The Sheletta Show

The full third hour of the Sheletta Show for Saturday August 15th, 2026. Guests include Monique Garza, Alix Kendall and Steve Thomson.

Lindsey made something special for Steve a couple weeks ago and she finally gets to share it. It’s been a minute since Sheletta and Steve visited. They catch up about the waning signs of summer, bringing cold weather clothes up from the basement and discuss the merits of school uniforms. They also discuss the University of Michigan's new grading policy for incoming freshman.

Alix Kendall filled in for Sheletta last week when she was in Houston for her mother’s 70th birthday party. She rocked it so hard that we had to have her on this week to catch up and hype her new podcast project, Life Unscripted with Alix Kendall. Compliments fly back and forth and we all end our convo with gratitude for one another.

Monique Garza is a City Councilwoman for the city of Cottage Grove. She joins Sheletta today to talk about the historical primary election results earlier this week. Sheletta asks Monique about her experiences running for electoral office and what she does day to day in serving the community in her role. Monique speaks to the necessity of listening to members of the community and the issues/concerns they bring to her. She also talks about the path that led her to a higher level commitment to community service.

The full second hour of the Sheletta Show for Saturday August 15th, 2026. Guests include Brian McDaniel and Dr. Artika Tyner.

Dr. Artika Tyner joins the Sheletta Show to talk about a children’s book she’s published about Minnesota Civil Rights legends Dr. Josie Johnson. Dr. Johnson’s story is part of the Difference Makers series where “young readers are introduced to a diverse array of inspiring leaders who have made a significant impact in their communities and beyond.” Visit ppgjbooks.com to find more information about Dr. Josie Johnson’s story and other children’s titles focused on highlighting diversity and the cultural contributions that many great community members have made across history.

It’s a mega-visit with one of our closest friends, Brian McDaniel! It has been a robust week in the world of Minnesota politics. Before getting into the trenches Sheletta apologizes for a speech Brian never got to give. They discuss the record breaking primary election voter turnout in the state of Minnesota, what the metrics say and if endorsements mean anything anymore. In their second segment, Sheletta and Brian discuss polling accuracy/necessity and the impact of prediction markets, the first all women’s Minnesota ticket and how Peggy Flanagan pulled away from Angie Craig in her Senate primary win. They also discuss Michele Tafoya’s win and how she’s running her first campaign. In their third segment, Brian and Sheletta discuss the political actors that attempted to impersonate Minnesota voters and test the vouching system featured in Minnesota elections. They also discuss the gubernatorial race between Amy Klobuchar and Lisa DeMuth and what issues are driving each respective voter base. Brian R. McDaniel is an attorney, college professor, stand-up comedian, and Minnesota governmental relations professional with over 25 years of experience working both inside and outside of the Minnesota State Capitol.

The full first hour of the Sheletta Show for Saturday, August 15th 2026. Guests include Lauren Edson and Charles Hallman.

Charles Hallman says people are making mountains out of molehills within the WNBA. What does that apply to specifically? A few stories… Charles Hallman is here to share his experience covering the WNBA the last couple weeks as controversy has enveloped the league and women who play. Charles and Sheletta discuss the unnecessary focus on trans people, the names that have attached themselves to the discussion and how WNBA Commissioner Cathy Englebert continues to find ways to fall short. In their second segment, Sheletta and Charles discuss the dominant season the Minnesota Lynx are putting together, what they need to focus on the rest of the regular season now that they’ve clinched a spot in the playoffs and who’s fueling their fire.

Lauren Edson from the Science Museum of Minnesota joins the Sheletta Show to talk about ongoing Celebrations Day focused on recognizing the diversity and contributions of the Latinx American community. Lauren provides a floor by floor breakdown on what one can expect to see when they walk through the doors at the museum during this event. Families can come and learn about science careers and take part in hands-on activities with Telemundo, Free Geek Twin Cities, HACER, North High School LatinX Club, General Mills, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Sheletta asks about the museum’s intentionality around the Latinx STEM Day and other Celebrations Days (Black Americans in STEM, Women and Girls in STEM, Latinos in STEM, LGBTQ+ People in STEM, and Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in STEM). You can find more details about upcoming Celebrations Days and download a voucher for a free ride from Metro Transit at on smm.org!

Alix Kendall and Lindsey Brown in for Sheletta on a glorious August afternoon. Andy Haugan Heimerl & Lammers joins Alix and Lindsey to talk about marriage trends, the younger generations' gravitation towards pre-nups and why people are choosing divorce these days. In the second half of the hour Alix and Lindsey discuss Ariana Grande, eating disorders and supporting people who may be struggling.

Andy Haugen from Heimerl & Lammers joins Alix and Lindsey to talk about marriage trends, the younger generations' gravitation towards pre-nups and why people are choosing divorce these days. In their second segment, Alix and Andy talk about how people enter marriage with distinct financial disparity, how often divorce lawyers are their clients’ therapists and the impact of COVID on the domestic space.

To kick off the second hour of the show we get into some topics that are at the top of Alix’s mind. Are we going to be okay going to the polls? Is ICE going to be there? What about the data centers and why is everything they do hidden behind an NDA? Then, Alix and Lindsey wade into a conversation about modern marriage, partnership expectations and the division of labor.

Alix Kendall and Lindsey Brown in for Sheletta on a glorious August afternoon. To kick things off Alix and Lindsey visit with Stefani Pennaz from the Executive Director of the Uptown Association to fill us in about what’s going on at the revitalized Uptown Art Fair. Then, Alix gives her thoughts after seeing the movie of the summer…The Odyssey! Alix and Lindsey chat about the underlying message of the film and how it reflects our modern society today.

Stefani Pennaz is the Executive Director of the Uptown Association. She joins Alix Kendall to fill you in on all the details from the Uptown Art Fair this weekend! Alix and Stefani talk about the new location they’re situated in this year which features a lot more green space. They also chat about the food and drink options that attendees can expect and how they’re investing 50% of the event’s net proceeds into the revitalization of the Uptown area. WHERE: Lake of the Isles + The Mall WHEN: Fri 8/7: 1pm – 7pm Sat 8/8: 10am – 6pm Sun 8/9: 10am – 4pm https://www.uptownminneapolis.com/uptown-art-fair-2026/attendees/

Anissa Keyes is the Founder of Aruba Emotional Health Services and Developer of The Northside Epicenter. She’s joins Sheletta to talk about her busy Black Business Week and what she’s accomplished at the Northside Epicenter. Anissa took an abandoned bank and created a space “in the Webber-Camden neighborhood of north Minneapolis is a growing hub for Black culture, entrepreneurial ingenuity, holistic wellness, and economic opportunity”. While the Northside Epicenter is currently at 100% business capacity (great news), they do offer space at their ballroom if you’re looking to rent for an event. She also shares what kinds of products and services customers can expect when they visit the Northside Epicenter. https://www.northsideepicenter.com/

The full second hour of the Sheletta Show for August 1st, 2026. Guests include Yolanda Pierson and Clara Lewis.

Clara “Missie” Lewis is the Director of Community Engagement of the Northside Economic Opportunity Network (NEON). She joins Sheletta today to talk about what’s going on this weekend at the new NEON Collective Kitchens to celebrate Black Business Week. Clara shares all the support services they have for NEON clients and members of the community looking to create generational wealth. New entrepreneurs like Jakesa Johnson who owns Happy Plate, a company that makes allergy-free and nut free desserts for people with allergies, are taking advantage of opportunities to table at events like the NEON showcase during Minneapolis Black Business Week. https://happyplatemn.com/ NEON Collective Kitchens is a dynamic commercial kitchen space designed to launch and nurture local food businesses. We provide a supportive environment for culinary entrepreneurs to create, innovate, and grow their ventures. Our focus on inclusivity, collaboration, and state-of-the-art facilities are the first of their kind in Minneapolis. 2041 W Broadway Ave N Minneapolis MN 55411

Yolanda Pierson is a close friend of the show. She is the President and CEO of the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce. She joins Sheletta today to talk about their upcoming annual fundraising gala and the inception of a Black Business Hall of Fame. Yolanda speaks about her research into the beginnings of the MBCC and the entrepreneurs that have built and served our communities. Sheletta asks about the reactions of the honorees learning about their distinguished recognition and which companies have helped Yolanda bring this all to life. MBCC Renaissance Reimagined Gala: Where Culture Meets Commerce Date: August 8 Time: 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM Location: Intercontinental St Paul Riverfront https://my.onecause.com/event/organizations/097e9529-7458-48ae-b102-967a587fd9e4/events/vevt:b83bcbcf-ee49-46e1-a5ea-f9e3cac9602f/home/story

The full first hour of the Sheletta Show for August 1st, 2026. Guests include Brian McDaniel and Kristi Piehl.

Kristi Piehl is the CEO of Media Minefield and close friend of The Sheletta Show. She joins today to discuss the ongoing Xcel Energy PR crisis after calling customers during the latest heat wave and asking to turn their AC off to save energy and stress on the energy grid. Customers have responded and the company has started a re-evaluate their communications. In their second segment, they go over Xcel Energy’s response to the situation. Kristi breaks down their messaging and how they could further improve. She also talks about how her crisis communication company is growing to match the expanding industry itself. She says the golden hour to respond has now shrunk… “you have 20 minutes” to minimize damage. https://www.flipyourscriptpodcast.com/

Brian McDaniel is back on the Sheletta Show is back to make sense of the Minnesota political scene… it was a dramatic week. To lead things off, they discuss the investigation into St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her for allegedly sexually harassing city employees. Brian speaks to the political spotlight that Minnesota has been under and that this latest installment is the last thing Minnesota needs. Brian and Sheletta switch gears to the intense race between Peggy Flanagan and Angie Craig for Minnesota’s senate seat. In their second segment, Brian breaks down what Gwen Walz’ lack of endorsement for Peggy Flanagan means. He then wades into the Republican runners in Minnesota’s gubernatorial race with primary elections just weeks away. Sheletta asks about the legitimacy of Mike Lindell’s candidacy. Brian R. McDaniel is an attorney, college professor, stand-up comedian, and Minnesota governmental relations professional with over 25 years of experience working both inside and outside of the Minnesota State Capitol.

The full third hour of the Sheletta Show for July 25th, 2026. Guests include Nathan Janicek, Lisa Retezan and Steve Thomson.

Sheletta’s favorite part of the show is when Steve Thomson shows up. They start their visit singing the praises for the Minnesota Lynx and specifically Olivia Miles and Napheesa Collier. They also chat about legendary Minnesota Vikings equipment manager Dennis Ryan being elected to the Hall of Fame.

Lisa Retezan is the Executive Director of WayMakers to Recovery. Sheletta and Lisa talk about the troubled history and ways our society used to treat people who were experiencing substance use disorders. Lisa speaks to the mindset those have who are stuck in the cycle and how hard it is to reach out or focus on recovery. Lisa talks about the services and support Waymakers to Recovery offers to those seeking help. https://www.waymakerstorecovery.org/about-4

Nathan Janicek from Hennepin County Voter Engagement returns to the show to discuss our upcoming elections. Sheletta and Nathan talk about the upcoming primary elections that determine who will be on the general election ballot in November. Nathan does a great job walking us through the details of this particular part of the political process. Sheletta asks about finding poll locations especially for those who may have recently changed their address. In their second segment, Nathan shares details about the launch of an election button coloring contest for kids age 8-18. Sheletta asks where the idea came from and what their goal is in involving the youth. https://hennepinco.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3rXXY2zEUZBkiWO

The full second hour of the Sheletta Show for July 25th, 2026. Guests include Julianne Lynum and Matthew Jensen.

Sheletta recently obtained a new magazine subscription which led her to learning about The Crowded Table which is run by Matthew and Amber Jensen. The Crowded Table is an award-winning restaurant in Alexandria, MN that focuses on “bringing the essence of Minnesota straight from farm to plate”. Sheletta and Matthew talk about the flavor difference food has when it’s straight from the farm versus something you mave have bought in a grocery store. Matthew talks about an upcoming brunch event they have coming up. https://thecrowdedtablemn.com/

Julianne Lynum is the Director Economic Policy & Development for the City of Minneapolis. She joins Sheletta today to talk about all the events the city is putting on this week for Black Business Week. Julianne speaks to the intentionality the city has had in planning the (longer than a week) festivities. In their second segment, Sheletta details how she’s contributing to the City of Minneapolis’ slate of events this week. Julianna speaks about how essential Black business is to Minneapolis’ community and economy. She also details some of the workshops they are offering including several with a focus on self care. https://www.minneapolismn.gov/things-to-do/events/2026-events/july/black-business-week/

The full first hour of the Sheletta Show for July 25th, 2026. Guests include Kristel Porter, Monica Rubio and Charles Hallman.

Charles Hallman writes for the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder and our chief women’s basketball analyst on the Sheletta Show. Charles is on the ground in Chicago to cover WNBA All Star Weekend. He gives updates on the Lynx in attendance and what they’ve been up to which included and a surprise visit from President Barack Obama yesterday. In their second segment, Sheletta and Charles talk about how people around the league see our Lynx squad, the triumphant return of Napheesa Collier and the rise of Olivia Miles. They also touch on the latest controversy surrounding Caitlin Clark.

Black Business Week is upon us. Running a business has many speed bumps and so many small business owners lack access to capital that can help them in times of need. Monica Rubio is a SVP of Community Lending Market Executive at Old National Bank. She joins Sheletta to talk about the Empowerment Small Business Loan Program at Old National Bank. Sheletta and Monica talk about what’s offered within the program and how they work to support those pouring blood/sweat/tears into keeping their small business afloat. Sheletta asks how people can access the program. https://www.oldnational.com/business/small-business-banking/empowermentloan/

Kristel Porter is the Executive Director of the West Broadway Business and Area Coalition. She returns to the Sheletta Show to talk about the special events that she and her organization have planned to kick off Black Business Week! Kristel talks about today’s event; the Black Business Week: Street Mall, and all the vendors that have gathered to connect with community and to sell their unique products and services. https://westbroadway.org/wbcevents

The full third hour of the Sheletta Show for June 27th, 2026. Guests include Justin Ellis, Paul Johnson and Steve Thomson.

Sheletta’s favorite part of the show is when Steve Thomson shows up. Today they talk about the culture of rage and anger that has taken over our culture and the way we talk about it. Sheletta talks about her red flags for grown men.

Paul Johnson is the owner of Handmod located in the Maplewood Mall. He joins Sheletta today to talk about what they do at HandMod, what to expect during your experience and the peaceful vibe they provide to let your creative side go wild. HandMod is a local, family-friendly DIY painting experience located inside Maplewood Mall. Guests of all ages can choose a handcrafted piece, paint it with hundreds of color options, and take it home the very same day. Whether you’re planning a family outing, birthday party, date night, or just looking for a relaxing creative escape, HandMod is a welcoming space designed for fun, connection, and creativity. http://www.handmod.com/ @handmodmn

Justin Ellis is a writer and son of Minneapolis. He joins Sheletta to chat about the release of his first nonfiction book, “The Cruelty of Nice Folks”. Justin talks growing up on the South side of Minneapolis and how he has been called back to focus and write about what has been and continues to happen in the community that raised him. Justin and Sheletta embark on a poignant conversation about institutional and interpersonal racism, industrialization, red lining and the generational impact on our marginalized community members. In a powerful new epilogue, Ellis turns his gaze back to Minneapolis as the sweeping federal immigration operation once again thrusts the city into national headlines. If George Floyd’s murder forced Minneapolis to confront questions of policing, power, and responsibility, the events of 2026 ask what those years of reckoning ultimately changed. Where fear once threatened to overwhelm the city’s response to state violence, Ellis finds a community newly practiced in dissent and collective action. The crisis reveals a Minneapolis still wrestling with its identity, but also one transformed by experience—no longer shocked into awakening, but shaped by it. The Cruelty of Nice Folks stands to be a record of a moment in time as well as a definitive portrait of America, documenting: The Myth of Post-Racial America: Reveals how the promises of the George Floyd reckoning faded, exposing a nation still shaped by deep inequality The Hidden Cost of “Nice” Liberalism: Shows how progressive spaces can avoid real change, allowing injustice to persist beneath a veneer of goodwill Minneapolis as America in Microcosm: Uses one “model” city to uncover the deeper roots of segregation, policing failures, and systemic racism A Personal Story with National Stakes: Blends memoir and reporting to explore what it means to be Black in a place that sees itself as fair and just https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-cruelty-of-nice-folks-justin-ellis?variant=44065276493858

The full second hour of the Sheletta Show for June 27th, 2026. Guests include Colin Roney and Tane Danger

Tane Danger is an emcee, event producer, improviser, teacher, and speaker. He also loves dancing with Sheletta at the State Fair. He’s joining us today to talk about his upcoming show with the Theater of Public Policy. Tane sings the praises of the performers who will be part of the improv show. Sheletta asks about the creative preparation process for their show. The Future of Minneapolis Tuesday, June 30, 2026 7:00 PM 8:30 PM Granada Theater Less than halfway through 2026, Minneapolis has already had a whirlwind year — and the struggles seem far from over. This live show will feature a dynamic onstage conversation with Mayor Jacob Frey and City Council President Elliott Payne, moderated by Danger Boat’s own Tane Danger. Afterwards, we’ll bring up some of the funniest folks in the Twin Cities to shine a new light on the conversation through the art of improvised comedy. Civic engagement has never been so fun! https://www.dangerboat.net/theater-of-public-policy

Colin Roney is the new Head of School at Franklin Academy in Golden Valley. Sheletta asks about his early experiences working with the school and what it was like growing up in the 1980’s with dyslexia. Colin speaks to the ferocity of his mother’s advocacy in finding the right environment and mentors to help him. Sheletta speaks to her experience as a mom of autistic kids and how she has had to fight in every IEP meeting. Franklin Center delivers innovative, tailored services for those on the autism spectrum or with related neurodiversities. Our integrated model unlocks potential and transforms lives. https://franklinmn.org/academy/

The full first hour of the Sheletta Show for June 27th, 2026. Guests include Paul McGuire Grimes and Brian McDaniel.

Brian McDaniel is back on the Sheletta Show to discuss Tom Emmer’s recent comments about our Somali neighbors. Brian shares that he has been friends and worked with Tom Emmer for many years but says these comments have surprised him. Sheletta and Brian speak to the dangerous nature of Emmer’s rhetoric and that we as humans have lost the plot. They also discuss what Lisa Demuth’s campaign is doing after failing to secure the GOP’s endorsement in her run for governor. Brian R. McDaniel is an attorney, college professor, stand-up comedian, and Minnesota governmental relations professional with over 25 years of experience working both inside and outside of the Minnesota State Capitol.

Paul McGuire Grimes is a film critic and media personality. Sheletta’s kids are seeing Toy Story 5 before she’s had a chance to screen it ahead of time (which she prefers). Paul joins to ease Sheletta’s concerns and shares a synopsis of the latest installment to the Toy Story franchise. They wander into a discussion about tablets and finding a balance with all the technology available to us. They speak about how their children interact with tech and the rules/boundaries they have as parents. In their second segment, Paul details some of the new characters in Toy Story 5. Sheletta says she’s enthused to see more diversity reflected in the film. They also discuss the shift of the franchise to center Jessie as the main character and bringing her story to the forefront. https://paulstriptothemovies.com/

The Special Olympics' USA Games kick off Saturday in the Twin Cities. Alongside the fun of the events, health is the main priority for all of the athletes. Matt Peterson, CEO of Local Markets, Individual and Specialty at UnitedHealthCare Group, tells us the services that the company is providing for all of the participants.

One man is trying to increase the access First Responders have to get help for PTSD and other mental stresses of their jobs. Invisible Wounds Project founder Russ Hanes explains the resources that the initiative is providing.

Russ Hanes from the Invisible Wounds Project discusses the help they're providing to First Responders. Later, Matt Peterson from UnitedHealthcare describes how the company is keeping the Special Olympics participants in the best shape.

Who is and isn't speaking up after a UFC fighter used a racist trope describing former First Lady Michelle Obama? Autism and Anti-racist content creator Paul Ladipo describes how he is using his voice to denounce the fighter's statement.

What can we take away from Friday's Senate debate between Angie Craig and Peggy Flanagan? MPR's Cathy Wurzer hosted the talk and provides some details. Then, hear about her upcoming event with fellow news legends Don Shelby and Pat Miles.

MPR journalist and host Cathy Wurzer review's Friday's Senate debate and previews an upcoming talk with more Twin Cities news legends. Content creator Paul Ladipo discusses the controversy involving a UFC fighter's comments about former First Lady Michelle Obama.

Friday's celebration of the Juneteenth holiday provided another opportunity to learn about and offer patronage to area Black-owned businesses. Yolanda Pierson, President & CEO of the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce, discusses how impactful this advocacy is and the importance of continuing it all-year round.