So Much More, A Mall of America® Podcast

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

In this special two-part episode of So Much More, we explore Artful Arches, the vibrant immersive installation transforming Mall of America’s North Atrium into a space of creativity, connection, and exploration.
 
In Part One, listeners meet Katie Donahue and Katharina Hoerath of K-Works Studio, the visionary artists behind the installation. They share the story behind their creative journey, what inspired Artful Arches, and how imagination, design, and purpose came together to create this colorful large-scale experience.
 
In Part Two, the focus shifts to the nonprofit partners who helped shape the project’s broader impact. Kelli Foster Warder of Artistry Theater & Visual Arts, and Gina Brady of Fraser discuss the power of collaboration, accessibility, and community partnership in bringing this meaningful experience to life. Together, both conversations reveal how Artful Arches became more than an installation, it’s a celebration of art, inclusion, and the transformative power of community.
 
1:15       Part One: Welcoming Katie Donahue and Katharina Hoerath
6:00       Various art media used by K and Kat including architecture and discarded materials
7:30       Why Mall of America was the perfect fit for Artful Arches
9:15       Painting the picture of the art installation
14:40    Part Two: Welcoming Kelli Foster Warder and Gina Brady
15:10    All about Artistry and in Bloomington, Minn.
17:00    The mission and services of Fraser – an inclusive partnership
21:15    How Artful Arches may appeal to guests in a way most meaningful to them
 
Visit: https://www.mallofamerica.com/events/view/37410
Visit: https://artistrymn.org/
Visit: https://www.fraser.org/
Visit: https://kworksstudio.com/
 
Guests: Katie Donahue & Katharina Hoerath of K-Works Studio; Kelli Foster Warder, Artistry Theater & Visual Arts, and Gina Brady, Fraser
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Spring comes to life in this colorful and creative episode as we celebrate the return of Art in Bloom with the Minneapolis Institute of Art…affectionately known as Mia. This beloved annual tradition transforms world-class artwork into breathtaking floral interpretations, blending nature and creativity in ways that surprise and inspire.
 
We’re joined by Liz Short, President of The Friends Board of the Institute, and Amanda Luke, Chair of Art in Bloom, for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring this signature event to life, from selecting artwork to designing stunning floral pairings that captivate thousands of visitors each year.
 
We also explore Mia’s partnership with Mall of America, including a special activation that brought Art in Bloom from the museum to our Rotunda, a Toddler Tuesday activation and more. Whether you’re an art lover or simply looking for spring inspiration, this episode highlights how creative experiences can leave a lasting impression.
 
1:30       Background on Mia, it’s mission and the Art in Bloom exhibition
5:00       How the museum keeps more than 100,000 pieces of art intriguing and new
6:30       More than 40 years of Art in Bloom, a tradition of creativity, springtime and inspiration
13:30    The four-day show allows for fresh floral display, but Art in Bloom is a month-long celebration
16:20    Mia activations at Mall of America empowering wonder and imagination in kids
19:00    About The Friends of the Institute and how they support Mia and the community
23:00    Tips for visiting Mia and Art in Bloom, including five amazing workshops
 
Visit: https://new.artsmia.org/
 
Guests: Liz Short, President of the Friends of the Institute and Amanda Luke, Art in Bloom Chair – both representing the Minneapolis Institute of Art.
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Sara Johnson
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Step into a world where old-school style meets modern-day meaning. In this episode, we’re talking all things vintage as Totally Rad Vintage Fest returns to Mall of America on April 18–19.
 
We’re joined by Sarah Emerson, founder of Totally Rad Vintage Fest, to explore how a passion for retro fashion turned into one of the Midwest’s most anticipated shopping events. From ‘80s throwbacks to Y2K gems, Sarah shares what makes the fest such a unique experience, and why more people are embracing vintage not just for style, but for sustainability.
 
Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or brand new to secondhand shopping, this conversation is packed with insider tips, surprising finds, and a deeper look at how vintage culture is shaping today’s fashion trends. Plus, Sarah gives us a preview of what guests can expect this year, from curated vendors to one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find anywhere else.
 
1:45       The origins of Totally Rad Vintage Fest (TRVF) and its connection to Mall of America
5:00       What types of vendors participate in TRVF and what first timers can expect
8:45       The magic behind curating the perfect mix of vendors for TRVF
13:00    TRVF expanding to more than 40 shows this year – across the country
14:45    Strategies and tips for the rookie vintage shopper…and what surprises them
17:00    The ‘must have’ items sought out by many vintage shoppers
19:20    Some of the most unique items our guests have seen at TRVF
20:30    All the ‘deets’ on the TRVR show at Mall of America including shopping tips
23:45    The Quick Question Round on all things vintage for the group
 
Visit: https://totallyradvf.com/
Visit: https://mallofamerica.com/entertainment/events/all
 
Guests: Sarah Emerson, Owner of Totally Rad Vintage Fest; Maggie Boedigheimer and Madison Amland both Mall of America Team Members and Vintage Aficionados.
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.