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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Hall Sweeney Properties

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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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Northside Achievement Zone

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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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Jill Renslow has lived and breathed the Mall of America's rhythms, its reinventions, and its endless surge of energy. Today, she is one of its most recognizable leaders and the heart behind countless experiences that have shaped the mall into a global destination.

After 28 years, Jill still speaks with the awe of someone experiencing the mall for the first time. Her story is more than a career—it’s a testament to optimism, reinvention, and a belief that joy deserves a stage big enough to welcome millions.

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Mall of America

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When Nick Netley sold his dog daycare business after 15 years, he didn’t slow down — he shifted gears entirely.
He launched SotaShine, a Minnesota car-wash brand redefining what “clean” means. From the world’s longest wash tunnel to a million-dollar dog wash, Nick shares how passion, persistence, and local pride fuel his success.


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SotaPup

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What does it take to transform a market into more than just shopping? In this episode, we sit down with Mich Berthiaume, the creative force behind the Dayton’s Project and countless curated retail experiences that spark emotion, drive community connection, and inspire future growth.

Mich shares her journey to becoming one of the most respected voices in retail curation. She explains how thoughtful strategy, high standards, and a people-first approach have built opportunities where entrepreneurs not only sell products but grow lasting brands.

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The Dayton's Project

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What does it take to thrive in commercial real estate for nearly four decades? In this episode, veteran broker Jim Freytag shares his remarkable journey from CBRE’s early days to becoming the guy who seems to know every tenant and every building in the market.

Jim reflects on the mentors who shaped him, the family roots that sparked his passion, and the cycles he’s weathered.

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CBRE

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