Best B RAD Life Podcasts (2025)

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Gopher Star Abbey Murphy 23:34

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7d ago23:34

23:34

Dawn Mitchell and Jim Souhan chat with the Gophers' rising star forward, who is looking forward to playing in the pros and ``hitting.'' Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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#298: Why The Nee Doh Cube Nice Cube Is A Finalist For This Major Toy Award with Paul Weingard 38:07

7d ago38:07

38:07

Can a $5 squishy toy really outsell the competition and take home a Toy of the Year award? Schylling’s CEO Paul Weingard is betting on it and honestly, the numbers are on his side. The NeeDoh Nice Cube Swirl isn’t just another sensory stress ball. It’s a Specialty Toy of the Year finalist that’s been an Amazon best seller, is selling out in stores,…

1
Dawn's Best Friends 46:11

13d ago46:11

46:11

Dawn Mitchell celebrates her birthday and her life with a conversation with her best friends. On sports, kids making it to the pros, motherhood, and the friendship of strong women. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)…

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#297: How South Beach Bubbles Became a 2-Time TOTY Finalist with Ron Weizman 29:43

14d ago29:43

29:43

They sold out before summer, got emails from retailers and industry outsiders, and scored a back-to-back TOTY nomination… so how did they do it? In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, I talk with Ron Weizman of South Beach Bubbles about the strategy behind their hit product, the Galactic Color Bubble Machine. We cover what it takes to st…

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Episode 18: Bridget Crocker-Step Into The Current 26:16

15d ago26:16

26:16

Send us a text This week’s episode is especially close to my heart because I’m joined by my longtime friend Bridget Crocker—a river guide, writer, and survivor whose life story is as powerful as the rivers she’s navigated. Bridget’s new memoir, The River’s Daughter, is more than jus an adventure tale. It’s a deeply personal journey that begins in a…

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Season 6 episode 76 44:36

19d ago44:36

44:36

Wow...it's great when a plan comes together:) Years and years of planning and preparation are now coming to the final challenge. It's wet and cold, the armed guards are watching area with their manned look out stations and drone surveillance. On summit day I am awaken by the sound of rain hitting the tents surface several hours before departure. Th…

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Season 6 episode 75 26:45

19d ago26:45

26:45

One of the most dangerous and exciting mountains I've ever been on. What makes this once in a lifetime experience is Papua New Guinea is definitely one of the most remote places in the world. There are dozens if not hundreds of individual tribes that still practice head hunting in these jungles surrounding Carstens. Combine the Primitive natives wi…

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Lea B Olsen on MN hoops 35:26

20d ago35:26

35:26

Our favorite basketball analyst on Gophers, Braun, Frese, Phee, WNBA, Ant & Crean. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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#296: ESPN Virtual Reality Experience Nominated For A Major Toy Award with Steve Rad 41:35

21d ago41:35

41:35

What does it really take to make an ESPN-licensed toy? Imagine teaching kids about sports from inside SportsCenter. That’s exactly what Abacus Brands pulled off after 27...yes, twenty-seven licensing deals, seven TOTY nominations, and one incredibly ambitious idea. For 2025, Abacus Brands teamed up with ESPN and a roster of elite athletes to create…

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Season 6 episode 73 Carstens Papua New Guinea 27:56

24d ago27:56

27:56

This it's definitely one of my favorite podcasts because it was one of my more difficult climbs. It was only one full day but 5 years in the making.

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Season 6 Episode 72. my 7th big peak Carstens one of world's greatest Peaks 20:08

25d ago20:08

20:08

After many years of patiently waiting it looks like I might finally get my opportunity to head to the remote nation of Papua New Guineain in search of The elusive Carstensz Peak.

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#295: How Sticki Rolls Went From 1 Billion Views To Toy of the Year Finalist with Lev Nelson 46:10

27d ago46:10

46:10

What started as an inventor's pitch, evolved into a collectible phenomenon. Sky Castle Toys is showing us what happens when you combine viral content with collectibility… and it’s Sticki Rolls. Sticki Rolls is nominated for Collectible Toy Of The Year, and if you ask me, they should be the ones taking home the TOTY. (sorry Lego!) Sky Castle built a…

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WCCO Sports Reporter Marielle Mohs shines her own light on women’s sports. 41:04

28d ago41:04

41:04

Elle talks with Dawn on paving her own path with in WCCO Sports Dept & “WoMN in Sports” podcast. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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The Sneaker Reporter Story 1:13:22

1M ago1:13:22

1:13:22

How Travis Singleton went from a convenience store conversation to a national brand. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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#294: Why the TOTY Awards Are the Oscars of the Toy Industry 10:14

1M ago10:14

10:14

You’ve heard of the Emmys, the Oscars, and the Grammys... but what about the TOTYs? In this episode, we’re going to dive into the TOTY (Toy of the Year) Awards and why they’re a huge deal if you're in the toy industry. I’m breaking down exactly how to get nominated, how to time your launch for max award potential, and how a TOTY nod can boost your …

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The Wild's Taylor Cashman 33:01

1M ago33:01

33:01

The Wild's senior manager of hockey administration, a Minnesota grad, talks about how she got the job and what it's like to do just about everything for a hockey club. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)…

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Andrew Dukowitz on Hoops 33:02

2M ago33:02

33:02

Andrew Dukowitz of Zone Coverage works as a nurse but turned his passion into a career by covering the Lynx, Wolves and Gopher women in a unique way. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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#293: How I Landed On Brand with Jimmy Fallon and Pitched National Campaigns 26:51

2M ago26:51

26:51

In spring 2025 I was invited to join On Brand with Jimmy Fallon as 1 of 10 creatives selected to pitch national campaigns to major brands on national TV. Since the episodes aired, my DMs have been full of the same questions: how did I get on the show, what was it really like, and what do I think of Jimmy Fallon? This week on Making It In The Toy In…

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2 Former Gopher Greats 29:17

2M ago29:17

29:17

2 former Gopher greats continue to thrive in Pro Volleyball. AU action this weekend in Madison features Tori Dixon & Sarah Wilhite Parsons. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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#292: Toy Creators Academy Accelerator Coaching Call with Durratussharaf 33:29

2M ago33:29

33:29

You’ve got a product idea that means the world to you… maybe it’s cultural, personal, or rooted in your own childhood traditions. But making it retail-ready without losing your mission? That’s the challenge. In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, I’m coaching Durrat, Toy Creators Academy alum, Accelerator grad, and founder of Dcraftsourc…

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Episode 17: Whitney (Conner) Clapper-A True Force Of Nature 54:09

2M ago54:09

54:09

Send us a text Welcome back to Stories from the Trailer, where we drink great beer and live inspired. I’m your host, Chipper Bro, and today’s guest is someone I admire deeply—a dear friend, a brilliant soul. Whitney Clapper is a storyteller, environmental and social justice advocate, and community weaver who’s spent over two decades bridging the ga…

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Mark Rivard Does Rad Things 37:04

2M ago37:04

37:04

The Minneapolis artist discusses illustrating skateboards and golf courses, and how his art can benefit kids. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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#291: Toy Creators Academy Coaching Call with Melanie Palmer 52:54

2M ago52:54

52:54

Your toy is 90% done… for the fifth time. You keep playtesting, tweaking, second-guessing, and you’re convinced it’s not ready. But what if all that perfectionism is what’s actually holding you back? In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, I’m coaching Melanie Palmer, Toy Creators Academy alum and founder of Emmers, a joyful toy brand des…

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Lea B. Olsen on Hoops & Life 40:02

2M ago40:02

40:02

The great Lea B. Olsen talks Lynx, WNBA, Gophers, youth sports & her upcoming book. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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#290: Toy Creators Academy Coaching Call with Melissa Brody 54:35

2M ago54:35

54:35

Big feelings deserve a safe space and sometimes, that space looks like a soft, huggable friend with swappable expressions and a whole lot of heart…eyes! In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, we’re opening up another coaching call episode featuring Toy Creators Academy alum Melissa Brody, a licensed therapist, entrepreneur, and new mom w…

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Lea B. & Canicross's Lori Anne Johnson 44:50

3M ago44:50

44:50

Lea B. Olsen on the Lynx & WNBA frustrations; then Dawn chats with canicross star Lori Anne Johnson. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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#289: The TCA Journey Behind a Toy Empowering Kids to Choose Kindness with Jana Hallam 23:38

3M ago23:38

23:38

A toy doesn’t need to be loud or flashy to leave a lasting impact. The most meaningful ones teach kindness, spark empathy, and build something real in a child’s heart. That belief is what led today’s guest to create a toy that’s about so much more than play. In this special replay episode, we’re passing the mic to guest host Virginia Lette, who sit…

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#288: How an Industry Veteran Rebuilt His Toy Knowledge Through TCA with Gerardo Davila 27:25

3M ago27:25

27:25

Every once in a while, I meet a toypreneur whose journey reminds me why I started this podcast… and today’s guest is one of those people. In this episode, we’re bringing back the story of a Toy Creators Academy grad who went from leading sales at Mattel to launching a heartfelt plush brand that’s changing bedtime for kids everywhere. Meet Gerardo D…

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Ivan Maisel on Notre Dame Great 35:25

3M ago35:25

35:25

One of America's best writers on his new book on ND legend Frank Leahy. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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#287: Looking Back at a TCA Alum’s Journey as a Game Designer with Chrissy Fagerholt 20:00

3M ago20:00

20:00

You know I love celebrating a toypreneur's full-circle moment and today’s episode is just that. We're revisiting the incredible journey of TCA alum Chrissy Fagerholt of EAP Toys and Games, from her very first appearance on this podcast to her latest game launch and ongoing success in self-publishing. This episode is a special highlight reel of Chri…

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Lea B. Olsen & Kristi Duncan Plante 33:39

3M ago33:39

33:39

Lea B. Olsen analyzes the Lynx, then Dawn Mitchell chats with Kristi Duncan Plante about being a decorated athlete & hockey mom. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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Episode 16: Jack Dyer- Good For The Good Of Good 51:23

3M ago51:23

51:23

Send us a text Welcome to a special episode where we dive into the life and legacy of one of craft beer’s most community-driven pioneers—Jack Dyer. In this episode, we explore Jack’s early life, shaped by giving and loving parents who instilled in him a deep sense of service and connection. From his formative years in a home that valued relationshi…

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Emily Leiker & Lea B. Olsen 1:14:19

3M ago1:14:19

1:14:19

Dawn and Jim introduce a new Lynx and women's basketball segment with Lea B. Olsen, then chat with Strib Vikings writer Emily Leiker. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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#286: 3 Surprising Ways To Use AI To Save Money In Your Toy Business 32:13

3M ago32:13

32:13

Toy people, I see you. You’re trying to run your business, deal with tariffs, build your brand, pitch your ideas, and maybe even answer customer questions at 3AM. But what if I told you that AI could actually help you make the most out of your time and money as you build your toy business? In this episode of Making It in The Toy Industry, I’m break…

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#285: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Michael Harring 1:03:09

3M ago1:03:09

1:03:09

Should you launch your toy on Kickstarter? That’s the question that we’re going to explore today. TCA alumni Michael Harring, launched Wayward Ghouls and his line of Squeaks toys on Kickstarter as what he says is “just a test.” With the goal of $49,000, Michael’s almost at 50% with a $19,000 pledge but he shared in our interview that for some reaso…

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Aurora boss Saara Hassoun 34:48

4M ago34:48

34:48

Dawn Mitchell chats with the Minnesota Aurora chief of staff about athlete's mental health and the team's latest initiative. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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#284: What the End of De Minimis Means for Toy Creators 36:00

4M ago36:00

36:00

For years, international toy sellers had a semi-secret shortcut to ship goods under $800 tariff free. That shortcut? Gone. And if you’re not prepared, your business could feel it fast. As of August 29th, the De Minimis Exemption was officially eliminated for many international shipments to the U.S. The change, quietly confirmed by U.S. Customs and …

1
Ben Williams' Amazing Story 39:27

4M ago39:27

39:27

The former Gopher and Viking lineman won the President's Lifetime Achievement Award from President Biden, is an advocate for organ donation after receiving a kidney that changed his life, is president of the MN NFLPA and lots more. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Ma…

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#283: 3 Costly Mistakes That Toy Creators Make with Factories 27:35

4M ago27:35

27:35

I’ll never forget the time I asked a factory to “just move the pen and scissors down a little” on a packaging layout. What came back? A sample where the entire arrangement was totally rearranged and the design I’d worked so hard on was completely off. Communicating with factories is one of the most exciting parts of the toy-making journey, but one …

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Annie Costabile on Lynx 22:41

4M ago22:41

22:41

Front Office sports reporter and former Chicago Sky beat writer Annie Costabile on the Lynx's success. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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#282: Why Toy Companies Are Switching to Manufacturing in India with Joshua Punin 49:03

4M ago49:03

49:03

Even with the recent increased tariffs on India, many of my clients and students have been seeking out new factory partnerships in this country. For decades, China has been the go-to destination for toy production, and they are indisputably the best at producing high quality goods quickly, but what happens when rising costs, shipping delays, and sh…

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Minnesota Tennis Star Max Exsted 20:20

4M ago20:20

20:20

Dawn Mitchell chats with Max Exsted of Savage about his big win at the Australian Open. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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Former Viking Ant Harris 33:31

4M ago33:31

33:31

Harris, a standout safety and engaging personality, on life after the NFL and the Vikings' prospects. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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#281: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Carrie Shaked 59:47

4M ago59:47

59:47

Building forts is a rite of passage for most kids and often the bane of organized parents. I can still picture my mom, coming home late from running her business, to find chairs flipped sideways, blankets draped across them, boxes forming doorways, and my brother and I, tucked away inside playing. It was 100% an eyesore to my parents and 1000% a sa…

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The Embodiment of Strength 37:14

5M ago37:14

37:14

WCCO Radio's Jordana Green is a Warrior! She joins Dawn to talk about her show, her battle with Leukemia and her strength to fight for her life, family, and her faith. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)…

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#280: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Courtney Smithee 44:13

5M ago44:13

44:13

Ever wondered why all baby toys are so bright and loud? all primary and neon colors? Aesthetic-focused moms are craving a change. In this episode of Making It in The Toy Industry, I’m bringing you a powerful coaching session that spotlights someone who's filling that market opportunity. Playcor is a brand on a mission to make toys that look as beau…

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#279: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Kieche O’Connell 52:36

5M ago52:36

52:36

The most innovative toy ideas I’ve ever seen come from people outside the toy industry. When I met Dr. Kieche O’Connell, the creator of Catoms, I was completely blown away. She found a way to merge her love of science and the periodic table into a collectible plush toy line. Kieche’s deep understanding of chemistry and the unique traits of each ele…

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Hot Stove Women's College Hockey 37:13

5M ago37:13

37:13

WCHA Commissioner Michelle McAteer joins Dawn to talk off-season hockey & her vision for the WCHA. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Natreum (natreum.com/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North

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#278: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Manish Punwani 53:25

5M ago53:25

53:25

Ever feel like your toy or game idea is too niche or catch yourself wondering if you’ve really got what it takes to break into the industry? Maybe you’ve been sitting on a killer concept, or you’re already knee-deep in prototypes and second guesses. In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, I’m chatting with TCA alum and current Accelerator…

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Alexa Score's Journey 40:35

5M ago40:35

40:35

Dawn Mitchell talks with Alexa Score, pro wakeboarder and TV host, about surviving illness and traveling the world. Thanks to Minnesota Masonic Charities (mnmasoniccharities.org/), Natreum (natreum.com/), Lexus of Wayzata (lexusofwayzata.com/), & Lexus of Maplewood (lexusofmaplewood.com/)By Talk North