Iowa popcorn maker shares kernels of buttery wisdom

A year into his leadership at American Pop Corn Co., Steve Huisenga has overseen the journey of billions of kernels from Iowa fields to grocery shelves and movie theaters under the Jolly Time brand. As the first non-Smith to lead the 110-year-old company, he continues its tradition of quality—sorting kernels for size, density, and color to ensure the perfect pop.

From the yellow flakes favored by theaters to the white popcorn prized by connoisseurs, Jolly Time’s legacy thrives on careful farming and innovation. And while new flavors take over a year to develop, the company remains focused on one simple goal: making popcorn that lives up to its name.