TrueLens Podcast (audio only)

TrueLens Podcast (audio only)

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

Episodes

December 2, 2025 28 mins

Ann sits down with City of Woodbury Parks and Recreation Director Michelle Okada to explore the newly renovated Central Park — a reimagined community hub that’s better than ever. Discover the stunning new tile and mural art, the completely redesigned Lookout Ridge indoor playground, expanded meeting spaces perfect for gatherings (even weddings of 200–300 people!), a dedicated senior space, and the soon-to-be home of TrueLens Commun...

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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 special community.

 

Episode Links:

Why Cottage Grove is a great place to grow your b...

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September 30, 2025 41 mins

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 the community members who saved his life
  • A hauntingly good roundup of Hallowe...
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September 3, 2025 45 mins

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 Community Center

TrueLensMedia.org

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August 1, 2025 32 mins

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 uncover the quirky history of the vegetable fights!

 

Show Links:

Hailey James

Mik Mar...

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July 1, 2025 46 mins

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. Bonus: the Mayor reveals his Trekkie side! 🖖

 

Show Links:

cottagegrovemn.org

TrueLe...

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June 2, 2025 29 mins

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 Lyft. 📰 Next, meet the Woodbury New Net, a fresh digital news source bringing you ...

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