Podcasts about iowans

You may not know who Morgan Sackett is, but chances are good that his fingerprints are all over a TV show or a movie that you love. Also, a conversation with an Iowa City-based poet and fiber artist.

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

Iowa Business Report Monday EditionNov. 03, 2025      National financial journalist Jordan Goodman on last week's interest rate cut by the Fed and its impact on Iowans. 

Iowa storytellers share their own haunting stories. Then, we get spooky book recommendations for all ages of readers.

Hurricane Melissa plows across Jamaica, its eye now moving toward Cuba; Israel launches strikes on Gaza after Netanyahu orders 'powerful' attacks; HIV outbreak in ME shows risk of federal crackdown on homelessness; Iowans face changes to Medicare plans; WI Farmers Union calls for policy investments in rural Wisconsin.

The Blind Drive puts you in the passenger seat with Jeff Thompson and Tim Schwartz as they run down what's shaping life for blind and low vision people right now. From federal cuts hitting the Rehabilitation Services Administration to new pressure in Iowa over blind Iowans' right to keep their shades on (or off), the landscape is shifting fast. We dig into accessibility on the ground — including Target's move on self-checkout — and in your hand, with India distributing smart glasses and Apple cracking the door wider for third-party accessible tech. We talk White Cane Day, not as a hashtag moment but as safety, identity, and independence. And yes, AI is everywhere… but when you really need answers, is a human solution like Aira still the gold standard? Buckle up and call in with your thoughts at 612-367-6093. We would love to hear from you!   Useful Links      •      ACB on RSA Layoffs      •      Iowa Public Radio: Blind Iowans Protest Training Changes      •      Target's Accessible Self-Checkout Rollout      •      AI Glasses for Students – Times of India               •      Apple's Latest Accessibility Features   Thanks for listening.

Hurricane Melissa plows across Jamaica, its eye now moving toward Cuba; Israel launches strikes on Gaza after Netanyahu orders 'powerful' attacks; HIV outbreak in ME shows risk of federal crackdown on homelessness; Iowans face changes to Medicare plans; WI Farmers Union calls for policy investments in rural Wisconsin.

Loaded 1rst hour of the show - Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds updates Simon on her statewide roundtable tour listening & talking to Iowans about property tax, DOGE, IPERS and more! Next, Simon gets 'THE RUNDOWN FROM THE SHUTDOWN' from U.S. Senator Joni Ernst on what is now DAY 28! Who is next to be affected? Who is holding the government hostage? Who crossed party lines today and will CR vote #14 be successful? Listen to find our!

Iowa Business Report Wednesday EditionOct. 29, 2025     Ben Murrey of Common Sense Institute Iowa on the impact of today's Federal Reserve meeting on Iowans. 

Four businesses in Iowa are being recognized for going above and beyond in their efforts to hire Iowans with disabilities.  Tyler Hansen, Business Engagement Resource Manager for Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services (IVRS) joins the show to not only highlight these four companies but also talk about how IVRS is working to employ more Iowans with disabilities in 2026.  Find out what made these four companies successful, and how other companies can copy their winning strategies.

Headlines on today's episode include:-U.S/China trade talks sparking optimism in soybean market-Iowa Farm Bureau president encouraged by China breakthrough-No Cattle on Feed data, but analysts have thoughts-Quarter-million Iowans could lose food assistance amid federal shutdown-Farm Bureau leader says Congressional help is neededSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A clinician who works with a range of patients with autism helps us understand autism spectrum disorder, and Iowans in the autism community share their thoughts and experiences.

Iowa Business Report Friday EditionOct. 24, 2025   Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird on the increase in job scammers targeting Iowans. 

Eric The Analytical Iowan is back on the program. He was on just a few days ago but the conditions of the country warrant bringing him back. Let's get into it.

Eric The Analytical Iowan is back on the program. He was on just a few days ago but the conditions of the country warrant bringing him back. Let's get into it.

Analysts discuss the top political stories of the week, including Gov. Reynolds' DOGE task force report, the Gaza ceasefire and more.

The Analytical Iowan, Eric joins us on the program. We needed Eric to come back figure out all the crazy stuff happening in this country. Let's get into it.

The Analytical Iowan, Eric joins us on the program. We needed Eric to come back figure out all the crazy stuff happening in this country. Let's get into it.

Will comes on the show to talk about becoming only the second native Iowan to win Twin Cities Marathon on Oct. 5. He discusses the strategy that he used to pull away from Tesfu Tewelde of Eritrea while running 2 hours, 15 minutes, 39 seconds. The Northwestern College All-American and Red Raiders record holder talks about his celebration with family before returning to his new home of Charlottesville, Virginia. Will details his strong support system and the training plan of his longtime coach, who is also the father of his wife, Cleo Boyd. He talks about the challenge of breaking into gaining an invitation for the top tier of marathons. He also looks at the next possible stage of his career after winning the $14,000 top prize in St. Paul.

Iowans protested at No Kings rallies across the state. SNAP recipients might not get November food assistance benefits because of the government shutdown. And another Democrat is running for Iowa's 2nd Congressional District.

In this heartfelt and funny conversation, Emili sits down with The Black Rose owner, Ashley Kofoed, to talk about books, belonging, and building something beautiful from the ground up. A veteran, former teacher, and proud Kentucky native turned Iowan, Ashley shares what it means to feel safe but still Black in the Midwest, why she left education to pursue entrepreneurship, and how she created a cozy, boozy bookstore that's become a community haven.From classroom challenges to cocktails and connection, Ashley's story is one of joy, courage, and creative freedom.

Keith Murphy and Andy Fales take one last look at the Iowa-Penn State game before diving into Curt Cignetti's timely extension. Iowans cash-in, Scott School, and MORE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow welcomes Sarah Curry back to the show for an in-depth look at local government bond elections across Iowa. From small-town school projects to multimillion-dollar city referenda, Sarah explains why these votes matter, how they quietly drive up property taxes, and what taxpayers can do to stay informed.Sarah shares her experience compiling the only statewide reporting of bond elections, describing the labor-intensive process of contacting all 99 county auditors to identify every bond proposal on Iowa's November ballot. With $1.5 billion in new borrowing up for approval, the hosts break down how these long-term debts shape local tax bills for decades.The conversation tackles “mission creep” in local government—where school and city projects expand beyond essential needs into luxury facilities like sports complexes and pools. Chris and Sarah call for better voter engagement, noting that only a fraction of residents participate in decisions that can raise property taxes for 20 years or more.They also discuss the need for stronger transparency rules and better coordination among local governments to prevent overlapping tax increases. The episode ends with practical advice for Iowans: know what's on your ballot, ask questions, and understand that debt equals spending. Informed voters are the first line of defense against runaway local taxation.

As the federal government shutdown has entered its third week, we look at impacts on cybersecurity, research and nutrition programs.

Political analysts discuss the fragile ceasefire in the Middle East, the government shutdown and other major political stories impacting Iowans.

State and federal leaders want to grow nuclear energy. Supporters are excited about the job opportunities this could bring, while others are concerned about potential health and environmental effects.

Molly Gil and Tracy May are both mom's on a mission. The two are managers at John Deere Financial and know firsthand how challenging it can be for Iowans with disabilities to find rewarding employment.  Both are mothers to children with disabilities, and the two have made it their mission to make their company a place where people like their own kids can find a career. Learn how the two connected John Deere Financial with Iowa Workforce Development's Vocational Rehabilitation team to fill important positions by using the often-overlooked talent pool. 

Powerful interview with freed Israeli hostage Yoni Diller and Charles Schneider from Iowans for Israel

Gov. Kim Reynolds signed an executive order that requires work authorization checks for new state employees. The Iowa Supreme Court is deciding if low-income Iowans should have to pay court fees if their case is dismissed. And methane from landfills in Dubuque is converted into natural gas to power homes.

Iowa Business Report Wednesday EditionOct. 08, 2025      U.S. Sen. Charles Grassley (R-New Hartford) on direct impacts to Iowans resulting from the federal government shutdown. 

Vinh Nguyen has lived in Iowa for decades, but he grew up in Vietnam during the war, which ended April 30, 1975.

Josh Turek knows how to win. A U.S. Senate candidate, current Iowa State Legislator, and two-time Paralympic gold medalist for Team USA, Josh joins Andrew Vontz & Jonathan Kaplan on United States of Sweat presented by Choose the Hard Way. This is the show where politicians and policymakers share stories about fitness, health and the sports they love playing.  Josh has faced adversity his entire life. Born with Spina Bifida after his dad was exposed to Agent Orange in Vietnam, he overcame 21 surgeries by the age of 12. Later he was cut from the Team USA wheelchair basketball squad six times.  Relentless in his training and as a top professional wheelchair basketball player, Josh kept coming back.  He finally made the team and went on to represent the U.S. at four Para-Olympics where he won two gold medals. After his basketball career ended with a gold medal in Tokyo in 2021, Josh campaigned to represent his hometown of Council Bluffs in the state legislature.  Competing in a district that Donald Trump won twice, Josh pushed his chair up hills and crawled up stairs to talk to Iowans of all political stripes, eventually winning his first race by six votes.  He was re-elected by a five-point margin at the same time Trump was winning the seat by eight points, not only because of his work ethic but because he's developed a reputation as a common-sense, bipartisan legislator. --------- Jonathan Kaplan is the founder of WRITE CADENCE STRATEGIES, helping individuals and organizations navigate Washington, shape policy and manage reputational risk. He also writes RIDING WITH, a newsletter and podcast exploring the intersection of pro cycling, media, business and politics. Find that at ridingwithkaplan.substack.com. --------- The number one way to support Choose the Hard Way is to become a paid subscriber to  alwaysthehardway.substack.com. That's where Andrew Vontz shares his reflections on these interviews and writes about engaged mindfulness, bikes and life.  --------- For senior execs, pro athletes, and political leaders, podcasts aren't optional anymore. They're mission-critical. At One Real Voice, Andrew Vontz coaches leaders 1:1 to help them thrive as storytellers and stand out in the long-form podcast conversations where real influence is built.  When you're ready to be great, DM him @hardwaypod or email hello@onerealvoice.com. --------- Wherever you're listening to this podcast, please subscribe and hit 5 stars. ------------- Crypto curious? With over $1 trillion in transactions to date, https://www.blockchain.com/ is your trusted partner on your crypto journey. Create your free wallet and get up to 10% in annual rewards by putting your crypto to work. Go to Blockchain.com to get started today, no experience required. ------------- Choose the Hard Way Newsletter: https://alwaysthehardway.substack.com/ ------------- One Real Voice podcast coaching & strategy: https://www.onerealvoice.com/

Eric the Analytical Iowan joins us on the program today. With all that's going on it's great to get his perspective. Let's get into it.

Eric the Analytical Iowan joins us on the program today. With all that's going on it's great to get his perspective. Let's get into it.

This week, we take a break from our regularly scheduled programming to listen in on the "Medicaid and Hospitals" session from the 2025 Iowa Ideas conference hosted by The Gazette. Iowa hospitals are in a period of "uncertainty" as changes to Medicaid enacted as part of a sweeping tax and spending bill take effect. Is a fund allocating billions to some rural hospital losses easing concerns? What does this mean for the state's rural providers? We'll unpack the changes in Medicaid and what it means for Iowa's hospitals and providers and how those changes might impact you. Iowa Ideas is a free virtual conference put on by The Gazette annually. Together, Iowans explore and share perspectives on the issues impacting the state. Watch replays from the 2025 conference at www.iowaideas.com.This episode was hosted by Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. The Iowa Ideas session was moderated by Gazette Deputy Bureau Chief Tom Barton. Gazette social video producer Bailey Cichon produced this episode.

Iowans who own their own businesses are vital to the workforce. But, for those interested in entrepreneurship, the path ahead might be overwhelming. For Iowans looking to own their own business, many wonder: where do you start? One place might be Entrepreneurship Professor Malinda Shultice's classroom at Iowa State University. Mission: Employable podcast hosts Ben Oldach and Kathy Leggett as they learn what it takes to launch your own business from Professor Shultice. Learn from Shultice how the experience of running her own business helps keep the class practical and relevant to new students. 

In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson dive into the latest ITR Foundation poll, offering fresh insight into how Iowans feel about taxes, spending, education, and the state's political environment. With overwhelming bipartisan support for constitutional limits on raising taxes and capping property tax growth, the poll makes clear that taxpayers want stronger protections — and they want them now.The conversation also takes a serious turn with the shocking story of Des Moines school superintendent Ian Roberts, who was detained by federal agents under a long-standing deportation order. Chris and John walk through the facts of the case, raise questions about how Roberts was ever hired to lead Iowa's largest school district, and criticize the evasive responses of Democratic leaders. For Iowans, the scandal isn't just about immigration — it's about accountability in education and government.From there, the hosts return to the numbers: the poll shows Iowa Republicans remain in a strong position heading into 2026, with a +10 point generic ballot advantage even in what should be a difficult midterm environment for the party in power. Education Savings Accounts continue to gain support as more families see their benefits firsthand, while property tax reform remains a political winner that cuts across party lines.The episode closes with a thoughtful exchange on tariffs and trade, showing how conservative views on economic policy are shifting in the Trump era. Chris and John weigh the populist push for tariffs against Iowa's agricultural reliance on global markets, highlighting both risks and opportunities. It's a conversation that shows how national debates directly impact Iowa families and businesses.

This Soil Sisters podcast features Austin Frerick, an author and expert on agriculture and antitrust policy, discussing his book 'Barons: Money, Power, and the Corruption of America's Food Industry.' The conversation unpacks many complexities of the American food system and solutions to break free from the current model. Austin emphasizes the power of our voices to usher in substantial food system reform through local and institutional channels like schools and hospitals, to rekindle traditional farming practices, and create resilient agricultural communities. MEET OUR GUEST: Austin Frerick is an expert on agricultural and antitrust policy. In 2024, he published his debut book, entitled Barons: Money, Power, and the Corruption of America's Food Industry. The book, which includes a forward by Eric Schlosser, profiles a series of powerful magnates to illustrate the concentration of power in the global food system.Frerick previously worked at the Open Markets Institute, the U.S. Department of Treasury, and the Congressional Research Service before becoming a Fellow at Yale University. He is a 7th generation Iowan and 1st generation college graduate, with degrees from Grinnell College and the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He also serves on the Board of Directors as Vice President for Common Good Iowa and as Treasurer for the Socially Responsible Agriculture Project. In 2022, The Advocate named him a "Champion of Pride.” He has been quoted in The New York Times, National Geographic, Bloomberg, Politico, Vanity Fair, and The Washington Post, among others.TIME STAMPS:00:00 Welcome to Soil Sisters Podcast00:45 Introducing Austin Frerick01:18 The Broken Food System02:22 The Importance of Traditional Farming03:23 Challenges in the Food Industry09:19 The Walmart Effect13:32 The Power of Local Grocery Stores21:07 The Impact of Checkoff Programs30:25 The Ethanol Debate34:12 The Farm Bill and Subsidies: Who Really Benefits?35:16 The Monopoly on Chicken Genetics and Its Consequences36:06 The Decline of Family Farms and Worker Conditions37:36 The Impact of Monocropping and GMO Feed on Livestock41:32 The Problem with Food Labels and Organic Standards43:00 The American Food System vs. European Models46:08 The Role of Government and Industry in Food Quality48:52 The Future of Farming: Regenerative Practices and Policy Changes 01:04:06 The Illusion of Choice in the Food Market01:07:02 Struggles of Minimum Wage Workers01:08:25 The Hidden Costs of Convenience Foods01:08:56 The Dollar General Dilemma01:10:00 The Decline of Slaughterhouse Towns01:13:49 The Exploitation in Chicken Farming01:16:50 The Rise of Cisco01:22:12 The Importance of Local Food Systems01:24:28 The Impact of Poor Quality Food01:28:23 The Problem with Cheap Imports01:35:56 The Power of Passionate Industry Leaders01:36:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

From quirky t-shirts to SNL laughs to a glamorous Muppet — discover what makes these Iowans truly famous.

Send us a textIn this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by two medical providers from MercyOne Medical Center & Hospital in Clinton, Iowa. Christine Lynch, DPM, is a podiatrist at MercyOne Clinton Specialty Care. She earned her bachelor's degree in biology from Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa, and her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from Des Moines University. Christine completed her residency at Miami VA Hospital in Miami, Florida.Dr. Lynch focuses on understanding her patients, educating them about their conditions, and helping them select the most suitable treatment options for their individual lifestyles. Outside of work, Christine enjoys walking her dog, supporting her children, and baking.W. Ashton Nickles, DPM, is also a podiatrist specializing in podiatric surgery at MercyOne Clinton Specialty Care. Originally from Southern California, he now considers himself an Iowan. He attended Brigham Young University for his undergraduate studies, majoring in Human Development. He moved to Iowa to continue his education at Des Moines University in 1999 and trained at Broadlawns Medical Center.Outside of work, Ashton spends most of his time with his wife and seven children. He enjoys outdoor activities such as woodworking, canoeing, and camping. He is actively involved in his faith and volunteers at his church, currently teaching an early morning gospel study class for high school students.Dr. Lynch and Dr. Nickles can be reached by calling 563.244.5900.For more information about MercyOne Clinton, visit their website at https://lnkd.in/gsgtqv_8. To promote your business, organization, or event on the podcast, contact Grow Clinton at 563.242.5702 or visit www.GrowClinton.com.Grow Clinton values your feedback! Please complete a short survey at https://lnkd.in/gfzKpUEM.Grow Clinton champions economic growth, fosters community, and supports the sustainable success of businesses in the Greater Clinton Region.Thank you for your ongoing support. ~Andy

An Iowan is going to Rome to meet with the Pope. Some blind Iowans are concerned about changes to a state program. And Iowa Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver has stepped down.

The Mission: Employable podcast is dedicated to telling the stories of all Iowans in the workforce. These stories often include sharing real world experiences of Iowans with disabilities as they overcome workforce barriers and find meaningful employment. In this episode, the Mission: Employable team sits down with the Iowa State Treasurer's Office to highlight Iowa's Achieving a Better Life Experience (IABLE) savings plan. This federal savings program allows Iowans with disabilities to save money without the risk of losing benefits. In January of 2026, nearly 130,000 Iowans will qualify for one of these plans. Learn more about this program with an open discussion from Mission: Employable host Ben Oldach and Deputy State Treasurer, Alicia Callanan

The service and sacrifice of Black Americans in defense of the United States is believed to be a driving force in the progress of civil rights over generations.

Marissa Eyanson, Director of Behavioral Health for the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, shares how her department is breaking down silos between its behavioral health and disability service systems to make it easier for Iowans to access care; Dr. Paul Petersen, Director of the Emergency Preparedness Program with the Tennessee Department of Health, explains how his state teamed up with ASTHO to strengthen its Healthcare Resource Tracking System (HRTS) and support emergency preparedness efforts; on September 16th, PHIG Partners Public Health Data Modernization Implementation Center Program will hold the first of two Q&A sessions on Wave 2 applications; and Thursday, September 18th, ASTHO will host its second session in its three-part Succession Planning series to help public health agencies develop a more resilient workforce. Iowa HHS: State of Iowa Launches New Behavioral Health and Disability Services Systems ASTHO Resource: Public Health Preparedness PHIG Partners: Public Health Data Modernization IC Program Wave 2 Q&A (Session 1) ASTHO Webinar: Succession Planning Part 2 of 3: Laying the Groundwork  

The Oskaloosa Community School District is investigating a teacher who allegedly posted comments that appeared to celebrate Charlie Kirk's death. The Iowa DNR is starting a new project to try to reduce E. coli in some Iowa water. And why are some Iowans concerned about Flock cameras?

The Trump Administration's agenda is encountering legal challenges on multiple fronts, including the president's tariffs, attempts to withhold federal funding from universities, and efforts to crack down on crime in certain cities. FOX News Sunday anchor Shannon Bream joins the Rundown to break down these legal battles and weigh in on controversies surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein probe, Florida's vaccine mandate ban, and the recent military strike on a suspected Tren de Aragua drug trafficking boat off of the coast of Venezuela. To regain control of the Senate, the Democrats need to flip four seats and defend the ones they currently hold in next year's midterm elections. Iowa Republican Congresswoman Ashley Hinson has announced her candidacy for the Senate seat currently held by the retiring Joni Ernst, a seat the Democrats believe may be in play. She joins the Rundown to discuss her campaign, how Iowans feel about the President's trade policies, and her plans to keep that seat red. Plus, commentary from the host of “Tomi Lahren is Fearless" on Outkick, Tomi Lahren. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We asked Iowans masculinity means to them 2025.

The Trump Administration's agenda is encountering legal challenges on multiple fronts, including the president's tariffs, attempts to withhold federal funding from universities, and efforts to crack down on crime in certain cities. FOX News Sunday anchor Shannon Bream joins the Rundown to break down these legal battles and weigh in on controversies surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein probe, Florida's vaccine mandate ban, and the recent military strike on a suspected Tren de Aragua drug trafficking boat off of the coast of Venezuela. To regain control of the Senate, the Democrats need to flip four seats and defend the ones they currently hold in next year's midterm elections. Iowa Republican Congresswoman Ashley Hinson has announced her candidacy for the Senate seat currently held by the retiring Joni Ernst, a seat the Democrats believe may be in play. She joins the Rundown to discuss her campaign, how Iowans feel about the President's trade policies, and her plans to keep that seat red. Plus, commentary from the host of “Tomi Lahren is Fearless" on Outkick, Tomi Lahren. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Des Moines' bus system proposes reducing services by about 10 percent under a new plan aimed at avoiding a major budget shortfall. A Democrat who was running for the US House now says he'll run for Senate instead. And health experts say this flu season could be a severe one – and they want more Iowans to get a flu shot.

IowaWORKS has offices all across the state, but sometimes it's easier for workforce services to come to you; enter the IowaWORKS Mobile Workforce Center.  This one-stop shop on wheels travels across Iowa making it easy for job seekers to learn about unemployment benefits, openings, and how to navigate through Iowa's largest online job bank. Hear from Driver and Career Planner Edgar Ramirez about what the mobile center has to offer, and the stories of Iowans he's served on the road.