Episode 56: Minnesota Governor Tim Walz returns home to a divided Legislature

Microbiologics is making its first move into international markets. Minnesota Twins’ President is stepping down after 35 years of leadership. Later, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz returns home to a divided Legislature.

Episode 55: The results are in for the 2024 General Election

Xcel Energy is tackling Minnesota’s aging power grid. Deer hunting season is set to boost local economies. Later, the results are in for the 2024 General Election.

Episode 54: Hellmuth and Johnson announces it will be expanding out of Minnesota

Hellmuth and Johnson announces it will be expanding out of Minnesota. The Timberwolves add more seats and new food options to their Target Center games. Later, the race for party control in Minnesota heats up as Election Day approaches.

Episode 53: Boston Scientific raises its sales outlook

Boston Scientific raises its sales outlook. Target to bring another round of price reductions. Later, a report highlighting the current state of Minnesota’s labor market.

Episode 52: A critical Senate race that could determine the balance of power in the state Capitol

The Pohlad family is exploring the sale of the Minnesota Twins. Delta is set to revamp its entire fleet. Later, a critical Senate race that could determine the balance of power in the state Capitol.

Episode 51: The winner is announced in the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota contest

The winner is announced in the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota contest. Mayo Clinic is monitoring a nationwide IV fluid shortage following the destruction of a manufacturing plant in North Carolina. Later, Minnesota Governor and vice-president hopeful Tim Walz is called out by the business community.

Episode 50: Xcel Energy is sending more than 100 of its employees to the areas impacted by Hurricane Helene

Xcel Energy is sending more than 100 of its employees to the areas impacted by Hurricane Helene. Delta Air Lines sends off its first flight from MSP using Minnesota-grown sustainable fuel. Later, the dockworkers strike threatening to upend the U.S. economy.

Episode 49: Women are making gains on boards of Minnesota's public companies

Women are making gains on boards of Minnesota's public companies. An early voting ballot is creating issues in a Faribault County House race. Later, Minnesota posted its largest job gains in two years.

Episode 48: The Federal Reserve announces its first cuts of interest rates

Minneapolis—St. Paul International Airport is named the best in the country. General Mills sells its popular yogurt brands. Later, the Federal Reserve announces its first cuts of interest rates.

Episode 47: Interest rates are expected to be lowered as soon as next week

Target’s car seat trade-in event is back. Cargill expands its national footprint. Later, interest rates are expected to be lowered as soon as next week.

Episode 46: Hormel is honoring its hometown roots with a free concert for the Austin community

Hormel is honoring its hometown roots with a free concert for the Austin community. The Minnesota Vikings announce their 8 team captains for the 2024 season. Later, Tim Walz is subpoenaed by the U.S. House of Representatives.

Episode 45: Essentia Health is testing a new drug to help treat ALS

Essentia Health is testing a new drug to help treat ALS. Consumer confidence is on the rise. Later, a special segment highlighting business leaders of all generations.

Episode 44: The Great Minnesota Get-Together kicks off

The Great Minnesota Get-Together kicks off. Allina Health names a new V-P of Women’s Health. Later, the big-name Minnesotans who attended the Democratic National Convention.

Episode 43: Medtronic and Abbott collaborate on diabetes care

Medtronic and Abbott collaborate on diabetes care. Suni Lee receives a warm welcome home at MSP airport. Later, a recap on the Minnesota state primaries.

Episode 42: Governor Walz is chosen to be Kamala Harris’ running mate

Governor Walz is chosen to be Kamala Harris’ running mate. Your Minnesota Vikings return to the field this weekend. Later, a tax hike is coming for Minneapolis homeowners.

Episode 41: Target launches a denim take back event

Several Minnesota companies are named among best places to work for women. Target launches a denim take back event. Later, the controversy facing the Hennepin County Commissioners office.

Episode 40: Holmes Murphy moves to St. Louis Park

Holmes Murphy moves more than 100 employees to its news St. Louis Park office. Best Buy refreshes their branding. Later, a historic week in American politics.

Episode 39: The chaotic week in American politics

Mayo Clinic is expanding operations overseas. Twins’ fans may soon be able to watch games from home again. Later, the chaotic week in American politics.

Episode 38: Minnesota Democrats divided on the future of President Biden’s reelection campaign

Olympics gymnastics trials accelerated Minneapolis’ comeback era. Thrivent Financial is launching online banking to expand its reach. Later, hear about Minnesota Democrats’ divide on the future of President Biden’s reelection campaign.

Episode 37: Lawmakers respond to historic flooding in Southwest Minnesota

Mall of America adds facial recognition technology. Mayo Clinic launches drones to deliver prescription medications. Later, hear how lawmakers are responding to the historic flooding in Southwest Minnesota.

Episode 36: The Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal reveals Minnesota’s best companies to work for

The Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal reveals Minnesota’s best companies to work for. Target launches an AI-assisted chatbot to help workers. Later, are Americans finally cutting back on spending?

Episode 35: Polaris opens a revolutionary charging network for its electric off-road vehicles

Polaris opens a revolutionary charging network for its electric off-road vehicles. Minneapolis is named the happiest city in the U.S. Later, Senator Kelly Morrison announces her resignation, shaking up Minnesota’s political arena.

Episode 34: Walmart takes delivery one step further in Minnesota

Walmart takes delivery one step further in Minnesota. Vikings’ wide receiver Justin Jefferson is recognized as a leader following his contract extension. Later, companies are ditching office space in the suburbs and returning to downtown Minneapolis.

Episode 33: Minnesota PWHL wins the first ever Walter Cup

Minnesota PWHL wins the first ever Walter Cup, The Minnesota Timberwolves return to Minneapolis to face the Mavericks in game 5 of the Western Conference Finals. Later, DFL Chairman Ken Martin and Governor Tim Walz call for Senator Nicole Mitchell’s resignation.

Episode 32: Post Consumer Brands sees pet food business thriving

Post Consumer Brands is seeing strong returns on their investment in pet foods. The Minnesota Timberwolves’ playoff run is a boost to downtown Minneapolis. Later, the 2024 legislative session ends with little debate on a 1,400 page mega-bill.

Episode 31: Paid Family and Medical Leave debate ends in chaos

A controversial bill ends in chaos on the Minnesota House floor. Medtronic approves a new pain-management device inspired by…earthworms? Later, Kwik Trip announces a new surprising and intriguing snack offering.

Episode 30: Hormel tackles child care shortage head-on

Hormel opens a new child care center in Austin. Ryan Companies looks to redevelop 179 acres in Eagan. Later, the Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal announces its Most Admired CEOs of 2024.

Episode 29: Numerous Minnesota businesses and leaders honored in Entrepreneur of the Year competition

The Minnesota Twins’ accelerator program is bringing start-ups to the state. General Mills adds to its growing pet food portfolio. Later, numerous Minnesota businesses and business leaders were honored as regional finalists for Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year competition.

Episode 28: Delta Airlines announces employee raises

Delta Airlines announces employee raises that will benefit 5,000 Minnesota employees. Xcel Energy proposes automatic bill credits for low-income areas. Lastly, Greater Mankato Growth announces a new President and CEO.

Episode 27: Cummins Inc. Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Jennifer Rumsey, shines at Women in Business

3M invests in a clean fuel company while Target unveils a new line of pickleball wear. Minnesota Chamber members are honored in Inc. Magazine’s Female Founders 250 list as well as Amlaw 100. Later, hear audio from the latest Women in Business event featuring Cummins Inc. Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Jennifer Rumsey.

Episode 26: Innovating through AI and theft protection

Best Buy innovates in the AI space. Target announces new anti-theft steps at check out and Twin Cities Business names its Business Hall of Fame. Later, the Minnesota Chamber’s Doug Loon discusses the hot topics at the Capitol this legislative session.

Episode 25: 3M’s health care spin off company, Solventum, officially launches

3M’s health care spin off business officially launches. Numerous Minnesota companies are named as some of the most trustworthy in America. Later, an exclusive interview on opportunities for state-supported child care solutions in your community.

Episode 24: Twins and Thrivent partner for annual charitable giving

Two Minnesota Chamber members partner together on a new, interactive charitable giving campaign. Senator Amy Klobuchar tours southern Minnesota and visits a Mankato manufacturer. Later, an update on the legislative session from the Chamber’s Laura Bordelon.

Episode 23: Minnesota Chamber members working to help the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators

Minnesota Chamber members are working to help the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators. Also, Target announces increased bonuses for salaried staff following a strong close to 2023. Later, a look at some important business issues being discussed at the Capitol, including the release of Governor Walz’s supplemental budget.

Episode 22: Top Women in Construction 2024 named + 3M announces a new CEO

Minnesota Chamber members were featured as the Top Women in Construction 2024. Also, 3M names a new CEO to start May 1st. The Minnesota Twins join forces with Winnebago Industries to create new experiences for baseball fans this summer. Later, a look at some important business issues being discussed at the Capitol.

Episode 21: Minnesotans vote on Super Tuesday

Minnesotans take part in Super Tuesday as the presidential field narrows. Target announces a new loyalty program as well as plans to open hundreds of new stores. Later, the Minnesota Chamber’s Grow Minnesota! program unveils a new guide to help businesses encountering workforce issues.

Episode 20: Minnesota budget forecast shows long-term deficit from spending last session

The latest budget forecast continues to show a structural deficit. And, Marvin debuts new smart windows, doors and skylights. Also, the University of Minnesota selects its new president. Later, Minnesota Chamber President and CEO Doug Loon discusses the Chamber’s Waste Wise program.

Episode 19: Minnesota Chamber releases highly-anticipated permitting report

The Minnesota Chamber Foundation launches its much-anticipated permitting report. And, innovation from Minnesota companies draws investment from global brands. Also, news from St. Paul. Hear what’s taking place in the state legislature. Later, Minnesota Chamber President and CEO Doug Loon discusses the Chamber Foundation’s new report, tax corrections and more.

Episode 18: Minnesota’s legislative session is underway (and a Session Priorities recap)

The 2024 legislative session is underway with key issues including sports betting, marijuana fixes and school resource officers. And, how two Minnesota companies are using A.I. to help improve customer outcomes. Also, Target renovates its Up and Up brand and unveils a new owned brand to its stores. Lastly, Minnesota Chamber President and CEO Doug Loon recaps Session Priorities with live audio from the event.

Episode 17: New caucus leader named ahead of legislative session

The 2024 legislative session is set to start on February 12 with a new change in Senate DFL leadership. And a host of Minnesota Chamber members were honored among the World’s Most Admired companies. Also, Cargill makes headlines for tackling a noteworthy goal two years ahead of schedule. Lastly, Doug Loon previews the Minnesota Chamber’s priorities ahead of the 2024 session.

Episode 16: Best Buy adds 165 stores in Canada

Best Buy increases its Canadian presence with 165 new stores. And, Hennepin County launches a new worker protection unit. Also, the Minnesota Chamber Foundation’s Business Education Network and United Way partner on the Future Ready Workforce Fund. Later, Doug Loon provides an update from the Chamber and a look at Minnesota’s housing market.

Episode 15: Previewing the next legislative session’s workplace management proposals

Minnesota Chamber’s Laura Bordelon and Lauryn Schothorst discuss potential workplace legislation in the upcoming legislative session. And, the essential John. A. Blatnik Bridge, which connects Duluth and Superior, receives over a billion dollars in grant funding, and gets a visit from President Biden. Later, Doug Loon provides an update from the Chamber and Schothorst returns to interview Josiah Litant, the Director of the state’s P-20 Education Partnership.

Episode 14: Minneapolis’ new labor regulatory plan unprecedented in scope

Global conflicts affect shipping lines used by Minnesota businesses. And, Governor Walz announces a new nearly one-billion dollar bonding plan. Also, Minneapolis has a new labor regulatory plan unprecedented in scope. Later, national elections will decide the fate of six trillion dollars in taxes, and Doug Loon provides an update from the Chamber.

Episode 13: Southwest Light Rail project $800 million over budget

Minnesota’s mild weather affects local businesses. Mall of America holiday shopping surpasses 2019 levels. Also, small business owners are concerned about paid medical and family leave. Later, the Southwest Light Rail project is officially 800 million dollars over budget, and Doug Loon provides an update from the Chamber.

Episode 12: Your holiday business news recap

Legendary American company U.S. Steel is purchased by a Japanese steelmaker. And, Mayo Clinic gets going on a massive Rochester investment – while singlehandedly preventing local schools from shutting down. Also, January 1st mandates and what’s now required for your business. Later, the University of Minnesota makes investments in its business and medical schools, and Doug Loon provides an update from the Chamber. The Minnesota Business Podcast is back – and here with all the business news from the holiday season.

Bonus Episode: Litigation, the economy and Business Benchmarks

This week, Minnesota Chamber President and CEO Doug Loon discusses the litigation surrounding the new campaign finance law that was set to go into effect January 1. And, Sean O'Neil, Director of Economic Development and Research for the Minnesota Chamber, discusses how the medical device industry is propping up Minnesota's economy. Later, hear Chamber Senior Vice President for Fiscal Policy Beth Kadoun's remarks about the annual Business Benchmarks.

Episode 11: Minnesota corporate holiday parties back and boosting local economies

Minnesota corporate holiday parties are back and boosting local economies. And, the new state flag process is down to three choices. Also, a Star Tribune op-ed shares how burdensome paid leave mandates can be on small businesses. Later, the Federal Reserve signals rate cuts that led to a new record high for the Dow Jones, and Doug Loon provides a recap of the state chamber’s year.

Episode 10: Latest state budget forecast shows structural deficit

Minnesota’s latest budget forecast shows a steady surplus but a structural deficit. And, Best Buy and Doordash hatch a plan for holiday one-hour delivery. Also, a new Minnpost Embold poll shows likely voters wanted more tax relief from the historic surplus. Later, the latest GDP numbers show Minnesota continuing to lag behind the rest of the U.S. economy and Doug Loon provides a recap of the annual Women in Business Legislator Luncheon.

Episode 9: Mayo Clinic officially announces $5 billion expansion

Mayo Clinic officially announces its five-billion-dollar expansion in Rochester. And, Starkey Hearing uses AI to help hearing aids work better. Also, a Star Tribune op-ed starts the conversation on regulatory reform. Later, gas prices continue to fall, and hear from Minnesota Chamber’s President and CEO Doug Loon.

BONUS: Business and economic insights from the 2023 Economic Summit

In this holiday bonus episode of the Minnesota Business Podcast, Minnesota Chamber President and CEO Doug Loon guides you through insights gleaned from the Minnesota Chamber’s 2023 Economic Summit. You’ll hear audio from the event from Charlie Dougherty, Director, Senior Economist, Wells Fargo; Neil Bradley, Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer, U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Jonathan Rowntree, CEO, Niron Magnetics as they discuss Minnesota’s economic, political and business landscape.

Episode 8: Minnesota Chamber report shows continued slow growth for the state's economy

The Minnesota Chamber releases its annual benchmarks report. And, Target beats Wall Street expectations leading to a stock surge. Also, the Timberwolves’ sell-out streak continues. Later, inflation may be nearing its end, and Minnesota Chamber President and CEO Doug Loon talks with the U.S. Chamber’s Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer Neil Bradley.

Episode 7: Minnesota election day recap

A Minnesota election day recap. Niron Magnetics partners with GM on electric vehicle engines. Also, the Mall of America is set to open stores with two iconic brands. Later, a look at October’s job numbers and Doug Loon’s message from the nation’s capital.

Episode 6: Paid family and medical leave more expensive than anticipated

The new state-run paid family and medical leave program actuarial analysis is released, with costs increasing by 18%. And, U.S. Bank commits again to downtown Minneapolis. Also, Twin Metals gets the go-ahead to explore for minerals. Later, the Federal Reserve holds rates steady, and Doug Loon, Minnesota Chamber’s President and CEO, talks about his recent trip to Owatonna with the Minnesota Chamber Foundation.

Episode 5: Niron Magnetics' world-class invention

Niron Magnetics makes Time magazine’s Best Inventions of 2023 for its Clean Earth Magnet. Thrivent Financial pays nearly 600 million dollars in dividends to its members. Also, the U.S. Department of Commerce designates Minnesota as a medical technology hub. Later, we'll discuss Minnesota’s recently released unemployment numbers and hear from the Minnesota Chamber’s President and CEO, Doug Loon.

Episode 4: Minnesotan aviators' great week

Aviation leaders Delta, Sun Country, and Cirrus celebrate notable successes. Xcel Energy charts a green course with fresh energy solutions. Later, we dive into the governor's initiative for child care and early education. Plus, insights on the economy from the Minnesota Chamber's President and CEO, Doug Loon.

Episode 3: Post Consumer Brands makes another pet food acquisition

Post Consumer Brands makes another big acquisition in the pet food business. Also, businesses look to solve workforce challenges through collaboration and new programs. Later, hear a special segment diving into challenges and successes facing the manufacturing industry as we celebrate October as Manufacturing Month.

Episode 2: Even cereal is using generative AI

Generative AI continues to find itself used in more industries. The latest? Cereal as General Mills invests in new technology. Plus, Target's new approach for a frugal consumer in the holiday season and its new partnership with Fenti. We'll also hear from Doug Loon onsite from Leadership Minnesota's stop in Grand Rapids.

Episode 1: Minnesota expansions pairing well with innovation

Welcome to the very first episode of the Minnesota Business Podcast, a comprehensive roundup of the week's most important news in business and public affairs from across the state, brought to you by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. Along with providing news relevant to the business community, this weekly digest also includes insights from Doug Loon, President and CEO of the Minnesota Chamber.

Along with providing news relevant to the business community, this weekly digest also includes insights from Doug Loon, President and CEO of the Minnesota Chamber.