A Precarious State
Presented By: Taft
Join Rick Kupchella, acclaimed investigative journalist and executive producer of the documentary “A Precarious State,” for a fireside chat that explores the evolving landscape of the Minnesota economy. Kupchella will draw on his award-winning journalism career and insights from his new film to illuminate current challenges and opportunities shaping the region’s business climate. Attendees will gain unique perspectives from both Kupchella’s reporting and conversations with leaders featured in “A Precarious State,” uncovering actionable ideas and strategies for navigating uncertainty and building resilience in Minnesota’s vibrant marketplace.
Moderator:
Partner
Taft
A partner in Taft's Minneapolis office, Steve was the president and managing partner of Briggs and Morgan, P.A. until its combination with Taft on Jan. 1, 2020, and partner-in-charge through January of 2021. He currently serves as a member of Taft's Executive Committee. Throughout his nearly 30 years with the firm, Steve has served in a number of other leadership roles including firm chair, practice group leader and as a member of the board of directors and executive committee. A noted practitioner in the areas of banking and finance, capital markets and real estate, Steve’s strong business acumen informs his approach to building a sustainable firm that responds nimbly and meets the needs of clients today and long into the future.
Panelists:
CEO
Kupchella Public Affairs
Rick Kupchella is an award-winning investigative journalist, longtime news anchor, and notable entrepreneur based in Minneapolis-St. Paul. He worked more than 20 years at KARE-TV as a news anchor and investigative reporter, then pivoted to found several media and digital strategy companies, including the i.e. network and Bring Me The News. Kupchella is currently CEO of Kupchella Public Affairs, and is well-known for innovative approaches in content marketing and news as brand storytelling. Kupchella has won more than a dozen Emmy awards and received recognition at the New York International Film Festival.
Kupchella is the creator and executive producer of the upcoming documentary “A Precarious State,” which investigates the challenges facing Minneapolis and St. Paul in the post-pandemic era. Set for a primetime broadcast release on October 2, 2025, the documentary explores critical shifts in the region’s social and economic fabric, aiming to spark community dialogue and present paths to renewal. The film gathers testimony from politicians, business owners, analysts, and residents and will air on ABC stations throughout Minnesota and adjacent states, with broader access at PrecariousState.com.