Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast

In this special edition of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, “The Weekend Pour,” Maxwell dives deep into the fascinating world of Iowa’s music and concert photography with the legendary Mark Lage. Known for his uncanny ability to capture the raw emotion and energy of live performances, Mark’s work has graced local publications, magazines, and album covers, creating a visual legacy of Iowa’s vibrant music scene.

With a career spanning decades, Mark recounts his journey from acing a single college photography class at Grand View to amassing over 144,000 photos in the last six years alone. He shares how his dual passion for beauty and design, honed during a career as a hairstylist, naturally extended into photography. His unique approach—waiting for the perfect moment and understanding the rhythm of music—sets his images apart, capturing the soul of performers and their craft.

Mark also discusses the challenges of shooting in live settings, from battling obstructive microphones to navigating crowded pits at major festivals like Hinterland. He reminisces about working with local bands like Flipside, as well as his collaborations with cherished Iowa musicians, including The Nadas and Ducharme-Jones Band.

A highlight of the conversation is Mark’s stunning coffee table book, a 302-page masterpiece featuring over 1,000 photos from five years of Iowa music history. He credits international artist and mentor Oyoram and designer Lindsay Murray for inspiring and shaping the project, which captures iconic moments from events like PorchFest and Monday Night Live at xBk.

Available at MarkLagePhoto.com, the book serves as both a tribute to Iowa’s thriving music community and a nostalgic keepsake for fans. With plans to chronicle an entire decade of Iowa music, Mark remains a cornerstone of the state’s artistic culture in his retirement.

This heartfelt episode celebrates the artistry, dedication, and community that make Iowa’s music scene unforgettable.

In this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with director William Rock and actor Stephanie Schneider to explore their journey of creating the upcoming independent film, Jury of Her Peers. Set in rural Iowa in 1900, the film is inspired by a real-life axe murder and the subsequent trial of a farm wife accused of killing her husband. The filmmakers weave a compelling narrative of isolation, friendship, and resilience while capturing the social dynamics of the early 20th century.

William Rock shares the genesis of the project, tracing its roots to a chance discovery of the story during a scenic drive through Medora, Iowa, during the pandemic. His research unearthed the historical murder case that inspired journalist Susan Glaspell to write a one-act play and short story, both now in the public domain. Rock saw the potential for a modern retelling that preserves its haunting themes and layered characters.

Stephanie Schneider, who plays Dora Hale, the accused farm wife, reflects on the emotional depth and challenges of portraying a character navigating loneliness and societal judgment. She highlights the intricate dynamics between her character and others, including estranged family members and friends, as they grapple with personal and communal trials.

The filmmakers also discuss the logistical challenges of independent filmmaking in Iowa, from securing authentic period locations to assembling a talented cast and crew. With a shoestring budget and a dedicated team, they emphasize the importance of collaboration, creativity, and determination. The project has attracted a skilled local crew, including award-winning cinematographer John Hanson, known for his success in the 48-Hour Film Festival circuit.

Set to release in early 2025, Jury of Her Peers promises to be a testament to the burgeoning independent film scene in Iowa. Maxwell highlights the team’s dedication to storytelling and their efforts to inspire a new wave of local filmmaking. Follow the link for details on the film's release - https://www.juryofherpeers.com/

On "The Weekend Pour" - a special edition of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast - Maxwell sits down with Matt Roberts, Chief Planning Officer at Syverson Strege, to discuss crucial year-end tax and financial planning strategies. (*More about Matt, and a recap of our conversation with additional useful information is below!)

With the December 31st deadline looming, Matt emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, particularly for charitable giving. He explains the thresholds for deductions and highlights tools like donor-advised funds for flexible, impactful giving.

The conversation also delves into preparing for potential tax code changes in 2025, offering actionable advice for navigating uncertain tax landscapes. Matt discusses accelerating income or deductions based on future tax scenarios and the importance of collaborating with CPAs for accurate tax projections.

Listeners learn about Syverson Strege’s comprehensive financial planning approach, which includes retirement and estate planning. Matt also introduces their Financial Foundations program, aimed at teaching younger generations budgeting and saving basics. This insightful episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking clarity in their financial journey.

*Matt Roberts, MFM, CFP®, CAP®, is the Chief Planning Officer at Syverson Strege and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner. He is committed to serving others to enrich and empower their lives. His primary focus is to ensure clients maximize what they desire from their money and reach their personal and financial goals. Matt strives to provide peace of mind, joy, and clarity of personal and family wealth through comprehensive financial planning strategies. Matt also leads the firm’s Planning Committee which is responsible for the oversight of the financial process. He earned his B.S. in finance from Iowa State University and a Master of Financial Management (MFM) degree from Drake University.

A recap of our conversation and some extra info:

With the end of the year fast approaching, now is the time to ensure your ducks are in a row to take advantage of charitable giving opportunities, tax-deferred growth investments, and other tax-related strategies. 

 Items to Handle Before December 31

• Gifts to charity must be made before the end of the year. This includes gifts of cash, securities, and personal property. In addition, Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) will need to be made by the end of the year to provide benefit in 2024. 
• Consider a Donor Advised Fund for larger charitable gifts to generate a deduction this year, while delaying the actual gift to charity to when it makes sense for you.
• This may sound odd, but there could be a case made to generate more income in 2024 if possible. This could include harvesting capital gains or doing a Roth conversion. With the potential sunset of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act at the end of 2025, tax rates may increase in 2026.
• If you have access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan such as a 401(k) or 403(b), you could consider maximizing the contributions you put into the plan. The maximum employee contribution for a 401(k) and 403(b) is $23,000. An additional contribution of $7,500 can be made for those 50 or older. Unlike IRA contributions, these contributions need to be made before year-end to qualify for 2024.

 Items That Could be Handled Before April 15

• Traditional and Roth IRA contributions can be made up until you file your taxes or April 15. The maximum contribution is $7,000 with an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution for those 50 or older.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions may also be made up until you file your taxes or April 15. The maximum contribution to an HSA for an individual is $4,150 or $8,300 for a family. There is a $1,000 catch-up if you are 55 or older.
• As a parent or grandparent, you may have established a 529 Plan to help save for college. Each state has their own rules regarding the deductibility of contributions that can offset state income taxes. You can see your state rules by clicking here. 

On this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with Luke Dickens, the charismatic owner of Vinyl Cup Records and Marv’s Record Shop. A self-made entrepreneur with a passion for vinyl, Luke shares the fascinating journey that led him from a basement startup to managing four thriving record stores and collaborating with legendary musicians.

The conversation dives into the modern resurgence of vinyl, its tactile appeal, and the challenges posed by skyrocketing production costs. Luke offers a candid perspective on the state of the industry, balancing the niche appeal of vinyl with the broader dominance of streaming platforms. He reflects on how records have evolved from casual listening to a curated, meaningful experience.

Luke also sheds light on the economics of running record stores, emphasizing the delicate balance between offering premium collections and maintaining affordability. He shares stories of cross-country trips to secure prized collections and the community-focused ethos driving his business.

Beyond the record shop, Luke discusses his foray into artist management, recounting how his work with John Prine's family and the "Oh Boy Roadshow" became a gateway to the national music scene. From directing rehearsals at the iconic Ryman Auditorium to connecting with legends like Emmylou Harris and Jackson Browne, Luke’s anecdotes highlight his humility, adaptability, and dedication to fostering creativity.

This episode captures Luke’s relentless drive to grow, his respect for the artists he supports, and his unshakable belief in creating memorable experiences—whether through a rare vinyl find or a transformative musical collaboration. A must-listen for music lovers and aspiring entrepreneurs alike!

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with mother-and-son playwright duo Karen Schaeffer and Alex Schaeffer to discuss their unique collaboration on the upcoming comedy A Murder for Christmas, set to open December 6th, 2024, at the Amana Performing Arts Center with TKM Productions. The two share a dynamic back-and-forth, full of humor and insight, revealing how their partnership evolved and their creative process flourished.

The idea for their collaboration emerged during the COVID lockdown when Alex, inspired by years of “what if” playwriting musings, was encouraged by Karen to take action. The pair spent months of Saturdays, fueled by bagels and shared respect, crafting their first play, Prolog. This sci-fi drama explores themes of grief, humanity, and technology in a futuristic world where AI helps a widower confront loss. Karen brought vivid dialogue and voice to Alex's vision, blending their complementary strengths as storytellers. The play won the Drake University Theatre "Neighborhood Playwrights" award in 2023.

With Prolog under their belts, the duo shifted gears to lighter fare, producing A Murder for Christmas. This farcical murder mystery follows a former B-movie actress returning to her hometown to stage A Christmas Carol with the local community theater—only for chaos to ensue as cast members begin to meet untimely (and hilarious) ends. They describe it as a blend of farce, dark comedy, and holiday cheer, offering an alternative to traditional holiday theater.

Karen and Alex reflect on their creative synergy, emphasizing mutual respect as the foundation for navigating the challenges of co-writing. They discuss their individual theater backgrounds—Karen’s path from actress to prolific playwright, and Alex’s journey through acting and improv in New York and Chicago—showing how their experiences enrich their work.

This episode offers an engaging look at creativity, family dynamics, and the magic of theater, making it a must-listen for anyone curious about the art of storytelling.

In this engaging episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with accomplished Iowa cabaret and club singer, musical theatre actor, and Noce resident performer, Gina Gedler. The conversation dives deep into Gina’s impressive career, her approach to music and performance, and her unique journey in balancing professional artistry with a rich personal life.

Gina reflects on her extensive repertoire, admitting she’s lost count of how many songs she knows and performs, ranging from jazz standards to country hits. She shares insights into her transition from theatre to cabaret, explaining how rehearsals evolved over time as she grew more confident with her band and embraced the spontaneity of live performances. Her collaborations with talented Iowa musicians bring her shows to life, making each performance feel intimate and dynamic.

Maxwell and Gina discuss her influences, including iconic jazz singers like Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday, and how her eclectic taste in music drives her creativity. Despite being regarded as a “diva” in the best sense, Gina remains grounded, focusing on connecting with audiences and delivering heartfelt performances. She emphasizes the importance of adapting her music for each setting, whether she’s the center of attention at Noce or providing ambiance at a local restaurant.

Gina also opens up about her personal life, highlighting how her family’s support has been pivotal in her career choices. She talks about her niece Avi Gedler, a rising talent in the family, and shares advice for aspiring performers: stay authentic, humble, and open to experimentation.

Looking ahead, Gina teases new projects, including a potential old-school country show, while maintaining her existing lineup of favorites. This heartfelt conversation offers a glimpse into the life of an artist who finds joy in every performance and inspires others to pursue their passions authentically.

On Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell interviews the talented and multifaceted Napoleon Douglas, an Iowa native, Drake University graduate, and international actor, singer, and entrepreneur. As Artistic Director of Pyramid Theatre Company, Iowa's only Black theater, Douglas reflects on his journey from Roosevelt High School to his current roles as a creator and innovator in the arts.

The conversation begins with Maxwell recalling casting Douglas in Superior Donuts, a pivotal moment in his life. Douglas shares how this experience inspired him to pivot from studying molecular biology to fully embracing his artistic passions. Despite initial uncertainty about industry pathways, Douglas navigated through regional theater opportunities, earning accolades and gaining valuable experience before making the leap to New York City.

In New York, Douglas faced challenges, including balancing auditions with unconventional jobs like liquor auditing. These experiences shaped his resourcefulness and drive, leading him to secure agents, perform in notable productions, and explore entrepreneurial endeavors like video editing during the pandemic. Returning to Iowa during COVID-19, Douglas found new purpose, collaborating with organizations like Pyramid Theatre and Noce to foster a vibrant local arts scene.

Douglas emphasizes the importance of community impact, sharing his vision of creating platforms for underrepresented voices. With an MBA in Entrepreneurship, he skillfully combines artistic and business acumen to develop sustainable arts initiatives. From cabarets to collaborations with schools and churches, his work enriches Iowa’s cultural landscape.

Through candid anecdotes and thoughtful insights, Douglas underscores the value of mentorship, adaptability, and investing in local communities as stepping stones to broader success. His inspiring journey offers a blueprint for young creatives navigating the entertainment industry while staying rooted in their passions and values.

In this special Veterans Day 2024 episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with two distinguished Iowans: singer-songwriter Chip Albright and Iowa VFW Commander Michael Young, both with deep connections to the U.S. Marine Corps. The first half of the episode features Chip Albright, an Iowa-based musician inspired by his grandfather’s courageous service as a Marine during World War II. Albright’s grandfather fought in pivotal Pacific battles, including Guadalcanal and the harrowing assault on Chorito Ridge in Guam, where he was wounded multiple times. Inspired by family stories and a cherished book of handwritten notes from his grandfather, Albright crafted a song that paints a powerful picture of his grandfather’s experiences and resilience. During the episode, Maxwell plays the song, "Up On Chorito Ridge,” in full, allowing listeners to experience Albright’s moving tribute firsthand. In the second half, Maxwell speaks with Iowa VFW Commander Michael Young, a Marine veteran and longtime friend. Young shares stories from his service in Desert Storm, deployments in Asia, and peacekeeping in Somalia, providing insight into the personal and historical significance of these experiences. He also discusses the evolving role of the VFW in supporting veterans today, emphasizing the organization’s impact on community outreach and veteran assistance initiatives in Iowa, including programs for homeless veterans and disaster relief efforts. Maxwell closes the episode by encouraging listeners to connect with their local VFW posts and honor veterans’ service. This heartfelt episode brings together music, history, and advocacy, offering listeners an inspiring look at the lives of two remarkable veterans and the legacy they’re building for future generations.

In this lively episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell catches up with his former radio co-host, Amy Sweet, as they share personal stories and dive into the joys and absurdities of everyday life. The conversation begins with Amy's unique fascination with the gory details of her husband’s Achilles surgery, complete with photos that she enthusiastically shares. Maxwell and Amy reminisce about their shared "morbid curiosity" and banter about the unforgettable moments they shared as radio partners. Amy reflects on her journey from radio to podcasting, revealing the challenges and excitement of building her own podcast, The Foolosophers, with a longtime friend. The transition wasn’t without hurdles, but she embraces the chance to connect and engage in conversations that feel genuine and unscripted.

Maxwell and Amy also delve into the evolution of media and how corporate management pressures have transformed the industry. They discuss the impact of shifting from traditional radio to the podcasting "Wild West," where creative freedom and audience connection have taken center stage. This newfound freedom has allowed both hosts to reconnect with people and passions outside of their former structured radio careers.

The conversation takes a sentimental turn as they talk about family, specifically Amy’s daughters and their different personalities and pursuits. Maxwell shares stories of his own family, humorously describing his adventurous, head-first grandson. Their insights about raising independent kids, dealing with life changes, and navigating the emotional rollercoaster of parenthood resonate with warmth and humor.

As they wrap up, Maxwell and Amy reflect on the value of reconnecting with friends, old and new. With their engaging and candid style, the episode captures the spirit of camaraderie and heartfelt humor, a hallmark of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast.

Also - listen to Max & Amy host the Iowa State Fair Podcast!

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, magician and comedian Ben Ulin shares his reflections on a remarkable 36-year career performing at Adventureland. Ulin estimates he’s done over 25,000 shows, captivating audiences of all ages and building a legacy of loyal fans, some spanning three generations. He attributes the sustained success to a mix of humor, audience engagement, and the timeless intrigue of magic, where fans return to try to "figure out" his tricks.

Ulin discusses his comedic approach and his commitment to evolving performances. He engages audience volunteers and tailors each show to the crowd, which can vary widely, from families to daycare groups to teenagers. This variety keeps him engaged and prevents the show from feeling routine. For him, magic is as much about storytelling as it is about illusion, merging his passion for comedy with the craft of magic. Ulin describes his assistants not merely as stage help but as essential, comedic "characters" who bring their own personalities to the act, enriching the show and adding to the humor and spontaneity.

Reflecting on his start, Ulin recalls working in a magic shop and performing local shows while in college. Though he never planned to pursue magic professionally, he eventually realized his mission: to make a living through creativity. Adventureland has allowed him to achieve this, acting as both a consistent venue and a creative “laboratory” for his ever-evolving magic acts.

Maxwell and Ulin also discuss changes in the industry, noting the rise of social media “magic” and Ulin's hope for a renewed appreciation for live, three-dimensional performances. His passion and sense of humor shine as he looks ahead, committed to performing as long as he’s able, hopefully for years to come.