Iowa’s rich literary culture has produced Pulitzer Prize winners and best-selling authors. Here are five Iowa authors and a book from each to read.
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LGBTQ Iowans are fleeing the state: ‘It progressively got worse’
As lawmakers restrict the rights of LGBTQ Iowans, more and more are leaving in favor of states with friendlier laws, with over half saying they’ve at least considered it.
WATCH: Iowa has FASTEST growing cancer rate in America. Help us learn why (PT 3) – Cornhole Champions #32
Iowa faces a devastating cancer crisis, with the fastest growing rate of new cancers in the nation hitting close to home.
On this episode of Cornhole Champions, Zachary Oren Smith, Amie Rivers, and Liz Fleming talk about a new investigation into Iowa’s cancer problem, sharing personal stories of loss and exploring potential causes from radon exposure to farming practices. Plus, why Governor Reynolds’ $1 million proposal is being called a “mouse fart.”
Toss some bags at Congress’ cuts to public media… the money powering Iowa’s federal elections… And why we’re talking about cancer.
Cornhole Champions is a weekly podcast powered by Iowa Starting Line. This podcast is produced by me and edited by Rebecca Steinberg. Our music is by Avery Mossman, and our show art is from Desirée Tapia.
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– PocketCasts – https://pca.st/74atty1j
… and everywhere you listen to podcasts
*SHOW RUNDOWN:*
0:00 – Launching Major Investigation: Iowa’s Cancer Crisis
1:18 – Amy’s Heartbreaking Story: Losing Grandfather & Mom to Cancer
1:57 – What is Radon? Iowa’s Invisible Killer Explained
2:52 – Liz’s Tragic Loss: Best Friend Katie’s 395-Day Battle
4:38 – “It’s Creeping Into Young People’s Lives” – Cancer Stories
6:00 – Why Iowa Has America’s Fastest Growing Cancer Rate
8:43 – Reynolds’ $1 Million “Solution” Called “Mouse Fart”
9:43 – How University Funding Cuts Are Hurting Cancer Research
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8 classic roadside diners in Iowa that are worth a detour
Nothing says comfort food quite like a diner, and Iowa has some of the best of these interstate oases. Here’s a list of diners in Iowa worth a visit.
What are some cancer screening and treatment options in Iowa?
Finding the right options for cancer screenings and treatment can be overwhelming. But Iowa has more options than you might expect. We’ve assembled some resources to help.
What is behind Iowa’s cancer crisis?
Iowa has the second-highest cancer rate in the US, and the numbers keep climbing. What’s driving these cases?
Free or low-cost resources for those facing cancer in Iowa
From cancer support groups in Iowa, to financial assistance for cancer patients, to wig donations and more, here are some places to start. Many of these places offer services at no charge.
5 of the biggest true crime cases in Iowa history
Iowa has been home to many devastating crimes over the years. Here are a few of the biggest true crime cases in IA history.
This week’s Iowa layoffs and more working news you can use
This week's working news you can use: Job Corps cuts hurt Iowa's employment: Despite its success, Ottumwa Job Corps—which offers free education and vocational training for at-risk youth ages 16 to 24—is among the 99 programs the Trump Administration is shutting down....
Iowa becomes first state to cut transgender civil rights protections
A new Iowa law removing the civil rights of transgender Iowans goes into effect today. Hear from some of the Iowans targeted by the bill. Iowa made history today as the first state to actively remove a previously protected class from its civil rights law, targeting...
Iowa constitutional law professor launches third bid against GOP Congresswoman
Christina Bohannan is taking another shot at unseating embattled US Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, after losing by just 799 votes in 2024. Iowa law professor Christina Bohannan wants another rematch in 2026. She lost to US Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks in 2024 in a...
Learn about 10 innovators & inventors from Iowa
There are several amazing innovators and inventors from Iowa, some of whom may surprise you. Here are 10 you need to know.
WATCH: Trump cuts Iowa cancer and defense research funding (Part 3) – Cornhole Champions #27
The Trump Administration has terminated over 1,600 research grants nationwide, cutting more than $1.5 billion in federal funding and leaving Iowa’s research universities scrambling to save critical projects.
On this episode of Cornhole Champions, Zachary Oren Smith, Amy Rivers, and Avery Staker talk about how these massive cuts are devastating Iowa’s scientific infrastructure.
Cornhole Champions is a weekly podcast powered by Iowa Starting Line with music by Avery Mossman and show art by Desirée Tapia. We are a proud member of the Iowa Writers Collaborative.
*LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE TO CORNHOLE CHAMPIONS:*
– YouTube – https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2LsUFhizO07jdk5Wav4mOT7tArltF8z5&si=FryZd7N7tG5tJ5Ju
– Substack – https://cornholechampions.substack.com/
– Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cornhole-champions-podcast/id1779497714
– Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/5rzNpiA4IwgLmxbyrhETY6?si=6c4a527fa9ad4f64
– PocketCasts – https://pca.st/74atty1j
… and everywhere you listen to podcasts
*SHOW RUNDOWN:*
00:30 – Cancer Research Gets the Axe – University of Iowa Professor’s Pancreatic Cancer Study Terminated
01:30 – “Diverse” Triggers Grant Termination – How One Word Killed Research Grant
02:30 – Foreign Disinformation Studies Cut – $1.7 Million Grant Protecting Americans Canceled
04:30 – Innovation Infrastructure Under Attack – Why R&D Labs Can’t Just “Turn Back On”
06:30 – America’s Scientific Brain Drain – Scientists Leaving as US
*FOLLOW ZACHARY OREN SMITH ON SOCIAL MEDIA:*
– Twitter – https://x.com/zacharyos
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– Bluesky – https://bsky.app/profile/zacharyos.bsky.social
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*FOLLOW IOWA STARTING LINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA:*
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7 Iowa zipline adventures for every thrill level
Iowa’s many ziplines offer experiences ranging from heart-pumping to relaxing. Discover the Iowa zipline best suited for your preferred thrill level.
Critics warn of ‘money laundering’ as Iowa expands school voucher program
Iowans have a right to know how their taxpayer dollars are being used—but when it comes to the state's private school voucher program, that’s not what’s happening. Iowa’s state auditor and others say the program has no oversight into how public funds are spent—and it...
Find your passion at Drake University summer camps
Discover your passion at Drake University’s 2025 summer camps! From voice training to business innovation, find the perfect program for high schoolers.
Iowa students will have to watch inaccurate video thanks to Republican lawmakers
Iowa lawmakers have passed a bill that will make students watch a medically inaccurate video on fetal development. A pregnancy education bill, Senate File 175 (SF175), has passed both houses of the Iowa Legislature and is awaiting Gov. Kim Reynolds’ signature. If...
Mouse droppings, ants, expired food found at these Iowa restaurants
by Clark Kauffman, Iowa Capital Dispatch May 21, 2025 Mouse droppings, ants and expired food found after Iowa restaurant inspections. State, city and county inspectors have cited Iowa restaurants and stores for hundreds of food-safety violations during the past five...
15 fascinating facts about Iowa-born John Wayne on his birthday
Discover 15 fun facts about Iowa’s Western treasure, the one and only John Wayne.
Iowa’s student botanists catalog and conserve plants at Macbride
The Macbride Nature Recreation Area’s Vascular Plant Inventory Project catalogs plant species, aiding conservation and offering hands-on student experience.
Democrat Rob Sand launches 2026 bid for Iowa Governor
Iowa’s lone statewide Democrat has launched his bid for governor. He says state government isn't working, and it's time to rotate the crops. Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand formally launched his campaign for governor on Monday, positioning himself as a Democrat who can...
Millennials, here’s the biggest Iowa news story from the year you were born
Millennials know best that there’s never a dull moment in Iowa. Check out these 16 huge news stories from the years this generation hit the scene.
Report: Majority of pregnancy-related deaths in Iowa could have been prevented
A newly released report found that 95% of pregnancy-related deaths in Iowa were preventable, and those deaths disproportionately affected women who are Hispanic and Black and on Medicaid.
Why the floodgates are open to help the wealthiest Iowans pay for their private education
Iowa Republican lawmakers have passed a bill to boost K-12 education funding by 2%—not nearly enough to keep pace with what’s needed for a once-thriving public school system. Meanwhile, Governor Kim Reynold’s budget includes a 44% increase for vouchers. “My kids go to...
What does Kilmar Abrego Garcia have to do with Iowa immigrants?
I saw a few "Free Kilmar" signs at the latest protest I covered this weekend, and for good reason: Folks are worried about what it means that the Trump administration is deporting people directly to a foreign torture prison with the flimsiest justification, and with...
8 activists from Iowa who changed the game
Iowa has a rich history of activism that dates back centuries. Check out these eight heroes who have fought for all types of underrepresented groups.
15 best indie bookstores in Iowa
Check out these independent bookstores in Iowa where you can cozy up and find your next great read.
Say what? 10 Iowa sayings & slang, explained
Each state has its own vernacular. Here’s a guide to sayings and slang that are uniquely Iowan.
5 best bang-for-your-buck steakhouses in Northeast Iowa
The Cedar Valley area is home to some seriously tasty steakhouses that won’t break the bank. Check out these five options for a celebration or just a fun night.
It’s container garden season, Iowans! Here’s what to know
Container gardening in Iowa is a great option for those with limited space who still want to grow their own vegetables and flowers at home.