Podcasts about iowans

Eric the Analytical Iowan checks in on the program. We talk Hilary Clinton, the State of the Union and all the rest. Let's get into it.

Eric the Analytical Iowan checks in on the program. We talk Hilary Clinton, the State of the Union and all the rest. Let's get into it.

Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), the first female combat veteran elected to the US Senate and author of DAUGHTER OF THE HEARTLAND: My Ode to the Country that Raised Me, joined us on the Guy Benson Show today to discuss Trump's "homerun" State of the Union address Tuesday night, and why the Trump administration is addressing problems that Iowans and everyday Americans face. Ernst also gave updates on the status of the SAVE America Act, the debate surrounding the filibuster in the Senate, and potential military strikes against Iran, and you can listen to the full interview below! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump will be giving his State of the Union address tonight and there will be several special Iowans sitting in the gallery as guests of honor. Congresswoman ASHLEY HINSON calls in to introduce her special guests at the SOTU - Meskwaki Police Chief JEFF & MISTY BUNN, parents of SSG NATHANIAL 'NATE' HOWARD. On December 13, 2025, Iowa National Guardsmen, SSG HOWARD and SSG EDGAR TORRES-TOVAR, along with their interpreter, were killed in action, while three other Iowa guardsmen were wounded. Congresswoman Hinson is honoring the memory of SSG Howard by hosting his parents tonight. Senator Joni Ernst will be hosting SSG Howard's wife, Arianna, as her honored guest. Congressman Zach Nunn will be honoring the memory of SSG Torres-Tovar by hosting his parents, HUGO TORRES and ISABEL TOVAR as his special guest in the gallery for the State of the Union.

One of the most impressive politicians of this era is running for governor in Iowa. His name is Zach Lahn. Watch this. (00:00) Why Lahn Is Running for Governor (14:58) Why Is Land So Expensive? (22:18) Is There a Connection Between Pesticides and Parkinson's? (1:05:50) What Is Really Important in Life? (1:09:09) Has Lahn Been Attacked for His Ideas? Zach Lahn is a sixth-generation Iowan, entrepreneur, regenerative farmer, and candidate for Governor of Iowa. He founded Homeplace Ventures, restored his family's 115-year-old homestead in Belle Plaine, and is leading efforts to revive and strengthen rural Iowa communities. Zach and his wife, Annie, are raising seven children while restoring the land that has shaped their family for generations. Zach is the first candidate endorsed by the MAHA PAC, a recognition of his commitment to Making Iowa Healthy Again - cleaning up our food, protecting our land and water, and defending the culture and values that define our state. Follow and support his campaign at www.zachlahn.com and @zachlahn on X. Paid partnerships with: Good Ranchers: Use code TUCKER to get an additional 25% off your first order at https://go.goodranchers.com/tucker Brooklyn Bedding: Get 30% off sitewide with promo code TUCKER at https://brooklynbedding.com Dose: Daily supplements for the systems that support you. Use code TUCKER for 35% at https://dosedaily.co/tucker Last Country Supply: Real prep starts with the basics. Here's what we keep stocked: https://lastcountrysupply.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pints & Politics is a year-round gathering featuring The Gazette and special guests from across the state and party lines. National, state, and local issues are covered, with opportunities to zone in on the latest headlines. Attendees participate in audience polls, submit questions, and enjoy time with some of their favorite journalists, columnists, and guests! This beloved event and lively conversation invite attendees to learn more about the issues impacting their community.This event was recorded on February 18, 2026, at CSPS in Cedar Rapids. The Gazette and Presenting Sponsor, the Cedar Rapids Area Association of Realtors, brought this event as part of our year-long series. Panelists include Gazette columnist Todd Dorman, regional editor Zack Kucharski, and special guest Adam B Sullivan. Sullivan is a former columnist and editorial writer at The Gazette, and the author of 'At Liberty,' a column discussing libertarian solutions to issues facing Iowans. The Gazette's Elena Stark moderated the session. The Gazette's Publisher, Rick Green, introduced himself and his love of, and history in, politics.

Episode 286Onefinity CNC:The industry standard for at home production CNCs. Ball screw and linear rail construction - No beltsCompatible with all popular software, 15 minute setup, infinitely upgradable, and world class tech support!And its made in Canada. Which means Maple Glazed Rails!One Machine - Infinite possibilitiesUse the link below to order:https://www.onefinitycnc.com/?ref=AWP Sign up for Patreon for Early access, and special Patreon-only content:https://www.patreon.com/anotherwoodshoppodcastPATREON GIVEAWAY!Donate to Maker's For St. JudeEvery $5 earns you an extra entry in the Patreon Giveaway (Paid Patrons Only)https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=8679481&fr_id=134326&pg=personal Whats on our bench:

A report published this week by Investigate Midwest dives into the connection between pesticide use and rising cases of cancer for those in farming communities nationwide. Editor in Chief Ben Felder details the findings, and we hear from two Iowans that recently fought cancer who are featured in the article. Later in the episode, Luther College junior Mansur Kasali led a student initiative focused on making the federal budget and national debt a matter of shared civic responsibility, rather than abstract politics.

As election day gets closer the opportunity to hear from all candidates becomes more and more important. SIMON has ZACH LAHN live in the studio again to discuss more issues that concern Iowans

Some people build businesses. Some people follow a calling. And sometimes… those two things become the very same path. This week on The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth, I sit down with fellow Iowan and "Molly Squared" guest Molly Schreiber, founder of Challenge to Change and the nonprofit Mindful Minutes. What started as a young teacher's love of education became something much deeper after unimaginable loss. After losing her first husband in a car accident at age 30 while raising three children under three, Molly found herself returning to one unexpected anchor: yoga. That quiet hour at the YMCA became the lifeline that helped her regulate her grief, reconnect to herself, and ultimately reimagine what education could look like for kids, teachers, and even workplaces. Today, her programs serve hundreds of schools across Iowa — teaching breath work, resilience, emotional regulation, and mindfulness practices that ripple far beyond the classroom. This conversation is about: turning wounds into wisdom creating space for "The Pause" helping kids build tools we never learned ourselves and trusting your inner compass when life changes course If you've ever wondered how personal pain can become purposeful work… this one's for you. What You'll Hear in This Episode Molly's journey from classroom teacher to mindfulness founder The loss that reshaped her life and leadership How yoga helped her navigate grief as a young widow and mom Why kids today need emotional regulation tools more than ever The "5 Parts of Practice" framework used in schools The surprising number of thoughts (and emotions!) we process daily Bringing mindfulness into workplaces and healthcare settings What it means to live aligned with your "noble goal" Why "The Pause" might be the most important practice of all Resources & Links Challenge to Change: https://challengetochangeinc.com Mindful Minutes: https://mindfulmins.org Email Molly: molly@challengetochangeinc.com Follow Molly Knuth + The Found Podcast

2/9/2026 PODCAST Episodes #2293 GUESTS: Eric Branstad, Jeff Kauffman, Chris Saxman+ YOUR CALLS! at 1-888-480-JOHN (5646) and GETTR Live! @jfradioshow #GodzillaOfTruth #TruckingTheTruth

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 Big Beautiful Bill brought some changes to federal taxes. An ISU Extension financial educator shares the changes you should know before you file and resources that can help. Then, University of Iowa researchers talk about the Cancer Analytics & Maps for Small Areas map (CAMSA), a new tool they've developed that maps cancer risk down to your ZIP code, and how this tool could be an asset to public health officials, advocates and others. Finally — the Trump administration is rewriting the safety rules for nuclear power. An NPR reporter discusses these changes and what they could mean for Iowans.

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.

For years, Iowans have watched their property tax bills climb. Lawmakers are under intense pressure to pass something after failing in 2025, but some city and county officials worry these proposals will hurt their ability to pay for city services. In this episode, the mayor of Dubuque, former mayor of Carroll and the president of Iowans for Tax Relief provide their perspectives. We also hear from our listeners on the issue.

In this episode, our host Johanna Dunlevy is joined by EFR colleagues Tammy Hoyman, CEO and Haley Pederson Hundley, Substance Abuse Programs Director, for a deeper look at the heart of EFR's mission-driven work.While many people are familiar with EFR through its Employee Assistance Program (EAP), this conversation shines a light on the wide range of community outreach and prevention programs that extend far beyond the workplace. Tammy and Haley discuss how grant-funded initiatives allow EFR to meet critical community needs, with a special focus on the Restorative Justice Program. They explore how restorative practices support accountability, healing, and connection, and offer an alternative to punitive justice. You'll get an inside look at how EFR's prevention and community-based programs (including our Student Assistance Program) work, why grant funding is essential, and how EFR's mission-based approach helps create lasting, positive impact in the community.If you are in the Fifth Judicial District and/or in the Iowa counties of Polk, Warren, Jasper, or Marion, or willing to travel to the Polk County, Iowa area, you can reach EFR Diversion team, by phone at 515-471-2323 or by email at diversion@efr.org.For more information about our Student Assistance Program (SAP), visit our SAP webpage. You can call 800-327-4692 or 515-244-6090 to see if your school is one of our SAP partners.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.

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.

On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day's deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This week on the On Iowa Politics podcast, we discuss President Trump's visit to Iowa and so much more: 2026 election shakeups, Republican gubernatorial primary forums, a legislative forum and more. This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Gazette Deputy Bureau Chief Tom Barton, Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Sarah Watson of the Quad City Times and Gazette columnists Althea Cole and Todd Dorman.Read the articles mentioned in this episode: Iowa Quad-Cities lawmakers look to ramp up energy production in the state: https://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/article_9266bc38-061b-4b74-ac9e-0d7f88a97fa2.htmlFour Republican gubernatorial candidates lay out priorities during Eldridge forum: https://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/article_0c1232a3-3fd0-41d8-b594-83e8c242eff8.htmlCampaign Almanac: Wettach pivots to auditor race; Lundgren halts U.S. House bid: https://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/campaign-almanac-iowa-democrat-ending-congressional-bid-to-run-for-state-auditor/Hundreds of Iowans hear Trump's call for midterm election support: https://www.thegazette.com/federal-government/hundreds-of-iowans-hear-trumps-call-for-midterm-election-support-as-thousands-more-protest-his-appe/Cold weather, hot anger greet Trump in Clive: https://www.thegazette.com/federal-government/thousands-protest-immigration-enforcement-as-trump-visits-clive/5 takeaways from Trump's Iowa visit: Dems made up 'affordability,' no governor endorsement: https://qctimes.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_1f005c2c-c847-4f9e-83f3-1001a18c1a40.htmlThis episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.Comments: erin.murphy@thegazette.com, bailey.cichon@thegazette.com

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.

Iowa Business Report Tuesday EditionJan. 20, 2026     Chris Hagenow of Iowans for Tax Relief on components his group would like to see in any property tax reform bill this legislative session. 

On the Iowa Business Report weekend edition:* Legislative priorities are shared by Iowa Secretary of Agriculture & Land Stewardship Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, and Chris Hagenow, president of Iowans for Tax Relief* The Radicle Corn Challenge was announced to seek new outlets for corn produced in the U.S.* In our business profile, you'll meet Corey Jorgenson of Shell Rock Soy ProcessingThe Iowa Business Report is presented by the Iowa Business Council, online at iowabusinesscouncil.org. Additional support comes from the Iowa Secretary of State, sos.iowa.gov/protectyourbusiness.

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.