Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast

Maxwell Schaeffer
Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast

Ready to listen in to a great conversation over a delicious cup of coffee? Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast offers an engaging blend of candid interviews, commentary, and humor, providing listeners with fresh insight and perspective into the lives of fellow Iowans who have interesting stories to tell. Maxwell is a decades-long Iowa broadcaster and his easygoing and relatable hosting style, combined with the genuine and heartfelt nature of the conversations, creates a welcoming atmosphere for listeners and his guests. The podcast not only entertains but also provides valuable insights and reflections on personal and professional growth and the importance of staying true to one's values. And there is always a special focus on Iowan's who contribute to arts and culture in their communities. Listeners can expect the Iowa CoffeeCast to continue exploring diverse topics, featuring a range of guests who bring their unique perspectives and experiences. Whether discussing industry trends, personal stories, or broader societal issues, the podcast aims to foster meaningful dialogue and connect with its audience on a deeper level. Maxwell's commitment to authenticity and community shines through, making it a must-listen for those seeking thoughtful and engaging content.

  1. 6D AGO

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

    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 clubs in Iowa City and Ames. We kick things off reminiscing about how we first connected back in 1987 when I was playing dance records on the radio—a rarity at the time—and Jim called in to share his enthusiasm. That moment sparked a friendship and collaboration that eventually led to “Club Z-93,” one of Des Moines’ first radio dance shows blending live DJ sets with curated mixes. Jim recounts his journey from spinning vinyl on turntables without pitch control—relying on wordplay and creative segues—to getting his first pair of Technics 1200s (the gold standard for DJs) from an unlikely place: a Big Lots store. His passion for perfecting the craft is clear, whether he’s talking about beatmatching records with live drummers, adjusting for fluctuating BPMs in early disco hits, or understanding the energy flow of a dance floor. We also explore the evolution of DJ culture, from 12-inch singles and record pools in the ‘70s and ‘80s to modern-day software, mashups, and remixes. Jim shares his insights on what it takes to be a great DJ: not just technical skills, but the ability to read a crowd, manage the emotional arc of a night, and always have a “money” track ready to rescue the vibe. Now retired from his 34-year day job as an IT programmer, Jim is busier than ever DJing college clubs, weddings, football games, and private events. At 69, he’s a fixture in Iowa City nightlife, earning admiration from college crowds who know exactly when he’s in the booth. He shares stories of students recognizing him on the street and young fans lining up for photos, proving that his passion for music bridges generations. From vinyl to digital, small-town radio stations to big city clubs, Jim’s story is one of perseverance, adaptation, and joy. This conversation isn’t just for music lovers—it’s for anyone who appreciates the power of staying curious, passionate, and connected to the beat of life. Connect with him on Instagram @djjimmyjim or email him at born2mix@gmail.com.

    37 min

  2. APR 30

    From Camaros to Commercial Real Estate: The Richard Hurd Story

    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 with flipping cars as a teenager and stretches into building convenience stores and commercial properties across the Midwest. He opens up about his early years, growing up in a working-class neighborhood during the 1960s and '70s, where fixing up old cars gave him his first taste of profit and pride. “I’d buy a Camaro or SS Impala, trick it out with tires, wheels, and a stereo, then sell it to another kid who wanted something ready to drive,” he recalls. It was a pattern that carried into his next phase: flipping trucks and, eventually, homes. After a stint in the Air Force as a munitions specialist during the Vietnam War era, his worldview shifted. “I hated the military at the time,” he admits, “but it was the best thing that ever happened to me. You grow up fast when you realize freedom isn’t free.” Returning to Des Moines, he briefly tried college at Drake before turning to real estate at his father’s suggestion. With guidance and a co-signed loan, he bought and rehabbed his first house—and never looked back. He describes how he tapped into a network of aging property owners, particularly conservative Italian landlords on the south side, to build his rental and flip portfolio. Then came the major pivot: a meeting with Bill Krause, founder of Kum & Go, that led to a new model of commercial real estate investment—one that would shape his career. “I asked him three questions,” he says. “If the answer to any was no, I’d walk out. But they were all yes. That’s how we got started.” Today, he partners with brands like Hy-Vee and continues to adapt to market shifts. From building Topgolf to navigating the challenges of post-COVID commercial real estate, his story is one of grit, timing, and relationships.

    32 min

  3. APR 23

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

    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 in Outro, a new Iowa-made independent film in which he stars as “Roger”—a character that feels strikingly familiar. We start by going back to the mid-1980s, when Mike had just left a career selling blue jeans out of his car and was slowly rebuilding a creative life in Winterset. Through a mix of lottery gigs, local TV hosting, and hustling voiceover work at $6/hour, he worked his way back into the storytelling world he loved. “I wasn’t Mozart,” Mike says. “But I knew selling pants wasn’t where I belonged.” The conversation pivots to Outro, which has earned Mike a Best Actor nomination at the Iowa Film Awards. The film, co-written with director Wes Worthing, was inspired by themes from Mike’s own book Dreams and Detours, and follows Roger, a former musician-turned-radio-host struggling with the long shadow of unrealized dreams. “It’s not autobiographical,” Mike insists, “but I do relate to him deeply.” Roger’s battle with retirement, regret, and identity mirrors universal questions many face later in life—especially those who took creative detours. Mike discusses the unique acting challenges he faced moving from commercials to true cinematic performance. “In film, if you’re self-aware, it won’t be real,” he says, quoting Martin Sheen. Letting go of vanity and embracing vulnerability was key to authentically portraying Roger’s emotional arc. He also speaks with pride about the collaborative spirit behind the film. The crew, including local talents like Davida Williams, Stephanie Schneider, and Dave Stuck of Radio Garage, brought a no-ego, all-heart approach to the project. “Everyone was in it for the right reasons,” Mike says. “We just wanted to tell a good story.” We also talk about the Dubuque International Film Festival—where Outro will premiere April 23–27—followed by a Des Moines screening in late May. With additional festival entries in places like Nashville, London, and Cedar Falls, Mike is enjoying a late-career creative renaissance. “We’re not doing this to get rich,” he says. “We’re doing it because we love it.” Our chat touches on the evolving world of acting, ageism in media, and the push-and-pull of technology, especially the rise of AI in storytelling. Mike is candid but hopeful: “There’s room for AI, but it can’t replicate human inflection or interpretation. At the end of the day, it’s about authenticity.” Whether you remember Mike from TV, radio, or real estate ads, this conversation reveals a deeper side of a man who never stopped chasing stories—or helping others tell theirs. His journey, and Outro, are both about the power of reflection, reinvention, and finding meaning at any stage of life.

    34 min

  4. APR 16

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

    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 with a close friend’s impersonal and disappointing funeral experience that left her searching for a better way. “I was a bartender and single mom, just getting by,” Lanae recalls. “After my friend’s funeral, which had nothing to do with who he was, I went home, had a couple glasses of wine, and Googled ‘how to become a funeral director.’” That late-night search led to DMACC’s mortuary science program and ultimately to a life of service she never expected. Lanae opens up about the surprising aspects of her profession, from the clinical precision of embalming and restorative art to the emotional challenges of grief-stricken families. She emphasizes that “the living people are the hard part,” recalling moments when grief turned into misplaced anger—she’s been yelled at, punched, even had shoes thrown at her. Yet, she remains steadfast in her belief that funeral service is a gift: “We give families that one last, beautiful goodbye.” We dive into the creativity required in modern funeral services—like designing a baseball-themed visitation or granting a man’s final wish to be buried standing up. These aren’t just quirky anecdotes—they're proof of how funeral professionals like Lanae work to make end-of-life celebrations as unique as the lives they honor. Lanae also shares the remarkable story behind The Final Salute, her effort to locate, claim, and respectfully bury the unclaimed cremated remains of veterans across Iowa. “We’ve laid to rest 70 veterans and their spouses so far,” she says. “Last year alone, we honored veterans from every major U.S. war era—including one from the Civil War.” She talks about the growing role of women in the funeral industry, her national training work, and her upcoming fundraiser to support The Final Salute’s continued mission. As Lanae puts it, “Being in a basement isn’t where a veteran belongs. They deserve a headstone, a flag, and a final salute.” This is a conversation that’s both eye-opening and deeply moving—a testament to one woman’s mission to bring dignity, empathy, and even creativity to life’s most difficult moments.

    39 min

  5. APR 9

    What Drives a Man to Make Putters in Iowa? Jared Doerfler Explains

    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 heart of Iowa. A former collegiate golfer at the University of Northern Iowa, Jared shares how his obsession with a specific mallet putter he used in college eventually led him down the unexpected path of becoming a putter maker. Unable to find a putter that felt just right after returning the original to his coach, Jared decided to design his own. He sketched a concept on graph paper, worked with friends to build a prototype, and was instantly hooked on the creative process—even though the first result was, in his own words, “terrible.” Fueled by a life-altering moment—his father’s retirement following a long battle with MS—Jared quit his job, bought his first CNC milling machine, and taught himself everything he could about the art of milling putters. His garage became his shop, and his passion project evolved into a full-fledged business. Now, with multiple machines and growing demand, Jared's story is as much about personal growth as it is about making putters. Maxwell and Jared dive deep into what makes a milled putter special—from the material (303 stainless steel) to the subtle art of face milling for feel and sound. Jared explains the difference between casting and milling, emphasizing how the latter allows for a more precise, responsive, and customizable club. His putters are crafted in small batches, milled and finished by hand, and infused with the kind of quality and personality that mass-produced equipment just can’t replicate. The conversation also explores Jared’s refreshingly honest approach to building Hanna Golf’s brand. With no traditional marketing budget, he has leaned into storytelling, writing a popular golf-and-business newsletter and building a dedicated following through social media. Hanna Golf now ships to 45 states and six countries, and recently collaborated with Bridgestone Golf on a limited-edition Masters-themed release that sold out in minutes. Beyond the mechanics and marketing, Jared speaks candidly about the support system behind him—his wife, young children, friends, and in-laws. He credits them for making his entrepreneurial leap possible and acknowledges the emotional and physical toll of building a company from scratch. In a state not traditionally known for golf manufacturing, Jared is creating something special with Hanna Golf. His mission? To become Iowa’s golf company. Whether you're a golfer, a dreamer, or someone standing at the edge of a big life decision, this episode is a reminder that with grit, heart, and a little bit of stubbornness, you can build something meaningful—right in your own backyard. Learn more at hannagolf.com or follow @hannagolfco on social media.

    23 min

  6. APR 2

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

    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 complex role of AI in storytelling. The discussion kicks off with a deep dive into the current state of podcasting and digital media. Justin shares how the game has fundamentally changed: simply having a podcast or showing up on major platforms like YouTube, Apple, or Spotify isn’t enough anymore. Audiences are increasingly tuning out generic, promotional content and tuning into authenticity. According to Justin, today’s challenge isn’t how to publish—anyone can do that—it’s how to “out-authenticity” your competition and genuinely deliver value. Maxwell and Justin unpack what this shift means for small businesses, especially local Iowa brands and mom-and-pop shops. Justin stresses that people don’t want to hear about your product—they want to hear about themselves. He encourages business owners to shift focus away from self-promotion and toward content that resonates with their audience’s interests and problems. Using relatable anecdotes, like a call with an especially helpful bank representative, the duo illustrates how authentic human interaction—even in something as ordinary as customer service—can become powerful content. The conversation turns toward AI, with Justin offering a nuanced perspective on its use in content creation. Rather than replacing the creative process, he believes AI can actually enhance authenticity when used correctly—as a tool for summarizing, transcribing, or organizing information. But he’s quick to warn that relying on AI to generate original content is a mistake. “If AI is getting in the way of that humanity,” Justin says, “you’re doing it wrong.” Maxwell and Justin also explore how big brands and marketing agencies are often just as lost in the new digital ecosystem as small businesses. Many are still clinging to outdated tactics, missing the mark by pushing content instead of building real relationships. They touch on the rise of live audio platforms like X Spaces and the slow disruption of Google Search by AI-powered tools like ChatGPT and Grok. The episode wraps with a discussion on creative storytelling in the age of automation. Whether it's singer-songwriters releasing vinyl to connect with fans, or filmmakers returning to analog methods for a more soulful product, Justin underscores a vital point: tools like AI can support the creative process, but story and human connection must always lead. Recorded at the IowaPodcast.com studio in Des Moines’ East Village, this episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, content creators, and anyone navigating the noisy world of digital storytelling. Grab your favorite brew and listen in for a grounded yet forward-thinking conversation that blends tech, strategy, and a whole lot of heart.

    38 min

  7. MAR 26

    Singer-Songwriter Abbie Sawyer on Creativity, Ritual, and Her Most Intimate Album Yet

    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 behind her upcoming album, her creative rituals, and her drive to cultivate immersive experiences—both sonically and sensorially. The two begin by connecting over Rick Rubin’s The Creative Act: A Way of Being, a book that has profoundly influenced Abbie’s creative mindset. Abbie shares how she and her co-producer used Rubin’s book as a guidepost while recording her new album, Persimmon, aiming to tap into an intuitive, collaborative energy rather than a strictly hierarchical studio process. She talks about music as a form of healing, a way of “naming the unnamable,” and the magic of knowing when a song is finished—whether it arrives as laughter or a sudden sense of clarity. Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at Abbie’s unique recording process, which took place in her own living room to preserve the intimacy and emotion of her songs. Collaborating with Gabe from xBk, they recorded digitally and later ran the tracks through analog tape for warmth and texture. The result is a deeply personal album about love, loss, and the fleeting beauty of life, set to release April 25, 2025, with album release shows in Iowa City and Des Moines to follow. Abbie also talks about her work with The NOLA Jazz Band out of Des Moines, and by simply choosing to say "yes" she landed into an opportunity that would showcase her dimensional vocal talent. Abbie also shares her passion for botanicals through her handmade brand, Mama Bare Botanicals. She discusses how scent, taste, and touch are intertwined with her creative practices, and dreams up immersive shows where audience members might dab on essential oils tailored to each song. Creativity, for her, isn’t confined to music—it’s a full-body, sensory experience, and a way of engaging with the world. Maxwell and Abbie dive into the balance between parenting, entrepreneurship, and artistry, exploring the rhythms of creativity and the challenge of switching between “output” and “discovery” modes. They also explore the vulnerability of recording versus performing, the danger of over-editing, and the art of letting a song evolve in real time—sometimes years after its original version. The episode wraps with a shared love for Iowa’s creative community, from open mics at Mars Café to dreams of a songwriter’s haven like Nashville’s Bluebird Café. Abbie reflects on her start in music—saying “yes” at the right moments—and the joy of being part of Iowa’s evolving music scene. This episode is a testament to the power of trusting your creative voice, staying open to collaboration, and honoring the everyday magic that fuels authentic artistry. Whether you're a songwriter, a parent, or simply someone trying to carve out space for creativity, Abbie’s story will inspire you to listen inward and create from the heart.

    32 min

  8. MAR 12

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

    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 Moines, Chris shares how his passion for photography evolved into a lifelong profession. Chris reflects on his early fascination with cameras, recalling the feel of his first Nikon F3 and how his instinctive ability to frame shots set the foundation for his success. He explains how photography is more than just snapping pictures—it's about building trust, engaging with people, and capturing authentic moments that resonate long after the shutter clicks. His unique presence at events, often donned in his signature bowtie and hat, has become as much a part of the experience as the photos themselves. Throughout the conversation, Chris discusses the nuances of photographing people in their most natural and expressive states. He shares insights into making subjects comfortable, the importance of respect in photography, and how to strike a balance between formal portraits and spontaneous, candid moments. Listeners will hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, including how a simple escalator shot of a prominent Iowa couple became a magazine cover and why some of his most meaningful images come from unposed, fleeting interactions. Chris and Maxwell also dive into the changing landscape of photography in the digital age. With cameras in everyone’s pockets, what does it take to sustain a career as a full-time professional photographer? Chris candidly discusses the challenges and joys of running his own business, the importance of staying relevant, and why building strong relationships is key to longevity in the industry. In a particularly intriguing moment, Maxwell pitches an idea for a unique art exhibit featuring top Iowa photographers capturing each other—a concept that sparks Chris’s imagination and leaves listeners wondering if they might just witness a groundbreaking collaboration in the near future. Whether you're an aspiring photographer, a fan of Iowa's creative community, or someone who simply loves a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is filled with rich insights, humor, and heartfelt reflections on the power of photography to tell stories, forge connections, and preserve history. Tune in and discover why Chris Maharry isn’t just taking pictures—he’s capturing Iowa, one frame at a time. Connect with Chris HERE!

    34 min
See All (51)

4.9
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

Ready to listen in to a great conversation over a delicious cup of coffee? Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast offers an engaging blend of candid interviews, commentary, and humor, providing listeners with fresh insight and perspective into the lives of fellow Iowans who have interesting stories to tell. Maxwell is a decades-long Iowa broadcaster and his easygoing and relatable hosting style, combined with the genuine and heartfelt nature of the conversations, creates a welcoming atmosphere for listeners and his guests. The podcast not only entertains but also provides valuable insights and reflections on personal and professional growth and the importance of staying true to one's values. And there is always a special focus on Iowan's who contribute to arts and culture in their communities. Listeners can expect the Iowa CoffeeCast to continue exploring diverse topics, featuring a range of guests who bring their unique perspectives and experiences. Whether discussing industry trends, personal stories, or broader societal issues, the podcast aims to foster meaningful dialogue and connect with its audience on a deeper level. Maxwell's commitment to authenticity and community shines through, making it a must-listen for those seeking thoughtful and engaging content.

Information

  • Creator
    Maxwell Schaeffer
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    51
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Maxwell Schaeffer
  • Show Website
    Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast

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