City of Ames’ Podcasts
City of Ames’ podcasts that bring you closer to the people, programs, and events that make Ames a great place to live. Just follow City of Ames’ Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts and you will get two great podcasts in a single feed! Get more information about things happening in Ames at www.CityofAmes.org

Ames in Focus
Ames in Focus brings you the inside scoop on City government programs, initiatives, and people. From front line workers to the Mayor of Ames, each episode holds an informative conversation aimed to help you get in touch with the activities of Ames.
These 15 to 20 minute episodes drop every Tuesday.
Is there a City program, initiative, ordinance, or department that you would like to know more about? Email Bill.Gebhart@CityofAmes.org

Up Close
How well do you know your neighbors? Up Close is a podcast all about connections. Each week, Engagement Coordinator, Casandra Eames, builds connections with Ames' residents. These stories range from those born and raised in Ames to those from other parts of the world. No matter how different we are, we can all find a way to connect with those around us.
These 45 to 60 minute episodes drop every Thursdays.
Would you like to have a conversation with Casandra? Send her an email at Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org
Episodes

48 minutes ago
48 minutes ago
Today on Ames in Focus, we’re joined by Shari Plagge, Ames City Assessor, to discuss everything you need to know about property tax assessments. Shari explains how assessments are determined, what factors impact property values, and how homeowners can dispute their assessments if they believe there’s an error.
We also explore the role of the City Assessor’s Office, how assessments affect property taxes, and common misconceptions about the process. Whether you’re a longtime homeowner or a first-time buyer, this episode provides valuable insights into property assessments in Ames.
For more information on property assessments and appeals, visit www.CityOfAmes.org.
Ames in Focus is a City of Ames podcast.

6 days ago
6 days ago
Welcome to the end of our first month on Up Close! On this podcast, we will have conversations with our neighbors about life in the context of what it means to be in Ames, Iowa. On this episode, previous guests Latifah Faisal, Colby Clark, and Tyler Harms get a chance to know each other through conversation as Casandra makes connections between them based on their previous podcasts.
The views and opinions shared by those interviews are their own and, in no way, reflect the views or stance of the City of Ames municipal government or it's employees.
Up Close is a City of Ames podcast.

Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Ames in Focus: Homewood Golf Course: A Hole in One with Nate Pietz
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Today on Ames in Focus, we’re joined by Nate Pietz, Recreation Manager for Ames Parks and Recreation, to talk all things golf as Homewood Golf Course prepares to open for the season on March 28 (weather permitting). Nate shares what golfers can expect this year, from course conditions to upcoming events and leagues.
We also dive into the history of Homewood, why it’s a great course for golfers of all skill levels, and how the Parks and Recreation team keeps it in top shape. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner looking to hit the links for the first time, this episode has something for you!
For more information on tee times, season passes, and course updates, visit www.AmesParkRec.org.
Ames in Focus is a City of Ames podcast.

Thursday Mar 20, 2025
Up Close: Tyler Harms
Thursday Mar 20, 2025
Thursday Mar 20, 2025
Welcome to Up Close! On this podcast, we will have conversations with our neighbors about life in the context of what it means to be in Ames, Iowa. On this episode, Tyler Harms with the Iowa DNR, chats with Casandra and shares about creating community in Ames, hiking parks in Ames, and live music.
The views and opinions shared by those interviews are their own and, in no way, reflect the views or stance of the City of Ames municipal government or it's employees.
Up Close is a City of Ames podcast.

Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Sara VanMeeteren, City of Ames' Building Official, is on the pod today. Sara talks to us about all things building related such as who needs to get a building permit and when one should apply. She also walks us through the inspections process and owning a rental property in Ames. Sara also reminds us that, if we are building or thinking about becoming a landlord, the Inspections team is always available to help anyone through their projects.
Get more information about the City of Ames, the building code, rental property codes, and permitting at www.CityofAmes.org.
Ames in Focus is a City of Ames podcast.

Thursday Mar 13, 2025
Up Close: Colby Clark
Thursday Mar 13, 2025
Thursday Mar 13, 2025
Welcome to Up Close! On this podcast, we will have conversations with our neighbors about life in the context of what it means to be in Ames, Iowa. On this episode, Iowa State Career Services staff, Colby Clark, chats with Casandra and shares about her experiences moving to Ames from Las Vegas, life with a toddler, and the good old college years.
The views and opinions shared by those interviews are their own and, in no way, reflect the views or stance of the City of Ames municipal government or it's employees.
Up Close is a City of Ames podcast.

Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Ames in Focus: Understanding Your Property Taxes with Corey Goodenow
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Director of Finance, Corey Goodenow, is on the pod today. Corey walks us through a tax assessment letter being sent out by Story County on March 15 and the new property tax calculator on the City of Ames website.
Get more information about the City of Ames, the City's budget, and the new property tax calculator at www.CityofAmes.org.
Ames in Focus is a City of Ames podcast.

Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Up Close: Latifah Faisal
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
This is the first episode of Up Close! On this podcast, we will have conversations with our neighbors about life in the context of what it means to be in Ames, Iowa. On this episode, one of the Story County Board of Supervisors, Latifah Faisal, shares about her experiences being born in Ames, living in another country, and coming back to Ames. It's all sprinkled with talk of cooking, work/life balance, and music.
The views and opinions shared by those interviews are their own and, in no way, reflect the views or stance of the City of Ames municipal government or it's employees.
Up Close is a City of Ames podcast.