City of Ames’ Podcasts

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 YouTubeView 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: 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.

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 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
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.

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 BurnoutFrom 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 BurnoutBurnout 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 ForLearn how to recognize burnout early, including chronic fatigue, irritability, lack of motivation, physical symptoms, and withdrawal from others.
How Employers Can HelpA look at the role workplaces play in preventing burnout through consistency, clear communication, flexibility, and building trust with employees.
Practical Ways to Prevent BurnoutSimple, realistic strategies like setting boundaries, prioritizing tasks, practicing mindfulness, getting quality sleep, staying active, and asking for help when needed.
What Research Says About BurnoutThe 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

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.

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 YouTubeView 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: Touch Grass, Ames with Joshua Thompson

With spring in full swing, it’s the perfect time to explore everything Ames parks have to offer. In this episode, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Parks Superintendent Joshua Thompson from Ames Parks and Recreation to talk about the work behind maintaining Ames’ park system, seasonal preparations, and exciting updates for the community.
Joshua shares insights into his role, what it takes to keep parks running smoothly during the busiest months, and highlights one of Ames’ most popular destinations, Ada Hayden Heritage Park. The conversation also covers a newly completed trail, updated usage guidelines, and tips for safely sharing park spaces with others.
Whether you’re a frequent park-goer or just looking for a reason to get outside, this episode offers a helpful look at how to make the most of Ames’ outdoor spaces.
Episode Highlights
Joshua Thompson’s path to becoming Parks Superintendent
Behind the scenes of managing Ames’ parks system
Spring and summer park preparation and maintenance
Spotlight on Ada Hayden Heritage Park and what makes it unique
Overview of the new trail addition and its benefits
Updated trail guidelines, including pedestrian and wheeled traffic lanes
Why trail etiquette and safety measures matter
Tips for respecting parks, nature, and fellow visitors
Programs, improvements, and hidden gems across Ames parks
Encouragement for residents to explore local outdoor spaces
Learn more about parks, trails, and programs: www.AmesParkRec.org
Ames’ parks offer something for everyone, whether it’s a quiet walk, time on the water, or exploring a new trail this season.

From Agenda to Action: Preview of the Ames City Council Meeting for Tuesday, April 28

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Ames City Councilmember Anita Rollins, who is stepping in for Mayor John Haila, to preview key items scheduled for discussion at the upcoming Ames City Council meeting.
The meeting will take place on Tuesday, April 28, 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.
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:
• Proclamations recognizing members of the community• Infill zoning considerations in a South Campus neighborhood• Plans for the Baker Subdivision
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 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
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.