Fair Through the Years: Memories That Shaped the Iowa State Fair

In this April episode of the Iowa State Fair Podcast, hosts Maxwell and Amy lean into one of the show’s greatest strengths: Iowa State Fair Memories. And this time, the stories come from three voices who have lived the fair from deeply personal and very different angles—Roger Miller, Jan Higgins, and John Sample.

Roger Miller opens the episode with a remarkable perspective shaped by more than five decades of hands-on work at the fair. From his early days learning the ropes in 1970 to leading crews of young workers preparing buildings and setting up major events, Roger reflects on how the fairgrounds have evolved—from unairconditioned structures to modern facilities—while emphasizing the enduring value of hard work, mentorship, and community.

Jan Higgins brings a career-spanning view of leadership and legacy. Starting as a teenager taking tickets at Teen Town, she rose through the ranks to become Assistant Manager of the Iowa State Fair. Along the way, she helped shape operations, oversee entertainment, and even played a role in the early career of future CEO Jeremy Parsons. Her stories highlight both the behind-the-scenes challenges and the pride that comes with helping the fair grow into a source of statewide pride.

John Sample rounds out the episode with warmth, humor, and unmatched longevity, having attended 77 consecutive fairs. A self-proclaimed “Mr. Positive,” John shares memories from sneaking into the fair as a kid to later supporting fair operations through his career in radio communications. His reflections capture the magic of the fair as a place where generations gather, traditions endure, and smiles are universal.

Together, these stories paint a vivid picture of the Iowa State Fair—not just as an event, but as a lifelong connection.