In this episode, Lisa sits down with journalist and innovator Allison Kaplan for a wide-ranging conversation on storytelling, retail, and the evolving way we experience the world around us.

Allison shares her journey from traditional print journalism to becoming a leading voice at the intersection of media, entrepreneurship, and retail. From launching her own platform to spotlight local businesses to building Mother Of, a brand that brings meaning and storytelling into fashion, she reveals how curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to evolve have shaped her career.

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From the hardwood to the heart of Minneapolis, Rich Melzer’s journey is one of resilience and purpose. A former professional basketball player, Rich now serves as CEO of YouthLink, supporting young people experiencing homelessness.

In this episode, he shares the pivotal moments that shaped his life — from being expelled in high school to experiencing homelessness in college — and how those challenges now fuel his leadership. This conversation dives into accountability, empowerment, and how creating the right spaces can change the trajectory of a life.

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Kojo Boadi’s journey begins thousands of miles from the coastline he is now helping transform. Born and raised in Ghana, he came to the United States at nineteen with a purpose that, even then, felt bigger than simply earning a degree.

In this episode, Kojo shares how he’s working to reshape coastal communities in Ghana through bold, purpose-driven development. He pulls back the curtain on his flagship projects, including luxury hospitality and residential developments built on 300 acres of coastal land.

Kojo’s story is a reminder that meaningful development isn’t just about profit—it’s about building opportunity, strengthening communities, and daring to pursue ideas that can change an entire region.

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Jared Brewington doesn’t describe himself as a chef, but rather an inventor.

In this episode, Jared, founder of Official Fried Chicken, talks about turning curiosity into a nationally scalable business. From his early days in South Minneapolis to becoming a fan favorite at Target Field and U.S. Bank Stadium, he shares how innovation, technology, and resilience shaped his entrepreneurial journey.

With nationwide franchising ahead, this conversation offers a powerful look at leadership, adaptability, and creating something built to last.

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In Sault Ste. Marie, long winters, hockey, and relentless work ethic forged the foundation of Lou Nanne's life.

Now a Minnesota hockey icon, Lou reflects on the formative moments that shaped his journey—from a legendary hockey career to his success in business and lasting impact on the community. He shares powerful lessons on character, leadership, and why work ethic will always matter more than raw talent.

Lou also opens up about marriage, family, mentorship, and the importance of letting the next generation find their own path—offering wisdom that resonates far beyond the rink.

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In this episode, Sean Sweeney's path into real estate development was anything but traditional. From growing up with no exposure to investing, to pursuing acting, to starting his career as a receptionist, Sean shares the winding road that ultimately led him to build thousands of housing units and launch his own development firm.

Sean reflects on what it was like to start at the bottom, the personal turning points that pushed him to bet on himself, and the realization that time is not guaranteed.

This episode is a powerful reminder that careers are built over time.

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What if real change doesn’t come from one organization—but from an entire community moving together?

Sondra Samuels, President and CEO of the Northside Achievement Zone, shares her remarkable journey—from corporate leadership and Peace Corps service to building one of the country’s most collaborative, community-driven models of support. She unpacks the importance of building community-wide systems of support, that belief and visibility are crucial in a child's success, and how one act of kindness creates lasting ripple effects.

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In this episode, commercial real estate veteran Bob Six reflects on a 40+ year career shaped by resilience, reinvention, and relationships. From cold-calling Chicago office buildings to advising companies today as a consultant, Bob shares lessons on leadership, anxiety, mentorship, and why becoming “comfortable with being uncomfortable” is key to long-term success—both in business and in life.

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