Shining Light on Minnesota

In this episode of Sun Control of Minnesota, Karissa sits down with Kori Shingles, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager at JE Dunn. Kori isn't your typical construction industry professional. She has a background in Parks and Recreation and uses her passion for connecting people to help both businesses and individuals in the construction world.The video dives into Kori's unique career path and how her grandma and mom instilled in her the determination to help others. You'll also hear about her favorite project at JE Dunn and how she makes connections that benefit everyone involved.If you're looking for a heartwarming story about giving back and making a difference, this is the video for you! Even if you're not in the construction industry, you'll be inspired by Kori's passion and dedication to building relationships.

Join Karissa, Patrick, and Jorge as they dive deep into the ever-evolving world of marketing and AI in this insightful podcast. They unravel the importance of branding, the role of AI in content creation, and effective strategies for SEO, social media, and audience targeting. Discover the power of storytelling, the nuances of dealing with claimed business names, and the profound impact of AI on future generations. Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just starting out, this podcast is your guide to navigating the dynamic landscape of modern marketing.

In this episode, we meet Jennifer Crowder, the mastermind behind GR Promotions - a promotional product company that's all about helping businesses brand themselves like champions. But Jennifer's story goes beyond pens and mugs. We'll dive into her journey as a woman entrepreneur, how she uses promotional products to turn ideas into empires, and the secret sauce that keeps her ahead of the competition. So, if you're a business owner looking to level up your branding or just someone who admires a hustler in action, then buckle up - this episode's got your name on it!

This podcast features Missy Scherber from T Scherber Demolition & Excavating, John Nordby and George Trujillo from Kraus Anderson. Missy talks about her journey taking over a demolition and excavation company from her husband and the challenges she's faced being a woman in a male-dominated industry.John and George discuss their experience working in construction and the importance of collaboration, specifically through the St. Paul City’s Construction Partnering Program (CPP). They talk about how Krauss Anderson, a large construction company, is partnering with T. Scherber Demolition to create a win-win situation for both companies.John emphasizes that there is a business case for partnering with small businesses, as they often have lower overhead costs and can provide the same level of service as larger companies, if not better. They're currently documenting their experience to see what they can learn from and what they can recreate for future partnerships.

In this episode of Shining Light on Minnesota, Karissa chats with Erika Sherman of MC Tools and Safety. They discuss the importance of safety equipment and training in the construction industry, and how MC Tools and Safety provides essential tools and resources. Discover how this family-owned business aims to support local contractors and protect Minnesota's workers.

In this episode of Shining Light on Minnesota, Karissa chats with Naomi and Jake from Davis Mechanical, a commercial and industrial mechanical contractor based in Minnesota. The discussion covers their entrepreneurial journeys, what Davis Mechanical does, and the importance of building relationships.

Want to build a business relationship with the University of Minnesota? Get inside tips on navigating the process in this episode of Shinning Light on Minnesota. Karissa Dunham interviews Claire Rung, Supplier Diversity Manager. Claire shares her journey into this role and explains how she helps small and disadvantaged businesses land contracts within construction, architecture, and engineering.Claire breaks down the two pillars of her work: business development and project administration. She offers actionable advice for businesses looking to work with the University, including attending their events, getting listed on their procurement system, and reaching out directly for guidance.

Join Karissa, Nancy, and Diana in discussing The Happiness Practice.Experience Happiness was born out of the recognition that unhealthy stress and burnout—a virtual epidemic in today’s fast-paced global marketplace—is impairing people’s ability to embrace change, cope with challenging situations, feel truly happy or even take on One. More. Thing. 

Join Karissa Dunham and Brian Gendreau is this week's episode of Shinning Light on Minnesota.

Living Life to the Fullest. We sat down with Ken Navitsky, where he talks about his journey through life, and that when he meets his creator, he will never say I wish but instead Thank you.

In this week's episode, Todd interviews Chris Dunker, Co-Chair of Firefighters For Healing. Firefighters For Healing supports burn survivor patients & helps firefighters and first responders pivot after a line-of-duty injury or medical diagnosis. If you'd like to make a donation or learn more, visit firefightersforhealing.org

This week, Karissa Dunham and Lutunji Abram discuss the humble beginnings of Lutunji's Palate, and what impact their bakery and cafe have not just on our tastebuds, but on the community.

In today's episode of Shinning light on Minnesota, Todd interviews one of our star vinyl consultant Brian Rosenberger. Stay tuned till the end for a quick tip for people looking o start out in the vinyl industry. Brian Rosenberger brian@suncontrolmn.com 715.222.4431.

Losing a child isn't easy. Clark and Margo Gassen know firsthand. Tune in to learn more about how Clark and Angi are changing Minnesota with The BeliEve Foundation.

Today’s episode of Shining Light on Minnesota just dropped and wow… this one is special.Our host Karissa Dunham sat down with Abby Oxborough from Sugar Lake Lodge and we went deep.We talked about what it’s really like to follow in her dad’s footsteps and carry on a second generation legacy. The pressure. The pride. The responsibility. Stepping into the role of boss while honoring the foundation that was built before you.She shared what it was like growing up at the resort and now raising her own kids the same way. Resort life becomes family life. Work life balance looks different when it’s all intertwined.We also talked about their family’s history with stuttering and how that shaped their resilience, leadership, and what truly makes them stand out. It’s about heart. It’s about grit. It’s about showing up anyway.Abby is intentional. Personal. The kind of leader who knows your name and your dog’s name. That’s culture. That’s connection. That’s how you build teams that last.Legacy. Leadership. Family. Intention.Go listen and tell me what part hit home for you ✨

✨ Just dropped today on Shining Light on Minnesota ✨On this episode of Shining Light on Minnesota, host Karissa Dunham sits down with Miranda Johnson, owner of Red Wing Shoes, for a real, honest, and inspiring conversation.This one shines the light squarely on Miranda. From her roots in a female-dominated field of speech pathology to stepping confidently into a mostly male-dominated industry, she shares what it truly looks like to lead, learn, and grow into ownership. Shoes, tanning cattle, mom life, and everything in between Miranda doesn’t sugarcoat the journey.We talk about the pride behind Red Wing craftsmanship, seeing the full process locally from start to finish, how she got involved form life in New York to you had me at the shoes, and what that legacy really means. We also dive into the why behind ownership: showing up for your kids, watching your team thrive, and building a business alongside your spouse as true partners in life and work.This episode is packed with grit, perspective, and heart—and it’s available today.Go give it a listen and let Miranda’s story light the way.

Today’s drop on Shining Light on Minnesota goes deep.Our host Karissa Dunham sat down with Mark D. Williams, founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc and host of The Curious Builder.We unpacked the heart behind his work, especially the Mysa Hus project. Not just a home. A feeling. Mysa is about comfort, presence, intentional living. Slowing down enough to design spaces that actually support the way you want to live. Every detail thought through. Every line with purpose.Mark does not just build homes. He builds environments that reflect values. Health. Wellness. Function. Flow. He thinks about light, materials, energy, how a space makes you feel when you walk in. That level of intention shows up in everything he touches.He talks about being delusionally optimistic and choosing growth, even when it is uncomfortable. That mindset has shaped his business, his leadership, and his podcast. He asks better questions. He challenges the norm. He is constantly refining both his craft and himself.We also talked about how podcasting changed him. How long form conversation helped him slow down, listen deeper, and find more meaning in his work and life.This one is layered. Business. Personal growth. Residential building done differently.And yes… he was a fan of Sunny. Our Sun Control of Minnesota mascot as well! Can't wait to see if he comes up with one! Go listen. It is live.

✨ Shining a Light on Minnesota ✨Our host Karissa Dunham just sat down with Jordan Davies of Complete Performance LLC in the Blaine area, and the episode dropped today 🎙️💪We had an inspiring and real conversation about nutrition, work-life balance, being a mom, and what it truly means to stay healthy and strong at any age. Jordan shared how Complete Performance is built around meeting people where they are, focusing on long-term success and sustainable habits rather than quick fixes.At Complete Performance, Jordan leads the adult programs, helping men and women build strength, confidence, and accountability through lifting, functional training, and nutrition guidance. Her husband runs the kids programs, helping young athletes develop strong movement patterns, confidence, and a positive relationship with fitness from an early age.We also got a behind-the-scenes look at the facility and the equipment used to train safely and effectively. Jordan opened up about her personal journey, what inspired her to step into the fitness world, and how she grew into the boss lady she is today by building a business rooted in community and empowerment.If you’re looking for motivation, education, or a reminder that your health is worth investing in, this episode is for you. She will hold YOU accountable.✨ Keep Shining a Light on Minnesota

What does legacy really mean? It’s more than championships, records, or final scores. It’s the people you impact, the relationships you build, and the standard you leave behind.In this episode of Shining Light on Minnesota, our host Karissa Dunham sits down with Winona State Football Head Coach Brian Curtin for a deep and meaningful conversation about leadership, mentorship, and carrying forward a legacy that was built long before him.Coach Curtin’s story is uniquely powerful because Winona State isn’t just where he coaches; it’s where he grew up as a leader. A former Warrior himself, Brian shares his journey from student-athlete to head coach, the mentors who shaped him, and how the culture of WSU football continues to influence the way he leads today.The conversation honors the impact of legendary Head Coach Tom Sawyer, whose vision and commitment to doing things the right way built the foundation of the program, along with longtime Athletic Director Larry Holstad and former WSU President Darrell Krueger, both of whom played key roles in shaping the program and Brian’s leadership path.Together, Karissa and Coach Curtin talk about what it means to honor the past while leading in the present covering everything from team culture and accountability to health and wellness, to balancing life as a coach, father, and husband. This episode goes beyond football and gets to the heart of leadership and impact off the field.And because Winona State is also Karissa’s alma mater (where she played golf), a little college pride and golf talk might sneak in too ⛳️🎧 The episode just dropped — take a listen now. Once a Warrior, always a Warrior. 🏈

Shining Light on Minnesota has a special episode you won’t want to miss. Our host Karissa Dunham sits down with our producer John Brickweg one last time as he takes the next step in his journey. From behind the scenes stories to plenty of laughs this final farewell is full of heart. Tune in and help us send John off in true Shining Light fashion. Keep shining light John!