The 2024 elections will shape agriculture policy at the Federal and State levels of government. Join us as we engage with a panel of key stakeholders and policy experts to review the election results and hear how that will influence policy priorities, public investment strategies, and regulatory action. MCRP invites you to participate in this discussion, offering a unique opportunity to learn and grow your understanding of the issues likely to impact ag retailers and the ag sector. This session will help you and your organization’s leadership team be better prepared to engage with policymakers and strengthen our advocacy efforts.

Panelists: Brian McClung (McClung PR) & Blois Olson (Fluence Media)

Biographies:

Brian McClung is the CEO of McClung PR with over 25 years of experience in media, politics, and business. Before founding the firm, he served as Press Secretary, Director of Communications, and Deputy Chief of Staff for Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty, earning recognition on the Minneapolis-St. Paul Business Journal’s 40 Under Forty list. Brian’s PR work has garnered multiple awards, and he serves as a local and national media analyst and adjunct professor, with a B.A. in Mass Communications and Journalism from Washington & Lee University.

Blois Olson has been called “Mr. Minnesota” for his ability to read the mood of the state’s residents and the political dynamics and economic trends.  He has moderated hundreds of conversations across the state including political debates, economic discussions and business forums.

His influential newsletter and commentaries are read by thousands daily as part of Fluence Media.  From the MN Orchestra lockout to Punch Pizza at the State of the Union he’s influenced news and information three decades throughout the country.  His insights and perspective are sought regularly by business, civic and political leaders across the state and country.  Named one of 100 Minnesotans you should know for 2023, he was recognized as a “Top Marketer” by Minnesota Business magazine in 2012, and named of “200 Minnesotan’s You Should Know” by Twin Cities Business magazine in 2011.  He has been on-air host and contributor to WCCO Radio since 199.

Outside of radio, Blois has built a handful of successful businesses in media and public relations/public affairs, his current company Fluence Media is the leading source of information for Minnesota’s business and political elite.