John Beckord is a lifelong musician, an inductee into the Iowa Rock‘n’Roll Hall of Fame, and a songwriter recording music in his home studio with no regard for its commercial appeal. John is a retired non-profit association executive with expertise in economic development. Since retiring in 2021, he has become an artisan sourdough bread maker who gives away the bread he makes to family, friends, and a homeless men’s shelter. John is also a furiously zealous husband, father, and grandfather whom his grandkids call Papa John. His family has always cherished his storytelling, which inspired him to write his debut children’s book.