Shows
The Delicious StoryHow to Give and Receive Constructive CriticismNews alert: I’m not perfect. Of course, this isn’t news, but it makes the contradiction of receiving criticism an odd struggle. Each of us knows we are works in progress, yet having others point that out can still be a hard pill to swallow. Call it constructive criticism, critique, or “gentle love,” we need to have an outside point of view to help us see ourselves with fresh eyes. I began this episode of The Delicious Story with the premise that criticism is a push-pull concept, a necessary jab to the psyche. With the...2022-03-1041 min
The Delicious StoryWhy we Gossip and How to Curb itPssst. Listen. Do you want to know a secret? Do you promise not to tell? Then lean in, and I’ll tell you one: for most people, the promise of information that is “hush-hush” is intoxicating. We want to know—almost need to know—details that seem to put us in the know or give us an edge in the world. We all gossip or have been in circles where gossip takes place. Gossip plays out in families, friends, work, even in politics and other national organizations. At its core gossip usually comes with darker undercurrents—emotion lace...2022-01-1935 min
The Delicious Story5 tips to keep the peace during family gatherings with Elena GreenbergHave you ever looked out on the world (listened to too much news) and wondered, "why can't people just get along?"We all want roughly the same things: a happy life, experience love and family, prosper and live. But we all seem ready to roll over others to achieve these goals, desperate in our feelings of lacking.Indeed, global peace and recognizing each other's shared needs and desires seem unimaginable. It is easy to feel hopeless and powerless in that reckoning because even many of our close relationships are at odds. Our country seems more at...2021-11-2937 min
The Delicious StoryHow To Overcome The Age Trap, Abbie Richie of Senior SavvyEven as baby boomers march by the millions into older age, redefining what it means to be old, we still struggle as a culture by limiting beliefs about seniors. And of all the fiction about aging, one devastating falsehood that seems to stick is that elders can't learn new things, including technology. In this episode of #thedeliciousstory, we chat with Senior Savvy's expert Abbie Richie who busts the myth that seniors can't learn tech. Abbie shares her inspiring story of helping seasoned adults everywhere frolic on the internet to connect and live productively in the new age of...2021-08-0128 min
The Delicious StoryHow to Publish Your Story, Stormi Lewis Story Sharing CoachEach person has a story to tell, but not everyone believes that – or even wants to tell theirs. However, others have the drive to share their story because of a particular experience, one that perhaps scarred them but left them with an important life lesson as well. If you seek to write your story but don't know where to begin or how to accomplish it, then this episode of The Delicious Story is for you. Here you'll meet Stormi Lewis, the published author of several books and a story-sharing coach. Stormi works as a muse and coach to he...2021-06-0337 min
The Delicious StoryMake Cooking A Party and Other Food Fun, Terrie KohlIndulge your senses and feel the splashy effervescence of life in this interview (#thedeliciousstory podcast #63) with chef Terrie Kohl. Based in Des Moines, Iowa’s largest metropolitan area, she is a one-woman culinary powerhouse that dazzles and delights, one great meal at a time!With a career in the food industry that spans decades, you’ll learn how Terrie took brave steps that earned her the credentials to become a top chef. She launched her business Country Club Market, where she offers outstanding catering and cooking classes. I promised you “cooking party” ideas at the opening, and Terr...2021-03-2730 min
The Delicious StoryFly A Bit Higher with Aviation History Under Your Wing, Dr. Janet BednarekSomething rare awaits you in this episode of The Delicious Story. We visit with aviation and urban historian Dr. Janet Bednarek, professor at the University of Dayton. She takes us on a journey covering the historical highlights of aviation after WWI, including the evolution of the airport system, and the role of barnstormers in igniting the public’s interest for flight. You’ll also learn the surprising impact the United States Postal Service played in aviation development. Prepare to be surprised and intrigued by the history that makes your travel by plane possible today. Seat backs up a...2021-01-1429 min
The Delicious StoryLife A Life of Rich Connection, Ginger JohnsonIn this episode of #thedeliciousstory, we visit with Ginger Johnson, expert connector, author, and coach, about how the world you live in is filled with the opportunity to connect, an adventure just waiting for you to grasp it. Her goal is nothing short of epic—to ignite your curiosity and help you find the thrill in looking out and seeing the possibilities when you engage with others. If you’re asking, “Why do I need a refresh on how to connect with others?” The answer is because connectivity done with purpose will enrich your relationships and even spill over to...2020-12-1031 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 60 History, Stories of Ghosts or Life Lessons? Interview With Stephanie HooverIn this episode of The Delicious Story we chat with Stephanie Hoover, history author and podcaster, who researches and writes about true crime stories and the spiritualism movement of the 19th century. Stephanie digs deep to unearth events and people of intrigue and reveal historical culture and ancestors who often acted upon their belief in the supernatural. With nine books to her credit and the ranking podcast “Stephanie Hoover Has That Story,” she has amassed impressive knowledge of our fascination with spiritualism. Her latest book, “Pretty Evil Pennsylvania,” comes out in 2021.How relevant is spiritualism in life tod...2020-11-1635 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 59 What Comes From Peru, Alexandra Borzo and David OlanoUntil recently, the only thing I knew of Peru was that Paddington the Curious Bear (with tattered hat, old suitcase and all) came from there. The beloved character of children’s books was made famous by British author Michael Bond, describing the bear that lived in “darkest Peru” before becoming a stowaway deposited at a railway station in London. My knowledge of the South American country all changed a few years ago when my daughter Alexandra moved there after falling in love with Lima, thereafter, making her home in Lima the South American city by the sea. She met a...2020-10-2230 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 58 TODD WHITE DRY FARM WINESIf you enjoy good food, particularly when it’s accompanied with good wine, then this episode of #thedeliciousstory is for you. This week I talk with Todd White of Dry Farm Wines about the benefits of natural wine, his journey in creating a business that sources the organically-grown varietals, and how nourishing your body with intention can be good for your wellbeing, too. At our house, wine goes hand-in-hand with the evening meal. We’ve spent years selecting, tasting and amassing a wine library of knowledge and preferences. And so, because I have an interest in wine, I was...2020-09-2628 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 57 Does That Feel Like Food To You Karen Viste-Sparkman Wildlife Biologist Neal Smith National Wildlife RefugeFood, particularly plant-based produce, is anything cultivated for the purpose of consumption. Or perhaps the real definition is broader. For instance, what about foragable plants that grow randomly in nature? Today on #thedeliciousstory, we chat with wildlife biologist Karen Viste-Sparkman about this more ancient path to food. As a city dweller, I count on obtaining food from the grocery store and mostly think of what I eat as coming from an agrarian model. However, long before the agricultural system developed, and well before the Europeans landed on the continent, Native Americans tended to...2020-09-0331 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 56 When Living In the Past Is Good For You Howard Dorre Plodding Through the PresidentsIf you’ve been inclined to feel a bit jaded about the world (or is just me?) then this episode of #thedeliciousstory will revive your hope in humanity. And how will you get to that happy state of mind? With a little help from the past, of course. For this interview, we visit with history blogger Howard Dorre, an unapologetic history enthusiast who is “plodding” his way through research into the presidents of the United States. As you listen, you’ll discover how he migrated from trudging along with a small audience to flying high and capturing the attentio...2020-08-2229 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 55 Why Feed Hunger? Michelle Book of The Food Bank of IowaThere is almost nothing more essential to our existence than food, and nothing as deeply personal for humans in particular. Think about it: we communicate through food, express culture via food, and forge connection when we eat together. Food binds us to the earth and reminds us that we are equals in our need for nutrition to survive. This week on the #thedeliciousstory, we visit with Michelle Book of The Food Bank of Iowa who explains the status of food insecurity in Iowa. In doing so, she also lays out the toll of human suffering due to hunger...2020-07-3127 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 54 How to Preserve What Matters, Interview with Courtney Work and Teri ErnstThe mention of stuff—from the clutter in the basement and the garage to the pictures and items we treasure but have so many of—can, for many of us, elicit stress as well as guilt. We have baggage about what we cart around in life. Teri Ernst and Courtney Work of Preserved LLC understand that burden well, and work with their clients to gently free them of it while keeping the best of what matters. In this episode of #thedeliciousstory, the two of them talk about the process of decluttering and how you, too, can feel pleasure in the spac...2020-07-0332 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 53 Style Your Life, Food Photographer Jena CarlinThis is an interview about how to make your food look good—and I mean REALLY good—in photographs. In this episode of The Delicious Story, we talk with accomplished food photographer Jena Carlin about the art and process of producing beautiful images of food and home. But her story serves up inspiration, too reminding each of us that we are the creative of our lives as well. Jena’s photos capture food such that you don’t even have to eat it to realize how delicious it really is. And a quick look at Jena Carlin Creative will ope...2020-06-2026 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 52 Becoming Wiser One Movie At A Time, Interview Don ShanahanThe world seemed difficult enough back in late April when I interviewed Don Shanahan of Every Movie Has a Lesson for #thedeliciousstory. But now in June things have gotten hotter still, so I offer you a reprieve from the news with this episode. Sit back and enjoy. Don believes that every film—epic or contained, big-budget or small—has lessons to impart about life. And once you meet Don, you’ll discover how he came to this belief. Teacher, spouse, and dad by day, Don has worked more than a decade at the craft as a movie reviewer and be...2020-06-0539 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 51 MARIE FIEBACH WHAT IS FOR DINNERWhat’s for dinner tonight? If you have NO idea, but you and a few people in your home want to know, then this episode of #thedeliciousstory is what can help. You’ll meet Marie Fiebach of Feed Your Family Tonight who helps people turn this kind of meal-planning angst into delicious and healthy food on the table. You know the drill if you’re in an active family—there are all those commitments after work and school that need to be done, plus things to do to prepare for the next day. Somehow, there is a meal that nee...2020-05-1925 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 50 NANCY DILTS FINALYou’ve probably heard the phrase, “You’re never fully dressed without a smile.” And you can appreciate the sentiment, because something does happen when you feel the corners of your mouth lift. It’s as though your “look” were, indeed, finally complete.And while you literally AREN’T dressed without your clothes, what you wear can also affect the way you feel just like how you feel can affect your look! Perhaps the idea is self-evident for some of you, but in this interview with Nancy Dilts on #thedeliciousstory, I found this connection fascinating: it turns out the garments...2020-05-0830 min
The Delicious Storytds 49 shlomo freund free financial self podcast finalThe variety of subjects covered in this week’s episode of The Delicious Story is vast, because we talked about living and investing like a nomad—that’s “21st century-style.” We also talked about the aspects of being a world traveler, an expat and an entrepreneur on a borderless planet, and eating a paleo diet a smidge on the kosher side of things, too.Whew! It’s a ruckus interview with Shlomo Freund of Free Financial Self, who is a financial planner for the expats and nomads (and those who aspire to be). As I write this post, I revi...2020-04-2335 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 48 Alan Koslow A Man of IntrigueYou know those infomercials that keep upping the ante over the course of their pitch? You’ve heard the phrase, “But wait, there’s more!” Interestingly, they do keep adding stuff on in a real way, and the trained watcher will know to wait until the end of the ad to order.The same limerick of “wait, there’s more” easily applies with today’s guest, Dr. Alan Koslow, on this episode of The Delicious Story. As you listen, you’ll get:A peek into what it’s like to be a physician on the frontlines during natural disaste...2020-04-1034 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 47 The Automat by Hopper Des Moines Art Center Laura BurkhalterInterview with Des Moines Art Center’s Curator Laura BurkhalterThese days, a bit of Edward Hopper seems to speak volumes. The American painter is best known for depicting stark night scenes with people set apart from each other in solitude.Social distancing aside, take note and take heart for a treat. This week on The Delicious Story, you’ll meet curator Laura Burkhalter of The Des Moines Art Center and enjoy an audio tour of one of Hopper’s most celebrated paintings, The Automat.A WALK INSIDE THE PAINTINGDavid and I are pr...2020-03-2429 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 46 How Simple Helps. Interview With Erin Port of Simple Purposeful LivingAre you one of those people who overthinks and overstresses about any number of things going on in your life? While you dive into obsessing, it gets pretty noisy in your head, doesn’t it? Maybe you even feel like you’re all alone. Except…you’re not alone. You have kids, activities, a job, and so much more going on. Maybe TOO much going on.Can you relate? If yes, take a moment to breathe and get ready to meet Erin Port of Simple Purposeful Living on this week’s episode of The Delicious Story. Not only w...2020-03-0928 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 45 Why Women Thrive Best In Women Network Groups Interview With Janet HustonWhen you hear the word “networking,” what comes to mind? If it’s a speed-dating-like frenzy where everyone seems to be out for themselves, it’s understandable if you don’t find that appealing. But what if you, a woman, were part of a group of women who offer encouragement and ideas? What if you belonged to this women-only group that really “gets” you because they’re in the same boat? That starts to sound a little better, doesn’t it? I’ll dive into a real-world example of such a group in a moment and explore why you’ll benefit f...2020-02-2531 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 44 Why You Should Care About Your Urban Farm Neighbor, Monika Owczarski of Sweet Tooth FarmIf you have an urban farmer nearby, then you’re lucky indeed. After speaking with Monika Owczarski of The Sweet Tooth Farm, based here in the Riverbend Neighborhood of Des Moines, Iowa, I learned a great deal about urban farming and its contributions to the community. In this episode of TDS, you may be surprised to discover Monika’s approach to the venture and why an urban farm located near where you live can be the best neighbor you’ll ever want. I considered the work of urban farming as something “new,” having learned of Monika and her work b...2020-02-1429 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 43 THE DINNER SISTERS FINALThere was a time that I aspired to be a good cook. I poured over cookbooks and food magazines with the best of intentions, genuinely willing to be adventurous (and determined to be talented) in the kitchen. But the idea of it stopped at the perusing phase. And, ultimately, I relinquished the kitchen to my husband for our general survival. It’s not that I can’t cook, it’s that I can’t cook well—at least, not consistently so. I reach too high attempting the Ina Garten level and turn out to be inefficient with sketchy results. B...2020-01-1728 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 42 When the Food Must Wow Interview with Cyd Koehn #1 CatererAs someone who can’t serve a meal for two to the table successfully, I’m in constant awe of those who deliver delicious spreads for larger gatherings, especially at catered events. This awe was the first of many lures that made speaking with Cyd Koehn of Cyd’s Catering on #thedeliciousstory especially fine this week. Cyd has a remarkable pedigree of experience for what it takes to create the best dining experience for any event. She offers essential tips in this interview that you’ll need if you’re planning on hiring a caterer in your future. 2019-10-1530 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 41 THE FIRST DECISION TO MAKE BEFORE ANY EVENT INTERVIEW WITH SHANA DAVISONOrchestrating an event—including anything from a small gathering to a major catered affair—is similar to writing a novel. You, the organizer, are crafting a story that unfolds with a clear beginning, middle and end…plus some glue in between to help your chapters sing. If you want your event to be a success, there is one decision you must make first before you proceed to craft your event story: know your “who.” I say this with ABSOLUTE confidence because I have a trail of event failure in my past to prove this single point out. What, exactly, d...2019-10-0931 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 40 THE BEST GIFT TO GIVE YOUR BODY INTERVIEW WITH RACHEL SCHOLTEN KNEELING CAT PILATESRight this moment, sit or stand up as straight as you can and reach your arms up to the sky—and then, reach a bit further. Feels good, doesn’t it?Now, as you take a deep breath and exhale, let me explain how Pilates, cats and paella are all connected in this week’s episode of #thedeliciousstory. In this interview we talk with Pilates Coach Rachel Scholten, who shares stories of how these seemingly-disparate subjects come together in her life full of health, flavor and furry friends. Most importantly, we learn about the significant benefits of str...2019-10-0130 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 39 THE BIGGEST TRAVEL MISTAKE YOU DON'T WANT TO MAKE INTERVIEW WITH TRAVEL ADVISER CHRIS SLACKYou want a vacation. No. You need a vacation—a break from your daily routines, and the opportunity to step out and explore beyond the borders of your everyday life. But do you know what it is you seek in your journey? In this week’s episode of #thedeliciousstory, we talk with travel blogger and trip adviser Chris Slack of Wandering Feathers about how to find your travel purpose and the perfect destination by way of finding your travel self. First up, we visit about Chris’s beautiful blog filled with lush photographs and details of places such as Sou...2019-09-2427 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 38 WHAT A SUGAR COOKIE CAN TEACH YOU ABOUT ONE SWEET LIFE INTERVIEW WITH BRITTNEY HASKINSAs a child, Brittney Haskins realized she enjoyed baking. She describes with fondness the time spent with her mother in the kitchen, an experience which became significant to her life. And somehow, between the sugar, flour and eggs, Brittney also found her tenacity—not just to bake but to do so with pure joy. Today on the #thedeliciousstory, you’ll learn the invigorating backdrop of how this young woman turned talent, skill and passion into a successful business, and transformed the art of decorated sugar cookies (and pies!) into one sweet life. As Brittney says, baking is in her...2019-09-1731 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 37 Whimsical Wine Trailer Nikki SchneiderIt’s a story sure to spark your imagination (and perhaps inspiration), because that’s what Nikki Schneider’s The Whimsical Wine Trailer is all about. This week on #thedeliciousstory, we discover what happens when a visionary entrepreneur turns an idea into the rolling reality of a business. We begin by learning the hoops and logistical issues Nikki navigated on her way to establishing a mobile wine bar. Although family and friends were supportive, there were skeptics—but Nikki explains how she kept to her goal and tapped her personality to turn obstacles into achievable challenges. Now, two year...2019-09-1026 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 36 How to LOVE your kitchen on a budget interview with Amanda RiordanMost of us don’t get the kitchen of our dreams, but instead, one we’ve inherited. That also goes for some of the stuff that’s housed within it. For example, there’s that fryer you received as a gift, or the rice maker you thought you really needed, and the toaster oven that doesn’t get used enough given the plot of counter space it takes up.This week on #thedeliciousstory, I talk with Amanda Riordan of Mise en Place Kitchen Organization and Menu Planning about how to turn the inefficient kitchen around without the expense of a huge...2019-09-0131 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 35 MEMORIES OF SALOOS INDIA AT THE DES MOINES FARMERS MARKET WITH SALOO SADIQ AND AISHA SYEDThis week on #thedeliciousstory we head back in time to visit the Des Moines Farmer’s Market about a decade ago and one of its most famous merchants. Saloo’s India was a stalwart operation at the Farmer’s Market for years, run by popular favorites Saloo Sadiq and her daughter Aisha. Since 1976 the market has been a feature of downtown weekend life, and Saloo’s was a staple—touting 30 years in operation until she retired in 2018.This interview took place circa 2010 when Saloo had already cleared more than 20 years of business, selling her signature recipes of Indian dishes. Du...2019-08-2434 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 34 HOW TO TURN WHATS FOR DINNER INTO YUM ANDREA LOVEWhat would you do if you opened the fridge and dinner was right there waiting for you? For many busy families, couples on the go, and singles who don’t have the time or inclination to cook a meal for one, this solution would be eagerly welcomed. We have migrated to food on demand from many venues. Ingredients for dishes come mailed to our door, groceries can be delivered, and the ability to have food delivered from ANY restaurant has saved us from a life of pizza delivery. But what about affordable and healthy food you ca...2019-08-1530 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 33 TIM DIEBEL A GROUNDED LEAP OF FAITH AND A MEMORABLE MEAL OF HARVESTI admire those who make significant turns in their life and take on new adventures. Case in point: with the gauntlet of “new mind” thrust before them, Tim Diebel and his wife, Lori, made a thrilling and extraordinary pivot after years of service to the community to start in a new field (pun intended). You’ll learn about their experiences and the Taproot Garden in this week’s episode of #thedeliciousstory.After 30+ years , Tim who was a pastor, and Lori who was an educator, turned the notion of retirement on its ear and dived into the unknown as agrar...2019-07-3132 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 32 TIFFANY MAUCH PET CAREGIVER SERVICES AND LIFE AS A SLOW COOKERAs an NPR addict, I love that Tiffany Mauch’s “eureka” moment was inspired by something she heard on public radio. Of course, her vision for becoming a pet caregiver really began further back, with years of passion for animals along with study and work in the field. The exciting part about the path she later chose is that she realized a need that many pet owners were clamoring for and was able to step up to serve what has become a growing business. You’ll love hearing Tiffany’s backstory and learning more about her services for furry family members. 2019-07-2230 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 31 ANGELA WILLIAMS JACKSON THE PERFECT FRAME THE PERFECT MEALI opened by asking her if she dreams about matting and framing in her sleep. Angela Williams Jackson of The Great Frame Up in West Des Moines claims her sleep is unencumbered, but admits to an occupational tick that surfaces at events like the Des Moines Art’s Festival. You’ll want to hear Angela explain the phenomenon that takes over in the art booths at these events. This week on #thedeliciousstory, we talk with Angela about the art of the perfect frame and the thrill of supporting artists, and finish up with celebrating a special octogenarian and a me...2019-07-1525 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 30 JULIA MAE HUNT BRAND PHOTOGRAPHER TALKS IMAGES AND MEANING AND AN IMPROMPTU MEMORABLE MEALI admit it—I get sucked into Instagram easily. I can scan through images at a dizzying pace and then twenty minutes later wonder where the time has gone. That’s how pictures work. They’re eye candy with bright colors and interesting compositions that draw me in. Plus, I like to ponder the backstory of the photos, too.And though it feels like it is happening at breakneck speed, I will stop and consider many of the images based on how they hit home.But speed of scroll aside, images are a marvel conveying messages that a...2019-07-0635 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 29 CAROL MARLOW MCGARVEY THE INSIDE STORY OF FEATURE WRITING AND FOOD JUDGINGThis week on #thedeliciousstory, we take a trip back to more robust times in the newspaper industry when The Des Moines Register was considered one of the leading (and Pulitzer Prize-winning) papers of the land. Carol Marlow McGarvey has been at the Register in recent decades and remembers those times well—and the transition to where we are today.It all began for her with a part-time job in circulation. She was incognito and a kid at the time, but listen in as Carol describes the details of her secret life, which was ultimately the impetus to becoming a jo...2019-06-3033 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 28 STEVEN NOAH THE WELL LIVED UNPLANNED LIFE AND A FUNJI FEAST REMEMBEREDSteve Noah has a resume with a list of accomplishments stretching across the globe, but he doesn’t place any stock in such a tally. I asked Steve, this week’s guest on #thedeliciousstory, what stages of his impressive work history were part of his “A plan.” This turned out to be a silly question, however, because as he explained some of the highlights developed from no plans at all. Also, he is the first to admit that his professional past is strewn with as many failures as successes—most of them developing organically. It was the busts which led to some of...2019-06-2231 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 27 DANI LIN SAYS ALOHA AND OFFERS A SIMPLE PATH TO EATING WELLShouldn’t eating be a fairly simple activity? These days, that doesn’t seem to be the case. Bring strangers together at the table, and you’ll probably discover that there are just as many dietary requirements as there are people gathered. I might be exaggerating, but not much. We live in a hyperconscious time when it comes to our relationship with food—just think paleo, keto, lactose intolerance, gluten-free, low salt, vegan, vegetarian…all of which is good when the focus is health, but bad if we’re trying to de-stress our lives. This week on #thedelic...2019-06-1428 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 26 RON BONANNO REMEMBERS HIS DAD AND BAMIE'S PIZZA ON DES MOINES' SOUTHSIDEWhat’s not to love about a friend you can count on, especially when they feed you delicious food? Long-standing restaurants become a friend in and of themselves, the friendly neighbors appreciated for the tasty comfort made to order. Those eateries remind us of our past, of times we took a hard-earned break to eat favorite dishes, and the familiar spaces where we celebrate milestone events in our lives. Family-owned restaurants are especially treasured for the heartfelt tenacity they serve up, too. This week on #thedelciousstory I speak with Ron Bonanno, son of Frank Bonanno (also known as Ba...2019-06-0732 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 25 ZACH ENGSTROM DEATH TAXES AND EATINGI admit that I have a romanticized view of the small town attorney. This is an image of someone who is part of the fabric of the community, with a mix of the wisdom of Atticus Finch from To Kill A Mockingbird blended with the worldly jazz-playing coolness of Paul Biegler of Anatomy of a Murder rolled up into one. Such a lawyer as that would require the older moniker of Esquire, which I think suits this week’s guest on #thedeliciousstory.Zach Engstrom Esq. is an estate attorney with Letsch Law Firm based in Grimes, Iowa. As he...2019-05-2833 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 24 BLANK PARK ZOO COMMISSARY OPEN CONSERVATION IS THE DISHWhere else can you go into the mists of a tropical deciduous rainforest, emerge into the expansive swath of African grasslands, and then minutes later climb the mountain ranges of Southwest China? If you said the Blank Park Zoo, then you’ve earned points which are good at their commissary, for maybe a piece of squash! This week on #thedeliciousstory, I visit with Jessie Lowry and John Krogmeier about the day-to-day feeding and care of the wild animals at Blank Park, and all the back-end food acquisition required to keep everyone healthy. Later in the interview, Jessie helps debunk some co...2019-05-1832 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 23 LISA KRUGER BARATTAS THE RICH HISTORY OF AN ITALIAN AMERICAN RESTAURANTThe Baratta’s commercials of the late 1990s were clever, homey vignettes of something that used to happen in the “olden” days. The scene opens with “us,” the ad viewers, looking toward someone leaning in, perhaps into a car window. And we learn that we’re lost on some side street of the south side of Des Moines, trying desperately to find 2320 S. Union Street. The next bit went just like it usually did when someone stopped a random stranger to ask for directions. We’re given a series of instructions: “turn this way and take that road, and then go to t...2019-05-1025 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 22 OLD ARCHIVE CHEVRE, A GOOD SPOUSE AND GOATSFirst, there was the cheese. I remember going to the Des Moines’ Farmers’ Market and sampling Lois Reichert’s cheeses in the summer of 2010. The experience remains a happy memory. It was a lovely Iowa farmer’s market morning as we walked about, aimlessly perusing the wares from one booth to another. We then came upon the Reichert’s Dairy Air booth. As we ate samples, I remember thinking the chevre was the best I’d ever tasted—creamy, with a fresh tang and a smooth texture that spread perfectly on a piece of toasted French bread. After that initial e...2019-05-0335 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 21 RICK HENDERSON ZEST JOY PATH TO LOWER BLOOD PRESSUREI remember the “olden” days at family dinners. When the meal was finished, we sat lingering over the remains of a bottle of wine discussing words and their definitions or history topics and the supposed “facts” of some point. Inevitably, a challenge of knowledge would arise, nerds would turn into competitors, and someone would go seek out the dictionary or encyclopedia to prove their point. If that sounds obnoxious, it only got more so once Google was in our hands. The phrase commonly heard was, “Let me Google that!” If the scenario sounds like a bunch of egos gone amuck...2019-04-2635 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 20 REBECCA OLKOWSKI BOOMSTER EXERCISE OPTIONSThe ability to make choices and act on them is a wonderful gift. Rebecca Forstadt Olkowski appreciates the flexibility of having options and has made the most of them in each chapter of her life. Professionally, Rebecca’s resume reads like an adventurer’s journal, featuring twists and turns and chronicling exciting opportunities she’s tried and mastered. Success alone isn’t the driver for Rebecca as she has kept her eyes forward to the next transition with her interests and passions in mind, too. More than a dozen years ago, Rebecca trailblazed her way into blogging and marketin...2019-04-1932 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 19 MARTIE MCNABB STORIES OF STUFF AND BROOKLYN ON WHEELSThis week on The Delicious Story, we find ourselves in a van named Brooklyn somewhere in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Our experience is a virtual one, but for Martie McNabb this is the real deal—the home where she spends her time while on the road in search of her next place to set up shop. Martie is also on a mission to support franchisees throughout the country by hosting Show & Tale events. You’ll learn more about the interesting twists and turns the led Martie to this point during the interview. Martie and I met by way...2019-04-1134 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 18 MARIAH JADE ART AND THE BORDERLESS COFFEE SHOPI first knew Mariah Jade to be an artist and a person who splits her time between Mexico and the States. I also knew she works at the The Great Frame Up in West Des Moines, providing framing services and assisting with social media outreach. One new detail I didn’t realize until we talked on The Delicious Story, however, is that Mariah is a quintessential fan of coffee shops. And the why behind it is one of many stories we learn about Mariah Jade in this episode.It turns out Mariah spends loads of time in coffee sh...2019-04-0529 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 17 SARAH BISIGNANO LEGACY OF LOVEI realize now that I was a bit giddy when I spoke with Sarah Bisignano about Bisignano’s Italian Salad Dressing & Marinade for The Delicious Story. In short, I’m a fan. It is a delicious salad dressing thanks to its tangy flavor with just the right mix of other seasonings to create a festive and zippy salad. My husband David and I have been buying Bisignano’s for years, of which my only lament had been the size of the bottle (a bit smaller than I’d like). But I paid a premium because it is just so good! 2019-03-2826 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 16 TAY NGUYEN AN AMERICAN REMEMBERS MEALS WITH BROTHERSIn a quantitative world where our measurements matter, we heed our numbers. Throughout a lifetime of extremely important life statistics—from test scores to weight, jobs worked, pets owned, meals eaten—we add up the lists to see what they say about our total. We are data-driven because we hope that in connecting the dots a deeper understanding of who we are will be revealed.This “need to know numbers” explains, in part, the popular DNA testing kits that are sold today. The urge to track an ancestor’s journey by distances traveled and challenges overcome can potentially broaden an...2019-03-2229 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 15 MARY BETH WIMS PHYSICAL THERAPY AND PASTA THERAPYThis week on The Delicious Story, we transition from terms such as “cranial therapy” and “myofascial techniques” to later talk about a charming, memorable meal involving pasta. Mary Beth Wims admits that her journey to becoming a physical therapist took twists and turns (much like our conversation), and yet it all worked out beautifully in the end. As our conversation unfolds, Mary Beth shares many highlights of her life adventure to date, which you’ll likely marvel at as I did while you listen to her story. Mary Beth’s experience in South Korea is particularly notable—you’ll see why in th...2019-03-1529 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 14 TAUFEEK SHAH LOLAS FINE HOT SAUCESIn this week’s episode, prepare to salivate. Every episode of The Delicious Story highlights food, but in this one you’ll be blown over by the rich description of flavors and superb recipe ideas shared by our guest Taufeek Shah of Lola’s Fine Hot Sauces. This conversation will spice up your life. How is that for a promise? My husband David and I first discovered Lola’s Fine Hot Sauces a few months ago. David had just been diagnosed with a heart condition and we were told to get on a low-salt heart healthy diet. We start...2019-03-0726 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 13 KELLY BOON LIVE A TASTY LIFE WITH CREATIVITYWhere do you let your creativity surface? Is it on canvas or through song? Do you like to decorate or write? Do you enjoy pulling together ingredients and creating a delicious dish? Do you consider yourself to be creative at all? This week on The Delicious Story I spoke with Kelly Boon who took us on a tour of CHAOS (Creativity, Humor, And Other Stuff), offering up ideas about the concept of creativity, and how important (and truly unavoidable) it is in life.Kelly is an artist, speaker and advocate of all things creative—with a go...2019-03-0126 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 12 DAN CURTIS FOOD OF FOND MEMORIESIn this episode of The Delicious Story, friend Dan Curtis takes us on a tour of daily life on his family’s farm near Lone Tree, Iowa during the 1940s. We glimpse the routines which comprised the never-ending requirements of labor, and savor the bounty of memorable meals shared together. Given Dan’s ability to weave story, you may almost be able to taste the many side dishes and roasted meats served each Sunday and envision your fork full of crusty fruit pie (crust made from lard, of course) that arrives for dessert. But more than food or m...2019-02-2229 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 11 GREG BORZO TALKS LOST RESTAURANTS CHICAGOIt's so easy to take for granted—and I have many, many times—the marvelous transaction that occurs at a restaurant. One presents money, and in exchange, someone prepares food to order and serves it to us for our enjoyment.The best of these restaurants are often family-owned and operated by people who devote an extraordinary amount of time to keep their businesses humming and their clients full and happy. Signature restaurants that stand the test of time become well-known friends in a community. They’re woven into the daily lives and long-standing memories of the inhabitants. It’s n...2019-02-1427 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 10 JANN FREED HOW TO SAGE WITH FLAVORHave you ever looked at old yearbooks—for me, that would be from 1940s or 1950s—and thought, “Wow! Those young people look so old!” As a teen in the 1970s, I remember looking at the pictures of people from the middle of the century and thinking that they looked older than I considered myself at the time. In fact, older people in images from those decades appeared unfathomably old to my young set of eyes. Such is the plight of any generation we harken from. We look at future ages and can’t imagine them, and we marvel...2019-02-0828 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 9 Deb Brown Real Dish About Small TownsIn this episode of The Delicious Story, I visit with Deb Brown of saveyour.town about the big things happening in small towns today.Right off, Deb provided compelling information about the state of small-town U.S.A. that dispelled misconceptions I had about what is worthwhile and possible in small communities. Deb’s news is that things are actually exciting in small towns, there are viable opportunities for development, and we should all care about supporting small towns—as residents and visitors alike. Deb grew up on a farm outside of Geneva, Iowa, population 141, where her first entr...2019-02-0127 min
The Delicious StoryTDS8 CLAUDIA SCHABEL ALWAYS SERVE DIVERSITYIn this week’s episode of The Delicious Story, we talked to coach, speaker and diversity expert Claudia Schabel of Schabel Solutions. Based in Des Moines, Iowa, for over two decades Schabel has consulted companies and organizations in the areas of diversity, equity, inclusion, and cultural competency.Claudia’s country of origin is Brazil, so naturally, I asked her to indulge us with her experiences of traditional Brazilian BBQ. Just listening to her fond memories of a typical family gathering with meats sizzling on the grill in the background was mouth watering. If you’re a fan of beans...2019-01-2528 min
The Delicious StoryTDS7 Kat Robinson Best of Eating in ArkansasShe mentioned Mayberry R.F.D. at some point in our conversation, and in full disclosure, when I think of Arkansas I use to assume it was a state much like that show of the 1950s (actually, the show was supposed to have been set in North Carolina), made up of small and quiet communities residing in times of the past. In this TDS podcast, Kat Robinson—prolific author, speaker, and proud Arkansonian—dispels the myth that Arkansas is in any way languishing. In fact, in a flurry if rich information, Kat describes the Arkansas of today as a th...2019-01-1829 min
The Delicious StoryTDS 6 JENNY ZINK WOMEN ON ADVENTURESWelcome to the first episode of The Delicious Story for 2019!!! I’m on a mission to bring you interesting people and memorable meal stories all year. Look for new guests and tasty stories filled with food facts and recipes each Thursday. In the spirit of new beginnings as I commit to the adventure of podcasting, The Delicious Story launches with Jenny Zink, who is the founder of Women On Adventures. Jenny shares the story of how she started WOA out of her desire to infuse adventures into life—and ended up finding a tribe of others who hunger for...2019-01-1024 min
The Delicious StoryTDS #5 INTERVIEW WITH FOOD BLOGGER SARAH TOPAR, PIE AND THEN SOMEIn this episode, we begin where the interview ended. My guest, Sarah Topar, is a food blogger and friend who sat down with me over lunch at a local Ecuadorian restaurant in Des Moines, Iowa, called Mi Patria. We talked about her favorite foods, recipes, and the essence of what sharing food means. And just as we finished up our conversation, Sara mentioned her little pleasure of enjoying microwaved marshmallows. Thirty seconds later, the result is an instant, gooey dessert. PIZZA AND NEW HAVEN“I find it weird that pizza is such a significant thing in Con...2018-10-0422 min
The Delicious StoryTDS #4 Breaking Bread with Kristie BurnsMary Bailey sums up its power in her line from “It’s A Wonderful Life.” The Martini family is leaving the Potter slum for the dream-come-true home of their own. She gives them the loaf of bread and begins the blessing, “Bread so that you may never know hunger…”And there it is, just that substantial—the food that finishes out a meal so that we feel the full sense of bounty eating. In this episode of The Delicious Story, we visit with Kristie Burns who wears many professional hats, including teacher, naturopathic, photographer and bread connoisseur. We’ll wrap ourselve...2018-02-1328 minThe Delicious StoryTDS#3 Kristen Hall, attorney/mediator talks peace at the table.Peace at the Holiday Table—and Cookies, Too!Kristen is an unconventional attorney in that she mediates amicable resolutions. That’s right. The goal is to walk away not only with a decision, but also with a sense of peace about the outcome. For Kristen and her clients, it’s not about winning.Because of Kristen’s unique expertise in achieving harmony, I thought it would be interesting to hear from her about how to stay feeling good while together at the table.Kristen shares a wonderful holiday story of her own, plus a cookie r...2017-12-2916 minThe Delicious StoryThe Man About Eating, Oliver BorzoWhat does a Mom do to get face-time with her busy, grown son? Interview him for a podcast, of course. Please join me at The Delicious Story as Oliver Borzo and I take a tour of some of the eateries he has encountered as he travels for work across the United States. First we’ll head to Savannah, Georgia for some homestyle cooking (which he certainly never got from me). Then, we’ll sample a Pennsylvania-style “meat-esk” dish called Scrapple, and finish up on the East Coast talking pizzas unique to communities there. Did I mention Oliver is funny? Yep. Plus, Ol...2017-12-0421 minThe Delicious StoryA Taste For Adventure. Sara Middleton Downing TDS#1What choices in life have you made that stretched you beyond your comfort zone? It’s hard to break from routine but when we do doors open to new opportunity. This FIRST episode of The Delicious Story is both an enchanting look at one woman’s adventure, and her reflections on how memorable meals have added flavor to her life. I met Sara Middleton Downing after I sent out an invitation on social media asking for guests. Her story will take you to the far corners of South America AND provide rich details of great dining experiences. I’d tell...2017-11-1425 min