Iowans You Should Know with Jeffrey Stein
A popular Iowa radio feature will come to life in a special presentation this month, offering a chance to explore the people, places, and events that have helped shape the Hawkeye State.
“Iowans You Should Know: Stories from the Iowa Almanac” will be presented by broadcaster and historian Jeffrey Stein on Tuesday, April 29th at the Ida Grove Library. The event, which begins at 5:30pm, is free and open to the public, and is funded by Humanities Iowa.
Stein is the creator and host of the Iowa Almanac, a daily syndicated radio segment that airs across the state a total of 50 times each weekday. Now in its 11th year, the program has featured more than 400 stories—each one spotlighting a notable moment or figure in Iowa history.
This in-person event gives Stein the opportunity to dive deeper into some of his favorite stories, from Iowa-born inventions like the Eskimo Pie and the clip-on bow tie, to legendary entertainers, political figures, and athletic standouts with Iowa roots.
“Iowa is a special place with so much to celebrate,” Stein said. “These in-person presentations give me the chance to tell more of the story than time permits on the radio.”
Each presentation is uniquely adapted to include stories of regional interest, making it especially meaningful for local audiences. And attendees are encouraged to suggest their own story ideas for future Almanac segments.
“I truly appreciate the opportunity to share these great stories in person,” Stein added.
For anyone who enjoys Iowa history, hometown pride, or just a good story well told, this event promises an evening of insight, entertainment, and connection.
Jeff Stein is a native Iowan and passionate storyteller who shares the rich history of his home state through the popular radio feature Iowa Almanac. He hosts a daily interview program on News/Talk 1540 KXEL, a 50,000-watt station serving listeners across Iowa.
An accomplished author, Stein has written six books focused on Iowa history and public policy. He also produces and hosts the Iowa Business Report radio program and podcast, and is a frequent speaker on topics related to Iowa’s media, history, and culture.
His work includes the award-winning documentary From the Battlefront to the Homefront: Iowa Broadcasters Go to War, as well as the four-volume Duane & Floppy Collection DVD set, preserving the legacy of Iowa’s beloved children’s television icons.
*The Ida Grove Library has received funding from Humanities Iowa, a private, non-profit, to host the presentation “Iowan’s You Should Know” by Jeffrey Stein. A cultural resource for Iowans since 1971, Humanities Iowa offers many cultural and historical programs and grants to Iowa’s communities.
