00       Why the World Juniors is coming to Minnesota – The State of Hockey
4:00       The history of World Juniors and the connection to Minnesota
5:15       The lessons Minnesota learned from Sweden and Canada as host countries
8:30       Preparing to welcome international amateur hockey players + fans
9:15       World Juniors HQ store is open at Mall of America
10:00    Bold North Breakaway and Fan Fest in St. Paul; and more family fun
12:45    Exhibition Series brings the World Juniors to cities across Minnesota
14:30    Community initiatives (Assist 26) are critical to the mission of MN Sports + Events
15:50    Volunteers help make large-scale events like this happen
20:00    How to find tickets, volunteer and enjoy the festivities
22:00    A trivia contest about World Junior Championships
 
For more Info: www.mnsportsandevents.org or www.worldjuniorsmn26.com
 
Guests: Wendy Blackshaw, President & CEO of Minnesota Sports & Events, and Jaimee Lucke Hendrikson, President and CEO of Visit Saint Paul
 
Your hosts: Jill Renslow
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 124: Inside Scoop on All Things Holiday at MOA

Today on So Much More, we’re unwrapping all the magic of Black Friday and the Holiday Season at Mall of America. From Mystery Cards and giant doorbuster moments to early-morning music, hot cocoa, and a special holiday performance by JoJo Siwa. We’ll hit the highlights on the best deals, the can’t-miss entertainment, and all the festive fun happening throughout the Mall.
 
Jill and Dan have been here for every Black Friday for more than two decades – and they are ready to share the inside scoop, tips, and tricks with you. This year our holiday campaign is all about togetherness, so join us on this magical holiday journey and consider this your quick guide to a joyful, high-energy start to the holiday season at MOA!
 
Special thanks to the Spot It! card game and Minnesota Lottery for helping to make our Black Friday celebrations so exciting.
 
1:15       The action starts early on Black Friday at our North Entrance
3:30       Scratch off silver prizes and door busters – everyone’s a winner
5:45       Black Friday activations throughout the holiday weekend
6:30       World premiere of a new holiday single with JoJo Siwa!
9:45       Great Black Friday deals on attractions at MOA including annual Nick Universe passes
11:30    Elf. Air. Express. A new Chicago to Twin Cities holiday flight experience to visit MOA
13:15    More than 25 new stores have opened at Mall of America: how to gain rewards in our APP
16:45    Parking tips and tricks including valet services
18:00    Festival of Trees a free event that benefits four local charities
20:00    The world-famous Candy Cane Institute is ready to welcome guests… naughty + nice!
24:15    Our vision for this holiday season – HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
 
Black Friday + Holiday Happenings at MOA: https://mallofamerica.com/holiday
 
Your hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 123: Into the Wild: Stories from the Minnesota Zoo

Get ready for a deep dive into the wild! In this episode, we’re joined by Liz Gilles, who leads the Minnesota Zoo’s innovative education programs, and Tyler Ahnemann, the mastermind behind its most exciting behind-the-scenes experiences. Together, they share how the Zoo sparks discovery for guests of all ages—from hands-on animal learning to jaw-dropping EdVenture trips across the globe.
 
Liz explains how education and conservation go hand in hand, offering families, schools, and community groups new ways to understand wildlife. Tyler reveals what really happens when guests step into restricted areas, meet animals up close, or take part in once-in-a-lifetime encounters. You’ll also hear how the Zoo and Mall of America collaborate in creative ways to bring joy, learning, and conservation awareness to millions of visitors each year.
 
Friendly Note: Our end-of-episode trivia game may or may not contain… let’s call them “imaginative interpretations” of sloth behavior. For the real scoop, check out the “Sloth Myths” link included at the end of this description.
 
1:15       Origins and mission of ‘The New Zoo’ – a new, modern take on zoos
4:45       Traveling the world and connecting that to the mission of the Minnesota Zoo
6:45       Traveling locally and the world with the Minnesota Zoo
8:00       Understanding the conservation programs and their importance
9:00       Backstage Pass experiences for MN Zoon guests
10:15    Exploring the collaborations between Mall of America and Minnesota Zoo
12:00    Winter animal finds and Winter Fest at the Zoo
14:00    Some of ‘our favorite’ animals and why they are so cute
18:15    Fun trivia games on animals, wildlife and the world
 
Minnesota Zoo info: www.mnzoo.org
Travel EdVentures info: https://mnzoo.org/travel-edventures-2/
Backstage Pass info: https://mnzoo.org/backstage-pass-2/
Sloth Myths: Sloth Myths: 14 Things You Think You Know About Sloths — The Sloth Conservation Foundation
 
Guests: Liz Gilles, Curator of Education and Tyler Ahnemann, Unique Experiences Specialist of the Minnesota Zoo
 
Your hosts: Jill Renslow, Sara Johnson
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 122: Family Fun on a Budget: Secrets from Twin Cities Frugal Mom

Joining us is Lisa Stockert, better known as Twin Cities Frugal Mom. She is a trusted voice for parents who want to enjoy life on a budget without missing out on great experiences. From her first visit to the Mall as a wide-eyed kid in the 1990s to exploring it now with her own family, Lisa has seen how Mall of America continues to evolve, inspire, and deliver fun for every generation.
 
In this episode, Lisa shares her favorite money-saving tips, hidden gems, and her go-to list of free and affordable activities that make family time both joyful and budget-friendly. We’ll also dive into how she built a thriving online community of followers who trust her for honest, practical advice on stretching every dollar without sacrificing quality or fun.
 
Whether you’re a lifelong Minnesotan or planning your first visit, you’ll walk away with insider insights and inspiration for your next great adventure, right here at Mall of America.
 
2:00       With the origins of her blog 17 years ago, Lisa shares her frugal journey
5:35       Reminiscing about former Mall of America stores and attractions
10:00    Free family-friendly activities at MOA
15:00    Legends from when the Mall first opened
16:15    MOA Insiders and other cost-saving ideas including holiday-time annual pass savings
17:35    Holiday free fun for everyone to enjoy
20:00    Twin Cities holiday activities (outside of the Mall)
22:35    The joy of staying overnight at Radisson Blu and JW Marriott at Mall of America
 
For information on Twin Cities Frugal Mom visit: https://twincitiesfrugalmom.com/
For MOA holiday happenings, events and store information visit: www.mallofamerica.com
 
Guests: Lisa Stockert, Twin Cities Frugal Mom
 
Your hosts: Daniel Jasper, Jill Renslow
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 121: Beyond the Jersey: How the NBA Store and Lids are Changing Fan Experiences

Sports retail is no longer just about what you buy, it’s about how it makes you feel. In this episode, we explore how the NBA Store and Lids are redefining the fan experience through innovation, customization, and immersive design.
 
Guest Adam Herstig, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Partnerships at Lids, shares how his team is transforming stores into destinations where passion and fandom come to life. From interactive customization zones to exclusive merchandise and digital storytelling, Adam explains how the future of sports retail is about connection, creativity, and community.
 
Whether you’re a lifelong basketball fan or simply love great brand experiences, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to shop like a fan.
 
1:30       A history of sports merchandise licensing, and Adam’s career journey
4:00       The Lids group including hats, apparel, NHL store and NBA stores
6:30       The future of sports fandom and sports retail
9:00       It’s all about customization from headwear to gear…The Custom Zone
13:50    The NBA Store and Lids stores culture…where passion drives service
18:45    Where the love for NBA continues to grow across the world
22:30    The measurement of success for the brand
24:00    The lightening round Q & A
 
For information on all the MOA NBA store visit: https://mallofamerica.com/directory/nba-store
For information on the MOA Lids stores visit: https://mallofamerica.com/directory/lids-east346
 
Guests: Adam Herstig, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Partnerships at Lids
 
Your hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.