The Iowa Podcast

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 Doctor is in....the kitchen!  Rachel Lucs of Ankeny, Iowa has been a physical therapist for 5 years, but not only is she a doctor of physical therapy helping those in need, but she is also doctoring up amazing cookies and cakes for you to come to her home, pick up and enjoy!

Dessert Doc has been open for just over a year now and business is starting to boom.  With the holidays around the corner, you don't want to miss out on this episode.  Join us as Rachel and I discuss her inspiration, her service and even hear my on air review of the box of cookies that she brought to the studio.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/rachel-lucs-dessert-doc 

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

Anthony Hilleshiem is getting ready to launch a new and innovative business in the Carroll, Iowa area.  In early December, he will open the Big Bark Mobile Dog Gym for all of the customers who want their pooch to get what they need; exercise!

The 6 by 12 trailer will be coming to areas around Carroll and possibly much further for clients who may be interested.  Your dog can workout on the slat mill at their own pace to get their workout.  You can even watch your pet on a livestream while they are with Anthony. Join us as we tap Anthony's expertise and his love for dogs and learn all about this unique mobile dog gym!

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/anthony-hilleshiem-big-bark-mobile-dog-gym 

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

Planning an event? Wedding, fall festival, tree lighting? You'll likely have drinks for the folks that attend.  Anyone can have people go up to a bar and order one, but not everyone can have that "wow" factor of having a donkey walk around and bring your favorite beverage to you. That's where the Dinky Drinky Donkeys from Story City come in as your essential "beverage burros"!

Join me as I talk to Chris and Adrianne Vry about their venture to help make your event "kick ass" with their donkey duo that is sure to put a smile on your friends' faces at your next event.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/dinky-drinky-donkeys  

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