Rural Ruckus

In this episode of Rural Ruckus, host John Monson sits down with Chris Giesen to explore the critical connection between energy infrastructure and rural economic development. From powering communities across the Midwest to supporting local businesses and municipalities, Chris shares insights into how electric cooperatives play a vital role in sustaining and growing rural economies.

In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Steve Larsen opens up about the realities of mental health, the weight of stigma, and the courage it takes to speak honestly about struggle. From moments of darkness to finding strength in vulnerability, this episode explores what it truly means to ask for help, offer support, and choose hope even when it feels out of reach.

In this special episode of Rural Ruckus Radio, host John Monson sits down for a heartfelt conversation with his grandson, Eli, to talk about life growing up in small-town Minnesota. From snowball fights in the winter to pool days and bike rides in the summer, Eli shares the simple adventures, friendships, and everyday moments that make childhood meaningful.

In this episode of Rural Ruckus Radio, host John Monson sits down with Ron Ziegler from the Community Economic Development Association (CEDA) to talk about the real work happening behind the scenes in small towns across the region. From economic strategy and local leadership to community partnerships and long-term growth, Ron shares how CEDA helps communities build sustainable futures and turn ideas into action.

In this episode of the Rural Ruckus Radio Podcast, host John Monson speaks with Leah Thiele about rural economic development, access to capital, and the challenges facing growing rural businesses. Leah shares insights into how strategic investment, innovative funding models, and community-focused solutions can help rural entrepreneurs scale their operations and remain competitive.

In this episode of the Rural Ruckus Radio Podcast, host John Monson speaks with Hillary Tweed about economic development, workforce challenges, and the critical role of housing in sustaining rural communities. Focusing on West Central Minnesota and the city of Benson, Hillary shares insights into how strategic housing initiatives, such as multi-phase development projects, are helping communities attract and retain a stable workforce.

In this episode of the Rural Ruckus Radio Podcast, host John Monson sits down with Courtney Swanson for an in-depth conversation on leadership, business growth, and navigating change in today’s agricultural landscape. Courtney shares insights from her professional experience, discussing how organizations can scale effectively, adapt to evolving challenges, and stay focused on long-term success.

In this episode, John Monson talks with Jase Wagner of Compeer Financial about the future of rural America. They discuss how data-driven decisions, community-focused investing, and long-term planning are helping small towns and agriculture thrive. From housing to infrastructure, this conversation highlights how smarter investments can build stronger rural communities.

In this episode of Rural Ruckus Radio, host John Monson sits down with Perry Aasness, Government Relations and Legislative Affairs leader at Compeer Financial. Together, they dive into the realities facing rural communities as critical legislation stalls — legislation that could support financing for hospitals, ambulance services, senior care facilities, and other essential infrastructure across rural America.Perry breaks down why this moment matters, the bipartisan momentum behind the effort, and why this isn’t a request for more federal spending — it’s simply asking for permission and authority to act.This conversation is honest, direct, and rooted in a shared belief: rural communities deserve access, dignity, and opportunity.If you care about the future of the places that feed and fuel America, this episode is worth your time.

This episode of Rural Ruckus features an in-depth conversation between host John Monson and distinguished agricultural broadcaster  Lynn Ketelsen of KOWZ.FM, whose career has spanned more than five decades across the Midwest. Ketelson reflects on his professional journey, including his early experiences in radio, his transition into agricultural reporting, and the significant relationships and events that shaped his work.

In this inspiring episode of Rural Ruckus Radio, host John Monson sits down with Benya Cross, a new voice at the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF). Together, they explore what it means to lead with purpose in rural Minnesota — from investing in local entrepreneurs and community projects to fostering the next generation of changemakers.Benya shares her journey into community development, the lessons that have shaped her leadership style, and why she believes collaboration is the heartbeat of rural success. This conversation reminds us that lasting impact starts with showing up, listening, and working together.

In this episode, host John Monson welcomes a very special guest—his son. Together they reflect on family, leadership, and the next generation of rural community builders. The conversation blends personal stories with professional insights, highlighting how rural values, community service, and generational continuity all shape the future of small-town vitality.

In this episode of Rural Ruckus Radio, John Monson sits down with Bob from Compeer Financial to talk about the unsung “workhorses” of rural communities—people and organizations quietly driving critical projects like rural health care, infrastructure, and economic development. From fixing local hospital roofs to connecting community leaders with funding partners, Bob explains how Compeer works behind the scenes to solve problems and keep rural communities thriving. This candid discussion highlights why small victories matter, why partnerships are essential, and why the most important change-makers often aren’t in the spotlight.

Host John Monson reconnects with Amy Schaefer of Compeer Financial for a deeper dive into the root needs of rural communities. From infrastructure and health care to housing and daycare, this conversation highlights what the data is saying—and what real-world partnerships must do to meet the moment. With a strong emphasis on practical, forward-thinking solutions, this episode lays the groundwork for future episodes tackling rural business and economic strategies.

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, John Monson sits down with his son, Tom Monson, a rural banker and community leader from Kasson, Minnesota. As Marketplace President of MTB Bank and an active local Chamber member, Tom shares his unique, people-first approach to rural banking and economic development. From pop-up banks at local events to innovative small-town solutions, Tom proves that leadership rooted in community and authenticity can have a real impact.

In this episode, host John Monson sits down with Tim Penny, President of SMIF, to explore how long-term, place-based philanthropy is reshaping southern Minnesota. From early childhood support to rural entrepreneurship and workforce development, SMIF’s programs are planting seeds of progress across communities. Tim shares the importance of partnership, local trust, and flexible funding that meets people where they are.

In this episode of Rural Ruckus, host John Monson welcomes Tim Penny, President & CEO of the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF). They dive into how SMIF has built long-term impact through early childhood programs, entrepreneurial investment, and small-town partnerships. With a focus on collaboration and staying power, Tim shares what it takes to build lasting trust in rural philanthropy.

In this episode of Rural Ruckus, John Monson sits down again with James Hanke of CEDA to explore how rural entrepreneurship can shape the future of small towns. From innovation labs to coaching cohorts, CEDA is helping local businesses thrive and creating a legacy of impact across Greater Minnesota. James shares how strategic investment in entrepreneurs uncovers the true potential of rural communities.

In this episode of Rural Ruckus, host John Monson is joined by James Hanke from Community Economic Development Associates (CEDA) to explore what it takes to bring lasting, strategic impact to small towns across the Midwest.From economic development strategies to community engagement and entrepreneurial growth, James shares stories from the field—offering practical insight into how rural towns can identify their assets and act with purpose. Whether it’s a town of 500 or 5,000, CEDA’s model helps communities create their own path to progress.John and James also discuss:The mission and structure of CEDAThe value of embedding development professionals within communitiesReal-world rural success stories driven by local leadershipHow partnerships with cities, counties, and nonprofits are shaping the futureAnd yes... a bit of Packers vs. Vikings banter🔑 Key Quotes:“What I love about CEDA is that we walk with communities—not ahead of them, not behind them.” – James Hanke“Rural development isn’t about telling people what to do. It’s about uncovering what they care about—and moving from there.” – James Hanke“It’s amazing what happens when small towns stop waiting and start acting.” – John Monson📌 Resources Mentioned:CEDA – Community Economic Development AssociatesContact James HankeRural Ruckus Podcast👀 Coming Up Next:Stay tuned for upcoming conversations with rural innovators, local leaders, and changemakers working to move small towns forward—with heart, strategy, and a little ruckus.

In Episode 2 of Rural Ruckus, host John Monson continues his insightful conversation with Paul Kohls of Compeer Financial, taking a deeper dive into the people-first philosophy that drives Compeer’s work in rural communities.The conversation moves from the abstract idea of “rural America” to a more focused and heartfelt look at rural communities—where real people live, work, dream, and lead. Paul shares how this distinction influences Compeer's strategy, especially through its Rural Vitality Initiative, which is designed to strengthen communities by fostering partnerships, enabling local investments, and giving back in meaningful ways.🛠️ Topics Covered:Why rural communities (not just rural America) are central to Compeer’s missionThe people-focused legacy behind Compeer’s work, and how personal relationships drive real impactThe limitations of the status quo in rural development—and how Compeer is challenging itThe three pillars of the Rural Vitality Initiative:Community facility financingNew capital models for rural businessesCorporate giving through the Fund for Rural AmericaThe emerging vision for a Rural America Capital TeamProgress on legislation to expand Farm Credit’s authority in rural developmentThe culture of passion and purpose that drives Compeer’s team and board🔑 Key Quotes:“Rural communities are about people. Rural America is a marketplace. And we’re here to serve people.” – John Monson“No one entity can solve these challenges alone. That’s why partnership is at the core of everything we do.” – Paul Kohls“Rural development is not just a project. It’s a movement—built on leadership, persistence, and collaboration.” – Paul Kohls

In this episode, host John Monson is joined by Paul Kohls of Compeer Financial to explore how Compeer is helping rural America thrive through innovation, investment, and intentional partnerships. Paul, who leads Compeer’s Rural Vitality Initiative, shares his perspective on what makes the organization different—and why supporting rural communities is central to their mission.Together, they discuss:The interconnectedness of agriculture and rural communitiesCompeer’s evolving mission and vision focused on rural prosperityHow the Rural Vitality Initiative supports housing, childcare, community facilities, and rural businessesThe role of philanthropy and donor-advised funds in supporting rural needsWhy partnerships with community banks, the USDA, and local governments are crucialThe concept that “rural development is a team sport”Compeer’s unique role as a convener rather than a lone voice in rural development

Rural Ruckus is a podcast hosted by John Monson that delves into the challenges, opportunities, and stories shaping rural America. With a deep passion for agriculture and small-town life, John explores what’s happening on Main Streets across the country—from housing and daycare to labor shortages and economic development. Each episode sparks thoughtful conversation about how rural communities can shift from competition to collaboration and thrive in a changing world. Tune in to better understand the heartbeat of rural America—and why it matters.