City of Ames’ Podcasts

Latest Episodes:

Ames in Focus: Taking the Plunge with Courtney Kort Sep 01, 2026

Show notes

Summer may be winding down, but swimming in Ames certainly isn’t.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with Ames Parks and Recreation's Recreation Superintendent Courtney Kort to talk about the changing of the seasons for Ames aquatics. Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7, marks the final day of the season at Furman Aquatic Center, followed immediately by the start of regular seasonal operations at the new Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center on Tuesday, Sept. 8.

Courtney takes us on a tour of the new facility and the many ways it was designed to serve swimmers of different ages, interests, and abilities. From the six-lane lap pool and wellness pool to the current channel, zero-depth entry splash pool, body slide, walking area, and community spaces, there’s much more to Fitch than just a place to swim.

They also discuss what residents should know about admission, passes, schedules and programming, along with the community support that helped make the approximately $28 million facility possible and plans to celebrate with an upcoming ribbon cutting and grand opening.

In this episode:

Getting to know Recreation Superintendent Courtney Kort
Wrapping up the 2026 season at Furman Aquatic Center
What changes when Fitch begins its regular indoor season Sept. 8
Exploring the pools, current channel, body slide and other amenities at Fitch
Opportunities for lap swimming, water walking, lessons and fitness
The free indoor walking area
Admission options and aquatics passes
How public and private support helped make Fitch possible
The upcoming ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration
What residents should know before their first visit
What Fitch makes possible for the future of aquatics in Ames

Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7, is the final day of the season at Furman Aquatic Center. The regular indoor season at Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center, 115 N. Elm Ave., begins Tuesday, Sept. 8.

Find schedules, admission information, aquatics programs, and more at CityofAmes.org/Aquatics

From Agenda to Action: What Happened at the August 25 Ames City Council Meeting Aug 28, 2026

Show notes

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, Aug. 25 Ames City Council meeting.

They begin with a proclamation recognizing Water and Wastewater Workers Week and the important work City employees do every day to provide safe, reliable water and wastewater services to the Ames community.

Susan and Mayor Haila also discuss the next steps for the City's data center study committee, including the committee's purpose and how Ames residents can apply to participate.

The conversation then turns to City finances. They look at how new state legislation is affecting the City's financial planning and discuss potential funding options for new Ames Power infrastructure.

Finally, they provide an update on curbside recycling and discuss an issue that has emerged for a select group of residents since the program began.

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: Not Today, Bad Guys! with Officer Nate Rivera Aug 25, 2026

Show notes

Crime prevention doesn't always involve flashing lights or an investigation. Sometimes, it can be as simple as locking your car, recognizing the warning signs of a scam, or speaking up when something doesn't seem right.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with Ames Police Community Resource Officer Nate Rivera to talk about preventable crimes and the everyday steps residents can take to protect themselves, their property, and those around them.

They start with scams, including impersonation calls, romance and grandparent scams, and fake job offers. Nate shares what to do when you suspect someone is trying to scam you, including staying calm, protecting your personal information, ending the conversation, and reporting the incident.

The conversation also looks at theft from vehicles and how simple habits can make your car a less appealing target. Nate explains why locking your doors, removing valuables, parking in well-lit areas, and even locking your vehicle while it's parked in your own driveway can make a difference.

Finally, Bill and Nate discuss the more complex issue of workplace violence, including potential warning signs, the importance of reporting concerns, and how a workplace culture built around awareness, support, and communication can contribute to prevention.

In this episode:

What makes some crimes preventable
Common scams and how to recognize them
What to do if you think you're being targeted by a scam
Simple ways to help prevent theft from vehicles
Everyday habits that can make you and your property less vulnerable
Warning signs of potential workplace violence
Why reporting concerns and speaking up matters
How awareness and small actions can help prevent crime

The goal isn't to live in fear. It's to stay alert, trust your instincts, and take simple steps that can reduce opportunities for crime.

Learn more about the Ames Police Department and crime prevention resources at www.CityofAmes.org.

From Agenda to Action: Preview of the August 25 Ames City Council Meeting Aug 21, 2026

Show notes

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

The meeting will take place on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 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.

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.

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:

• A presentation from Discover Ames regarding the Ames Event Center
• The City's plan for the Data Center Study Committee and its work moving forward
• An update on the City's Climate Action Plan
• A staff report on Senate File 2472 and how changes to Iowa's property tax system could impact Ames and the City's budget

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: Mindfulness Under the Microscope Aug 19, 2026

Show notes

Our minds are busy places. We replay yesterday, worry about tomorrow, jump from one task to another, and sometimes struggle to simply pay attention to what's happening right now.

In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., Kacie Schumann explores mindfulness: what it actually means, where the practice comes from, what research says about its benefits, and how you can incorporate it into everyday life. And no, you don't have to sit cross-legged on the floor saying "ohhhmmm" for 30 minutes.

Kacie looks at research connecting mindfulness with reduced stress, improved sleep, increased focus, and psychological well-being. She also explains why mindfulness isn't about emptying your mind or being perfectly focused. Instead, it's about noticing the present moment without judgment and gently bringing your attention back when your mind inevitably wanders.

Episode Highlights

What Is Mindfulness?
Learn what it means to pay attention to the present moment with curiosity and without judgment, and why a wandering mind doesn't mean you're doing mindfulness "wrong."

Does Mindfulness Actually Work?
Explore what research says about mindfulness and its potential benefits for stress, sleep, focus, anxiety, depression, and overall psychological well-being. Mindfulness isn't a replacement for professional treatment, but research suggests it can be a useful addition to other approaches.

Mindfulness Doesn't Have to Mean Meditation
Mindfulness can happen almost anywhere. Kacie shares simple ways to practice, including mindful breathing, walking, eating, and paying closer attention to everyday experiences.

Try the Five Senses Check-In
Pause and notice five things you can see, four things you can feel, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. It's a simple exercise designed to bring your attention back to the present moment.

Make Everyday Transitions More Mindful
Before starting work, driving home, entering a meeting, or sitting down for dinner, take 30 seconds to notice how you're feeling before moving into the next part of your day.

Find What Works for You
Mindfulness doesn't have to take a lot of time. A few intentional moments throughout the week can be a great place to start.

Resources

Clark University: History of Mindfulness
Learn about the history of mindfulness

The Empirical Status of Mindfulness-Based Interventions
A systematic review of 44 meta-analyses representing more than 300 randomized controlled trials.
Read the research review

Palouse Mindfulness: Free Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Course
Explore the free MBSR course

Sakshi and Dhyana: The Origin of Mindfulness-Based Therapies
Read the article

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: No Sweat! with Claire Eagan Aug 18, 2026

Show notes

Wellness looks different for everyone. For some, it might mean lifting weights or cycling. For others, it could be yoga, dancing, tai chi, or simply finding a way to become a little more active.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with Public Wellness Manager Claire Eagan to explore the wide variety of fitness and wellness opportunities available through Ames Parks and Recreation. With more than 50 fitness classes offered each week, there are options for different interests, experience levels, ages, and fitness goals.

They also discuss resources for those who prefer to work out on their own, including the Community Center weight and cardio rooms, personal training, fitness assessments, and InBody scans. Plus, Claire shares advice for anyone who wants to become more active but isn't quite sure where to begin.

And there's no better time to give something new a try. Free Drop-In Fitness Week runs through Saturday, Aug. 22, with classes available on a first-come, first-served basis. The next six-week fitness session begins Monday, Aug. 24.

In this episode:

The variety of fitness and wellness programs offered through Ames Parks and Recreation
How classes accommodate different experience and intensity levels
Fitness opportunities for older adults, including Fitness for 50+ and SilverSneakers
Weight and cardio room equipment at the Community Center
Personal training, fitness assessments, and InBody scans
How Free Drop-In Fitness Week works and what first-time participants should know
Tips for getting started if exercise feels intimidating
What's ahead for wellness programming in Ames

To explore fitness schedules, programs, registration, and more, visit AmesParkRec.org.

From Agenda to Action: What Happened at the August 11 Ames City Council Meeting Aug 14, 2026

Show notes

Their conversation focuses on three topics from the meeting. First, they discuss plans to move forward with a roundabout at George Washington Carver Avenue and Cameron School Road as part of traffic improvements in northwest Ames.

They also review the City Council's discussion about forming a specialty committee to research the potential environmental impacts of data centers and provide information to help guide future Council discussions.

Finally, Susan and Mayor Haila discuss the plans and specifications for the new Ames Animal Services facility and the next steps toward bringing the project to life.

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: The Road Ahead with Mindy Bryngelson Aug 11, 2026

Show notes

Streets are one of the most visible and heavily used parts of our community, but maintaining them requires far more than filling potholes. Behind every smooth commute is a long-term strategy built on data, planning, and careful investment.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with Municipal Engineer Mindy Bryngelson to explore how the City of Ames manages and maintains its street network. They discuss the City's new RMT pavement data system, how engineers determine whether a street needs maintenance or full reconstruction, and the many factors that influence when and where road projects take place.

From Iowa's challenging weather to long-range capital planning, this conversation provides an inside look at the work that keeps Ames moving safely and efficiently every day.

In this episode:

How the City evaluates the condition of its streets
What the RMT pavement data system is and how it improves decision-making
The difference between street maintenance, rehabilitation, and reconstruction
How projects are prioritized based on condition, traffic, and available funding
The challenges of maintaining streets through Iowa's changing seasons
Why road construction happens when it does and what residents can expect

To learn more about current street projects and other City initiatives, visit CityofAmes.org.

From Agenda to Action: Preview of the August 11 Ames City Council Meeting Aug 07, 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, July 28, beginning with the Ames Conference Board meeting at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Ames City Council meeting at 6 p.m. in the Ames City Hall Council Chambers, located at 515 Clark Ave.

In this episode, we discuss:

• A presentation on the Child Care Feasibility Study, including local data and a roadmap for strengthening child care options in Ames
• Proposed direction to staff regarding data center research and a timeline for the current pause on new data center development
• Contracts for major equipment at the Ames Municipal Energy Center, following discussion during the July 21 City Council Workshop
• Planned improvements to the intersection of 13th Street and Grand Avenue to enhance safety and traffic operations

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: Building Better Workdays with Kacie Schumann Aug 05, 2026

Show notes

Wellness at work is about more than fitness programs or healthy snacks in the break room. It is about creating an environment where employees can thrive, feel supported, and bring their best selves to work every day.

In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., host Bailey Dingfield sits down with fellow host Kacie Schumann, Health Promotions Coordinator for the City of Ames, to turn the tables and learn more about the person behind the podcast. Kacie shares how she found her passion for health promotion, what her role looks like behind the scenes, and why employee well-being plays such an important role in building healthy organizations and communities.

The conversation explores the many dimensions of workplace wellness, including the unique challenges faced by employees who work directly with the public, common misconceptions about health and wellness, and practical ways organizations can foster a culture where employees feel supported and empowered to succeed.

As Bailey wraps up her internship with the City of Ames, this episode also marks her final appearance as co-host of Live Well. Be Well. Thank you, Bailey, for bringing curiosity, thoughtful conversations, and a passion for wellness to the podcast. We wish you all the best in your next adventure.

Episode Highlights

Getting to Know Kacie
Kacie shares her journey into health promotion, what inspired her career, and what she enjoys most about helping others improve their well-being.

What Does a Health Promotions Coordinator Do?
An inside look at the variety of programs, initiatives, and partnerships that help promote employee wellness across the City of Ames.

Practicing What You Promote
Kacie discusses the habits and routines she uses to care for her own physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

The Connection Between Work and Wellness
A conversation about how workplace culture, personal health, and overall well-being are closely interconnected.

Supporting Public-Facing Employees
The discussion explores the unique wellness challenges experienced by employees who regularly serve the public and strategies for building resilience.

Breaking Wellness Myths
Kacie addresses common misconceptions about health and wellness and explains why there is no one-size-fits-all approach to living well.

Building a Healthier Workplace
The episode concludes with a look at the goals of employee wellness programs and how investing in people benefits both employees and the organization as a whole.

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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