Houston White, Pablo Obregon, and Emily & Glenn Swanson share what North Minneapolis, Willmar, and Carlton County can teach us about the power of "place knowing"

Ellen talks with Houston White, founder of Houston White Ventures based in North Minneapolis; Pablo Obregon, Director of Community Growth for the City of Willmar; and Glen and Emily Swanson, owners of The Oldenburg House in Carlton County. Together, they share how their community development efforts in North Minneapolis, Willmar, and Carlton County are rooted in local culture, relationships, and a deep understanding of place.

A central theme throughout the conversation is the role of music in building connection, fostering belonging, and strengthening communities. Be sure to check out the guest-curated Spotify playlist below to hear the songs that have inspired and influenced each guest. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1IvuM2wSLCCW8R58fOraLX

Episode Highlights:
03:31 Houston White Intro

05:47 Pablo Obregon Intro

08:19 Emily and Glen Swanson + Oldenburg House Intro

11:33 Jazz as Community Connector

14:06 Willmar Growth and Inclusion

16:57 North Minneapolis Culture Economy

19:16 Rural Culture and Local Assets

21:10 Placemaking and Philanthropy Gaps

27:50 Flattened Narratives and Pride

33:51 Rural Urban Divide Reframed

More Information:
Glenn and Emily Swanson
https://oldenburghouse.com

https://oacc.us, Oldeburg Arts and Cultural Community

COOKIN' AT THE O: Jazz at Oldenburg House, https://oacc.us/cookin-at-the-o-2025/

Carlton County Anthem 

Houston White Jr
https://houstonwhite.co/
https://houstonwhite.co/themixtapestrategy

Pablo Obregon
https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-pablo-obregon-805281102/