City of Ames’ Podcasts

Latest Episodes:

From Agenda to Action: What Happened at the September 22 Ames City Council Meeting Sep 25, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Director Susan Gwiasda sits down with Ames Mayor John Haila to recap key discussions and decisions from the Tuesday, Sept. 22 Ames City Council meeting.

They begin with housing in Ames, focusing on decisions involving Scholl Road and Ontario Street. Mayor Haila explains what City Council approved and how these decisions fit into the broader conversation about creating additional housing opportunities and supporting residential development in Ames.

The conversation then turns to the new Sip and Stroll Social District. Following previous Council discussions, the ordinance establishing the district moved forward. Susan and Mayor Haila talk about what was approved, how the social district will work, and what residents and businesses should know.

Next, they discuss the newly appointed members of the Resident Data Center Study Committee. Mayor Haila explains the role of the committee and how its members will help examine issues related to data center development in Ames. Learn more about the committee and follow its work at www.CityofAmes.org/DataCenter.

Finally, they look at traffic on Lincoln Way, where City Council extended the scope of a planned traffic study to include Lincoln Way from Grand Avenue to University Boulevard. The expanded study will provide a broader look at traffic conditions along this important corridor.

From creating opportunities for new housing to establishing the Sip and Stroll Social District, studying data centers, and taking a closer look at Lincoln Way, this episode breaks down several decisions from a busy City Council meeting and what they could mean for the Ames 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 page
• 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.

Ames in Focus: Conservation with Layne Fober Sep 22, 2026

Show notes

When temperatures climb, electricity use tends to climb right along with them. This summer, Ames Electric Services asked customers to help conserve energy during periods of high demand, and Ames customers responded.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with City of Ames Energy Services Coordinator Layne Fober to say thank you and to explore why those individual conservation efforts can make a difference for Ames' locally owned electric utility.

Layne explains what happens when electricity demand reaches its peak, why reducing that peak can help control costs, and how hundreds or thousands of customers making small changes at the same time can have a much bigger impact.

But energy conservation isn't just for the hottest days of summer. Bill and Layne talk about practical ways to use energy more efficiently throughout the year, from adjusting the thermostat and changing when you run appliances to reducing air leaks, checking insulation, replacing filters, and developing simple habits around the house.

They also take a closer look at the free home energy audits available to Ames Electric customers. Layne explains what happens during an audit, how tools like a blower door test can help identify problems, and how the results can help homeowners prioritize improvements.

And if the thought of making your home more energy efficient immediately has you seeing dollar signs, don't panic. The conversation includes ideas for making a difference whether you have nothing to spend, $100 to work with, or you're ready to tackle a larger project.

In this episode:

Why Ames Electric asks customers to conserve during peak demand
How individual conservation efforts add up across the community
The connection between peak demand and electric costs
Simple ways to conserve energy at home
Why when you use electricity can matter
Reducing air leaks and improving home efficiency
Free home energy audits for Ames Electric customers
Energy-saving options for different budgets
Preparing your home for colder weather
Building energy-saving habits that work year-round

Energy conservation doesn't have to mean sitting in the dark or making major changes to your lifestyle. Small decisions can add up, helping you use energy more efficiently while supporting Ames' locally owned electric utility.

Ames Electric customers interested in learning more about energy efficiency or signing up for a free home energy audit can contact Energy Services Coordinator Layne Fober at Layne.Fober@CityofAmes.org or 515-239-5177, or visit CityofAmes.org/Electric.

From Agenda to Action: Preview of the September 22 Ames City Council Meeting Sep 18, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Ames Mayor John Haila to preview several key items scheduled for discussion at the upcoming Ames City Council meeting.

The meeting will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 6 p.m. in the Ames City Hall Council Chambers, located at 515 Clark Ave. Residents can attend in person or watch the meeting live on the City's YouTube and Facebook pages.

Bill and Mayor Haila take a look at several items coming before Council, including proposed property rezoning, an ordinance for a new social district, appointments to the new Data Center Committee, and a staff report involving a potential traffic study.

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, without having to read through hundreds of pages of agenda materials.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Proposed property rezoning
• A new social district ordinance
• The new Data Center Committee
• A potential traffic study

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.

Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public.

Are there agenda items or City Council topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode? Send us an email at eric.gebhart@CityofAmes.org.

Watch City Council meetings live or on demand on the City's YouTube page.

View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil.

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.

Live Well, Be Well: Don't Get Burned with Michelle Richert Sep 16, 2026

Show notes

Protecting yourself from the sun is about more than avoiding a painful sunburn. Sun exposure can have long-term effects on your health, including increasing your risk of skin cancer.

In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., host Kacie Schumann continues our two-part series on sun safety with Michelle Richert, a nurse and resource coordinator at the Bliss Cancer Center at Mary Greeley Medical Center. Michelle brings a health care perspective to the conversation, sharing information about skin cancer prevention, sun protection, and recognizing when something on your skin may need a closer look.

The conversation explores who is most at risk for skin cancer, steps you can take to protect yourself and your family, and what to consider when choosing and using sunscreen. Michelle and Kacie also tackle some common misconceptions about sun exposure, including whether you can get burned on cloudy or winter days and whether a "base tan" actually provides protection.

Episode Highlights

Sun Safety and Skin Cancer
Michelle discusses her work at the Bliss Cancer Center, how skin cancer impacts Iowans, and programs available to help educate people about sun safety.

Who Is Most at Risk?
While sun protection is important for everyone, some people face a greater risk of developing skin cancer. Michelle explains some of the factors that can increase that risk.

Protecting Yourself from the Sun
From sunscreen and SPF to other ways of limiting sun exposure, the conversation covers practical steps people can take to protect their skin while still enjoying time outdoors.

Sun Safety for All Ages
Kids, older adults, and other populations may have different needs when spending time outdoors. Michelle shares considerations for keeping everyone safer in the sun and heat.

Sun Safety Myths and Misconceptions
Can you get a sunburn when it's cloudy? What about during an Iowa winter? Does a "base tan" help protect you? Kacie and Michelle sort through some common beliefs about tanning and sun exposure.

Knowing What to Look For
Early detection matters. Michelle discusses warning signs of skin cancer and walks through the ABCDEs of melanoma, helping listeners understand changes in their skin that may warrant a conversation with a health care provider.

This is part two of our two-part series on sun safety. Whether you're working outside, spending a day at the pool, enjoying a park, or just going about your daily routine, protecting your skin is an important part of staying healthy.

For more information and resources about melanoma prevention, detection, diagnosis, and treatment, visit the AIM at Melanoma Foundation.

Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast? Send suggestions to Kacie.Schumann@CityofAmes.org

Ames in Focus: Badges? We Don't Need...Wait...Yes, We Do with Major Dan Walter Sep 15, 2026

Show notes

When you picture a police officer, you may have a certain image in mind. But there’s no single background, personality, or career path that makes someone a good fit for law enforcement.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with Ames Police Department Major Dan Walter to talk about what it takes to become an Ames Police Officer and why people who may have never considered a career in law enforcement might want to take a closer look.

Dan shares his own path into law enforcement and what has kept him with the Ames Police Department throughout his career. Then, the conversation turns to recruitment, including the qualities the department looks for in applicants, the importance of communication and problem-solving, and why a criminal justice degree or previous law enforcement experience isn't necessarily required.

Bill and Dan also walk through the hiring process, from applying and completing testing to the background investigation and physical requirements. They explore what happens after someone is hired, including academy training, field training, and the process of preparing a new officer to work independently in the Ames community.

The conversation also looks at what makes policing in Ames unique, how the profession continues to change, and the variety of assignments, specialties, training, and advancement opportunities available throughout an officer's career.

In this episode:

Major Dan Walter's path into law enforcement and the Ames Police Department
What qualities make someone a good police officer
Why communication, judgment, empathy, teamwork, and problem-solving matter
Basic qualifications for becoming an Ames Police Officer
Why applicants from different educational and professional backgrounds should consider applying
What to expect during the hiring and background investigation process
Physical requirements and preparation
What happens after an officer is hired
Academy and field training for new officers
What makes policing in Ames unique
Career opportunities, specialties, and advancement within the department
Ways to learn more about law enforcement before deciding to apply
Advice for someone considering a career as an Ames Police Officer

You might be surprised by how many skills you've developed in other jobs, classrooms, or life experiences that could translate to a career in law enforcement.

If you're interested in learning more about becoming an Ames Police Officer, including current openings, qualifications, benefits, and the application process, visit CityofAmes.org/Jobs.

From Agenda to Action: What Happened at the September 8 Ames City Council Meeting Sep 11, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications Specialist Bill Gebhart sits down with Ames Mayor John Haila to recap key discussions and decisions from the Tuesday, Sept. 8 Ames City Council meeting.

They begin with urban deer management, as City Council approved a new approach to managing the deer population within Ames. Mayor Haila explains what was approved, why the issue has become a concern, and what residents should know moving forward.

The conversation then turns to a proposed Sip and Stroll Social District in Ames. Bill and Mayor Haila discuss what a social district is, how the proposal would work, and what Council considered. The proposal will return to City Council at its next meeting for the first reading of the ordinance.

They also look at several planning and housing items aimed at moving housing development in Ames forward. The discussion explores some of the steps the City is taking to encourage new housing opportunities and address barriers to development.

From managing the urban deer population to considering a new way to experience parts of Ames to creating more opportunities for housing, this episode takes a closer look at how City Council decisions and discussions can shape 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 page
• 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.

Live Well, Be Well: Don't Get Burned with Justin Clausen Sep 09, 2026

Show notes

Spending time outdoors can be great for your health and well-being, but when the temperatures rise and the sun is beating down, staying safe becomes just as important as staying active.

In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., host Kacie Schumann sits down with City of Ames Public Works Director Justin Clausen for part one of a two-part series focused on sun safety. Justin shares a perspective familiar to many Public Works employees whose jobs require them to spend long hours outdoors, even during the hottest days of an Iowa summer.

The conversation explores the challenges outdoor workers face, how employees prepare for hot weather, and the steps they can take to protect themselves from heat and sun exposure. Justin and Kacie also discuss recognizing the warning signs of heat-related illness, responding when someone begins experiencing symptoms, and practical precautions anyone can use when spending extended time outdoors.

Episode Highlights

Working in the Summer Heat
For many Public Works employees, staying inside when temperatures climb isn't an option. Justin discusses some of the unique challenges employees face while working outdoors.

Putting Safety First
How do you keep employees safe when the work still needs to get done? Justin talks about the practices used to help employees manage heat and sun exposure on the job.

Recognizing Heat Illness
Knowing the warning signs can make a difference. The conversation covers symptoms outdoor workers should watch for and how employees can respond when someone begins experiencing heat-related illness.

Preparing for Time in the Sun
Justin shares some of the ways employees protect themselves and discusses items and precautions that can also help anyone planning to spend an extended period outdoors.

Sun Safety Myths and Misconceptions
From sunscreen to hot weather, Kacie and Justin discuss some of the common misconceptions surrounding heat and sun safety.

Lessons for All of Us
You don't have to work outdoors for a living to benefit from the practices used by people who do. Whether you're working in the yard, exercising, attending an outdoor event, or simply enjoying a sunny day, planning ahead can help you stay safer in the heat.

This is part one of a two-part series on sun safety. Stay tuned for part two as Live Well. Be Well. continues the conversation about protecting yourself while enjoying the outdoors.

Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast? Send suggestions to Kacie.Schumann@CityofAmes.org

Ames in Focus: What Lies Beneath with Mindy Bryngelson Sep 08, 2026

Show notes

Most of us don’t spend much time thinking about what happens after we turn on the faucet or flush the toilet. And really, that’s probably a good thing.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart is joined by Ames Municipal Engineer Mindy Bryngelson to explore two essential systems working beneath our feet every day: Ames’ water distribution system and sanitary sewer collection system.

Mindy breaks down how these underground networks deliver water to homes and businesses and carry wastewater away for treatment. But keeping those systems working reliably takes much more than pipes in the ground. Aging infrastructure, maintenance, replacement projects, funding, and a growing community all play a role in planning for the future.

The conversation also tackles an important distinction residents may not always realize: where the City’s responsibility ends and a property owner’s begins. Mindy explains service lines and sewer laterals, some of the common problems homeowners can encounter, and what residents should know about lead service lines.

In this episode:

How Ames’ water distribution system works
What happens after wastewater leaves your home
The challenges of maintaining aging underground infrastructure
How the City prioritizes maintenance and replacement projects
Where City responsibility ends and property owner responsibility begins
Common problems with private water and sewer service lines
What Ames residents should know about lead service lines
How water and sewer infrastructure improvements are funded
Planning for growth while maintaining the systems Ames relies on today
The “unsung heroes” of Ames’ underground infrastructure

The next time you turn on the tap or flush the toilet, remember there’s an entire network working behind the scenes to make something remarkably complicated feel incredibly simple.

Learn more about City services and infrastructure projects at CityofAmes.org.

From Agenda to Action: Preview of the Sept. 8 City Council Meeting Sep 04, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, host Bill Gebhart is joined by Assistant City Manager Pa Vang Goldbeck to preview key items scheduled for discussion at the upcoming Ames City Council meeting.

The meeting will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 8, at 6 p.m. in the Ames City Hall Council Chambers, located at 515 Clark Ave. Residents can attend in person or watch the meeting live on the City's YouTube and Facebook pages.

We start with the Consent Agenda, where several upcoming community events are represented. Bill and Pa highlight the Sip and Stroll District, Ames High School Homecoming, Iowa State University Homecoming, and the Ames Regional Economic Alliance Fall Classic before moving into some of the larger discussion items on the agenda.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Upcoming community events included in the Consent Agenda, including the Sip and Stroll District, Ames High School Homecoming, ISU Homecoming, and the Ames Regional Economic Alliance Fall Classic
• Proposed Urban Renewal Plan amendments and changes involving Tax Increment Financing (TIF) in response to Senate File 2472
• Ordinances related to the City's Building and Fire Codes
• An ordinance related to the Ames Human Relations Commission

Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public.

Are there agenda items or City Council topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode? Send us an email at eric.gebhart@CityofAmes.org.

Watch City Council meetings live or on demand on the City's YouTube page.

View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil.

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.

Live Well, Be Well: The Next Chapter of Community Wellness with Claire Eagan Sep 02, 2026

Show notes

Wellness is about more than exercise. It is about finding activities you enjoy, building healthy habits, connecting with others, and discovering what helps you feel your best.

In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., host Kacie Schumann sits down with Claire Eagan, the new Public Wellness Manager with Ames Parks and Recreation. Claire shares what brought her to the world of fitness and wellness, what interested her in joining the City of Ames, and what excites her about helping people throughout the community live healthier lives.

Claire also talks about stepping into a role previously held by longtime Public Wellness Manager Nancy Shaw, what she has learned during her first few months on the job, and the ideas and perspectives she hopes to bring to the position.

Episode Highlights

Meet Claire Eagan
Get to know Claire, her previous experiences, and what inspired her to pursue a career focused on fitness and wellness.

Finding Your Own Version of Wellness
Wellness looks different for everyone. Claire discusses the areas she is passionate about and how she incorporates wellness into her own everyday life.

Building a Healthier Ames
Claire shares what excites her about working with the Ames community and some of the qualities that make Ames a great place to pursue a healthy lifestyle.

More Than Exercise
Recreation programs can support physical health, mental well-being, social connections, and much more. The conversation explores the broader role recreation can play in our lives.

Taking the First Step
Want to improve your well-being but aren't sure where to begin? Claire offers advice for starting small and for anyone who might feel a little nervous about trying a new Parks and Recreation class or activity.

Stepping Into a New Role
Claire reflects on following longtime Public Wellness Manager Nancy Shaw, what she has learned during the transition, and what she hopes to bring to the role.

Looking to the Future of Wellness
What could community wellness look like in the years and decades ahead? Claire shares some of the changes she would like to see as the field continues to evolve.

Ready to find an activity that's right for you? Explore the full lineup of Ames Parks and Recreation classes, programs, and activities at AmesParkRec.org

Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast? Send suggestions to Kacie.Schumann@CityofAmes.org

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