Growing Destinations

Michael (Mick) Meilahn is a third-generation farmer and nationally recognized glass artist whose immersive installation, Primordial Shift, is now on view at the Rochester Art Center in Rochester, Minnesota. Mick’s work is visually stunning: towering glass ears of corn, cast bronze leaves, surrounded by a video backdrop of fields, but it also asks deeper questions about genetic modification, the evolution of farming, and our relatio...

Rochester, Minnesota is home to a growing live music scene, and one of the voices helping shape its sound is Gina Marcucci. She's a founder and lead singer of the folk-rock band My Grandma's Cardigan. Known for their heartfelt lyrics, rich harmonies and a sound that's equal parts nostalgic and fresh, the band has become a standout in the local music community. In this episode, Gina shares how the band came together, ...

Today, we’re going on a journey with Houston Gibson, race organizer of The Great Race, a legendary cross-country rally featuring vintage vehicles and classic Americana. Since 1983, this time-speed-distance rally has brought drivers and spectators together for a one-of-a-kind road adventure.

This year, The Great Race made a stop in Rochester, Minnesota. In this episode, Houston discusses the event’s rich history, its lasting appeal, ...

This episode takes a closer look at the intersection of business leadership and community engagement with Ryan Parsons, President of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce in Rochester, Minnesota. Under Ryan's leadership, the chamber is helping local businesses and entrepreneurs navigate a rapidly changing landscape, one shaped by technology, workforce shifts and new ways of connecting. Ryan also shares about the success of Le...

This episode dives into the ever-evolving world of residential real estate. A market that impacts nearly everyone, whether you’re buying, selling, or just trying to understand what’s going on with home prices, interest rates, and inventory.

Minnesota realtors Kimm and Jesse Pastrana are a husband-and-wife team and the founders of Good Move Realty. As successful real estate professionals and entrepreneurs with decades of experience, ...

This episode explores the evolving landscape of local broadcasting with Stephanie Hedrick, Vice President and General Manager of KTTC-TV and Vice-Chair of the Minnesota Broadcasters Association, and Shannon Knoepke, Market President at Townsquare Media and a Board Member of the Association. 

Stephanie leads one of the region's most trusted TV newsrooms, and Shannon oversees a dynamic cluster of radio stations in southern Minnes...

The Med City Marathon in Rochester, Minnesota is one of the longest running marathons in the state. This race has become a signature event in the region, drawing runners, volunteers and spectators from across the Midwest and beyond. Evin Haukos, the Med City Marathon Race Director, has helped shaped the event's momentum and mission. He shares what inspired him to take on this role, what it takes to organize an event of this ma...

Today’s guest on the Growing Destinations podcast brings a thoughtful, research-driven lens to the tourism landscape. Xinyi Qian is Director of the University of Minnesota Tourism Center, a statewide resource focused on supporting communities through tourism education, research, and strategic planning.

Xinyi’s work sits at the intersection of tourism, economic development, and community vitality. Under her leadership, the Tourism Ce...

Greenspring Media is the team behind Minnesota Monthly, Midwest Design, custom content for destinations and a robust lineup of consumer events across the Twin Cities. Tammy Galvin, Publisher of Greenspring Media, has helped lead Greenspring's transformation into a multi-platform, content and experience company, blending print, digital and live events to engage audiences in meaningful ways. Tammy discusses her journey, how Gree...

Sarah Richardson, of Rochester, Minnesota, never expected to transform corporate gifting. As a graphic designer, she was focused on helping clients build their brands. But when the pandemic hit, a weekend idea to create an e-commerce platform for locally sourced Easter baskets turned into Gift Rochester, raising $6,000 for local businesses in one week. When Mayo Clinic sought employee recognition gifts, the project exploded, growin...

Join the laughter-filled journey of Miss Shannan Paul, a multi-talented comedian who swapped legal briefs for punchlines, transforming from an aspiring lawyer into a beloved performer and community advocate. From drafting demand letters to discovering her true passion for comedy, Miss Shannan shares an inspiring story of reinvention and resilience. In this engaging conversation, she explores how humor fosters connection and sparks ...

Curious about the life of a dedicated naturalist and the fascinating world of Minnesota-native wildlife? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Jaide Ryks, a passionate naturalist from Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo in Southeast Minnesota. Discover how Jaide turned her childhood love of nature into a meaningful career filled with animal care, education, and conservation efforts. Jaide shares her unique journey, from growing up a...

Have you ever wondered how a simple need can ignite a thriving, community-driven business? Meet Rochester, Minnesota entrepreneur Becky Montpetit, the visionary behind Rochester Local, La Crosse Local, and Twin Cities Mom. In this conversation, Becky shares her journey—from launching the Rochester MN Moms Blog to filling a gap in family-friendly resources in Rochester. What began as a passion project grew into a network of local pl...

What if the key to breaking through the relentless "sea of sameness" in advertising lies in the vibrant arts and culture of Minneapolis? Join us as we sit down with Rob Rankin, President and CEO of CCF Advertising, who brings over 35 years of industry experience to the table. Rob unravels how the creative energy of this city fuels innovative advertising strategies. We explore CCF's holistic approach to campaigns, foc...

Join us for an insightful conversation with Alison Zelms, City Administrator of Rochester, Minnesota. Discover how Rochester is transforming from a "big little city" to a "little big city," blending global ambitions with its beloved local charm. Learn how strategic partnerships and destination marketing are shaping Rochester's identity as a city where world-class medical innovation meets an exceptional qual...

In this episode of the Growing Destinations podcast, we spotlight the legacy and enduring appeal of Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, the nation’s largest professional dinner theatre complex. For over 50 years, Chanhassen has delighted audiences with memorable performances, including its current production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Joining us are three key leaders who drive its success: Michael Brindisi, Artistic Director and P...

Join us on a flavorful journey across Minnesota's culinary landscape with the iconic Sue Zelickson, a luminary in the state's food scene for over fifty years. Discover how Sue's groundbreaking efforts, like founding Women Who Really Cook and the Charlie Awards, have reshaped the Twin Cities culinary scene. From her grandmother's cherished recipes to her son's baking enthusiasm, Sue's personal stories a...