Best Maxwell Schaeffer Podcasts (2025)

1
Cardboard Gold: What I Learned From My Sons, Alex and Jon, About the Wild World of Sports Card Collecting 50:04

3d ago50:04

50:04

On this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, I sit down with my sons, Alex and Jon Schaeffer, for a deep, and surprisingly eye-opening, conversation about the world of modern-day card collecting. What started as a fun pastime has evolved into a booming, multi-billion-dollar global industry, blending hobby, business, and nostalgia into one frenzied…

1
Healing Under Pressure: Dr. Chris LoRang on Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy 36:26

24d ago36:26

36:26

On this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, I sit down with Dr. Chris LoRang of Capital Health to dive deep—literally and figuratively—into the world of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). Known for his integrative approach to care, Dr. LoRang breaks down what this advanced healing modality really is, how it works, and why it's making waves in both…

1
Reviving a 70 Year-Old Little League: Ross Edwards' Call to Action 18:43

1M ago18:43

18:43

In this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with Ross Edwards, a passionate coach and community leader helping breathe new life into the Raccoon Valley Little League—just as the organization celebrates its 70th year. Ross shares his own journey through the league, starting as a three-year-old in T-ball, forging friendships that …

1
Weary Ramblers: Harmony, Heart & Driftwood Dreams 35:47

1M ago35:47

35:47

In this inspiring episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, I sit down with the talented duo behind the Americana band Weary Ramblers—multi-instrumentalist Kathryn Fox and Iowa folk veteran Chad Elliott—for a heartfelt and revealing conversation on music, risk-taking, and creative connection. We catch them mid-process at Golden Bear Records, where the …

1
Born to Mix: DJ Jimmy Jim’s 48 Year Spin 37:04

2M ago37:04

37:04

In this electrifying episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, I sit down with Iowa DJ legend Jim Bollard—better known across dance floors and DJ booths as DJ Jimmy Jim. For nearly five decades, Jim has been mixing beats, reading crowds, and energizing dance floors, from the disco days of the Joker Lounge in the late ‘70s to today’s hottest college clu…

1
From Camaros to Commercial Real Estate: The Richard Hurd Story 32:07

2M ago32:07

32:07

In this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, I sit down with Richard Hurd, a man whose black-and-white “Hurd” commercial real estate signs have become fixtures around town—but whose personal story is far more colorful than most realize. A self-made entrepreneur with deep roots in Des Moines’ south side, he walks us through a journey that begins wi…

1
Outro Isn’t the End: Mike Pace Stars in a Story That Hits Home 34:05

2M ago34:05

34:05

In this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, longtime Iowa broadcaster Mike Pace joins me to reflect on a rich, winding journey through radio, television, voiceover work, and now—independent film. Known to many for his work on the Iowa Lottery’s “Spin the Wheel” game show and years of broadcasting in Des Moines, Mike opens up about his latest role…

1
In the Hands of the Living: Lanae Strovers' Unexpected Calling To The Funeral Business 39:13

2M ago39:13

39:13

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, I sit down with Lanae Strovers, a trailblazing funeral director and founder of The Final Salute, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring unclaimed veterans with proper burials. Lanae shares the unlikely and emotional journey that led her into the world of funeral service—starting …

1
What Drives a Man to Make Putters in Iowa? Jared Doerfler Explains 23:15

3M ago23:15

23:15

In this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, host Maxwell sits down with Jared Doerfler, the founder of Hanna Golf, a rising Iowa-based manufacturing company that specializes in custom milled putters. Jared’s story is a remarkable journey of risk, resilience, and craftsmanship—proving that even the wildest ideas can take root and flourish in the h…

1
The Age of Authenticity: Justin Brady about Podcasts, Creativity, PR, and the Future of AI 38:17

3M ago38:17

38:17

In this insightful episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, host Maxwell welcomes Justin Brady—creator and host of The Iowa Podcast and founder of the PR firm Cultivate Strategies—for a wide-ranging, caffeinated conversation about the evolving landscape of streaming audio, digital content strategy, authenticity in branding, and the increasingly comple…

1
Singer-Songwriter Abbie Sawyer on Creativity, Ritual, and Her Most Intimate Album Yet 32:13

3M ago32:13

32:13

In this rich and heartfelt episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with singer-songwriter Abbie Sawyer for a deep and wide-ranging conversation about creativity, songwriting, motherhood, and the power of being present in the artistic process. Known for her soulful vocals and layered songwriting, Abbie opens up about the inspirations…

1
The Bowtie Behind the Camera: Chris Maharry’s Approach to People and Photography 34:02

4M ago34:02

34:02

On this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with renowned Iowa photographer Chris Maharry for an engaging conversation about his 33-year career capturing moments, personalities, and events across the state. From shooting his first wedding as a high school junior to becoming one of the most sought-after photographers in Des Moine…

1
The Weekend Pour: Iowa Stage Theatre Company's Next Act 30:50

4M ago30:50

30:50

On this special edition of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, The Weekend Pour, Maxwell sits down with three key leaders from Iowa Stage Theatre Company: Artistic Producers Davida Williams and Alex Wendel, along with Development Director Dove Haase. Together, they dive into the company's ongoing evolution, the triumphs and challenges of the past year, and …

1
From Gridiron to Greatness: David Bush on Mindset, Motivation, and Living an Extraordinary Life 37:45

4M ago37:45

37:45

In this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, I sit down with former Iowa Barnstormer, life coach, and author David Bush for an inspiring conversation about breaking through barriers and living an extraordinary life. From his days on the football field to his journey into business, coaching, and personal development, David shares powerful insights …

1
Jason Walsmith on Music, Storytelling, and Saying Yes: The Journey of an Iowa Songwriter 29:56

4M ago29:56

29:56

In this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, we sit down with the incomparable Jason Walsmith—singer-songwriter, storyteller, and a founding member of The Nadas. With three decades in the Iowa music scene, Jason shares his journey navigating the ever-changing landscape of independent music, from his early days as a young folk-rock musician to find…

1
Mystery and Mastery: Joseph LeValley's Path to Fiction 34:40

4M ago34:40

34:40

Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, recently welcomed Joseph LeValley, a former journalist turned award-winning mystery/thriller author, for a fascinating conversation about his journey into fiction writing. LeValley, who spent seven years as a crime reporter, recounted how his first book idea came to him while covering a murder trial. Though the defendant …

1
Scott Long: Comedy Road Warrior 48:01

4M ago48:01

48:01

In a lively and humorous episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with Iowa-born comedian Scott Long to discuss his unique and often unpredictable career in stand-up comedy. From performing for Amish communities to corporate gigs and fundraisers, Scott shares his experiences with candid storytelling and self-deprecating wit, making f…

1
Life After the News: Kevin Cooney on Retirement, Reinvention, and Riding Into the Future 42:28

5M ago42:28

42:28

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, longtime broadcaster Maxwell sits down with the legendary retired KCCI-TV news anchor, Kevin Cooney. With a career spanning decades in Iowa’s media landscape, Kevin shares what life has been like since stepping away from the anchor desk—spoiler alert: it involves a lot of biking, grandkids, and new crea…

1
The Weekend Pour: Inside the Mission of Food Bank of Iowa 15:54

5M ago15:54

15:54

On "The Weekend Pour", a special edition of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with Annette Hacker, Vice President of Strategy and Communications at the Food Bank of Iowa, for an enlightening conversation about food insecurity and the crucial work being done to combat hunger across the state. Annette provides an eye-opening look into the …

1
Behind the Blue Oval: Blake Bolden on the Magic and Mission of the Drake Relays 46:19

5M ago46:19

46:19

The Drake Relays are more than just a track and field event; they’re a celebration of community, athleticism, and history that spans over a century. In a revealing conversation on Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, Drake Relays Director Blake Boldon shared the immense effort and dedication required to pull off this monumental event, along with his vision f…

1
Jimmy Wright: 37 Years of Radio Magic, Local Love, and Legendary Stories 27:28

5M ago27:28

27:28

In this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with legendary Des Moines radio personality Jimmy Wright, whose remarkable 37-year career in the market—35 of them at a single station—has cemented his status as a cornerstone of local broadcasting. The two reflect on Jimmy’s journey, beginning with his early days at Buena Vista Colleg…

1
Backstage with Neil Pond: Country Music Legends, Nashville Insights, and Life as an Entertainment Writer 28:36

5M ago28:36

28:36

In this engaging episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with Neil Pond, a former Iowa resident and a freelance national entertainment writer and editor. With a career spanning decades in the country music industry, Neil reflects on his fascinating journey, beginning with his time at Country America Magazine in Des Moines and extend…

1
Can Radio Survive in '25? Kipper McGee on Radio's (and Audio's) Next Act 46:01

6M ago46:01

46:01

In this engaging episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with Kipper McGee, a former Iowa radio manager, digital media consultant, and author of Brandwidth: How Big Broadcasting Is Missing the Mediamorphosis. Together, they delve into the rapid technological, economic, and cultural shifts impacting the radio industry and its future …

1
Well, Abe! How a Loyal Customer Became a WELLABE Spokesperson 9:55

6M ago9:55

9:55

In this special "Weekend Pour" episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with Abe Goldstein, a multifaceted Iowan known for his community involvement and accordion skills, to share the fascinating story of how he became a spokesperson for WELLABE. Abe humorously recounts his journey, starting as a loyal customer who received a marketi…

1
Terry Rich’s Wild Ride: From Iowa’s Cable TV Roots to Entrepreneurial Triumphs 31:41

6M ago31:41

31:41

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell chats with Terry Rich, an Iowa native whose journey from a college math major to a cable TV pioneer and entrepreneur is as compelling as it is inspiring. Terry recounts his early days in cable television, starting as a producer-director in Des Moines when the industry was just taking root. Hired…

1
Finding Hope in Bethlehem: A Christmas Conversation with Father Michael Amadeo 16:05

6M ago16:05

16:05

In a special Christmas episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with Father Michael Amadeo, Pastor of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Des Moines, for a heartfelt conversation exploring the timeless story of Christmas and its deeper meaning. Father Amadeo eloquently draws parallels between ancient Bethlehem and modern-day Iowa, reflect…

1
The Weekend Pour: Mark Lage on Photographing Iowa’s Soundtrack 15:51

6M ago15:51

15:51

In this special edition of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, “The Weekend Pour,” Maxwell dives deep into the fascinating world of Iowa’s music and concert photography with the legendary Mark Lage. Known for his uncanny ability to capture the raw emotion and energy of live performances, Mark’s work has graced local publications, magazines, and album covers…

1
Behind the Lens: The Making of Jury of Her Peers with William Rock and Stephanie Schneider 33:25

6M ago33:25

33:25

In this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with director William Rock and actor Stephanie Schneider to explore their journey of creating the upcoming independent film, Jury of Her Peers. Set in rural Iowa in 1900, the film is inspired by a real-life axe murder and the subsequent trial of a farm wife accused of killing her husba…

1
The Weekend Pour: Matt Roberts on Important Year-End Tax and Financial Planning 11:50

7M ago11:50

11:50

On "The Weekend Pour" - a special edition of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast - Maxwell sits down with Matt Roberts, Chief Planning Officer at Syverson Strege, to discuss crucial year-end tax and financial planning strategies. (*More about Matt, and a recap of our conversation with additional useful information is below!) With the December 31st deadline l…

1
Spinning Success: Luke Dickens on Vinyl, Business, and the Music Industry's Revival 37:32

7M ago37:32

37:32

On this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with Luke Dickens, the charismatic owner of Vinyl Cup Records and Marv’s Record Shop. A self-made entrepreneur with a passion for vinyl, Luke shares the fascinating journey that led him from a basement startup to managing four thriving record stores and collaborating with legendary mus…

1
Holiday Hilarity and Mystery: Karen Schaeffer & Alex Schaeffer Dish on "A Murder for Christmas" and Creative Playwriting Collaboration 32:28

7M ago32:28

32:28

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with mother-and-son playwright duo Karen Schaeffer and Alex Schaeffer to discuss their unique collaboration on the upcoming comedy A Murder for Christmas, set to open December 6th, 2024, at the Amana Performing Arts Center with TKM Productions. The two share a dynamic back-and-forth, f…

1
From Stage to Songbook: Gina Gedler Shares Her Journey Through Iowa’s Music and Theatre Scene 29:33

7M ago29:33

29:33

In this engaging episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with accomplished Iowa cabaret and club singer, musical theatre actor, and Noce resident performer, Gina Gedler. The conversation dives deep into Gina’s impressive career, her approach to music and performance, and her unique journey in balancing professional artistry with a r…

1
From Iowa to Broadway and Back: Napoleon Douglas on Passion, Perseverance, and Building Community 30:08

7M ago30:08

30:08

On Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell interviews the talented and multifaceted Napoleon Douglas, an Iowa native, Drake University graduate, and international actor, singer, and entrepreneur. As Artistic Director of Pyramid Theatre Company, Iowa's only Black theater, Douglas reflects on his journey from Roosevelt High School to his current roles as …

1
A Hero's Song and Stories of Service: A Veterans Day Tribute With Songwriter, Chip Albright, and Iowa VFW Commander, Michael Young 36:57

8M ago36:57

36:57

In this special Veterans Day 2024 episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with two distinguished Iowans: singer-songwriter Chip Albright and Iowa VFW Commander Michael Young, both with deep connections to the U.S. Marine Corps. The first half of the episode features Chip Albright, an Iowa-based musician inspired by his grandfather’s…

1
Reconnecting & Reimagining: Amy Sweet and Maxwell on Family, Friendship, and Life Beyond Radio 39:20

8M ago39:20

39:20

In this lively episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell catches up with his former radio co-host, Amy Sweet, as they share personal stories and dive into the joys and absurdities of everyday life. The conversation begins with Amy's unique fascination with the gory details of her husband’s Achilles surgery, complete with photos that she enthusi…

1
Magic in the Heartland: Ben Ulin’s 36 Years of Wonder and Laughter at Adventureland 28:37

8M ago28:37

28:37

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, magician and comedian Ben Ulin shares his reflections on a remarkable 36-year career performing at Adventureland. Ulin estimates he’s done over 25,000 shows, captivating audiences of all ages and building a legacy of loyal fans, some spanning three generations. He attributes the sustained success to a m…

1
Game Changers: Greg Edwards on Des Moines' Biggest Wins in Sports and Tourism 27:10

8M ago27:10

27:10

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Greg Edwards, President and CEO of Catch Des Moines, shared exciting developments for the city. This fall, Des Moines landed two major events that will significantly impact the local economy. The first is the TEAMS Conference, scheduled for 2031. This prestigious event brings together governing bodies o…

1
Roots and Resilience: Jason Brown’s Road to Iowa Country Music Fame 46:14

8M ago46:14

46:14

In this engaging interview on Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Iowa country music artist Jason Brown reflects on his journey to becoming a successful musician, shaped by his roots in church music, family influences, and a relentless pursuit of his passion. Jason recalls how his grandmother discovered his talent when he was just four years old, singing hy…

1
Play-By-Play Confessions: Ben Gislason’s Inside Look at Iowa Wild Hockey 54:47

9M ago54:47

54:47

On Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Ben Gislason, play-by-play announcer and Director of Broadcasting and Team Services for the Iowa Wild hockey team, shares the intricacies of his role. Gislason delves into the origins of his hockey journey, and talks about his Minnesota high school, junior hockey, and college hockey years. The discussion shifts to his …

1
Willie Farrell: Laughs, Legends, and Life's True Blessings 49:45

9M ago49:45

49:45

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Willie Farrell, an Iowa-born comedian, reminisces about his 40-year career in comedy. Willie recounts his start at Spaghetti Works in Des Moines, where his talent quickly garnered attention, even earning comparisons to Freddie Prinze and Tony Danza. Encouraged by his mentor, former KCCI-TV personality, …

1
Robert Warren Talks History and Headliners: Hoyt Sherman Place's Record-Breaking Year 47:26

9M ago47:26

47:26

In this captivating episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell interviews Robert Warren, the dynamic CEO of Hoyt Sherman Place, about the historic venue’s remarkable success and transformation. Warren reflects on a record-breaking fiscal year, with Hoyt Sherman Place hosting over 100 headline events and bringing in $6 million in ticket sales—mor…

1
Grant Gillon's Iowa Recipe for MasterChef Glory 34:03

9M ago34:03

34:03

In this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, host Maxwell sits down with Grant Gillon, the 2023 winner of MasterChef, to discuss his journey from a small-town dad in Altoona, Iowa, to national fame as a self-taught culinary star. Grant opens up about what it was like transitioning from being a home cook to navigating the intense spotlight of a hit…

1
The Weekend Pour: Building Dreams Inside HomeShowExpo 2024 with HBA's Dan Knoup & Kirk Mickelson of KRM Custom Homes 26:04

10M ago26:04

26:04

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast "Weekend Pour," Maxwell sits down with two key players in the Greater Des Moines' home-building scene: Dan Knoup, Executive Officer of the Home Builders Association of Greater Des Moines, and Kirk Mickelson, owner of KRM Custom Homes. Recorded on-site at KRM's stunning home in this year’s HomeShowExpo 20…

1
Passion, Persistence, and TikTok: Patricia Holly’s Path to Music Success 47:41

10M ago47:41

47:41

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell interviews singer-songwriter Patricia Holly, whose musical journey to success began by simply having fun on TikTok. Initially, she gained followers by making satirical videos of the Johnny Depp-Amber Heard trial. Her humorous take on the courtroom antics struck a chord, and she quickly built a f…

1
From Heartbreak to Hope: A Mother's Journey Through Childhood Cancer 29:49

10M ago29:49

29:49

In this emotional episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell interviews MaryBeth Meyer, who shares the powerful story of her son James’s battle with cancer. James, now a healthy second-grader, was diagnosed with bilateral Wilms tumor, a rare kidney cancer, when he was just 15 months old. MaryBeth recounts the initial shock of the diagnosis and t…

1
An Iowan Making Nashville Stars Shine: Andy Elliott 33:01

10M ago33:01

33:01

In this episode of the Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with Iowan, Andy Elliott, SVP of Country Promotion with Red Street Records, who made a significant career shift to pursue a passion for promoting country music. Andy shares the story of his journey from behind the microphone, as a popular Iowa radio host and program director, to finding his …

1
Reviving the Magic: A "Triple Espresso" Comeback Story for Patrick Albanese 40:03

11M ago40:03

40:03

In this episode of the Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with actor and magician, Patrick Albanese, known for his role in the long-running show "Triple Espresso," in which he has performed over 3,800 times. The comedy is remembered, historically, as Iowa's longest-running professional show at Des Moines Performing Arts' Temple Theatre. The convers…

1
Building Legacy: Paul Despenas on Hard Work, Family Values, and Rock 'n' Roll 38:11

11M ago38:11

38:11

In this episode of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, Paul Despenas details his Grandfather's journey from Greece to Mason City in the 1920s, driven by the promise of jobs at a cement plant. Despite an injury that ended his grandfather's work there, the family thrived by diversifying into produce. Paul's father, a Navy veteran, transitioned from jewelry sa…

1
96 Years of Theatre and Jazz: Al Downey’s Remarkable Journey 37:34

11M ago37:34

37:34

Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast features a heartwarming and insightful interview with Al Downey, a 96-year-old Playhouse legend. Al and his wife, Ruth, sat down over coffee with Maxwell and he shared his incredible life story, starting with his birth in 1928 in Ottumwa, Iowa, delivered by his midwife grandmother. He recounts his early years, moving betwe…

1
Brooks' Biz Sizzles at the Iowa State Fair 34:13

11M ago34:13

34:13

Welcome to Maxwell’s Iowa Coffee Cast! In this episode, Maxwell features Brooks Reynolds, co-founder of the Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival and operator of JR’s South Pork Ranch at the Iowa State Fair. Brooks shares his family’s deep-rooted history with the fair, dating back to the 1950s when his uncles sold radios and chickens. He describes his venture…

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Maxwell Schaeffer Podcasts

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