Often referred to as ‘the forgotten war’, the Vietnam War was an integral part of a challenging time in our nation’s history. Our guests, Brand Lindsay, Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, and Tom Lyons, USAF veteran and host of The Minnesota Military Radio Hour, discuss a special event hosted at Mall of America® to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the war. Veterans of this war, many of whom were drafted, did not return home to a welcome party. Lindsay and Lyon share the focus behind this three-day event and the important components that Vietnam War veterans, their families + the public will see. The event will include a resource fair for veterans, a special screening of "Welcome Home! A Tribute to Vietnam Veterans" at B+B Theatres, an oral history presentation + a smaller scale recreation of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial that is in Washington, D.C. The guests also stress the importance of supporting all veterans and their families. They share the history of the Beyond The Yellow Ribbon (BTYR) program and how it benefits impacted service members and their families. Mall of America has been a proud BTYR company for years. For more information on the special MDVA Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Commemoration visit: https://mallofamerica.com/events/view/33083.  Guests: Brad Lindsay, Commissioner at Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs and Tom Lyons, USAF Vietnam Veteran, author, host of The Minnesota Military Radio Hour, and Founder/Principal at Faelon Partners, Ltd. Host: Daniel Jasper Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Cirque du Soleil BAZZAR is performing under the Big Top at Mall of America®. Our guests are Artistic Director Johnny Kim, and Duo Trapeze Artist Xander Taylor. BAZZAR is currently staged outside the north entrance of Mall of America and has been showered with rave reviews. Johnny and Xander share their backgrounds and what life is like joining the circus. They can be on the road performing around the world for up to 45 weeks per year. They may be away from families, friends + home, but they find adventure and joy in exploring new cities, experiencing new cultures + meeting new people. Both have a long history of performing. In fact, Xander shares that prior to joining the circus he attended the “Hogwarts” for circus training in Montreal. Both guests are quick to share that the Big Top experience is magical – audience members feel as though they are part of the show because it is such an intimate setting. In the case of BAZZAR, the audience truly helps bring the story together in an exciting ending. BAZZAR invites audience members to discover a world where simple instruments and vocals create a dreamy music that blends with costumes inspired by different time periods. The array of breathtaking acts includes fire juggling, trapeze, rope artists, Indian pole, hair-suspension + tight wire performers.   Cirque du Soleil BAZZAR: https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/bazzar.   Guests: Johnny Kim, Artistic Director and Xander Taylor, Duo Trapeze Artist at Cirque du Soleil BAZZAR   Host: Daniel Jasper   Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Daniel Johnson and Ricardo Hernandez Espinoza have quite a bit in common. They are entrepreneurs; took a risk to open their own business; started small and have big dreams. And they both enjoy bringing smiles to their customers and helping create a better world. Following the unrest in 2020 and COVID, Mall of America created a 5,000 square foot space called Community Commons. It was a retail collective created to help support BIPOC owned business that had been hurt by these two events. It was a space for these businesses to establish themselves, gain exposure to millions of guests and rebuild their dreams. That’s where Daniel and Ricardo met – along with dozens of other impacted business owners and entrepreneurs. Community Commons was open for more than two years and helped dozens of small businesses. Many of these businesses have opened their own in-line spaces at Mall of America including Johnson, owner of LEVELS Fashion (level 3 near Nordstrom) and Hernandez Espinoza, owner of La Michoacana Purepecha (level 2 near the Rotunda.) Led in conversation by host Jill Renslow, both Daniel and Ricardo share stories of their professional journeys, what it means to be located at Mall of America + their dreams for future growth…and those dreams are big! Levels Fashion La Michoacana Purepecha  Guests: Daniel Johnson, owner of LEVELS Fashions, and Ricardo Hernandez Espinoza, owner of La Michoacana Purepecha. Host: Jill Renslow; Daniel Jasper Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Stephanie March knows about food and the local dining scene. It has been a significant part of her life and career. As Executive Editor of New Media + Food at Mpls. St. Paul Magazine, March has a reputation of telling a delightful story, especially when it comes to food. Along with host Jill Renslow and co-host Carrie Charleston, this episode is packed with stories about how food is the great connector.   In addition to her outstanding writing, March also co-hosts a live broadcast/podcast about cooking, travel, eating + food culture called The Weekly Dish. She has worked in the hospitality industry early in her career and was a restaurant consultant. March and Charleston share how they first connected in the restaurant scene and how their relationship has grown.   This episode also talks about the adventures of dining at Mall of America as well as the Minnesota State Fair and other Twin Cities locations. They look at what is hot and what’s missing in the dining scene. All three share how food has helped shape who they are today. And they talk about their can’t-miss dining experiences. March also talks about her newest project, Pickle by Steph March on Substack.   Pickle by Steph March: https://picklebystephmarch.substack.com/. MSP Magazine: https://mspmag.com/eat-and-drink/the-feed. Weekly Dish podcast: https://www.mytalk1071.com/shows/weekly-dish/. Mall of America dining: https://mallofamerica.com/foodanddrink.   Guests: Stephanie March, writer, editor, podcast host, and Executive Editor of New Media + Food at Mpls. St. Paul Magazine; Carrie Charleston, Vice President of Leasing at Mall of America   Host: Jill Renslow   Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Events experts Meri Ryan and Sierra Goerg share the storied history + behind-the-scenes tales of events at Mall of America. In 2023, the Mall hosted more than 370 events, and is set to surpass that mark in 2024. This team helps imagine, create + implement these amazing guest experiences. Like the entire events team, Meri and Sierra have super personas. Meri – known as the Pineapple Powerhouse – began as an events intern in 2012 and joined the team full time in 2015. Her early event memories include the One Direction autograph signing, the appearance of the Hunger Games cast + the 100th Birthday Celebration for the Girl Scouts – and all the cookies you could ever imagine! Sierra’s persona is the Sparking Superhero and her first claim to fame was being in the audience for One Direction including holding a sign which stated, “Harry, prom?” It didn’t work. But she did later land a spot on this world-class events team. Her favorite event memory was a pop-up performance by Ed Sheeran at the Lego Store. Meri is the mastermind behind bringing Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel to Mall of America. From Sumo wrestlers to drag shows the conversation spans the gamut. If you want to know the ins and outs of events at the world’s greatest mall you won’t want to miss this episode. To learn more about Mall of America events, visit our events page.  Guests: Meri Ryan, Senior Experiential Events Manager and Sierra Goerg, Experiential Events Specialist at Mall of America Hosts: Chris Grap, Daniel Jasper Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

“It’s an unpopular opinion, but I don’t like Chicago. I’ve seen the Bean, the museum, the aquarium. Don’t really like the pizza.” And away we go…. On this episode, KDWB radio host and social media personality, Falen Bonsett, tells it like it is! Falen shares stories and more than a few laughs with our audience. Joined by Chris Grap and Sara Johnson, the trio discuss a 12-plus year partnership between Falen and the Mall of America, as well as many of the celebrities and unique events that have taken place during that time. Along with other timely issues like finding your place in school, raising a family, how to live with social media, + of course, shopping. At the Mall, Falen has found a second home. And like so many other local fans of the Mall – she has her favorite route during her visits including where to park (insider tip – it’s the North surface lot), which stores she hits along the way + where to grab a good bite to eat. To cap off the conversation, Falen chimed in, “Mall of America has been the best partnership of my life!” To learn about Falen’s show visit KDWB's website. Guests: Falen Bonsett, Host of the Falen Colt show on 101.3 KDWB; Sara Johnson, Integrated Marketing Director at Mall of America Host: Chris Grap Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

This episode features Mall of America team members who are all working moms. With a wide range of work and parenting experience, they share insights on finding balance in their lives. They also openly discuss the challenges and joys of being a working parent. Jill Renslow, host of So Much More podcast, has a daughter who is a senior in high school and a son finishing his first year in college. Carrie Wright is Vice President of Human Resources and has two sons in their twenties. Natasha Betts, a 20-year MOA team member, is Specialty Attractions Manager has children ranging from 18 years old to toddler age. And Laura Utecht, Director of Communications, is our newest MOA team member and has a two-and-a-half-year-old son. On the topic of work-life balance the group readily agrees they don’t have the single answer. It is more about giving yourself grace, being kind to yourself and others + trying different approaches until you find the right fit. When asked about Mother’s Day traditions or memories, each of our four panelists share heart-warming and uplifting stories, from homemade gifts to riding the Log Chute in Nickelodeon Universe. And when asked to give advice to new or potential new moms the responses all revolved around embracing the magic of family and the beauty found in each day. To learn about Mother’s Day activities at Mall of America visit our website.  Guests: Carrie Wright, Vice President of Human Resources; Natasha Betts, Specialty Attractions Manager; Laura Utecht, Director of Communications all at Mall of America Host: Jill Renslow Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Patric Richardson knows laundry. He has a passion for it. You might even call him The Laundry Evangelist – everyone does! He has been featured on national media, was HGTV's The Laundry Guy + author and owner of Mona Williams boutique at Mall of America. His philosophy: I love helping people take care of personal belongings and making the world a cleaner and greener place. He first noticed his love for laundry at 2.5 years! He was hanging clothes with his grandmother. Next thing you know, Santa brought him a toy washing machine. It is still proudly displayed in his boutique. Patric studied apparel and textiles in college and his love of fashion – and laundry – grew even deeper. Ever wonder where the name Mona Williams came from? Want to know the toughest stain Patric had to deal with? Want tips on how to do you laundry properly? Interested in attending Laundry Camp? Want to know more about The Laundry Evangelist? Tune into this episode to find out So Much More. Guests: Patric Richardson, Laundry Evangelist | Host of The Laundry Guy Discovery+ – The Laundry Evangelist, author, owner of Mona Williams Hosts: Daniel Jasper, Chris Grap Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton are the hosts and co-CEOs of Omni Talk, a podcast and retail blog for retailers, by retailers.  They understand the world of retail better than anyone. Both had leadership roles with the Target Store of the Future program, are entrepreneurs + have boundless energy and enthusiasm. Their experience includes writing, podcast hosting, speaking engagements, online business management + more. Chris and Anne share their insights on the current state of retail – who is doing it well and who is missing the mark – and the future of the industry. They also share their passions + how they created a path to where they are today. Curious about their best career advice? Want to understand how A.I. will impact the world of retail? Ever wondered how you can follow your passion and make money at it? Want to know what the future of shopping malls will look like in ten years? Tune in to find the answers to these questions and more on this episode of So Much More! Guests: Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, Co-CEOs of Omni Talk Host: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Sheletta Brundidge is an Emmy award-winning comedian and talk show host, commentator, influencer + activist, and The Boss Lady at ShelettaMakesMeLaugh.com. Sheletta and her son, first-time author Andrew Brundidge, are our guests to talk about Autism Acceptance Month.   Sheletta’s three youngest children all have Autism. Her oldest, Andrew, does not. Together, they share their story of living together and helping their family thrive. Sheletta speaks openly about wanting the best possible experiences for her children. And Andrew discusses his newly published book, Andrew Does His Dance, along with his upcoming book tour to New York City.   Want to understand what Autism is and how it often presents in public? Curious about how and if you should help a parent? Curious about how Mall of America and other leading companies offer unique training and assistance regarding families with Autism?   Tune in to find the answers to these questions and more on this episode of So Much More!   Guests: Sheletta Brundidge, The Boss Lady at ShelettaMakesMeLaugh.com and Andrew Brundidge, author, and older brother; along with Sara Durhman, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at Mall of America.   Host: Daniel Jasper   Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Our guests are energy and efficiency experts! John Marshall is Regional Vice President at Xcel Energy. He and his team manage strategic relationships across three states in seven hundred communities. Also joining us is Rich Hoge, Chief Operating Officer at Mall of America, who leads the waste and recycling efforts at the Mall among a host of other areas. John has been coming to Mall of America as a guest since it first opened in 1992 while Rich has worked at the Mall since before it opened. They both have a love for community, efficiencies + Mall of America. Ever wondered how your purchase of an electric vehicle is planned for by energy companies and destinations? Want to know if it really is cheaper to leave lights on when you leave a room? Curious about the number of ladybugs the Mall releases on Earth Day? Want to know the easiest ways to save energy and money for your business? Tune in to find the answers to these questions and more on this episode of So Much More! Guests: John Marshall, Regional Vice President at Xcel Energy; and Rich Hoge, Chief Operating Officer at Mall of America Host: Daniel Jasper Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Perhaps best known for his bold illustrations that riff on everyday icons with stylized takes on all things Minnesota, from the BWCA to Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox, artist Adam Turman is a true state treasure. Adam works with major brands such as Mall of America, Surly Brewing + Pepsi, independent businesses + private collectors to make art part of our everyday. Born in California, Adam moved to Minnesota when he was 10 years old. But ask him where he’s from and he is quick to reply that he is Minnesotan. In his words, “Wherever you go through puberty, well that’s where you’re from.” Want to know what ‘deep local’ means to an artist? Wonder what it’s like to quit your day job and follow your passion? Can asking for free kegs of beer launch a career? Curious where the very best people watching is? Need advice for getting started? Adam covers his career, family, love of beer + advice for those starting to follow their passion. You can find more about Adam at www.adamturman.com.  Guest: Adam Turman, Fine Artists, Muralist, Illustrator & Owner at Adam Turman Artwork Co. Hosts: Daniel Jasper, Jill Renslow Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

On this episode, two of the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters, Julian ‘Zeus’ McClurkin and Joey ‘Hot Rod’ De La Rosa join us for a fun-filled conversation. Zeus is one of the most decorated Harlem Globetrotters, holding six Guiness World Records, and he’s performed mind-blowing trick shots including his favorite location…Mall of America! Hot Rod is a 7’1” Bronx native that has dreamed of being a Globetrotter since the day they visited his elementary school when he was only 9 years old.  Past Globetrotter visits to Mall of America featured record breaking, as well as successful trick shots from the Pepsi Orange Streak roller coaster, the zip line + the top of our Rotunda event space. Want to know how many games each Globetrotter plays each year? Have you ever heard of the 5th Quarter at a Globetrotter game? Wonder what the Magnus effect is? Or do you want to learn about the famous Smile Patrol? Want to know their dream ‘trick shot’ location? If you are curious and want to learn the answers, you won’t want to miss this episode. It is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face! Guest: Julian ‘Zeus’ McClurkin and Joey ‘Hot Rod’ De La Rosa with the Harlem Globetrotters Hosts: Daniel Jasper, Lauren Anderholm (guest co-host) Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

On this episode, hosts Grant Buntje and Chris Grap welcome their colleague and co-delight creator, Sara Johnson, the Integrated Marketing Director at Mall of America. Since the day it first opened in 1992, Mall of America has been surprising and delighting guests in unique ways and these team members help lead those efforts. Curious why and how the Mall displays massive works of art? Are you aware of a nightly surprise light show in Nickelodeon Universe? Did you wonder how Ed Sheeran (like other celebrities) does surprise appearances at the Mall? Or do you want to know how NOT to surprise guests on tax day? Tune into this episode to find out the answers to these questions and so much more! The group also discusses their favorite examples of MOA tenant surprises and experiences as well as other brands and attractions who shine (or whose shine has diminished a bit) while trying to delight their guests. Guest: Sara Johnson, Integrated Marketing Director at Mall of America Hosts: Grant Buntje, Chris Grap Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

What happens when inventive minds get together? They create a universe… specifically, Nickelodeon Universe at Mall of America. This week our hosts welcome special guests who were part of the team that brought NU to life, Ron Hines, Vice President of Experiences at Paramount and Brian Spielman, Vice President of Attractions at MOA.   We invite you to join us as we explore what it takes to create, refine, develop, reshape + and grow the vibrant world you know and love as Nickelodeon Universe.   Have you ever wondered how teams decided which new rides to install? What it’s like to collaborate directly with the creators of Avatar: The Last Airbender? What it feels like to see the faces on children of all ages when they enter a new theme park for the first time? Well, stay tuned and find out.   Mall of America has enjoyed a partnership with Paramount/Nickelodeon for more than 16 years. Host Jill Renslow was one of the key MOA team members who helped transition our theme park into an exciting new attraction. She and co-host Chris Grap, work closely with guests Hines and Spielman to continually move the theme park forward in new and exciting ways.   Guests: Ron Hines, Vice President Consumer Products and Experiences at Paramount; Brian Spielman, Vice President of Attractions at Mall of America   Hosts: Jill Renslow, Chris Grap   Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

The snow has melted. The birds are chirping. Spring Break is finally here! Our So Much More hosts are eager to share the options, stories + insider tips for a Spring Break adventure at Mall of America. Need pointers on how to plan a visit to MOA that fits within your budget? Curious what unique events or celebrities are visiting the mall? Want to find out how your family can finally get slimed? Stick around for all the details! Our four hosts are Mall of America experts who, alongside their MOA colleagues, have helped create amazing memories for families from around the world. And they can’t wait to share all the exciting news of what’s happening at the mall this Spring Break season. They dive into the new attractions and stores that have opened and share their favorite family Spring Break memories.  Hosts: Jill Renslow, Chris Grap, Grant Buntje, Daniel Jasper Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

It’s our pleasure to sit down with Matt “Nur-D” Allen, a fresh new Hip Hop artist and one of the fastest rising stars in Minnesota’s music scene. Nur-D has been sharing his energy infused musical performances at Mall of America® and beyond.   Want to know how he turned his love for comic books and pro wrestling into a music career? How he ended up crashing a Mall of America employee retreat and had everyone on their feet? Or what it is like to work with a Grammy Award winning Orchestra? Then this episode is for you! Growing up in Rosemount, MN and nurturing his love for theater and music, Nur-D burst onto the stage in 2018 and has since shared his boundary-crossing musical style with audiences around the globe. Never abandoning his roots, he has also been a featured performer at Mall of America.  His journey has been winding, interesting and full of stories. Join us to learn why Nur-D believes bringing people together through music is so important.  Guests: Matt “Nur-D” Allen, Musician, Artist, Performer Hosts: Chris Grap, Daniel Jasper Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Our guests are Kim Cassens and Joe Cassens, the mother and son team who brought the delicious flavors of Nothing Bundt Cakes to Mall of America and other locations. Want to know how a party gift can turn into a career? How a family can work together and enjoy it? How a bundt cake became a national obsession? This episode is for you!   Nothing Bundt Cakes started more than 25 years ago in Las Vegas by two friends who loved to bake and has grown to more than five hundred bakery locations across the country. Kim shares her journey to becoming a Nothing Bundt Cakes business owner, how she and her family have grown the business and what their future looks like. Both Kim and Joe – with no previous bundt cake experience – have helped to build the family business and share their stories. If you are a fan of entrepreneurs, realizing your dreams or simply of delicious desserts this podcast episode is for you!   Guests: Kim Cassens, Franchise Owner and Joe Cassens, Director of Operations at Nothing Bundt Cakes at Mall of America   Hosts: Jill Renslow, Grant Buntje   Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Our guests are Adam Kado and Hosie Thurmond, creators of Slice Brothers Pizza, a new Mall of America fan favorite! They brought the classic NY slice of pizza to Minnesota– and people are loving it! Kado and Thurmond are longtime friends whose individual journeys reshaped their initial dreams as business owners and redefined what dreams means to them as entrepreneurs. With varied professional backgrounds, they came together to fill a need in the Northeast Minneapolis neighborhood, which they identified as affordable, single sliced pizza for the busy single consumer. And they continue to grow. Want to know what is their most popular slice, how pickle pizza came to be, or what their dream flavor of pizza is? Curious about their current locations or their plans for growth? Join us as we dive into the story behind hometown favorite, Slice Brothers Pizza, how they adapt and respond to changes and how the power of community is often strengthened through food–one slice at a time. Guests: Adam Kado & Hosie Thurmond, Co-Founders and Owners of Slice Brothers Pizza  Hosts: Daniel Jasper Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Guests at Mall of America often see news stories on shopping, attractions, holidays and even celebrity events. The public gets to experience the Mall through these stories, but rarely gets to see behind the curtain and experience the story from the reporter's point of view. Today, we are honored to talk with Allison Kaplan and find out how she combined her love for journalism, fashion and business to tell the story of Mall of America and the greater Minnesota business community. Kaplan is a writer, editor, speaker, retail guru, entrepreneur and a leader in the Twin Cities business, journalism, and retail landscapes.  Kaplan shares her career journey, how she came to create a Mall of America ‘beat’ for a local newspaper, and how she has expanded her reach through podcasts, radio shows, online retail and so much more. Fashion remains a core focus in her life. When asked how she can accomplish so much, her response was first to laugh, quickly followed by advice to master the art of multi-tasking, efficiency and loving what you do. She talks about how her role as a journalist is to inspire, explain and connect with readers, viewers and listeners. Kaplan also points out that life is about storytelling which includes serious stories as well as those focused on life and energy. We invite you to join us as we take a deep dive into the retail industry, the local business community and the world of storytelling and journalism with Allison Kaplan. Guests: Allison Kaplan, Editor-in-Chief at Twin Cities Business Magazine Hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper Presented by the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.