The Iowa Podcast
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Burlington’s downtown is thriving. Was The Capitol Theater the catalyst?
Jeff Poulter, the new director of the Capitol Theater in Burlington, describes the venue not just as a historic landmark, but as a thriving “entertainment complex” that serves as the cultural heartbeat of Southeast Iowa. During a recent interview on the Iowa Podcast, Poulter detailed the theater’s evolution since its 2012 restoration, noting that the…
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Iowa’s “risk averse” nature linked to farmer trauma?
Have you heard Iowans are “risk averse” creatures? Research from Chris Morris, PhD at 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. Morris’ research shows stress from farming has a compounding effect over time and becomes mentally…
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Who’s behind Iowa’s iconic photos in media, the airport, and tourism magazines?
If you’ve seen a national media story featuring Iowa, visited the Des Moines airport, picked up an Iowa magazine, visited the Iowa Road Trip Facebook page or Instagram page, or have seen any Iowa tourism website, you’ve likely appreciated seen his work. Meet Brian Abeling the “Iowa Road Trip” guy. He explains the stories behind…
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Des Moines Symphony 1 of 4 in the country developing young musicians.
The Des Moines Symphony is finishing their Masterworks series and you only have three chances to see it on March 14 – May 10th. Many Iowans don’t understand how unique their approach is to developing young talent, which will be on full display these Masterworks performances. The Des Moines Symphony is one of four in…
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Will Iowa ban autonomous cars? Rep. Megan Jones explains.
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. Speaking on The Iowa Podcast, Jones, who chairs the House…
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Why are Western Gateway Restaurants in Des Moines closing?
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. Increasing taxes, work from home,…
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Does glyphosate cause cancer? Dr. Richard Deming reacts to news.
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 director of MercyOne Richard Deming Cancer Center explains why Iowa is #2 in cancer rates and what can be done.…
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Where are the best eagle watching locations in Iowa?
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. Watch the video to hear his tips and locations! Maggard is an…
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Iowa eyesore becomes iconic spot. Meet the The Ingersoll fixer
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…
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Cyclists from everywhere are coming, but will the town capitalize?
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?…