What happens when a centuries-old trade meets the cutting edge of artificial intelligence? Riana LeJeune is proving that upholstery is far from a "dying art" by launching a first-of-its-kind national apprenticeship and developing a global design app without any coding knowledge.

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LeJeune dives into how she bypassed a $100,000 software quote to build her own global SaaS platform and why she believes industry-specific Ai is the secret to making artisans more profitable. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast, a tech geek, or someone who values the "buy once, buy well" philosophy, you'll want to hear how this Iowa entrepreneur is turning old-school grit into a high-tech revolution.

Chapters
00:00 - Old Trade Meets AI
01:45 - Why Upholstery Still Matters
08:48 - Building a National Apprenticeship
15:24 - Renewable App Explained
19:44 - Two Sided Platform Pricing
23:08 - Vibe Coding And Future

As newspapers struggle across the country, one small town in Northwestern Iowa is bucking the trend. Not only are they're seeing subscriber and advertiser growth through a new podcast. Erin Sommers, editor of The Record Democrat in Pocahontas, Iowa explains why she launched their new podcast, "On The Record," before their first website!

Links:
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In this interview Sommers explains how On The Record has not only led to new readers, but has revived interest from advertisers! She explains why viral reach isn't the goal, and how they think about content serving Pocahontas, and Northwest Iowa.

Chapters:
00:00 - Podcasts Beat Radio
01:21 - Why Print Still Matters
10:01 - Launching a Local News Podcast
19:25 - Podcasting Takes Work
23:55 - Print Plus Podcast Strategy
28:52 - AI Newsroom Future

Zach Lahn is running for Governor in Iowa and he happens to be the very first candidate to be endorsed by RFK JR's MAHA Action organization. In this discussion, Lahn explains his intent to stop subsidies and veto incentives for big ag, even if it means losing party backing entirely.

Links:

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Lahn gives his perspective on President Trump's executive order protecting Glyphosate. Is this the end of the end of the MAHA, MAGA, and GOP alignment on health? Are new battle lines being formed in Iowa and US Politics? Can he convince Iowa to lead the country in regenerative agriculture?

Chapters:

00:00 - Intro and MAHA Endorsement
04:03 - Glyphosate Immunity Fight
10:51 - Iowa First Farm Reforms
16:57 - Break Up Big Ag
19:44 - Regenerative Farming Shift
26:49 - Incentives MAHA Wrap Up