Audio version:
If you’re a fan of Iowa’s iconic breaded pork tenderloin, this episode of The Iowa Podcast: Iowa Eats Edition is a can’t-miss.
Guest host Jensen Cummings, a fifth-generation chef and food storyteller, steps in for Justin Brady to sit down with the one and only JayJay Goodvin, also known as The Iowa Gallivant.
JayJay brings his encyclopedic knowledge of Iowa’s small towns, culinary traditions, and local landmarks to the table—literally and figuratively.
Iowa stories for your inbox
Justin, David, & Kaylee cover Iowa news, agriculture, business and tech. No clickbait. No rage. No agenda. Support our vision and subscribe!
Broadcast from the Jethro’s BBQ studio in Des Moines’ East Village, this episode dives into JayJay’s epic journey across all 99 Iowa counties, sampling a breaded pork tenderloin in each one in search of the best. After countless bites and conversations, he was crowned a statewide champion—and he’s here to share how he made that delicious decision.
Beyond tenderloins, we dig into JayJay’s coverage of the Iowa Beef Council’s Best Burger finalistsand his current tour spotlighting “Specials” dishes in every county—a new lens into Iowa’s evolving food identity. His insights go beyond just flavor, touching on the people, stories, and heritage that make each bite matter.
Jensen shares his “Why” behind hosting Iowa Eats: to explore Iowa food culture, uncover the originators and innovators, and understand what food means to the people who grow, cook, and eat it. And when it comes to defining “Iowa food culture,” JayJay’s heartfelt and humorous reflections do not disappoint. Whether you’re a proud Iowan or just pork-curious, this episode is a celebration of local flavor, regional pride, and the hidden gems tucked between cornfields. Tune in, take notes—and maybe plan your next road trip around one of JayJay’s legendary recommendations.
The opinions of guest hosts are their own, and may not represent the opinions of The Iowa Podcast or IowaPodcast.com.