Artists and Innovators
My absolute favorite stories to write profile people who live with "creative bravery." I've written about countless artists, entrepreneurs, architects, actors, community creators, musicians, etc.
Arts Midwest
One Iowan's Quest to Put Pie on the Big Screen
Can pie unite a state? This first-time filmmaker thinks so. Meet Beth Howard, who's celebrating Iowa’s recipe for bringing people together.
dsm Magazine
Current Affairs
A shimmery sculptural landmark set to debut in downtown Des Moines in mid-June is designed to catch eyes and capture hearts. Read how the creative duo behind “Hello, River” hopes its head-turning public art piece will serve as the catalyst for a conservation-oriented meet-cute.
dsm Magazine
Healing Through Honey
Honeybees helped Katie Flinn find peace and launch the next phase of her career as a honey sommelier. Read her story and learn how to properly taste local honey.
Midwest Living
Meet the Founder of an All-Women Mexican Rodeo Group in Des Moines
Competing in fast-paced, choreographed horseback routines, Alejandra Piña and her Iowa teammates showcase the grit and grace of Mexican rodeo, honoring their heritage with each hoofbeat. Read more.
PRB+ Magazine
Creative Collaborations
Artist-in-residence programs can help parks departments celebrate spaces and spark conversations about complex issues. Read More
dsm Magazine
A Toy Story
Members of Des Moines’ designer toy collective are former Toys “R” Us kids: Gen Xers and millennials who grew up in the golden era of action figures and Cabbage Patch Kids. They still recall the delight of unboxing a new figurine but began buying and making their own. Learn more.
ia Magazine
Going Against the Grain
Just steps off the Jefferson town square, a carved wooden sign announces RVP-1875.Owned and operated by master furniture maker Robby Pedersen, is part showroom, part workshop, part museum, an occasional performance venue and Pedersen’s home. Peek inside.
Iowa Stater
Thirst for Knowledge
Shelley Smith didn’t set out to become one of the world’s foremost beer experts. Smith’s path to the highest achievement for beer industry professionals stemmed from a serendipitous conversation at Iowa State’s engineering career fair. Read more.
