Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Willie Farrell, an Iowa-born comedian, reminisces about his 40-year career in comedy. Willie recounts his start at Spaghetti Works in Des Moines, where his talent quickly garnered attention, even earning comparisons to Freddie Prinze and Tony Danza. Encouraged by his mentor, former KCCI-TV personality, John Pascuzzi, Willie moved to Los Angeles in the early 1980s, where he performed at the Comedy Store and The Improv. However, homesickness and family issues brought him back to Iowa after a year.

Willie reflects on the dynamic comedy scene in Des Moines during the 1980s, with Spaghetti Works becoming a hub for performers. Despite offers to establish a comedy residency in Las Vegas, he chose to remain in Iowa to focus on his family. His local success has seen him perform across major American cities, making a name for himself with his crowd work—a signature style in which he thrives.

Farrell’s stories are punctuated by humorous anecdotes, including encounters with O.J. Simpson, Jessica Simpson, and Lynn Swann. He candidly recounts stories of his family ties to organized crime figures, sharing how his father and uncles were connected to the Chicago mob in the mid-20th century.

Throughout the conversation, Willie emphasizes his love for performing, detailing how he organically writes material and credits his ability to engage audiences in a unique, interactive style. Now performing in both Iowa and Vegas, Willie remains a celebrated Iowa figure in comedy, known for his wit, quick crowd work, and his enduring love for the stage, and dedication to his family and community.

In this captivating episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell interviews Robert Warren, the dynamic CEO of Hoyt Sherman Place, about the historic venue’s remarkable success and transformation. Warren reflects on a record-breaking fiscal year, with Hoyt Sherman Place hosting over 100 headline events and bringing in $6 million in ticket sales—more than double what it was when he first arrived in 2015. Warren shares his philosophy on curating the right mix of artists, from musicians and comedians to podcasts and free public events, that have helped Hoyt Sherman thrive and stay relevant in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape.

Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at how Warren’s leadership has driven both artistic excellence and financial sustainability. He discusses the venue’s new incentive program that rewards employees for their hard work during busy show weeks, fostering a passionate team dedicated to keeping the historic venue vibrant. Warren also highlights the restoration efforts that have enhanced the space, including backstage improvements that have made Hoyt Sherman more attractive to major touring artists.

Maxwell and Warren dive deep into the venue’s rich history, from its origins in 1923 as a vaudeville-era auditorium to its near-demolition before the formation of the Hoyt Sherman Place Foundation, which saved and revitalized the venue. The conversation also touches on Hoyt Sherman's unique acoustics, which have been praised by legendary artists like Peter Frampton and Ricky Skaggs, and the role of community support in the venue’s continued success.

Whether you’re a fan of the arts, history, or just enjoy hearing about how passion and leadership can transform a cultural institution, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the vibrant world of Hoyt Sherman Place and the people who make it thrive.

In this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, host Maxwell sits down with Grant Gillon, the 2023 winner of MasterChef, to discuss his journey from a small-town dad in Altoona, Iowa, to national fame as a self-taught culinary star. Grant opens up about what it was like transitioning from being a home cook to navigating the intense spotlight of a hit TV show. He reflects on the months of secrecy after his MasterChef victory, dealing with the sudden influx of attention and the unique pressures that came with turning his name into a brand.

Grant shares how his love for cooking, rooted in home and family, continues to shape his professional path. Despite offers from restaurants and culinary ventures, he made the bold decision to strike out on his own, building a career as a private chef and offering personalized dining experiences. He also discusses the lessons he learned while briefly working in a Des Moines area restaurant, gaining hands-on knowledge of the inner workings of professional kitchens.

In this candid interview, Grant talks about the challenges of balancing fame, family, and passion, all while staying grounded in his Iowa roots. He emphasizes his commitment to remaining in Iowa, where he can raise his family and contribute to the state's growing culinary scene.

Listeners will also get a glimpse of Grant's future plans, his heartwarming cooking sessions with his young son, and the joy he finds in sharing his culinary knowledge with others. Whether you're a fan of cooking shows or simply curious about how one Iowan has turned his dream into a reality, this episode offers an inspiring and down-to-earth conversation with a true Iowa talent.

This epidode is presented by WELLABE. Be Well.

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast "Weekend Pour," Maxwell sits down with two key players in the Greater Des Moines' home-building scene: Dan Knoup, Executive Officer of the Home Builders Association of Greater Des Moines, and Kirk Mickelson, owner of KRM Custom Homes. Recorded on-site at KRM's stunning home in this year’s HomeShowExpo 2024, the trio dives into the ins and outs of the custom home-building industry, the current real estate market, and the evolution of Des Moines’ residential landscape.

The conversation begins with an inside look at the HomeShowExpo2024, held in the scenic Shadow Creek West neighborhood in Clive, where both Dan and Kirk explain the year-long planning process that goes into showcasing Des Moines’ finest homes. Kirk discusses the design philosophy behind the beautiful home they’re sitting in, which he built to prioritize both family living and large-scale entertaining. With features like a spacious kitchen, a panoramic view, and smart home technology, the home stands as a testament to the craftsmanship KRM Custom Homes is known for.

Dan and Kirk also touch on the challenges builders face in today’s housing market, including rising costs, labor shortages, and regulatory hurdles. They discuss how these issues impact both builders and potential homeowners, especially those looking to break into the market. The episode also explores the HomeShowExpo 2024 as an "idea factory," where attendees can gather inspiration for their own homes, whether they're building new or planning a remodel.

From the future of the Des Moines housing market to advice for aspiring builders, this episode offers a comprehensive look at what goes on behind the scenes in the home-building industry, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in real estate, construction, or design.

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell interviews singer-songwriter Patricia Holly, whose musical journey to success began by simply having fun on TikTok. Initially, she gained followers by making satirical videos of the Johnny Depp-Amber Heard trial. Her humorous take on the courtroom antics struck a chord, and she quickly built a following.

What sets Patricia apart is her authenticity. She emphasizes how she started creating content because she enjoyed it, not because she had a grand plan to go viral. This passion for creativity—whether through acting, filmmaking, or music—has shaped her career. Patricia discusses how she had previously ventured into filmmaking, writing, producing, and starring in a film called Sucks to Suck, a satirical take on a vampire struggling at the job of being a vampire. Though it didn’t gain widespread attention, the experience taught her about the balance between passion projects and commercial appeal.

Patricia discovered that consistency and doing what you love are key to finding an audience, especially on platforms like TikTok. Once she gained traction, she shifted her focus to singing and songwriting, a passion that had always been part of her creative identity. She even gained representation from a TikTok agency, which helped her participate in viral singing competitions.

Patricia shares the humbling experience of independently releasing her EP's and receiving support from her followers. She reflects on the importance of hard work, not just viral success. With her unique voice and dedication, Patricia continues to grow her career, all while staying true to her roots in Iowa.

This insightful interview showcases Patricia’s blend of creativity, perseverance, and authenticity, serving as a guide - and inspiration - for artists navigating today’s digital landscape.

In this emotional episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell interviews MaryBeth Meyer, who shares the powerful story of her son James’s battle with cancer. James, now a healthy second-grader, was diagnosed with bilateral Wilms tumor, a rare kidney cancer, when he was just 15 months old. MaryBeth recounts the initial shock of the diagnosis and the overwhelming fear and uncertainty that followed. Despite the challenges, she emphasizes how their family chose to see the beauty in their community's support rather than asking, "Why us?" She describes the kindness of their pastor, who drove from Minnesota to pray outside their hospital room, and the many friends and family who offered assistance.

MaryBeth also discusses the financial struggles that come with a childhood cancer diagnosis, including the unexpected costs of medical bills, travel, and everyday expenses. She highlights the significant role that the Pinky Swear Foundation played in their lives by providing financial support, allowing them to focus on James's recovery without the burden of financial stress. MaryBeth shares the story of Mitch, a young cancer patient who inspired the creation of the foundation after he used his own savings to help other families in need.

Through this conversation, listeners gain a deep understanding of the emotional and practical challenges faced by families dealing with childhood cancer. MaryBeth's story is a testament to resilience, community, and the impact of organizations like Pinky Swear, which continue to provide crucial support to families in their darkest hours. She offers hope and inspiration to other families facing similar struggles - emphasizing the importance of giving and receiving help during difficult times.

In this episode of the Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with Iowan, Andy Elliott, SVP of Country Promotion with Red Street Records, who made a significant career shift to pursue a passion for promoting country music. Andy shares the story of his journey from behind the microphone, as a popular Iowa radio host and program director, to finding his way to Nashville as a record promoter with several major labels for artists like Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, Neon Union, Ryan Larkins, among others. He discusses the challenges and rewards of that transition, including the process behind lifting the voices and careers of some of the most creative singer-songwriters in the country music industry.

Andy reflects on the impact of his years in radio, including his connection to Maxwell in the early years of his radio aspirations. Maxwell and Andy also delve into the broader landscape of Iowa's music scene, highlighting the opportunities and hurdles for local musicians. Andy’s story is not just about a career change but about following one’s passion and staying true to oneself, a theme that resonates throughout the conversation.

Throughout the episode, Andy’s down-to-earth nature and love for his craft shine through, making this a must-listen for fans of country music and anyone interested in the stories behind the music and how to make a career in Nashville.

In this episode of the Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with actor and magician, Patrick Albanese, known for his role in the long-running show "Triple Espresso," in which he has performed over 3,800 times. The comedy is remembered, historically, as Iowa's longest-running professional show at Des Moines Performing Arts' Temple Theatre. The conversation begins with Patrick sharing the remarkable experience of returning to the stage after a four-and-a-half-year hiatus. Despite the time away and script changes, he seamlessly stepped back into the role.

The discussion then shifts to the adaptation of "Triple Espresso" into a 90-minute, no-intermission format, tailored for smaller theaters and a modern audience that appreciates a more streamlined experience. Patrick reflects on the challenges of cutting beloved comedic material to fit the new format but acknowledges the benefits of a tighter, more focused show.

Maxwell and Patrick explore the origins of his journey into the performing arts, tracing it back to his childhood fascination with magic—a passion that provided a unique connection with his father. This early interest in magic eventually led him to the renowned Magic Castle in Los Angeles, where he honed his skills and made valuable industry connections. A chance encounter at the Magic Castle eventually led to his involvement with "Triple Espresso," marking the start of a significant chapter in his career.

The conversation also touches on the importance of seizing opportunities, even when they seem small or insignificant. Patrick shares insights on the value of persistence and the willingness to take risks, drawing on his own experiences of working for minimal pay and embracing unexpected paths that ultimately led to fulfilling and successful outcomes.

As the episode wraps up, there is hope and anticipation for a revival of "Triple Espresso" in Des Moines, potentially offering a new generation the chance to enjoy this beloved show, just as previous generations have.

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Paul Despenas details his Grandfather's journey from Greece to Mason City in the 1920s, driven by the promise of jobs at a cement plant. Despite an injury that ended his grandfather's work there, the family thrived by diversifying into produce.

Paul's father, a Navy veteran, transitioned from jewelry sales to selling the novel product of aluminum siding in the early 1950s. Dissatisfied with the inconsistent quality of installations by his employers, he founded his own company to ensure complete control over the work, ensuring customer satisfaction and upholding his values of honor and truth, a concept rooted in the Greek term "philotimo."

The Despenas family maintained a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit, simultaneously running restaurants and the exterior remodeling business called Midwest Construction. Paul's father instilled the importance of integrity and customer satisfaction in his children, principles that guided their approach to business. When the family's restaurant was displaced by a new mall in the 1980s, they shifted focus entirely to home improvement, adding products like replacement windows.

Paul emphasized the importance of treating employees like family, leading to low turnover and long-term staff retention. This family-oriented approach extended to their business practices, ensuring quality work and maintaining customer trust. This ethos of taking pride in their work and ensuring customer satisfaction has sustained their success for over 66 years.

Interestingly, Paul's life also intersects with the music industry through his connection with the Iowa-based, world famous metal band, Slipknot, where he applied his sales skills to merchandizing for the band around the globe. This experience highlights his adaptability and commitment to excellence in diverse fields. Despite these ventures, Paul's primary dedication remains to his family's home improvement business, continuing the legacy of hard work and integrity established by his forebears.

Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast features a heartwarming and insightful interview with Al Downey, a 96-year-old Playhouse legend. Al and his wife, Ruth, sat down over coffee with Maxwell and he shared his incredible life story, starting with his birth in 1928 in Ottumwa, Iowa, delivered by his midwife grandmother. He recounts his early years, moving between Chicago and Ottumwa, and the challenges he faced growing up, including his father's illness and death when Al was just ten.

Al's recollections paint a vivid picture of his childhood, marked by his brother's teasing and his family's struggles during the Great Depression. Despite these hardships, Al found solace in music and theater, beginning his love for jazz in Chicago, influenced by his aunts' connections to legendary musicians like Duke Ellington. He also talks about the significant impact of his piano teacher, Mr. Fry, who nurtured his musical talents.

Al's high school years in Ottumwa were marred by racial prejudice, with the drama club refusing to cast black students in significant roles. Nevertheless, Al persevered, working backstage and participating in theater productions despite the discrimination he faced. After high school, he moved to Chicago, where he worked in a suit factory before being drafted into the Army during the Korean War. In the Army, he served as a company clerk and dispatcher, demonstrating his adaptability and resilience.

Post-military life saw Al return to Chicago, working at the post office and facing personal challenges, including a failed marriage. Eventually, he moved to Des Moines, Iowa, where he became deeply involved in the local theater scene, particularly the Des Moines Playhouse. Al's dedication to theater over the decades, both on and off stage, earned him a legendary status in the community.

Al reflects on the significant changes in racial attitudes over the years, particularly in Des Moines, and shares humorous anecdotes from his time in the theater. His vibrant storytelling and positive outlook on life, despite the many adversities he has faced, make this interview a truly inspiring listen. Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast continues to highlight the rich tapestry of human experiences, showcasing individuals like Al Downey who have made significant contributions to their communities.