So Much More, A Mall of America® Podcast

Mall of America®
  • 5.0 (33)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to SO MUCH MORE, A Mall of America® Podcast. From personal development and entrepreneurship to leadership and learning; we are excited to delve into a wide range of topics and share inspiring stories from a diverse group of guests.

  1. 6d ago

    Ep. 157: A World of Attractions at Mall of America

    What does it take to create unforgettable experiences for millions of guests each year? In this episode, we go behind the scenes with Brian Spielman, Vice President of Attractions, and Kelsey Cunningham, Senior Marketing Manager, to explore how Mall of America brings its world-class attractions to life.    From Nickelodeon Universe and Crayola Experience to the new Star Express train, mini golf, and more, Brian and Kelsey share how their teams balance operations, marketing, staffing, seasonality, promotions, and guest feedback to keep every visit fresh and memorable. They also discuss the collaboration, creativity, and planning that go into delivering exceptional experiences every day, along with tips to help guests make the most of their next visit to Mall of America.    2:00 Brian started his MOA career making fudge at Camp Snoopy and continued to grow  5:00 Kelsey began in guest services at MOA gaining insights into our guests  7:30 The logistics behind operating many attractions under one roof  13:45 Attractions marketing – the magic behind the message  16:00 Ways to save money at MOA this summer  22:00 Tips for families from photo ops to best times    Visit: https://www.mallofamerica.com/entertainment/attractions/all   Visit: https://nickelodeonuniverse.com/home/  Visit: https://crayolaexperiencemn.com/   Visit: https://www.mallofamerica.com/entertainment/events/all     Guests: Brian Spielman, Attractions Vice President; Kelsey Cunningham, Marketing Senior Manager    Hosts: Daniel Jasper    Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

  2. Jul 8

    Ep. 156: Boba, Beads & Building Community

    This week on So Much More, we're bringing you two special conversations featuring unique experiences happening at Mall of America.   In Part One, Jonathan Chong and Yenni Chen, co-founders of Niko Niko Boba, share the story behind their limited-time collaboration with Peanuts. From Snoopy-inspired beverages and exclusive merchandise to the nostalgia of Camp Snoopy, learn how this playful partnership came to life and why it's creating smiles for guests of all ages.   Then in Part Two, Rochelle Peterson and Kat Sry of Lotus Beads & Jewelry discuss The Grande Connection, a global effort to create a one-mile-long World Peace Chain in honor of Hiroshima Day, and how guests can be part of this meaningful community event.   1:45       How Niko Niko Boba got started (right here at Mall of America) 6:00       Partnering with fabled brand, Peanuts, featuring beloved characters 16Snoopy + Woodstock 10:00    The inspiration behind the Peanuts collab, and the great merch available 12:00    Quick questions and answers from Jonathan, Yenni and Dan 16:00    The Grande Connection – the story behind the creation of a Peace Chain 22:00    Bringing everyone together on August 6th at MOA for The Grande Connection 25:50    The message is about positivity, hope and the future 29:30    About Lotus Beads and Jewelry at MOA and some final thoughts   Visit: https://www.nikonikoboba.com/ Visit: https://www.lotusbeadsandjewelry.com/   Guests: Jonathan Chong and Yenni Chen, co-founders of Niko Niko Boba; Rochelle Peterson and Kat Sry of Lotus Beads & Jewelry   Hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper   Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

  3. Jul 1

    Ep. 154: From Lady Gaga to MN Wild Hockey: Behind the Scenes of Grand Casino Arena

    From sold-out concerts and championship-caliber hockey to family shows and unforgettable live experiences, Grand Casino Arena is one of Minnesota's premier entertainment destinations. This week, we're joined by Kelly McGrath, Vice President and General Manager of Grand Casino Arena, for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep one of the region's busiest venues running at full speed.    Kelly shares her career journey, reflects on the excitement surrounding Lady Gaga's spectacular spring performance, and gives us a preview of an incredible summer lineup featuring artists like Alex Warren, Melanie Martinez, ZAYN, Cody Johnson, and Monster Jam. We also explore the unique energy of Minnesota Wild game nights, how fan expectations are evolving, and the countless details that go into creating memorable experiences for every guest who walks through the doors. Whether you're a sports fan, concert lover, or simply curious about what happens behind the curtain, this conversation offers a fascinating look inside the venue where Minnesota comes together.    1:00 An introduction to Kelly McGrath and her professional journey  4:30 How the community comes together to put on extraordinary events  6:00 The summer lineup at Grand Casino Arena from soft rock to Monster Jam  10:30 Some musical surprises coming and the joy of seeing them in person  11:45 The shift in how consumers react to purchasing tickets  14:15 The challenges with operating a large, aging building  16:45 Service First Initiative at Grand Casino Arena – creating great memories  21:50 Tips for parking, dining and enjoying your night at the concert    Visit: https://www.grandcasinoarena.com/     Guests: Kelly McGrath, Vice President and General Manager of Gand Casino Arena    Hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper    Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

  4. Jun 24

    Ep. 154: Tony & Ric Oliva: A Story of Family, Baseball, and Belonging

    Tony Oliva’s story is about much more than baseball. In this episode of So Much More, we sit down with Minnesota Twins legend Tony Oliva and his son, Ric Oliva, author of No Hay Problema: The Amazing Story of Tony Oliva, for a conversation about resilience, family, and legacy.   Tony reflects on his journey from Cuba to the major leagues, the sacrifices and second chances that shaped his path, and what it meant to finally receive the call to the Hall of Fame. Ric shares why he wanted to tell his father’s story for a younger audience and how Tony’s signature outlook “no hay problema” became a guiding philosophy for their family. Together, they talk about baseball, belonging, Minnesota, and the lasting connection between Tony’s Twins legacy and the site where Mall of America now stands.   1:45     Tony recalls playing at Metropolitan Stadium, and loves visiting Mall of America and home plate 3:15     Tony recalls former teammates and how they helped him as a rookie 5:00     What drove Tony to earn a Gold Glove and All Star status 9:00     Ric talks about growing up with a famous father, and the book he wrote 15:00    How never giving up can lead to success 21:00    When father gets to pitch to hall-of-fame father at MN Twins Fantasy Camp 25:15    What it meant to be called into the Hall of Fame 28:40    All about the book, “No Hay Problema” and the most important lesson   Visit: https://ricoliva.com/ Visit: https://www.facebook.com/MNTwinsFantasyCamp/   Guests: Tony Oliva, Ric Oliva   Hosts: Daniel Jasper, Jill Renslow   Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

  5. Jun 17

    Ep. 153: Casual, Fun + Trendy…Lulus Pop-Up at MOA

    Lulus began as a small vintage shop in Northern California and has grown into a global fashion brand known for helping women celebrate life’s special moments with confidence and style.   In this episode of So Much More, we sit down with Patrick Buchanan, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Lulus, to discuss the brand’s journey, its loyal customer following, and its summer pop-up at Mall of America. Patrick shares insights on creating memorable retail experiences, what guests can expect from Lulus this summer, and advice for brands considering pop-up activations.   The conversation also explores this season’s fashion trends (including the rise of butter yellow), the impact of AI and technology on the industry, and a few fun rapid-fire questions to close out the show.   2:00     The story behind Lulus, and why the brand has such loyalty 5:15     Offering apparel that is beautiful, fun and affordable 8:15     What the brand hopes to learn from the Mall of America experience 12:00    Advice for brands considering doing a pop-up experience 15:30    What guests to Lulus can expect to experience this summer 18:30    Summer fashion trends and colors (yes… it’s butter yellow season) 21:50    How fashion brands look at the AI/technology evolution 25:00    Off-the-cuff responses on fashion and life   Visit: https://www.lulus.com/ Visit: https://www.mallofamerica.com/   Guests: Patrick Buchanan, SVP of Marketing at Lulus   Hosts: Jill Renslow, Maggie Boedigheimer   Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

  6. Jun 10

    Ep. 152: The Great Indoors, Your Ultimate Summer at MOA

    Summer is in full swing at Mall of America, and this year's them, The Great Indoors, is redefining what a summer getaway can look like. In this episode, we're joined by Sara (SJ) Johnson, Marketing Director, and Kelsey Cunningham, Senior Marketing Manager, to explore everything happening at MOA this season.   From the return of Mystery Prizes, where guests can win everything from shopping and attraction perks to grocery and gas gift cards, to exciting off-site events throughout the community, there's no shortage of ways to join the fun. We also dive into Nickelodeon Universe's Summer Rewind, a nostalgia-filled celebration featuring milestone anniversaries for beloved Nickelodeon favorites, special character appearances, and new family experiences including PAW Patrol.   Plus, learn how MOA's curated itineraries can help guests discover hidden gems, insider tips, and personalized ways to spend a day at the Mall, and hear how attraction bundles make it easier than ever to experience favorites like Crayola Experience, SEA LIFE, FlyOver America, and more while saving money.   1:00     All about ‘The Great Indoors’ summer adventures at Mall of America 4:30     Returning again this summer, Mystery Prizes presented by Pepsi 7:00     Nick characters greet fans in Nickelodeon Universe all summer long for Summer Rewind 13:45    Ryan Meetup Group – all Ryan’s can ride the Ryan Coaster on July 24 15:30    Summer itineraries for guests of all ages at www.mallofamerica.com/itineraries 17:45    Planning and saving with attraction bundles – customized for your needs and fun 19:30    Summer Fun fast answers by our team – great tips and ideas for guests   Visit: https://www.mallofamerica.com/ Visit: https://nickelodeonuniverse.com/summer/ Visit: MOA Attraction Bundles   Guests: Kelsey Cunningham, Senior Marketing Manager   Hosts: Jill Renslow, Sara Johnson   Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

  7. Jun 3

    Ep. 151: Welcoming the Special Olympics USA Games to Minnesota

    The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games are coming to Minnesota June 20-26, and they promise to be one of the most inspiring events our state has ever hosted. In this episode, we sit down with Christy Sovereign, CEO of the Games, to explore how this national event will bring together thousands of athletes, coaches, volunteers, families, and fans in a celebration of achievement, determination, and inclusion.   Christy shares her personal journey with Special Olympics, what it means to lead the USA Games, and why the Twin Cities were selected to host this extraordinary event. We discuss the lasting impact the Games will have on Minnesota, the role of community partnerships, and how organizations like Mall of America are helping create unforgettable experiences for athletes and visitors alike, including the MDI Fan Zone at Mall of America on June 23.   From the excitement of competition and opening ceremonies to interactive fan zones, family programming, and the powerful tradition of the Law Enforcement Torch Run, this conversation highlights the many ways the Games inspire people of all abilities to connect, learn, and celebrate one another.   2:00     How Minnesota came together to win their bid to host the games 6:00     Christy’s path to leading this unique athletic event 8:15     What was the biggest surprise – or lesson learned – when planning for the games 12:25    The meaning behind the logo for the games 14:15    How Minnesotans consistently show up when it matters: more than 20,000 volunteers 16:00    The timeline for the 2026 games from the national torch run, to opening & closing ceremonies 18:30    All about the youth athlete program (ages 2 to 7) bringing kids together 20:00    Advice for first-time Special Olympics spectators and fans, and a challenge for you 24:00    The legacy will continue after the games, making an impact for our community   Visit: https://2026specialolympicsusagames.org/ Visit: https://specialolympicsminnesota.org/ Visit: https://www.mallofamerica.com/   Guests: Christy Sovereign, Chief Executive Officer, 2026 Special Olympics USA Games   Hosts: Jill Renslow   Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

  8. May 27

    Ep. 150: Coloring Outside the Lines: Crayola Experience MOA Celebrates 10 Years

    For the past ten years, the Crayola Experience at Mall of America has inspired millions of guests to color outside the lines, embrace creativity, and make unforgettable family memories.   In this colorful episode, we’re joined by Carlos Saldana, Attractions Supervisor, and Kelsey Cunningham, Senior Marketing Manager, to celebrate a decade of imagination, hands-on fun, and crayon-filled adventures. From favorite exhibits and unforgettable guest moments to the evolution of the attraction over the years, Carlos and Kelsey share what makes Crayola Experience such a special part of the Mall of America experience.   We also get a preview of the exciting 10th birthday celebration happening June 6th and 7th, including special activities, surprises, and ways families can join the fun. Plus, the conversation takes a nostalgic turn as we dive into favorite crayon colors, discontinued classics, and the emotional attachment people have to a simple box of crayons.   1:30       The journey that brought Carlos to the Crayola Experience 4:30       Why guests truly connect with the Crayola brand – it’s generational 7:00       What the ‘experience’ in the Crayola Experience is all about 10:00    The value guests can find at the Crayola Experience 11:40    Hands-on activations guests of all ages can enjoy 16:30    The soft-play area inside Crayola Experience for adventurous kids, and Rainbow Rain 18:30    The 10th Anniversary Celebration details including crafts, treats and giveaways 24:00    Trivia and fast answer round   Visit: Crayola Experience Visit: https://www.mallofamerica.com/directory/crayola-experience   Guests: Carlos Saldana, Attractions Supervisor at the Crayola Experience, and Kelsey Cunningham, Senior Marketing Manager at Mall of America   Hosts: Daniel Jasper   Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.

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Welcome to SO MUCH MORE, A Mall of America® Podcast. From personal development and entrepreneurship to leadership and learning; we are excited to delve into a wide range of topics and share inspiring stories from a diverse group of guests.

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