Today on Ready: Leaders to Know, I sit down with Nick Zerwas, a former Elk River city council member, state legislator, and most recently a lobbyist representing a wide range of interests at the Capitol. Nick was born with a serious heart condition and wasn't expected to live past infancy - but Nick defied the odds. From serving in the legislature to building bipartisan relationships with candy in hand, Nick's story is one of grit, connection, and the courage of being his authentic self. In this episode, we talk about his journey, family, and what it really means to lead with courage.

Tune in each week for inspiring stories of leadership and change.

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Today on Ready: Leaders to Know, I sit down with Erika Helvik Anderson. Erika Leads public affairs at MNsure, where she’s dedicated to expanding access to healthcare for all Minnesotans. Raised by a mechanic and a stay-at-home mom, Erika learned early the value of hard work, problem-solving, and helping others. Her story is rooted in resilience, connection, and advocacy. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, advocacy, and the power of connection as we dive into her journey and how it influences her work ensuring healthcare access for those with pre-existing conditions.

Tune in each week for inspiring stories of leadership and change.

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Today on Ready: Leaders to Know, I sit down with Jake Loesch, Executive Director of Citizens League. Jake is a communicator, strategist, and bridge-builder shaped by curiosity, conviction, and a willingness to evolve. Raised in a politically conservative family in the Twin Cities suburbs, Jake began his career in Republican politics. But a pivotal moment came during the 2012 “Vote No” campaign, where his work in communications sparked a deep shift in both his values and his vision for leadership.

He is working to foster bipartisan trust, approaches leadership with humility, honesty, and a deep respect for nuance. Whether launching programs to bridge political divides or navigating the personal complexities of parenting, his story reminds us that meaningful change starts with connection and the courage to grow.

Tune in each week for inspiring stories of leadership and change. Follow us on Instagram @readyleaderstoknow

Today on Ready: Leaders to Know, I sit down with LeAnn Littlewolf, Executive Director of the American Indian Community Housing Organization (AICHO). LeAnn leads with heart, courage, and a deep commitment to her Anishinaabe roots.Her father who instilled in her the importance of caring for others and a grandmother who taught her respect despite hardship, LeAnn’s leadership is all about empowering her community, fighting for housing, safety, and equity. She navigates the challenges of today’s political climate to ensure her people’s needs are met. Tune in to hear how LeAnn is shaping change with compassion, critical thinking, and courage.

Tune in each week for inspiring stories of leadership and change. Follow us on Instagram @readyleaderstoknow

Today on Ready: Leaders to Know, I sit down with Ben Baglio, a lobbyist for the Minnesota Nurses Association whose leadership journey began during the 2012 “Vote No” campaign against the marriage amendment. He helped register college students to vote on campus. Since then, Ben has become a fierce healthcare advocate, a father of twin girls, and a leader who shows up with empathy and grit. In this episode, we talk with Ben about his upbringing, family, education, and the challenges that shaped his vision of what it really means to lead with heart.

Tune in each week for inspiring stories of leadership and change.

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• Leah Solo

Today on Ready: Leaders to Know, I sit down with Leah Solo, Executive Director of the Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board. Raised in Mankato, Leah’s journey is one of resilience and learning. Her leadership journey spans from political campaigns in Indonesia to striving for better care for Minnesota’s elderly. In this episode, we talk about the challenges of leading through a crisis, staying engaged in democracy, and the importance of compassion in leadership.

Tune in each week for inspiring stories of leadership and change. Follow us on Instagram @readyleaderstoknow

Today on Ready: Leaders to Know, I sit down with Catherine Emmanuelle, Director of the Center for Restorative Practices at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Catherine is a former elected official, and a lifelong advocate for public service. From rallying for bedtime rule changes at age five to leading major civic initiatives, her leadership journey has been shaped by strong family values, creativity, service, and resilience. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation on what it means to lead with care, navigating the gray areas of policy, and finding joy on the other side of burnout.

Tune in each week for inspiring stories of leadership and change. Follow us on Instagram @readyleaderstoknow

Today on Ready: Leaders to Know, I sit down with Damon Shoholm, Partner at Ballinger, Leafblad. Damon, a leader shaped by a deep sense of community, equity, and resilience. Raised in a multiracial, matriarchal household in Saint Paul. Damon’s early life experiences and strong female influences helped form his inclusive approach to leadership. His journey, from frequent moves as a child to building a stable, rooted family life reflects a lifelong commitment to fighting for belonging and advancing equity. With a background in leadership studies and a heart for community, Damon brings a powerful perspective to what it means to lead with authenticity in today’s complex world.

Tune in each week for inspiring stories of leadership and change. Follow us on Instagram @readyleaderstoknow