I Was on the Mall of America Podcast!

So something super fun happened last week…I was a guest on the Mall of America podcast! 

I’m still smiling about it because honestly, MOA has been such a big part of my life—from teen memories in the 90s to bringing my own kids there now—so getting to chat all things Mall of America felt like such a full-circle moment.

What We Talked About

The Mall of America podcast is newer but a very cool one to listen to – or watch. I was thrilled when I was invited to be on as the guest for an episode.

Of course, I couldn’t be on the podcast without sharing one of my favorite resources I’ve ever created for families:

👉 My “15 Free Things to Do with Kids at the Mall of America” guide plus the free printable scavenger hunt that so many families have told me they love.

We talked about how there really are so many free and low-cost ways to enjoy the Mall, even if you’re not planning a big Nickelodeon Universe day. With kids, sometimes it’s the simple stuff—like exploring the art, visiting the aquarium tunnel, people-watching, checking out events, or doing the scavenger hunt—that makes the day fun and budget-friendly.

My Favorite MOA Memories (Hello, 90s!)

We also dove into some nostalgia. If you grew up in Minnesota in the 90s like I did, you probably remember the absolute excitement when Mall of America first opened.

I shared some of my favorite memories, like:

• Traveling from Duluth with my parents and a friend to stay in a hotel overnight and wander the Mall for 2 days
• Camp Snoopy (it was like the Minnesota northwoods!)
• Riding the Pepsi Ripsaw and thinking I was basically the bravest teen ever

There’s something really sweet about thinking back on those teen years when a trip to MOA meant total freedom and endless possibilities. And now, as a mom, seeing my kids make their own memories there? It’s pretty special.

Chatting About Life in the Twin Cities

We also talked about what makes the Twin Cities such a fun place to raise a family—how there’s always something happening, always a new spot to explore, and always a free event around the corner if you know where to look (you know I’ve got you there!).

MOA is such a hub for that energy. Whether you’re going for the events, the attractions, the shopping, or just to get your steps in on a cold day—there’s always something for every budget.

Why This Podcast Episode Meant So Much

Being on the podcast felt like sharing a piece of my Minnesota story. From those early 90s memories to finding frugal family fun today, Mall of America has been part of so many stages of my life.

And now I get to help other families make the Mall more affordable, more fun, and less overwhelming—because yes, it can be done!

Here is the Episode!

Here’s the episode:

See more podcast episodes and learn about the Mall of America podcast

(And message me if you have your own nostalgic MOA memories—I love hearing them!)