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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
Tuesday Sep 30, 2025
Tuesday Sep 30, 2025
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 Halloween events coming up
- …and more!!!!
It’s inspiring, surprising, and full of hometown pride - with a spooky little twist. Press play and get into the fall vibe with us!
Episode Links:
Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce
Cottage Grove Monster Bash Parade
Thursday Sep 04, 2025
Thursday Sep 04, 2025
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:
Friday Aug 01, 2025
Friday Aug 01, 2025
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:
Tuesday Jul 01, 2025
Tuesday Jul 01, 2025
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
TrueLensMedia.org
Why Cottage Grove Street Names Changed
Monday Jun 02, 2025
Monday Jun 02, 2025
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 hyper-local stories.
🌳 Then, get the scoop on Woodbury’s Tree Replacement Program.
🕰️ Time-travel with us as we spotlight Dr. Arthur Steen, one of the first doctors in south Washington County.
🎓🎆 Finally, don’t miss our roundup of upcoming events, from high school graduations (congrats, Woodbury, East Ridge, and Park!) to the Cottage Grove Strawberry Festival and July 4th celebrations.
Whether you’re a long-time resident or just curious, this episode is packed with fun, facts, and future-forward community news!
Show Links:
metrotransit.org/micro
woodburynewsnet.org
woodburymn.gov/TreeRebate
www.woodburymn.gov/1325/Private-Ash-Tree-Removal-Assessment-Prog
cottagegrovestrawberryfest.com
TrueLensMedia.org