So Much More, A Mall of America® Podcast

Ep. 114: Interns, Insights and Getting Lost in the Mall [

This week, we hand the mic to the next generation of leaders, three of our summer interns! Meet Allison Siriouthay, Carter Kusilek, and Jacob Nelson, three recent University of Minnesota grads who spent their summer at Mall of America learning, laughing, and sometimes… getting lost in the sublevel.
 
From the unforgettable moment AJ and Big Justice brought the house down with We Bring the Boom, to the legendary Twiggy the waterskiing squirrel, to the chaos and thrill of Kids Choice Awards events, our interns saw it all. They share first-day jitters, the instant bond they formed as a team, the small joys of matcha-fueled afternoons (thanks, Jabba the Hutt), and the big lessons they’ll carry forward into their careers.
 
It’s a mix of humor, heart, and behind-the-scenes stories from the people who will shape the future of guest experience, PR, and events.
 
2:10       An introduction to three of our Summer 2025 Intern Class
4:45       All about the Kids Choice Awards events at MOA
5:45       ‘They Bring the Boom’ – A.J. and Big Justice and the entire family
7:15       Memories of the toughest day at Mall of America as an intern
15:45    The first time I felt trusted as an intern
18:00    Things the Mall could improve with the internship program
19:30    Understanding how fast-paced the Mall really is
22:00    How interns view the Mall of America culture (hint: fun!)
23:30    Advice for potential and future interns
24:30    Games that interns play – and win
 
Guests: Allison Siriouthay, Carter Kusilek, Jacob Nelson
 
Your hosts: Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 113: Fashion Ideas + Deals with Sara Rogers

Today’s episode is all about two things we can’t get enough of—fashion and deals. Shopping is always exciting at Mall of America, but there’s something extra satisfying about finding the perfect look at the perfect price. With so many discounts happening right now, it’s the ideal time to refresh your wardrobe without overspending.
 
With budgets tighter and savings top of mind, we’re diving into the best tips and tricks for looking stylish without breaking the bank. Joining us is our fashion and trend expert, Sara Rogers, who always knows how to put together a wardrobe that’s chic, timeless, and budget-friendly. Sara shares her insider strategies—from the power of the classic white button-up shirt, to knowing when to splurge or save, to making a shopping plan that really works.
 
We’ll also highlight current savings around MOA, including can’t-miss discounts from our tenants, special deals for everyday heroes, MOA Insiders rewards, and family-friendly perks like Toddler Tuesdays. Tune in for fashion inspiration, smart shopping advice, and plenty of ways to stretch your budget while keeping your look fresh—all right here at Mall of America.
 
3:30       Start with the classic white button up – the foundation for success
5:15       It’s all about the tuck
7:00       The monochromatic look – it’s timeless
9:30       Color-blocking feels unnatural but looks amazing
12:30    Tips for shopping on a budget
14:00    True perks of many brand loyalty programs
17:30    Castle collections, combining a classic ‘investment’ piece with trend products
19:30    Handbags for all seasons and styles
22:45    It’s time to up your shoe game – many at a great price point
 
Guests: Sara Rogers, MOA Trend + Fashion Expert
 
Your hosts: Jill Renslow with Sara ‘SJ’ Johnson
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 112: Dave St. PeterShaping the Story of Minnesota Baseball

Dave St. Peter, current Strategic Advisor and former President and CEO of the Minnesota Twins is a sports leader that has left an indelible mark on baseball in Minnesota and beyond.
Dave began his career with the Twins as an intern in 1990, rising through communications and business leadership roles before becoming President in 2002 and CEO in 2016. Under his guidance, the Twins have made multiple postseason appearances, hosted landmark events like the 2014 MLB All-Star Game, and spearheaded major initiatives including the “Go Twins, Go Green” sustainability program, the development of Target Field, and the expansion of the Twins Community Fund.
In this episode, Dave shares the role of innovation and community in professional sports, and the many ways the Minnesota Twins and Mall of America have teamed up over the years.
2:30       From Bismark, ND to Major League Sports: Dave’s professional journey
4:30       The importance of community outreach to the success of the Twins
9:30       Getting Target Field built and opened, the excitement and the challenges
12:45    The designed ‘grand reveal’ of Target Field
14:00    How the stadium is used beyond the scope of baseball
19:30    Memories of Harmon Killebrew and the famed ‘red chair’ at MOA
22:00    How leaders can grow, learn, look out for others and make real connections
23:45    What it takes to break into the sports industry
For information on MN Twins visit https://www.mlb.com/twins
For information on MN Twins Community Fund visit https://www.mlb.com/twins/community/fund
Guests: Dave St. Peter, Strategic Advisor to the Minnesota Twins; Twin Cities Business Hall of Fame (Class of 2025)
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.

Ep. 111: MOA Day at the Fair in 12 Minutes

Take a quick behind-the-scenes tour of Mall of America’s opening day fun at the Great Minnesota Get-Together! It’s our third year at the Fair, and we’re bringing the excitement with MOA bag giveaways, mini golf, awesome prizes, and special appearances from SpongeBob and friends. Join MOA team members Dan Jasper, Sara Johnson, Kelsey Cunningham, Meri Ryan, and Kylie Passe for 12 minutes of fair magic and insider fun!
This special 12-minute episode was recorded entirely on site at the Minnesota State Fair. Sometimes it’s okay to break from the usual format. Shorter episodes give you a quick hit of fun and let you experience the moment right along with us. Have Fair-Fantastic day!
Your hosts: MOA team members Daniel Jasper, Sara Johnson, Kelsey Cunningham, Meri Ryan, Kylie Passe
 
More information on Minnesota State Fair: www.mnstatefair.org
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 110: The Great Minnesota Get-Together: Food, Fun & Fair Stories

Step right up! In this episode, we wander through the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Great Minnesota Get-Together. From butter sculptures and bucket-sized cookies to unexpected traditions and hidden gems, the Minnesota State Fair is more than corn dogs and carnival rides, it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and pure joy.
 
Joining the conversation are two people who know the fair inside and out: Renee Alexander, CEO of the Minnesota State Fair, who helps steer the tradition into the future, and Kelsey Cunningham, longtime fan and dedicated fairgoer who shares her favorite rituals and insider tips. Together they bring both the behind-the-scenes and the on-the-ground perspectives of what makes the fair magical year after year.
 
2:00       Renee’s humble beginnings as a State Fair intern
3:30       A hi-wire walker, elephant trainer and midway manager walk into a…
5:15       Opening day excitement at the Fair
6:30       Kelsey shares her life-long passion for the Fair
7:45       What it takes to run the nation’s largest (and best) state fair
9:00       Voted the #1 Fair in the nation
14:45    The importance of continuously investing and improving the buildings
18:30    Bringing Mall of America to the State Fair, all the details
22:45    Tips for fairgoers beforehand and at the fair
 
 
Guests: Renee Alexander, CEO of the Minnesota State Fair; Kelsey Cunningham, Marketing Manager at Mall of America (and life-long fair fanatic)
 
More information on Minnesota State Fair: www.mnstatefair.org
Be sure to download the official Minnesota State Fair app
 
Hosts: Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 109: USA Wheelchair Softball World Series at Mall of America

From the crack of the bat to the roar of the crowd, the 2025 USA Wheelchair Softball World Series is about far more than the game: it’s about determination, teamwork, and the power of sport to bring people together.
 
This week, hear from Jeff Downes, Tournament Director with decades of leadership in adaptive sports; Brendan Downes, USA Team Captain whose passion for the game is matched only by his leadership on and off the field; and Ryan Trench, from Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, who helps run more than 20 adaptive sports programs each year.
 
They share personal stories, the excitement of competing at the highest level, and why hosting this world-class tournament at Mall of America is such a milestone. Plus, how you can be part of the celebration, whether cheering from the stands or stepping in as a volunteer.
 
2:00       How Jeff became in adaptive sports, and how that led to world travel adventures
5:00       A father’s tale – when Jeff realized the good that came from struggle
7:00       Brendan’s story – it started with neighbor friends and a kids love of sports
12:30    Courage Kenny’s support of the World Series tournament – featuring 300 athletes
17:45    Minnesota Twins Community Fund and sponsored clinic for kids
23:00    How to meet Brendan and the other wheelchair athletes at the event
 
Guests: Jeff Downes, Tournament Director and Organizer for 2025 USA Wheelchair Softball World Series; Brendan Downes, USA Team Captain and past president of National Wheelchair Softball Association; Ryan Trench, Supervisor of Adaptive Sports and Recreation Department at Courage Kenny
 
More information on USA Wheelchair Softball: www.wheelchairsoftball.org
More information on Courage Kenny: https://account.allinahealth.org/services/184  
On social media check: Minnesota Rolling Twins
 
Hosts: Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 108: Turning Pages, Changing Lives – Literacy, Learning Differences & Community Strengths

In this episode, we shine a light on literacy, learning differences, and how we can all help strengthen our communities. The Mall of America Foundation is proud to host two powerful events this weekend: Building a Culture of Reading—a resource-rich gathering for educators—and Turning Pages, Changing Lives—a free and fun celebration of literacy for children, families, and friends featuring award-winning authors.
 
Joining us is special guest Alissa Henriksen, Co-President and Founder of Grey Search + Strategy. Diagnosed with a learning difference as a child, Alissa shares how that challenge became a lifelong strength. Now a successful executive and entrepreneur, she offers practical advice for business leaders, parents, and individuals of all ages: how to lean into your superpower, lead with empathy, and unlock hidden potential.
 
1:30       Mall of America Community Foundation – it’s vision and purpose
5:00       Building a Culture of Reading, and Turning Pages Changing Lives events
8:45       Alissa’s tie to literacy – a story with challenges and successes
13:00    The courage to share your own story, hope for others
15:15    Literacy events represent the doors to opportunity
18:00    The keys to leaning into your ‘superpower’ even as an adult
21:15    The need to dig deeper in business: all about Grey Search + Strategy
23:00    Advice for the person dealing with learning differences
 
Guests: Alissa Henriksen, Co-President and Founder of Grey Search + Strategy; Sara Durhman, Corporate Social Responsibility Director at Mall of America
 
To find out more about Alissa and Grey Search + Strategy visit www.linkedin.com/in/alissahenriksen/ and www.grey-search.com/
To learn more about MOA events and foundation visit www.mallofamerica.com/events and www.moacommunityfoundation.org
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 107: Mission, Media & Minnesota: A Conversation with Steve and Mary Grove

Today’s episode brings you a conversation with two of Minnesota’s most inspiring voices in leadership, innovation, and community impact. Steve Grove, journalist-turned-tech leader-turned-public servant, is now CEO and Publisher of the Star Tribune and a newly published author. His wife, Mary Grove, is a nationally respected investor and passionate advocate for entrepreneurs—especially those in underserved communities.
 
Together, Steve and Mary open up about their shared values, their move to Minnesota, and the deep purpose that drives both their professional work and personal life. We dive into Steve’s book, the power of community, and what it means to write—and live—with intention. If you’re passionate about purpose, progress, and people, you won’t want to miss this one.
 
3:30       How Mary & Steve aligned both personally and professionally
4:30       Why Minnesota? Innovation, family, culture, and grounding
9:00       The two toughest – and most rewarding – stories to write
11:00    Why is community important?
15:30    The importance of change and growth in the news industry
18:00    News fatigue is real, and an opportunity to be addressed
19:30    Ruthless prioritization is needed in personal and professional life
20:30    Mall of America adventures with young children
23:30    Quick fun quiz on Minnesota
 
Guests: Steve Grove, CEO & Publisher of Minnesota Star Tribune and author; Mary Grove, Managing Partner at Bread & Butter Ventures
 
To find out more about Steve and get his book go to www.stevegrove.com
For more on the Minnesota Star Tribune go to www.startribune.com
For more on Bread & Butter Ventures go to www.breadandbutterventures.com
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 106: Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel: The Tail of a Legend

On this episode we have a guest like no other. She’s been on TV. She’s toured the country. She’s tiny, fluffy, and loves nuts. That’s right…it’s Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel! Her handlers Chuck and Toni share their stories as well.
 
What started as a simple rescue mission in Florida in 1978 turned into a full-blown, nutty legacy that continues to delight crowds of all ages. Learn how Twiggy became a worldwide sensation, her unexpected Minneapolis origins, and the sweet story of how one rescued squirrel sparked a movement rooted in joy, respect, and the belief that anything is possible.
 
You’ll hear how Twiggy became an MOA headliner, the surprising logistics of building a squirrel-sized water-ski pool inside a shopping mall, and yes—the question on everyone’s mind: How do you train a squirrel to water-ski?
 
Grab your life jacket, channel your inner rodent athlete, and join us for an episode filled with laughs, inspiration, and a whole lot of heart.
 
2:15       How Meri Ryan first pitched Twiggy as the MOA-favorite entertainer
3:30       The mathematical logistics behind a 5.5” deep pool inside the Mall
6:15       How Chuck’s dad rescued a squirrel decades ago and it led to today
8:15       What the squirrel’s love to eat the most
10:45    Twiggy’s Hollywood history and her real cred’
12:00    How do you train a squirrel to water-ski?
14:50    Treating all animals with love and respect
20:00    What might Twiggy say to her super fans?
22:30    Squirrel or Nah – a fun quick quiz for the guests
 
Guests: Twiggy the water-skiing squirrel; Chuck Best, Jr. and Toni Marie Tedesco parents/trainers of Twiggy
 
To find out more about Twiggy go to: https://twiggyshow.com/ and www.clubtwiggy.com.
You can also find Twiggy on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube @twiggyshow.
 
Hosts: Daniel Jasper with Meri Ryan, Senior Manager of Experiential + Events at Mall of America
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 105: Staci + Dez: Radio Beginnings to Celebrity Stories

On this episode of So Much More, hosts Jill Renslow and Sara Johnson sit down with two of KS95’s most beloved voices—Staci Matthews of Staci & Hutch and Dez from Crisco, Dez & Wes. From awkward on-air moments and unforgettable guests to breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry, Staci and Dez bring their signature humor, heart, and behind-the-scenes stories. Plus, hear their wildest Mall of America memories, favorite celebrity encounters, and where they’d eat, shop, and hide if locked inside the mall for 24 hours. Tune in for laughs, inspiration, and a peek behind the mic.
 
1:00       How Dez got started in radio – yes, it was love at first glance
3:30       From theater nerd to Kmart, Staci figured out radio was a better for her
6:00       Recalling those few ‘oops’ moments in their radio careers
10:15    What it’s like working together for more than two decades at KS95
12:25    How KS95, and radio personalities, make a difference in the community
15:30    Raising millions of dollars for charity right here at Mall of America
16:50    First experiences at the ‘Mega Mall’ and birthday party memories
20:45    Celebrity sightings and interactions at MOA, including a potential restraining order
25:00    Their non-radio ‘dream’ jobs
25:45    Rapid fire question round
 
Guests: Staci Matthews of Staci & Hutch, and Dez of Crisco, Dez & Wes from KS95
 
To find out more about Staci & Hutch click https://www.ks95.com/shows/staci-hutch/.
For find out more about Crisco, Dez & Wes click https://www.ks95.com/shows/crisco-dez-wes/.
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Sara Johnson
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.