Welcome to “The Grovecast” – a monthly podcast hosted by the City of Cottage Grove, Minnesota. Our goal is to highlight how the City operates, what each department and division does, as well as discuss issues facing Cottage Grove. Hosted by Emily Schmitz and Phil Jents.
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TrueLens Community Media Podcasts
TrueLens Podcast is your monthly peek behind the lens! Hosted by Ann Schweisguth and a rotating cast of guest co-hosts, we explore the stories shaping our community—from a deeper dive into TrueLens Community Media productions to quirky history stories, upcoming events, and plenty of surprises. New episodes land the first Wednesday of the month—come for the stories, stay for the connection TrueLensMedia.org
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Public Works Director Ryan Burfiend joins us to talk about all things public works! From snowplows and streetlights to clean drinking water and brand-new treatment plants, Ryan’s team keeps Cottage Grove running smoothly in every season. He shares how growing up on a farm and job-shadowing a city engineer in high school set him on this path, plus t…
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Cottage Grove Chamber President and CEO Laurie Levine joins the show to celebrate all things local! We chat about the 328 Grill, a bit of Park High School history, and the exciting holiday events coming up — including the beloved Holiday Train. Plus, Laurie shares her take on tattoos, local businesses, and what makes south Washington County such a …
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Finance Director Brenda Malinowski joins us to talk about the Finance Department. Budgets, AAA bond ratings, and financial management are quite important, so we’re thrilled that Brenda gave us a little time to learn how it all works. Enjoy!By TrueLens Community Media
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Join Ann as she chats with Laurie Staiger, President & CEO of the Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce, for a fun and heartfelt conversation. You’ll hear: What Laurie really loves about the Chamber The story behind Woodbury’s oldest restaurant, Ronally’s Pasta and Pizza A powerful, emotional moment when a man suffers a heart attack while jogging and t…
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In this episode, we're joined by Mayor Laurie Elliott of Newport! We talk about the city’s new dog park, explore the local library and community center, and chat with Mayor Elliott about exciting future projects in the works. Plus, we’ll fill you in on some great upcoming events around town. Show Links: Newport Dog Park Newport Library and Communit…
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Public Safety Director Pete Koerner joins us to talk about, well, you guessed it: public safety! He’s in charge of police, fire, emergency management, and a whole lot more, so you can imagine he’s a busy guy. And yet he still finds time to savor a good bowl of cereal. Enjoy! CottageGroveMN.gov Podcast recorded by TrueLensMedia.org…
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In this episode of The Grovecast, Parks and Recreation Director Zac Dockter tells us how his team brings the fun. Are they anything like ‘Parks and Rec’ the TV show? Tune in to find out. Enjoy! CottageGroveMN.gov Podcast recorded by TrueLensMedia.orgBy TrueLens Community Media
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In this lively episode, Ann is joined by Mayor Keith Franke from St. Paul Park to talk about what sparked his passion for local politics and community service. Together, they dive into some fun TrueLens video stories — from Mik Mart’s hometown ice cream business to rising country star Hailey James. And don’t miss the trip down memory lane as they u…
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In this episode of The Grovecast, City Administrator Jennifer Levitt joins us to share insights on what it takes to keep Cottage Grove running smoothly. From big-picture planning to everyday problem-solving, hear how her work shapes the city’s future. Enjoy! CottageGroveMN.gov Podcast recorded by TrueLensMedia.org…
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Mayor Myron Bailey joins Ann for a hometown-flavored episode! They reminisce about growing up in Cottage Grove—think Cheap Skate, Pine Hill Elementary, and the old dairy store - where nickle candy was totally a thing. They also check out TrueLens videos featuring Riggs the therapy dog, the mystery of renamed streets, and local legend Gary Spooner. …
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You may know of the Mayor. You may see him around town. But in this episode, we dive into what it’s actually like to be Mayor. Spoiler alert: it’s a lot of work, and the job doesn’t come with a limo. Enjoy! CottageGroveMN.gov Podcast recorded by TrueLensMedia.orgBy TrueLens Community Media
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Episode #1 Join TrueLens Community Media Executive Director Ann Schweisguth with special guest co-host Mayor Anne Burt of Woodbury Hop aboard this lively episode of the TrueLens Podcast, where we zoom through all things local—from high-tech transit to hometown history! 🚐 First stop: the Metro Micro Bus—a ride-share-style service that’s like Uber or…
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The one where we try a podcast. But why do a podcast? The Grovecast will be a new opportunity to hear more casual conversations about city services and why we do what we do, while also giving listeners a peek behind the scenes to learn a little about the people who provide those services. Emily and Phil introduce themselves, the podcast format, and…
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