So Much More, A Mall of America® Podcast

Ep. 156: Boba, Beads & Building Community

This week on So Much More, we're bringing you two special conversations featuring unique experiences happening at Mall of America.
 
In Part One, Jonathan Chong and Yenni Chen, co-founders of Niko Niko Boba, share the story behind their limited-time collaboration with Peanuts. From Snoopy-inspired beverages and exclusive merchandise to the nostalgia of Camp Snoopy, learn how this playful partnership came to life and why it's creating smiles for guests of all ages.
 
Then in Part Two, Rochelle Peterson and Kat Sry of Lotus Beads & Jewelry discuss The Grande Connection, a global effort to create a one-mile-long World Peace Chain in honor of Hiroshima Day, and how guests can be part of this meaningful community event.
 
1:45       How Niko Niko Boba got started (right here at Mall of America)
6:00       Partnering with fabled brand, Peanuts, featuring beloved characters 16Snoopy + Woodstock
10:00    The inspiration behind the Peanuts collab, and the great merch available
12:00    Quick questions and answers from Jonathan, Yenni and Dan
16:00    The Grande Connection – the story behind the creation of a Peace Chain
22:00    Bringing everyone together on August 6th at MOA for The Grande Connection
25:50    The message is about positivity, hope and the future
29:30    About Lotus Beads and Jewelry at MOA and some final thoughts
 
Visit: https://www.nikonikoboba.com/
Visit: https://www.lotusbeadsandjewelry.com/
 
Guests: Jonathan Chong and Yenni Chen, co-founders of Niko Niko Boba; Rochelle Peterson and Kat Sry of Lotus Beads & Jewelry
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 154: From Lady Gaga to MN Wild Hockey: Behind the Scenes of Grand Casino Arena

From sold-out concerts and championship-caliber hockey to family shows and unforgettable live experiences, Grand Casino Arena is one of Minnesota's premier entertainment destinations. This week, we're joined by Kelly McGrath, Vice President and General Manager of Grand Casino Arena, for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep one of the region's busiest venues running at full speed. 
 
Kelly shares her career journey, reflects on the excitement surrounding Lady Gaga's spectacular spring performance, and gives us a preview of an incredible summer lineup featuring artists like Alex Warren, Melanie Martinez, ZAYN, Cody Johnson, and Monster Jam. We also explore the unique energy of Minnesota Wild game nights, how fan expectations are evolving, and the countless details that go into creating memorable experiences for every guest who walks through the doors. Whether you're a sports fan, concert lover, or simply curious about what happens behind the curtain, this conversation offers a fascinating look inside the venue where Minnesota comes together. 
 
1:00 An introduction to Kelly McGrath and her professional journey 
4:30 How the community comes together to put on extraordinary events 
6:00 The summer lineup at Grand Casino Arena from soft rock to Monster Jam 
10:30 Some musical surprises coming and the joy of seeing them in person 
11:45 The shift in how consumers react to purchasing tickets 
14:15 The challenges with operating a large, aging building 
16:45 Service First Initiative at Grand Casino Arena – creating great memories 
21:50 Tips for parking, dining and enjoying your night at the concert 
 
Visit: https://www.grandcasinoarena.com/  
 
Guests: Kelly McGrath, Vice President and General Manager of Gand Casino Arena 
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper 
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn. 

Ep. 154: Tony & Ric Oliva: A Story of Family, Baseball, and Belonging

Tony Oliva’s story is about much more than baseball. In this episode of So Much More, we sit down with Minnesota Twins legend Tony Oliva and his son, Ric Oliva, author of No Hay Problema: The Amazing Story of Tony Oliva, for a conversation about resilience, family, and legacy.
 
Tony reflects on his journey from Cuba to the major leagues, the sacrifices and second chances that shaped his path, and what it meant to finally receive the call to the Hall of Fame. Ric shares why he wanted to tell his father’s story for a younger audience and how Tony’s signature outlook “no hay problema” became a guiding philosophy for their family. Together, they talk about baseball, belonging, Minnesota, and the lasting connection between Tony’s Twins legacy and the site where Mall of America now stands.
 
1:45     Tony recalls playing at Metropolitan Stadium, and loves visiting Mall of America and home plate
3:15     Tony recalls former teammates and how they helped him as a rookie
5:00     What drove Tony to earn a Gold Glove and All Star status
9:00     Ric talks about growing up with a famous father, and the book he wrote
15:00    How never giving up can lead to success
21:00    When father gets to pitch to hall-of-fame father at MN Twins Fantasy Camp25:15    What it meant to be called into the Hall of Fame
28:40    All about the book, “No Hay Problema” and the most important lesson
 
Visit: https://ricoliva.com/
Visit: https://www.facebook.com/MNTwinsFantasyCamp/
 
Guests: Tony Oliva, Ric Oliva
 
Hosts: Daniel Jasper, Jill Renslow
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 153: Casual, Fun + Trendy…Lulus Pop-Up at MOA

Lulus began as a small vintage shop in Northern California and has grown into a global fashion brand known for helping women celebrate life’s special moments with confidence and style.
 
In this episode of So Much More, we sit down with Patrick Buchanan, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Lulus, to discuss the brand’s journey, its loyal customer following, and its summer pop-up at Mall of America. Patrick shares insights on creating memorable retail experiences, what guests can expect from Lulus this summer, and advice for brands considering pop-up activations.
 
The conversation also explores this season’s fashion trends (including the rise of butter yellow), the impact of AI and technology on the industry, and a few fun rapid-fire questions to close out the show.
 
2:00     The story behind Lulus, and why the brand has such loyalty
5:15     Offering apparel that is beautiful, fun and affordable
8:15     What the brand hopes to learn from the Mall of America experience
12:00    Advice for brands considering doing a pop-up experience
15:30    What guests to Lulus can expect to experience this summer
18:30    Summer fashion trends and colors (yes… it’s butter yellow season)
21:50    How fashion brands look at the AI/technology evolution
25:00    Off-the-cuff responses on fashion and life
 
Visit: https://www.lulus.com/
Visit: https://www.mallofamerica.com/
 
Guests: Patrick Buchanan, SVP of Marketing at Lulus
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Maggie Boedigheimer
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 152: The Great Indoors, Your Ultimate Summer at MOA

Summer is in full swing at Mall of America, and this year's them, The Great Indoors, is redefining what a summer getaway can look like. In this episode, we're joined by Sara (SJ) Johnson, Marketing Director, and Kelsey Cunningham, Senior Marketing Manager, to explore everything happening at MOA this season.
 
From the return of Mystery Prizes, where guests can win everything from shopping and attraction perks to grocery and gas gift cards, to exciting off-site events throughout the community, there's no shortage of ways to join the fun. We also dive into Nickelodeon Universe's Summer Rewind, a nostalgia-filled celebration featuring milestone anniversaries for beloved Nickelodeon favorites, special character appearances, and new family experiences including PAW Patrol.
 
Plus, learn how MOA's curated itineraries can help guests discover hidden gems, insider tips, and personalized ways to spend a day at the Mall, and hear how attraction bundles make it easier than ever to experience favorites like Crayola Experience, SEA LIFE, FlyOver America, and more while saving money.
 
1:00     All about ‘The Great Indoors’ summer adventures at Mall of America
4:30     Returning again this summer, Mystery Prizes presented by Pepsi
7:00     Nick characters greet fans in Nickelodeon Universe all summer long for Summer Rewind
13:45    Ryan Meetup Group – all Ryan’s can ride the Ryan Coaster on July 24
15:30    Summer itineraries for guests of all ages at www.mallofamerica.com/itineraries
17:45    Planning and saving with attraction bundles – customized for your needs and fun
19:30    Summer Fun fast answers by our team – great tips and ideas for guests
 
Visit: https://www.mallofamerica.com/
Visit: https://nickelodeonuniverse.com/summer/
Visit: MOA Attraction Bundles
 
Guests: Kelsey Cunningham, Senior Marketing Manager
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Sara Johnson
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 151: Welcoming the Special Olympics USA Games to Minnesota

The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games are coming to Minnesota June 20-26, and they promise to be one of the most inspiring events our state has ever hosted. In this episode, we sit down with Christy Sovereign, CEO of the Games, to explore how this national event will bring together thousands of athletes, coaches, volunteers, families, and fans in a celebration of achievement, determination, and inclusion.
 
Christy shares her personal journey with Special Olympics, what it means to lead the USA Games, and why the Twin Cities were selected to host this extraordinary event. We discuss the lasting impact the Games will have on Minnesota, the role of community partnerships, and how organizations like Mall of America are helping create unforgettable experiences for athletes and visitors alike, including the MDI Fan Zone at Mall of America on June 23.
 
From the excitement of competition and opening ceremonies to interactive fan zones, family programming, and the powerful tradition of the Law Enforcement Torch Run, this conversation highlights the many ways the Games inspire people of all abilities to connect, learn, and celebrate one another.
 
2:00     How Minnesota came together to win their bid to host the games
6:00     Christy’s path to leading this unique athletic event
8:15     What was the biggest surprise – or lesson learned – when planning for the games
12:25    The meaning behind the logo for the games
14:15    How Minnesotans consistently show up when it matters: more than 20,000 volunteers
16:00    The timeline for the 2026 games from the national torch run, to opening & closing ceremonies
18:30    All about the youth athlete program (ages 2 to 7) bringing kids together
20:00    Advice for first-time Special Olympics spectators and fans, and a challenge for you
24:00    The legacy will continue after the games, making an impact for our community
 
Visit: https://2026specialolympicsusagames.org/
Visit: https://specialolympicsminnesota.org/
Visit: https://www.mallofamerica.com/
 
Guests: Christy Sovereign, Chief Executive Officer, 2026 Special Olympics USA Games
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 150: Coloring Outside the Lines: Crayola Experience MOA Celebrates 10 Years

For the past ten years, the Crayola Experience at Mall of America has inspired millions of guests to color outside the lines, embrace creativity, and make unforgettable family memories.
 
In this colorful episode, we’re joined by Carlos Saldana, Attractions Supervisor, and Kelsey Cunningham, Senior Marketing Manager, to celebrate a decade of imagination, hands-on fun, and crayon-filled adventures. From favorite exhibits and unforgettable guest moments to the evolution of the attraction over the years, Carlos and Kelsey share what makes Crayola Experience such a special part of the Mall of America experience.
 
We also get a preview of the exciting 10th birthday celebration happening June 6th and 7th, including special activities, surprises, and ways families can join the fun. Plus, the conversation takes a nostalgic turn as we dive into favorite crayon colors, discontinued classics, and the emotional attachment people have to a simple box of crayons.
 
1:30       The journey that brought Carlos to the Crayola Experience
4:30       Why guests truly connect with the Crayola brand – it’s generational
7:00       What the ‘experience’ in the Crayola Experience is all about
10:00    The value guests can find at the Crayola Experience
11:40    Hands-on activations guests of all ages can enjoy
16:30    The soft-play area inside Crayola Experience for adventurous kids, and Rainbow Rain
18:30    The 10th Anniversary Celebration details including crafts, treats and giveaways
24:00    Trivia and fast answer round
 
Visit: Crayola Experience
Visit: https://www.mallofamerica.com/directory/crayola-experience
 
Guests: Carlos Saldana, Attractions Supervisor at the Crayola Experience, and Kelsey Cunningham, Senior Marketing Manager at Mall of America
 
Hosts: Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 149: Fresh New Finds at MOA

Mall of America is entering an exciting new chapter, with a fresh wave of announced brands and newly opened concepts already creating major buzz among guests. From fashion and beauty to globally inspired dining and viral social media favorites, the retail landscape continues to evolve, and Mall of America is right at the center of it. 
 
In this episode, we sit down with leasing team members Carrie Charleston and Ashley Hofmann to explore what’s driving the momentum behind these exciting additions and how the team curates a mix that feels fresh, relevant, and experience-driven for today’s guests. 
 
We talk about newly announced brands including Cotton & Snow, House of Seoul, Kiokii, Studs, and Lulus, along with recently opened concepts like Banana Republic, KPOP NARA, DUCK, Sweet Crunch Tanghulu, and Roni’s Mac Bar. Along the way, Carrie and Ashley share insights into emerging retail and dining trends, what makes a brand the right fit for Mall of America, and which openings have generated the biggest guest reactions so far. 
 
1:00 Prepping for the largest retail leasing conference of the year, ICSC in Las Vegas 
4:30 Recently opened fan favorites, refined fashion to K-pop inspired retail and fun eats 
12:45 New concepts coming soon including Cotton & Snow, Kiokii, Lulus and Studs (now open) 
20:00 Updates on other tenants currently under construction 
24:45 Lightning round: quick questions and sometimes surprising answers 
 
Visit: https://www.mallofamerica.com/shopping/new  
 
Guests: Carrie Charleston, Vice President of Leasing and Ashley Hofmann, Leasing Director at Mall of America 
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper 
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn. 

Ep. 148: Inside Minnesota’s Growing K-pop Scene

Today’s episode dives into the fast-growing world of K-pop with Andrew Melendres and Toby Vang of MNKPOPCONNECT, a Minnesota-based community group bringing fans together through dance events, cultural celebrations, and shared passion for Korean pop culture.
 
From their recent Random Dance Challenge at Mall of America to the excitement surrounding major K-pop appearances and performances in the region, Andrew and Toby discuss how the local fan community continues to grow and evolve.
 
We explore what makes K-pop such a global phenomenon, why live performances create such unforgettable energy, and how events like random dance challenges turn strangers into instant friends. The conversation also highlights the dedication, creativity, and inclusivity that define K-pop culture, both in Minnesota and around the world.
 
2:00     The story behind Minnesota KPOP Connect
4:30     It began as an intern idea and grew into an annual tradition
6:30     What a K-Pop dance challenge is, and how it has grown
8:20     The appeal of modern Asian brands at Mall of America including KPOP NARA
9:00     A surprise pop-up appearance by KATSEYE and other memorable moments at the Mall
11:30    Free live performance by AMPERS&ONE on May 15
14:15    The new Mall of America events procedures
21:00    All about K-pop groups, concerts and the inclusive experience
24:00    The culture of photo card trading
 
Visit: https://www.mnkpopconnect.com/
Visit: AMPERS&ONE at MOA
Visit: Mall of America Events
 
Guests: Andrew Melendres and Toby Vang of MNKPOPCONNECT
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Sierra Goerg
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 147: Mall of America Through a European Lens

What does Mall of America look like through an international lens?
 
In this episode, we’re joined by Lukas Wolf of RTL Group as he captures the Mall experience for audiences in Germany. From behind-the-scenes access to exploring SEA LIFE at Mall of America, live entertainment, and even security operations, Lukas dives deep into what makes this destination unique. Along the way, he shares what surprised him most, how MOA compares to Europe, and how he approaches storytelling for a global audience.
 
A fresh, outside perspective on a place you may think you already know.
 
1:30     All about RTL German a large European TV Production/Broadcasting company
2:15     Lukas’ career path in journalism, currently based in the U.S.
4:00     Some of the stories Lukas has covered in his career
7:30     Why photos and videos of MOA don’t do it justice; a first-time visitors impression
9:45     Spending time with landscapers at the nation’s largest mall
11:00    SEA LIFE behind-the-scenes an incredible experience
12:00    Getting the background on keeping Mall of America safe and secure
 
Visit: RTL German Story on Mall of America
Visit: www.rtl.de
 
Guests: Lukas Wolf, U.S. Correspondent & Creative Producer, RTL Group
 
Hosts: Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.