The Sheletta Show

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.

Friday night, TPT hosted a Senate primary debate between Angie Craig and Peggy Flanagan. Which candidate did better? Attorney & Principal at Momentum Advocacy Brian McDaniel gives his analysis.

Attorney and political strategist Brian McDaniel gives us a review of Friday's Senate debate between Angie Craig and Peggy Flanagan. MN Black Chamber of Commerce president Yolanda Pierson tells us how to help out Black businesses in the area.

Rachel Flor is the Executive Director of the JFK Library in Boston, Massachusetts. The John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award is being given to the People of the Twin Cities and Minnesota this year. Rachel speaks to the special nature of this year’s honorees and what went into the decision to award our community for what we experienced during Operation Metro Surge.

The full second hour of the Sheletta Show for Saturday May 30th, 2026. Guests include Michael Roberts, Alex Morris and Max & Pam Crawford!

Pam and Max Crawford are local entrepreneurs. Max has Down Syndrome and wasn’t happy with his job options after he graduated school. He decided he wanted to start his own small business with the help of his family and mother Pam. After their support and hard work Max now has spices on Hy-Vee shelves ready for you to purchase! Pam and Max share their story and how they brought Max’s idea to life and how they hope to serve as inspiration for so many families. https://themaxmix.com/

Sheletta is in Boston for the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Awards®. She’s trying to figure out what to see, do and eat while she’s in town. Alex Morris from the Barking Crab stops by the show to offer a solution to the latter. Alex explains where the name of the restaurant came from, what people love eating most on their menu and https://barkingcrab.com/

Michael Roberts is a close friend of Sheletta’s and the realtor responsible for Sheletta’s first venture into home ownership. Michael speaks to the challenges present in the current market that makes it tough for first time home buyers. They talk about home ownership and how it's an avenue to generational wealth. Sheletta asks Michael some of the factors behind a recent lag in Black homeownership within our community.

The full first hour of the Sheletta Show for Saturday May 30th, 2026. Guests include Dave O'Donnell from Meet Boston and Liz Sawyer from the Star Tribune.

Liz Sawyer writes for the Star Tribune. She joins Sheletta today to talk about Chief Brian O’Hara’s resignation as the Chief of the Minneapolis Police Department earlier this week. Liz says that many people are surprised like Sheletta about the news. Sheletta asks about what happened and Liz details the investigation that ensued and its findings. In their second segment, Sheletta asks what else Liz is working on at the Star Tribune including following the ongoing developments for the Minneapolis Police Department. Sheletta also shares a conspiracy theory she has and asks how all of this impacts Mayor Jacob Frey.

Sheletta is in Boston for the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Awards®. She’s trying to figure out what to see and do while she’s in town. Dave O’Donnell works for Meet Boston and joins Sheletta to talk about all the amazing things Boston has to offer and how their website/socials are THE resource for those looking to plan and engage with their experience with the city. In their second segment, Dave provides some of his recommendations for restaurants from Seaport, Southie, Downtown, North End and Back Bay! meetboston.com

It's an abbreviated Sheletta Show today. Here's the final half hour for May 23rd, 2026.

The full second hour of The Sheletta Show for Saturday May 23rd, 2026. Guests include Dr. Daniel Wendler and Heddy Tripp.

Hedy Tripp is a close friend of Sheletta’s and the show. She returns today to share news of a free writing workshop for memoirs. The event is called Listening to Our Ancestors: A Story Workshop for Community Elders. Sheletta and Hedy chat about the importance of sharing our elders’ stories to not only preserve for future generations but to connect us to each other. Date: Wednesday, June 3, 2026 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM Location: St. Cloud Public Library Refreshments will be served It is a partnership with the Multicultural Center of St. Cloud Technical & Community College and organized by Dr. Njeri ‘Jeri’ Clement, Ph.D. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/listening-to-our-ancestors-a-story-workshop-for-community-elders-tickets-1981790175764

Dr. Daniel Wendler is a licensed clinical psychologist, internationally recognized keynote speaker, and a proudly autistic advocate for neurodiversity in the workplace. He joins Sheletta today to talk about neurodiversity in the workplace. Dr. Wendler says that neurodiverse individuals are often overlooked and underutilized in the workplace. He shares his journey with his diagnosis and how he now works with companies to reimagine their culture/environment to enable neurodiverse individuals to be their best selves and flourish. In their second segment, Dr. Wendler and Sheletta talk about the interview process and how they can be a challenge for neurodiverse individuals seeking employment. Dr. Wendler also talks a bit about the books he’s written about his experience with autism and his further studies of the subject. https://www.danielwendler.com/

The full first hour of the Sheletta Show for May 23rd, 2026. Maria Hayden from the State Fair stops by.

Maria Hayden is the Marketing & Social Media Supervisor and a Spokesperson for the Minnesota State Fair. She joins the Sheletta Show to talk about the Kick off to Summer at the Fair event running at the State Fairgrounds this weekend. It’s your chance to experience some of your fair favorites without the late summer crowds. Maria shares what people should expect during their visit, what you can eat and activities you can explore with your loved ones. https://www.mnstatefair.org/kickoff-to-summer

The full third hour of the Sheletta Show for Saturday May 16th, 2026. Guests include Caroline Hegstrom, Dr. La Juana Whitmore, Mizz Mercedez Yarbrough and Steve Thomson.

Sheletta’s favorite part of the show is when Steve Thomson shows up. They first chat about the disappointing end to the Wolves and Wild season. Then, Sheletta talks about taking her kids to Bruno Mars that opens a larger discussion about ticket price gauging and predatory ads.

Mizz Mercedez Yarbrough joins Sheletta today to share some wallet friendly options for your family to spend time. Mizz Mercedez is the Community Engagement Director at 825 Arts and she shares some of the programs and events coming up at their space. https://825arts.org/ https://mizzmercedez.com/

Caroline Hegstrom is a farmer and founder of Taiga Farm & Seed. Caroline was one of the nine entrepreneurs selected to advance to the Fellows Module of the FINNOVATION Fellowship. Caroline shares her story that started with a garden on her deck and talks about what the FINNOVATION Fellowship has done to help evolve her business beyond what she originally imagined. Dr. La Juana Whitmore is the Executive Director of the FINNOVATION Institute joins Sheletta and Caroline in their second segment to talk about their fellowship. Dr. Whitmore shares the processes behind the fellowship and what the work looks like. The FINNOVATION Fellowship Program supports impact-driven entrepreneurs as they launch and lead sustainable and innovative businesses. The program supports social entrepreneurs in the earliest stages of exploring a business idea. Based in Minneapolis, the Finnovation Institute empowers and supports impact-driven social entrepreneurs as they launch, lead, and scale sustainable businesses, like those that tackle issues of racial inequality, healthcare disparities, and environmental sustainability. The Finnovation Institute is currently accepting applications for its 2026/2027 fellowship. The deadline to apply is June 1. https://finnovationinstitute.org/

The full second hour of the Sheletta Show for Saturday May 16th, 2026. Guests include Nubia Monks and Dr. Quint Lester.

Dr. Quintarias Lester is known as “The Joyful Dentist” at his Hilltop Dental practice in Maplewood. He is the official dentist of The Sheletta Show. He joins Sheletta today to talk about those bubbly drinks that seem to be packing shelves lately and what they do to our teeth. Dr. Lester says some drinks are better than others and gives his recommendations to combat the acids we’re consuming and emphasizes moderation while consuming. In their second segment, Dr. Lester and Sheletta talk about how few Black dentists there are and what he offers at his practice Hilltop Dental. https://www.thehilltopdental.com/

Nubia Monks is an actor, playwright, and educator. She also is playing Martha Loomis Pentecost in Joe Turner’s Come and Gone at the Penumbra Theatre. Nubia talks about the story they’re telling on the stage and what her role is. Sheletta asks what it's like working with Lou Bellamy and the other artists bringing this production to life. Nubia talks about how much she’s learned working at the Penumbra for the last three years and how she tries to be a sponge for all of the beauty and work going on around her. Joe Turner’s Come and Gone Directed by Lou Bellamy May 28 through June 21, 2026 https://penumbratheatre.org/event/joe-turners-come-and-gone/

The full first hour of the Sheletta Show for Saturday May 16th, 2026. Guests include Brian McDaniel and Brandon Jones.

Brandon Jones is a frequent guest on The Sheletta Show and he joins today to talk about new legislation that was just passed to regulate social media use for kids 15 years old and under. Brandon says the legislation is a big step but it’s not going to stop everything. Parents still need to show up and so do young people. Sheletta asks how parents and caregivers can catch up their tech literacy to their kids’ level. Brandon emphasizes learning their language they are speaking and checking your child’s phone REGULARLY. Sheletta asks about the targeted addictive advertisements that kids often run into online. In their second segment, Sheletta and Brandon discuss the importance of sleep for teenagers and young adults. Brandon speaks to the number of distractions kids have these days and how quickly time can slip away at night time. Brandon says that poor sleep can look like bad behavior. He also provides some tips for better sleeping habits. Brandon Jones, M.A., CPPM, is a mental health and leadership consultant who specializes in Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), historical and intergenerational trauma, emotional intelligence, and culturally responsive leadership. He also hosts the “It’s Not Your Fault” podcast.

Brian is in the thick of everything that’s “almost” happening. It’s the end of the legislative session and for the first time in his twenty-something year career he’s surprised. Brian says he’s disappointed in both sides and their lack of intention/hustle of getting things done. Brian says much of this is performative. Sheletta asks what the end goal is for our elected leaders. In their second segment, Sheletta and Brian chat about what has been done by lawmakers this session. 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 Saturday May 9th, 2026. Guests include Terace Johnson, Ellie Wilson and Steve Thomson.

Sheletta’s favorite part of the show is when Steve Thomson shows up. They begin with the debate of the day… are fathers responsible to get Mother’s Day gifts for the women who bore their children? They also chat about the Minnesota Timberwolves ongoing series versus the San Antonio Spurs and other Minnesota sports teams competing in the playoffs.

Ellie Wilson from Autism Society of Minnesota joins the Sheletta Show to talk about the upcoming Steps for Autism event. It takes place on May 17, 2026, 9 a.m. – noon at the ROC at the St. Louis Park Rec Center. In addition to being a great community and sensory friendly event it is also centered around providing people who are interested with resources. Ellie details the fundraising this event does for their organization, the programs it supports and what to expect at the Steps for Autism event. The mission of the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) is to create connections, empowering everyone in the autism community with the resources needed to live fully. AuSM seeks to enhance the lives of all who are part of the Minnesota autism community, with a fundamental commitment to advocacy, education, support, collaboration, and community building. https://ausm.org/events/steps-for-autism/

Terace Johnson is the CEO at the award-winning staffing company called Spotlight Staffing. First, they break down a successful job fair they threw for Black women a few months ago. It went so well that it has inspired Terace’s next event, the Great Minnesota Career Expo. The GMNCE will take place on May 21st at 10am at the InterContinental St. Paul Riverfront. https://spotlight-staffing.com/gmnce/

The full second hour of The Sheletta Show for May 9th, 2026. Guests include Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon, Martin Blanco and Damaris Melo-Gyasi.

Damaris Meo-Gyasi joins the Sheletta Show to talk about her new book "Making My Way: A Story of Grit and Grace,". Damaris shares the origins of her book, her daughter being an inspiration and her collaboration process. They embark on an amazing conversation about overcoming gatekeeping, the gravity of impact we have on one another and challenges they faced moving to Minnesota. An excerpt from the book’s overview: “From the crowded streets of São Paulo to the wide, unfamiliar skies of the American Midwest, Damaris Melo-Gyasi has spent her life crossing borders-geographical, cultural, economic, and spiritual. In this gripping and deeply personal memoir, she reveals how a young Brazilian girl with big dreams learned to survive, rebuild, and rise in a world that repeatedly told her she was "too much." You can buy the book at https://www.damarismelo.com/about-1

Martin Blanco joins the Sheletta Show to talk about the film he directed, Nuestro Norte. You can catch the film for FREE at the Columbia Heights Theater by the Minnesota Humanities Center on May 20 @ 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm. Make sure you register on the waitlist for future screenings. Martin shares a bit about the film, and its roots in our local Latinx community and what feelings it elicits from its viewers. https://www.mnhum.org/event/columbia-heights-nuestro-norte-community-screening/