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Vital Connections On Air

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Community-focused podcasts

Join us for Vital Connections On Air, a free podcast from University of Minnesota Extension Center for Community Vitality. We explore the trends and topics important to Minnesota communities and their leaders.

You'll hear about research from the University of Minnesota and Extension, as well as inspiring stories from local communities and organizations.

Podcast episodes

Wake up Minnesota with Victoria McWane-Creek on emotional intelligence

How do you lead authentically? Listen as we explore topics such as emotional intelligence, implicit bias for and against others, hospitable and welcoming communities, equity-minded leadership, and more.
 

Wake up Minnesota with Dr. Gloria ​Gonzalez-Morales on oppressive civility

Words have power. Listen as we explore topics such as oppressive civility, microaggression, advancing women and women of color into leadership positions, privilege, and more.
 

Advancing women’s leadership in rural Minnesota

Even as more women step into leadership roles, much work remains to reach true gender equity. Listen as we talk with Teresa Kittridge about supporting rural women in leadership.
 

Tourism and its impact on communities

Tourism can help communities economically and demographically. Listen to a panel discussion on how people and businesses are responding to challenges due to the pandemic.
 

Episode 25: Rural-urban workforce opportunities

Minnesotans in rural and urban areas help grow our diverse economy. Listen as we discuss current challenges and opportunities facing Minnesota's workforce.
 

Episode 24: Rural-urban economic interdependence

What do jobs and other economic factors look like in rural Minnesota? How about urban Minnesota? Listen as we discuss their top job industries and economic success.
 

Episode 23: A community approach to evaluating programs

Evaluating programs and initiatives is critical. Hear how listening to community members' stories and interviews can impact your evaluation process.
 

Episode 22: REVing up entrepreneurship

How do you inspire entrepreneurship in your community? Listen as we talk about a framework used to energize entrepreneurs in six southern Minnesota communities.
 

Episode 21: Conversations change Campbell

How can you make your community more appealing to others? Hear how conversations in Campbell, Minnesota led to big community changes in appearance and pride.
 

Episode 20: Community conversations

How do you discuss ideas and issues with your neighbors? Listen to Jody Horntvedt share nuts-and-bolts advice for creating healthy community conversations.
 


Stay informed

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