Live at the Fair: Stories from the Porch

In the second of three “LIVE at the Fair” episodes, Max and Amy bring the Iowa State Fair Podcast to the porch of the Fair’s Administration Building for another lively day of conversations. They open with Iowa State Fair Board President Curtis Claeys and the beloved Bill Riley Jr. of the Bill Riley Talent Search, who share stories about fair traditions, the importance of county fairs as the foundation for the big show in Des Moines, and the unique “Iowa nice” spirit that shapes the fair experience. From tales of commemorative benches to the role of agriculture in the Fair Board’s work, their segment captures the mix of history, community, and passion that fuels the event year after year.

The episode continues with 15-year-old Lydia, a public safety helper and Barksdale’s Cookies cashier, whose energy and ambition shine as she talks about her summer job, love of meeting new people, and dream of becoming a police officer. Then, Blue Ribbon Foundation Executive Director Peter Cownie explains how the Foundation raises millions to preserve and improve the fairgrounds, shares his personal connection to the Fair, and teases future projects, including a new Ag Learning Center. His conversation highlights how philanthropy, planning, and community support keep the Fair vibrant and evolving.

Closing out the show, Grant Campbell and Brandon Schroeder bring the flavor—literally—sharing stories from Campbell’s Concessions and The Depot. As a fifth-generation concessionaire, Campbell reflects on family tradition, new menu hits like pickle pizza, the challenges of staffing 700 workers, and the camaraderie among vendors. From celebrity visits to the logistics of moving semi-loads of corn dogs, their stories remind listeners that behind every food stand is a team, a history, and a deep pride in serving fairgoers. It’s another episode packed with the people, flavors, and heart that make the Iowa State Fair more than just an event—it’s an Iowa institution.