North Star Networking Referral Team

12/24/2025

When local businesses come together, great things happen. 💙

At our North Star Networking meeting, we had the opportunity to present a donation to United Way of Central Minnesota — a reminder of the impact we can make when we work together.

This group continues to support one another and give back to the community we live and work in. We’re proud to be part of something that’s about more than just business.

Community first. Always. 💙

12/17/2025

Meet Mike Yaeger with Tony's Lifetime Exteriors, who gave a great presentation this week at our meeting!

Tony's is a local, family-owned company that’s been getting it done since 1973. That kind of longevity doesn’t happen by accident.

Tony’s Lifetime Exteriors specializes in:
✔️ Roofing
✔️ Siding
✔️ Windows
✔️ Doors
✔️ Gutters

They help homeowners protect, improve, and increase their home's value through quality craftsmanship, durable materials, and decades of experience. Whether it’s storm damage, a needed upgrade, or a full exterior refresh, their team knows how to guide customers through the process without the stress.

If you’re looking for an exterior contractor with a proven track record and deep local roots, Mike and the team at Tony’s Lifetime Exteriors are a solid call.

Thanks, Mike, for an excellent presentation and for being part of North Star Networking!

12/11/2025

Meet Andi Bobick with Image Builders of St. Cloud, who gave a fantastic presentation this week at our meeting!

Andi walked us through the most popular and effective marketing tools businesses are using today to strengthen their brand presence. She broke down what actually gets noticed, what people tend to keep and use, and how the right branded items can create long-term visibility for your business.

She didn’t just focus on the typical promo items — she highlighted some brilliant branding opportunities that most of us overlook. And the best part? Andi also creates custom work shirts and scrubs, which is a game-changer for any business that wants their team to show up in consistent, professional, branded apparel. Not every company offers that kind of range, and it really sets her apart.

If your brand could use a refresh, or you’ve been thinking about getting better promo items in front of your customers, Andi is absolutely the person to talk to.

Give her a shout! She’s a true expert at making your brand look its best.

Great job today, Andi, and thanks for sharing so many helpful insights with our group!

12/04/2025

North Star Networking showed up in the best way this week. We teamed up with United Way of Central Minnesota to donate toys for local kids, and seeing our group come together like that… honestly, it’s the good stuff. Proud to be able to help those in need. 🧸💜

11/26/2025

Meet Jim Gruenke of Stop Go Studio for his presentation this week!

Jim gave us a behind-the-scenes look at how he helps businesses level up their brand through strategic, story-driven video. His passion for crafting videos that make people stop, watch, and remember really came through. 🎥

Whether it’s a brand story, a promo video, or content that showcases what makes your business unique, Jim brings the kind of clarity and creativity that truly sets businesses apart. We’re grateful he shared his expertise with us today — and even more grateful to have him in our NSN community! 🌠

If your business could use stronger video presence, Jim is definitely someone you’ll want to connect with! Stop Go Studio makes video for REEL! 🎞️

11/25/2025

Proud moment for North Star Networking today. ❤️

Our team rolled up our sleeves and made blankets for local children, and every single one was crafted with intention, kindness, and a whole lot of heart.

These blankets will be shared through United Way for Christmas, bringing warmth and comfort to kids who deserve to feel supported by their community.

Grateful for this group and the way we show up—together. 🎄✨

11/21/2025

NSN showed up big for Socktober with United Way this year. We collected stacks of socks and underwear, handed them over, and did our tiny part to keep our community warmer this winter. Proud of this crew for always stepping up. 🌟🧦

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.