People and Places and How We Use Spaces

Long before Jon Yanta became one of Minnesota’s most respected industrial brokers, he was just a kid from Eagan with grit — and a paper route. 

Jon credits his mother who gave him his greatest inheritance: a relentless work ethic and zero excuses. 

This discipline shaped every chapter of Jon's career. Listen to how his story is a lesson in hustle, loyalty, and surrounding yourself with good humans matters more than chasing the n...

For nearly four decades, Erik Condra’s identity was deeply tied to ice hockey.

Eventually playing in the NHL with teams like Ottawa, Tampa, and Dallas, Erik faced a choice familiar to many high-achievers: keep chasing the grind or refocus on what matters most — family and a sustainable second act.   

Now as the Director of Business Development at Schafer Richardson, hear how Erik transitioned into real estate during his playing years...

In a candid and inspiring conversation before a live audience at the Women in Real Estate and Development Retreat at Wild Rice Retreat in Bayfield, Wisconsin - real estate trailblazer Linda Donaldson shared her journey from a pioneering businesswoman to a celebrated force in affordable urban development. 

Her story reflects not only the evolution of a career, but the reshaping of Minneapolis's urban fabric - thanks to vision, t...

From childhood dreams to a respected voice in Minnesota media, Jason DeRusha’s career is a masterclass in staying authentic while adapting to a rapidly evolving landscape. With deep roots in storytelling, a relentless work ethic, and a passion for community engagement, DeRusha has built a legacy rooted in both integrity and innovation. 

With humor, honesty, and humility, Jason reflects on his time in television, his current role in ...

When it comes to the world of commercial real estate research, few embody the spirit of curiosity, creativity, and collaboration as deeply as Nicole Larson and Jesse Tollison of Colliers. 

In this wide-ranging podcast conversation, the two shared their unconventional paths to real estate, the evolving dynamics of the retail sector, and how data — when framed correctly — can become a powerful storytelling tool. 

Nicole Larson LinkedIn

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In this dynamic and faith-filled episode, Sheletta Brundidge—Emmy-winning broadcaster, entrepreneur, and founder of ShelettaMakesMeLaugh.com—shares her remarkable journey of walking in purpose, trusting God, and building a business rooted in boldness and belief. 

From launching her podcast network after years of being overlooked, to receiving a free RV and endorsement deal from a billionaire, Sheletta’s story is nothing short of mir...

In this unforgettable episode, Lisa sits down with commercial real estate legend Helen Brooks—a true pioneer who reshaped an industry and inspired generations of professionals.

At nearly 95, Helen reflects on her remarkable 40+ year career, breaking into commercial real estate at a time when women couldn’t even open their own bank accounts. 

With sharp wit, wisdom, and warmth, she shares how she built a reputation for integrity, focu...

Holly Masek is the Port Authority Administrator for the City of Bloomington, and her job is to explore the city’s bold transformation. 

Holly shares insights on economic development, small business support, creative placemaking, and Bloomington’s growing diversity. From revitalizing commercial spaces to attracting international businesses, she discusses how the city is evolving into a more walkable, vibrant community. 

Plus, we dive ...

Edie Weintraub is a real estate expert with a passion for creating vibrant, community-driven spaces. She shares her unconventional journey from studying biology and working as a dental assistant to discovering her love for real estate and urban development. 

Edie’s perspective on creating spaces where people truly want to gather is inspiring. Whether you're interested in real estate, entrepreneurship, or urban planning, this po...

Logan Swanson’s story is one of determination, resilience, and a deep desire for financial and personal freedom.

As the owner of Prime Land Exchange and host of The Land Fixer Podcast, Logan’s journey into land investing was not just about making money—it was about reclaiming control over his life.

Logan transformed his life through real estate investing. Learn how he scaled from $250 land deals to multi-acre de...

Colleen Carey was a young student when she was inspired by a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He introduced her to the idea of socially responsible development, stating that real estate is about "creating a terrarium for people to live in and as developers, there's a social responsibility to do that right," a philosophy that resonated deeply with her.

In 1993, Colleen noticed that suburbs w...

In 2005, Jerry Baack and MJ Crocker started Bridgewater Bank - a top performing bank nationwide and one of the largest located in Minnesota. 

Jerry and MJ explain how Bridgewater started, how it provides a higher level of service - especially to entrepreneurs, why they believe in pushing networks to increase NetWorth's, and the decision to go public.

Bridgewater Bank
Jerry Baack LinkedIn
MJ Crocker...

John Lorence is an Executive Vice President in CBRE's Occupier Advisory & Transaction Services group. He is responsible for creating and maintaining client relationships through real estate planning, negotiation, and transaction management.

In this episode, hear about John's first big break, how he feels the industry has changed from when he started, and how his international deals can have the potential to g...

With more and more people struggling to find an affordable place to live - Deidre Schmidt takes on that responsibility and combats it in a positive way.

Schmidt is the President and CEO of CommonBond Communities - an affordable housing developer with services that enhance the lives of residents of all ages throughout the Midwest...housing 13,000 residents a year.

She is responsible to create a path that is compel...

Ann Cazaban is the Executive Director of Southside Community Health Services. Southside provides high quality and affordable medical, dental, behavioral and vision services.

Southside was founded in 1971 and has been a staple in the Minneapolis community to lead a happy and productive life, built on the foundation of good health.

Southside embarked on a new project, expanding their services with a new clinic loca...

Brad Schafer is the Chairman and CEO of Schafer Richardson, which provides quality investment, development, construction, leasing and management services throughout the Midwest.

After his sister-in-law introduced him to the industry, Brad has amassed an impressive 38-year career.

Listen to Brad talk about his first deal and investment property, how Shafer Richardson came about, and how they are the true trendsett...

Jeremy Jacobs is an Executive Managing Director at Colliers, leading markets throughout the Midwest.

Jeremy comes from humble beginnings growing up in a small town in Virginia. After joining the ROTC in Middle School, his Army interest was immediately sparked. Being the first person in his family to attend college, he went to the University of Richmond, and then 9-11 happened.

Jeremy attended law school and was d...

Jillian Kalogerson has been handy from a young age. Learning everything from her dad, she renovated her own home while going to law school.

She learned that law school wasn't what she ultimately wanted, but building and construction was.

Fast forward to today, she is the Principal at RISE Collaborative Development - a full-service construction company specializing in meeting clients' needs during all pha...