The Iowa Podcast: Recent Episodes
The Iowa Podcast
You probably heard about it from a friend getting your morning coffee at Brewhemia or Daisy Chain. Or perhaps you saw your favorite Iowan post about it? Maybe you searched the net for something that interested you. So, what is The Iowa Podcast?
It's Real Iowans, talking about real events and stuff within the state worth paying attention to.
It seems like even objective news today is pushing some kind of agenda. You won't find that garbage here! We certainly won't shy away from real issues, and we certainly won't stay away from difficult questions, but on The Iowa Podcast we will never take our guests out of context or edit their comments in any way (unless we both agree of course—sometimes people say dumb stuff or cough in the microphone!)
Iowa's state auditor, Rob Sand is within spitting distance of becoming Iowa's next Governor. But before checking that box, Iowans have questions about family funding, Lauridsen Group, Dave Muhlbauer's DNR violations, education funding, his cancer plan, and if he really believes in "not redder or bluer."
Sand also doubles down on claims his opponent, Zach Lahn is "from Kansas" and explains why his campaign or the Democrat party hasn't filed official complaint with the The State Objection Panel, Iowa Secretary of State, or The Iowa Attorney General.
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Representative Lindsay James is currently an Iowa House member, and she's asking Iowans for a promotion to the big house in DC. James joins us to discuss why her stances on healthcare, cancer rates, and "fighting corruption" will get her into US Congress.
James explains her positions and defends criticisms for missing 50% of votes in the Iowa legislature. She discusses her concerns over price gouging, caps for insulin, and is asked about the difference between rising health insurance costs, and rising healthcare costs.
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Private calls with HHS Secretary Bobby Kennedy, pressure from Rep. Zach Nunn to drop out, and court challenges removing ballot access? Libertarian Candidate for US Congress, Marco Battaglia shares what was discussed on their phone calls, and the list of resources the GOP said they'd attempt should Battaglia not cave.
This isn't the first time Battaglia has run for Congress, facing numerous legal challenges from the GOP, but the pressure this cycle was far greater. He discusses his side of the story, and why he his petition for judicial review in Polk County District Court will overturn State Objections Panel's decision.
💡 Official show notes page: https://iowapodcast.com/marco-battaglia-rfk-nunn-call ⚖️ Hurt at work? Talk to Nate Boulton for free: https://workerslawyers.com 🐖 Get a free $30 gift card from Jethro's BBQ: https://iowapodcast.com/jethrosbbq
It's no surprise RAGBRAI cyclists will soon pedal their way into Iowa, but what may be a surprise is this year's exclusive Field of Dreams stop and a mystery celebrity who's coming for a ride. RAGBRAI executive director, Matt Phippen explains the incredible town support, and memorable experiences that come with the Registers Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa.
Phippen explains how the ride broke into another state briefly and the controversy that came with it. He also walks us through the incredible economic impact RAGBRAI brings, and how a few church ladies made a windfall making pie for riders. We also reflect on how two YouTube stars captured Iowa's ride perfectly.
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If you're an Iowa outdoors fanatic, you likely follow or have heard of Outdoors Dan. Dan Young has been a familiar voice on WHO Radio, ESPN Radio, and KXNO and The Outdoor Call Radio Network online. Young shares his best bow hunting and fishing advice, including taking down a bear, or two, or three.
Young explains tips for beginners and pros including some of his favorite fishing spots. He also explains how to find areas to hunt on, how to get permission from Iowa landowners, and where to find public lands. If you're an outdoor beginner or expert, Outdoors Dan is your guy.
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American is 250 years old and Clear Lake, Iowa is celebrating with a bang! Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, Stacy Doughan explains why 60,000 Iowans squeeze into the town during this massive celebration, visitor FAQs, and why key decisions around lake restoration improved the local area.
💡 Official show page with links: https://iowapodcast.com/clear-lake-4th-of-july ⚖️ Hurt at work? Talk to Nate Boulton for free: https://workerslawyers.com 🐖 Get a free $30 gift card from Jethro's BBQ: https://iowapodcast.com/jethrosbbq
Doughan explains why Clear Lake is seeing a growth spurt as people seek out quiet, close-knit life. She also tells the encouraging story of how Clear Lake went from an eye-sore to something the local community is proud of. That growth however has come at a cost she says. Housing hasn't kept up with demand. What's being done about that?
County fairs are county-wide celebrations, but because of their local focus Iowans don't understand the incredible economic impact they have on our state. Thomas Barnes explains the billion dollar economic impact county fairs have, and why our 99 counties somehow have 106 county fairs.
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Barnes is the Executive Director of the Association of Iowa Fairs. He explains how the fair system in Iowa works, and the importance of programs like FFA and 4H. He explains some of the headwinds these programs face. Will Iowa capitalize on the national focus on agriculture, and homesteading?
It's almost here! Le Mars Iowa hosts it's annual Ice Cream Days festival. Executive Director, Kristen Heimgartner explains the history of the special event, how you can get free ice cream, why their town is growing, and how their biggest employer, Wells, sources dairy from Iowa farms.
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With cancer rates and water quality concerns, Iowans are paying close attention to the Secretary of Agriculture race. Should we make changes? Should we ban chemical pesticides or herbicides like glyphosate?
Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig said his administration will prioritize accelerating voluntary conservation practices vs new regulations, laws, or mandates.
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Iowa's craft beer scene is experiencing a shift toward crisp, lower-alcohol beverages. Noreen Otto, the executive director of the Iowa Brewers Guild, and "ringmaster" of The Iowa Craft Brew Festival, highlights a major renaissance in craft ciders made from heritage fruits grown in local orchards.
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Consumers are increasingly moving away from heavily hopped IPAs and high-ABV stouts in favor of straightforward, easy-drinking lagers and ales. "I love this question because I do think one of the big misconceptions in craft beer is that everything tastes like hops, right?" Otto notes.
Marked by unprecedented vacancies in its top offices, Iowa is seeing a wild election cycle. Kathie Obradovich, editor-in-chief of the IowaCapital Dispatch, breaks down the bizarre election cycle, how the GOP Gubernatorial primary may have flipped, what's happening in the Senate and Congressional races, and is Iowa still a purple state?
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Obradovich says it has been 20 years since the governor's race was truly open, and 58 years since both the gubernatorial and U.S. Senate races were simultaneously wide open. This rare alignment introduces a unique level of instability and excitement for both major parties during a midterm cycle. We also touch on a surprise, could Democrats return to The Iowa Caucuses?
Staff Sergeant Ben Doyle of the The US Army gives us a first hand look at what happens when a soldier falls and also teaches ONE simple thing we can do this Memorial Day to honor our fallen.
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Find the stories of our fallen, and read their stories out loud. Honor them by speaking their names. Don't let them be forgotten. To our military, fallen heroes, and their families, we can't say it enough: thank you for your sacrifice. 🇺🇸
In the past, the Secretary of Agriculture position wasn't a race that demanded a lot of attention. As most Iowans become increasingly concerned with Iowa soil health and water quality however, the race has taken more attention and Chris Jones hopes his solutions for Iowa water quality will land him the job. Jones discusses how he proposes to fix the "upstream" problems and what regulations may be necessary.
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Jones says the runoff and nitrate issues are entirely preventable if we change regulations around farming. He also suggests new state funding to help farmers re-design their fields but also suggests farmers may have to contribute new tax revenue to get our water problems under control.
It's Tulip Time! Iowan's are aware of the annual Tulip Time Festival in Pella, Iowa BUT did you know it's a honeypot of high-brow visitors? Royalty and even musical celebrities are known to make an appearance, all for the love of Dutch heritage and culture. Jessi Galligan, Executive Director of Pella Historical Museums & Tulip Time joins us.
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Galligan explains how many tulips are planted, how the city of 10,000 plans for, and accommodates nearly 200,000 people, the logistics that go into the festival, and the incredible economic impact it has on the town. She also discusses Tulip Time parking and FAQs like "where are the tulips?"
According to new data from Edison Research, more people are listening to podcasts in the USA than radio. It's the very first time this has happened. Ryan Snaadt of Snaadt media comes in the studio to explain why podcasts aren't just limited to news companies or publishers. Any brand or person can start a show. Is radio dead? 💡 Find this show on every app: https://iowapodcast.com/ryan-snaadt-media 🐖 Get a free $30 gift card from Jethro's BBQ: https://iowapodcast.com/jethrosbbq 🩺 Sign up for Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care: https://exemplar.care 🌾 Watch The World Food Prize Podcast: https://worldfoodprize.org/en/newsroom/world_food_prize_podcast/ ⚖️ Hurt on the job? Get Nate Boulton's help https://workerslawyers.com
Snaadt is a videographer and podcaster. His podcast highlights Iowa leaders and his podcast has been instrumental in growing his own company. We now live in an age where private small businesses are disrupting large media companies that own radio stations. Snaadt gives a glimpse into best practices and what Iowa brands are doing with this new found power.
While AI is an incredibly sophisticated "copy paste" tool capable of replicating patterns, can it close the biological "last mile" of creativity that defines true artistry? Tony Bohnenkamp of The Canary Collective, and former member of The Nadas discusses the creative process of composing original music for Kreg Tool. Music requires emotional depth and intent that algorithms cannot simulate. Can Ai experience a rough morning, a personal life event, or a breakup? Can Ai truly replicate the human moods that spur iconic, classic songs?
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The conversation highlights a shift where creative professionals must learn to use AI as an assistant to handle mundane tasks while focusing on the high-level questions that technology cannot answer. Bohnenkamp believes that knowing how to phrase prompts based on professional experience is what will separate seasoned creators from those who simply use AI to "start a podcast". Ultimately, he views the human experience as the indispensable 20% of work that makes a project great, ensuring that true artists remain a distinct and necessary force in the industry.
What happens when a centuries-old trade meets the cutting edge of artificial intelligence? Riana LeJeune is proving that upholstery is far from a "dying art" by launching a first-of-its-kind national apprenticeship and developing a global design app without any coding knowledge.
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LeJeune dives into how she bypassed a $100,000 software quote to build her own global SaaS platform and why she believes industry-specific Ai is the secret to making artisans more profitable. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast, a tech geek, or someone who values the "buy once, buy well" philosophy, you'll want to hear how this Iowa entrepreneur is turning old-school grit into a high-tech revolution.
Chapters00:00 - Old Trade Meets AI 01:45 - Why Upholstery Still Matters 08:48 - Building a National Apprenticeship 15:24 - Renewable App Explained 19:44 - Two Sided Platform Pricing 23:08 - Vibe Coding And Future
As newspapers struggle across the country, one small town in Northwestern Iowa is bucking the trend. Not only are they're seeing subscriber and advertiser growth through a new podcast. Erin Sommers, editor of The Record Democrat in Pocahontas, Iowa explains why she launched their new podcast, "On The Record," before their first website!
Links:💡 Find this show on every app: iowapodcast.com/pocahontas-on-the-record-podcast 🐖 Get a free $30 gift card from Jethro's BBQ: iowapodcast.com/jethrosbbq 🩺 Sign up for Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care: exemplar.care 🌾 Watch The World Food Prize Podcast: https://www.worldfoodprize.org/en/newsroom/world_food_prize_podcast/ ⚖️ Hurt on the job? Get Nate Boulton's help workerslawyers.com
In this interview Sommers explains how On The Record has not only led to new readers, but has revived interest from advertisers! She explains why viral reach isn't the goal, and how they think about content serving Pocahontas, and Northwest Iowa.
Chapters:00:00 - Podcasts Beat Radio 01:21 - Why Print Still Matters 10:01 - Launching a Local News Podcast 19:25 - Podcasting Takes Work 23:55 - Print Plus Podcast Strategy 28:52 - AI Newsroom Future
Zach Lahn is running for Governor in Iowa and he happens to be the very first candidate to be endorsed by RFK JR's MAHA Action organization. In this discussion, Lahn explains his intent to stop subsidies and veto incentives for big ag, even if it means losing party backing entirely.
Links:
💡 Find this show on every app: https://iowapodcast.com/zach-lahn-iowa-governor-maha 🐖 Get a free $30 gift card from Jethro's BBQ: https://iowapodcast.com/jethrosbbq 🩺 Sign up for Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care: https://www.exemplar.care/ 🌾 Watch The World Food Prize Podcast: https://www.worldfoodprize.org/en/newsroom/world_food_prize_podcast/ ⚖️ Hurt on the job? Get Nate Boulton's help https://workerslawyers.com
Lahn gives his perspective on President Trump's executive order protecting Glyphosate. Is this the end of the end of the MAHA, MAGA, and GOP alignment on health? Are new battle lines being formed in Iowa and US Politics? Can he convince Iowa to lead the country in regenerative agriculture?
Chapters:
00:00 - Intro and MAHA Endorsement 04:03 - Glyphosate Immunity Fight 10:51 - Iowa First Farm Reforms 16:57 - Break Up Big Ag 19:44 - Regenerative Farming Shift 26:49 - Incentives MAHA Wrap Up
Back in 2012, downtown Burlington was a beautiful, albeit quiet. But today it's thriving and active, at times with four shows performing simultaneously in the downtown area. Jeff Poulter, Director of The Capitol Theater complex discusses the historic theater and the thriving Downtown area.
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Poulter isn't sure if the Theater's historic renovation set off the growth in Dubuque but the timing is notable. Oftentimes historic renovations and artistic pursuit are the catalyst to new growth. Poulter explains all the activity at the theater, the new speakeasy and gives a first-hand account of what traveling acts say about Dubuque when they stop by.
Chapters:00:00 - Welcome to Burlington's Arts Hub 01:21 - Inside the Capitol Complex and Nightcap 07:58 - Renovation History and Riverfront Revival 15:16 - Local Music Partners 16:19 - Why Acts Return 22:25 - River Cruises And Events
Have you heard Iowans are "risk averse" creatures? Research from Iowa State University not only suggests this may be true, but its origin may be tied to farmer trauma, passed down to our children and grandchildren. Chris Morris, PhD research shows stress from farming has a compounding effect over time and becomes mentally destructive. The resulting trauma not only results in risk averse behavior and higher than average suicide rates, but is passed down.
Dr. Morris has spoken with farmers across the entire state, and his stories are heartbreaking and shocking. The immense pressure farmer's face of "feeding the world" and protecting their ancestors legacy are heavy burdens result in low-grade stress that builds. Making things more difficult, farmers rarely share these social pressures, and therefore lack the mental tools to reverse the trend.
💡 Find this show on your favorite player: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-risk-aversion 🐖 Get a free $30 gift card from Jethro's BBQ: https://iowapodcast.com/jethrosbbq
Chapters: 00:00 - Why Iowans Play It Safe 02:06 - Farm Trauma Explained 06:38 - Risk Aversion and Ripple Effects 16:52 - Stigma and Isolation 24:03 - Trauma Stories and Policy 29:32 - What Helps Farmers Heal
If you've seen a national media story featuring Iowa, visited the Des Moines airport, picked up an Iowa magazine, checked out the Iowa Road Trip Facebook page, or have seen any Iowa tourism website, you've likely appreciated his work. His name is Brian Abeling and he explains the stories behind Iowa's most iconic shots.
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Born in New York, Abeling lives in central Iowa and although it may seem like taking breathtaking Iowa photo is his full time job, he explains it's just a hobby, but his organizational skill and dedication to finding the most perfect Iowa shots are 2nd to none. He explains his favorite Iowa moments, how far Iowa nice goes, and his incredibly detailed system that grew his Iowa Road Trip Facebook page to over 330,000 followers.
Chapters:
00:00 - Welcome And Introduction
01:15 - Career Highlights And Features
03:15 - Day Job Vs Night Job
03:39 - Automating Iowa Road Trip
04:38 - Food Photos And Fan Encounters
07:45 - Iowa Safety And Iowa Nice
11:00 - Favorite Hidden Iowa Spots
12:48 - Page Growth And Content Strategy
14:48 - Iowa Pride And Social Media
16:24 - Ignore the Comments
16:51 - Quiet Iowa Moments
18:23 - When Fans Don't Believe
19:48 - Photos That Boost Business
21:27 - Iowa Food Obsessions
22:54 - Iowa Isn't Flat
24:03 - From New York to Iowa
25:35 - Photography Origin Story
27:05 - Planning Road Trip Shoots
29:31 Years of Dedication
30:28 - Where to Find Brian
30:54 - Wrap up and Closing
The Des Moines Symphony is 1 of 4 symphonies in the USA with a young musician academy, which is the focus of their final 3 Masterworks performances. Get 20% off using code: IOWAPODCAST to see this unique experience right here in Iowa!
Maestro Joseph Giunta breaks down their final three Masterworks concerts featuring the Heartland Youth Choir singing the well known Shaker Hymn "Tis a Gift to be Simple" and 17-year old child prodigy Amaryn Olmeda for Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto and a whole lot more.
Chapters: 00:50 - Orchestra Size and Hall Acoustics 02:05 - Masterworks 5: Reflection featuring Stella Chen 09:44 - Masterworks 6: Hope featuring Heartland Youth Choir 14:13 - Masterworks 7: Courage featuring Amaryn Olmeda 15:32 - Alpine Symphony And Hall Sound
🎻 Get Masterworks tickets https://dmsymphony.org/about/news/des-moines-symphony-masterworks-2025-2026/
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As the Iowa Legislature navigates the accelerating reality of autonomous vehicles, State Representative Megan Jones (R-Sioux Rapids) is seeking a delicate balance between technological innovation and public safety. But the current state of the bill may create a regulatory framework that inadvertently bans them entirely.
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Jones chairs the House Transportation Subcommittee. She addresses the evolution of bills like HF 2375, HSB 598, HF 2673, which aim to define the "rules of the road" for driverless technology in the Hawkeye State.
Chapters: 01:00 - Bills and Safety Fears 07:51 - Hazmat Trucks and Future Proofing 14:41 - Public Input and Liability Questions 16:30 - Liability and Tort Reform 19:24 - Insurance and Road Safety 22:10 - Bill Language and Labor Concerns 29:50 - State Rules and Closing Thoughts
Americana and Django, two iconic Des Moines restaurants, are gone for good and they're not alone. 600 restaurants in Iowa will be closing in 2026 and it's because the challenges are too many to count. Scott Carlson, owner of The Craft Beer Tent, and Gilroy's opens up about Americana's closing.
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Increasing taxes, work from home, zero-proof, changing food preferences, homeless population, increasing food and labor costs, regulatory burdens, food delivery, and rising insurance rates are just a few challenges most restaurateurs have to deal with. But Iowa eateries are dealing with all of them simultaneously. Carlson breaks down what happened and what needs to change.
Chapters:
00:00 - Welcome - Meet Scott Carlson
01:18 - Why Americana Is Closing: 'Death by a Thousand Cuts'
02:21 - Downtown Des Moines After COVID: Lost Office Crowds & Corporate Spending
04:54 - Western Gateway Headwinds: Homelessness, Street Closures, Construction & Plumbing
06:29 - The Bigger Picture
08:44 - New Pressures on Margins
11:56 - What Can Government Do? Small Business Blind Spots & the 'Slow Exit from COVID' Warning
15:20 - Regulation, Liquor Liability, Insurance & Credit Card Fees Squeezing Restaurants
18:59 - Changing Food Preferences
20:07 - Food cost spikes & the limits of raising menu prices
22:07 - Adapting without alienating customers
23:47 - Seed oils vs beef tallow: how health rules reshaped frying
26:11 - Food vs fuel
27:17 - Why it's called Gilroy's: the ginger-themed origin story
27:56 - Survival strategy: Des Moines' "Golden Circle"
31:04 - Construction & downtown events: the hidden cost to restaurants
33:38 - The downtown dining experience
35:57 - Wrap-up
The Florida surgeon general has labeled glyphosate a "contaminant" and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) considers it carcinogenic. So, why is it used on over 70% of Iowa fields? Dr. Richard Deming of MercyOne explains why Iowa is #2 in cancer rates and what can be done. 💡 Find this show on your favorite player: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-cancer-r... 🗞️ Be first to get new interviews: https://iowapodcast.com/subscribe/ 🐖 Get a free $30 gift card from Jethro's BBQ: https://iowapodcast.com/jethrosbbq Deming is an oncologist and director of the Richard Deming Cancer Center at MercyOne. He explains why almost 50% of cancer causes are preventable, but rates climb anyway. He goes into vivid detail on what causes cancer, including some of the very treatments that are supposed to fight it. He also explains why eating healthy food, lowering obesity, and perhaps even some yoga are stronger cancer fighters than we initially thought. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Topic Overview 00:44 - Guest Introduction: Dr. Richard Deming 00:51 - The Complexity of Cancer Causes 02:32 - Government Actions on Glyphosate 03:12 - Public Policy and Cancer Prevention 04:35 - Environmental Factors and Cancer 15:15 - Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Cancer Risk 20:16 - Unique Cancer Risks in Iowa 24:08 - The Impact of Obesity on Cancer 24:30 - Organic Food and Cancer Rates 25:10 - Modern Agriculture and Food Distribution 26:04 - The Role of Mutations in Cancer 30:17 - Cancer Screening and Prevention 37:35 - Above and Beyond Cancer: A Public Charity 41:56 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Want to see bald eagles snatching fish out of the water? Would you like to have a front row seat seeing eagles fight over a fresh meal? Professional photographer Ron Maggard explains how to find the best Iowa locations and what times are ideal.
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Maggard is an Iowa-based wildlife photographer and he's a big fan of bald eagles. He explains why below zero temperatures in February are great for bald eagle photography and how to find the best eagle locations across the state. He also discusses some breathtaking experiences and what time of day gets the best photographs.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:10 Eagle Watching in Iowa: An Overview
00:25 Expert Insights: Ron Maggard on Eagle Watching
01:16 Best Locations for Eagle Watching
02:00 Why Winter is Ideal for Eagle Watching
07:24 Photography Tips for Capturing Eagles
10:51 Eagle Behavior and Interactions
13:28 Respecting Eagle Nests: Legal Distances and Common Mistakes
14:27 The Size and Construction of Eagle Nests
16:28 Eagle Watching in Iowa: A New Phenomenon
17:20 Photography Tips for Capturing Eagles
19:21 Eagle Behavior and Hunting Techniques
21:24 The Impact of Removing Roller Dams on Eagle Populations
22:29 Exploring Iowa's Hidden Gems Through Photography
24:40 Final Thoughts and Photography Advice
The drive down Ingersoll avenue is a juxtaposition of new and trendy, but also rundown and gross. But this month, with the launch of The Ingersoll that brand is finally behind us. Steve Peters, co-owner of The Ingersoll, and CEO of VenuWorks describes the process of saving the building and bringing back to life the iconic marquee.
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Peters says every inch of the building needed to be gutted and redone to save it. But Iowans have responded favorably, selling the venue out every night in January. And the good news doesn't stop there. Despite it being open for only a few weeks, 50% of the acts are from across the country. Musicians, actors, and touring groups are already getting in line to come perform for Iowans.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:13 The Ingersoll Theater: From Eyesore to Crown Jewel
01:14 Challenges and Delays in Renovation
03:04 The Grand Opening and Community Response
03:48 Historical Significance and Restoration Efforts
06:50 Modern Upgrades and Technological Enhancements
14:01 Community Support and Unexpected Challenges
14:53 Unexpected Challenges in Building Restoration
15:25 Community Support and Initial Steps
16:02 Long-term Viability and Programming Plans
16:31 Theater Offerings and Local Talent
18:58 Personal Connection to the Arts
19:36 Private vs. Public Funding in Theater Restoration
20:28 Ensuring Professional Management and Maintenance
23:03 Interest from Outside Acts and Community Involvement
27:29 Diverse Entertainment Spectrum
29:14 Conclusion and Ticket Information
20% of cyclists coming to Ankeny aren't from Iowa. The economic potential cyclists bring is estimated to be in the billions, but currently each stay only brings $250 in economic activity. Derek Lord, Ankeny economic development director explains the retail and business opportunity accommodate the massive and untapped revenue potential. Will retailers answer the call?
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Lord explains the High Trestle Trail has brought 250,000 cyclists through Ankeny every year. Cutting right through the middle of Uptown, the revenue potential has been immense. Will hospitality companies capitalize on the potential in 2026? Lord also addresses the growth plans for the NE Ankeny annexation, new mixed use retail and apartments in Uptown, and why traffic on Delaware is probably not changing any time soon, especially as new retailers show interest.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene
00:20 High Trestle Trail: A Unique Attraction
01:13 Flow Line and Glow Trail: Enhancing the Experience
03:39 Economic Impact and Visitor Statistics
08:22 Future Plans and Opportunities
16:21 Enhancing Hotel Amenities for Cyclists
16:42 Airbnb Opportunities in Rural Communities
17:29 Economic Impact of Bicycling in Iowa
18:40 Winter Biking Potential in Ankeny
21:14 Revitalizing Uptown Ankeny
28:05 Future Growth and Annexation Plans
30:56 Conclusion and Staying Informed
Many Iowans suffer from chronic health issues with 37% suffering from obesity. Will the new "MAHA" food pyramid actually help? The answer is yes, according to Dr. Rachel Poll. Poll is a functional medicine doctor at Delta Health in Clive, and has been recommending her own similar version of the new food pyramid to her patients for years, and the results are striking with many reversing chronic health issues.
This week the Department of Health and Human Services published a new version of the 1980s food pyramid, but the change is striking with them literally flipping much of it upside down. Healthy fats are good, red meat is on top, and grains are deemphasized. Poll said her patients have been eating a similar version of this recommended diet for years and the results she sees are irrefutable.
This week, the US Mint launched a new coin honoring Iowa and Dr. Norman Borlaug. Many Iowans have heard his name, but most still don't know who he is, how he saved billions of people or how why his innovation won him recognition alongside Nelson Mandela. Mashal Husain, President of The World Food Prize Foundation tells the story.
Borlaug's innovation in wheat is credited with saving billions of lives, and after he founded the World Food Prize in 1986, his work of ending global hunger continued. Husain unpacks his legacy, discusses the 40 laureates selected over the years, and explains the over 20 million dollar process to renovate the former Downtown Des Moines public library into the World Food Prize headquarters and Hall of Laureates in downtown Des Moines.
https://iowapodcast.com/norman-borlaug-coin
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48,000 of the Iowans we serve will fail their fitness New Year's resolutions. That's about 80% of our listeners if you're doing the math. The reason many people fail isn't because they think small, it's because think too big or have no specified goal at all. The 9% who hit their goals keep it way simpler says personal trainer Nick Fey.
Fey is a Doctoral Student in Kinesiology and has a Masters in Kinesiology. He explains the cycle of who shows up at the gym around this time, who gives up, how long they last, and why. Believe it or not, it's not the natural athletes who stick with it. It's people who keep things really simple.
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Chapters 00:00 - Shocking Fitness Statistics 00:53 Meet the Expert: Nick Fey 01:37 New Year's Resolutions and Gym Trends 07:13 Parkinson's Disease and Exercise 13:24 Creating Effective Fitness Plans 18:32 The Scale is a Liar 19:32 Setting Realistic Goals 20:21 Advice for Beginners 24:22 Understanding Good and Bad Soreness 30:05 Advanced Training Tips 31:51 Contacting Nick for Help
As 2026 ushers in sweeping tax reforms for business owners, CPA Ann Hartz, founder of Ann Hartz CPA in Des Moines, offers tactical steps business owners can take before January 1st to avoid overpaying their 2025 taxes.
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Paying your taxes is a civic duty, but no one wants to overpay and deal with uncertainty. Hartz offers a strategic roadmap to navigate the changes, explains when to switch from sole proprietorships to S corps, and when it's appropriate to spend money at the end of the year to save on taxes, and when it's stupid.
Keep in mind, this advice may not apply to your specific situation. Please reach out to Hartz's team or your own CPA with questions.
Chapters: 00:58 - Iowa Business Tax Incentives for 2026 03:39 - Understanding QBI and Business Structures 08:50 - Filing strategies for Business Owners 12:27 - End-of-Year Tax Planning Tips 23:36 - Final Thoughts and Contact Information
Antisemitism is a problem not just in Australia but here in Iowa. The last few years have been an eye opener for a few of us, but sadly not all. Sadly, most Iowans still have the blinders on, or think this problem will simply go away. In fact, it has gotten worse.
Jarad Bernstein, Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines discusses the violent Hanukkah attack at Australia's Bondi Beach and warns on the rise of antisemitism around the world—and its undeniable impact close to home.
https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-jewish-community
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Tell me if you've heard this one… three actors walk into a show, one gets sick and goes to the hospital, the others finish the show and the audience thinks it's part of the show. Patrick Albanese of Triple Espresso reacts to 30 Years, crazy stories, and what surprised him most about "Iowa Nice."
Albanese couldn't have picked out Iowa on a map when he heard of the show opportunity but not only did he end up moving to Iowa permanently, he found his wife here! Albanese reflects on Triple Espresso's incredible success and why their apolitical, family friendly show grew in popularity.
Full show notes: https://iowapodcast.com/patrickalbanese
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High tea, Victorian costumes, classy Christmas parties, and you're invited. Did you have any clue that any Iowan can sign up for tea parties, and this month the official Terrace Hill Christmas party? Also called the Governor's Mansion you can also do a tour, but you can't go to the basement vault. We asked Terrace Hill administrator, Molly Franta what's inside.
Terrace Hill hosts Christmas and tea parties and most Iowans have no idea they can come and check it out, sip some tea and enjoy the music. The party benefits the Iowa National Guard and care packages are sent to our troops. Franta also shares some of the coolest rooms in Terrace Hill that most folks don't have access to.
Full show notes: https://iowapodcast.com/terrace-hill-christmas
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In this special Thanksgiving show, host Justin Brady asks his wife, Vanessa Brady, how to whip up a 15 minute cranberry sauce for those of you with no time, using few ingredients. This cranberry sauce is a yearly go-to. It can be prepped early, but in your case, you can go to the store, buy a few ingredients, prep, make, and serve all in 2 hours or less.
She also explains why actions you take today and tomorrow will determine how easy next year is. Now is the best time to plan, and she explains how to do it and how to organize notes so next year involves no guessing and no stress. Go to https://iowapodcast.com/thanksgiving for the recipe and show notes.
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Chapters: 00:00 - Last-Minute Dish & Prepping for next year 01:10 - Thanksgiving Preparation and Family Roles 03:16 - Stuffing and Mashed Potatoes Tips 05:22 - 15-min Cranberry Sauce Walkthrough 12:49 - Final Thoughts and Additional Resources
"Move that bus!" is a phrase ABC watchers remember. And so does Rick Tollakson, the CEO of Hubbell Realty, Iowa's largest real estate company. He discussed working with Extreme Home Makeover and how it changed Iowa real estate. He also gives his expert analysis on Iowa home values, home costs, and how to keep young people in Iowa.
Tollakson just launched a new book called Think Bigger, Lead Better. In the book he discusses stories about Iowa and how he grew Hubbell into the powerhouse it is today. Tollakson also dives into current market conditions, downtown Des Moines challenges, affordable housing, and the ICON water trails taking inspiration from… Idaho?
Full show notes: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-real-estate-market
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If you're a Shark Tank fan, you saw Iowa Falls native Billie Asmus, Founder of Repaint Studios get a deal with Chip and Joanna Gains, and Barbara Corcoran. But you also didn't see quite a bit. You didn't see the full 1 hour pitch, you didn't see Chip trying to crush her paint tray, and you didn't see the 5 years leading up to her "lucky break."
Asmus discusses her experience, and tells other Iowans how to get in the tank: Spoiler: it's about hard work and trying over and over again. She explains her backstory and risks, but also explains how she mitigated risks up front before spending over $30,000 on a mold for her product. For Shark Tank fans, and prospective entrepreneurs, Asmus gives a crash course worth hearing.
Full show notes: https://iowapodcast.com/billie-asmus-shark-tank-repaint-studios
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SNAP benefits are extended through November but only at 50%. Because Congress didn't appropriate funds, The White House released a contingency fund this week, November 3rd. Tami Nielsen, CEO of The Food Bank of Iowa explains the impact on Iowa, how the funds will be allocated, and why Iowans' SNAP benefits might still be delayed for weeks.
One out of every 9 meals for food insecure Iowans is covered by The Food Bank of Iowa and their partner pantries. This means, Iowans will now be turning to food pantries to fill that gap. Due to the incredible increase in need, The Food Bank of Iowa has great concerns they will be able to keep food on Iowans tables.
Full show notes: https://iowapodcast.com/food-bank-of-iowa-tami-nielsen-snap
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The Des Moines Public Schools Bond Measure, dubbed the Reimagining Education program, is up for a vote November 4th, which will increase funding by 265 million dollars. Iowa podcast host, Ross Peterson of The Rush shares his research of the measure but also his concerns.
New Superintendent Matt Smith shared updates on Des Moines Public Schools, advocating for new Pre-K programs, and Career and Technical Education (CTE) changes, but Peterson says accountability is needed before this measure should pass. Peterson has one child enrolled in DMPS and ever since sharing his research on the Bond Measure, parent and teacher concerns have poured in.
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In this special edition of the Iowa Podcast, recorded during the World Food Prize's Borlaug Dialogue, host Justin Brady captures a rare cross-section of voices that drive the global food security conversation—from international leaders to Iowa farmers.
Interviews with Mashal Husain, President of the World Food Prize Foundation; Brent Renner, soybean farmer and United Soybean Board member; and Ray Gasser, Iowa farmer and global agriculture advocate, paint a rich portrait of how Iowa's heartland is influencing global hunger solutions.
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99.9% of Iowa's prairies are gone and half of remaining 0.01% are in the Loess Hills. Saving and restoring native prairie land is critical to maintain soil health BUT saving it is remarkably difficult. Technological attempts have failed so Lance Brisbois of Golden Hills Resource Conservation and Development has turned to a tried and true approach. Manually picking seed by hand.
Brisbois' last "Prairie Seed Harvest" for the season is Monday, October 20th. He's looking for volunteers to walk through nature and pick seed. The seed is used for conservation efforts, grown for sale, and provided to the DNR to maintain soil health. He explains why saving plant species is critical to soil and water quality, and why terrain has prevented technological solutions.
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The ICE arrest of Des Moines Public Schools Superintendent Ian Roberts shocked Iowa, leaving community members with more questions than answers. In this interview, newly installed Interim Superintendent, Matt Smith tries to fill the information vacuum, but concedes much of the process was a mystery even to him.
Serving as Associate Superintendent, this will be his second time stepping into the role left open by controversy. Smith says he was kept out of much of the Roberts hiring process and hasn't kept up with the news. Instead he is choosing to counter declining enrollment and sliding test scores by introducing a new trade school-leaning model and preschool.
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Des Moines Public Schools is now international news after its Superintendent was arrested by ICE. Ian Roberts criminal history including drug trafficking, illegal firearms, and even grand theft auto has slowly come to light led by a citizen journalist, Laura Powell. Powell is a civil rights lawyer from California, and discusses mysterious outsider groups that may have been involved.
Powell’s research, questioned by local media at first then later copied, shows a disturbing pattern and potential negligence by the State Department of Education and The Des Moines School Board. Shockingly, she did most of her research on the open internet, and read Robert's own book where she learned he was part of a “death squad” in Guyana.
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This month the Amana Colonies Oktoberfest celebrates its 60-year anniversary and the Amana Colonies Bürgermeister himself, Jon Childers, joins us to explain the special occasion, free sausages, local bands, and of course… Lots of beer! He also explains the backstory, why the Amana communal living experiment failed and why they’re not Amish!
The Amana Colonies are an Iowa institution, but most Iowans don’t actually understand their importance. They don’t understand the communal society was run by their church, or how they actually embraced technology vs the Amish community they’re often confused for. Childers, who is also the Executive Director of the Amana Heritage Society, explains their rich history.
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Erin Kiernan, anchor of WHOTV suddenly vanished off the airwaves leaving viewers to wonder what happened. Upon returning, she explained her time away from the camera was spent on her family, specifically her son Michael Francis who has Autism. She discusses the growing conflict within the autism community and why autism is still very misunderstood.
She breaks down common misunderstanding’s like “the spectrum” and “levels” and the difference between Asperger's and autism. She also explains what a day in the life looks like, and how friends, neighbors, and family can help. She also addresses why finding a “cause” is suddenly controversial and the blowback she often receives for simply trying to help her son adapt and thrive.
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Charlie Kirk’s killing sent shockwaves through the entire world but Congressional candidate Christian Schlaefer says the violence isn’t surprising. In an exclusive sit down interview, he explains younger conservatives have seen the increase in hatred and vitriol including himself.
Schlaefer takes a strong position against what he considers a United States that has strayed from its Christian roots. He mentions he is no stranger to threats of violence, especially after announcing he was running for Congress as a republican. We ask if we’ve approached a flashpoint or a turning point for revival?
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If you want to see how the state is advocating for many different areas of Iowa, the Empower Rural Iowa Task Force would be a good place to start. It is co-chaired by Iowa Lieutenant Governor Chris Cournoyer and aims to invest, grow, and connect rural America through many different programs and initiatives.
Important aspects of maintaining rural America are being monitored by the task force. From the internet or jobs to tackling food deserts, in order to have a thriving community for U.S. farmers and their families, their needs have to be met.
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HHS released a bombshell report in July finding organ procurement organizations had began the procurement process while patients showed signs of life. But Suzanne Conrad, CEO of the Iowa Donor Network, an OPO that covers Iowa, disagrees with the framing of the story. Conrad explains how the process works in Iowa, what checks and balances are in place, and how this news has impacted organ donations.
In July, Secretary Robert F. Kennedy announced HHS’s discovery of what they consider to be disturbing behavior for an organ procurement organization (OPO) serving Kentucky, southwest Ohio, and part of West Virginia. “Our findings show that hospitals allowed the organ procurement process to begin when patients showed signs of life, and this is horrifying.
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There are many ways to be a good neighbor, for Iowa's farmers, it is an important part of telling their story. Brian Waddingham is the executive director for the Coalition to Support Iowa's Farmers he says their group was made by farmers to support farmers and that means advocacy and implementing best management practices. Guest host and farm broadcaster, David Geiger hosts in this Saturday special.
As farmer technology improves, diversification becomes more possible. Farmers are specializing, conservation practices become more common, and there's a scientific approach to the best location of livestock barns. Waddingham says they want to grow the livestock industry successfully and responsibly.
Full show notes: https://iowapodcast.com/brian-waddingham
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Painters from across the state of Iowa are coming to Madison County for a fascinating real-time art challenge. They will be assigned mystery landscape locations in the area and paint their assigned scene under time constraints all with a live audience. Sarah Pugh, the Executive Director of the Madison County Chamber of Commerce explains what this “Plein Air” event is all about.
Pugh says artist canvases will be checked and stamped on arrival and they will be assigned mystery locations. Without any preparation, artists will travel to that location and begin painting. And you can watch. At the end of their 4 hour time limit, they will be selling the art. You can experience the entire thing from beginning to end, and buy the result.
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Adam Steen is running for Iowa Governor. Appointed by Governor Reynolds in 2021 to lead the Iowa Department of Administrative Services, he announced his candidacy for Governor this week and says he’s running as “the faith guy.” But what does that mean?
Steen left no room for confusion. He explains why his faith matters to him, and explains how it would impact his Governing decisions. He explains his views on life beginning at conception, and he explains his belief in property rights as they relate to Carbon pipelines.
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Camp Creek Organic Produce owner, James Nisly is the Iowa’s organic farmer. Nisly discusses why transitions to organic farms is hard, how soil health translates to your nutrition, and how his efforts to provide healthy organic food for Iowa schools are being opposed by the US Government.
Starting in 1998, Nisly was one of the first to go organic in Iowa. Only recently, has the world caught up with what new research is starting to show: organic food is more nutritious. Nisly discusses many topics in organic farming, one of which is providing healthy organic produce for kids through school meals. Toward the end of the interview he reveals the DOD is subsidizing non-organic and processed food for kids, making organic equivalents higher in cost by comparison.
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Do you know what risks are present in your own neighborhood? Probably not says Director John Benson, of The Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. He gives advice for every Iowan in case of an emergency, because in many cases the Cavalry can’t make it until it’s too late.
Director Benson says the Iowa, FEMA, and help will eventually get to you, but it’s up to you to hold out until they arrive. He discusses flood preparedness, what changes the state if making to ensure floods happen less, and how emergency alert systems are changing as technology changes.
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As KCCI turns 70 years old, Cynthia Fodor & Steve Karlin come into the studio to take a walk down memory lane and discuss moments that defined them, and the station. The dynamic duo are known far beyond just their Iowa coverage, often leading national news cycles due to their Presidential access and finger on the USA pulse.
Karlin and Fodor discuss Democrat party pain leaving Iowa, the rise of citizen journalists, and career-defining moments that Iowans never saw on TV. They explain their favorite Iowa State Fair moments and answer the big question everyone asks: what are they doing with their time now?
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If you think Mayor Tom Phillips is joking as he petitions Buc-ee’s to build their first Iowa location in Norwalk, you’re wrong. He’s serious, it's not a PR stunt. And if you talk to him about the Norwalk master plan, it all makes sense. Mayor Phillips discusses the beloved convenience store, their growing school district, and discusses a major hush-hush $500M project.
Norwalk has grown 43% since 2010 making it the 6th faster growing state in Iowa. Houses and businesses are growing at a fast rate, and data centers are eying the area with excitement. Phillips discusses challenges to their annexation plans, interstate designation, a new library, and addresses a large plot of land Hy-Vee bought. Are they coming or not?
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MAHA, seed oils, glyphosate, nitrates, corn syrup, ethanol, processed foods, and carbon pipelines? Suddenly, Iowa has become the center of many of the political hot button issues driving the national conversation. Farm broadcaster David Geiger discusses the implications for Iowa farmers now and in the future.
Just last week, The Iowa Soybean association warned congress on trade risks and what they’re calling “MAHA misinformation.” As partisan lines get blurred and debates heat up, how do farmers feel and do they swing one way or another? Geiger breaks down all the issues. He says as political sides are formed and fights rage, their view is simple: show us the data.
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The Des Moines Register has built a massive amount of national respect for decades. The new Editor in Chief Rachel Stassen-Berger discusses restoring media trust, the Selzer Poll debacle, and answers a common Republican complaint: do they have a left-bias?
Political operatives have long-recognized the Register as a political powerhouse and Stassen-Berger is well aware of the legacy. She addresses challenging questions and details how she plans on building trust. Gallup records Americans trust congress more than they trust the national media—a fact Stassen-Berger is well aware of and plans to change.
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Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack needs a bigger business card. The newly minted CEO of the World Food Prize just completed his second White House cabinet run under President Joe Biden, previously serving in the Obama administration. Vilsack discusses food health and gives his perspective on President Biden's mental acuity in office.
As new CEO of The World Food Prize, Governor Vilsack has moved on from politics and is now focusing on The World Food Prize and Iowa Hunger Summit on July 16th. He explains why having The World Food Prize in central Iowa is a major blessing, and many Iowans have no idea this global gem exists downtown Des Moines.
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Have you seen a massive rock painted with a Veteran theme in Iowa? How about two of them? How about more? Is there something bigger behind the trend? It turns out, the Iowa artist started the project when he was 19 to honor veterans. Now every country in Iowa has one.
Artist and veteran advocate Ray “Bubba” Sorensen shares the powerful story behind his Freedom Rock Tour—99 hand-painted tributes to veterans across Iowa. Inspired by a film depicting the horrors of war, Sorensen’s mission grew from a single heartfelt mural into a nationwide movement honoring American heroes through art and storytelling.
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https://iowapodcast.com/dubuque-is-the-wall-street-journals-pick-for-travel/Iowans love it when people from the rest of the country recognize our awesomeness. This week, the state was pleasantly surprised to see just that. A piece in The Wall Street Journal hailed Dubuque, Iowa as a top summer destination. Writer David Farley joined the show to discuss why he wrote the piece and what surprises he encountered.
Farley grew up in Dubuque, leaving when he was 6. Without that personal connection, he said he probably wouldn't have thought to return. But when he did decide to give it a visit he was surprised how the city had made a complete 180. When he left, the city was hurting from layoffs and boarded up buildings, but today it's thriving. Farley's piece shines a spotlight on the thriving small town, alerting millions of WSJ readers to the local charm.
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It’s the most state-of-the-art EV charger in the country, the only one in Iowa, and you’ll never guess where it is. The V4 Tesla Supercharger is capable of an output of 350 hW per hour charging speeds and is located in Lamoni, Iowa at the Amish Country Store, right next to Amish Horse and Buggy Parking. Jeremy Sellars, owner of the store says it was a long time coming.
Tesla owners stop at the charger for roughly 5-15 minutes, sometimes more if they have a long way to go with no charging stations on their route. Other EVs that use the North American Charging Standard (NACS) can stop too. Sellars has seen an uptick in business from his store that features 100% Amish-made products, which he sources and transports himself. He explains the fascinating collision of our past and future.
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Have you heard of Pizza on the Prairie? Only in Iowa can you enjoy locally made pizza, made from scratch, out of an Italian pizza oven, sourced using ingredients grown right next to you, as you eat! Debra Houghtaling tells us why families come to learn about Iowa agriculture with their appetite!
On Friday nights in the summer, Iowans are making their way to Orient, Iowa to enjoy Pizza on the Prairie. The ultra-local pizza is made using ingredients that were grown on the farm in which the event takes place. Iowans appreciate the in-season menu that rotates weekly, and reservations are booked three weeks in advance. The event takes place at Wallace Centers of Iowa.
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Representative Eddie Andrews has announced his run for Iowa Governor. As a Republican he doesn’t align with his party's lock step on everything, specifically the glyphosate shield law and eminent domain use for carbon pipeline companies. He also discusses mental health and property taxes, and ESA transparency.
Rep. Andrews discusses his take on issues, but also expands on his focus on mental health in the state of Iowa. Having someone in his own family that has struggled with mental health, and public schools he addresses the issue from a first hand account. He also explains how mental health services can be expanded despite his desire to cut Iowa property taxes that would typically pay for such an increase.
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Does Iowa have a rising tech scene? Many community leaders may brag about it often but the reality is… well, no. Liz Keehner, Principal of Next Level Ventures explains the hard truths that many Iowans probably don’t want to hear—the money isn’t there. So is it time to pack it in or double down?
The discussion ventures into uncharted territory many Iowans are reluctant to discuss. Venture investment represents 0.2% of GDP, but generates 21% of GDP in this country, and how much of those returns come home? None. That’s not to say we don’t have successful tech companies based here—we absolutely do, but Iowans contributed almost nothing. Do we want startups here or just more fake “innovation?”
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Is Des Moines Water Works tap water safe? That depends on who you ask. Medical podcaster Dr. Andrew Huberman has recommended filtering your tap water on his popular show Huberman Lab due to new studies on DBPs and negative effects from fluoride. Polk County Supervisor Matt McCoy discusses water safety, addresses concerns, and explains why Des Moines Water Works is developing a new marketing campaign designed to encourage immigrants and low-income people to drink more tap water.
Citing studies on DBPs as potential endocrine disruptors and fluoridated water lowering IQ scores in children, Huberman, among other experts like Dr. Staci Whitman, have cautioned listeners to evaluate their own water quality in their area. The scientific community remains divided on issues of water fluoridation and purification.
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State Auditor Rob Sand is running for Iowa Governor. As the lone Democrat in Iowa public office, backed by a significantly weaker Democrat party, is he going to run as a Democrat or Independent? He discussed why he may not actually be opposed to the new ESA law, how he'll handle a GOP majority, and discusses his opposition to gender being removed from the Iowa Civil Rights Act.
Sand is positioning himself as an independent voice for Iowans but he has a difficult road ahead, especially as the national Democrat party faces a 30% approval rate, which is likely to lower after polls are conducted post the Biden cover-up news. But Sand is hopeful and explains why the time is perfect to win his campaign for Governor.
Find your favorite player or watch the full video here: https://iowapodcast.com/rob-sand-for-governor
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For the first time in history, the Pope isn’t just from the United States, but from the midwest! Pope Leo XIV hails from Chicago, and this close proximity to Iowa could have an impact. Tom Chapman, Executive Director of The Iowa Catholic Conference discusses Pope Leo’s history, what it means for Iowans, and tackles the big question we all want to know: is Pope Leo going to make a Midwest visit?
Pope Leo XIV has been the center of attention for the last week, and many want to know what kind of Pope he will be. Will he be political, as was Pope Francis, or will he be more reserved? Will he break tradition or keep it? Will he change the Catholic Church or maintain the status quo? These are the questions we tackle, separating fact from fiction.
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In today's episode guest host Mark Gannon sit down with Jessica Mazour of the Iowa Sierra Club and the carbon pipeline - what is it? Who's behind? And, most importantly, how does it affect us?
Some topics discussed include:
- The use of tax dollars by a private company to fund this project
- Use of eminent domain for a private company. How is this allowed?
- The damage to our Iowa land.
- Safety around the pipeline and what accidents have already occurred
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Farms aren’t fun. Right? Someone tell Samantha (Sammy) Petersen of Bloomsbury Farms in Atkins, Iowa. As a 5th generation farmer she has helped her parents build an agritourism destination in the Eastern Iowa empire. While many Iowa farms have been jumping into the agritourism trend, Peterson says her mother jumped on the trend 30 years ago. Talk about agritourism trendsetters!
Starting out as a grain farm, today Bloomsbury Farms is growing “U-Pick” flowers, has acres of tulip gardens, and of course has a pumpkin patch, but the big attraction is Instagram-worthy experience. Petersen explains all the thought that went around creating an immersive outdoor farm experience for their guests. They’ve even gone as far to help guests pick the right time for that cute photo with their golden-hour date night, and strategically placed camera stands so you can rub it in your coastal elite friends’ faces.
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In this episode of The Iowa Podcast, guest host Rob Newton chats with Elizabeth Weyers, Manager of the Downtown Farmers’ Market at the Greater Des Moines Partnership, as she shares what’s ahead for the 2025 season starting May 3rd. With over 300 vendors participating, Elizabeth highlights the Market’s wide-ranging showcase of Iowa’s agricultural bounty, food producers, artisans, and small businesses. She outlines the blend of new offerings and crowd-favorite vendors, making this year’s Market a must-visit experience for both newcomers and longtime supporters.
Beyond its charm as a weekend destination, the Market is a key economic driver for Des Moines. Elizabeth explains how it fosters local entrepreneurship, fuels downtown business activity through increased foot traffic, and serves as a launching point for small enterprises. The conversation also covers community partnerships, live entertainment, and inclusive programming that strengthens local food systems while ensuring accessibility for all. Whether you're craving fresh produce or community connection, the episode paints the Market as an essential seasonal event with wide-reaching benefits.
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If you’re a fan of Iowa’s famous breaded pork tenderloin, this special Iowa Eats edition of The Iowa Podcast is a must-listen. Guest host and fifth-generation chef Jensen Cummings chats with JayJay Goodvin—aka The Iowa Gallivant—about his flavorful journey across all 99 counties in search of the state’s best tenderloin.
Broadcast from Jethro’s BBQ studio in Des Moines, JayJay shares what went into crowning a champion pork sandwich, and dives into his latest food adventures—from the Iowa Beef Council’s Best Burger finalists to his new “Specials” tour featuring unique dishes county by county.
Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/jayjay-goodvin-iowa-eats
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Public transit in Iowa is a challenge. Cities like Des Moines are more expansive and were built around the automobile. There are upsides of course, but it makes public transit quite a challenge. DART CEO, Amanda Wanke explains why central Iowan’s shouldn’t expect profitability any time soon, and speaks about their plans to address future budget shortfalls.
Public transit, says Wanke, is a challenge in many American cities. People who have a 5-15 commute by car are unlikely to take a bus that could take 30 minutes to 1 hour. COVID also cut into their margins a bit as more people found work-from-home solutions. But with extra funding on the horizon, and new route plans, Wanke is confident in DART’s future plans and ability to serve the greater Des Moines metro.
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How do Iowa storm chasers get incredible footage? Do they go 120mph in sports cars around the state? Actually no, they just book a hotel room near the area they suspect of tornadic activity. Todd Rector with The Iowa Storm Chasing Network says they have advance notice. But there’s a breakdown in how that information is communicated to you.
Getting the word out and Iowans can be a challenge, the communication delay can be significant if alert systems are outdated, he says. Adding additional confusion, he says Iowans are facing alert fatigue. When sirens do go off, they’re unclear if it’s for high winds, or an actual tornado. He also says our alert system is actually vulnerable to bad actors.
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If you ask some, the anti-Trump and Elon Musk protests are saving Democracy. If you ask others, the're burning Tesla stores and vandalizing property. Saturday protest organizer, Michaelyn Mankel describes their objectives, and tells us if anyone is getting paid to protest.
Mankel says their objectives are around concerns with President Trump, Elon Musk, DOGE, and Congressman Zach Nunn are around them cutting social security, medicare, and medicaid despite their claims those benefits won't be removed. She says violence won't be tolerated at the protests, and protestors should not bring Nazi symbols or Hitler-depictions as we've seen in other states. She says they would appreciate Nunn meeting with them, and even mentioned what condtions may cause them to applaud him.
See the video & show notes: https://iowapodcast.com/des-moines-anti-trump-elon-musk-protest
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Kevin Foley has led the Des Moines International Airport for over a decade and is retiring in April, handing off operations to Brian Mulcahy. In this special episode, Mulcahy introduces himself to Iowans and Foley takes a walk down memory lane, including getting through the emotional period of the COVID-related global shutdown. This interview took place at the DSM Airport on video, between terminals A and C.
Brian Mulcahy joins the airport with aviation experience as a helicopter pilot from the Des Moines National Guard. Mulcahy outlines what the next few years look like and introduces himself to Iowans. Kevin Foley, who has been on The Iowa Podcast several times, takes listeners on a walk down memory lane, and announces new routes and hints at a new airline coming to Iowa shortly.
Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/dsm-airport
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What’s new for the Iowa Cubs 2025 Season? General Manager and President, Sam Bernabe joins us. For starters the Iowa Cubs have seven of MLB Pipeline’s Top 100 playing right here for the Iowa Cubs.
It’s a great way to build momentum on what was already an incredibly talented year in 2024. We also find out why only ONE person operates the T-Shirt cannon and has never missed a game.
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It’s a shaky time for Iowa basketball. Iowa Hawkeye men axe Fran McCaffery after a bad year. Iowa Hawkeye women have lost momentum in the post Clark era, and Iowa State men and women basketball have an average tournament showing. As Drake’s head coach Brian McCollum heads to Iowa however, are they the real winner? Ross Peterson of The Rush suggests this apparent loss may be a huge advantage.
The Drake Bulldogs have now lost three high performing coaches, but as Peterson points out. They now find themselves as a pipeline that attracts premium coaching talent. Does this make Drake University the place to go for coaches who work hard and want to rise through the ranks? Will Drake use this as a recruiting advantage for coaches and players. Peterson thinks so.
Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/ross-peterson-the-rush
Building a Tiny Home in Iowa or an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) sounds straightforward, but Iowa law makes it anything but simple—a new bill may rectify that. Depending on which city you live in, the laws and regulations may be entirely different. According to Mike Stuart, founder of Tiny Homes of Iowa, this complexity is driving costs up for home buyers entering a new stage of life, but it might not be who you think.
Shockingly, younger buyers aren’t interested in low-cost tiny homes; retirees seeking to downside are. With high housing prices, Iowans entering their 70s are wanting to live in their communities and near their families, but are having difficulty. It turns out, finding smaller houses to downside into is hard as builders and cities prioritize more square footage. A new Iowa bill under consideration may force cities to allow ADUs.
Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/tiny-homes-of-iowa-adu
Is Christianity on the decline in Iowa? The data may not paint the entire picture, explains Pastor Rob Pearson, Youth and Connections Pastor of Living Waters Fellowship. In 2007, 78% of people identified as a Christian, today the number is 63%. But the definition of “Christian” is also changing.
Pearson explains that many Iowans he speaks to, despite claiming to be a Christian, tell him they aren’t actually sure what that means. In that same vein, people from other countries assume everyone from the USA are Christians. Are people really turning away from Christianity or are Iowans finally understanding what Christianity means?
Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-churches-christianity
Move over Dos Equis guy, Bruce Gerleman may very well be the most interesting man in Iowa. As the founder of Jethro’s, he reacts to the original Jethro’s location burning to the ground, a property he sold years ago. He also discusses his background in Iowa, how he paid for a building by selling the inventory inside it, why he coached Superman and Aquaman, and the origin story of the Adam Emmenecker challenge.
Gerleman recounts the origins of Jethro's, his second restaurant concept in Iowa after Splash Seafood in Downtown Des Moines. He mentions he wanted to bring Texas BBQ to Iowa, but with a unique Iowa spin. He also takes us on a fun trip down memory lane discussing how the Adam Emmencker challenge was created, and how a small woman holds the record over some big burly guys, including the host of Man Vs Food.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/bruce-gerleman-jethros
For those not in the know, just being recognized by The James Beard foundation is a big achievement, and Andy Schumacher of Cobble Hill in Cedar Rapids has the bragging rights. The celebrity chef, who was beaten by Guy Fieri on a reality show, discusses fine dining in Iowa.
The chef and owner graduated from The University of Iowa and decided to move to Brooklyn, NY to pursue cooking. After sharing the stage on The Next Food Network Star with Guy Fieri, who ended up beating him, he eventually brought his culinary skill back to Iowa.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/cobble-hill-andy-schumacher
A new bill, SSB1051, could shield pesticide manufacturers from civil litigation from Iowans. Senator Tony Bisignano explains his opposition to the bill, saying if it’s discovered an organization exposed Iowans to carcinogens, they should face lawsuits like anyone else. But with political lines changing, is this a Republican or Democrat issue?
Bayer who own Monsanto, makers of RoundUp, are pushing the legislation. They argue if a pesticide receives EPA approval they should be safe from civil lawsuits. Bill opponents argue because we don’t yet know if these chemicals are linked to Iowa cancer rates, we shouldn’t rush to protect companies potentially causing the rise. Republicans are mostly in support of the bill, however with Robert F. Kennedy Junior, a public dissident of glyphosate, being installed as HHS Director last week does that change things?
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/SSB1051-cancer-gag-tony-bisignano-bayer
Where did WHO TV anchor Elias Johnson go? The lifelong newsman has been a fixture in Des Moines news. Before filling the evening news position vacated by Dan Winters September of 2022, Johnson was on WOI, Channel 5. But in August of 2024 just short of two years at Channel 13 he left to lead communications at Fareway. But why?
"It was a personal life issue of missing my family and not being able to do my number one job, which is being a dad," he said. "There is quite a long time where the only thing I could do to get ready for bed is pour a whiskey, or pour a drink, and then just kind of chill out... But that's not healthy." So he made the choice to make healthier choices.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/where-did-elias-johnson-go
Why is Captain Roys hosting a massive party in the middle of February? We ask owner Wade Thompson about Shiver On The River and who will win the tug-of-war between the Des Moines Police Department and The Des Moines Fire Department. We also talk about East and North side development.
Birdland Marina, Highland Park, and Des Moines North and East Side have been somewhat stagnant for years, but in the last few years development has started and central Iowans have shown an interest in new development including at Birdland Marina. It's an exciting time for the region, says Thompson.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/captain-roys-wade-thompson-shiver-on-the-river
What Des Moines Airport updates for 2025 should Iowans plan for? Kevin Foley, executive director of the Des Moines International Airport (DSM) shares parking updates, expanded rental car operations, more parking, how art will be structurally designed into the airport itself, and how they’re planning for robo-taxis and driverless drop offs!
Des Moines International Airport (DSM) has been serving Iowa since the 1920s. Airport upgrades including interior renovations completed in 2010, and the addition of LED apron lighting in 2019 for energy efficiency, but DSM has needed expansion for many years. Finally, those plans became a reality during a groundbreaking on a $445M terminal expansion project that started in 2023, with the new terminal set to open in late 2026. Foley Shares progress and what Iowans should plan for in 2025.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/des-moines-airport-updates-2025-dsm
Why did a Chinese AI app called Deep Seek crush our markets? Was any of it real? What is Stargate? Is Iowa an attractive location for data centers because of cheap land and energy? Will the AI race impact Iowans and do we really want more server farms here? AI consultant and early employee of Roboflow, Mohamed Traore explains.
There's a new story on AI every day, but most folks' experience with "AI" from tools like OpenAI or cheap apps is lackluster. But not only will AI transform every industry, but the impact on Iowa specifically could be huge as tech companies salivate over our cheap land and cheap energy.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/Iowa-AI-data-centers-mohamed-traore
Governor Reynolds announced a new flat tax rate for Iowans, hitting her target 1 year early. While it sounds great to save money on taxes, does this change anything for Iowans? Alec Epkes of Protego Advisors explains there are “levers” you can pull in January to impact your tax burden that can’t be pulled in December.
Epkes explains the President's proposed extension of The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), explains why social security checks are taxed, and breaks down the changes for Iowans. He also explains how to handle itemized deductions. What does that even mean?
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-flat-tax-alec-epkes-protego-advisors
Does President Trump’s executive order end birthright citizenship in the USA? Some assume the order is invalidated by the 14th amendment, however it’s not cut and dry. Even children born in the USA by parents here legally, granted citizenship. Lori Chesser, an immigration attorney and President of Dentons law breaks down the legal side in non-partisan detail.
President Trump’s executive order, titled “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship” opens up dialogue even lawyers didn’t expect. While the 14th amendment does grant citizenship to people born here, that is “subject to the jurisdiction thereof.” These 5 words are where the debate centers. For example, even children born here from parents of legal status don’t qualify for citizenship like people visiting on VISAs or Diplomats. President Trump’s This order is likely to be challenged in court for years to come.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/trump-birthright-citizenship-immigration-executive-order
Perhaps one of the most provocative campaign videos we’ve ever seen in Iowa has been circulating online and the message is clear, “You suck, Joni.” Former Libertarian, Joshua Smith has joined the Republican Party to primary Ernst. As a former Californian, he introduces himself to Iowans and lays out his plan.
Smith says the party has completely transformed under Trump and intends to be the anti-war, anti-special interest candidate. He expands on why funding for war efforts like those in Ukraine and Israel must end and explains when it’s appropriate to show military force and when it’s not. He also addresses why he won’t be swayed by special interests.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/joshua-smith-iowa-senate
This week, Iowa's Attorney General cautioned Iowans on a new "grandparent" scam hitting Iowans. Scammers target elderly Iowans by posing as their grand child using social media content or other information. Then they ask for money. Cybersecurity professional Brandon Potter of ProCircular, explains the scam and unpacks scams to watch in 2025.
With AI and voice cloning, scams are going to become more sophisticated. Scammers can clone your loved one's voice without your knowledge, and even manipulate caller ID. What are Iowans to do, especially as older Iowans who are using the internet more, fall victim to new scams every day?
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/grandparent-scam-iowa
In this special New Years day episode of The Iowa Podcast, Justin Brady shares how The Iowa Podcast is doing, why it's beating local media in many metrics, and asks to share the show if you haven't already. Brady also discusses why media trust and ratings are dropping, and how they can turn the ship around.
He also rebuke's people who would dare celebrate the UHC murdered, and explains why the problems with healthcare costs aren't just an insurance problem—it's actually quite complicated, and not one person or entity is to blame.
Share the show by sharing this link. We will also be uploading the video version here. https://iowapodcast.com/Iowa-New-Year
The official numbers from the The Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division have been released for 2024 and we ask the owner of Foundry Distillery to guess them all. Scott Bush, who was also the founder of Templeton Rye takes a stab at the top 5 national and top 5 local Iowa brands and is shockingly accurate.
We discuss the bizarre law that drives up your booze prices, why new liquor competition has exploded in Iowa, and Justin admits his disdain for one of Iowa’s most-loved whiskey brands: Black Velvet. Iowa, we need to have a talk—this is not acceptable behavior!
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-favorite-liquor-2024
Iowa sports broadcasting icon Ross Peterson joins Justin Brady to discuss his unexpected dismissal from KXNO after 21 years, his journey to rediscovering purpose, and his predictions for the future of sports.
Peterson offers insights into the potential dwindling relevance of bowl games amid collegiate sports changes, and reacts to a fascinating theory on basketball star Caitlin Clark potentially taking her talents to Europe.
Go to our website for photos and video: https://iowapodcast.com/ross-peterson
Even if you bought your house in the last 10 years, in some cases your value has nearly doubled. It might feel good if you’re an owner, but for first-time home buyers it’s discouraging. But inflation is also a concern for boomers who doubt their ability to sell at a good price. What does 2025 have in store? Mark Charter of Agency Iowa brings some clarity.
Charter explains why interest rates matter more than you think, why there's a lot of inventory just sitting, and the odd phenomenon of younger home buyers who are angry that housing prices are too high, but at the same time think they can have it all in their first home. Whether you’re looking to buy a house, sell, or wait it out, this discussion is for you.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-first-time-home-buyer
A new global trend of no-cut sustainable Christmas trees is here, and Iowans are on “cutting” edge. The locally grown trees use special pots that sit in the ground, but when Christmas time arrives, they are transported to your home. When Christmas is over, the tree is returned to the tree farm and the tree is never cut, says Josh Larson of QsTN.
Larson says they approached local farm Bentley Ridge with the idea last year and they were happy to partner. The company delivers your tree in a pot, and picks it up at season’s end. You also have the option of planting in your own yard as a keepsake. The new trend is just emerging across the globe, and a few parts of the USA. Larson says they’re hoping the movement grows.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/no-cut-sustainable-christmas-trees
The town of Winterset Iowa takes Christmas seriously. Known for the bridges of Madison County, they also have a vibrant town square with vendors coordinating for the ultimate Christmas experience. Amara Huffine, CEO of the Winterset Chamber of Commerce describes their Festival of Lights, Tree Lighting, parade, and how all vendors are decorating their store fronts.
Huffine says the chamber office, which has a corner office on the square will feature live ballet dancers acting out scenes from The Nutcracker. There will also be food vendors set up in the square. The Festival of Lights on Nov 29th carries over into Small Business Saturday on Nov 30th, featuring local artisans and curators.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/winterset-festival-of-lights
In this episode of The Iowa Podcast, guest host Jim Langin interviews Troy Strawhecker, an entrepreneur and community leader known for his exceptional communication skills and dedication to giving back. Strawhecker shares insights from his career and personal life, offering listeners a glimpse into the principles that guide his success in building genuine, lasting relationships. Raised in a large family, he learned early the value of communication and authenticity, and he has since applied these skills to his roles as co-founder of Premier Real Estate Services and partner in JT Logistics.
Strawhecker’s approach to relationships is grounded in authenticity and respect, which he views as crucial for effective communication. This outlook has been a cornerstone in both his business and personal life, helping him connect meaningfully with others and build strong partnerships over the years.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/troy-strawhecker-power-of-giving
On this episode of the Iowa Podcast, host Jensen Cummings dives into Iowa’s vibrant food culture with Marvin Azzopardi, a passionate entrepreneur behind EatFuti, Local Bites Food Hall, and All-City Catering. Together, they explore the dynamic Des Moines Farmers Market— America's second-largest— and discuss how it shapes the local culinary scene. Marvin shares how he connects Iowa farmers, chefs, and diners to create a community that celebrates locally-sourced food. They discuss Marvin’s journey in the food industry and his commitment to fostering connections, from the iconic farmers market to Local Bites in downtown Des Moines.
Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at Iowa's food scene as Marvin spotlights chefs like Joe from Harbinger, who collaborate directly with farmers to bring local flavors to their menus. Marvin also shares his vision for Local Bites, a hub for diverse cuisines like Baba’s Gyros, MmmBap Korean, and What A Pho, where small food businesses can thrive. The episode also highlights the innovative EatFuti app, designed to support local eateries and enhance off-premise dining. Marvin discusses his community work with organizations like Best Buddies, showing his dedication to making a positive impact beyond the plate.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/marvin-azzopardi-iowa-food-culture
The Grout Museum district has a special museum devoted to Iowa Veterans, the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum. The Waterloo museum, to date, has captured over 2300 stories from Iowa veterans to date. Oral historian Pat Kinney explains how oral history project works and shares the Iowa veteran stories that stand out.
The Grout Museum was founded in 1956 from the estate of Waterloo philanthropist Henry Grout. Today Waterloo has one of 38 special destinations in the country as a World War II Heritage City. The Sullivan Brothers were a large part of that designation, says Kinney. He explains the significance, and re-tells the incredibly tragic story of The Sullivan Brothers.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/grout-museum-sullivan-brothers-pat-kinney
What a week! Beggars night made national news thanks to Caitlin Clark, why do we celebrate that? Also have a major Presidential election, will Iowa change colors? Has it always been red? It may seem like a weird time in Iowa, but Iowans have always been just a little... well, weird. State Historical Society Curator, Leo Landis tells us why.
Some Iowans still observe beggar's night but although it never caught on nationally, a few other cities did join for a while. Landis explains why hooligan behavior started it, and we also discuss why our elections used to have separate ballots for Democrats and Republicans. (Imagine the ugly looks from your neighbors!) Was Iowa always a red state, or blue state? Or was it purple?
https://iowapodcast.com/beggars-night-election-night-leo-landis
After receiving an Iowa Tourism Award, a unique haunted house in Pocahontas, Iowa is back by popular demand for year two! Parker Aden, executive director of the Pocahontas Chamber of Commerce explains why The PocaHAUNTus Haunted House happens at the local fire house.
The PocaHAUNTus haunted house takes place in the local firehouse's training area, giving the town plenty of space to experiment and create a spooky environment for Northwestern Iowa. The final days for the Haunted House are October 25th and 26th and admission is a fundraiser for the Chamber of Commerce, Local Firehouse, and Meals on Wheels.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/parker-aden-pocaHAUNTus
The carbon pipeline is set to run through Iowa, but many Iowans have safety concerns and believe residents, farmers and landowners are being misled. Steve Kenkel, Chairman of the Shelby County Board of Supervisors says leaks have severely injured folks in the past and disabled vehicles. He also says eminent domain laws may be used to force landowners compliance to the benefit of private companies.
Kenkel gives specific safety hazard examples and questions why pipeline companies and government officials are witholding safety training and models. He also says landowners may be forced to give up their property for the pipeline project due to use of Eminant domain laws. He also suggests these pipelines aren't even needed in the first place, due to easy alternatives to store CO2.
Important Note: We reached out to the pipeline company mentioned in the interview on 10/16/24 at 1:45PM for comment and will post any reply here. Every story has multiple sides.
Watch the interview at https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-carbon-pipeline-steve-kenkel
Photo: Gage Skidmore from Surprise, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0
One year ago, the world watched in horror as Hamas terrorists invaded Israel slaughtering as many Jews as they could find. Jarad Bernstein of the Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines joined us one year ago with hope the international community would fully support Israel and the Jewish people. What happened instead is tragic: the international community turned its back on Israel and the Jewish people, as did people in our own country. Our Iowa leaders have something to say about that.
Bernstein gave remarks at an Evening of Community and Unity alongside Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, and other lawmakers, fully supporting Israel, and the Jewish community of Iowa. Bernstein explains his surprise at the United Nations support of terrorists over Israel and discusses sadness over hostages still being held by Hamas. We discuss how Iran and Hezbollah have turned up the pressure, joining Hamas, and what it will take to end this conflict.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/jewish-federation-iowa-jarad-bernstein
Discussion in recent weeks has centered around pesticides and toxins in the food we grow, much of it from Iowa. According to Professor Neil Hamilton, creator of The Iowa Nature Summit and Drake law professor, we apply pesticides to over 25 million acres of farmland each year, but what impact is that really having? Does that have something to do with our 2nd in the nation cancer rates? There's no easy answer.
The Iowa Nature Summit is at Drake University October 9-10. Although a nature summit may have previously been for the "crunchy granola" folks, the connection between nature and human health is becoming more obvious with both political parties showing renewed interest in the degrading environment around us.
See the video and full show notes: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-nature-summit-neil-hamilton
Van Harden of WHO Radio’s Van and Bonnie Show has been retired from radio for years. He sat down to discuss what he’s been up to, his reaction to seeing the famous WHO Radio microphone in the Reagan film, and he reacts to local radio’s struggle to maintain focus on their community.
Harden presided not only as host of Iowa’s most popular morning show, but as program director for the state’s largest news radio station. After leaving however, the station has struggled to stay relevant, sliding in ratings and losing critical staff. He discusses his new chapter, a new forthcoming book, and gives advice to small businesses wanting to use podcasts as a tool to reach new customers.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/van-harden-who-radio
Libertarian Marco Battaglia, challenger for Congressman Zach Nunn in Iowa's 3rd congressional district, was kicked off the ballot but most Iowans don't understand why. The reason? Iowa Libertarians voted 181 minutes too early. Adding insult to injury, Battaglia says they caught the error but were told by the Iowa Secretary of State's Office and his own party, it wouldn't be a concern.
As the majority of the country now identifies as independent, nearly %50, why can't Libertarian seem to win anyone over to their side? Does their image need an overhaul? Battaglia explains why Libertarians come with some baggage, addresses concerns most Iowans have with the party, and explains why marijuana legalization, now seeing acceptance from both parties, may have harmed party growth.
See the show notes and full video here: https://iowapodcast.com/marco-battaglia-iowa-libertarian
For the next year, Iowa is a Cyclone state. In the annual CyHawk face-off, the Iowa State University Cyclones beat the University of Iowa Hawkeyes and all the bragging rights that come with it. How'd they do it? It was the uniforms. Their head of equipment breaks down the entire process and explains how they're made, and how player heads are digitally scanned to custom-fit their helmets.
Jon Sedgwick, Director of Equipment Operations for Iowa State University Athletics, said the uniform design process takes up to two years to complete. Collaborating closely with Nike, Sedgwick shares how details like color schemes and fabric materials are carefully chosen to not only enhance performance but also ensure that the team looks sharp on the field. He adds, “If you look good, you play good,” emphasizing how the right gear boosts players’ confidence. He's not wrong, research actually backs this claim, which is a topic for another time.
See the video and photos: https://iowapodcast.com/jonathan-sedgwick-ISU-uniforms
The RFK endorsement of Donald Trump highlighted an issue that most people don’t think about on a daily basis. Is food in the USA safe or does it fuel chronic disease? Are pesticides getting into our food? Are seed oils worse than other oils? What is processed food, and why does it matter? Registered dietitian Kelli Hanson provides a research-backed overview.
Hanson discusses why most people are magnesium deficient, how to increase your intake of healthy foods, and why you don’t feel full after a meal—it’s not that you didn’t eat enough. She also explains why a meat-free diet can result in hormone or women’s fertility problems if you’re not careful. Maybe you should eat that nice juicy ribeye after all.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/is-food-in-the-usa-safe-kelli-hanson
The 2024 DNC has concluded but the road ahead remains difficult for Kamala Harris. Former Democratic Candidate for Iowa Governor and Harris advisor, Deidre DeJear discusses what’s next and addresses the Robert F. Kennedy and Tulsi Gabbard endorsements. Did they suck the wind out of Harris sails? Do Democrats have a problem?
DeJear recounts the 2019 election when Harris dropped out before the Iowa Caucuses, later becoming President Joe Biden’s VP Pick. Today, Harris faces several challenges. Prominent figures in her own party have endorsed Donal Trump, and she’s facing a tough choice whether she needs to distance herself from President Biden’s policies or embrace them. DeJear offers her perspective on embracing those policies and accepting responsibility, committing to learn from the challenges. See the video: https://iowapodcast.com/deidre-dejear-kamala-harris
Before COVID, it was on the rise, but after COVID, “it has skyrocketed," says Navy SEAL Robert Carter. Carter has an MBA from The University of Iowa. We address challenges in Police response, new Iowa laws that take a proactive approach and how AI technology can reduce shootings, while maintaining privacy.
School shootings have been on the rise since the 1960s, with a significant increase following the COVID-19 pandemic and sadly real solutions are overlooked in favor of political finger pointing. The truth is, there are solutions and with a new law in Iowa, schools can use high-tech solutions to prevent tragedy.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-school-shootings
The 2024-2025 school year in Iowa is here and for parents that means clutter and school supplies all over the floor, balancing conflicting schedules, packing healthy lunches without needing a PhD in Nutrition, and going to culinary school. Professional Organizer, Jennifer Robb, founder of Simple Organizing Strategies gives her trade secrets to keeping it shockingly simple.
Robb works with parents under pressure. She says one of the most crucial things they can adopt is understanding each child’s organizational style. Most parents make the mistake of assuming all children can adopt the exact same process—but this ends up in fights, high emotions, and lots of tears. But by taking a small step back, you can avoid the tantrums and bring peace to the chaos.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-back-to-school-organization
As the regional director of Youth For Christ and Christian living in Beirut, John Sagherian's perspective on Israel, Palestine crosses known political lines and talking points we've heard. Last week, a senior Hezbollah commander was killed in an Israeli airstrike 2 miles from his home. Part Iowan, part Lebanese, he gives his honest thoughts nearly one year into the conflict and how his home has been impacted.
Sagherian reminds us the people impacted on both sides are in a lot of pain. They both need help, and the majority in the region are desperately hoping for peace.
See the full show notes: https://iowapodcast.com/israel-vs-palestine-its-not-that-simple
Thirteen years ago The Iowa State Fair told Scott Carlson where he could put the brand new Iowa Craft Beer tent behind Diamond Jacks—a place no one would see. That didn't stop him and Iowa brewers across the state from outgrowing it, causing a move into the new giant tent they have today.
Carlson tells of why, despite pouring beers left and right, their entire operation went completely unnoticed by The Iowa State Patrol. He explains the significance of the sirens and bullhorn that go off occasionally, and why people get excited when they kick the keg and have to wait 5 min for their beer.
Hear Part 1 of our Iowa State Fair Podcast Special with the founder of Watcha Smokin' BBQ and her brisket "bribery" scheme here: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-state-fair-podcast-special
After making the top 3 best Iowa State Fair foods last year, Gwen Page of Watcha Smokin' BBQ is back in the top three with her Iowa Sm'Oak'ed Roll looking for a win out of 84 submissions. For those that don't know, it's highly competitive getting accepted in the Iowa State Fair as a food vendor. We ask how she made it in, and she confessed to brisket bribery!
Because Page has been going to the fair since a child, and is now a vendor, she tells her best secrets on how to make the most of the Iowa State Fair, especially if you have little kids.
Hear part 2 of our Iowa State Fair Podcast special with the founder of the Iowa Craft Beer tent here: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-state-fair-podcast-special
The RNC is over, Donald Trump has received the nomination, Joe Biden is out and VP Harris has received his endorsement. It’s been a wild week for Republicans and the GOP, but the former President still has a long road ahead. Conservative Pundit and writer Shane Vander Hart discusses an RNC recap and gives his analysis on what the future holds.
Vander Hart explains why Trump must be cautious playing the victim for his legal troubles, and gives his take on why the Republican Party changed their platform to be less pro life. He discusses Vice President Harris’ prospects, and if the softer more reserved Trump will win any GOP holdouts.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/Shane-Vander-Hart
Waterways breathe and when you over engineer the way God designed them, it tends to have disastrous effects. Hannah Inman, CEO of the Great Outdoors Foundation, discusses water conservation in Iowa, watershed, flooding, and the official central Iowa ICON waterway project.
Inman also addresses the misconception that Iowa lacks outdoor activities, highlighting the state's network of over 800 miles of connected paved trails. She addresses water quality concerns, how to restore our native wetlands, and how Iowa farmers and outdoor enthusiasts are working together with tech companies to fix the flooding.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/hannah-inman-great-outdoors-foundation
Photo: Greg Henshall, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
80/35 this weekend features big acts like Killer Mike and OK Go but they have a few tricks up their sleeve. Because the event has moved from Downtown Des Moines to Waterworks Park, they've added some new features like camping, free stages, and what they're calling a "silent stage." What is that? Executive Director, Andy TeBockhorst explains what it is and why they're doing it.
80/35 is a massive event that expects to attract between twenty to thirty thousand people. The event, staffed by nearly 500 volunteers is put on by the Des Moines Music Coalition build a bigger music industry in the state of Iowa, making Iowa a music destination. TeBochorst discusses the hammock forest, vendors, community village, and how the event has evolved.
See the show notes and videos at https://iowapodcast.com/8035-andy-tebockhorst
Yankee Doodle Pops is a 4th of July celebration put on by the Des Moines Symphony every year on the state Capitol lawn. Maestro Joseph Giunta discusses how 9-11 changed his view of patriotism, and why it’s important to celebrate our troops and those who sacrificed. He also explains how he times 1812 overture cannon fire during their live performance.
Giunta has been with the Des Moines Symphony for 35 years. He recalls the early years when he considered the Des Moines Symphony as stuffy and explains why The Yankee Doodle Pops idea was actually started during his time in Minnesota. He also explains why music education is extremely valuable to our youngsters.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/yankee-doodle-pops-joseph-giunta
In a recent interview with Justin Brady on the Iowa Podcast, Keith Murphy, renowned sportscaster and radio host, shared insights and anecdotes from his illustrious 28-year career at WHO Channel 13 and his 15-year stint at KXNO radio. Murphy discussed the end of the Murph and Andy show, the dynamics of sports broadcasting, and his deep connection to Iowa.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/keith-murphy
Northeastern Iowa, specifically Clayton Country is breathtaking, and camping is one of the best ways to experience it. Sadly, camping can also be quite intimidating for many. Kenny Slocum of Clayton County Conservation discusses their programs for kids through older adults, designed to make you an experienced camper in no time.
Slocum is a Naturalist and Resource Manager for Clayton County Conservation. He dives into their brand new modern campground, set to launch in May of 2025, and he discusses their recently renovated 19th Century Motor Mill Historic Inn—the first project of many in that area. Clayton County Conservation manages 1400 acres, across 13 parks and natural areas. They have 3 rivers to paddle, over 20 miles of trails, and 3 different trout streams, one of which is famous.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/clayton-county-campsite-campfire-motor-mill-historic-inn
The Iowa Speedway in Newton won’t just be hosting the very first NASCAR Cup Series in its history, but can also brag about setting a sell-out record, says Iowa Speedway President Eric Peterson. The pre-sales were so large, there were no tickets available by the time tickets actually opened. Quite the accomplishment for Peterson who just took over the role in February of 2024.
This weekend from June 14-16th will be quite intense. Even though Sunday is sold out, there are still tickets available for the Xfinity Series and ARCA Menards Series as of this interview. Peterson explains what’s so unique about the Cup Series, talks on the Iowa Speedway’s future in light of the 2021 turnaround, and previews all the top drivers coming to Iowa, including some home state favorites.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/nascar-cup-iowa-speedway
In a special episode of the Iowa Podcast, guest host Mark Rixner explores the rising trend of mid-career changes with Laura Lacina, the visionary behind Home Slice Handmade Pies. Laura shares her inspirational journey from corporate roles to entrepreneurship, highlighting the challenges and rewards of pursuing one's passion.
Laura Lacina’s professional journey is a testament to the power of pursuing one's passion. Beginning with a degree in public relations from Northwest Missouri State University, Laura navigated various roles, including positions in a call center, AmeriCorps, and a nonprofit organization. Despite initial success, she found herself unfulfilled. "I needed creativity. I needed some kind of stimulation in that way," she explains.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/laura-lacina-home-slice-handmade-pies
Climbing Kites has rapidly become a leader in the burgeoning world of THC-infused beverages, bringing a new kind of social drink to the Midwest. Dave Moore (CEO) and Scott Selix (co-founder) share their journey, the legal landscape, and the cultural shift toward these unique products.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/dave-moore-scott-selix-climbing-kites
If you think Iowa is flat, you've never ridden the Boone Scenic Valley Railroad. Director Mike Wendel explains how the tracks were almost completely lost in 1983, but saved. He also tells how you can enjoy the railroad in open air cars, with dinner, or even on specialized bikes that go over the 150 foot bridge!
The railroad opens for their regular season this weekend, May 24th. Wendel, who is the Director of the James H. Andrew Railroad Museum and History Center, gives us an overview of the rich history and the how the tracks were saved for recreational purposes by Boone residents to the tune of over 2.5 million dollars, and why the trains were converted from steam to electric, and then back again.
See show links and notes here: https://iowapodcast.com/boone-scenic-valley-railroad-mike-wendel
The Orange City Tulip Festival is this weekend, you should go. Executive Committee Promo Chair, Jennie Droog gives you a sneak peek at the events, food, and festivities. She also tells us about their obsession over authentic period-accurate costumes. Oh, and yes, we had to ask about the "other" tulip festival. Do they compete with Pella? Are there secret cage matches?
Droog has been involved with the Orange City Tulip Festival since her birth. She's been a volunteer for years and now helps run the annual festival. She explains the history of their Dutch heritage and gives a sneak peek at all the work involved in planting 50,000 tulips. She also digs into the mind-blowing economic impact the festival has on the town of Orange City.
See the full show notes and photos at https://iowapodcast.com/orange-city-tulip-festival-jennie-droog
How bad was the tornado damage in Minden, Iowa? You have no idea. Mayor Kevin Zimmerman gives a heartbreaking update on how the local Sheriff's department shut down access to the city, their water treatment plant was completely destroyed, and almost all businesses are currently shut down.
Minden was hit extremely hard by the tornado's that hit the western part of the state. One life has been lost and three injured. While a single life lost is one too many, once you understand the full state of the damage, it's a miracle more people weren't injured.
Our sincerest condolences to the family of Nicholas Ring who tragically lost his life in the disaster.
https://iowapodcast.com/minden-iowa-tornado-mayor-kevin-zimmerman
Many of Iowa's farmers' markets open this weekend and exclusive we discussed what to expect with three of the state's largest. Taryn Kafer of The Dubuque Farmers' Market, Amelia Klatt of the Downtown Des Moines Farmers' Market, and Missy Carter of The Freight House Farmers Market in Davenport join the show to discuss why their market is the best. Combined, Des Moines, Dubuque, and Davenport represent more than 800 vendors and are attended by over 50,000 every weekend in the state of Iowa. And they each have their own bragging rights as well. Des Moines is the largest, Dubuque is the oldest in the state, and Davenport was voted #1 in the state.
Listen to this very special journey across three of Iowa's largest farmers markets. https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-farmers-markets
Lola's Fine Hot Sauce used to be an iconic Iowa brand that had achieved some impressive national success. But those days are over. Founder Taufeek Shah announces Lola's achieved what most consumer packaged goods (CPG) business owners only dream of: national distribution in Walmart. He discusses starting in an Iowa farmer's market, how COVID actually helped them grow, and teases 7 new products.
Lola's is now a national brand competiting with Tobasco, Frank's Red Hot and Cholula. Shah touches on why he was crazy enough to enter a crowded hot sauce market, their brand new manufacturing center in Florida, and discusses why, to his surprise, Lola's started flying off the shelves during the COVID-related shutdowns.
See the full show notes and photos here: https://iowapodcast.com/taufeek-shah-lolas-fine-hot-sauce
In a fascinating interview, the Director of the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT), Scott Marler explains why 2023 had more fatalities than 2022, and why the COVID-related shutdown had a bizarre impact on Iowans lead foots. He also shares how roads are being re-engineered to accommodate mistakes we make when driving, and how they're anticipating the future of self-driving cars.
376 Iowans lost their lives on Iowa roads last year, which is more than 2022 fatality rate of 338. Did you know you have a 1 in 366 chance of getting in a wreck this month? And in your lifetime, a 1 in 107 chance of getting killed in a car wreck? Marler's vision is to bring that number to 0, he discusses distracted driving, where most wrecks happen, and states the obvious: people are still not wearing seatbelts. (What the heck?)
https://iowapodcast.com/scott-marler-road-deaths
749,000 fish in Iowa waterways were killed when 265,000 gallons of liquid nitrogen fertilizer was accidentally dumped into the East Nishnabotna River near Red Oak. Dr. Michelle Soupir, a Professor at Iowa State University with expertise in Nonpoint Source Pollution, waterways and watershed explains the impact, and cautions on drinking water in some parts of the state.
On March 9th, a valve at NEW Co-op was accidentally left open causing the spill, which has now killed an estimated 40,000 fish in Missouri. While Des Moines Water Works can utilize specialized treatment for high levels of Nitrate and Ammonia, not every water treatment plant in the state has the necessary technology. Dr. Soupir says water treatment plants are continuously checking water quality, but cautions Iowans downstream to check their well water.
Listen to the discussion on treatment and how Iowa can prevent disasters like this in the future. https://iowapodcast.com/michelle-soupir-fertilizer-spill-new-coop-red-oak
Governor Reynold signed HF 2612 into law, impacting all nine Area Education Agencies (AEAs) in the state. Senators Lynn Evans, a Republican, and Sarah Trone Garriottt, a Democrat came in studio to discuss how this negatively or positively impacts Iowans, and why they disagree on aspects of this bill.
Republicans say this was designed to bring accountability, transparency, and consistency to AEAs, turning over AEA’s to local school districts. Democrats say it dismantles and fragments a working system meant to be adaptable, possibly allowing people to fall between the cracks. It’s a complicated issue, and they both explain their perspective.
A few notes:
First, Justin Brady’s focus on interviews like this is to be fair, give equal time to both, and not ask questions that may be considered unfair. At the end, he offers closing statement time as a backstop to make sure both voices were heard.
Second, you’ll notice we don’t address the increase in teacher pay in this interview, because both parties have already been clear on their support for an increase in teacher pay. We focused on the core areas of disagreement.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-aea-law-hf2612-lynn-evans-sarah-trone-garriott
Why are these famous people all coming to DMACC in Iowa? Time Magazine's “100 Most Influential People,” Dr. Alan Stern; National Geographic’s “Adventurer of the Year;” Maureen “Mo” Beck; National Geographic Explorer Dr. Niall McCann; Commander Susan Kil-rain; youngest person to pilot a NASA space shuttle mission; and Jonathan Frakes, Commander Ryker on StarTrek. Provost Dr. Anthony Paustian says how you can attend.
CI Week, which stands for Celebrate Innovation, happens annually at DMACC West and is always standing room only. The digital stream hits 65,000 live viewers every year. We dig into the event’s history, and discuss the overview of topics. For example, Susan Kilrain’s “GI Jane” experience where she demanded she complete the men’s requirements, and Dr. Alan Stern who was on the Titan Submersible’s last successful dive before it imploded exploring the Titanic wreckage.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/ci-week-anthony-paustian
How many times have you heard that installing solar panels on your roof will pay you back? Or perhaps you heard the energy companies will even pay you! That’s not the full story says Ryan Warren of QsTN—an Iowa energy strategist and solar expert. He breaks down all the confusion, and says why Iowa’s geography can generate similar solar energy to Arizona!
Warren has a PhD in mechanical engineering from Iowa State University and is a solar energy nerd. He explains why many solar energy claims are slick accounting and marketing tricks, how to know if solar panels will actually pay you back, how solar technology has changed, and why solar suddenly took off despite it being an old technology.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-solar-providers
Spring Break is here, but many Iowans will be staying within the state. According to AAA, nearly 25% of Iowans (22%) will take a Spring Break vacation. The result is local boutique experiences seeing an influx. “We’re going gangbusters,” says Pritesh Patel, Owner of Hotel Pommier in Indianola. He discusses a viral post, and why business is booming.
Before COVID, business leaders like Bill Gates suggested travel would likely never return—but the travel naysayers were wrong in a big way. The opposite turned out to be true, with travel booming. But that was before inflation, record credit card debt, and airline maintenance concerns. How do these factors impact local travel and what does the future hold for Iowa tourism?
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-spring-break
The past two weeks, Ankeny High School and Ankeny Centennial High School have been hosting a career and college day for their students. Justin Brady was invited to attend, representing The Iowa Podcast and we asked the students about their future aspirations. Make sure to go to visit our website to see the video versions of these interviews.
Generally, there is a pattern of empathy blended with a strong financial outlook when it comes to these interviews. Most students were focused on how their skills can help other people, adults and children. Others were motivated by clear paths to a safe financial future. Only a handful of students I spoke with were focused on artistic, performing, music, or creative fields.
See the full videos and show notes here (including a photo of time traveling Hall and Oates): https://iowapodcast.com/ankeny-career-day
I drank live bacteria on a podcast and lived to tell the tale. Not only was it delicious, but Jake Troja, founder of Kismet Kombucha explains why it’s actually good for me. Jokes aside, Troja’s journey into Kombucha, a naturally fermented beverage, started when he and his wife were looking for healthy alternatives.
What started as a hobby turned into a business during the pandemic. Today, Kismet is in Hy-Vee, Fareway, and many other stores. Kombucha has grown in popularity, in part, due to the zero-proof movement, and Gen Z’s aversion to alcohol—in fact, Kombucha is a popular ingredient in many “mock-tails” (or non-alcoholic cocktails.) As people search for healthier food and beverages, research shows quality Kombucha is full of natural probiotics, and great for gut health.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/kismet-kombucha-jake-troja
Chief Dana Wingert is in charge of Iowa's largest Police force. In the last few years he recalls riots, protests, the defund the Police movement, and removal of the Student Resource Officer (SRO) program at Des Moines Public Schools. With a rise in violence in the schools, is it time to bring officers back into the schools? Are his officers seeing the impact of anti-Police rhetoric?
Wingert discusses department accountability, his thoughts on recording Police, and how his officers are held accountable, specifically how does Des Moines and Iowa in general ensure we aren't hiring bad cops who have been fired for bad behavior. He also recalls a moment when a few school board members tried to have him fired.
Full show notes are here: https://iowapodcast.com/Chief-Dana-Wingert-Des-Moines-Police
Hawkeye basketball superstar, Caitlin Clark, was knocked to the ground when a fan rushed the court causing injury concerns. Thankfully Clark is fine, but student athletes 22 and under like Clark are more injury prone than before, says Dr. Brett McDonough of Delta Health. Shoulder and elbow surgeries have increased by 500%, and ACL surgeries over 400%. What’s going on?
McDonough has worked with Minnesota Vikings and Twins players, traveled with UFC for multiple events, has worked with NASCAR drivers, and with multiple Olympic Athletes. He says there are many reasons for student athletes becoming more injury prone. 3.5M kids under 14 are now facing sports-related injuries every year, and the majority are in practice. He explains what actions parents and coaches can take to reverse this trend quickly.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/sports-injuries-iowa-caitlin-clark
After closing their Clive location in July of 2021, Table 128 will officially re-open in downtown Des Moines in mid March. Facing numerous delays, the restaurant’s future was a mystery until now. In this exclusive interview, Executive Chef and owner, Lynn Pritchard explains what’s new, what remains unchanged, and tells the story on how restaurateurs like him pivoted to survive during the COVID pandemic.
Pritchard also tells how restaurants have changed over the last few years, and why local food does actually taste better. It’s not in your head! Many assume the “buy local” approach is a feel-good focus, but in reality, Pritchard is seeking locally-sourced ingredients due to the increased flavor they provide.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/table-128-des-moines
Newly elected Mayor of Des Moines, Connie Boesen has completed her first 30 days in office and she explains the feedback she’s heard, and how she plans on attracting businesses back to Des Moines. Boesen takes the role at a challenging time with nearly 1 million square feet in Des Moines empty, and businesses like Nationwide and Wells Fargo pulling staff out of downtown.
Boesen explains how difficult it is for local businesses to navigate permits and local regulations, and how the complexity of the process frustrates new development and business location into the city. She also touches on DART’s woes, and how it may be necessary to think outside the box and change how the entity operates.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/connie-boesen-mayor-des-moines
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Winter is so hot right now, at least if you're in Northwestern Iowa. Tomorrow, Iowans and folks from around the country will jump in a frozen lake, play human foosball, broomball, and fly 30-100ft massive kits. Kiley Zankwoski, the Director of Marketing and Events for The University of Okoboji Winter Games tells us what to expect and how to participate.
This unique event transforms cabin fever into a vibrant festival, drawing thousands to the frozen Great Lakes of Iowa for an eclectic mix of activities. Zankowski reveals how the games not only invigorate the local economy but also redefine Iowa as a year-round playground. Hear how a small-town event became a winter sensation, offering something for everyone, from thrill-seekers to families, and leaving a lasting impact on the community.
https://iowapodcast.com/okoboji-winter-games
Mike Berland worked with President Bill Clinton, Senator Hillary Clinton and Mayor Michael Bloomberg and he explains how the AP was able to call the Iowa Caucuses for Trump early. He also discussed why pollsters like himself rarely use polls to predict results for national elections.
Berland is a political powerhouse. He goes into detail on what the Iowa caucus results really show, and why Nikki Haley despite a 3rd place finish is the most notable candidate with momentum. At the end of the show, he gives listeners an inside look into Hillary Clinton’s Iowa Caucus loss to Barack Obama.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/why-did-AP-call-iowa-caucuses-early
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As blizzard conditions roll into Iowa, host Justin Brady started a Spaces event on X.com (fka as Twitter.) Iowans who joined were Roger Riley of Channel 13 reporting from Ames. Elias Johnson of Channel 13 reporting from Urbandale, along with Mario Rossi of Channel 5 from Des Moines, Nelson Bontrager from Bloomfield, and Nancy Mwirotsi from Des Moines.
The consensus across the state is still that travel is not advised, especially as the wind picks up later. Johnson noted this could cause visibility issues. If you do have to go out in the storm, he advises you fill your tank with gas, bring winter gear in case you're stranded, and be aware of your surroundings as you travel in case you have to call 911 to request help.
For a link to the original spaces audio go here: https://iowapodcast.com/blizzard
The Iowa Caucuses take place January 15th and Jeff Kaufmann, Chair of the Iowa Republican Party tells us what to expect, which candidates are favored, and why the one who skipped Iowa will be skipping the White House. He also explains why Iowa Democrats can still save the Iowa Caucuses, and what happened in 2012 when Romney was falsely announced as the winner.
Kaufmann also explains what party unity looks like between the MAGA and Freedom Caucus movements after a winner is chosen, and explains how Iowans shape the national conversation around the Presidency. He even has a theory that perhaps the DNC may have set up the Iowa Democrats for failure.
See the show notes: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-caucuses-jeff-kaufmann
The success rate for ending homelessness in Iowa can go from 5% to 80% but spending more money isn't it. After fighting homelessness for over 30 years, Andy Bales returns to Iowa from Los Angeles infamous skid row and he has a strong message for Iowans. Spending billions of dollars won't fix it.
In the 90s Bales founded Good Samaritan Urban Ministries. Homeless youth who went through the program are still successful and thriving nearly 30 years later. Today, Bales returns to Iowa after being CEO of Union Rescue Mission in Los Angeles and tells us exactly how to avoid the fate of skid row, but it's a tough pill to swallow and will require your hands and feat.
See the full show notes and get connect with Andy here: https://iowapodcast.com/homeless
Iowa has quite the past and tomorrow (December 28th) marks the anniversary of Iowa becoming the 29th state in the Union. Most Iowans don't know about Iowa's rich heritage and why, at least in part, we have the French to thank for our great state. Leo Landis, State Curator, State Historical Society of Iowa shares all the juicy details, both the good and bad.
Landis is also the Museum Curator of the State Historical Museum of Iowa and shares how Iowa was formed, what was in our region before statehood, and why Congress originally rejected Iowa because our borders were far too big. He also shares a surprising fact from President James K. Polk's journal. Iowa wasn't even mentioned. Turns out, we've been a fly-over state since the beginning.
See all the show notes and photos: https://iowapodcast.com/when-did-iowa-become-a-state
Iowans live in a leading agriculture state but do many of us truly understand the science of farming? Do we know what no-till is or why it's important? Do we know why soil quality is eroding? Jayson Ryner, founder ReEnvision Ag, and Iowan farmer, explains soil degradation and what his company invented to fix the problem.
Farmers are often faced with a delicate balance of producing, but also making long-term sustainable choices. Tillage is more efficient, but erodes soil. No-till is less efficient, but improves soil. Ryner's tech solves these issues with what he calls SpeedSpikes. His tech allows farmers to scale no-till operations and widen planting windows, without tilling the land. It's a huge breakthrough because it preserves the valuable biomass that decays into the soil, and it converts all Iowa farmland into a natural carbon capture tool.
Check out the full show summary and photos here: https://iowapodcast.com/top-soil-problems-what-is-no-till
One Iowa town is known for having the largest gardens in the state of Iowa, and just in time for Christmas and Hanukkah they have transformed their entire outdoor garden space into what they're calling a Winter Wonderscape. Ed Lyon, Director of Reiman Gardens talks about winter experience.
Reiman Gardens are the largest gardens in the state of Iowa with tens of thousands of plant varieties and flowers. They have a surprising amount of winter activities like weekly butterfly hatching, a huge model train, and indoor greenhouse gardens. Lyon discusses the Winter Wonderscape and how you and your family can walk through, fully immersing yourself in the experience.
See the photos and show notes at https://iowapodcast.com/winter-wonderscape
Guest host Greg Bailey interviews Brian Gumm, founder of Ross Street Roasting, a rural Iowa coffee tradition turned national brand. Gumm shares the company's origin, tracing its humble beginnings to the essence of its creation and the early days' customer reception. He delves into the roots, motivations, and initial challenges faced while establishing the specialty coffee roasting business. The conversation touches on the company's evolution from a local gem to a renowned national entity. Gumm's insights paint a picture of perseverance, community support, and the transformative journey of a small-town tradition into a widely embraced coffee brand.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/brian-gumm-ross-street-roasting
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Iowa’s largest mall has some surprising facts and figures. Did you know many retailers designate central Iowa as one of their top 5 retail locations by revenue? And why in a time malls across the country, why is one Iowa mall doing so well? We sit down with Randy Tennison, the head honcho of Jordan Creek Town Center which is 99% full, to ask him what they’re doing differently.
Tennison gives the breakdown of new stores, and why people are drawn to the mall—because they want to interact with merchandise, not stare at it behind a screen. He gives an outlook of employment challenges for the 2023 Holiday season, and explains why Jordan Creek is a travel destination for neighboring states. He also explains the Holiday activities unique to this massive Iowa mall mecca.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/jordan-creek-town-center-stores
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The biggest critics of The Honey Creek Resort at Lake Rathbun are its new owners. Beth and Terry Henderson had originally planned on working with the resort to host some events for their agriculture company, but quickly ran into a problem: the resort fell short of their expectations. So they bought it. Even though they took over in April, they’ve already been quickly renovating the property and have no plans to stop until they hit a 4 or 5 star experience.
For starters the property will be open year-round. They’ve added holiday programming, rebranded the restaurants, remodeled major parts of the property, and are adding a bourbon and wine bar. Cabin and room renovations are in process too. The Lake Rathbun area is stunning, but the couple believes The Honey Creek Resort hasn’t been the crown jewel of southeastern Iowa like it should be. They also announced a partnership with Atlantic Bottling Company that will add some Coke-themed attractions.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/honey-creek-resort-remodel-2024
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“I think skepticism is warranted.” says Joseph Nelson, CEO of A.I company Roboflow regarding President Biden’s new executive order focused on artificial intelligence (AI). Nelson was quick to point out that while the objective of Biden’s order appears to have good intentions, regulators should use caution or they may inadvertently stifle innovation in multiple sectors like healthcare or the environment.
While regulations may seem logical at first, especially in a time people fear AI, it’s unclear this executive order will accomplish its goal. For example, current laws already prevent much of what this law seeks to prevent, says Nelson. Other concerns are reporting AI data to the Federal Government and losing AI companies to other countries. While we should take AI safety seriously, regulators should exercise caution to not stifle innovation. We should “how do I wield this capability, not the capability exists in itself.”
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/Pros-cons-Bidens-AI-regulations
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The most beautiful and best Iowa Park may be found in your corner of the state claims Sally Ortgies, the “Iowa Park Lady.” Ortgies has visited all Iowa state parks and has seen every corner of Iowa and knows better than anyone the beauty it offers. She has recommendations in your part of the state.
It took Ortgies just over one year to complete her tour of all state parks but she says the experience was well worth it. In NE Iowa, she said Driftless Area National Wildlife Refuge stood out. In NW Iowa the ancient pink rock formations are worth visiting not to mention the rolling hills which “feel like a roller coaster.” In SE Iowa the river formations are incredible, and SW Iowa is home to her favorite state park. Listen to her explain why.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/best-iowa-parks
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The Hamas slaughter of innocent Israeli citizens and the Jewish people is enough evil for a lifetime, but pro-Hamas protests in Iowa have the Iowa Jewish population noticeably concerned, saddened and sick. As state and city leaders rally around our Jewish population, now’s the time to stand up, says Jarad Bernstein, Executive Director of The Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines.
Despite threats to kill Jewish people, Bernstein’s strength and determination are incredible to witness. He gives a very important history lesson on the Jewish people and the nation of Israel. He explains how Hamas’ goal is to kill, and how they use their own children as human shields. He also explains the lengths the Israeli Defense Force goes to ensure civilian life is protected.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/jarad
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You may have heard of The Villages of Van Buren, but what is it exactly? Is it a town? A county? An entertainment destination? Not quite. Emily Starnes, the executive director, explained the background of the area, and told the story of when Missouri threatened to invade Iowa over honey trees. (Iowa won)
The Villages of Van Buren is actually 11 small towns with a combined population of just over 7,000 in Van Buren county. Not only is the area focused on nature, with lots of trails and a 9000 acre forest, but it’s home to many artisans and has the oldest courthouse in continuous use, west of the Mississippi River.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/villages-of-van-buren-scenic-drive-festival
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This year marks the 30th anniversary of Anamosa, Iowa being named the Pumpkin Capital of our state. The town hosts Pumpkinfest every year, says executive director of the Anamosa Chamber, Blaire Lawton. They smash cars, toss pumpkins, carve pumpkins, smoke pumpkins, roll pumpkins, but get this: you can test your pumpkin agility skills using big construction equipment! (With supervision of course) That's crazy!
The Anamosa Pumpkinfest originally began as a tribute to Ryan Norlin after his passing. Norlin died young and his parents wanted to do something in his honor. Because he had a love for pumpkins, they started with a small pumpkin weighoff competition. But the event has substantially grown, getting recognized state-wide.
See the full show notes: https://iowapodcast.com/anamosa-pumpkinfest-blaire-lawton
For those not in the know, The Slaughterhouse in Des Moines, Iowa is a highly sophisticated and upgraded version of the haunted house. But the owner, Ian Miller has gone one step further opening a secret underground Haunt Speakeasy opening Halloween of this year. If that sounds fun, there’s a catch, to get in on opening day you’ll need a hidden key for access.
Gone are the days of cheap outfits, and volunteers who may have startled you, but certainly did not scare you. Miller says, The Slaughterhouse has 69 actors, and the entire experience is engineered to scare the crap out of you. Literally. It’s happened. But don’t worry they have people on site for cleanup.
Partnering with SlipKnot a few years ago, The Slaughterhouse has become a popular attraction, bringing tourists from around the entire country. But now Miller is taking it a step further with a hidden underground Haunt speakeasy.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/haunt-speakeasy-des-moines-iowa
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For the first time, fewer Iowans are using Instagram. According to a new report by Iowa company, Blue Compass Iowans are changing their social media habits. Drew Harden shares how Iowans use social media, why Facebook is regaining some steam, and why small businesses actually have an edge on big brands.
Harden and his team analyzed the impact of Elon’s Twitter takeover, Snapchat’s incredible growth, and we discussed if LinkedIn has any hope of recovering from its death spiral. We discuss how Iowans use social media and why they still rely on local businesses and one really easy hack for local businesses to get Google to find their web page and rank it highly.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/what-social-media-do-Iowans-use
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Human trafficking may seem like a distant problem, but it’s far closer in Iowa than you think. Iowa Secretary of State, Paul Pate explains trafficking today happens to kids still living at home, with parents having absolutely no idea. Trafficking can start on social media, and target children in safe suburbs.
Sound of Freedom has been quite the popular film with a powerful message, but most of us feel powerless to help. What are the signs? How do we detect it? What can be done? What groups are impacted and where does it happen? Secretary Pate explains how we can turn the trafficking tables by seeing the signs, and reporting scenarios quickly.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/how-to-identify-human-trafficking-iowa-secretary-of-state-paul-pate
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What the heck is happening in Bondurant? From 2010 to 2020 they have nearly doubled their population size at a growth rate of 91%, making them the 2nd fastest growing city in the state, and with what would normally be growing pains taxes actually fell! Mayor Doug Elrod explains why young people are moving in, and the new recreation activities they’re planning for.
Mayor Elrod also discusses why Amazon moved into town and the surprisingly positive impact that move had on the community. When it comes to entertainment, he explains that because residents have been vocal about their love for the outdoors, they have some exciting things planned for the future to maintain the small town's outdoorsy feel. Attractions include a splash pad and amphitheater as reported by The Des Moines Register, but also outdoor water activities like paddle boarding and kayaking.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/bondurant-iowa-growth-park
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It's no secret, Iowa Universities and Colleges took a beating the last few years, and with the student debt crisis taking center stage, how is enrollment? Pete Moris, Director of University Relations at The University of Northern Iowa explains the outlook, discusses their mental health efforts, and tells parents (and students) what to expect and how to prepare.
We also discuss if the zero-alcohol moment has come to college campuses, and the role higher education plays in preparing students with time management, healthy habits, and the future AI-infused workforce. Moris also discusses why the college experience as a whole is the antidote for the isolation problem sweeping the country.
Full show notes: https://iowapodcast.com/university-of-northern-iowa-pete-moris
Audio Edit Note: I have seasonal allergies which led to throat clearing and sniffling issues. The microphone mute function apparently did not work during recording. This has been edited and removed. My apologies for not catching it sooner.
Some people in Iowa are already chomping at the bit for Autumn, and with the spooky holiday season that quickly follows. Iowa has a rich history, and thanks to one of the state’s natives, Lauren Riensche, Iowans can experience Cedar Falls’ creepy true stories. Riensche is the owner and host of Cedar Falls Ghost Tour which returns this October.
This will be Cedar Falls Ghost Tour’s third year of chilling the spines of its guests. In this episode, Lauren will give you a taste of the fantastic, true stories you’d hear while walking through Cedar Falls. Learn about the banker who seems to have never really retired even after his body was buried.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/lauren-riensche-cedar-falls-ghost-tour
The arts in education have been hotly debated for decades, always under threat of being cut. But today administrators are finding it much more difficult as data proves the positive impact an arts education has on child development. Leslie Nolte, head of school for The Iowa Conservatory in Iowa City gives us her thoughts on the new school year.
While it’s true arts programs increase engagement and attendance at schools, the benefits go far beyond what may be considered a fun school activity. In reality, they prepare students for 21st century skills, help them with problem solving, and allow them to think creatively. With the proliferation of AI in the workplace, human empathy and creativity will be even more in demand.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/leslie-nolte-iowa-conservatory
Upon graduation or entering the workforce, previous generations may have wanted to move to the big city, seeking excitement and adventure. But Iowa students today are built different. Seeing their parents go through financial trouble, and coming through the response to COVID, they're focused on stability, mortgage payments, and the low cost of living Iowa's known for.
When it comes to picking a career path and place to live, Mountains and Oceans aren't appealing to Travis Mitchell (Pella, IA) attending Central College, Olivia Cramer, (Lawton, MI) attending William Penn University, Andrew Jesus (Bellevue, NE) attending Iowa State University and Dashae Lee (Clive, IA) currently at DMACC. And they aren't alone—most of their friends have similar concerns and talk openly about debt and finances.
See the full show notes at: https://iowapodcast.com/leadership-iowa-students
When companies sent their people home to work remotely during the pandemic, many predicted the end of the modern office. Others predicted the office would make a comeback. But is it possible both were wrong? Geoff Wood, the founder and owner of Gravitate Coworking, Iowa’s largest coworking space, discusses why many Iowa’s have opted to choose neither. Is the future of work coworking?
Wood is presently celebrating Gravitate’s 10 year birthday. Over that 10 years he’s seen the ebbs and flows of remote and hybrid work. He’s seen entrepreneurs, corporate workers, authors, drop-ins from others states, non-profits, and business groups from other countries stop by to understand coworking in Iowa. He explains where we’re going, and why rural coworking might catch on in the future.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/gravitate-geoff-wood-coworking-iowa
On Wednesday, July 26th an Intelligence Official confirmed the US Government is in possession of an alien space craft and non-human "biologics." So, host Justin Brady hit the streets to ask Iowans "do you believe aliens exist?" Their responses surprised us.
It turns out, even before the intelligence report, most Iowans do believe intelligent life exists beyond our planet. But interestingly, the official report didn't change anyone minds. In one case, a couple believed it to be a distraction, and one man said he has believed aliens exist for some time, but after the official report, he finds himself doubting their existence more than before.
What's your opinion? Do they exist? Are we being lied to? Send us your thoughts at howdy@iowapodcast.com or DM us on Twitter/X at @IowaPod.
Check the full show notes at https://iowapodcast.com/aliens
There may be no more polarizing issue in 2023 than abortion and education. With party setbacks has the Iowa Democratic party lost its way and become out of touch with Democrat voters? Rita Hart, chair of the Iowa Democratic Party reacts to new Republican-led abortion and education laws, and condemns vitriol she sees coming from her own party. Is it time for a new era of healing?
The Iowa Podcast is doing a political roundup, and asking party leaders what their priorities are for 2023 and beyond. It’s no surprise Iowa Democrats have not been successful with their agenda in 2022-2023. Hart explains her concerns that the Republican agenda on education and abortion are too extreme, but is asked about if her parties, considered to be extreme as well, are partially to blame.
(Governor Reynolds communications team has not agreed to come on the show. An invitation has been extended to Iowa Republican Party Chair Jeff Kaufman instead. We will update this note when we hear back.)
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/rita-hart-iowa-democrats
Agri-tourism was a $69.24 billion industry in 2019, and is projected to reach $117.37 billion by 2027. In 2017, 28,575 farms offered agri-tourism, generating $949 million in sales! Kara Grupp, operator of Three Pines Farm near Cedar Falls explains why people are visiting Iowa farms for “glamping” and to better understand where their food comes from.
Grupp explains how agriculture has changed in Iowa, and what led her from working with DNA at Iowa State to helping run her Iowa family farm to help start an agri-tourism business. She also explains how a little-known Iowa law helped encourage more agri-tourism in Iowa.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/glamping-in-iowa-three-pines-farm
Iowa’s largest lake is Lake Red Rock. It’s 10 minutes from Pella and 15 minutes from Knoxville. Park Ranger, Tracy Spry, offers insight into the lake, free kid packs, and super-simple water safety tactics. She also tells us how you can tour the inside of the dam and why tours changed after 9-11.
Spry also discusses the difference between CO2 auto-inflating life jackets and foam life jackets, Lake Red Rock’s water safety mascot, a 100ft tower you can climb, and free science, bird, geocaching, tracking, and bug packs for kids. You might also be surprised to know COVID actually created more first time campers.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/kids-activities-lake-redrock-iowa
AI in healthcare can dramatically bring the cost of healthcare down, but only if Congress is cautious about regulating AI. Iowa tech founder and retina surgeon Michael Abramoff, MD, PhD of Digital Diagnostics out of Iowa City has developed an “AI Doctor” that can diagnose diabetic retinopathy faster, and more accurately than a trained physician. He explains the future of AI in healthcare, how Iowa innovation is beating Silicon Valley, and why regulations must be balanced.
Abramoff has testified and consulted with Congress on the use of AI in medicine and he’s authored numerous papers on the impact AI will have on not just the entire health system, but for each individual. His AI doctor can diagnose disease better than a physician, and the operator hardly needs any training at all. In fact, Digital Diagnostics’ device, Luminetics Core, is already being installed into grocery stores. Any physician can write a prescription and any patient can do their own evaluation.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/michael-abramoff-digital-diagnostics-ai-healthcare-regulation
You probably heard all about Juneteenth, but do you know what it is? Do you know why it’s important? Many people don’t actually know the history. LaNisha Cassell, executive director of The African American Museum of Iowa explains the history, importance, and why owning slaves in the USA didn’t end with the Emancipation Proclamation.
Iowa has rich African American history, but when most people think of Civil Rights and African American heritage they think of national figures like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., not Iowans. Cassell gives a few short examples of Iowa Civil Rights leaders, and explains what takes places on Juneteenth including a partnership with the Des Moines Metro Opera.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/lanisha-cassell-african-american-museum-of-iowa
The Apple Vision Pro was just announced and it’s already the center of the conversation and quite a polarizing device. Juan Pablo Hourcade, Ph.D, Professor and Director of Graduate Studies for the Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Informatics at The University of Iowa explains what the device does and gives a few use cases for manufacturing and perhaps even agriculture.
The biggest challenge he says, is for Apple to overcome the “social acceptance” barrier. Will people actually wear this pair of ski goggles on their face that often? And is the value of using it enough to make people shell out $3500? He’s not so sure.
See the full show notes at https://iowapodcast.com/juan-pablo-hourcade-apple-vision-pro
Iowa has secrets. Some are hidden in plain sight like a few mysterious concrete structures in a popular kids area at the Iowa State Fair. Megan Bannister, author and editor of Olio in Iowa is a walking encyclopedia of Iowa’s craziest stories.
The author of Iowa Supper Clubs and her second book, Secret Iowa has fascinating stories collected all over the state. She explains why Audubon’s “Albert the bull” can beat up New York City’s Wall Street bull, why Sac City should consider making bridges out of popcorn balls, and how the world’s largest wooden nickel was made in protest to speed limits.
See the full show notes at https://iowapodcast.com/famous-travel-destinations-in-iowa-megan-bannister
Scandinavian Days happen every year in Story City and to celebrate Scandinavian immigrants culture and traditions. Shanon McKinley, Executive Director of the Story City Greater Chamber Connection explains the history of this annual tradition, how it’s evolved through the years and why Scandinavians come to this fun event!
Established 1965, May 17th on Norwegian Constitution day, the celebration was renamed Scandinavian Days in 1967. It was also switched to the first part of June for warmer weather. The event features live music, a beer garden, a live musical, a parade and a lot more. We briefly touch on Story City’s growing manufacturing sector.
See the full show notes at https://iowapodcast.com/scandinavian-days-shanon-mcinley
The AI economy is coming. Jessi McQuerry with the Association of Business and Industry explains how Business Horizons has pivoted to prepare students for design thinking and AI-ready jobs. The truth is, Iowa students are have incredible ideas, but execution and design thinking practices are needed to help them bring their ideas to life, start a business, or get a great career.
Today’s students are growing up on popular shows like Shark Tank. They’re excited at the idea of starting their own business or working at a company that is impacting our world. But there’s a huge educational gap between idea, pitch, and actually growing a company. Business Horizons is filling that gap this July on the Drake University Campus.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/business-horizons-iowa
Iowa Cubs General Manager Sam Bernabe is celebrating 40 years with the Iowa Cubs this year in a big way. Principal Park will soon begin a $65 Million renovation, with the goal of becoming an entertainment district akin to Gallagher Way at Fenway Park or Ballpark Village at Busch Stadium. Will downtown Des Moines soon connect to a “Cubbie Village?"
The city's goal is to extend Principal Park amenities into an entertainment district surrounding the park that will better connect Downtown. The concept is a district that can be used 365 days potentially including downtown movie nights, playgrounds, a music venue, and more near-park entertainment.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/sam-bernabe-principal-park-renovations-iowa-cubs
People travel from the entire globe to ride RAGBRAI and this week a new documentary premiers in Iowa revealing the stories, people and places that make up this ride. The documentary is titled Shift. Courtney Crowder and Kelsey Kremer of The Des Moines Register explain a side of RAGBRAI you probably didn't know existed.
They discuss the impact the ride has on Iowa towns, who the average rider is (it's not a super athlete), how much footage they had to sift through, history of the ride, how towns actually campaign to get RAGBRAI to come through their town and... do you have to dip your bike wheel in both rivers to official "complete" the ride?
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/shift-documentary-ragbrai-crowder-kremer
BuzzFeed is gone. Fox News fired Tucker Carlson. CNN fired Don Lemon. The Des Moines Register lost 70% of its subscribers. Two papers close every week in the USA. As journalism faces a crisis, why did Axios just hit one million subscribers? I ask Iowa journalist Jason Clayworth.
Axios is growing rapidly by focusing on local content and local stories. Clayworth answers tough questions about the state of media like: is media bias to blame? Did polarization go to far? Do people crave local voices? How does he handle his own bias?
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/jason-clayworth-axios/
What bike should you get for Iowa trails? What tires? What frame? Should you get an e-bike? How do you prevent a flat? Where are the famous bike hangouts? Why do people from out of state come to Iowa for RAGBRAI? Iowa bike icon Dan Koenig of Ichi Bike packs everything you need to know about Iowa biking into this 30 min interview.
For the uninitiated, biking in Iowa can be a bit intimidating. Most people know we have trails, and know biking is a great low impact activity and workout, but most people don't know where to start. If that's you, and you're interested in biking this summer, this is your starting point.
Full show details are at https://iowapodcast.com/dan-koenig-iowa-bike-trails-shop
The Big Show is the largest, most influential agriculture radio show in not just Iowa but the entire midwest, but late last year, host Andy Peterson simply disappeared. Today he explains the full backstory, shares his concerns about mass media, and explains the future of agriculture in Iowa.
The Big Show brings in an enormous chunk of revenue for WHO Radio and iHeart Radio, and for seven years, Peterson was a key component of that success. Everyone in the agriculture space in the state knows him, and even after his departure, he hasn't stopped hosting events in partnership with many of the associations that keep our state's agriculture scene running.
Peterson explains what he's up to, why he is no longer with WHO Radio and The Big Show and hints at what's next.
Downtown Des Moines belongs to all Iowans. It serves as a critical meeting point for State Wrestling, Girls and Boys Basketball. But as large employers pull out, are we heading back to the dark days of the eye-sore 80s? Josh Mandelbaum has thoughts. He also shares one of his biggest regrets as a City Councilman.
Mandelbaum discusses his plans for eliminating traffic fatalities, if Police should be back in schools, making the city more walkable, and ideas to make housing more affordable. He also defends the Energy and Water Benchmarking Ordinance that requires 25k buildings to submit energy and water consumption to the city.
Read the full show notes at: https://iowapodcast.com/josh-mandelbaum-des-moines-mayor-candidate
Everyone should pay their taxes and abide by the law, but Drew Pells, co-owner of JT Pells Accounting Services says there's no need to tip! Tipping is for your server, not Uncle Sam. It's important to know this episode is informational and not tax advice for you specifically. Your situation is unique, so make sure to ask your tax professional or lawyer about anything discussed.
During the COVID response, the USA and Iowa saw a record number of small business formed. And with a small business come some tax advantages many previous W2 employees aren't aware of. Did you know if your kids work at your business, or you office at home and pay yourself rent there are some significant tax savings you might not be aware of?
This episode is packed with strategies that are quite aggressive, but absolutely fascinating nonetheless. See the full show notes at https://iowapodcast.com/filing-Iowa-taxes-day-drew-pells
Connie Boesen is running for Mayor of Iowa's capital city and largest city by population, Des Moines. Why? Because she wants Des Moines open for business.
Boesen formerly served on the Des Moines Public School board and currently serves on the Des Moines city council. Iowa State Fair goers may know her as the apple lady behind Applishus. She explains her desire is to focus on economic development in both downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. To do that she wants to replicate the success of InvestDSM and recruit new businesses to come into Des Moines.
She also addresses challenges in the schools, absence rates, addressing homelessness, improving public safety by addressing core problems, and how intrusive the city should be on mandating garages and tiny houses.
Boesen will be running against Mayor Frank Cownie, who has been serving Des Moines since 2003. Check out the full show notes at https://iowapodcast.com/connie-boesen-des-moines-mayor
The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and subsequent takeover by Federal regulators sparked concern in the banking industry causing the DOW to lose 500 points early Wednesday. Jim Plagge, the CEO of Bank Iowa explains what happened, why it happened, and what impact this will have on Iowans.
Plagge explains why record deposits in 2021 meant banks across the country were flush with cash. Why SVB and other banks invested that cash into treasury bonds and mortgage-backed securities, and how rate increases and large cash withdrawals led to a perfect storm.
Plagge also explains FDIC Insurance caps, how to protect yourself, steps you can take if you have more than 250k, and why Iowa may be insulated from banking challenges. He also has a great argument for why you should use local community banks.
Learn more at https://iowapodcast.com/bank-iowa-jim-plagge-svb
Scott Marler, Director of the Iowa DOT explains how Iowa is prepared for train derailments, how common this kind of incident is, and why construction zones block off lanes for "no f***ing reason" to quote an Iowa DOT Construction sign that was manipulated by an unknown motorist.
Marler also discusses the federal infrastructure package as it relates to Iowa, the safety of Iowa's bridges, why higher EV registration is actually a wash in overall taxes, what is the deal with I-80 near Iowa city, and he introduces new technology that will allow road workers to communicate with your car and navigation apps.
Check out the full show notes at: https://iowapodcast.com/scott-marler-iowa-dot-train-derailment
In under 2 years, Blk & Bold Specialty Beverages co-founder Pernell Cezar already achieved national distribution in Target. This month Iowa-based Blk & Bold turns 5 and we wanted to air this previously recorded interview to celebrate!
Cezar explains what "specialty coffee" is and how it differs. It turns out, specialty coffee is a “fact-based” term, meaning it’s not marketing fluff. Like wine, it has a fact-based point system.
Cezar began his career in Target retail merchandising, helping manage inventory across their supply chain. In that role, he made buying decisions and negotiated with packaged goods companies. He knew this industry quite well before starting his coffee journey.
Learn more at https://iowapodcast.com/pernell-cezar-blk-and-bold
Blk & Bold turns 5 this month. This episode was previously recorded 3/11/2020 when they were 2 years old.
When thinking of Iowa Art, most people think of American Gothic and that's where the conversation ends. But Jeff Fleming, of The Des Moines Art Center, explains why Iowa is art savvy, and why smart business leaders and civic leaders use art as a secret weapon to grow local economies and development.
The Des Moines Art Center is 75 years old and therefore they're celebrating 75 years of Iowa art. (Actually, more like 100 years.) The list of Iowa artists is so large they had to use an entire gallery to hold all of it. We also discuss why the arts are usually first to get in periods of economic uncertainty, and why that may be one of the worst economic decisions you can make.
Also, do you know where all the Downtown Des Moines Sculpture Park Art was stored before it was installed between Grand and Locst? Hint: it was in someone's yard!
See the show notes here: https://iowapodcast.com/75-years-of-iowa-art-center-jeff-fleming
40,000 people have been confirmed dead at this point and Dave Wilson, who has lived in Turkey for 30 years, says there's no way the true devastation can be communicated. The destruction in the Southeast corner of the country has led to 400 orphans thus far and in many cases, entire families were lost in an instant. A neighborhood of a colleague had 9 out of 10 apartment buildings completely leveled. Each building had about 70 occupants.
Wilson is the founder of TACO. The organization is active in Turkey helping people when they need it most, getting them shelter, food, clothing, and resources. They've established trustworthy channels dating back decades. But even his team is feeling the pressure, including one of his team members who is Ukrainian and is still reeling from Russian aggression.
Wilson explains Turkish culture, and history, and why he has been kicked out of the country multiple times, beaten and put in prison. As his team operates in Turkey, he currently resides in Germany hoping the government allows him back in the country.
Read the full show notes and donate at https://iowapodcast.com/turkey
How many startups do you think are launching in Iowa? Would you have guessed Kaylee Williams, Investment Director of the InnoVenture Iowa Fund has spoken to 60 in the last 3 months? And that represents a tiny percentage! What on earth is going on? She breaks it all down.
Williams explains why startups are drawn to Iowa from bigger cities like LA, and why Iowa is seeing major startup growth. She explores the state of AI and ChatGPT and how that will impact Iowa. Plus she tells all of the success stories she sees like an Iowa company collecting energy from ocean waves, a small surgical light that responds to voice commands, and more crazy stuff. It's all happening in Iowa!
See the full show notes at: https://iowapodcast.com/kaylee-williams-innoventure-iowa
Emily Steele is the founder of Hummingbirds based in Iowa. She shares tactical ideas and strategies your small business can utilize to grow your following, and grow your business today.
Hummingbirds just raised one million dollars to expand a unique model of digital marketing. Her model connects small business marketing goals, to loyal users on social media who use the product and love it. This empowered word-of-mouth leads to more authentic online conversations that drive revenue to small businesses that use the platform.
Online advertising only gets a click-through rate of 0.5% or lower. No one likes ads, but consumers do like authentic word-of-mouth conversations around new products and services. That's what Hummingbirds is all about.
Read the full show notes at: https://iowapodcast.com/emily-steele-hummingbirds
Kim Reynolds has signed a new school choice bill into law but what does it actually mean? Democrat Senator Nate Boulton and Republican Senator Brad Zaun explain what the new school choice bill means for Iowans. They have disagreements on this bill, of course, but they have a shared vision of helping children.
There are quite a few myths about the bill they debunk, and there are some areas of agreement too. Can a private school educator really buy a convertible, are there really "backpacks of cash" that will go home to parents? Is there any accountability for private schools, and can they discriminate, or does federal and civil discrimination law still factor in? Are the reporting standards fair for public and private schools? We cover it all.
In an age of political divisiveness and anger, they demonstrate how politicians on opposing sides can disagree strongly, but do so with respect for the other.
Read the full show notes here: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-school-choice
FYI: Apologies about the studio audio quality. There was a slight technical difficulty prior to recording and the track will be fixed Friday.
DISCLAIMER: Justin Brady's spouse works for Des Moines Public Schools.
News broke today of a targeted shooting at Starts Right Here, an organization that helps kids that have challenging backgrounds. Two children have died and Will Keeps was injured in the shooting. As of writing this, he is in surgery. He was on another show of mine a few years back and I wanted to air this interview on The Iowa Podcast.
Will is an incredible person and has gone through some incredible adversity. His heart for our kids is incredible. Instead of a show notes link, here is the official donation link for Starts Right Here.
From the Starts Right Here website: "Starts Right Here (SRH) is a program designed to serve youth in a supportive, empowering environment. All young people deserve a chance to rise above the circumstances they were born into and to reach their mental, emotional, physical, and economic potential."
Please donate: https://startsrighthere.org
Megan McKay, the founder, and CEO of Peace Tree Brewery started the company to help the town of Knoxville. Today the company is one of the largest breweries in Iowa, and today they announce a brand new beer with a fun Iowa theme.
McKay also discussed the bizarre nature of Iowa beer and liquor laws. Most Iowa beer and booze snobs are well aware of the drastic price decrease when you cross the Minnesota border, but most aren't familiar with why there's such a discrepancy. The reason is how Iowa law is written and a few leftover prohibition-era laws. The end result is added complexity for Iowa alcohol producers and added cost for consumers.
Listen to the interview with Megan McKay. The full show notes are available here: https://iowapodcast.com/99pils-megan-mckay-peace-tree
Manufacturers are simplifying supply chains and bringing manufacturing to the USA. Leisa Fox has founded MakeDSM to ensure Iowa capitalizes on this big opportunity.
Apple made huge news by announcing their drawdown of manufacturing in China, but their move is only the most visible sign of a global manufacturing trend ongoing for years.
In this interview, we dig into what increased manufacturing means for Iowa, why we're strategically positioned to take advantage of the new USA-based manufacturing boom, and what Iowa business owners can do to prepare for the future. We also break down the economic value to Iowans.
Due to rapidly changing cannabis laws in Iowa, it can be difficult to keep up with the state of medical marijuana in Iowa. Lucas Nelson, Group President of Bud & Mary's, an Iowa-based cannabis company, explains everything you need to know and how to get your own medical marijuana card.
Many aren't aware the previous THC cap on medical products was removed in 2020. This means physicians can determine the strength of cannabis for their patients, not government officials. The smokeable "flower" or "bud" still can't be sold in the state of Iowa, but Nelson said they are working on legalization for that form.
Bud & Mary's is growing the same strains you would find in Colorado, Michigan, and other states. In fact, Bud & Mary's is the creator of the #1-selling vape brand in Colorado. Currently, the company produces vape and sugar wax products to be inhaled, oil and tablets to be consumed orally, and cream you can apply topically. These forms have various levels of THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol) without THC.
Currently, marijuana or cannabis isn't legal for recreational use in the state of Iowa, only for medical purposes with physician approval. If you are interested in getting a medical marijuana card in Iowa, we've outlined the full step-by-step process and educational links on the show notes page.
Show Notes: https://iowapodcast.com/medical-marijuana-in-Iowa-lucas-nelson-bud-and-marys
It seems like we read about bizarre uses for Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) every day, but what practical uses do we see in the field? Also, will A.I. on the farm help or replace the farmer entirely? Colin Hurd, CEO of Mach, is creating AI technology already making its way into Iowa farms and explains the future of farming.
The company has roots in AI tech for the US Army, creating AI utility vehicles that would drive around the perimeter of a base to check for hazards autonomously. The use-case for the farm is apparent. Hurd sees farmers of the future being able to run their equipment 24 hours, even at night. He also sees farming becoming much safer in the future. Farmers will have full control of their machinery but at a safe distance. The future farm equipment will also be able to monitor areas and shut down in the event of danger. It's an increase in control but a decrease in physical contact.
Hurd also answers the big question: will we no longer need farmers as bots replace them?
Read the full show notes at https://iowapodcast.com/colin-hurd-ai-farming-mach
The town has less than 1000 people but has heavily invested in infrastructure that is already starting to attract remote and tech workers. Stanton, Iowa completed a robust fiber optic network to every home back in 2017 and now that remote work has global adoption, families are moving in says Kevin Cabbage, CEO of Farmers Mutual Telephone Company (FMTC). He also discusses their huge 3D Printer that prints livable homes and their new tech park.
As large corporations stop requiring people to work in the office, workers are finally allowed to work from anywhere. Not everyone likes big cities with their noise, pollution, and crime. Many want to connect to nature in a smaller community with low crime and low-cost housing. Cabbage also explains its downtown overhaul, and how their investments have paid off so far: Stanton's housing options can't grow fast enough and its daycare facilities can't keep up with growing families.
Check out the full show notes at: https://iowapodcast.com/fast-internet-in-iowa-kevin-cabbage-fmtc-stanton-iowa/
Iowa's largest airport, the Des Moines International Airport (DSM) has been hinting at changes for years, but those changes are finally taking effect. Kevin Foley, Executive Director explains what those changes are, outlines updated plans, and finally puts to rest jokes about the airport's name. He also tells why his wife was flagged by security for something in her bag!
DSM used to be mildly irritating. Iowans would drive to Omaha, Minneapolis, or Kansas City for cheaper fairs and more direct flights. But things have changed. More airlines do business in Iowa, and we have more direct flights to major cities than ever before. In fact, the airport has become such a hot commodity it has begun its new expansion plans. Frequent flyers will have noticed a completely new entrance and some large structures being built near Fluer. What is that stuff?
Foley also explains his updated recommendations for how early we should arrive. We can finally kiss the ridiculous three-hour bye-bye!
Read the full show notes at https://iowapodcast.com/kevin-foley-des-moines-iowa-airport-dsm
After 50 years, the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee has recommended Iowa lose its first-in-the-nation status. But not only that, Iowa won't be in the first 5 early states at all. Laura Belin, Editor and Publisher of Bleeding Heartland, Iowa's progressive news source, explains the reasons for this historic and tragic shift.
Belin says a few factors may be at play in this decision. President Joe Biden didn't do well in Iowa. He finished 5th in 2008 and 4th in 2020. He finished 5th in New Hampshire which has also had its first primary status challenged. Also, Iowa is no longer the swing state it used to be. Did Democrats' poor performance in Iowa during the 2022 midterms play a factor too? Belin says it's certainly likely.
Belin explains why prominent Iowa Democrats have said they will still move forward with first-in-the-nation causes, and why the Democrat National Committee might punish candidates for coming to Iowa. She explains how Democrats are dealing with their loss of ground in rural areas, and explains how Iowans are extremely good at asking well-researched questions, while the national press has historically struggled.
And did the technical errors of 2020 play a role? Can the caucuses be saved by the official vote in January? She has thoughts.
See the full show notes at https://iowapodcast.com/laura-belin-bleeding-heartland
It made statewide news, and politicians, including former Congresswoman Cindy Axne, echoed the story: Iowa workers lose about $900 million annually to overtime payment violations, minimum wage law violations, and other forms. That's a big number, but how accurate is it? Sean Finn the policy analyst with Common Good Iowa who was initially cited in the Des Moines Register report, sat down for a deep dive interview and explained what you can do if your employer has withheld pay you're owed.
Iowa Workforce Development has received reports and has collected $250,000 for Iowa Workers, and Federal agencies have collected north of two million. So where did the $900 Million number come from? Finn gets into the data and gives a few examples. He also shares next steps if you believe you've been a victim of wage theft in Iowa. You can view that information on the show notes page.
See the full show notes at https://iowapodcast.com/sean-finn
You see them holding cardboard signs on your commute to work, but have you ever wondered how Iowa's homeless population ended up there? There are many opinions on the matter ranging from "they deserve it" to "anyone can be homeless," but neither of these beliefs are entirely accurate. In fact, the issue is a bit more complex than most people realize. Tony Timm is the Chief Executive Officer of The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa, and prior CEO of Central Iowa Shelter and Services. He also explains how the pandemic response hurt our kids, and what Iowans can do to help.
Timm explains the core problems facing Iowa's homeless population but also why our children are also at risk, especially right now. Thankfully, Timm does a great job explaining specific ways you can help Iowa kids, no matter your financial or time flexibility. He also explains if you should or shouldn't give someone on the street corner money.
Find the show notes and volunteer opportunities here: https://iowapodcast.com/tony-timm
A University should change with the job market and set the students up for success with life's ebbs and flows. That is precisely the challenge Dr. Rachelle Keck see. Keck made history by becoming the first female president of Grand View University. Facing declining enrollment numbers nationally and cut budgets, she opens up about how to address new challenges and how the University has evolved.
She also discusses the silver lining to the COVID-19 Pandemic and how it pushed the University to make significant technology changes, and how the University is helping students catch up after the pandemic put their education on pause.
See the full show notes at https://iowapodcast.com/dr-rachelle-keck
Why does Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft own 600 acres of Iowa farmland? As an agricultural state that takes a lot of pride in our state's farmland, it may seem suspicious, says Peter Jaques, formerly of Farmland Finder, but there are a few good reasons. Should Iowans take farmland more seriously?
There are a few conspiracy theories as to why Gates is buying so much farmland. Some believe he is trying to control and manipulate the United States' food sources. Others say he is trying to manipulate the food market. There are also theories he is trying to move the United States away from beef towards plant-based diets.
Any dog lover has probably heard the term puppy mill, but what exactly does that mean? Cathy Erickson, the director of the Iowa Pet Expo walks us through the definition. A puppy mill is an establishment that breeds puppies for sale, typically on an intensive basis and in conditions regarded as inhumane. Cages stacked on top of each other, with no air conditioning or heat, just dogs made to sell. Iowa is the number one state in the country at prosecuting puppy mills but also sits pretty high up on the amount of puppy mills in the state. Why? Legislation.
There is massive pushback from the agricultural community, a fear that livestock are going to be held to the same standard as companion animals. For any animal lover, it is well known livestock like hogs and cattle are comfortable in outdoor conditions not suitable for domesticated animals like dogs and cats. But big agriculture companies continue to push back against legislation they believe is written in such a way that could be later applied to livestock. Erickson says it’s unclear why such concern exists, but the result is a lack of clarity and enforcement that would crack down on puppy mills. That doesn’t mean puppy mills can get away with unethical practices however.
The CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices voted unanimously to add the COVID vax to childhood vaccine schedules. But what does that mean, are children and risk, and is there really a myocarditis link?
Dr. Jon Van Der Veer has made the decision to vaccinate against COVID-19 for his family and children despite them being in a very low-risk category. For example, during the height of the pandemic, more children died from pneumonia than COVID.
Other topics include the use of fabric masks, trust in medical institutions, and inaccurate claims from the CDC and pharmaceutical companies on vaccines stopping transmission.
https://iowapodcast.com/jon-van-der-veer
One story, and corresponding Tweet, started a firestorm in Iowa: “The state of Iowa is planning to dramatically scale back the routine inspection of restaurants and other food-service establishments by making only one onsite inspection every five years." But is that accurate? "No, that is not accurate," says Jessica Dunker, CEO of The Iowa Restaurant Association.
Dunker debunks the wild story saying, "it's the biggest non-story, story we've had in a while." She presents the data explaining why restaurants are far safer than you probably think. For example, did you know every restaurant in the state has a certified food protection manager on staff? Most restaurants actually have one per shift. Surprising, right?
The incorrect article came with its share of finger-pointing and outrage, but it was wrong. And it couldn't have been published at a worse time as restaurants across Iowa struggle to get back on their feet post-pandemic and are now facing rising costs of operation.
Can we help? Yes. And it starts with a plate of french fries... pass the ketchup.
See the show notes and safety category breakdowns here: https://iowapodcast.com/jessica-dunker-no-iowa-cut-back-on-restaurant-inspections
From Chicago to Ankeny, the school systems are a lot more similar than what you might expect. Dr. Erick Pruitt is in his second year and explains what they have in common and answers questions on school choice, recovering enrollment, and the recent NEA poll that showed 90% of teachers want to quit.
Joining a school district in the aftermath of COVID-19 is no easy task. But Pruitt says the district is bouncing back. Enrollment rates were down last year, but they are already seeing an increase at a rate of around 3%. Before the pandemic, Ankeny was accustomed to around a 7% enrollment rate, so the district still gaining its stride back after such a trying time.
Learn more at: https://iowapodcast.com/erick-pruitt
Taste testing cookies as a career is a dream job for most of us. For Beth Shelton, this is her reality. As Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa, tasting cookies is just another day in the office. Listen to the episode to find out more about what exactly that entails. That’s only a very small part of her job however. Shelton spends her days leading the charge setting up women for success.
Working for Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa, she strives to teach young girls “courage, confidence, leadership, character, and entrepreneurship.” This goes much deeper than just cookie taste testing. According to Shelton, there is clear data that proves girls who participated in Girls Scouts during their youth go on to better careers and are paid more than those who did not.
Learn more at https://iowapodcast.com/beth-shelton/
Bryan Etchen, the owner of Iowa Orchard, explains why Honeycrisp apples are expensive, delicious, and why they make experienced growers want to pull out all their hair. We also ask why his orchard looks more like a winery, what local growers DON'T spray on their apples, and he names growers you can visit to pick your own apples.
Etchen's father started Iowa Orchard in the 70s, so his family has been in the Apple industry for a while. It turns out there's a LOT more that goes into growing apples than you can imagine. For example, he has opted to use a trellis system, which requires training the trees. It's not common in the USA, but some European countries have had great success.
Check out the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/bryan-etchen-iowa-orchard
We all know the term “farm to table” but what about indoor farm-to-table AND same day harvest-to-table? That’s definitely a new one. Clayton Mooney, founder of Clayton Farms, formerly known as Nebulam explains how their model works in this episode. Mooney believes indoor farming in Iowa and same day harvest-delivery subscription service is the future of produce.
Their original plan did not include being the farm itself, but instead, the indoor-farming version of John Deere. However, COVID-19 derailed the original business plan forcing Mooney and company to find a way to stay afloat during the nationwide shutdown. Mooney explains the technology behind the indoor farms. It isn’t vertical farming that has grown in popularity, instead think Ikea for produce.
Learn more at https://iowapodcast.com/clayton-mooney-clayton-farms
Growing up, we all knew that one kid who was constantly starting new business ideas and finding ways to get ahead. How many of them actually went on to start a successful business later in life? Mike Draper owner of Raygun is the perfect example of a “hustle bro” turned successful business owner/entrepreneur.
Raygun is an Iowa-based brick-and-mortar business that focuses mostly on custom printing and design of localized t-shirts. Draper says if you can put words on something they have tried it. He got his start making custom t-shirts during his senior year of college at the Pennsylvania State University, looking for ways to finance graduate school. After traveling around the east coast following his senior year, after traveling around the east coast he found success in custom printing and selling.
Learn more at https://iowapodcast.com/mike-draper-raygun
Drake University’s President, Marty Martin believes everyone deserves a pathway to achieve success, but success looks different for everyone. He explains how Drake University has a spot for everyone, starting with affordability, countless opportunities, and most importantly the University's ability to create “Unicorns” for the workforce.
Martin is a highly accomplished individual, serving as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force. Being a Kentucky native, he earned both his bachelor's degree and J.D. from the University of Kentucky. He started his academic career out as a Law Professor at multiple universities before moving into Vice President roles at the University of Gonzaga and finally serving as the President of Drake University beginning in 2015.
Learn more at https://iowapodcast.com/marty-martin-drake-university/
Innov8 Lab is a nextgen makerspace in Iowa City. Founder Tracy Jon Sargeant explains why the lab is making 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, soldering irons, and even sewing machines accessible to the community.
As a security engineer, Tracy Jon Sargeant came to a realization there weren't many people that looked like him in IT. Why was that? Unlike most people when they encounter a big life question, he jumped in full throttle to find out why and address the challenge. Innov8 Lab is only one result of his mission.
Jay Byers is CEO of the Greater Des Moines Partnership. He answers the question you were too afraid to ask. Who really cares about the Des Moines skate park and potential soccer stadium?
Iowa has seen record business filings and is showing strong signs of growth despite national inflation concerns. Byers explains how the Greater Des Moines area and central Iowa is helping drive that growth. He also explains the economic impact of the Dew Tour and the status of the soccer stadium... turns out the EPA had to get involved.
Read the full show notes at https://iowapodcast.com/jay-byers-des-moines-partnership
Kim Casko, CEO of the Iowa City Area Business Partnership says the Iowa City area has really big plans. A new mass transit system, affordable childcare, affordable housing, internet for all, and new river projects. She explains how the Project Better Together Plan came to be and how the pandemic helped.
Casko expands on Iowa City area projects focused on growing the area in 2030 and beyond and how to pay for it all. It's quite a big lift! She also touches on the new art building at the University of Iowa. Also, did you know there's a new gamified gold venue coming to Tiffin and some new developments in North Liberty?
Check out the full show notes at https://iowapodcast.com/kim-casko
Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand is very passionate about breakfast pizza: Casey’s or Kum and Go, which wins the crown for top spot? As of now, Kum N Go remains at the top by offering all day breakfast pizza, something Casey’s does not deliver. However, Sand confirms “zero tax payer dollars are put into breakfast pizza”. This hobby is kept off the clock, so what does Sand and the rest of the office do, and how would one hide fraud from him (just in case).
According to Sand, the question “what does the auditor's office do?” is his most asked question. Essentially, the auditor's office is the taxpayers watchdog to ensure there is no public corruption happening. With a background as a prosecutor, his prior career had him working hand in hand with the Auditor’s office. Before he was the state auditor it was his job as an attorney to decide if the causes were meant to be prosecuted. Now, he is on the other side, conducting the investigations and a few other jobs, including one that he has personally added himself called PIE.
Learn more at https://iowapodcast.com/rob-sand-state-auditor
WHO-TV Channel 13 has a new anchor. Elias Johnson took over after Dan Winters departed from the station in early May of 2022. Johnson is trying to bring something new to the station by changing his role as an anchor. Viewers should be ready for a holistic approach to storytelling and quite possibly a new era of restored trust in the media since 50% of Americans no longer trust the media. Johnson’s approach is focused on showing the difference between local and national news and proving they are not the same.
Johnson has been a prominent figure in Iowa news for 14 years, originally known as the “morning news guy” at WOI-TV for 6 years, channel 5. From the start of his career in media, storytelling has been his main goal. He understands how important it is to form real connection with the audience and community to set yourself apart in local news. This is clear in his ability to story tell.
Learn more at https://iowapodcast.com/elias-johnson-who-tv