So Much More, A Mall of America® Podcast

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.

Ep. 120: From Labubu to Fine Chocolate: The Latest Buzz at Mall of America

What’s trending at Mall of America? Just about everything. From the buzz around Pop Mart and the playful energy of DUCK!, to new global fashion favorites like Mango, Primark, and Evry Jewels, and delicious food concepts like Roni’s Mac Bar, Mogouyan Hand-Pulled Noodles, and OG Zaza. There’s something new for every guest.
 
In this episode, leasing pros Carrie Charleston and Ashley Hofman return to give us the inside scoop on how brands are discovered, why certain concepts just click, and what it takes to keep 5.6 million square feet feeling fresh and full of energy.
 
We’ll talk about global icons like Samsung and Läderach, the comeback story of Love Your Melon, and how each new tenant adds its own flavor to the MOA experience. Whether you love collectibles, chocolate, or a great story…you’ll find it here.
 
1:30       Introducing our leasing guests and some of their new favorite finds
4:00       Scoping out new brands, products and tenants
6:00       The hidden strategy behind leasing ‘zones’
7:15       It’s all about Labubu (and more fun things)
10:15    New amazing apparel including Mango, EVRY Jewels, and Primark
16:30    Roni’s Mac Bar to hand-pulled noodles, new dining options at MOA
22:00    New experience/lifestyle tenants include Samsung and LYM
 
For more information on all the new stores visit: https://mallofamerica.com/shopping/new
 
Guests: Carrie Charleston, Vice President of Leasing and Ashley Hofmann, Leasing Director at Mall of America
 
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. 119: The First Hmong Arts Celebration at Mall of America

Mall of America is about to make history with its first-ever Hmong Arts Celebration, honoring 50 Years of Hmong Arts in Minnesota. This vibrant event will fill the Huntington® Bank Rotunda with music, dance, poetry, and visual art that showcase the depth and diversity of Hmong creativity.
 
In this episode of So Much More, we’re joined by Lue Finisher Thao, owner of Cypher Side Dance School and a leading voice in the Twin Cities arts community, and Kylie Passe, Experiential Events Coordinator at Mall of America. Together, they share the story behind this groundbreaking celebration; how it came together, what guests can expect, and why representation and cultural storytelling matter now more than ever.
 
Listeners will hear about Lue’s journey building Cypher Side into a hub for movement and mentorship, Kylie's behind-the-scenes insight into curating a lineup that spans generations of talent, and the shared pride of bringing Hmong artistry to one of the world’s most visited destinations.
 
Whether you’re an art lover, community supporter, or simply curious about the people shaping Minnesota’s creative future, this conversation is a celebration in itself.
 
1:45       How the name ‘Cypher Side’ came to being – it’s about individual creativity and community
3:30       The flavors and sounds of cultural community events at MOA
4:15       Traditional and modern-fusion fashion; music; dance; celebrities and more
6:35       All about Cypher Side Dance School
9:00       This event is about bringing awareness and encouraging big dreams
10:30    Interactive crafts and exhibits that will be part of the celebration
13:20    Break dancing elves and Santa – yes, it’s true!
15:00    Favorite past Mall of America Cypher Side dance events
18:00    How it takes great partners and a team to pull off major events
 
For more information on Cypher Side Dance School visit: https://cypherside.org/
 
For more information on the Hmong Arts Celebration visit: https://mallofamerica.com/events/view/35242
 
Guests: Lou Finisher Thao, owner of Cypher Side Dance School; Kylie Passe, Experiential Events Coordinator 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. 118: Heart on Ice: The Passion and Power of Hockey Moms

Guests Vineeta Sawkar and Kristi Plante, along with host Jill Renslow, have something special in common: they are proud Hockey Moms. From early-morning practices to late-night tournaments, hockey moms know the meaning of dedication—and the power of community. Vineeta and Kristi are also co-hosts of this year’s Hockey Mom Face-Off at Mall of America.
 
In this episode, we dive into what makes the hockey mom experience so unique, the moments that keep them cheering from the stands, and what guests can look forward to at this year’s celebration of all things hockey family. Whether you’re lacing up skates or packing the post-game snacks, this episode is for every parent (and fan) who knows the magic (and mayhem) of life at the rink.
 
1:30       A day in the life of a Hockey Mom vs. other activities
2:30       What the hockey community life means; about cheering for the kids and helping each other
6:00       The World Juniors Championship – reflections of a mom
8:00       The international impact and appeal of The World Juniors Championship
10:00    How the process works to select players for the United States team
13:15    Yes, there is going to be a Hockey Mom All-Star Challenge at Mall of America on November 13
19:30    Memories and joys of being a Hockey Mom (and a Goalie Mom)
22:30    Why Hockey Families have a specially-vented room in the garage
23:30    How The World Juniors will touch many parts of Minnesota and how to get tickets
25:20    A Hockey-Mom Face-Off Quiz
 
For more information on Hockey Mom All-Star Challenge visit: https://mallofamerica.com/events/view/35949
For information and tickets to The World Juniors Championship visit: https://www.mnsportsandevents.org
For information on Vineeta Sawkar on WCCO visit: https://www.audacy.com/podcast/the-morning-news-with-vineeta-sawkar-2e837
 
Guests: Vineeta Sawkar and Kristi Plante, co-hosts of the Hockey Mom Face-Off at Mall of America
 
Your host: Jill Renslow
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 117: When The Beatles Rocked Minnesota

In this special episode of So Much More, we take listeners back to August 21, 1965, when The Beatles performed their one and only Minnesota concert at Metropolitan Stadium — the very site where Mall of America now stands. Sixty years later, the magic of that night still echoes through music history and personal memories.
 
Our two guests share remarkable first-hand stories: Ron Butwin, who gave George Harrison a guitar that went on to become part of Beatles lore, and Bob Pratt, who, at just 10 years old, met the Fab Four and watched the concert from the dugout alongside his father.
 
Together, they share what it was like to witness Beatlemania up close, how those moments shaped their lives, and why the Beatles’ legacy still inspires new generations, especially as Paul McCartney returns to Minneapolis this fall.
 
This podcast was made possible with the help of our friends at WDGY.
 
2:00       How Ron, as an 18-year-old musician came to meet The Beatles
5:45       The story behind the guitar that was gifted to The Beatles
10:45    Ringo’s hilarious response to the gifted guitar
12:45    The story of the thank you note – and the importance of it – from George Harrison
15:00    The Beatles were notorious for following up with their fans
20:00    All about The Beatles press conference in the Twin Cities
22:45    Bob’s memories as a 10-year-old meeting The Beatles
26:45    What the concert was like for our two guests
 
For more information on WDGY The Original Rock & Roll Station visit: https://wdgyradio.com/
 
Guests: Ron Butwin and Bob Pratt, both are Beatles at Metropolitan Stadium aficionados and Minnesota music insiders/historians
 
Your hosts: Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 116: Frights, Fun, and Family: Halloween at Mall of America

This Halloween, Mall of America is the ultimate destination for spooky fun! From the thrills of the all-new Twin Cities Fear Fest, featuring immersive haunts like Deadwater Hollow and Sanctum of Shadows, to family-friendly adventures in Nickelodeon Booniverse, there’s something for everyone. Plus, MOA is celebrating 75 years of Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF with a special pop-up experience, adding a meaningful twist to the festivities. Dive into sneak peeks of haunted attractions, exclusive add-on experiences, and unique partnerships—like the Elvira Pop-Up Bar and shop—that make Halloween at MOA unforgettable. Get ready for scares, surprises, and seasonal magic that appeal to families, teens, and thrill-seekers alike.
 
2:00       How Josh grew to love the haunted house business…as a child
5:30       All about Twin Cities Fear Fest, including Zombie GellyBall experience
6:30       All about Elvira and the Elvira Pop Up Bar at Fear Fest
8:15       Nickelodeon Booniverse – family friendly Halloween fun
9:00       A partnership with UNICEF: Kids Helping Kids
10:20    The annual tradition of Malloween continues at MOA
12:30    Economic impact on retail industry: by the numbers
14:10    Fear Fest: the haunted houses are where the scares happen
15:45    From E.T. to Toto to homemade costumes our guests wore as kids
18:00    A Halloween quiz to test your knowledge
 
For more information on Twin Cities Fear Fest visit: https://twincitiesfearfest.com/
For more information on Booniverse visit: https://nickelodeonuniverse.com/booniverse/
 
Guests: Josh Overturf, General Manager at Twin Cities Fear Fest and Kelsey Cunningham, MOA Marketing Manager
 
Your hosts: Jill Renslow
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 115: Retail Insights with Bruce Nustad

The economy, consumer budgets, and tariffs are all shaping today’s retail landscape. Bruce Nustad, President of the Minnesota Retailers Association, joins us to share how 50,000 retailers across Minnesota are navigating challenges, finding opportunities, and preparing for the future. From back-to-school shopping and fall fashion; from holiday prep to ever-evolving consumer habits, retail is always changing. Our guest is here to help us understand the state of retail.
 
3:00       The diverse retail marketplace across Minnesota
5:00       Entrepreneurism and retail innovation
6:00       The mix of local, small businesses and national brands at MOA
9:25       Back-to-School and fall shopping patterns – it’s all about the experience
15:30    The importance of guest service, merchandise mix and staffing
19:00    The shift in retail employment, the allure of flexibility, good teams, atmosphere
21:00    About the Minnesota Retailers Association and the tools and services available
 
For more information on the Minnesota Retailers Association visit: www.mnretail.org/
 
Guests: Bruce Nustad, President of the Minnesota Retailers Association
 
Your hosts: Jill Renslow with Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.