Podcasts about iowans

Keith Murphy and Andy Fales react to the week of sports. We have the 2026 NFL Hall of Fame class featuring an Iowan ahead of the Super Bowl. William Penn had their annual TP game. The Iowa basketball programs are up and down. What's Bugging YOU, Scott School, intern stories, and MORE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The killings of Alex Pretti and Renee Good by ICE agents in Minneapolis have captured the nation's attention, but immigrant rights advocates in Iowa want Iowans to look closer to home. This hour, a conversation about the rights of immigrants and legal observers. Jose Yugar-Cruz joins, an immigrant from Bolivia who was recently released after a year and a half of illegal detention, talks about his experience through an interpreter. Then, attorney Lucas Asbury and community organizer Maria Acosta of Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice join the conversation to talk about the rights individuals have when they're approached, arrested or detained by ICE, as well as the rights of those who choose to act as legal observers.

Actor, comedian and writer Tom Arnold is performing for the first time in Iowa in over 15 years this week. He joins the show to talk about his childhood in Iowa, how he made his way to Hollywood, and life as a single dad now. Then, Des Moines native Zach Stoppelmoor is the first Iowan to make the U.S. Olympic speedskating team. He spoke with IPR 'Morning Edition' host Meghan McKinney. Then, host Charity Nebbe talks with hockey players and roommates Samuel Hlavaj and David Spacek. They've been playing the last few years for the Iowa Wild team, and will be competing for Team Slovakia and Team Czechia.

Hundreds of people attended a legal observer training in Cedar Rapids. A Democrat has announced his run for state treasurer. And a conversation with the first Iowan to make the U.S. Olympic speedskating team.

Scream into a pillow, punch a punching bag, vent. All these methods to "get anger out" could actually be making us angrier. Researchers Doug Gentile and Brad Bushman share their research into this common misconception and effective methods for reducing anger. Then, one Iowan believes reducing light pollution in Iowa could boost tourism. James Bruton from the Dark Sky Iowa Initiative shares the environment and economic benefits of a dark sky.

SIMON has ADAM STEEN, candidate for Iowa Governor, live in-studio. There were a few questions Simon didn't get to ask during the Moms for Liberty debate days ago so he is inviting all 5 candidates back to the show so Iowans can get to know them even better. Adam Steen, former Director of the Department of Administration, shares more of his vision for Iowa and answers Simon's questions about mental health, property tax, and cancer rates in IA. Adam is proud of his "Iowa Grit" and Iowa roots and he shares why...LISTEN NOW!

The White House adjusts its response to the killing of Alex Pretti in Minnesota, a growing number of Republicans voice concerns over Trump's immigration crackdown, and Trump visits Iowa to promote his economy as he tells Iowans, "we've got to win the midterms." David Noriega, Jeff Mason, Kyle Stokes, Rep. Jason Crow, Dan Nathan, Scott Lincicome, and Cardinal Blase Cupich join The 11th Hour this Tuesday night. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

01/27/26: As President Donald Trump makes his way to Iowa to discuss the economy, Joel Heitkamp is joined by Iowa State Senator and candidate for the U.S. Senate, Zach Wahls. Zach is serving his second term in the Iowa State Senate, is a sixth-generation Iowan, and an Eagle Scout as he runs for the U.S. Senate. In the legislature, he’s fought against powerful special interests exploiting Iowans, led the effort to ban politicians from insider trading, proposed common sense term limits, and worked across party lines to deliver real results for Iowa communities, both big and small. You can learn more about Zach and his campaign at zachwahls.com. (Joel Heitkamp is a talk show host on the Mighty 790 KFGO in Fargo-Moorhead. His award-winning program, “News & Views,” can be heard weekdays from 8 – 11 a.m. Follow Joel on X/Twitter @JoelKFGO.)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iowans protest ICE's presence in the Twin Cities. President Trump is set to speak in Iowa tomorrow. And the latest from the Iowa Capitol.

Black Future Fest is a month-long celebration focusing on Afrofuturistic art, fashion and community imagination in Iowa City. On this episode, Black Future Fest organizer Latasha DeLoach and professor of journalism and African American Studies Venise Berry join to discuss Afrofuturism and the upcoming events. Later, reflecting on the legacy of Lee Swearengin, who spent decades of his life institutionalized, but made tremendous contributions to Iowa archeology.

A discussion on the contested primary race for Iowa agriculture secretary and more on this Politics Day episode with political scientists Megan Goldberg and Jim McCormick.

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson welcomes Rob Sand, a political candidate and avid hunter, for a unique conversation that blends hunting stories with insights into Iowa's political landscape. The discussion kicks off with a light-hearted banter about hunting gear, particularly the merits of 125 grain broadheads, before transitioning into deeper topics such as the challenges of hunting in urban areas and the importance of conservation efforts in Iowa. Rob shares his experiences with the urban hunting program, detailing the strategies he employs to secure hunting permissions and the thrill of hunting big bucks in suburban settings. As the conversation unfolds, Rob delves into the political aspects of conservation, discussing a significant initiative that aims to allocate tax dollars for public land and water quality improvements in Iowa. He emphasizes the need for bipartisan support and accountability in government, highlighting the disconnect between public opinion and political action. The episode wraps up with Rob's vision for a more inclusive and effective governance that prioritizes the needs of Iowans, particularly in relation to outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship. Takeaways: "I think we should have more choices." "Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely." "We want better recreation, outdoor recreation opportunities." "It's about bringing people together." "The only thing we really have to look at is beach safety." "I want to take my kids camping, but I need to know the water is safe." "We should be making real efforts to improve water quality." "If you knock on doors, some people say no, but others say yes." "I had never put that much work into one deer before." "I think that's a big explainer for where we are right now." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson welcomes Rob Sand, a political candidate and avid hunter, for a unique conversation that blends hunting stories with insights into Iowa's political landscape. The discussion kicks off with a light-hearted banter about hunting gear, particularly the merits of 125 grain broadheads, before transitioning into deeper topics such as the challenges of hunting in urban areas and the importance of conservation efforts in Iowa. Rob shares his experiences with the urban hunting program, detailing the strategies he employs to secure hunting permissions and the thrill of hunting big bucks in suburban settings. As the conversation unfolds, Rob delves into the political aspects of conservation, discussing a significant initiative that aims to allocate tax dollars for public land and water quality improvements in Iowa. He emphasizes the need for bipartisan support and accountability in government, highlighting the disconnect between public opinion and political action. The episode wraps up with Rob's vision for a more inclusive and effective governance that prioritizes the needs of Iowans, particularly in relation to outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship. Takeaways: "I think we should have more choices." "Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely." "We want better recreation, outdoor recreation opportunities." "It's about bringing people together." "The only thing we really have to look at is beach safety." "I want to take my kids camping, but I need to know the water is safe." "We should be making real efforts to improve water quality." "If you knock on doors, some people say no, but others say yes." "I had never put that much work into one deer before." "I think that's a big explainer for where we are right now." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Simon has a fascinating conversation with Iowa Mother & Son, Mary Jo Starnes and Chuck Bickel, about the incredible way their father/grandfather was not only a part of history but also documented one of the greatest days in American history. Joe Hightower was serving aboard the USS JEROME COUNTY, a LST-542 class tank landing ship, on Sept 2, 1945. He witnessed history that day in Tokyo Bay when the Japanese signed their surrender to the United States on the deck of the USS MISSOURI. Joe kept journals during his time in the military and decades later his daughter, Mary Jo, discovered and read them. With the help of her son, Chuck, they turned Joe's personal journals into an amazing book of his first-person account of history. Iowans - part of history, witnessing history, documenting history so history is never forgotten.

Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Art Cullen and president of Iowans for Stronger Communities Jesse Case join to discuss the new documentary series, 'What's Eating Iowa?' Then, two farmers share how their family has evolved to regenerative farming in northwest Iowa.

Eric (The Analytical Iowan) is back on the program. And none too soon. There's so much going on and we need his insights. Let's get into it.

Eric (The Analytical Iowan) is back on the program. And none too soon. There's so much going on and we need his insights. Let's get into it.

In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson break down the first full week of the 2026 Iowa legislative session, with a sharp focus on property taxes, government spending, and the tone being set by legislative leadership. After years of debate, property taxes are unmistakably front and center—across party lines—marking what could be a pivotal session for Iowa taxpayers.The hosts walk through opening-day speeches from Republican leaders and Kim Reynolds, highlighting a consistent message: spending drives taxation. Chris and John emphasize that Iowa's recent income tax reforms were only possible because of disciplined budgeting, and that the same principle must now be applied to property taxes. Proposals such as a 2% cap on local government budget growth are framed not as cuts, but as a way to slow growth to a level Iowans can afford.A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the predictable pushback from local governments and media voices, including familiar scare tactics suggesting that any restraint will lead to unsafe communities or failing infrastructure. Chris and John push back hard, noting that slowing the growth of spending is not the same as cutting essential services—and that similar warnings in past debates never materialized.The episode also dives into specific policy ideas emerging early in session, including limits on tax increment financing (TIF), efforts to redirect a larger share of the SAVE sales tax toward property tax relief, and incentives for local government consolidation and efficiency. While supportive of the overall direction, the hosts raise concerns about proposals like senior property tax freezes, warning that they risk creating unequal treatment within the tax code.The discussion closes on a cautiously optimistic note. With multiple major bills introduced in week one and clear alignment among Republican leaders, Chris and John argue that the opportunity for meaningful reform is real—but only if lawmakers stay focused on the core issue: controlling the growth of government spending so taxpayers can finally get lasting relief.

In 1965, John and Mary Beth Tinker protested the Vietnam War by wearing black arm bands to school. The incident led to a landmark Supreme Court decision that guaranteed free speech rights for public school students. The Tinkers reflect on this history and present day threats to the First Amendment. Later, a new play from playwright Megan Gogerty works through her complicated feelings about her father and family's history as a sixth generation Iowan.

The Music Man was a 1957 Broadway show written by Meredith Willson, a musician from the small Iowa town of Mason City. The popular play (and later movie) featured a con man called Harold Hill who ripped off the naive people of River City, a fictional small town based on Mason City. Nearly seventy years later, Josiah Hesse, another Iowan from Mason City, sees the Music Man narrative replaying itself. As Hesse notes in his autobiographical new book, On Fire For God, today's Harold Hills are the megachurch salesmen who descend on small American towns to rip off the local community with their religious claptrap. "They know how to prey on people's fears," Hesse argues about these evangelical preachers, "how to locate the thing that's changing, that's new, and offer something that hearkens back to another era, a pure era of American wholesomeness." As another observant American midwesterner, Mark Twain, once quipped: "History doesn't repeat itself, but it rhymes."Keen On America is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit keenon.substack.com/subscribe

The first Black woman to graduate from Grinnell lived to be 111. She was admired for her wit and wisdom and helped with the preservation of her rich family history. We listen back to producer Dani Gehr's 2025 conversation with Renfrow Smith at her home in Chicago. Then, host Charity Nebbe spoke with the author of a children's book about Renfrow Smith, 'No One is Better Than You,' and the Grinnell professor that led the Renfrow family history project, Tamara Beauboeuf-Lafontant. Then, we learn about an Iowa organization that keeps pets and their owners together, assisting elderly and low-income Iowans and those with disabilities.

The Iowa Legislature gavels in for the 2026 session next week. On today's episode we take a closer look at the processes and people at the statehouse, starting with IPR reporters Katarina Sostaric and Isabella Luu to share their insights on reporting from the capitol. Then we talk about what's changed about the legislature over the decades with former state lawmaker Andy McKean and how Iowans can effectively get involved during the session with lobbyist Dustin Miller. Also, we talk with journalist and host of 'Iowa Press' on Iowa PBS O. Kay Henderson about Gov. Kim Reynolds' tenure and what's to come for her final year in office.

In this episode of Emotion Well, host Johanna Dunlevy sits down with fellow EFR employee—and 2025's Funniest Person in Iowa—Mel Mackey. Mel shares how she got started with comedy and improv, what inspired her to take the stage, and how humor can be a powerful tool for connection and communication. Together, they explore how comedy can create an atmosphere of psychological safety and break down barriers. Mel also opens up about the challenges of being a woman in the comedy world and reflects on how writing and performing comedy has supported her own mental health and personal growth. This episode offers both laughs and insights into the role humor can play in resilience, well-being, and belonging.You can follow Mel on Instagram.She also recommends following Underground Comedy Des Moines and comedian Matthew Jacobsen. You can also find Damon Tucker at The Station in Des Moines, IA for weekly comedy.Donate to EFR. 1 in 3 Iowans needing mental health care cannot afford it. Your gift enables us to offer counseling to anyone in need regardless of their ability to pay. Thank you for helping us keep our promise to the community: that everyone who needs help, gets help.

An interview with Lee Rood of the Des Moines Register about the state's agreements with the Department of Homeland Security that took effect this January, and with IPR's Rachel Cramer on new restrictions on SNAP food purchases, and more.

Daily Iowan student reporters Brad Schultz and Jackson Miller join the show for one final look at Iowa football's bowl game against Vanderbilt on New Year's Eve.

Diogenes Ayala was named Iowa's Emergency Manager of the Year in 2022 for his response to a Madison County tornado that left six residents dead. In December 2024, Ayala was appointed to serve on the National Advisory Council for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, but a few weeks later the entire council was dismissed by the Department of Homeland Security. Ayala discusses this brief appointment and what the future holds for FEMA. Then, Iowa Flood Center Director Larry Weber joins to discuss further investments in flood forecasting.

Trump meets with Ukraine's Zelensky in pursuit of a peace deal, while faith leaders hold vigils for detained immigrants. Iowans face losing health insurance and college education has become a major indicator of party support.

The speaker of the Iowa House says he wants tougher penalties for people convicted of multiple crimes. A new survey has found the number of Iowans who identify as a caregiver is growing. And a change in state law may mean big changes for Johnson County's board of supervisors.

Iowans share how they are trying to reduce pollutants in waterways on this archive episode.

Read more Regulators to consider appeal against Dominion Energy natural gas plant Spanberger, Virginia Democrats eye affordability bills — on a budget Holiday travel expected to break records again in 2025 Updated: Virginia ABC grants Roseshire gambling parlor limited liquor license Other links Metro needs more money. Will Virginia deliver? (WAMU) US government admits role in causing helicopter-plane collision that killed 67 (The Associated Press) Step into this Iowan's Jane Austen–inspired dream for her 250th birthday (Iowa Public Radio) Our award-winning work is made possible with your donations. Visit vpm.org/donate to support local journalism.

The remains of two Iowa National Guard members arrived in the U.S. yesterday. Iowans in the Sioux City area are worried about their medical care. And what was it like for new college graduates to search for a job this year?

Andrew Lopez is on FX's The Bear and Apple TV's Platonic with some of the biggest stars in Hollywood. He also has his own show in development with HBO. But it wasn't long ago that he was a kid growing up in Pella. Then, Donna Reed is beloved for roles like Mary Bailey in It's a Wonderful Life and Donna Stone in The Donna Reed Show. She was born in Denison, where the Donna Reed Foundation keeps her legacy alive.These segments were produced in September and October 2025.

Iowa is struggling — with rising cancer rates, a shrinking economy, overburdened healthcare systems, and families being pushed out of communities they love. This week, Rob Sand returns to Moderate Party to talk about why he's running for governor in a moment when many people would run the other way. Rob is the only Democrat who can still win statewide in Iowa, and he's trying to build a coalition grounded not in outrage, but in actual problem-solving.We talk about listening, dissent, navigating disagreement without feeding division, and what it means to govern a state that's hurting. It's a conversation about leadership, humility, and why the work is still worth doing.About RobRob Sand was born and raised in Decorah, where his family has lived for generations, and where he grew up fishing, hunting, and discovering his passion for public service while helping build a community skatepark. He began his career as an Assistant Iowa Attorney General and the state's chief public corruption prosecutor, taking on scammers, taxpayer abusers, violent criminals, and the largest lottery-rigging scheme in American history—later chronicled in his true-crime book The Winning Ticket. Iowans have since elected him twice as State Auditor, first in 2018, when he became the first Democrat to win the office since the 1960s, and again in 2022 as the only Democrat reelected statewide. In office, Rob has uncovered more than $29 million in waste, fraud, and abuse, held both parties accountable, and launched the Public Innovations and Efficiencies (PIE) program—an award-winning efficiency initiative now adopted in all 99 counties and replicated in other states. Known for working across political lines, Rob has included Independents and Republicans in senior leadership roles and supported staff regardless of their political donations, grounding his work not in left vs. right but right vs. wrong. Now running for governor, Rob is focused on lowering costs, protecting taxpayer dollars, restoring trust in government, and improving the lives of Iowa families. And when he's not fighting corruption or working for Iowans, you can find him bowhunting, fishing, biking, taste-testing Casey's pizza, or spending time with his wife Christine, their two sons, and their dog, Pow.Rob Sand for IowaReynolds signs law to limit Iowa state auditor's powers | Iowa Public Radio

Health policy analyst Emma Wager explains how the health care tax credits that are set to expire later this month work. Iowa Insurance Commissioner Doug Ommen shares what Iowans should know during this ACA open enrollment season and Iowa Farmers Union President Aaron Lehman shares the impact these tax credits have on farmers. Later in the hour, sports columnist and reporter Mike Hlas reflects on his career at The Gazette, after he was informed that he would not be retained on staff effective this month,

In this episode of EFR's Emotion Well Podcast, our host Johanna Dunlevy welcomes Ernest Phillips, founder of Relationship Wealth Enterprises, to explore how understanding our values and emotions can strengthen every part of our lives. Ernest, an emotional intelligence coach, author, and speaker, shares his insights on self-awareness, ownership of our choices, and how we can give and receive “universal currency”.You can connect with Ernest here: LinkedIn – Ernest PhillipsClick here to learn more about or purchase his book Tug Tips.Click here to visit Ernest's YouTube channel, The System Works.Donate to EFR. 1 in 3 Iowans needing mental health care cannot afford it. Your gift enables us to offer counseling to anyone in need regardless of their ability to pay. Thank you for helping us keep our promise to the community: that everyone who needs help, gets help.

An eastern Iowa county is starting a free Narcan distribution program. Public health experts are encouraging more Iowans to get the flu shot. And some areas in the state saw over a foot of snow this weekend.

Another day and more unbelievable, crazy stuff. Time to brin Eric in and break it all down. Let's get into it.

Another day and more unbelievable, crazy stuff. Time to brin Eric in and break it all down. Let's get into it.

In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson tackle a theme that is becoming impossible to ignore in Iowa: local and state government continue spending aggressively while taxpayers are told to “tighten their belts.” Using several real-world examples straight from recent headlines, the hosts walk through how cities, counties, and state agencies keep subsidizing private developments under the banner of “economic growth”—even when those projects fail.Chris and John begin with the collapse of Johnston's troubled Ignite Sports Complex, which received millions in tax incentives before defaulting. They move on to the stalled “Bombers” golf-entertainment project on Merle Hay Road—another taxpayer-backed venture now sitting as an empty lot despite over $5 million in government support. The pattern repeats across the metro: whether it's hockey arenas, soccer stadiums, or mall redevelopments, government repeatedly throws money at projects that the free market either cannot or will not sustain.The hosts argue that these failures aren't isolated—they're symptoms of a much deeper issue. At a time when Iowa families face high inflation and local governments insist they “can't afford” essential services without higher taxes, taxpayers see their dollars handed to wealthy developers, consultants, and entertainment ventures. This disconnect, they say, explains much of the public frustration driving property tax reform efforts and Governor Reynolds' statewide tour on government efficiency.The conversation closes with an unfiltered critique of the mindset behind these incentives: officials claim they are “pro-growth,” but Chris pushes back, noting that genuine growth comes from a healthy free market—not from government acting as an investment banker with taxpayer money. As he puts it, if Iowans are expected to do more with less, so should their governments.

For better or for worse, the COVID-19 pandemic forced Iowans to adapt.

A discussion on how federal cuts to Medicaid will impact Iowans and rural healthcare.

Writers Bob Leonard and Jason Walsmith share stories from their new series Portraits of Hunger in Iowa, documenting Iowans facing food insecurity and homelessness. Also, a conversation with members of the Des Moines Gamer Symphony Orchestra ahead of their first-ever honor orchestra concert.

How the COVID-19 pandemic affected the personal and professional lives of Iowans.

Veterans Day is set aside each November 11th to honor and thank all who have served honorably in the U.S. military — in war or in peace. This week, Gary Dolphin offers a standing ovation to the men and women who've answered the call to defend our nation. One of them is Green Beret Master Sergeant Mike McEmeel of Cedar Rapids, now President of the Galen Kittleson Iowa Chapter of the Special Forces Association.McEmeel reflects on his service, the legacy of fellow Iowan and Special Forces legend Galen Kittleson, and the enduring brotherhood among America's elite soldiers.Thank you, veterans — from all of us at the Fight for Iowa Podcast. Go Hawks.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When Mike Jay isn't announcing track and field meets around the state and country, he's sending running shoes to student athletes as part of the Track Guy Foundation. Also, a conversation about the veteran-led humanitarian organization Team Rubicon.

Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links-Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.

Iowa is asking for federal money to fund rural health care initiatives. The state has settled a wrongful termination lawsuit with a former public health spokesperson. And how are Iowans adjusting to higher health care costs?

The number of people identifying as Native Americans in the U.S. nearly doubled between 2010 and 2020, according to the U.S. Census.

Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA) highlights some key issues that matter to her as she enters the race for Iowa's Senate seat in 2026. She identifies some priorities that matter to Iowans, which can translate to issues affecting the United States as a whole. Congresswoman Hinson also discusses her biggest job, being a mom, which is why she is passionate about what schools are teaching American children. Bring on the Stupid: An ex-wife seeks reparations after her husband put her contact in his phone as "Chubby." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices