Iowa Revealed: An Adventurous Journey with Megan (Olio in Iowa)

Sep 18 2023 • 1 hr 9 mins

As your podcast hosts, we can't wait to take you on an adventure through the heart of America with our special guest, Iowa enthusiast and author Megan Bannister (Olio in Iowa). Brace yourselves for an enthralling journey as Megan uncovers the buried treasures of Iowa, a wonderful state often overlooked. We chat about everything Iowa - from its fascinating history and unique culture to the mouth-watering delicacies that define its food scene. Megan, with her infectious passion, unravels the secrets she discovered while penning her book, Secret Iowa.

Promising to satiate your wanderlust, we wander through Iowa’s one-of-a-kind supper clubs, recount the tale of a baby elephant at the Iowa State Fair, and explore the American Gothic House that inspired the famous American Gothic painting. Buckle up as we lead you through intriguing locations like the three-story cylindrical Squirrel Cage Jail, the twisty Snake Alley in Burlington, or the Rail Explorers in Boone, and even the Field of Dreams in Dyersville. We promise, Iowa will never seem the same again!

From the hilarious Cardiff Giant tale in Fort Dodge to celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa (Ragbrai), there’s never a dull moment in this episode. We leave no stone unturned, even discussing famous Iowa foods, including pork chops, sweet corn, and pork tenderloin. Whether you’re an Iowa native or a globetrotter scouting for your next travel escapade, we assure you, this episode is brimming with anecdotes, fun facts, and riveting stories that will make you see Iowa in a whole new light. So, pack your bags and get ready for a virtual tour of enchanting Iowa with us and Megan!