So Much More, A Mall of America® Podcast

Ep. 102: Retail Magic at MOA…Behind the Lease

Mall of America keeps raising the bar—and the leasing team is the secret sauce behind the magic. In this episode, we’re joined by Carrie Charleston and Ashley Hofmann, two powerhouse women who are bringing first-to-market flagships, pop-up sensations, and big-name brands to life at MOA.
From the buzz of Glossier’s record-breaking pop-up to the insider scoop on SKIMS, Edikted, Marine Layer, ALO, and the NBA Store, Carrie and Ashley dish on what’s trending, what’s next, and how deals really get done. Curious how a brand goes from dream to grand opening at one of the most iconic malls in the world? This episode pulls back the curtain.
If you love retail, trends, or just want to know why CoComelon is now an immersive experience—hit play. There’s so much more to leasing than you think.
1:30       The strategy behind world-class leasing
4:00       Apparel additions: Marine Layer, Edikted, Chubbies, True Classic, NBA Store
9:45       Other retail/experiences: Glossier, MINISO (Stitch), SITKA Gear, Human Crane, Activate, CoComelon Playdate, Sweet Paris, Arabian Oud
19:00    Freshly opened: Alo, New Balance, Mavi, SKIMS, EVEREVE, Pandora
24:45    Which categories we’re hoping to focus on
27:00    Retail roundup – the friendly competition game
 
Click here to find out new + opening soon stores: https://mallofamerica.com/shopping/new
Guests: Carrie Charleston, VP and Head of Leasing at Mall of America; Ashley Hofmann, Leasing Director at Mall of America
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 101: Dave Ryan, Storyteller, Genius, and Joy-Finder (Part 2)

In Part 2 of our 100th episode celebration, Dave Ryan returns, this episode is packed with even more laughs, life lessons, and unexpected gems. Dave may be best known for waking up the Twin Cities on KDWB, but this episode reminds us why he’s truly so much more: a sharp thinker, thoughtful writer, and all-around joyful human.
We start with a story that proves, once and for all, that Dave really is a genius (though he’s too humble to say so). From there, we dive into the process behind his bestselling book Take a Shower, Show Up on Time, and Don’t Steal Anything, and how the simplest things—like lemonade stands and thank-you cards—can teach us volumes about kindness and connection.
This episode is the perfect reminder that joy can come from anywhere—a bike ride, a note in the mail, or a morning radio show that’s still making us laugh after all these years.
 
1:00       Dave Ryan really is a genius – and here’s the story
4:45       The importance of stopping at lemonade stands and sending thank you cards
6:00       All about his children’s book
7:15       The joy found in owning an electric bike
10:00    Engineers and architects design MOA with no central heating
11:00    Jill’s most embarrassing/favorite moment as an MOA intern
14:00    Little known facts about Mall of America
16:15    Dave’s first visit to Mall of America (before moving to Minnesota)
17:00    One final story from Dave
 
Click here to purchase Dave’s book: Take A Shower…
Click here to purchase: Little Dave’s Amazing Day
Click here for information on The Dave Ryan Show
 
Guests: Dave Ryan, radio personality, media legend, and host of The Dave Ryan Show on KDWB; Sara Johnson, Marketing Director for Mall of America
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 100: Dave Ryan is So Much More Than a Morning Radio Legend (Part 1)

So Much More celebrates 100 episodes! Dave Ryan, the voice that’s been waking up the Twin Cities for decades on KDWB is here to help us party. In this special two-part milestone episode of So Much More, Dave brings his signature humor, heart, and behind-the-scenes brilliance to the mic for a conversation that’s as entertaining as it is insightful.
 
From the moment he steps in, Dave dives into the art of creativity—what sparks a great idea, how to tell when something’s just not working, and why it’s okay (and often hilarious) to fail out loud. He shares stories of his wildest moments at Mall of America, including run-ins with celebrities, a few questionable publicity stunts, and the kind of memories only years in radio can produce.
 
This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation you won’t want to miss. Come for the chaos, stay for the heart—and get ready for even more in next week’s finale.
 
1:30       Three decades of radio with Dave Ryan
4:00       The key to staying creative and cutting edge
5:30       How to know you have a bad idea…
7:00       That time the Sheriff knocked on Dave’s front door
8:15       The NSYNC story at Mall of America
10:45    Memories of The Jonas Brothers concert at Nickelodeon Universe
12:00    More celebrity name dropping including American Idol hosts
14:00    The ultimate Bob Saget story and the perfect interview question
18:00    Those goosebump career moments
20:00    How KDWB – and local radio – supports the greater community
 
Click here for information on The Dave Ryan Show
Click here for the official Instagram page for The Dave Ryan Show
Click here for the official Facebook page for The Dave Ryan Show
 
Guests: Dave Ryan, radio personality, media legend, and host of The Dave Ryan Show on KDWB; Sara Johnson, Marketing Director for Mall of America
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 99: Your Summer, Your Way: Deals, Dora, and DIY Fun

Sun’s out, deals are on, and slime is flying! In this jam-packed episode of So Much More, we’re spilling the secrets behind Your Summer, Your Way at Mall of America. From crazy-good ride discounts (hello, Wednesdays in June!) to surprise giveaways, concerts, and yes—Twiggy the water-skiing squirrel—this summer is all about doing what you love. Hear from MOA marketing masterminds Sara Johnson and Kelsey Cunningham as they share insider tips, can’t-miss moments, and why summer at MOA just hits different.
 
1:00       The thought behind Your Summer, Your Way
2:45       Dora celebrates the Big 25!
4:15       Deals and ideas for the value-seeking visitors
7:00       Where to find great savings on brands, stores and more
8:00       Hidden free savings/happenings for families of all ages
9:00       Summer kicks off with a water-skiing squirrel (and more events)
13:30    Celebrating the Kids Choice Awards
15:45    Mystery Prize Cards return this summer!
18:00    Our hopes and wishes for MOA summer guests
21:30    Summer ‘this or that’ pop-quiz with no wrong answers
 
Click here for information on Your Summer, Your Way
 
Guests: Sara ‘SJ’ Johnson, Marketing Director at Mall of America; Kelsey Cunningham, Marketing Manager at Mall of America
 
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper
 
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 98: Check-In and Chill-Out: Summer Travel at MOA

Summer at Mall of America is more than just sunshine and shopping—it's a full-scale hospitality adventure. In this episode of So Much More, we’re joined by Preston Lougheed of Terratron Hospitality and Kate Anastasi of Radisson Blu Mall of America to get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to welcome thousands of summer travelers. From youth sports teams and international tourists to family vacations and last-minute getaways, Preston and Kate share what guests are asking for, how their teams prepare for the summer surge, and why this season brings out the very best in Minnesota hospitality.
4:00 A unique service for ‘shop til you drop’ guests5:15 The meaning behind the creative design at Radisson Blu8:15 Tips for summer hotel booking10:30 The best time to book your summer hotel room11:45 How to find great things to do during your visit14:45 How your kids can camp inside your luxurious room15:45 Booking timing tips to get the best value on your room reservation21:00 Summer travel trends and how to lean into it22:30 Fun celebrity stories…don’t tell anyone25:00 Check In or Check Out – a game of wits and opinions
For information on Radisson Blu Mall of AmericaFor information on AC Hotel Bloomington Mall of AmericaFor information on TownePlace Suites Minneapolis Mall of AmericaFor information on Element Bloomington Mall of AmericaFor information on Bloomington MN Travel and TourismFor information on Mall of America hotel partners
Guests: Kate Anastasi, Director of Sales and Marketing at Radisson Blu Mall of America; Preston Loughheed, Vice President of Operations at Terratron Hospitality
Hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 97: Jason DeRusha Brings the Heat, the Humor, and the Heart

Jason DeRusha is in the house! You know the name. You’ve heard the voice. You’ve read the tweets. For nearly 20 years, Jason DeRusha has been a trusted presence in Minnesota media-from the anchor desk at WCCO TV to drive time radio. But Jason is so much more than a journalist. He’s a curious connector, a civic convener, a podcasting pioneer, and a guy who can make you laugh, think, and crave a croissant in the same sentence.
In this episode, we peel back the curtain on Jason’s journey. How he’s navigated big transitions, stayed true to his values, and continued to build community through storytelling. Whether he’s shining a light on a local bakery or featuring the latest shops, Jason brings energy, empathy, and authenticity to everything he touches. 
1:31 Favorite Mall of America memories3:30 Jason’s career journey – always wanting to be a broadcaster4:45 The elements of crafting a good story7:00 Meaningful messages that impact lives8:00 Healthy tips for a healthy life: sleep, dining well, exercise12:00 How the younger generation communicates and uses social media15:00 His take on the local, international dining scene19:30 Jason shares thoughts on clothing and style23:30 In person sales experience makes the difference24:00 Messages that guide Jason in his public speaking26:15 Our guest and co-hosts share their Super Powers27:45 DeRusha or Delusional – is it true or false? A game
Guests: Jason DeRusha, broadcaster, content creator, storyteller
Hosts: Daniel Jasper, Sara Johnson and Emy Dominguez both Mall of America marketing professionals
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 96: Dave + Linda Mona, the Importance of Optimism

Dave and Linda Mona have shaped Minnesota’s story in more ways than one—through media, business, sports, philanthropy, and global travel. In this episode of So Much More, the Monas reflect on their remarkable careers: Dave’s evolution from journalist to PR trailblazer and Linda’s blend of creativity and commerce, including their beloved “Field of Dreams” store at Mall of America.
Together, they’ve helped bring the Super Bowl and NCAA Final Four to the Twin Cities, mentored generations of professionals, and traveled the world—often with dozens of fellow adventurers in tow. They open up about their community work, the changing face of public relations, and the values that guide their lives. It’s a story of legacy, leadership, laughter—and a reminder that there is always so much more behind the names you know.
2:00 Linda shares the story of their 56 years together (it started with a draft)5:50 The kind of girl I should be dating…6:30 A strong connection to the University of Minnesota9:30 Dave’s origin in broadcast12:30 The origins of David L Mona & Associates public relations14:30 The importance of remaining optimistic19:30 The Public Relations Strategy behind the grand opening of Mall of America21:30 Four million baseball cards…what?26:30 Community involvement and Camden’s Concert30:00 Traveling the world with friends old and new35:00 This or That – a rapid-fire quiz
Guests: Dave + Linda Mona, entrepreneurs, business owners, volunteers, communicators, great representatives of Minnesota
Hosts: Daniel Jasper, Jill Renslow
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 95: Dynamic World of Publishing: Leadership Lessons from MSP Magazine

In this episode of So Much More, hosts Jill Renslow and Daniel Jasper sit down with two trailblazing leaders in Twin Cities media—Jayne Haugen Olson, Editor in Chief of Minneapolis St. Paul Magazine and President of Cities Media Group, and Shelly Crowley, Publisher at MSP Magazine. Longtime friends and collaborators with Mall of America, Jayne and Shelly share insights on the evolution of local publishing, the balance between editorial vision and business strategy, and how storytelling continues to shape community and commerce. It’s a lively conversation on leadership, innovation, and the future of media from two women who are redefining it every day.

Ep. 94: Kids Take Over: Hilarious Truths from Take Your Child to Work Day

In this special episode of So Much More, recorded live on Take Your Child to Work Day at Mall of America, hosts Jill Renslow and Daniel Jasper turn the mic over to the next generation. With more than a dozen kids—ranging from age 4 to teens—as our guests, we asked the real experts what they think their adults do all day, what store they’d open if they had the chance, and how they'd start their workday if they ran the Mall. The answers are funny, occasionally profound, and totally unforgettable. Get ready to laugh, smile, and maybe even learn a little from the minds of the future.
1:00 The kids introduce themselves (some with excitement, others a bit shy.)3:30 Do our guests know why we celebrate Bring Your Child to Work Day?5:30 What does your adult do all day at MOA? 7:30 What would be the first thing you would do at MOA?9:00 What could our grownups learn from kids?10:00 What’s their favorite part of the day? (Eden’s cake pops and train ride were a hit!)11:30 What kind of ride would they build inside Nickelodeon Universe? (the dating game log chute?)13:30 What kind of store would they open at Mall of America?15:15 If you had your own podcast, what would you talk about?17:30 If you had a million dollars…. 19:00 Lightning round…what will they choose?
Guests: A bunch of excited kids whose adults happen to work at Mall of AmericaHosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

Ep. 93: The Content Creator Life with Hannah Swenson + Gwen Dinh

On this episode of So Much More, host Jill Renslow is joined by first-time cohost Brinley Zoller from the Mall of America social team and influencer program. Together, they sit down with two powerhouse content creators—Hannah Swenson and Gwen Dinh—to talk all things influencing. From how they got started to their favorite brand moments and the content that means the most, this episode gives an inside look at the real life of social media influencers. Whether you're a content creator, brand partner, or just love the scroll, this one’s for you.
1:30 Get to know our guests…fashion and style rapid fire4:00 A day in the life of social content creator at the Mall (including Ed Sheeran)6:00 Hannah shares her journey (including as an MOA fashion intern)8:15 Gwen talks about her path to influencer10:15 The art behind content creation, scheduling and timing13:00 The superpower of multitasking14:30 How a world-wide brand like Mall of America partners with content creators16:00 Content creator vs. influencer vs. O.G. blogger19:30 The pressure of being a ‘public persona’ on social media21:55 Favorite content creation experiences23:30 Advice for those hoping to begin a career as content creators25:15 Rapid fire closing questions
Hannah Swenson: https://www.instagram.com/whereshewore/ Gwen Dinh: https://www.instagram.com/gwenxanh/
Guests: Hannah Swenson and Gwen Dinh; social media content creators + influencersHosts: Jill Renslow and Brinley Zoller
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.