Rural America
Sitting in a chair overlooking a hollow, Kurt Ullrich writes about his encounters with the people, wildlife, and nature of the rural Midwest. He shares those reflections in a published column titled ”Rural America.” Read by Kurt, this is a collection of those writings. Enjoy. Artwork designed in collaboration between Bill Doyle and Felicia Carner.
Listen on:
Episodes

4 days ago
4 days ago
3 min
In The Iowa State Fair, Kurt opens the barn doors of “History,” a chapter where the butter cow, tractor pulls, motorhomes, cattle, and stories abound as precise, clear memories.
In 2013, Kurt set out to chronicle the magic of the Iowa State Fair in words and black and white photographs.

4 days ago
4 days ago
3 min
On a day in July (2026) -
Kurt takes the road to where he belongs, among diminutive and sprinting creatures, and alongside classmates at a high school reunion yet to come.

4 days ago
4 days ago
3 min
On a day in February (2026) -
Silence and moonbeams fill the hollow, while dust gathers on well-traveled ice skates in Kurt’s basement.

4 days ago
4 days ago
3 min
On a day in August (2026) -
Kurt paints a memory of his mother’s hands, the ritual of school supply lists, and conversations with creatures in the hollow.

Oct 18, 2025
Oct 18, 2025
3 min
On a day in September (2025) -
Kurt finds affirmation in a letter, a smile, and on the field he cross for his wife.

Oct 18, 2025
Oct 18, 2025
3 min
On a day in August (2025) -
Kurt is joined by a passenger as he observes the fading of summer—the purple blooms of thistle plants, the electric buzzing of cicadas, and the swirling gold leaves.

Oct 15, 2025
Oct 15, 2025
3 min
On a day in August (2025) -
Kurt hears the far too close yipping of coyotes, retires tethered pages of his past, and prepares remarks about the one who drove away the cold.

Aug 26, 2025
Aug 26, 2025
3 min
On a day in April (2025) -
Kurt portrays a looming and eager Luna, receives a reminder that the serene hollow nestles near the modern world, and offers strength through old memories.

Aug 26, 2025
Aug 26, 2025
3 min
On a day in September (2023) -
Kurt is interrupted by a menacing grey squirrel, shares the pleasantry of "tiny human speeches," and offers a wish for the nearing autumn.

Aug 26, 2025
Aug 26, 2025
3 min
On a day in June (2021) -
Kurt outlines grain augers at dusk, reconnects with once-acquaintances, and awaits the hours he’ll spend on his tractor, singing in full voice.


