MN CEOs You Should Know

Kristi Piehl - Founder & CEO Media Minefield

Kristi Piehl joins host Adam West on the iHeartMedia podcast CEOs You Should Know for a candid conversation about her journey from award‑winning journalist to successful entrepreneur. In this episode, Kristi shares how her background in television news shaped her understanding of storytelling, credibility, and media strategy—skills she later used to launch and grow her PR firm, Media Minefield. Adam and Kristi dive into the transition from newsroom to business ownership, discussing the lessons she learned along the way and how firsthand media experience gives her clients a competitive edge. They also explore real-world stories, crisis communication, and why understanding how journalists think is critical for today’s leaders. The episode offers practical insights for entrepreneurs, communications professionals, and anyone interested in how powerful storytelling drives business success.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brigette Wolf - Chief Marketing Officer at My/Mochi

Brigette Wolf is the Chief Marketing Officer at My/Mochi where she leads marketing and innovation and the brand’s transformation for growth. She is responsible for fueling the company’s innovation pipeline through the creation of beyond the core products and partnerships as well as building the brand’s equity and connection to consumers. Previously she was VP, Global Head of SnackFutures, Mondelēz International’s innovation and venture hub which launched in 2018 as part of the global snack leader’s growth agenda. There she ran intrepreneurship on her team launching new start up brands, venture capital and and CoLab, the company’s start-up engagement program.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Corey Thomas - CEO of Rapid7

Corey Thomas is the Chief Executive Officer of Rapid7, a leading global cybersecurity company based in Boston. His expertise in technology and business have been recognized through his appointments to the National Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee (NSTAC) and the Council on Foreign Relations, as well as the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Laura Jacobson - Co-Vice President Heppner's Auto Body & Glass

Laura Jacobson serves as Co-Vice President of Heppner’s Auto Body & Glass alongside her husband Jesse. With 20+ years of leadership, she’s driven growth, service excellence, and community impact, solidifying Heppner’s reputation as a trusted leader in auto repair.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Housing First Minnesota - CEO James Vagle

James Vagle is the CEO of Housing First Minnesota, leading efforts to expand homeownership and strengthen the homebuilding industry. A Navy veteran and seasoned advocate, James brings vision, integrity, and deep policy expertise to Minnesota’s housing future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.