Cones, Community & Culture with Meggan Kerkenbush
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What if investing in first-time employees could shape the future of work?
Rosie sits down with Meggan Kerkenbush, co-owner of the iconic Bridgeman’s Ice Cream brand, to explore how a 90-year-old company is thriving by leading with heart, purpose, and people-first practices. From serving up sundaes to teaching life skills, Meggan shares how their small business is building future-ready leaders, one scoop at a time.
They discuss the value of community partnerships, supporting team members through personal adversity, and why flexibility and intentionality are non-negotiable in modern leadership. Meggan opens up about navigating her husband’s ALS diagnosis while running a seasonal business and why showing up as your full, human self is the most important leadership trait of all.
Whether you're leading a multigenerational team, managing part-timers, or just needing a reminder that your work matters beyond the bottom line, this one’s for you.
About Meggan Kerkenbush
Meggan is the force behind the revival of one of Minnesota's iconic brands. She works tirelessly to modernize and expand the brand while honoring its history. In 2020, she and her team opened an old-fashioned ice cream parlor in Woodbury to continue on the nostalgic experience of making memories.
Key Takeaways:
- Pivoting is essential for sustainable, human-centered leadership.
- Invest in youth employees, even if temporary.
- Life challenges require leadership rooted in flexibility.
- Strong communities start with intentional business involvement.
- Showing up imperfectly is still leadership.

Resources:
Connect with Meggan on LinkedIn
Learn more about Bridgeman's Ice Cream
Follow Bridgeman's on Instagram
Follow Bridgeman's on TikTok
