Welcome to “The Iowa State Fair Podcast.” It’s about time there was a podcast for Fair enthusiasts, curious minds, and anyone who just loves the Fair! Join us as we take you behind the scenes of one of America’s most iconic state Fairs. From mouth-watering food choices and thrilling rides to blue-ribbon livestock and live entertainment, we talk it about it all.
Each episode will feature interviews with Fair people who share their unique stories and insider tips. Discover why the Iowa State Fair is such a beloved event, rich with tradition while still staying up-to-date on the latest attractions and events. Whether you’re a Fair veteran or planning your first visit, ”The Iowa State Fair Podcast” is your go-to for all things Fair-related.
Tune in and immerse yourself in the people, sights, sounds, and flavors of the Iowa State Fair. Get ready to find out why Nothing Compares to the Iowa State Fair!
WHAT WE LEARNED FROM THE RECORD-SETTING 2026 IOWA STATE FAIR
What happens after the gates close on a record-setting Iowa State Fair?
Maxwell and Amy sit down with Iowa State Fair CEO Jeremy Parsons for a revealing post-Fair conversation about an extraordinary 2026—and what the numbers, surveys and fairgoer feedback are already telling organizers about the future.
Parsons takes us inside the Fair’s massive post-event “critique book,” built from employee input, social media, emails and surveys from more than 4,000 fairgoers. The results include remarkably strong satisfaction scores, but also some growing pains: restroom capacity, traffic, parking, mobility scooters and the challenges created by increasingly large crowds.
Jeremy also explains the ambitious “125 for 175” initiative as the Fair prepares for its 175th anniversary in 2029, discusses the $19 million Swine Barn renovation, and reveals why more shade, seating and expanded use of the fairgrounds are becoming priorities.
Plus, hear the behind-the-scenes story of scrambling to replace a canceled Rod Stewart concert, why rainy days may actually beat extreme heat, what fairgoers say about affordability—and why Parsons believes the Iowa State Fair may be entering a new era of sustained growth.
As Jeremy puts it, 2026 proved once again: Nothing compares.
23 Aug 2026
Live from the Fair: Part 3
The Iowa State Fair Podcast wraps up its special three-part live series from the Animal Learning Center with more of the people, traditions and stories that make the Fair one of Iowa’s most beloved events.
Maxwell and Amy visit with legendary butter sculptor Sarah Pratt, who shares the story behind this year’s Jersey butter cow and special Pepsi Clock sculpture, the surprising age of the butter she works with, and even how those creations are dismantled after the Fair.
Then, Lydia Miller takes us inside the Cultural Center, from a record number of dollhouse entries to arts, crafts, photography, kids’ activities and new creative competitions inspiring the next generation of Fair exhibitors.
Next, meet Geoffrey Grimes, the self-taught craftsman behind nearly 100 Adirondack chairs now giving Fairgoers a comfortable place to relax—including one enormous 10-foot photo-op chair!
Finally, Iowa State Fair CEO Jeremy Parsons stops by to reflect on record-setting attendance, weather challenges, free entertainment, the renovated Horse Barn, new transportation options and plans to make the Fair even more comfortable and pedestrian-friendly.
It’s a fun, behind-the-scenes finale celebrating the creativity, community and people who make the Iowa State Fair truly special.
20 Aug 2026
Live from the Fair: Part 2
Maxwell and Amy set up inside the Animal Learning Center for another special edition of the Iowa State Fair Podcast, exploring three Fair favorites that entertain, educate and inspire visitors of all ages.
Brooke Michael takes us behind the scenes at the Animal Learning Center, where more than 160 animals may be born during the Fair. From newborn calves and piglets to chicks and ducklings, visitors get an up-close look at agriculture — while FFA students gain hands-on experience that can help shape future careers.
Next, Fair entertainment interns Haley and Carly share the story behind the Bill Riley Talent Search, a year-round tradition featuring young Iowans ages 2–21 performing everything from singing and dancing to gymnastics, comedy, fire batons and even Michael Jackson impersonations.
Finally, North Polk FFA members Blake, Jaccie and Brynn introduce us to the Avenue of Breeds, where Fairgoers can encounter Texas Longhorns, a Brahman cow, elk, horses, Highland cattle, pheasants — and yes, that enormous catfish.
It’s another lively trip behind the scenes at the Iowa State Fair with Maxwell and Amy!
Who has been a guest on Iowa State Fair Podcast
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Robin Tarbell-Thomas
Lori Bauer
Mike Schulte
Gary Keenan
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
4.8 / 5
6 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
5 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 23 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
33
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
Contact Iowa State Fair Podcast
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
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