The Kindness Chronicles: Recent Episodes
Kevin Gorg, Steve Brown, John Schwietz
We live in a world dominated by stories of divisiveness. The Kindness Chronicles hopes to give the world a dose of the "Minnesota Nice" it desperately needs. Hosted by Fox Sports North's Kevin Gorg, Steve Brown of Johnny Clueless fame and John Schwietz (a guy you've never heard of), the Kindness Chronicles delivers stories of kindness through the lens of Minnesotans who share their personal backstories and celebrate those who influenced them to become the people they are today.
When an A/C emergency collides with podcast night, you invite the technician to pull up a chair. In this episode of The Kindness Chronicles, the crew meets Mitchell—the HVAC tech who arrived to rescue John’s aging air conditioner and unexpectedly became the perfect guest.
What starts as a house call quickly becomes a conversation about working through brutal Minnesota heat, climbing into scorching attics, making late-night service calls, and helping stressed-out families get comfortable again.
Mitchell shares what it’s like to be the person everyone is counting on when the temperature climbs, including why a home holding at 74 degrees during extreme heat may actually be doing just fine, the importance of changing a furnace filter, and how he handles frustrated customers with a simple philosophy: kill ’em with kindness.
The night also delivers a true small-world moment when Mitchell reveals a surprising connection to Kevin Gorg’s family. Add in hockey talk with KG, golf, movie butter, and plenty of laughs, and you have an episode that reminds us how meaningful—and unexpected—human connection can be.
It’s a funny, warm conversation about patience, gratitude, great customers, and why a little kindness goes a long way—especially when the A/C is out.
Subscribe to The Kindness Chronicles for more stories that make the world a little kinder.
⚽💧 What if the world's greatest team wasn't playing for a trophy...but for clean water?
In this special episode of The Kindness Chronicles, we welcome the Salesforce and WASH for Life volunteers who traveled to Malawi, Africa, for what we call The World Cup of Kindness. Representing five countries across four continents, this international team united with one mission: to bring hope, dignity, and clean water to children and communities in need.
Together, they:
💙 Celebrated 7 new well boreholes providing easier access to clean water for more than 2,000 students
🌱 Supported regenerative agriculture at Tembwe Farm
🏫 Improved schools and dormitories through volunteer service and donor generosity
🎁 Delivered school supplies, clothing, bedding, soccer equipment, and countless acts of kindness
Along the way, they were welcomed with joyful songs, traditional dances, heartfelt hospitality, and unforgettable moments that forever changed their perspective on service, gratitude, and what it truly means to be part of one team. You'll hear inspiring stories from "Coach 'Papa' Steve," Jon and Julia Neustedter, Phillip, Sarah, and other volunteers as they reflect on a journey that proved kindness has no borders. Because in this World Cup...Everyone wins.
If this episode inspires you, please Like, Subscribe, and Share to help us spread more stories that celebrate the power of kindness.
KindnessChronicles #WorldCupOfKindness #Malawi #WASHForLife #Salesforce #CleanWater #Volunteer #Kindness #Africa #Service #Hope #GivingBack
What happens after the spotlight fades?
On this episode of the Kindness Chronicles, John, Steve, and Jeff welcome former Limited Warranty lead guitarist Erik Newman, joining them from his off-grid ranch on Hawaii’s Big Island. Erik reflects on his remarkable journey—from learning guitar as a teenager at Bloomington Lincoln High School, to helping transform Limited Warranty from a local cover band into one of the Twin Cities’ most beloved original acts. He shares stories about recruiting the late Dale Goulet, whose voice helped define the band’s signature sound, winning Star Search, touring with legendary artists, and experiencing the whirlwind of sudden success.
But this conversation goes far beyond the band’s glory days. Erik opens up about life after Limited Warranty: forming Holiday Ranch, stepping away from music, navigating divorce and remarriage, becoming a father, moving to Hawaii, and rediscovering his passion for songwriting with his current project, Space Hug. It’s an honest conversation about friendship, reinvention, gratitude, and the courage to embrace life’s unexpected chapters—proving that sometimes the most meaningful part of the journey begins after the applause fades.
If you enjoy stories of resilience, kindness, and new beginnings, be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who could use a little encouragement.
Reviving a Marching Band Legacy: How Teachers Build Community in Forest Lake | The Kindness Chronicles
Steve and Jeff fill in for John and discuss Steve’s volunteer experience at the Special Olympics USA Games ESPN Unified Sports Challenge at Allianz Field, where he accompanied producer Jimmy "Jam" Harris and various celebrity sideline coaches.
They then welcome Forest Lake educators Jake Matheson and Katie DuBois to discuss how music and marching band create belonging as the U.S. nears its 250th birthday. Jake recounts starting on tuba, being mentored by teachers like Sandy Briggs and Rich Hahn, advocating to restore Forest Lake’s marching band, and later rebuilding it in 2016 from a program that had disappeared to 140 members, supported by fundraising and scholarships. Katie describes how her passion for the clarinet evolved, joining the University of Minnesota marching band, and helping design field formations for her alma mater, while both emphasize teacher support, community, and inclusion.
Minnesota Nice at Lionel Richie & Earth, Wind & Fire + A Day with Jimmy Jam at Special Olympics
The hosts recap attending the Earth, Wind & Fire and Lionel Richie concert in St. Paul, including memories of their first concert together decades ago, Earth, Wind & Fire’s energetic set and deep catalog, and a merch moment that coincided with seeing a recent KCP guest. Lionel Richie opened the tour with “Hello” but appeared unwell, sweating and dizzy, performed “Dancing on the Ceiling” seated, called an unexpected intermission, and was later reported hospitalized; a band member announced the show couldn’t continue.
The hosts highlight how the crowd responded with concern and applause rather than anger, calling it a proud example of Minnesota kindness. They also discuss why artists start tours in Minnesota, tangent into guitar solo rankings, and share a story about guiding Jimmy Jam at an ESPN Special Olympics Unified Sports Challenge, describing him as gracious and dedicated, including his weight-loss journey and family reconnection.
In this episode, we welcome strategic executive leader and event producer Kelly Olson, joined by her husband Eric Scott Olson, to discuss her career in live events and television and her current work on the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in the Twin Cities.
Kelly shares her origin story working on the 1991 Special Olympics opening ceremony, including an early assignment to find a piano for Prince, and traces her path through major productions, including Oprah (six years), LA events, and later PR work after leaving New York following 9/11 and anthrax concerns.
The conversation highlights the scale of the USA Games, unified sports growth, venues, opening and closing ceremonies, celebrity participants, and the impact of mentorship, networking, and service-minded production.
In this episode, the hosts reflect on KG’s father’s memorial and the support from family, friends, and organizations, then share details for the July 12 Semper Fi Flo hole-in-one challenge fundraiser at Loggers Trail Golf Course in Stillwater.
The conversation features special guest Jeff Meslow, a 25-year NCAA football official and 10-year Big Ten line judge, who describes his path from starting as a college freshman to working major rivalry games and the Big Ten Championship, balancing officiating with a full-time job, and the behind-the-scenes production of televised games.
Meslow discusses officiating pressures, communication with coaches, controversial calls like holding, replay review via the Big Ten command center, fan behavior, and memorable human moments including Iowa’s Children’s Hospital wave, a MN Gophers moment of kindness and more.
At a Minnesota Masonic Charities scholarship event, the CEO explains a scholarship program designed to recognize everyday kindness by having students nominate a peer and share the award. The program’s purpose is to uncover and celebrate stories of service that often go unnoticed, highlighting how simple actions can create ripple effects across schools and communities. Throughout the night, several nominations are read and discussed, featuring special young people who consistently put others first through inclusion, support during difficult times, volunteering, leadership, and service to people with disabilities, younger students, seniors, and community organizations. Families and guests reflect on the values behind these actions and the importance of compassion, forgiveness, and noticing those who feel alone. The event concludes by thanking attendees and encouraging future students to keep nominating quiet difference-makers.
On The Kindness Chronicles podcast, John Schwietz surprises Winona State student Addison Nash—called while she’s on a boat—after her friend Sienna nominates her for a Minnesota Masonic Charities Selfless Scholarship, awarding $5,000 shared between Addison and Sienna; they discuss Addison’s empathy, the death of her brother Tommy from sudden cardiac arrest, and the family’s Be Like Tommy nonprofit that provides acts of kindness and “joyful experiences,” including sending campers to YMCA Camp Manitou. The episode then features Mario Esteb celebrating his Syracuse graduation and plans to pursue documentary development work, followed by his mother Rose describing a faith experience at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in La Crosse, Wisconsin, where repeated photos and video showed a moving light-like “apparition” pointing toward crosses; staff and nuns called it a miracle and noted the “Miracle of Roses” connection to her name. The hosts close with John recounting a claustrophobic MRI experience, mentioning newfound fear of heights, and offering condolences for Kevin Gorg after his father’s death and upcoming service.
KCP Crew Reacts to Eric Church’s “Six Strings of Life” UNC 2026 Commencement The KC Crew discuss graduation season and family updates, including a daughter graduating from the University of Minnesota, then do a “reaction video” to Eric Church’s 2026 University of North Carolina commencement speech. Church frames life like a six-string guitar, urging graduates to keep key “strings” in tune: faith, family, spouse/partner, ambition and resilience, community and belonging, and staying true to yourself amid social pressure, stressing that “the world does not need another cover song.” The hosts reflect on how the message applies beyond graduates, share tangents about music and community ties like reunions, and emphasize being honest about setbacks and failures as part of real life.
The KC Crew learned that The Kindness Chronicles was ranked #2 on Feedspot’s “30 Best Kindness Podcasts for 2026,” THANK YOU, listeners! They quickly review the Masonic Children’s Hospital gala that raised about $2.5 million, as an example of kindness through philanthropy. The episode then focuses on an extended discussion of The Blues Brothers, including Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi’s origin story from Second City, the film’s role in reviving and spotlighting blues musicians and Chicago culture, standout scenes and cast members (Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Cab Calloway, Ray Charles, Carrie Fisher, John Candy, Frank Oz, Steven Spielberg), and themes of redemption, loyalty, friendship, and joyful comedy through music. Check it out.
In the 200th episode of The Kindness Chronicles, the hosts welcome back storyteller and former advertising executive Neal Ford to discuss how his ad career shaped his focus on emotionally resonant communication and how a viral TikTok story launched his social media storytelling. Neal recounts a 1969 experience when strangers helped his family after a car breakdown near Bakersfield, restoring his father’s faith in people and later reframing it with the moon landing. The conversation explores skepticism about performative “kindness videos,” the value of anonymous giving, and examples of quietly impactful generosity. They discuss social media’s role in spreading either cynicism or connection, how technology and algorithms can be weaponized, and a positive AI example from IKEA retraining staff. The hosts highlight Minnesota Masonic Charities’ Selfless Scholar program and Neal’s StoryFire.net course, including an AI coaching component and his talk, “The ROI of Kindness.”
After a couple of “LONG Stories,” we explore the oxytocin-inducing storytelling of the late great Rob Reiner
Our scheduled guest was unable to join us, SO…More Wild talk (that’s all KG knows…and movies), and Steve leads us in another one of his Kindness Comebacks game.
A playoff preview for the Minnesota Wild with KG followed by game show host, Steve Brown, and his Kindness comebacks.
The KCP Crew welcomes Anytime Fitness co-founder Chuck Runyon, who reflects on growing up on the East Side of St. Paul and his journey in building Anytime Fitness, which comprises nearly 6,000 global locations. Chuck discusses the challenges and innovations during COVID closures, and outlines the company’s emphasis on training, nutrition, recovery, senior fitness programs, storytelling-driven culture, servant leadership practices, and the company's “Bleed Purple” tradition.
Regions Hospital Trauma Department faces incredibly difficult cases every day. We visit with an important member of that team.
John's dad passed away last week. The fellas reflect on the extraordinary kindness that can often come during the most difficult times.
The whole gang is in studio. Buckle up for a bunch of nonsense. JJ McCarthy, 21 cents, Would you rather and a special Dr. Who clip.
Maybe our favorite episode ever. Our OLD pal (emphasis on the OLD), Mike Newcome introduces us to two very impressive students from Ukraine, Alisa and Dasha are about as impressive as two 16-year olds could be. Wow!
Sports sports sports...is your whole life about sports/ This week it is! KG is back and there was a lot to cover.
Part 2 of our visit with Billy focuses on his battle with Focal Dystonia and his decision to switch from a world-class right handed guitarist into a world class southpaw. Unreal story.
World-class guitarist, composer and producer, Billy McLaughlin joins us in studio in a fascinating two part interview.
sorry we missed a week. We bet you survived. No KG. No Intern Jeff. No problem.Nate Bargaetze. Sydney Sweeney. Would you rather- KC Edition. Thanks for listening.
Read, Brush, Floss, Repeat... one way to mitigate the chances of Alzheimer's Disease. In a science and syllable heavy episode, we learn a bit about the role that oral health can play in preventing Alzheimer's Disease and the lab at the University of Minnesota researching this issue. A lab funded by the CAD (Curing Alzheimer's Disease) Foundation.
We visit with Mahtomedi High School Student, Jaylen Jones, aspiring entrepreneur with a big heart. Learn more about his unique idea of connecting high school students with seniors in need of cleaning services and companionship.
We visit with Professor Quentin Schulze, author of the best selling, "You'll Shoot Your Eye Out." He shares stories of Jean Shepherd, American storyteller, humorist known for the film, "A Christmas Story," which he narrated and co-scripted. He also wrote "The Great American Fourth of July and Other Disasters," which seemed appropriate for this time of year. Professor Shultze taught a class with Jean Shepherd on storytelling
In a "Best of" episode, we visit with author Steve Adelman about his career in the Night Club business that took him from Boston to New York to LA to Singapore to Memphis. The characters he encountered and the kindness (yes, kindness) he experienced along the way.
KG, Steve, Intern Jeff and John visit with St. Thomas Academy/St. Thomas College (OHHHHH GOOOOD for YOOOOU) legend (Actually, his dad was the legend), Nick Flood. They discuss Father's Day, the U.S. Open and start to reminisce about their friend (and actual legend) Vince Flynn as the 12th anniversary of his passing nears (June 19) Part 1 of 2. We had a lot to discuss.
Eyota Minnesota is the home of two really good guys, Brooks and Zach. We surprise Zach with a Selfless Scholar Scholarship.
We visit with the most delightful Curler, Singer, Motivational Speaker, Philanthropist, Exercise influencer, Regan Birr about her organization that supports Lupus research. Remember when George Costanza thought he had Lupus? We address this on today's KC.
It's our favorite "season," Road Construction. The "KC Clown Car" addresses the challenges of finding kindness in an otherwise dumpster fire of traffic in the Twin Cities.
Fascinating look at the impact music literacy can have on a developing brain. We also review KG's brilliant Kentucky Derby prognostication.
The KC crew visits with multiple organ donation recipient, Sonja Dalbey. The KINDNESS of an organ donor cannot be overstated.
Kind Lips founder, Josh Neuman, joins us to share his unique twist on lip balm with meaning.
People have been asking...so, we visit with our first and only, intern, Mario Esteb. He checks in from Syracuse University.
What week. The Masters, the Wild and another fun fundraiser to promote. we are joined by Roger McNear and our friend, Jeff Hoffman IN STUDIO! Big fun.
Tammy Diehn, Executive Director of 2B Continued, introduces us to the organization she founded to help young people in west central Minnesota.
Former Kare 11 and HGTV personality, Joan Steffend and her award-winning documentarian husband, Joe Brandmeier discuss an important project they are developing (with longtime KSTP Sports Anchor, Joe Schmit). It’s the heartwarming story of a special friendship between a St. Paul High School Student and a new student at his school…Minnesota Twin and MLB Hall of Famer, Joe Mauer and his friend Mike, a new classmate at Cretin Derham Hall, who just happened to be blind.
To be or not to be Nice or Kind...THAT is the question. The KC Crew tackle this important (sorta) topic. Of course, we also discuss donuts and bad mustaches. You got this! (Barf) That comment will make sense when you give it a listen.
We cover a lot of ground. A.I., Grandpa Gorgie, hockey tournament, mustaches, Sydney Sweeney and of course, donuts.
We deep dive into Mardi Gras and the goal of Fat Tuesday kindness that is often overlooked amid all the fun. We also discuss the Oscars...briefly. It was more than enough.
Nothing? Or a little bit of everything. Wooden Sticks meets Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives (Donut Edition) meets Chicago Law to Entertainment Tonight and back to Donuts. Of course,a dose of Kindness along the way.
NOTE: Be sure to mark your calendars for the first Kindness Chronicles LIVE Podcast celebrating the Selfless Scholars. Wednesday, May 21st at 5:30 at the Masonic Heritage Center's ives Auditorium. Free Event. Please email John at John.Schwietz@mnmasonic.org to reserve your tickets
After a brief episode of Wooden Sticks with KG and the Bob Dylan Chronicles with Steve, we visit with Founder and Executive Director, Sara Meslow, from Camp Odayin, a unique camp for children with heart disease. A program that not only provides a wonderful experience for the kids, but incredible resources for their families.
The KC Crew visits with Retired Army Colonel, Trauma Surgeon, Dr. Greg Beilman about a unique University of Minnesota program that capitalizes on the talent and experience of Army Medics and recruiting them for Medical School. The need for physicians in rural Minnesota is quite critical; moreover, this program could help address the need.
The KC Crew discuss the role we all play in mentoring kindness in children and conclude with a visit with University of Minnesota researcher, Dr. Brendan Moriarty and his work with immunotherapy and its potential impact on curing pediatric cancers like osteosarcoma. Smart Minnesota guy!
How does one combat a world dominated by social media and the divisiveness that stems therefrom? Manipulate your social media algorithms and feed your need for OXYTOCIN. Start with just one day...Sunday. Let's call it OxytoSUNDAY.
After a cross-over episode of KG's Wooden Sticks, the KC Crew discuss the need for connecting with our elders, especially those in Senior Care facilities.
Minnesota Wild Asst. Equipment Manager, Matt Benz (And John's cousin) has a unique perspective about the extraordinary kindness of Minnesota Wild players. The Wild has a long tradition and culture of kindness. Matt shares some great stories. We also discuss the important topics like:
1. Is it a "Jersey or Sweater?"
2. Are they "Breezers or Hockey Pants?"
3. Are Rock-n-Roll roadies like NHL Equipment Managers?
We ring in the new year with a discussion on Lindor truffles, McDonald's sausage and other compelling topics.
The KC Crew discusses a variety of topics from Hurricane Helene to Customer Service recognition. Steve offers a new KC Challenge...Support the Arts. (Apparently Culinary Arts don't count) :(
We enjoy a chat with legendary St. Paul Pioneer Press Columnist, former Minnesota Twin and all-around great guy Charley Walters
Crossover event with Minnesota Masonic Histories and Mysteries. We visit with Shawn Kor, Executive Director of Eagle's Healing Nest.
We take a few moments to reflect on some of the "light" that came out of one of the darkest days in US history, September 11, 2001.
Fashion-forward 14-year-old, Carter Finseth tells us about his "kindness brand,' Be. Real. Be You. Be Nice.
The Great Minnesota Get Together...a combination of food, fun and apparently FIGHTS on the Midway. We discuss the Kindness experienced at the fair and the unfortunate chaos we also endured.
In a world dominated by political divisiveness, St. Paul/Minnesota lost one of the least divisive, most lovable "politicians" to ever hold office. George Latimer was THAT guy. His dear friend, and John's "Uncle Harry" joins us in remembering a St. Paul legend.
KG (finally) got us a good one. Kidding, of course. We discover a really important part of Paul Allen (KFAN's 9-Noon host/Voice of the Minnesota Vikings/ Canterbury Track Announcer). For those who know him well, his gift of calling a play, calling a race and just plain storytelling is second to none. For the Kindness Chronicles, his gift of hospitality (after experiencing countless technical difficulties on our end) was on full display. WHAT. A. GUY.
Do you remember when they had commercials like, "this week on a very special Blossom?" This is one of those weeks. Heather and Randy Bacchus share the story of their son's tragic story, the perils of "today's marijuana" on the developing brain and how it has led to the development of Be Extraordinary. Be You.
We visit with EJ and Nicole McNaulty about their unique organization that honors their late son, Michael, by spreading kindness thru incredible candles that deliver a powerful message. Check them out at AKindness.co.
We weren't able to connect with Taylor for our live podcast, but we explore the Taylor Swift phenomenon and the role kinds plays in her "brand."
Buckle up for the enthusiasm of Tommy McBrayer, the Founder and CEO of aptly named non-profit, Don't Shoot Guns, Shoot Hoops. Living with gun violence in Minneapolis, Tommy, a two-time gun violence survivor turned his trauma into hope for hundereds of young men and boys in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
We let Steve sit this one out. Kevin and John discuss a Father's Day US Open, the perils of hosting a podcast called "The Kindness Chronicles" and the importance of having the right guys "In the Room," for teams like the Twins and The Wild.
John's dad, Jack joins us for a fun chat about fatherhood and favorite TV and Movie Dads.
THANK YOU, LISTENERS! Depending on how you count, this is our 100th episode to be uploaded. We have a bit of fun reminiscing!
We are all in-studio for University of Minnesota Basketball player, and budding media personality, Parker Fox, as he shares some stories about his "non-linear" journey thru 7 (soon-to-be 8) years as a college athlete. From All-American to a torn ACL on one leg to a torn ACL on the other to Minnesota Golden Gopher Basketball Captain. He discusses everything from the transfer portal to the big business of college athletics to a couple of U of M graduate-level courses that would make just about everyone blush. Great guest. Great guy.
We discuss a variety of topics, from Kevin's "Preposterous Statements" hall-of-fame record, to Minnesota's extraordinary culture of philanthropy to a few"Don't Be THAT Guy tips.
For 25 years, John Sweeney has been changing human behavior as a Keynote Speaker within the biggest businesses in the world, including Microsoft, Target, Hilton, United Health Group, General Mills, Facebook, Apple, and Bank First. He has shared the stage with George Bush, Sr., Deepak Chopra, Betty White, Steve Ballmer, and Mark Zuckerberg.
Sweeney has written four books. A quote from Sweeney, taken from the book Innovation at the Speed of Laughter: 8 Secrets to World Class Idea Generation, appeared as cup quote #183 in Starbucks "The Way I See It Program.".[1] The quote read: "Improvisers don't look at change as an obstacle; we look at it as fuel. we know that the next great idea lies just on the other side of the change. We are constantly asking ourselves, 'What can I do to incite change?' Well?"
John Sweeney is well known for his MN Timberwolves superfan character, deemed "Jiggly Boy," which was a stunt that went viral and garnered over 500 million views as well as pickup in all major US sports media. His website Jigglyboy.com has funded hundreds of surgeries for children through Smile Network, International.
One of our favorite kindness storytellers, Neal Foard joins us. We have been following Neal's messages on a variety of platforms and we were fortunate to land Neal as a guest. Sincerely great person making a difference in our world. Great get, Steve (our cold caller.) ;)
Remember when the 18-wheeler drove into the peaceful protesters on the 35W Bridge. Our guest, Miles, not only witnessed the incident, but played a central role in saving the driver some serious injury or worse. Welcome to the Courage Chronicles.
Author and Advocate, Jennifer Gasner, shares her journey with Friedrich's Ataxia and a chance encounter with a very generous Dave Matthews
Irishman Michael Dempsey joins us again to discuss the significance of St. Patrick's Day and how it seems to be just about the only universally accepted cultural celebration that hasn't fallen victim to challenges of cultural appropriation.
It is pretty simple...cancel culture is real. We believe the solution is simply offering kindness and grace. Our friend, and loyal listener, Michael Dempsey joins us in studio for this interesting subject.
Dolly Parton once said, "You Can't Fail at Being Yourself." Make yourself the best version possible. That is what Civility School is all about.
Burnsville native, KG and John discuss the tragic deaths of the Burnsville Police Officers and Paramedic. Our pal, Steve is on assignment.
KG in Vegas, Steve in Mexico, John in North Minneapolis retrieving his stolen car. A big, fun week for 2/3 of the KC Crew. Also, "Galentine's Day!" It is an annual event. Some lovely stories of kindness from which we can all learn and be inspired. Enjoy.
Our buddy, Steve, is on assignment, so we decided to run the episode that introduced there KC to the Red-Pants Rock Star, Steve Brown. It also introduced KC to (Johnny) Clueless Nation. Back next week with a new "Galentine's" episode.
Busy week for KC Crew. Travel and Work commitments. If you haven't heard our first show (Pre-Steve Brown), please give it a listen.
This week we discuss all things Canvas Health with Julia Yach, Director of Development and bunch of other stuff at Canvas. Canvas has 35 programs that provide support to people of all ages. We discuss their programs in the mental health space and a unique Embedded Social Worker Program with the Columbia Heights Police Department.
PTATC Event Coordinator, Lisa Mushett and past "participant," Josh Anderson discuss the exceptionally successful Tennis event that benefits Children's Minnesota Hospital and a variety of other great causes.
WHAT. A. GUY. They don't get much better than this one. We visit with Former Golden Gopher Football player, Casey O'Brien. "Impressive,..Inspiring...Important." There really are not words to describe how much Casey's story touched us. Grab a tissue. We did.
We visit with members of the Boime Family who have experienced the joys of working in the special education field. We also check in with KG and the Gorg Girls...heading to a movie.
A little Holiday Chatter from the KC Crew. Wishing you all Merry Christmas or whatever you may celebrate this time of year.
This one went a bit long. We catch ups with KG and the surging Minnesota Wild. KG provides a hotel review. We apologize to theHM class of 87 and connect again with recently retired St. Paul Police Sergeant, Mike McGinn. Pack a lunch for this one.
Timing is everything. The enthusiasm we have for the Vikings may have been a bit premature, as this was recorded a couple weeks ago. Give it a listen and enjoy the irony of some of the excitement.
This week we invite two of the "great guys" from our Hill Murray High School days..Mike McGinn and Tony Yocum. Turns out, one is a legit super-hero and the other one prayed for cold weather. Cold weather that ultimately led to extraordinary generosity.. These two guys are the embodiment of "Kindness Chronicles."
We decided to replay one of our favorites this week. Scheduling conflicts and technical challenges also contributed to our decision to go with a "Best of KC."
We've had some cool guests over the years...this one is FOR SURE the Grooviest. Musician/Rock Star, Willie Wisely and Misha from Open Arms MN discuss the First Annual "Show of Thanks," scheduled for Sunday, November 19 at the Granada Theater in Uptown Minneapolis
Maybe things are BETTER than it seems. We explore the Positivity Chronicles with an entertaining, "Glass-is-Hal- Full-Guy," Jack Stahlmann. Impactful Keynote Speaker Social Media Recluse, Ex-Huffpost-er and Generally an Expert at Making Meetings Less Boring.
A Kindness Chronicles salute to one of the good guys from our community. It has been 10 years since we lost an incredible storyteller, Author Vince Flynn. More notably, we lost a really kind person. We visit with Vince's roommate, College of St. Thomas friend and teammate, JB Lloyd. We realize that Vince had a lot of really good friends. Many closer friends. We were all just fortunate that Vince consistently treated us with a kindness that made us feel like we mattered to him. .
We spend a little time on the scariest of topics...politics and address some of the lighter side of the season...halloween candy!
Our Avid Listener (we have one!) shares some notes about the program and quickly endears himself to the KC Crew.
After a brief hiatus, the KC Crew discuss the Minnesota StatenFair, Back to School, and a variety of other random topics.
Summer activities have gotten the best of us and our schedules. Please enjoy another "best of" episode with one of our most popular guests, singer-songwriter, Justin Ploof.
Johnny Price, a talented and thoughtful student and baseball player with the Minnesota Blizzard Program and Lakeview South High School passed away tragically in December of 2015. He left a legacy of kindness that is celebrated thru the JP4. Jeff Huth, Executive Director of the JP4 Foundation discusses the growing impact the JP4 Foundation is making in our community.
Molly Ambrose, Founder and Chief ENTHUSIAST (With a CAPITAL "E") of Semper Fi Flo joins us to tell us about her unique program that provides support for Marines abroad and their families at home.
We return from a couple weeks of "hiatus" to learn about Children's HeartLink, a Minnesota non-profit providing pediatric cardiac care all over the world. Amazing organization.
Zero Show prep for this one, but it was a fun conversation about some of our favorite local eateries. Also reviewed the recent grad party.
Another great source of Oxytocin are moments of kindness is sports. The KC crew reminisce about some moments that got them "where it counts."
John had the opportunity to visit with a few Mahtomedi Baseball junior players in advance of their trip to the State Tournament. The discussion included recognition of mentors, sportsmanship and a "don't be that guy" sportsmanship conversation.
An energetic show with Garage Logic's The Rookie. We discuss Second Stork, a wonderful non-profit organization near and dear to Rookie. Lots of guys talking over each other on this one. 🙄
The KC Crew review their top oxytocin inducing movies and moments. We also visit with Abigail and Adella from Maple Grove High School, two of 32 recipients of the MMC Selfless Scholarship (Kindness Scholarship)
MEMORIAL DAY SPECIAL EDITION, Jane Rydholm and Sam Daly from Believet join us. Believe is a non-profit organization that provides service dogs for Veterans. Incredible organization
The whole team PLUS Mario,the Intern are crammed in the BUNK BED STUDIO for a fun chat with a sweet guy, (BK Kowalski) who wrote a sweet book about a sweet dog, Busco. The lessons learned are in lock step with our goal to give the world a dose of the Minnesota Nice that it desperately needs.
As the school year comes to a close, and young people contemplate their first-year college experience, we asked Syracuse Student and Podcast Host, Mario Esteb, to join us in studio to discuss the rollercoaster experience that most college students experience as a first-year student. Also, we surprise Chanhassen High School Student and Football Player, Kameron Zurek, recipient of a 2023 Minnesota Masonic Charities Selfless Scholarship. He nominated teammate Tyler Smith and shares a bit about his special friendship with team manager, Wesley Parker.
John deals with a post-Covid, Peter Brady crack in his voice (forgive us) but offers up some solid TV suggestions. KG mourns the end of another tough Wild season, but celebrates the Kentucky Derby and the opening of Canterbury. We reflect on culinary highlights from NHL travel and Steve reflects on his culinary highlights during his active touring days with Johnny Clueless.
We are joined by Lisa Shop, a volunteer at a couple of very important organizations, Big Sisters and the Minneapolis Crisis Nursery. KG calls in from Dallas while doing some Mall-Walking.
Keith Reierson, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Minnesota gives us a peek behind the Masonic curtain and shares a few insights about the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Minnesota.
We visit with Krista O'Malley, founder of My PowerPak, a community-based digital caregiving platform that empowers ordinary people to give and receive extraordinary support when it is needed most. Fascinating!
Kevin Grog (KG) joins us after being "on assignment" for far too long. We review the Minnesota State High School Hockey Tournament tradition, Bud Grant's passing and we visit with Lakeview Health Foundation Executive Director, Paul Erickson, about a special event at the end of March.
We visit with Life Coach and Best-Selling Author of "Name, Claim & Reframe," Andrea DeWitt.
We discuss the State of the Union Address and visit with Life Coach, Jessica Horton. A very enlightening discussion about coaching and the importance of being kind to oneself.
We visit with innovative Educator Leigh Anderson, Principal Mark Menier and some remarkable 4th Graders from Willow Lane Elementary School in White Bear Lake about the Minnow Tank Program
we visit with Jenny Floria, Communications and Engagement Director at Crescent Cove. We discuss the role that many Minnesota Twins legends have had on the development of this wonderfully magical place for children and their families.
We visit with Niki Lampi, Director of the Minnesota Masonic Clinic for Childhood Communications Disorders (MMCCCD). She share some stories that demonstrate just how meaningful our support is for the children and families we serve.. Heartwarming!
Masonic philanthropy in the spotlight. While Steve and KG are on assignment, John visits with KFV about the work being done at the Masonic Children's Hospital, Masonic Cancer Center and the new Masonic Institute for the Developing Brain.
We visit with veteran Band Manager, Miki Mulvahillk and discuss her fascinating career in the music business. We review another story of MN Nice that made national news, we have another "Don't be that guy," segment and we check in with our traveling corespondent, Kevin Gorg, on the road with the Wild.
We meet with Author and NYC/LA Nightclub legend Steve Adelman about his book Nocturnal Admissions. Fun interview!
Fascinating interview! Pack a lunch as we uncover a lot in this extended version of the KC. From the Kensington Runestone to the mysterious Denver Airport to the JFK assassination. We cover a lot here. Wild Ride!
We hear from Salty (Linda), Crafty (Karen), Pretty (Patty), Smarty (Brenda) and Spicy (Denise).
What does it take to make, maintain, cultivate and celebrate a friendship? Somehow, a group of 17 friends have done just that for more than 35 years. No one has been "voted off the island."...and probably never will. We explore the secrets behind this special group of GNOmies, who have made an impact on the lives of MANY they have encountered over the years.
Musician Justin Ploof shares the story behind his song," The Weight they Carried," a tribute to Vietnam Veterans.
The KC Crew start a 2022 Kindness Bingo Card. Share your ideas for additional Bingo squares.
We are joined by Shadia Tobkin, who tells about Girls Rise Up. An wonderful organization that serves young girls who have lost their moms. A lovely person with a heart-warming mission.
We visit with our friend, Shirley De la Torre and we cover a wide variety of topics...from the role that Facebook and Social media can play in spreading hope and joy. We discuss the importance of gratitude and Shirley tells us about her work in animal welfare.
In this abbreviated episode of the KC, we have a little fun at a friend's expense. We get to know our Sponsor, State Farm Agent Brian Youmans. Steve puts Brian thru the Clueless Quiz and his final answer will cause either a warm heart or an aggressive eye roll. You be the judge.
The Salvation Army's Executive Director of Development, Brian Molohon and our favorite elf, Krisi Bailey discuss an annualChristmas tradition for the KC Crew and their friends, volunteering at the SA Toy Shop and other Salvation Army programs. We learn why John must wear a disguise if he ever plans to return to the Toy Shop.
The KC explores Sportsmanship with a couple of great stories. We review Zach Parise's return to X and he gets a truly Minnesota welcome.
We are joined by Canterbury Park Director of Media Relations, Jeff Maday and reminisce about the Legendary Local PERSONALITY (all caps!), Dark Star. A Legend in many ways, especially in the way he treated people. This was really fun!
St. Paul native and Sirius XM personality, The Catholic Guy, Lino Rulli joins us. This guy is a lot of fun. Check it out.
The KC Crew explores Kindness in Culture. This first installment is a brief look at Kindness in Movies. We hope to look further into the role of kindness in pop culture, from movies to music, from sports to social media.
Fascinating journey of historian, Peter Gorton, and his incredible efforts to restore the legacy of Negro-League baseball" SHOULD BE LEGEND," John Donaldson. UPDATE: Since our recording, it was announced that in the coming weeks, John Donaldson will be considered for induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. VERY EXCITING DEVELOPMENT.
We've done sports. We've done music. We've done non-profits. Today, we do business. Best Man (in more ways than one) and CEO Patrick Hawkins gives us a little perspective on the role of kindness in building culture in a business setting.
October is breast cancer awareness month. Cancer survivor and all-around great person, Melissa Gruber (Ma-Gruber!)tells about her wonderful organization, the Firefly Sisterhood. She also becomes the first "victim" of Steve's "Clueless Quiz."
After Kevin and John dominate the last episode with sports drivel, we finally let Steve take the lead.
We welcome our new Co-Host, Steve Brown into the mix. We discuss where we have been all summer and we talk about one of Minnesota's Sports Legends and Kindness Icons.
Featuring Scholarship recipient, Adam Olson and scholarship benefactor, Marty Rathmanner.
Minnesota Masonic Home Administrator , Beth Schroeder, shares stories about navigating a one-in-lifetime (we hope) pandemic and her team of healthcare heroes who stepped up to care for some of our population's most cherished (and at-risk) people...our seniors.
Baseball skills and Character Development wrapped into a nifty little package at the Blizzard Baseball Academy. We had so much fun, we stopped recording before we even discussed the primary reason for our visit, The JP4 Foundation.
The guy's a gem...the guy we should all aspire to be. The 91 year-old retired Chief of the State Patrol and on our personal Mount Rushmore of fine men, shares stories of politics, foul language and the lack thereof. We also touch on the importance of civility when wearing a uniform...whatever uniform that might be.
Anthony LaPanta joins us to talk family, friends and food (and not necessarily in that order) and his personal Mt. Rushmore of local "good guys" he has encountered in the professional sports world.
World-renowned (YES, world!) psychologist, Dr. Dave Walsh, founder of the National Institute on Media and the Family and the Spark and Stitch Institute, discusses the role of social media and kindness in a world that seems to be dominated by divisiveness.
Secrets and Handshakes and Passwords...OH MY! The Ancient Free and Accepted Masons (or Freemasons). George Washington was one. Benjamin Franklin too. So is Shaquille O'Neill and Kramer from Seinfeld. Who knew? Ethan Seaberg is the Grand Master (yup, we call him the Grand Master) of the Grand Lodge of Minnesota. Beyond a desire to cure cancer, help ailing children, and care for the elderly and veterans, the Masons use a whole lot of kindness to help people become the best version of themselves. This one is worth a listen!
Mahtomedi, Minnesota native and St. Cloud State Alum, Steve Brown, lead singer of Johnny Clueless, shares some fun stories about his band and some of the unexpectedly delightful characters he and his bandmates encountered along the way. Absolutely great guy and a fun listen.
We live is a world that is dominated by stories of divisiveness. The Kindness Chronicles hopes to give the world a dose of the "Minnesota Nice" it desperately needs. Hosted by Fox Sport North's Kevin Gorg and Minnesota Masonic Charities' John Schwietz, the Kindness Chronicles explores the "backstories" and influences of Minnesotans from all walks of life. From athletes to business leaders, there seems to be a common thread that exists among many of Minnesota's successful and influential people...kindness. Whoever tells the stories, defines the culture. Together, let's change the dominating narrative of divisiveness and celebrate stories of kindness and the people and influences behind them