Shining Light on Minnesota

This one has been sitting with us since the moment we hit stop on the recording and we just could not wait another second to tell you about it.Today on Shining Light on Minnesota, our host Karissa Dunham sat down with one of her actual oldest and dearest friends, Lisa Price. These two go back over 35 years, probably closer to 40 honestly, and watching them just talk on Zoom like the lifelong friends they are was something really special to witness.Lisa is originally from Rochester, Minnesota and is now out in Colorado building a beautiful new chapter of her life. And her story? It stopped Karissa in her tracks. Not because it is easy to hear, but because it is so incredibly real and so incredibly brave.Lisa has walked through some of the heaviest things a person can carry. Alcoholism. Eating disorders. Divorce. The kind of storms that can swallow a person whole. And through every single one of them, she kept going. Her daughter, who is absolutely gorgeous just like her mom, was her anchor. That love is woven into every part of who Lisa is and it comes through in every word she speaks.What makes Lisa's story even more beautiful is the village that never left her side. She has the most incredible family. Loving, steady parents and three big brothers and their families who have been in her corner through every hard season, cheering her on, holding her up, and reminding her who she is. That kind of love is rare and it is powerful and honestly it will make you tear up a little. The whole family is just amazing.But here is what really gets us. Where Lisa is right now. She is on this gorgeous, hard-earned journey of self discovery and she is finally, truly learning to love herself. And if you have ever doubted whether that kind of healing is possible, this conversation is going to answer that question for you in the most moving way.This episode is for anyone who has ever faced something that felt impossible and kept going anyway. For anyone who has ever felt lost and wondered if they would find their way back. For anyone who just needs to hear that it is possible to come out the other side softer, stronger, and more yourself than ever before.There is a nugget in this one for everyone. We promise you that.Yes it was recorded on Zoom but please do not let that stop you for even one second because you absolutely have to hear this conversation. Karissa will drop the link as soon as it is live this week. Clear your schedule. Grab your coffee. Get your tissues ready.This is Shining Light on Minnesota doing exactly what it was made to do. 🌟

We went LIVE today and it was SO good! 🎙✨ You finally got to meet Hilariia and Trenton, two of our amazing teammates at Sun Control of Minnesota AND the talented content creators behind the scenes here at Shining Light on Minnesota! 🙌 We had the best time letting you get to know them a little better! From where they have been and what they have done in the past to some exciting things they have going on now, plus a little fun Q&A mixed in! These two are seriously so fun and we are lucky to have them on our team! 💛 If you missed it do not worry, stay tuned because the content is coming! 👀

In this episode of Shining Light on Minnesota, Karissa sits down with Felix Kyei Asare, host of the Superhuman Mindset podcast, to talk about what drives his purpose.Felix shares his passion for cybersecurity and how his love for working on and breaking computers turned into a mission to protect others. He explains how cybersecurity connects to his everyday lifestyle and mindset.He also dives into his journey with bodybuilding, how he got started, and the discipline behind it, along with the inspiration behind his podcast, focused on “ordinary people who make superhuman decisions.”The conversation highlights fatherhood as Felix opens up about his two children and the powerful moment of holding his son for the first time. He also shares his future projects and his passion for helping the next person who needs it.Listen now to hear how Felix blends purpose, discipline, and impact into everything he does.

In this episode of Shining Lights on Minnesota, Karissa sits down with Wymond Wong, owner of Twin City Heating, Air, and Electric, to talk about his journey from growing up in a family-owned Chinese restaurant to building a career in the trades.Wymond shares how his upbringing shaped his work ethic and values, along with the lessons he’s learned throughout his career starting as an apprentice and embracing the mindset that “there is always a resource.” He dives into how humility plays a key role in leadership and why staying open to learning has been critical to his growth.The conversation also explores fatherhood and personal development, as Wymond opens up about raising his children, the importance of being a strong role model, and the things he wishes he had known before becoming a parent. He emphasizes showing up as both a supporter and a positive representation for his kids as they navigate life.Wymond also gets real about the challenges he’s faced in business, including a major setback involving a business partner who betrayed his trust. He shares how he rebuilt from that experience, the mental persistence it required, and how those tough moments shaped his resilience today.Listen now to hear a powerful story of perseverance, humility, and growth and how Wymond leads Twin City Heating, Air, and Electric through both success and adversity.

In this episode of Shining Lights on Minnesota, Karissa sits down with Cole Nelson of Maverick Construction to talk about his journey from working in school district construction in Rochester to becoming Director of Buildings in Northfield, and ultimately taking over Maverick Construction.Cole shares how a turning point in life led him back to his roots in construction and into ownership, along with the mindset that’s driving him today discipline. He dives into how his team is focused on hitting goals, staying on budget, and delivering strong customer experiences, and why he’s so proud of their ability to execute.The conversation also explores leadership, company culture, and the importance of connection both within his team and at home. Cole opens up about being intentional with family, creating boundaries between work and personal life, and why he encourages his team to prioritize family above all else.Plus, we touch on his passion projects, including Legacy Skis and his podcast American Dream.“When life happens, we can help.”Listen now and hear how discipline, leadership, and family shape the way Cole leads his business.

Today’s episode of Shining Light on Minnesota just dropped and this one is all about perspective.Karissa Dunham sat down with Noah Bergland from Owl Roofing to talk about how he found his way into the industry and how that path shaped the way he works with customers today.We got into his design perspective, how he helps homeowners make confident decisions, and what it really looks like to guide someone through the roofing process with honesty and care. It’s not just about selling a roof, it’s about doing what’s best for the home.“We give a hoot.”Go listen and tell me what part hit home for you ✨

Today’s episode of Shining Light on Minnesota just dropped and wow… this one is special.Our host Karissa Dunham sat down with Abby Oxborough from Sugar Lake Lodge and we went deep.We talked about what it’s really like to follow in her dad’s footsteps and carry on a second generation legacy. The pressure. The pride. The responsibility. Stepping into the role of boss while honoring the foundation that was built before you.She shared what it was like growing up at the resort and now raising her own kids the same way. Resort life becomes family life. Work life balance looks different when it’s all intertwined.We also talked about their family’s history with stuttering and how that shaped their resilience, leadership, and what truly makes them stand out. It’s about heart. It’s about grit. It’s about showing up anyway.Abby is intentional. Personal. The kind of leader who knows your name and your dog’s name. That’s culture. That’s connection. That’s how you build teams that last.Legacy. Leadership. Family. Intention.Go listen and tell me what part hit home for you ✨

✨ Just dropped today on Shining Light on Minnesota ✨On this episode of Shining Light on Minnesota, host Karissa Dunham sits down with Miranda Johnson, owner of Red Wing Shoes, for a real, honest, and inspiring conversation.This one shines the light squarely on Miranda. From her roots in a female-dominated field of speech pathology to stepping confidently into a mostly male-dominated industry, she shares what it truly looks like to lead, learn, and grow into ownership. Shoes, tanning cattle, mom life, and everything in between Miranda doesn’t sugarcoat the journey.We talk about the pride behind Red Wing craftsmanship, seeing the full process locally from start to finish, how she got involved form life in New York to you had me at the shoes, and what that legacy really means. We also dive into the why behind ownership: showing up for your kids, watching your team thrive, and building a business alongside your spouse as true partners in life and work.This episode is packed with grit, perspective, and heart—and it’s available today.Go give it a listen and let Miranda’s story light the way.

Today’s drop on Shining Light on Minnesota goes deep.Our host Karissa Dunham sat down with Mark D. Williams, founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc and host of The Curious Builder.We unpacked the heart behind his work, especially the Mysa Hus project. Not just a home. A feeling. Mysa is about comfort, presence, intentional living. Slowing down enough to design spaces that actually support the way you want to live. Every detail thought through. Every line with purpose.Mark does not just build homes. He builds environments that reflect values. Health. Wellness. Function. Flow. He thinks about light, materials, energy, how a space makes you feel when you walk in. That level of intention shows up in everything he touches.He talks about being delusionally optimistic and choosing growth, even when it is uncomfortable. That mindset has shaped his business, his leadership, and his podcast. He asks better questions. He challenges the norm. He is constantly refining both his craft and himself.We also talked about how podcasting changed him. How long form conversation helped him slow down, listen deeper, and find more meaning in his work and life.This one is layered. Business. Personal growth. Residential building done differently.And yes… he was a fan of Sunny. Our Sun Control of Minnesota mascot as well! Can't wait to see if he comes up with one! Go listen. It is live.

✨ Shining a Light on Minnesota ✨Our host Karissa Dunham just sat down with Jordan Davies of Complete Performance LLC in the Blaine area, and the episode dropped today 🎙️💪We had an inspiring and real conversation about nutrition, work-life balance, being a mom, and what it truly means to stay healthy and strong at any age. Jordan shared how Complete Performance is built around meeting people where they are, focusing on long-term success and sustainable habits rather than quick fixes.At Complete Performance, Jordan leads the adult programs, helping men and women build strength, confidence, and accountability through lifting, functional training, and nutrition guidance. Her husband runs the kids programs, helping young athletes develop strong movement patterns, confidence, and a positive relationship with fitness from an early age.We also got a behind-the-scenes look at the facility and the equipment used to train safely and effectively. Jordan opened up about her personal journey, what inspired her to step into the fitness world, and how she grew into the boss lady she is today by building a business rooted in community and empowerment.If you’re looking for motivation, education, or a reminder that your health is worth investing in, this episode is for you. She will hold YOU accountable.✨ Keep Shining a Light on Minnesota

What does legacy really mean? It’s more than championships, records, or final scores. It’s the people you impact, the relationships you build, and the standard you leave behind.In this episode of Shining Light on Minnesota, our host Karissa Dunham sits down with Winona State Football Head Coach Brian Curtin for a deep and meaningful conversation about leadership, mentorship, and carrying forward a legacy that was built long before him.Coach Curtin’s story is uniquely powerful because Winona State isn’t just where he coaches; it’s where he grew up as a leader. A former Warrior himself, Brian shares his journey from student-athlete to head coach, the mentors who shaped him, and how the culture of WSU football continues to influence the way he leads today.The conversation honors the impact of legendary Head Coach Tom Sawyer, whose vision and commitment to doing things the right way built the foundation of the program, along with longtime Athletic Director Larry Holstad and former WSU President Darrell Krueger, both of whom played key roles in shaping the program and Brian’s leadership path.Together, Karissa and Coach Curtin talk about what it means to honor the past while leading in the present covering everything from team culture and accountability to health and wellness, to balancing life as a coach, father, and husband. This episode goes beyond football and gets to the heart of leadership and impact off the field.And because Winona State is also Karissa’s alma mater (where she played golf), a little college pride and golf talk might sneak in too ⛳️🎧 The episode just dropped — take a listen now. Once a Warrior, always a Warrior. 🏈

Shining Light on Minnesota has a special episode you won’t want to miss. Our host Karissa Dunham sits down with our producer John Brickweg one last time as he takes the next step in his journey. From behind the scenes stories to plenty of laughs this final farewell is full of heart. Tune in and help us send John off in true Shining Light fashion. Keep shining light John!

Today our host Karissa Dunham had the honor of sitting down via Zoom with Luke Mickelson, founder of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, for an inspiring and powerful conversation.Luke shared his remarkable journey from being a farm boy in Idaho, to coaching to following a calling that started with a simple Christmas project with his family, building beds so that no child would have to sleep on the floor. What began as a small act of service turned into a movement.Sleep in Heavenly Peace exists for one clear mission: no kid sleeps on the floor in our town. Through volunteers, donors, and incredible community support, they build and deliver beds to children in need. What started locally has now grown to chapters in over 47 states and even other countries, changing lives one bed at a time.Luke’s story is a powerful reminder that when purpose meets action, impact follows. A simple idea, fueled by faith, family, and service, can grow into something far bigger than you ever imagined.We are grateful for leaders like Luke who shine a light through service and show what is possible when you say yes to helping others.KEEP SHINING LIGHT on Minnesota and beyond.

Our host Karissa Dunham sat down with Dr.Peter Maring of The Training Room | Chiropractic & Sports Medicine to record an upcoming episode of the Shining Light on Minnesota Podcast.When most people think of chiropractic care, they think quick adjustments. But performance-focused chiropractic care is next level. Dr. Maring brings elite experience from working with professional athletes across the NFL, MLS, MLB, and NHL, and now delivers that same level of care in Blaine, MN.At The Training Room, appointments are a full hour, focused on movement, performance, and long-term results. Using VALD testing, Peter gathers real-time data, breaks the body down by quadrants, and builds custom treatment plans. As a golfer, seeing how each quadrant impacts my swing and efficiency was a game changer. A better swing truly starts with better movement.Dr. Maring works with all ages and all levels, from youth and everyday active individuals to weekend warriors and professional athletes. His approach combines hands-on care, dry needling, soft tissue work, recovery tools, and sport-specific rehab to help people move better, recover faster, and stay injury-free.

Our host Karissa Dunham sat down with Kirk White from Prevail Claims LLC out of Blaine, Minnesota on this episode.They talked storm damage and insurance claims and how Prevail Claims works directly with contractors to navigate the insurance process after a loss. From inspections to documentation, their team advocates for homeowners to make sure nothing is overlooked and claims are handled the right way during an already stressful time.The conversation also took a deep dive into golf. Kirk shared his competitive golf background and the discipline and mindset it takes to compete at a high level. From course management to mental toughness, those same lessons translate into business, leadership, and everyday life.A big part of the discussion focused on health and wellness. Eating right, working out, fueling your body with the right amount of food, and understanding what works best for your body all matter. Kirk talked about how proper nutrition, training, and recovery directly impact performance on the course and in life. When you take care of your body, everything else follows.Golf, health, and wellness all tie together, and it was a great reminder of how showing up prepared makes a difference.

Host Karissa Dunham sat down with Justin Grammens today to record a great episode of Shining Light on Minnesota all about real world AI and the power of applied AI when it’s put into action.Justin runs Lab651 | Custom Software Development & Process a full service software and product development company that helps businesses build software, mobile apps, cloud systems, IoT products and more.He’s also the founder of Recursive Awesome , a consulting firm that helps companies bring AI, automation and smart data driven tools into their operations.Justin co founded Applied AI and through that group along with his teaching role at the University of St. Thomas , he’s helping people understand what AI can actually do and how to use it in practical ways.In our conversation we dug into what applied AI really means. We talked about how Lab651 turns ideas into real software and products and how Recursive Awesome helps leaders bring AI into their businesses with purpose.Such a smart and insightful conversation and I can’t wait for you all to hear it.

Today, an incredible episode of Shining Light on Minnesota with Karissa Dunham sitting down with Kaycee Stanley from The Reel Hope Project. Their mission is powerful. There’s nothing more meaningful than a story, and they’re living that every day.They create high quality, child centered videos of kids in foster care who are waiting to be adopted. They’re the only nonprofit in the nation focused solely on this work, and the impact is unreal.We also had MacKenzie Juliane , Kimberly Bass , and Jeremy Bardwell hop in and share their experiences, which brought even more heart to the conversation.So much purpose. So much passion. So much more to come. Stay tuned for this one.

Today’s recording of Shining Light on Minnesota had our host Karissa Dunham sitting down with Paul N. Long, MBA for a powerful conversation on the medical world. We talked about patient experience, advancing technology, provider burnout, adoption, caring for aging parents and the real challenges shaping healthcare today.Paul is a truly caring and genuine individual with a strong background in the healthcare industry. He is dedicated to improving the medical world for the needs of the community and brings insight, compassion and real leadership. He is also currently looking for his next role where he can continue making an impact.Stay tuned. This episode is a must for anyone in the medical field and anyone invested in the future of patient care.

What an amazing day on Shining Light on Minnesota as we sat down with , Lisa Lounsbury, MA, LMFT, ATR-BC from Art Lab Rx and this conversation was everything inspiring uplifting and full of heart. We dove into the power of art therapy and how Lisa is helping people heal grow and reconnect through creativity. She opened up and shared some of her own personal stories that shaped her passion for this work and each one was so moving.We also talked about the incredible transformation of her building and how she turned it into a space filled with warmth creativity and purpose It is a place where people can walk in and feel supported and inspired!

On this episode of Shining Light on Minnesota, we spotlight MagicBrad, a Minnesota-born creative who has spent his life blending imagination with entrepreneurship. Our mission is to highlight the people shaping our state in meaningful ways, and MagicBrad’s story fits that mission perfectly.Brad “MagicBrad” Gudim discovered magic at just four years old, sparking a fascination with creativity and possibility that carried into adulthood. From childhood garage theaters to a long career in magic, marketing, and event production, he has partnered with major brands, produced expos, and built a reputation for turning ideas into impact.In our conversation, MagicBrad shares how curiosity, collaboration, and playful thinking have guided his journey. He talks about making a living living life and why embracing both reality and wonder can open unexpected doors. It’s an inspiring look at a Minnesotan who continues to reinvent what is possible.

✨ Today on Shining Light on Minnesota we had the absolute joy of sitting down with the incredible Gretchen Mildon the heart behind Boomcakes Bakery! ✨Our host Karissa Dunham dove into all things Boomcakes from Gretchen’s insanely popular sourdough bread and focaccia to her festive Christmas cookies that Santa himself would line up for. But this conversation went far deeper than baked goods.Gretchen opened up about her journey her faith and how Boomcakes grew from a simple love for baking into a full on community movement. She talked about how she and her husband first met while working for the Roseville Fire Department Minnesota and how they have continued building their life and businesses side by side. Not only does she run Boomcakes but she also helps with payroll for her husband’s trailer company showing what true teamwork and partnership looks like.We also talked about her passion for inspiring others to get back in the kitchen. Gretchen has been pouring her heart into social media to help people slow down create and bring more homemade love into their homes. Whether it is sourdough cookies or encouragement she is using Boomcakes to spread light in every direction.This warm real and inspiring episode is just in time for Thanksgiving. #ShiningLightOnMinnesota #BoomCakesBakery #MinnesotaBusinesses #FaithAndCommunity #LocalLove #WomenInBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BakingWithHeart #SupportLocalMN

On this recording of Shining Light on Minnesota our host Karissa Dunham had the honor of sitting down over Zoom with LPGA legend Brittany Lincicome. With two major championships, eight LPGA Tour wins, and one of the longest drives in the history of the women’s game, Brittany has made an incredible impact on golf and still is! She shared reflections on nearly 20 years on tour, stepping back from full time competition, and the moments that meant the most to her. One of the highlights was hearing about her final round on tour and how meaningful it was to have her dad carry her bag that last day. We also talked about life beyond golf, her love for fishing, and the balance of career and family.Brittany also made history as the sixth woman to compete in a PGA Tour event, breaking barriers and inspiring players everywhere. And she is still waiting for an invite to play in the Grant Thornton Invitational hint hint.It was truly a privilege for Karissa to spend time with someone who has shaped the sport in such a powerful way. Brittany is genuinely one of her favorite people in the game. A true Legend ⛳️🔥

Allan Farrell from Stroll The Lakes magazine is here with Karissa to discuss the magazine, business , and of course life!Networking and building community have been huge for Allan in building this magazine. He shares about the joys and the struggles.Originally from the South, Allan also discusses what it has been like to transition to the Midwest. enjoy the episode and thanks for listening!

Stuart Andrews joins Karissa for conversation this week on AI governance and compliance.Stuart is a AI Governance & Compliance Architect and works to Future-Proof Twin Cities SMEs with Responsible AI Policy.This conversation started as a regular network discussion, but then it was so good that we decided that we should start recording it!Enjoy and thanks for listening!

Karissa went across states on the inter-webs to have this powerful conversation with Ryan Botner.Who is Ryan? For over 17 years, Ryan Botner has been positively impacting the lives of thousands of people through his motivational speaking, HIGH-Level Sales, and business consulting. A true entrepreneur, Ryan has started and operated numerous businesses producing TENS of millions of dollars in revenue. Now his life purpose is to spread his message to the world.Ryan and Karissa have a powerful conversation about the past spanning business, success, failure, addiction, brokenness, and finally healing + growth.

Karissa Dunham sat down with Seran Otterson from Rumi Wall Design.From painting tiles to creating and painting custom murals to being featured in Europe's most popular tile magazine. Seran’s journey is full of depth, culture, and creativity. This conversation goes far beyond the paint and into the heart of her story — her openness, her travels, her love for art, and the passion she shares through everything she creates.From the wealth of knowledge she’s gathered across countries to the heart she brings to Minnesota, this episode is filled with insight, inspiration, and connection that will keep you listening until the very end.One of our favorite takeaways is that sometimes it’s the people you don’t agree with who help you grow the most. When you take the time to have those open conversations and truly understand where someone is coming from, you realize you can still care deeply even when you see things differently.🎧 Tune in to this week’s episode of Shining Light on Minnesota and let Seran’s journey remind you how much beauty there is in following your passion and learning from every person you meet along the way.#ShiningLightOnMinnesota #PodcastDrop #MinnesotaCreatives #RumiWalls #ArtInspiration #Community #LocalStories #Growth #Connection

💡This week we decided to switch things up and give the opportunity for our listeners to meet our team! Karissa is joined by the marketing team, John Brickweg, who produces Shining Light on Minnesota.They discuss backgrounds, origins, and experiences. 🎨 Finally, two announcements were made at the end of the episode! Listen to learn more.Enjoy!

Today, Karissa Dunham sat down with Emmanuel Wheagar — author of Modern Servant Leader and a Minneapolis business owner who truly lives out what it means to lead with purpose.In this episode, Emmanuel shares his inspiring journey and what has shaped him into the leader he is today — from the influence of faith and family to the lessons learned through humility, mentoring others, and giving back to his community.Together, they dive into what true leadership looks like: serving first, leading with integrity, setting intentional goals, and lifting others up along the way. Emmanuel’s insights are a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about position or recognition — it’s about impact and heart.This conversation is full of wisdom, authenticity, and inspiration for anyone striving to grow personally and professionally.

Host Karissa Dunham sat down with Lee Dorholt from Fluid Interiors for a conversation that goes way beyond business. From Shriners Children’s work worldwide, to first responders and veterans, to the simple power of picking up the phone and saying, “I care”—this episode is full of wisdom, kindness, and lessons on making a real difference. 🌎💡Take a listen—you’ll walk away inspired and maybe even ready to make someone’s day better.#ShiningLightOnMinnesota #Leadership #Inspiration #Kindness #MinnesotaVoices #MakingADifference

This week, Host Karissa Dunham had the privilege of sitting down with Trisha Miller, owner of Ah-sirt  Body.Beauty.Balance in Zumbrota, MN. We covered so much during our conversation, from health and wellness to the ups and downs of small business ownership, the importance of really listening to your body, and how finding the right instruction can completely change your results. Trisha also shared the value of Pilates, the role of proper technique, and how personal training can make a real difference. 🙌We even dove into women in business, hair and nail salons, farming, and the journey of balancing it all. So many life lessons came forward from struggles and setbacks to successes, and the power of staying true to yourself.And yes… I even got to try the reformer 👀. Trisha gave me a full tour of her beautiful studio space, equipment, and even shared how she offers rentals or will come to you. Such an inspiring episode with so much to take away truly grateful for the chance to shine a light on Trisha and her story! #ShiningLightOnMinnesota #HealthAndWellness #WomenInBusiness #Pilates #MinnesotaSmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #MindBodyBalance #SmallBusinessSpotlight #CommunityStrength #WellnessJourney

This week on Shining Light on Minnesota we had the absolute honor of sitting down with Kelly Williamson and Lisa Bailey—two powerhouse executives who completely blew me away with their knowledge, strength, and perspective. 🙌We dove into:🔹 Marketing & sales roles🔹 The challenges of today’s tough job market🔹 Their long careers of success and how that experience shapes their job search today🔹 The importance of examining your skills, the way you present your value, and how to keep growing through transitionsOne of the biggest takeaways? Sometimes you have to step back and take a real, honest look at yourself. That can mean getting coaching, re-marketing yourself, and even relearning who you are—not just professionally, but personally. It’s powerful, uncomfortable at times, but necessary for real growth. 💡It was such a real, eye-opening conversation about resilience, transition, and finding new ways to rise in today’s market. 🌟

On this week’s podcast we sit down with Jendayi Berry of Jendayi Berry Art. Jendayi is more than an artist—he’s also a business owner running his own painting and wallpaper company, JBA Jendayi Berry Art.  His passion for fine art really shines through, but what makes this conversation so good is how far we go beyond just the art itself.We talk about the grind and the beauty of business ownership, what it’s like to navigate contracts and construction, the importance of mentoring and networking, and how small businesses build community. Jendayi also opens up about family—his wife, his kids, and everything they’ve got going on—and how that all ties back into his work and purpose.It’s a conversation about art, business, storytelling, and life all wrapped into one.

We had the absolute honor of welcoming two extraordinary heroes on today’s episode, Colonel B. Wayne Quist and Dr. Steve Lansing from Veterans Empowered Inc.These two are more than veterans; they are lifesavers, heroes,  advocates, and authors who are making a real difference in the lives of those who have served.💥 They've co-authored three powerful books (soon to be FOUR!) written to support veterans battling PTSD, with the upcoming release specifically for spouses of service members.📚 Every book is given away for FREE to those who need it most — our veterans and warriors in crisis. You’ll hear their inspiring stories of military service, their time in Vietnam, and the incredible impact they’re making today.🙏 Right now, they’re seeking support to help fund the next book. Let’s help them continue this life-saving mission.🔗 Learn more or donate: https://www.vetsempowered.org/

We’re excited to share a powerful conversation with Collins Oppong, founder of Beyond Seasons Golf Tournament and Beyond Media Entertainment.We discussed how golf is becoming more than a sport—it’s becoming a movement. Although Collins only recently picked up golf himself, he quickly discovered how much it offers: from personal focus and stress relief to networking and building community. Now, he’s on a mission to make golf accessible, welcoming, and inclusive for everyone—especially young people and those who’ve never seen themselves represented on the course.We talk about how golf can be a space for mentorship, growth, and connection—and how the sport can (and should) belong to all of us.

Rachel Edwards is the Founder & CEO Insperai Inc. This company "is the leader in Personality Intelligence, bringing next-generation insights to how individuals, teams, and organizations understand and optimize human potential." Karissa and Rachel had a wonderful conversation ranging from personal value to finding success in business. It was an absolute pleasure to have Rachel on the show and we hope you enjoy the conversation.

Matt Kading is a Regional Sales Manager at 3M Films with a strong background in the graphic space. He has been with 3M just shy of 20 years. It's safe to say he truly knows his company. It's also true that he knows his clients needs, and that he truly is someone who listens. Matt and Karissa discuss his career, window film, and present day adventures. There was a lot to cover, especially because of the long established relationship between our companies.We greatly appreciate, Matt, here at Sun Control and we were so excited to have him on the podcast.

Erica Haataja and Ali (Alexandra Ohland) are the powerhouse duo behind this young, ambitious, women-owned post-construction commercial cleaning business making serious waves in the male-dominated construction field. They're not afraid to hold their own, and it shows.Nordic Shine is prompt, professional, and consistently leaves every job cleaner and better than expected. They're always pushing to try new things, growing their name, adding more crew members and positions so Erica can step even further into her role as Boss Lady, CEO, and wear all the hats she's meant to.They just added a new van to the fleet, and they’re only getting started. Our conversation was full of laughs, inspiration, and real talk about what it takes to build a business that truly shines. Don’t miss this one.

Recorded remotely at the historic Interlachen Country Club, this is our first ever podcast live on the course! Our guest who Karissa Dunham get's to sit down with? None other than Dr. Luke Benoit — founder of Ryp Golf, creator of RypStick, and one of the leading minds in golf swing mechanics, motor learning, and speed training.Dr. Benoit isn’t just a coach — he’s a Ph.D. whose research dives deep into how golfers actually learn and retain better mechanics. In this episode, we unpack some game-changing ideas that form the foundation of his new book, “The 7-Step Swing Change™”, and the newly launched Ryp Ignite Coaching Program — a powerful one-two punch designed to help golfers at every level finally break through plateaus. We cover a ton, including:The real reason most golfers struggle to make lasting swing changes (hint: it’s not just practice volume)What "dual-task interference" means, and why focusing on your ball flight while trying to change your swing might be sabotaging your progressHow the 7-Step Mechanics Ladder™ can help you build a better motion without overwhelming your brainThe Ladder System, RypStick, and other tools Dr. Benoit has developed to help players train smarter, not harderThe concept of Skill Periodization — learning when to be the “Engineer” and when to be the “Artist”Stories from coaching elite players.A sneak peek at Parallax, the new smartphone-based visual feedback tool built to support the 7-Step Swing Change methodAnd the full breakdown of Ryp Ignite — a 30-day, cohort-based coaching experience that’s as engaging as it is effectiveWhat makes this episode different is that it doesn’t just tell you what  to do — it digs into how your brain actually learns motor skills and what that means for your golf game.🧠 Whether you're trying to gain 10 mph in swing speed, finally fix that over-the-top move, or better structure your practice sessions, Dr. Benoit shares insights that could truly change your trajectory.🎧 The episode is LIVE NOW on all platforms.📺 Bonus content (including drills and visual breakdowns) is dropping soon on YouTube.

From Spanish Immersion School to working in the corporate-commercial world and then back to his roots, Scott Carlson joins Karissa on this week’s episode of Shining Light on Minnesota. Scott shares about his journey of striking out on his own,traveling, and building a career, starting a family of his own and how, ultimately, that has lead him back to his family’s business, where he joined the team this year at A.C. Carlson Appliances. Scott's story is one of meaning and drive and we're so excited to share it with you!

What an honor of a Mother Trucker! 💥 We had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the one and only ODB retired pro wrestler, TNA legend, food truck queen, and all-around powerhouse 💪🔥She’s our latest guest on Shining Light on Minnesota, and trust us you do not want to miss this one.We go deep into it all:🏆 TNA wrestling & championship belts🔥 Life on the road👊 4 individual championships, 1 tag team title and a whole lot of hustle. She didn’t just compete she proved she was equal, not just another pretty face, but a force built on determination and hard work.🍖 BBQ & the birth of the famous ODB’s Meat & Greet food truck🚚Life after the ring and what’s next!From her Minnesota roots to the wrestling ring to feeding fans across the country, Jessie Kresa is a force. Hit play and hear why she’s not just a wrestling icon but a true inspiration.🎧 Episode out NOW stream it wherever you get your podcasts!#ShiningLightOnMinnesota #ODB #JessieKresa #WrestlingLegend #FoodTruckLife #WomenInWrestling #MinnesotaStrong #PodcastDrop #MeetAndGreet #shininglight #podcast #podcasters

Erik Haugen, a leader of people, a natural trainer, and head of sales teams joins Karissa on this week's episode to discuss life and business. Erik takes us through his journey of developing in the corporate world to striking out on his own offering contracting and coaching services.

We're riding the wave of inspiration from our latest episode of Shining Light on Minnesota! Karissa Dunham had the privilege of sitting down with two of the strongest people she's ever met—Denis St Martin and his incredible wife, Anne—founders of the Pompe Warrior Foundation. Their journey is nothing short of awe‑inspiring: navigating the maze of Big Pharma, stepping into the world of rare diseases, and fighting every day for little Leo’s progress. Their courage, resilience, and unwavering hope will move you. More importantly, you’ll learn how you can join the fight, support the Pompe Warrior Foundation, and help fuel the next chapter in Leo’s story. Let’s shine a light together and make a real difference! #ShiningLightOnMN #PompeWarriorFoundation #HopeInAction

Jeff and Karissa sat down a few weeks ago to discuss White Bear Glass and the glass industry as a whole!

Karissa sits down with Evan Peterson from Sonus Interiors this week to discuss business, military experience, and growth!

Caleb is a member of the Rochester, MN police department. Caleb shares about the non-proft the department helps run, the House of Shields. This non-profit has a powerful mission. Join Caleb and Karissa for this moving conversation.

Mike is an under-sherrif in Ramsey County. He joins Karissa on this episode to share about his experience and share some powerful stories from the course of his career. He also talks about the community and the value brought to it.

Karissa sits down with John O'Phelan from Ramsey County this week as they discuss small business, the Twin Cities communities, and connecting with people.

Betsy Kelly ( Betsy Kelly Golf) sat down with Karissa Dunham to talk all things golf—from growing up in Forest Lake to chasing the dream all the way to tour status . Betsy Kelly opened up about some of the tough times she’s faced along the way, and how she’s powered through the challenges to come out stronger. Now, she’s not just surviving—she’s thriving, and absolutely crushing it on and off the course. Get ready to be inspired!

Jessica and Karissa discuss jewelry and earth, alternative minerals. They dive into running a business and how to balance family, motherhood, and a successful business.

Karissa and Barbara talk about Business Development, life, and family this week on Shining Light on Minnesota.