Business
-
Future Iowa workforce isn’t into big cities and flashy lifestyles.

Upon graduation or entering the workforce, previous generations 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 starting their adult life as governments responded to COVID, they see things differently. They’re focused on stability, low mortgage payments, and…
-
Why Iowans visit Story City to celebrate Scandinavian Heritage

Scandinavian Days happen every year in Story City and to celebrate Scandinavian immigrants, culture and traditions. This year, the event is June 2nd and 3rd. Shanon McKinley, Executive Director of the Story City Greater Chamber Connection explains the history of this annual tradition and how it’s evolved through the years. We also talk about Story City’s…
-
Five day “camp” to prepare high schoolers for A.I. economy

The AI economy is coming. Parents want to know if AI training for Iowa students is something they should consider. Iowa high schoolers want to know how to prepare for the new generation of work. Jessi McQuerrey with the Association of Business and Industry explains how the Business Horizons program has pivoted to prepare students…
-
One Iowan’s take on tax strategy is so aggressive it needs a disclaimer!

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…
-
Bank Iowa CEO on SVB Crisis and Impact on Iowans

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and takeover by Federal regulators sparked concern in the banking industry causing the DOW to lose 500 points early today (Wednesday). Jim Plagge, the CEO of Bank Iowa explains what happened, why it happened, and what impact this will have on Iowans. In just 30 min you will…
-
Blk & Bold Turns 5. Founder, Pernell Cezar explains specialty coffee

This was originally recorded for The Justin Brady Show and re-produced for The Iowa Podcast. Blk & Bold Specialty Beverages co-founder Pernell Cezar reached national distribution in Target in less than 2 years. As the Iowa-based Blk & Bold celebrates its 5th anniversary this year, we revisit this interview with him before they became a…
-
$30M fund investment director: the surprising state of Iowa startups

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…
-
She raised $1 million and shares digital marketing tactics you can use

Emily Steele is the founder of The Hummingbirds based in Iowa. She shares tactical ideas and strategies your small business can utilize to grow your following, and grow your business today. This interview is like a small business cheat code. What is Hummingbirds? Steele just had a successful raise of $1M to grow Hummingbirds and…
-
Why is alcohol more expensive in Iowa?

Why is Alcohol more expensive in Iowa?! Megan McKay, the founder, and CEO of Peace Tree Brewing Company explains Iowa’s nutty laws, why she started the company in Knoxville and announces their newest Iowa beer, 99 Pils. Why is alcohol more expensive in Iowa? Alcohol in Iowa is more expensive because of Iowa laws that…
-
Manufacturing coming to Iowa amid global economic shift.

Manufacturers are streamlining supply chains and bringing manufacturing to the USA. Leisa Fox started MakeDSM to ensure the Iowa manufacturing sector capitalizes on this historic 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.…

