City of Ames’ Podcasts

City of Ames, Iowa
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The City of Ames Podcast Network is a collection of shows designed to help residents better understand, connect with, and participate in life in Ames. Rather than following a single format, the network brings together a variety of conversations that blend civic information, behind-the-scenes insight, community education, and personality-driven storytelling. Each podcast takes a more approachable, conversational tone, going beyond basic announcements to explore why topics matter, who is involved, and how they impact everyday life in the community. Get more information about things happening in Ames at www.CityofAmes.org

  1. Live Well, Be Well: Find You People. Find Your Place. With Casandra Eames.

    1D AGO

    Live Well, Be Well: Find You People. Find Your Place. With Casandra Eames.

    Community is more than just where you live. It is how you connect, belong, and feel supported. In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., hosts Kacie Schumann and Bailey Dingfield sit down with Casandra Eames, Engagement Coordinator for the City of Ames, to talk about community wellness and what it really means to build a thriving, connected community. From her journey into working with the City to practical ways to stay engaged, Casandra shares insight on why connection matters and how small, everyday interactions can make a big difference. The conversation also highlights how the City of Ames is actively creating opportunities for connection, including the upcoming Neighborhood Connections Initiative and its Road Trip through Ames. Keep an eye out for when a neighborhood block party might be coming your way. Episode Highlights Casandra’s Journey to Community Engagement Casandra shares how her passion for working with people led her to her role with the City of Ames and why it is such a natural fit. What Is Community Wellness? A conversation about the meaning of community wellness and the key factors that help individuals and neighborhoods thrive. Why Connection Matters The hosts and Casandra discuss the importance of relationships, belonging, and staying engaged in your community. Finding Your Third Place What it means to find your “third place” and how having a go-to spot outside of home and work can strengthen your sense of connection. Building Stronger Neighborhoods Casandra shares her vision for bringing back strong, connected neighborhoods and why that matters for the future of Ames. How the City Is Helping You Connect A look at programs and initiatives designed to bring people together, including the Neighborhood Connections Initiative and the Road Trip events happening across Ames. Simple Ways to Stay Connected Ideas and encouragement for getting involved, meeting people, and building stronger connections right here in Ames. Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast? Send suggestions to Kacie.Schumann@CityofAmes.org.

    21 min
  2. Ames in Focus: More Than Books with Brianne Anderson and Danielle Ziegler

    2D AGO

    Ames in Focus: More Than Books with Brianne Anderson and Danielle Ziegler

    Summer at the Ames Public Library is more than just books. It is a hub of activity, learning, and connection for all ages. In this episode, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Brianne Anderson, Youth Services Manager, and Danielle Ziegler, Youth Librarian, to explore how the library transforms during the summer months. From the popular Summer Reading Program to weekly events and special celebrations, they share how the library supports families, prevents summer learning loss, and creates meaningful experiences for the community. Episode Highlights Why Summer Matters at the Library A look at how programming expands during the summer to meet the needs of families when school is out and routines change. Summer Reading Program Explained How it works, who can participate (all ages), and how it encourages consistent reading through fun incentives. Combating the “Summer Slide” Why continued reading during the summer is critical for maintaining learning and how the library helps support it. Special Events and Celebrations Details on Smyles’ 20th anniversary celebration on June 9 and what families can expect. Terrific Tuesdays Weekly performances and events that bring excitement to the library every Tuesday morning. Programming for Everyone How the library designs inclusive activities that appeal to a wide range of ages and interests. A Welcoming Community Space Encouragement for new and returning visitors to explore everything the library has to offer this summer. Key Takeaways The library becomes a central gathering place for families during the summer. The Summer Reading Program supports learning while keeping things fun and engaging. Programs and events are intentionally designed to be inclusive and accessible to all ages. The Ames Public Library plays a vital role in preventing summer learning loss and strengthening community connections. Looking for ways to stay engaged, entertained, and cool this summer? The Ames Public Library has something for everyone. Explore programs, sign up for the Summer Reading Program, and plan your visit at www.AmesPublicLibrary.org. Don’t forget to subscribe to Ames in Focus, follow along on social media, and leave a review to help others discover the show.

    24 min
  3. From Agenda to Action: What Happened at the May 12 Ames City Council Meeting

    5D AGO

    From Agenda to Action: What Happened at the May 12 Ames City Council Meeting

    In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda sits down with Mayor John Haila to recap key discussions and decisions from the Tuesday, May 12 Ames City Council meeting. Their conversation highlights several topics related to growth, planning, and community services. Susan and Mayor Haila break down what was discussed, why it matters, and how these decisions may impact residents across Ames. We discuss: • The newly appointed Ex-Officio representative from Iowa State University and the role this position plays in connecting the university and the community • Development and traffic planning considerations along Stange Road in the Somerset area • Requests and discussion surrounding a proposed four story apartment complex between Downtown and Old Town • Plans for a new facility for Ames Animal Services and what it means for the future of animal care in the community From Agenda to Action is designed to give residents a clearer understanding of how City Council discussions translate into real world impacts across Ames. Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public. Get involved: Watch meetings live or on demand on the City’s YouTube View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil Have a topic you would like us to cover in a future episode? Email Eric.Gebhart@CityofAmes.org From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

    11 min
  4. Ames in Focus: Branching Out with Gabriele Edwards.

    MAY 12

    Ames in Focus: Branching Out with Gabriele Edwards.

    In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with City Forester Gabriele Edwards to talk about one of the simplest ways residents can make a lasting impact: planting trees. Spring is prime time for tree planting, but success starts long before the shovel hits the ground. Gabriele walks listeners through how to choose the right tree, pick the best location, and avoid common mistakes that can affect long term growth. From proper planting techniques to early care and maintenance, this episode offers practical guidance for anyone ready to put down roots. Beyond aesthetics, trees play a vital role in the health of the community, providing shade, improving air quality, managing stormwater, and contributing to long term sustainability. As discussed in the episode, planting a tree is not just about today, it is an investment in the future. Episode Highlights Why spring is one of the best times to plant trees What to consider before choosing a tree including location, space, sunlight, and utilities How to select the right species for your yard and community Step by step basics of proper tree planting Early care tips including watering, mulching, and monitoring Common tree planting mistakes and how to avoid them The long term environmental and economic benefits of trees Planting a tree is a small action with long term impact. Whether you are adding one to your yard or joining a community event, you are helping Ames grow today and for generations to come.

    23 min
  5. From Agenda to Action: Preview of the Ames City Council Meeting for Tuesday, May 12

    MAY 8

    From Agenda to Action: Preview of the Ames City Council Meeting for Tuesday, May 12

    In this episode of From Agenda to Action, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Mayor John Haila to preview key items scheduled for discussion at the upcoming Ames City Council meeting. The meeting will take place on Tuesday, May 12, beginning at 6 p.m. in the Ames City Hall Council Chambers, located at 515 Clark Ave. This episode highlights several agenda items that may be of interest to residents and the community. While it does not cover every topic, it offers a closer look at a few of the discussions Council will be considering and what they could mean for Ames. Think of it as your meeting preview, minus the need to bring a chair. From Agenda to Action is designed to give listeners a clearer understanding of what is on the agenda, what decisions Council will be asked to make, and how those decisions may impact daily life in Ames. In this episode, we discuss: • The introduction of a new Ex-Officio role and what it means for Council collaboration • Planning considerations for Stange Road in the Somerset area • Updates and discussions related to the Ames Animal Shelter • Upcoming Planning and Housing items shaping future development in Ames Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public. Have a question or topic you would like covered? Are there agenda items or City Council topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode? Send us an email at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil Important note City Council agendas may change up to 24 hours before the meeting time. This podcast reflects the agenda as it exists at the time of recording. From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

    15 min
  6. Live Well, Be Well: Burnout, but We're Fine. Totally Fine.

    MAY 6

    Live Well, Be Well: Burnout, but We're Fine. Totally Fine.

    Burnout is more than a rough week or needing an extra cup of coffee to get through the day. In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., hosts Kacie Schumann and Bailey Dingfield take a closer look at what burnout really is, what causes it, and how to recognize it before it takes a bigger toll. The bottom line: burnout is not a personal failure. It is often a response to prolonged stress, and there are ways to prevent it and recover from it. Episode Highlights What Is Burnout? A breakdown of burnout as a recognized occupational phenomenon, including key components like exhaustion, detachment, and reduced sense of accomplishment. Common Causes of Burnout From heavy workloads and lack of control to unclear expectations and work life imbalance, the hosts walk through some of the most common contributors in the workplace. Who Is Most Affected? Burnout can impact anyone, but it is often more common in fields like healthcare, education, social work, and first response. The episode also highlights how neurodivergent individuals may experience additional challenges in certain environments. The Biology Behind Burnout Burnout is not just emotional. Kacie and Bailey explore how chronic stress affects the body, including hormone imbalance, nervous system disruption, and impacts on sleep and overall health. Warning Signs to Watch For Learn how to recognize burnout early, including chronic fatigue, irritability, lack of motivation, physical symptoms, and withdrawal from others. How Employers Can Help A look at the role workplaces play in preventing burnout through consistency, clear communication, flexibility, and building trust with employees. Practical Ways to Prevent Burnout Simple, realistic strategies like setting boundaries, prioritizing tasks, practicing mindfulness, getting quality sleep, staying active, and asking for help when needed. What Research Says About Burnout The hosts discuss findings that show workplace and organizational changes can reduce burnout, especially when addressing working conditions rather than focusing only on individuals. Resources Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI) Free 5 minute screening tool https://www.mentalhealthamerica.net Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast? Send suggestions to Kacie.Schumann@CityofAmes.org

    20 min
  7. Ames in Focus: Big Dreams, Bigger Parks with Keith Abraham

    MAY 5

    Ames in Focus: Big Dreams, Bigger Parks with Keith Abraham

    What makes a great park and how do you plan one that serves a growing community for decades to come? In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Keith Abraham, Director of Ames Parks and Recreation, to talk about the vision behind Ontario Community Park, a new park planned for the north side of Ames. From long-range planning and community input to balancing big ideas with practical realities, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how future recreation spaces take shape. Whether you are a frequent park visitor or simply curious about how Ames continues to grow, this episode highlights the role parks play in building a vibrant, connected community. Episode Highlights Why Ames continues to invest in new parks as the community grows What defines a community park compared to a neighborhood park The vision and proposed location for Ontario Community Park How resident feedback helps shape park design and amenities Balancing community ideas with budget, maintenance, and long-term sustainability Where the project currently stands and what timeline to expect How parks contribute to quality of life and future development in Ames Keith’s personal excitement about the project Key Takeaways Parks are planned with a long-term perspective, often years in advance of construction Community parks serve a broader audience and typically include larger, more diverse amenities Public engagement is a critical part of shaping spaces that reflect community needs Thoughtful planning helps ensure parks remain sustainable, accessible, and impactful over time Ontario Community Park represents an investment in the future growth and livability of Ames Learn More To stay updated on Ontario Community Park and other projects, visit the City of Ames website for updates and opportunities to provide feedback. Thanks for listening to Ames in Focus. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow and share it with others who care about the future of our community.

    25 min
  8. From Agenda to Action: What Happened at the Ames City Council April 28 Meeting

    MAY 1

    From Agenda to Action: What Happened at the Ames City Council April 28 Meeting

    In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda sits down with John Haila to recap key discussions and decisions from the Tuesday, April 28 Ames City Council meeting. Their conversation highlights important topics related to community growth and essential utility services. Susan and Mayor Haila walk through what was discussed, why it matters, and how these decisions impact residents across Ames. In this episode, we discuss: The proposed Baker Subdivision and what it means for future development in Ames Updates and considerations related to the City’s water system Sewer-related agenda items and ongoing infrastructure needs From Agenda to Action is designed to give residents a clearer understanding of how City Council discussions translate into real world impacts across Ames. Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public. Get involved: Watch meetings live or on demand on the City’s YouTube View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil Have a topic you would like us to cover in a future episode? Email Eric.Gebhart@CityofAmes.org From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

    6 min
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About

The City of Ames Podcast Network is a collection of shows designed to help residents better understand, connect with, and participate in life in Ames. Rather than following a single format, the network brings together a variety of conversations that blend civic information, behind-the-scenes insight, community education, and personality-driven storytelling. Each podcast takes a more approachable, conversational tone, going beyond basic announcements to explore why topics matter, who is involved, and how they impact everyday life in the community. Get more information about things happening in Ames at www.CityofAmes.org

Information

  • Creator
    City of Ames, Iowa
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    City of Ames’ Podcasts

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