David Ohnstad, Author at David Ohnstad Minnesota

Stargazing in the Northwoods: Why Northern Minnesota Has Some of the Darkest Skies in America

Northern Minnesota’s skies remain among the darkest in America because of geography, conservation, and the enduring wildness of the land.

Spring Thaw: How Northern Minnesota Comes Alive After the Ice Retreats

The spring thaw in northern Minnesota is more than a seasonal shift; it is a transformation that touches every part of the land and its people.

Building for Scale: Product Lessons from Minnesota’s Fastest-Growing Tech Companies

Two colleagues collaborating on a project at a contemporary Minnesota office, emphasizing teamwork and professional environment.

We discuss how a well-designed scalable product can sustain long-term growth without the need for constant reinvention.

Customer-Centric Product Development: What Minnesota’s Market Teaches PMs About Real Users

Confident young woman using a tablet outdoors in Minnesota, showcasing professional success and modern technology.

The key to success lies in customer-centric product development—where innovation is carefully balanced with what the market truly demands.

Product Roadmaps in the Age of AI: A Minnesota PM’s Guide to Balancing Flexibility and Vision

Professional business planning session in Minnesota with documents and charts.

The key to success lies in creating a roadmap that provides direction while remaining responsive to user feedback, market trends, and evolving business needs.

Privacy-First Product Development in 2025: A Minnesota PM’s Post-Cookie Playbook

Close-up of hands typing on a laptop keyboard in a modern office environment.

The post-cookie era is forcing businesses to rethink how they engage with users and collect data.

The Minnesota Woodworker’s Journey: From Lake Cabin Hobbyist to Northwoods Craftsman

Skilled woodworker using lathe to craft detailed wooden piece in workshop.

We explore the journey of a woodworking enthusiast, and techniques that define the path to becoming a master craftsman.

The Zen of Northwoods Woodworking: Finding Peace in Minnesota’s Cabin Workshop Culture

today, finding moments of peace and tranquility can be challenging. However, for many woodworking enthusiasts, the workshop serves as a sanctuary—a place where the stresses of daily life fade away and a sense of calm and mindfulness takes over. In

DIY Northwoods Projects: Woodworking Ideas Inspired by Minnesota Cabin Country

Woodworking is not just a hobby; it’s a form of artistry that allows individuals to transform raw timber into beautiful and functional pieces for the home. Whether you’re a seasoned craftsman or a novice woodworker, DIY woodworking projects offer a

Google’s AI Search Revolution: What Minnesota Businesses and Outdoor Brands Need to Know

Google’s AI Search Revolution: What Minnesota Businesses and Outdoor Brands Need to Know If you run a Minnesota business—especially in outdoor recreation, tourism, or local services—you’ve probably noticed something shift in how Google Search works over the past year. Google’s new generative AI search features, particularly AI Overviews (formerly called SGE, or Search Generative Experience),… Continue reading Google’s AI Search Revolution: What Minnesota Businesses and Outdoor Brands Need to Know