We look into the story behind a regionally famous – and controversial – beer tap in Des Moines, Iowa.
Read Mandy Naglich’s article about Ruthie in Vice.
We always want to hear from you! If you have a question or story for us, give us a call at 315-992-7902 and leave a message, or send an email to …We look into the story behind a regionally famous – and controversial – beer tap in Des Moines, Iowa.
Read Mandy Naglich’s article about Ruthie in Vice.
We always want to hear from you! If you have a question or story for us, give us a call at 315-992-7902 and leave a message, or send an email to [email protected].more
In this final episode from Elk Horn, Iowa – the most Danish town in America – I visit the local cemetery, where history is literally carved in stone.
Warren Whatson, the caretaker and local historian, shares stories about the early Danish settlers and how names and traditions changed over time.
Th…In this final episode from Elk Horn, Iowa – the most Danish town in America – I visit the local cemetery, where history is literally carved in stone.
Warren Whatson, the caretaker and local historian, shares stories about the early Danish settlers and how names and traditions changed over time.
Then I meet Stan Jens, the big-bearded mayor of Elk Horn, who invites me for a beer in his Harley garage. Between motorcycles and laughter, we talk about preserving Danish culture, small-town pride, and community spirit.
It's a perfect ending to my time in "Dane Country."
See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/339-elk-horn-iowa/more
Welcome to Elk Horn, Iowa – a tiny farming town of about 650 people that calls itself Dane Country. I'm spending time with locals to find out how Danish it still is today. I stay in a Danish-style BnB, eat æbleskiver with medister sausage for breakfast, visit a real 1848 windmill brought here piece …Welcome to Elk Horn, Iowa – a tiny farming town of about 650 people that calls itself Dane Country. I'm spending time with locals to find out how Danish it still is today. I stay in a Danish-style BnB, eat æbleskiver with medister sausage for breakfast, visit a real 1848 windmill brought here piece by piece from Denmark, and sit down with the people keeping the heritage alive.
I also dive into the story of the Danes who left everything in the 1860s and crossed the Atlantic in search of a better life on the American prairie.
See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/335-elk-horn-iowa-usa/more
Welcome back to Elk Horn, Iowa – a small Midwestern town that became the heart of Danish America. In this episode, we hear a remarkable coincidence about the first Danes to arrive here, visit the historic Danish Windmill with manager Lisa Steen Riggs, and explore The Museum of Danish America. I also…Welcome back to Elk Horn, Iowa – a small Midwestern town that became the heart of Danish America. In this episode, we hear a remarkable coincidence about the first Danes to arrive here, visit the historic Danish Windmill with manager Lisa Steen Riggs, and explore The Museum of Danish America. I also get a personal tour of "Bedstemor's Hus," built in 1908 by the colorful local legend known as Prince Otto. From documentaries that made locals famous in Denmark to preserved heritage homes and cultural festivals, Elk Horn continues to celebrate its Danish roots with pride.
See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/338-elk-horn-iowa/more
In this week's episode, we dive into the ongoing Newmar VIN fiasco and explore the emerging road technologies making travel safer and more efficient. We also highlight a hidden gem in eastern Iowa—Maquoketa Caves State Park, and the unique Codfish Hollow Barnstormers music venue.
*Become an RV Miles…In this week's episode, we dive into the ongoing Newmar VIN fiasco and explore the emerging road technologies making travel safer and more efficient. We also highlight a hidden gem in eastern Iowa—Maquoketa Caves State Park, and the unique Codfish Hollow Barnstormers music venue.
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Track SSTK_MUSIC_ID 437726– Monetization ID MONETIZATION_ID AMXDXB4BX5FLHUYE
00:00 Introduction01:55 Fall Weather and Camping Plans05:35 Discussing the Newmar VIN Fiasco25:05 Emerging Road Technologies33:48 Exploring Maquoketa, Iowa35:30 A Hidden Concert Venue40:26 Local Attractions and Activities43:02 Maquoketa Caves Adventure48:40 National Park Shutdown Concerns54:04 McDonald's Monopoly and Chipotle Woes01:02:48 The Value of Local Libraries01:06:05 Conclusion and Farewellmore
Join Jason and Abby live from their annual homecoming event in Amana, Iowa. In this special Q&A session, they cover everything from their dreams of owning land in New Mexico to behind-the-scenes insights into producing their content, the scariest roads they've driven, and their favorite hidden gem c…Join Jason and Abby live from their annual homecoming event in Amana, Iowa. In this special Q&A session, they cover everything from their dreams of owning land in New Mexico to behind-the-scenes insights into producing their content, the scariest roads they've driven, and their favorite hidden gem campgrounds.
*Become an RV Miles Mile Marker member and get your first month for $3
*Get your FREE weekly Road Signs Newsletter at https://rvmiles.com/mailinglist/
Support our Sponsors:
* Harvest Hosts: Save 15% on a Harvest Hosts membership with MILES at https://harvesthosts.com*Check out all Blue Ox has to offer at https://BlueOx.com*Find all the RV parts and gear you need at etrailer: https://www.etrailer.com/vehicle-finder.aspx?etam=p0001*Find Liquified at https://liquifiedrv.com/
Track SSTK_MUSIC_ID 437726– Monetization ID MONETIZATION_ID AMXDXB4BX5FLHUYE
00:00 Introduction04:51 Vision for New Mexico07:49 Changes in the RV Industry11:05 Full-Time RVing vs. Sticks and Bricks16:06 Behind the Scenes of RV Miles Podcast22:30 Friendship and Family in RVing24:09 Favorite Travel Destinations28:07 Scariest and Most Beautiful Roads32:47 National Parks and Reservations37:50 Planning the Perfect Trip38:03 Emotional Stories from the Road38:30 Dealing with Criticism and Misunderstandings42:18 Memorable Encounters and Supportive Communities44:39 Future Plans for RV Life45:40 Growing RV Miles48:14 Technical Glitches and Travel Disagreements52:43 National Parks Budget Concerns54:55 Rapid Fire Questions01:00:05 Favorite Campgrounds and Hidden Gems01:12:10 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughtsmore
What if the biggest party on two wheels was happening in the middle of Iowa every summer—and you were invited? Cyclist Eric Whalen joins Jackie to share the magic of RAGBRAI, the week-long ride across the state that’s equal parts endurance, community, and carnival. From pies and slip-n-slides to cos…What if the biggest party on two wheels was happening in the middle of Iowa every summer—and you were invited? Cyclist Eric Whalen joins Jackie to share the magic of RAGBRAI, the week-long ride across the state that’s equal parts endurance, community, and carnival. From pies and slip-n-slides to costumes and late-night music, Eric reveals how this ride became a father-son tradition and why it’s one of the most joyful cycling adventures in the country.
Resources:
• Learn more about RAGBRAI: Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa
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• Follow Eric on Instagram: @whaylen
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Produced by NOVA
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At Iowa Irish Fest, the music flows as easily as the pints. This year, I sat down with Belfast-born musician Ian Gould, who’s been sharing Irish music around the world for years.
Known for weaving stories and history into his performances, Ian also hosted a bodhrán workshop during the festival, giv…At Iowa Irish Fest, the music flows as easily as the pints. This year, I sat down with Belfast-born musician Ian Gould, who’s been sharing Irish music around the world for years.
Known for weaving stories and history into his performances, Ian also hosted a bodhrán workshop during the festival, giving curious festival-goers a hands-on introduction to Ireland’s frame drum.
This article is based on podcast episode 285 featuring Irish trad musician Ian Gould.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.
A Festival Chat with Ian Gould
We covered a lot of ground in our chat – a surprising fact about the bodhrán, thoughts on trad versus contemporary Irish music, and even the tours he leads to Ireland and Scotland.
The Bodhrán’s Place in Irish Music
Despite its deep, drum-like heartbeat, the bodhrán is a relatively recent addition to traditional Irish ensembles. While a few historic paintings hint at its earlier presence, the instrument only became a standard part of the trad music scene in the 1960s and 70s, popularized by groups like The Chieftains.
Drums have existed in every culture for centuries, but in Ireland, the bodhrán’s construction often uses ash or oak for strength, with goat skin stretched across the frame for its pliable tone. Some feature decorative woodwork, though functionality comes first.
At Iowa Irish Fest, Ian’s workshop stood out for actually supplying bodhráns for attendees to try – though pizza-box substitutes were on hand if needed. Players learned how different beaters (or even brushes) create varied sounds, from crisp snaps to soft swishes.
Trad vs. Contemporary Irish Music
Traditional Irish music tends to be defined by its core instruments – fiddles, whistles, and, in more recent decades, the bodhrán. Older singing styles, such as sean-nós, were unaccompanied and uniform, without harmonies.
Contemporary Irish bands, like Gaelic Storm or Screaming Orphans, often start with that traditional base and expand into modern arrangements and global influences. While they may still feature the fiddle or pipes, their sound reaches beyond the boundaries of strict trad.
From Stage to Tour Bus
When Ian isn’t performing, he’s traveling – sometimes hosting tours through his boutique travel company, G&W Irish Tours, which he co-owns with Paul Ward. They run several small-group trips each year to Ireland and Scotland, focusing on exploring smaller regions in depth rather than racing “all over everywhere” in a week.
This autumn (2025), they’re running a foodie-focused trip, followed by a music-themed tour next April (2026), a Scotland trip in May, and an Ulster-focused “Nine to the North” tour in June that includes Ian’s hometown of Belfast.
For details, visit G&W Irish Tours and see if one of their itineraries fits your calendar. If you can’t join me in Ireland, traveling with Ian might just be your next best option.
The post The Beat of Ireland: Ian Gould on the Bodhrán, Trad Music, and Tours appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.more
Guinness might be one of the most iconic Irish exports, but did you know it's the number one selling draft beer in the United States? It’s growing at an impressive rate – so much so that Guinness Brewery Ambassador Zach Berger proudly shared the news at Iowa Irish Fest. That creamy pint? It’s not ju…Guinness might be one of the most iconic Irish exports, but did you know it's the number one selling draft beer in the United States? It’s growing at an impressive rate – so much so that Guinness Brewery Ambassador Zach Berger proudly shared the news at Iowa Irish Fest. That creamy pint? It’s not just a nod to Ireland—it’s a thriving, evolving brand with deep roots and global appeal.
And here’s something most people don’t realize: all Guinness Draft sold in the U.S. is brewed in Dublin at St. James’s Gate. While there are Guinness breweries in Baltimore and Chicago, those are innovation hubs – think limited-run beers and culinary pairings – not production sites for the classic stout.
Gate at Guinness Storehouse
This article is based on podcast episode 284 featuring Zack Berger, Guinness Brand Ambassador (follow on Instagram @guinnessinthecity).
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.
From Barrels to Modern Draft
Guinness has come a long way since the days when it was shipped in barrels and bottled in individual pubs. Back then, quality control teams traveled to those pubs to ensure the product remained true. If a pub was caught altering the beer? The punishment was a national ad outing the misrepresentation. A bold move, but effective.
original ‘pub bottled' beer bottles
The Guinness we know today, with its distinct pour and that classic “wait for the settle” moment, didn’t debut until 1959. Before that, a pub might have served a blend of casks to achieve that creamy result. Innovation has always been baked into Guinness and continues today through its American breweries.
Guinness = Ireland
There’s a reason the Guinness Storehouse is the number one attraction in Ireland. It’s more than beer, it’s legacy. Guinness has managed to stay true to its Irish identity while becoming a global brand. In fact, in some parts of Africa, Guinness is seen more as a local product than an import. That kind of cultural integration doesn’t happen by accident.
According to Zach, it’s Guinness’s authenticity, consistency, and connection to Irish craftsmanship that keeps people returning. Whether it’s music, film, or beer – Irish culture is having a moment, and Guinness is at the center of it.
And yes, that harp on the pint is the same harp you see on official Irish emblems – but with a twist. Quite literally. Guinness used it first. When Ireland became a republic and adopted the harp as a national symbol, they flipped it to avoid copyright infringement.
Guinness in a traditional pub in Cashel, Ireland
Inside the Guinness Storehouse: More Than a Pint
Even if you’re not a beer drinker (hi, me), the Guinness Storehouse is well worth a visit. It’s part museum, part cultural experience, and packed with layers of storytelling. You can expect:
• A self-guided museum-style tour through seven floors of Guinness history
• Immersive advertising archives (ever heard of the Guinness zoo ads?)
• Dining options with Guinness-infused menus
• That iconic 360° view of Dublin from the Gravity Bar
The story behind the zoo ads is delightful. Artist John Gilroy drew inspiration from a seal balancing a ball, imagined it was a pint, and ran with it – eventually introducing the world to a whole animal cast and the famous zookeeper (a self-portrait, by the way).
Driving in Dublin
When to Visit the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin
There’s no “wrong” time to visit the Storehouse, but your ideal moment depends on your pace. Want a more relaxed, less-crowded visit? Go in the morning right when it opens. Interested in a livelier vibe with music and energy? Aim for the afternoon.
Visiting in the off-season? Try to time your Gravity Bar visit with the sunset. In winter months, the low light and city views are especially stunning.
And no matter when you go, don’t rush it. The tour is self-guided, and 90 minutes is a minimum if you want to absorb everything.
Guinness in the U.S.: Innovation with an Irish Soul
Guinness’s two American breweries – in Baltimore and Chicago – aren’t about recreating the classics. Instead, they focus on what’s next. These spots brew limited-edition beers like IPAs, lagers, and even fruited sours or barrel-aged stouts. If you’re visiting, don’t just order a standard draft – ask what’s new and local.
Baltimore offers a sprawling beer garden and open brewery feel, while Chicago delivers a more urban, culinary-forward experience, complete with beer cocktails and food pairings. Both serve as an introduction to the Guinness brand beyond the iconic stout and a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation.
Guinness may begin with a pint, but its story is so much more than that. It's about innovation, legacy, global identity, and great marketing. It's almost the story of Ireland – rich history with an eye to the future.
The post Guinness Stories: What You Might Not Know About Ireland’s Iconic Brew appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.more
There was an error in the version of the podcast, I published a few hours ago – so listen to this instead.
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Join me as I discover the unique Danish-American community of Elk Horn, Iowa. I journey through the town's historic cemetery with local historian Warren Whatson, exploring Americanized …There was an error in the version of the podcast, I published a few hours ago – so listen to this instead.
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Join me as I discover the unique Danish-American community of Elk Horn, Iowa. I journey through the town's historic cemetery with local historian Warren Whatson, exploring Americanized Danish names.
I also meet the charismatic Mayor Stan Jens, known for his community involvement and appearances on Danish TV. I learn about Elk Horn's efforts to preserve its Danish heritage through events like Tivoli Fest and local cuisine. I experience the warmth of this small Midwestern town that beautifully blends Danish traditions with American life. more
Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond as I delve into the fascinating history of Elk Horn, Iowa, a small Midwestern town with a rich Danish heritage. Hear the story of Egon Simonsen, the last Danish immigrant in Elk Horn, and discover the serendipitous connection I found between my fictional…Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond as I delve into the fascinating history of Elk Horn, Iowa, a small Midwestern town with a rich Danish heritage. Hear the story of Egon Simonsen, the last Danish immigrant in Elk Horn, and discover the serendipitous connection I found between my fictional tale and real history.
We'll be back at the iconic Danish Windmill, meet its dedicated manager Lisa Steen Riggs, and explore the efforts to preserve Danish culture through the Museum of Danish America and Bedstemors Hus.
This journey uncovers the vibrant Danish American community in Elk Horn and their commitment to preserving their roots. Don't miss this captivating exploration of Danish heritage in the heartland of America. more
Welcome to Dane Country, the largest rural Danish settlement in the US. Join me as I explore Elk Horn, Iowa, and uncover the rich Danish heritage that still thrives today.
From the historic Danish Windmill, originally built in 1848 and reassembled in Elk Horn, to the charming Bed and Breakfast …Welcome to Dane Country, the largest rural Danish settlement in the US. Join me as I explore Elk Horn, Iowa, and uncover the rich Danish heritage that still thrives today.
From the historic Danish Windmill, originally built in 1848 and reassembled in Elk Horn, to the charming Bed and Breakfast run by Lynn and Trudy Juelsgaard, you'll discover how Danish traditions have been preserved and adapted in this unique American town.
Along the way, we'll taste traditional Danish-American cuisine and learn about the town's proud history. Don't miss this deep dive into Little Denmark on the Prairie! more
Thanks for joining us for Episode 10! We're preparing for Spring Break in Florida (for better or worse) and Angie's book which comes out TOMORROW (March 12).
1:30 Slow claps for spring break and the end of seasonal depression
2:34 Oh no, it's freezing
2:55 Rae announces @Off.Day.Adventures next b…Thanks for joining us for Episode 10! We're preparing for Spring Break in Florida (for better or worse) and Angie's book which comes out TOMORROW (March 12).
1:30 Slow claps for spring break and the end of seasonal depression
2:34 Oh no, it's freezing
2:55 Rae announces @Off.Day.Adventures next big trip
3:00 All about the Ragbrai bike rice in Iowa inspired by @KaraandNate
4:05 It's CORN! That's all we know about Iowa
5:05 We've grown apart in our travel preferences
6:30 The benefits of having a goal for training
7:30 Will Ben finish the race without Rae if she falls out?
8:00 Rae is into Challenge Travel
9:15 @Visit_Miami has a hilarious new spring break ad campaign
10:15 How bad does it have to be to shut down all tourism for Spring Break?
11:30 "STAY HOME" a new marketing slogan
12:00 Angie's book comes out TOMORROW
13:37 This is a spoiler.... get over it.
14:15 What is a RTW plane ticket?
15:00 Why last minute travel planning is ok sometimes
15:40 Hiking through Mordor and Mt. Doom in New Zealand
16:00 Rae tries to spoil the WHOLE book
16:26 Why the Bali chapters are the scariest part of the book
17:10 Exclusive confession for podcast guests only
17:35 Songkran in Thailand and Laos
18:10 Everybody travel, it's so fun
19:00 Greece in 2011 was not like Mamma Mia said
19:25 And this is where the whole trip went off the rails...
20:15 Hemingway was right ... about Friday night at the Miller house
21:27 Went to England, met a ghost
22:00 How the Arab Spring affected travel in 2011
23:15 What is the deal with the title FLIRTING WITH DISASTER
23:45 Who is Molly Hatchet anyway?
24:00 What it's like to float on the Nile on a felucca
23:53 Rae continues with the spoilers. Can't tell her anything!
26:45 How Angie spent her 30th birthday abroad
27:50 BUT DID YOU DIE?
28:15 Why 2011 was the worst year ever for traveling solo around the world
30:00 Angie's book available everywhere you buy books: https://angieaway.com/flirting-with-disaster-book/
32:00 Rae continues with Rabbi training
Special thanks to our partner Medjet for sponsoring this episode of BUT DID YOU DIE?! WITH THE JET SISTERS.
Read why we don't leave home without a Medjet membership: https://angieaway.com/2023/10/27/medjet-review/
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