The Iowa State Fair Podcast kicks off its first of three “LIVE at the Fair” episodes from the brand-new Blue Ribbon Bar & Eatery on the Grand Concourse. Max and Amy welcome a lively lineup of guests, starting with 2024 Iowa State Fair Queen Ellie Blackford of Clarke County, who shares her reflections as she prepares to pass the crown to this year’s winner. Brooks Reynolds from JR’s Southpork Ranch drops by to talk about the sense of camaraderie that exists among State Fair food vendors, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the friendships that flavor the Fair as much as the food does.
Next up, FFA leaders Laura Steinkamp and Lindsay Beyer join the conversation to share their busy schedules and involvement at the Fair. Laura, representing Carroll, serves as the Iowa FFA Southwest Vice President, while Lindsay, from Quasqueton, serves as the Northeast President. Their passion for agriculture and leadership comes through as they discuss the opportunities and experiences that make the Fair such an important stage for young agricultural leaders from across Iowa.
Wrapping up the episode, Iowa State Fair CEO Jeremy Parsons chats with Max and Amy about the excitement of opening day and the buzz surrounding this year’s “Fair Sweet Fair” theme. Toby Kruse, representing the Blue Ribbon Bar & Eatery, caps things off with news of the overwhelming success the new sit-down spot has enjoyed during its debut. Housed in the former Steer and Stein location on Grand Avenue, the eatery is already proving to be a crowd favorite, adding yet another delicious stop to the Fair experience.
