
Be inspired by diverse, thought-provoking voices from our rural region and beyond
About the Series
The last two years have brought hardships on global, local, and personal levels. It also brought to the forefront two causes in which we have long focused our work: building equitable communities and reversing the effects of climate change.
Now—as we work to restore our world, our communities, and ourselves with perspective and purpose—we challenge you to seize this opportunity to help create a more sustainable and equitable society.
Because now, more than ever, we’re in an era to act.
Speaker Info
Check back for future Era to Act sessions!
Past Speakers

Post-COVID Communities & People
MAY 13, 2021
Gil Penalosa answers the question: Post COVID-19, how should we create communities radically different for all to live healthier and happier?

Bridging Divides: The Power of Local Leadership
June 23, 2021
Lori Sturdevant, Dave Durenberger, and Ben Schierer discuss Minnesota’s political history of bridging divides and the lessons we might apply to today’s challenges.

An Imminent Threat to Democracy: The Loss of Community Newspapers
August 11, 2021
The loss of small-town newspapers is leaving many Minnesota communities without in-depth coverage of critical issues. Learn about the struggles these newspapers face, the pivotal role they play in our democracy, the community impact of losing a local newspaper, and what you can do to support local journalism. Featuring panelists Reed Anfinson, Lisa Hills, and Art Cullen.

The (R)evolution of Indigenous Food Systems of North America
November 17, 2021
Oglala Lakota Chef Sean Sherman, founder of The Sioux Chef, will share his journey of discovering, reviving, and reimagining Native cuisine.
Speaker Info
Check back for future Era to Act sessions!
Past Speakers

Communities & People
MAY 13, 2021
Gil Penalosa answers the question: Post COVID-19, how should we create communities radically different for all to live healthier and happier?

Bridging Divides: The Power of Local Leadership
June 23, 2021
Lori Sturdevant, Dave Durenberger, and Ben Schierer discuss Minnesota’s political history of bridging divides and the lessons we might apply to today’s challenges.

An Imminent Threat to Democracy: The Loss of Community Newspapers
August 11, 2021
The loss of small-town newspapers is leaving many Minnesota communities without in-depth coverage of critical issues. Learn about the struggles these newspapers face, the pivotal role they play in our democracy, the community impact of losing a local newspaper, and what you can do to support local journalism. Featuring panelists Reed Anfinson, Lisa Hills, and Art Cullen.

The (R)evolution of Indigenous Food Systems of North America
November 17, 2021
Oglala Lakota Chef Sean Sherman, founder of The Sioux Chef, will share his journey of discovering, reviving, and reimagining Native cuisine.
Through shared knowledge, we’re fueling action for the benefit of our region and our world.
Meet the host,
Storyteller Kevin Kling.
Kevin Kling is best known for his popular commentaries on National Public Radio’s All Things Considered and his storytelling stage shows. Kling’s autobiographical tales are as enchanting as they are true to life: hopping freight trains, getting hit by lightning, and growing up in Minnesota.


We use the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals to guide our work. The goals provide global framework for greener, more inclusive economies and stronger, more resilient societies.