Twin Cities Leaders Podcast Hosted By Kevin King

Macy Grishaw joins the show to reflect on the path that led her to create LymphLounge, Minnesota’s first lymphatic drainage massage spa. She talks about the personal breakthroughs behind the business, the healing experiences she’s witnessed, and her mission to build a healthier, more connected community.

Kevin King looks back on the first half of the Twin Cities Leaders Podcast season, exploring leadership as a lived experience and the power of storytelling in shaping community impact. He highlights key lessons from guests, shares how the show is evolving into a broader lifestyle and media brand, and introduces the new Twin Cities Hidden Gem campaign. Kevin closes with an open invitation for listeners to get involved and help shape what comes next.

Kevin King sits down with Marlène Boissonnault, goaltender for the Minnesota Frost and Walter Cup champion. Marlène shares her journey from young athlete to professional goalie, offering insight into the mental side of goaltending, the resilience required at the pro level, and the rapid rise of women’s hockey through the PWHL. She also reflects on the impact of mentorship, the habits that keep her grounded off the ice, and a favorite Twin Cities hidden gem she loves.

Aiva Schmitz of the University of Minnesota women’s tennis team reflects on the experiences that have shaped her development as both an athlete and a leader. She discusses the influence of her family, the balance between academics and high‑level competition, and how she has learned to manage ego and embrace honest feedback. Aiva also shares her favorite hidden gem in the Twin Cities, adding a personal touch for listeners.

In this episode of Twin Cities Leaders, host Kevin King sits down with Nell Rueckl, founder of Watershed Spa, for a thoughtful conversation about the importance of resetting one’s mindset and the challenges leaders face when prioritizing self‑care. They explore cultural perspectives on wellness, the vision behind Watershed Spa, and how integrating multiple wellness services can support recovery and overall well‑being.The discussion also examines how leadership behaviors influence team dynamics, the guilt many leaders feel when taking time for themselves, and practical strategies for building healthier habits. Referenced WorkKim, S., Park, S., Park, J., & Sohn, Y. W. (2023). Benefits of leaders’ pleasurable recovery activities on follower performance via emotional contagion. Journal of Applied Psychology.

In the season 3 premiere of the Twin Cities Leaders Podcast, host Kevin King sits down with professional matchmaker Erica Suzanne for a candid conversation about leadership, relationships, and the emotional patterns that can pull people into unhealthy or toxic dynamics. Together, they explore how subtle boundary crossings occur in leadership roles, why emotional vulnerability can cloud judgment, and how unmet needs often shape the choices people make in both personal and professional settings.The discussion draws on research about toxic leadership, follower behavior, and emotional compliance, highlighting how power, gender expectations, and relational pressure can influence decision‑making.This episode invites listeners to reflect on the emotional drivers behind their choices and the importance of setting boundaries that support healthy leadership and connection.Referenced WorksGandolfi, F., & Stone, S. (2022). Toxic leadership: A review and perspective.Gandolfi, F., & Stone, S. (2018). Leadership, leadership styles, and servant leadership.Winn, G., & Dykes, A. C. (2019). Follower compliance and the emotional dynamics of toxic leadership.

In this conversation, Kevin King and Julie Olson Rand discuss the critical topic of mental health in the workplace. They explore the importance of understanding mental health, the stigmas and misconceptions surrounding it, and how generational differences impact perceptions and discussions about mental health. Julie shares her personal experiences and insights from her role at the University of Minnesota, emphasizing the need for organizations to support mental health initiatives. They also delve into the unique challenges men face regarding mental health and the societal pressures that contribute to these challenges. The conversation concludes with rapid-fire questions addressing common misconceptions about mental health and a discussion on the impact of the holiday season on mental well-being.And don't miss Julie's Twin Cities Leaders Hidden Gem reveal sponsored by Kowalski's Markets.

In this episode of the Twin Cities Leaders Podcast, host Kevin King sits down with Matt Monroe, owner of EaTo Italian Restaurant in Minneapolis, to discuss how culture is created and sustained in the hospitality industry. Matt shares why empowering staff to make decisions is central to building a vibrant dining atmosphere, and how trust and autonomy lead to happier employees and more engaged guests.The conversation goes beyond the plate, exploring the behind‑the‑scenes elements—lighting, music, beverage options, and overall vibe—that contribute to a restaurant’s identity and shape memorable guest experiences. Together, Kevin and Matt highlight how culture is not just about food, but about crafting an environment where staff and guests alike feel connected, valued, and inspired.

In this engaging conversation, Kevin King, sits down with Madeline Nachbar, Style and Trend Editor for Minneapolis St. Paul Magazine and Grant Whittaker, Stylist and fashion show producer, to explore the intersection of fashion, personal style, and leadership. Madeline and Grant share their personal journeys into the fashion industry, the impact of style on professional presence, and how authenticity plays a crucial role in navigating workplace dynamics. The discussion also touches on post-pandemic style shifts, the influence of athletes fashion, and the importance of open dialogues about personal expression in professional settings.

In this engaging conversation, Kevin King sits down with Lois Arterberry, head coach of the University of Minnesota's women's tennis team to share her journey in tennis and coaching. She discusses the importance of representation, her experiences as a coach, and the complexities of managing a Division One program. She also reflects on the evolving needs of Gen Z student-athletes and the importance of encouragement and trust in leadership. And don't miss her hidden gem reveal sponsored by Kowalski's Markets: Where it is all about the joy of good food.

In this episode, Kevin King reflects on the first half of the second season of Twin Cities Leaders, sharing insights about the podcast's purpose, the importance of community engagement, and the process of selecting guests. He discusses the significance of building culture and trust in leadership, highlights the hidden gems segment, and expresses gratitude for community support and partnerships. Kevin also shares his experiences with sponsorships and the evolution of the podcast's content.

In this episode of Twin Cities Leaders, host Kevin King sits down with Dr. Scott Schreiber, Clinic Director at Minnesota Spine and Sport and a board-certified rehabilitation specialist. Dr. Schreiber shares his journey into healthcare and the powerful impact of establishing core values in a clinical setting.He discusses how to build a culture that prioritizes patient care, align hiring practices with those values, and use social media to connect meaningfully with patients. And here’s something you won’t want to miss: Dr. Schreiber reveals a surprising and fun way he recognizes team members who embody the clinic’s values—let’s just say it involves a championship wrestling belt.Whether you're a healthcare professional, entrepreneur, or leader looking to build a values-driven organization, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration.

In this episode of Twin Cities Leaders, host Kevin King engages with Dr. Peju Solarin and Max Markin from the Office of Conflict Resolution at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities to explore the complexities of conflict resolution in the workplace. They discuss the nature of conflict, its inevitability, and the importance of emotional intelligence in managing conflicts effectively. The conversation delves into how childhood experiences shape conflict management styles, the role of leadership in fostering a constructive conflict culture, and the significance of being heard and acknowledged in resolving disputes. The episode concludes with personal insights and recommendations for navigating conflict in everyday life.

Host Kevin King is joined by fellow professor Dr. Sarah Rand for a thoughtful conversation on the intersection of leadership and artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education. Together, they explore how AI is reshaping teaching, learning, and institutional culture—and why it’s critical for educators to lead with both innovation and empathy.Dr. Rand shares practical examples of how she’s using AI in her classroom, while Kevin reflects on his own approach. They discuss the importance of setting clear boundaries around AI use, and how both are working to create thoughtful, student-centered strategies for integrating AI into their teaching.📊 Bonus Insight: Dr. Rand also highlights key statistics from two recent reports that reflect current faculty sentiment around digital teaching and AI:Time for Class: Unlocking Access to Effective Digital Teaching and Learning (2024) – Tyton PartnersAI Meets Academia: What Faculty Think (2025) – Digital Education CouncilWe encourage you to explore these resources to better understand the trends shaping the future of higher education.

In this episode, I sit down with Mayor Anne Burt of Woodbury—League of Minnesota Cities Emerging Leader Award recipient and longtime community advocate. With a background in chemistry, 30 years in business and marketing, and a passion for public service, Mayor Burt shares her journey to leadership, insights on building trust and culture, and how coaching and sports have shaped her approach. From long-term city projects to quick wins, we explore her leadership style, peer recognition, and her favorite Twin Cities hidden gem.

In the Season 2 premiere of the Twin Cities Leaders Podcast, host Kevin King sits down with Ava Diaz, co-producer of the La Rotunda and Walk the Line fashion shows, for a vibrant conversation about leadership in the creative space. Together, they explore Ava’s journey from journalism to fashion, the energy of the Twin Cities style scene, and the behind-the-scenes teamwork that brings her shows to life.Ava shares how collaboration fuels creativity, and how leadership in fashion means fostering openness, curiosity, and community. Whether you're a designer, student, or simply fashion-curious, this episode invites you to see leadership through a new lens — one that blends vision, style, and shared purpose.And don’t miss Ava’s Hidden Gem, a special segment sponsored by Kowalski’s Market, where she shares her Twin Cities hidden gem — a local treasure she believes more people should know about.Compensation was provided for the hidden gem segment.

In this episode, Kevin King introduces the second season of the Twin Cities Leaders podcast, sharing his background and the vision for the upcoming season, and hosting solo. He emphasizes the importance of leadership, community engagement, and creating a culture of learning and growth. Kevin expresses his desire to connect with diverse voices and explore various leadership topics, including emotional intelligence and the role of AI in leadership.

We sat down with Jeff Muneke, Vice President of Fan Engagement for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx. With 35 seasons under his belt, Jeff has seen it all—both the wins and the losses. He shares his unique perspective on creating unforgettable fan experiences, regardless of the scoreboard. Plus, Jeff opens up about the life lessons he learned from his father and reflects on his personal word for the year. Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, inspiration, and leadership insights you won't want to miss.

In our 10th episode, we welcome Cathy Winter, a seasoned leader and consultant at Premier Sports Psychology, to discuss the evolving landscape of leadership and the human side of performance. Cathy shares her journey, emphasizing the importance of empathy, curiosity, and self-awareness in navigating team dynamics and fostering trust. She highlights the power of storytelling in leadership, the significance of psychological safety in building high-performing teams, and the growing awareness of mental health in the workplace. Tune in for an insightful conversation on leadership, human motivation, and the impact of fostering authentic connections in the workplace.

In this episode, we explore the research of Dr. Elizabeth Campbell, Associate Professor at the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management, on high achievers in the workplace. We'll delve into the social dynamics, motivations, and challenges they bring to organizations. Join hosts Kevin King and Angela Harder, along with Dr. Campbell, as they discuss the 10-80-10 principle, the balance between high performers and average contributors, and the crucial role of intentional leadership in cultivating a thriving team culture. Tune in to discover strategies for managing, developing, and learning from top talent.

This week on Twin Cities Leaders, we sit down with Brian Sprout, head varsity baseball coach at East Ridge High School, winners of back-to-back Class AAAA state championships. We dive into the challenges and rewards of coaching in today’s youth sports landscape. Brian shares his insights on managing expectations from parents and players, guarding against complacency after championship wins, and keeping the love of the game alive in an era of year-round sports.From his own experiences in the Dodgers system to his passion for competition—both on the field and in the classroom—Brian reflects on what it truly takes to develop young athletes without burning them out. Hit play and join us for this game-changing discussion! ⚾🎧

In this episode, Melissa Caruso, General Manager of the Minnesota Frost in the Professional Women’s Hockey League, shares her transformative journey in leadership, emphasizing the power of empathy and collaboration. Drawing on her extensive background in men's hockey, Melissa shares how she creates an environment where both staff and athletes feel respected, trusted, and empowered. She highlights the importance of building a cohesive team by hiring forward-thinking individuals who thrive in challenging, startup-like conditions, and by giving her staff the autonomy to excel in their roles. Tune in to hear how her people-first approach and commitment to making tough decisions are driving success at the Frost.

In this episode, change management consultant Stacey Carlson shares her proven approach to executing successful organizational change. From leadership transitions and strategy rollouts to process upgrades and technology implementations, Stacey dives into the critical role of active listening, clear communication, and strategic socialization. She explains how data-driven insights and personalized coaching help overcome resistance and drive engagement at every level of an organization. Tune in to learn how to bring people along on the change journey and transform challenges into opportunities for lasting impact.

What does it truly mean to lead? In this thought-provoking episode, we challenge traditional leadership paradigms, exploring the power of collective leadership, self-awareness, and the evolving expectations of those in leadership roles. Dr. Lovey Peissig, Adjunct Professor, Psychology & Senior Manager, Leadership Development, at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, shares insights on navigating leadership with humility, embracing personal strengths, and redefining success beyond titles. We discuss why leadership isn’t a one-size-fits-all path, the importance of discernment, and how leaders can create space for others to thrive.

Julie Nielsen, Superintendent of South Washington County Schools, shares how her experiences as a three-sport athlete shaped her leadership style. Overseeing nearly 20,000 students and 4,000 employees, Julie discusses decision-making, delegation, and the power of care in leadership.She explains how she approaches challenges with clear rationale, the balance between mentoring internal leaders and bringing in fresh perspectives, and why great leadership is about trust, collaboration, and vision.This conversation offers insights on coaching high-performing teams, building culture, and leading with both strategy and heart.

Episode 3: The Mission Behind Twin Cities LeadersIn this episode, Kevin King and Angela Harder share their backgrounds and how they teamed up to create Twin Cities Leaders. They discuss their shared passion for leadership development and the mission of TCL: to equip listeners with the education and tools needed to create, build, develop, and transform organizational cultures and team environments.Kevin, a sport management professor and leadership consultant, brings over two decades of experience in education and executive training. Angela, a talent management leader in professional sports, specializes in aligning people strategies with business goals to drive growth and performance.Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at why Twin Cities Leaders was created, what to expect in the inaugural season, and actionable advice on accountability and delegation in the workplace.

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Bryan Harper, Vice President of Content and Production for the Minnesota Vikings. With a career that began in Sales, Bryan transitioned into the marketing and content side of the brand, where he led with passion and adaptability. Now, overseeing a team of multi-generational talent, he’s witnessed how his leadership style has evolved over time. Bryan reflects on the mentors who shaped his journey and shares grounded advice for those aspiring to grow into leadership roles. Tune in to hear what's top of mind for Bryan as he continues to inspire and drive culture within the Vikings organization.

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Kelly McGrath, General Manager of the Xcel Energy Center, whose career has been built on authenticity, confidence, and a commitment to not taking herself too seriously. With an impressive path and invaluable lessons learned along the way, Kelly shares how she’s navigated the challenges of leadership while staying true to herself. She believes that no matter your title, we’re all coworkers working toward the same goal—and she offers powerful advice for leaders today on how to show up authentically.Don’t miss Kelly’s insights on leadership, authenticity, and what it really takes to lead with confidence.Listen Now!