North Star Networking Referral Team

11/20/2025

Yesterday was our annual Thankful Day at North Star Networking, and honestly… it was one of the best ones yet.

Our members brought the people they’re grateful for — friends, family, clients, and fellow networking pros — and the room was packed with good energy. We had 18 guests join us, which made for a fun and lively meeting.

We kept things simple: shared who we are, what we do, and why we love being part of this group. Our guests jumped in too, introducing themselves and telling us how they knew the member who invited them.

It was genuine, it was warm, and it reminded all of us why community matters.

Huge thanks to everyone who came and made the morning such a success. 💛✨

11/13/2025

Meet Nate Van Heuveln, owner of Criterion Counseling and Consulting in St. Cloud, MN, for his presentation this week!

Nate walked us through how he helps clients get real, lasting results by using science-based methods, including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). He broke down how our thoughts shape our behavior, and how the right tools can literally rewire the way we respond to stress, challenges, and everyday life.

He also shared the work he does on the consulting and coaching side, helping individuals level up in their careers, navigate professional transitions, and build the skills they need to move forward with confidence and direction.

Super informative, super practical, and honestly—one of those talks that sticks with you long after the meeting.

Thanks, Nate, for sharing your knowledge and the impact you’re making in our community!

11/05/2025

Meet Mary Krippner, Director of Volunteer Engagement at United Way of Central Minnesota — and she brought the perfect mix of inspiration and action. 💛

Mary shared that volunteering doesn’t just make a difference in the community — it genuinely improves our own health and happiness. Studies show that getting involved can reduce stress, boost mood, and even support physical wellbeing. Talk about a win-win!

Right now, United Way has a few great opportunities to jump in:
🎁 Toy Drive – They’re collecting new toys to brighten the holidays for local kids.
🍎 Food Packing Event – A hands-on way to make an immediate impact in our community.

Want to learn about more volunteer opportunities or how to get involved?
👉 Contact Mary Krippner at United Way of Central Minnesota — she can connect you with something meaningful that fits your schedule and passions.

And if you or someone you know needs assistance with food, housing, or local resources, remember you can always call 211 to reach community support services.

You can also explore volunteer options online at https://www.unitedwayhelps.org.

Let’s keep giving back, staying connected, and lifting up Central Minnesota — one good deed at a time.

10/30/2025

📚 Growth, Connection, and Real Takeaways

This week at our networking group, we had the incredible opportunity to hear speaker Irmadene Hanson, dive into The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth—and wow, it was exactly the kind of spark we all needed. 🔥

From the Law of Intentionality (growth doesn’t just happen) to the Law of the Mirror (you must see value in yourself to add value to others), we walked away feeling challenged, inspired, and ready to stretch ourselves as business owners and humans.

We walked away with fresh clarity and a deeper commitment to growing into the leaders, business owners, and employees we’re meant to be!!

10/24/2025

✨ Huge Congratulations! ✨

A big shoutout to Dakota Johnson from Blacklight Adventures, whose employer was honored with TWO Best of Central MN Community Choice Awards the other night! 🏆

We love seeing our networking family shine — it’s amazing to see the dedication and excellence of our members and their teams recognized.

Way to represent NSN, Dakota!! 👏👏

We’re 𝐁𝐄𝐘𝐎𝐍𝐃 𝐞𝐱𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐝 to share that Blacklight Adventures was voted 𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐁𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤 and 𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐁𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐎𝐰𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 in the Central Minnesota Best of the Best Community Choice Awards!

From our 𝐀𝐌𝐀𝐙𝐈𝐍𝐆 staff who bring the fun every day, to our 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐑𝐄𝐃𝐈𝐁𝐋𝐄 guests who support us year after year — 𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐊 𝐘𝐎𝐔 for making this possible!!

Your votes and continued support mean the world to us, and we’re so proud to call this community home.

10/22/2025

Congratulations to our very own Amanda Bzdok with Hands on Healing Massage Therapy who took FIRST place in the Best of Central MN Community Choice Awards last night!

Amanda’s dedication to her clients goes beyond massage—she builds trust, comfort, and connection. What a beautiful recognition of her work!!

We are grateful to have her as an essential part of our group!

10/22/2025

Meet Eileen Theisen, an independent mortgage consultant with over 34 years of experience helping people finance and refinance their homes. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to restructure your current mortgage, Eileen is the calm in what can often feel like an overwhelming storm.

She’s known for being positive, hardworking, and deeply caring—traits that have carried her through decades in an ever-changing industry. Why does she love what she does? Because she’s a people person at heart and genuinely enjoys helping others navigate big financial decisions with confidence and clarity.

As she puts it: “I like money and I love helping people.”
(Straight to the point—we love it.)

When she’s not crunching numbers or finding the best rates for her clients, you’ll find her planning her next travel adventure.

If you're looking to buy or refinance, Eileen’s the person you want in your corner.

📍 Envision Capital - Eileen Theisen St. Cloud Lender ID: 327578
📧 eileen@envcap.com
📞 320-291-1075

10/21/2025

Shoutout to North Star Networking crew for supporting United Way of Central Minnesota’s Socktober drive!🧦

Thanks to their yearly drive and donors, local schools and partner organizations will be able to help families who need it most this season.

Small items → big impact. ❤️

10/16/2025

Meet Alex Stay, owner of Stay Clean Detailing MN! If you know the name, you probably know the snap. What started as an accident in his first meeting quickly became part of his brand, and now we're all snapping along.

Alex founded Stay Clean Detailing in 2021 and took it full-time in March 2024. With over a decade of hands-on experience in detailing and auto mechanics, plus degrees in Business and Automotive Technology, he brings precision, professionalism, and passion to every vehicle.

A Sauk Rapids local and active member of the St. Cloud Area Chamber and North Star Networking, Alex is building more than a business. He’s building a brand that sticks.

If your car’s dirty, well… you know what to do.

09/30/2025

Game night = success ✨

The North Star Networking crew came together for some well-deserved fun at one of our favorite local spots, Blacklight Adventures! From board games to the Wii (and a few epic showdowns on their own attractions), the night was filled with laughs, connection, and community.

This crew isn’t just about business, we’re a tight-knit group that knows how to work hard and play hard. 💥

08/14/2025

Meet Jesse Lutgen, Business Broker with Calhoun Companies!

Jesse has spent the last three years helping business owners navigate one of the biggest decisions of their lives: selling or buying a business.

As a full-service business broker, he connects motivated sellers with qualified buyers and provides Broker’s Opinions of Value to help business owners understand what their business is really worth.

Known for being competitive, professional, and a strong communicator, Jesse’s passion for business and people shines through in every transaction. Whether it’s helping a seller finally close the chapter on their business or assisting a buyer in pursuing their next big venture, he’s there to make it happen.

If you know a motivated seller who just can’t seem to find the right buyer, Jesse’s the person to call.

📍 Calhoun Companies
📧 jlutgen@calhouncompanies.com