City of Ames’ Podcasts
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
Listen on:
Ames in Focus
Ames in Focus is the City’s flagship conversational podcast, featuring City staff, community partners, and local experts discussing programs, projects, and everyday topics that shape life in Ames, from parks and recreation to construction, sustainability, public safety, and library programming. The tone is relaxed and personable, often starting with how guests got into their work before diving into the topic, which helps humanize City staff and make local government feel more approachable. At its core, the show takes topics that might otherwise feel technical or bureaucratic and turns them into clear, engaging conversations that residents can easily understand and connect to.
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 Eric.Gebhart@CityofAmes.org
From Agenda to Action
From Agenda to Action is the City’s City Council-focused podcast that helps residents understand what is coming up for discussion and what decisions are being made, typically featuring conversations with Mayor John Haila and occasional councilmembers. The show highlights key agenda items, explains why they matter, and breaks down how those decisions may impact daily life in Ames, from infrastructure and housing to public safety and community development. By turning complex agenda packets into clear, conversational insights, it serves as an accessible guide that helps residents feel more informed, engaged, and connected to local government.
Each meeting cycle includes two episodes. On the Friday before each City Council meeting, we preview key agenda items and upcoming topics for discussion. On the Friday after each meeting, we recap the actions taken by Council, including votes, next steps, and what those decisions mean for the community.
The podcast is designed to make local government more accessible and to help residents feel informed and connected every step of the way.
Live Well, Be Well
The goal is simple: honest conversations that make wellbeing feel more human, achievable, and relevant.
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 Thursday.
Would you like to have a conversation with Casandra? Send her an email at Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org
Episodes
Thursday Aug 14, 2025
Thursday Aug 14, 2025
In this heartwarming episode of Up Close, Casandra Eames sits down with Sally Shaver Dubois to explore a life shaped by creativity, community, and a joyful spirit. Sally shares stories from her early days in Ames after her family moved for her father’s position at Iowa State, and how that move laid the foundation for her enduring love of the town—and its people.
From her deep passion for music to her work connecting with others, Sally reflects on the power of laughter, the meaning of service, and why she never quite outgrew her love of a little clowning around. It’s an episode full of heart, harmony, and a whole lot of humanity.
Topics Covered:
Growing up in Ames and the Iowa State connection
Finding purpose through music and community
The importance of joy—and a sense of humor—in everyday life
How a little clowning can bring people together
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.
Want to Be On Up Close?Have a story to share? Reach out to Casandra Eames in the City Manager's Office or email Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org to be featured on a future episode.
Tuesday Aug 12, 2025
Tuesday Aug 12, 2025
In this heartwarming episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Joanna Muggli—devoted animal advocate, longtime supporter of the Ames Animal Shelter, and now the proud adopter of one of Ames’ most famous pups. You may know him as Good Boy—the injured dog who captured the City’s heart and became one of the faces of the shelter’s capital campaign. At home, he’s now known simply as Buddy.
Joanna shares the emotional story of Buddy’s transformation, the shelter’s critical role in his recovery, and what the future holds for animal care in Ames. As the shelter is in a bold campaign to build a new facility, this episode explores how community support can help give many more animals a second chance—just like Buddy.
Episode Highlights:
Buddy’s journey from injured and abandoned to beloved community icon
Joanna’s perspective on adopting from the Ames Animal Shelter and why she supports its future
The challenges of the current shelter facility and the vision for a more modern, humane space
Ways listeners can get involved—from donations to volunteering and adoption
Learn more and support the campaign: AmesAnimalShelter.org
Thursday Aug 07, 2025
Thursday Aug 07, 2025
In this episode of Up Close, host Casandra Eames sits down with Bill Gallus, a man who’s been chasing storms—and his passion—since childhood. From choosing between the legendary meteorology programs at Penn State and Iowa State to following tornadoes across the Midwest, Bill shares how a lifelong fascination with weather shaped his career and his life.
He talks about the moment he knew the weather bug wasn’t going away, the thrill (and risk) of storm chasing, and why Iowa State ultimately became home. If you’ve ever looked at a radar map with curiosity or felt the adrenaline of a fast-moving storm, this episode is for you.
Topics Covered:
Penn State vs. Iowa State: The decision that changed everything
Early signs of a weather obsession
The science—and thrill—of chasing tornadoes
Building a career out of natural curiosity
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.
Want to Be On Up Close?Have a story to share? Reach out to Casandra Eames in the City Manager's Office or email Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org to be featured on a future episode.
Tuesday Aug 05, 2025
Tuesday Aug 05, 2025
In this episode, we welcome back Vanessa Baker-Latimer to unpack the 2025–26 Annual Action Plans for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME programs. These federal funding streams may sound bureaucratic, but they directly shape how Ames invests in affordable housing, neighborhood revitalization, and other community improvements. Vanessa helps demystify the goals, requirements, and opportunities for public input that make these programs impactful and responsive to local needs.
Episode Highlights:
What the CDBG and HOME programs are and why they matter in Ames
Key goals and proposed projects for 2025–26
The three core objectives that guide how funds can be used
Where residents can explore past and current projects
How community members can offer feedback and shape the plan
Take Action:📍 Review the draft plan and share your thoughts: CityofAmes.org/housing🗓️ Attend the upcoming City Council meeting to weigh in on the plan
Join the conversation. Shape the future.
Thursday Jul 31, 2025
Thursday Jul 31, 2025
It’s a five-Thursday month—which means it’s time for a special Up Close conversation with your host Casandra and Producer Bill!
In this episode, they dive into the heart of what Up Close is all about: building relationships. Through thoughtful reflections and a few laughs, they explore how relationships often begin with something simple—making a connection. Whether it's borrowing a lawn tool or trading parenting advice, these everyday moments can grow into meaningful, lasting bonds.
Casandra and Bill share personal insights on the importance of both offering help and being willing to ask for it. Because in a strong community, connection goes both ways.
Tune in for a candid, encouraging conversation about how relationships are built one ask, one offer, and one shared experience at a time.
🎤 Want to Be On Up Close?Have a story to share? Reach out to Casandra Eames in the City Manager's Office or email Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org to be featured on a future episode.
Tuesday Jul 29, 2025
Tuesday Jul 29, 2025
In this episode, we sit down with Officer Nate Rivera of the Ames Police Department to talk about National Night Out—an annual summer celebration focused on building community, enhancing public safety, and fostering police-resident partnerships. Nate shares what makes this event so impactful, how his unique role as Community Resource Officer shapes his approach, and why you won’t want to miss this year’s festivities on August 5 at Ames Middle School.
Episode Highlights:
Officer Nate’s background and journey into community policing
What National Night Out is and why it matters
Sneak peek at this year’s event: games, food, emergency vehicles, and more
The importance of trust-building between law enforcement and residents
Shoe and sock giveaway for students and on-site signups for school supplies
Resources & Links:
📅 National Night Out: Tuesday, August 5 | 5:30–8 p.m. | Ames Middle School
🔗 CityofAmes.org
📱 Follow the Ames Police Department on social media for updates
Connect With Us:Love the show? Have a topic or guest suggestion? Email us at eric.gebhart@CityofAmes.org or follow @CityOfAmes on social media to stay in the loop.
Thursday Jul 24, 2025
Thursday Jul 24, 2025
In this special episode of Up Close, past guests Kati Frahm, Noah Camp, and Erin Kimle return to the mic—this time together—for an inspiring conversation about connection, community, and the shared love they’ve found in Ames.
As they begin to uncover unexpected overlaps in their stories, the trio reflects on what it means to create meaningful relationships in a place you choose to call home. From building friendships to finding creative outlets and support systems, they discuss the ways they’ve each contributed to and been shaped by the Ames community.
They also have fun imagining what kinds of unique foods they’d love to see offered at Ames restaurants—adding a flavorful twist to their conversation about local identity and shared experiences.
It’s a warm and candid group conversation about roots, chosen communities, and the beauty of discovering common ground.
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.
🎤 Want to Be On Up Close?Have a story to share? Reach out to Casandra Eames in the City Manager's Office or email Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org to be featured on a future episode.
Tuesday Jul 22, 2025
Tuesday Jul 22, 2025
In this episode of Ames in Focus, we dive into one of the city’s most beloved sustainability initiatives: Rummage RAMPage. Host Bill Gebhart welcomes back Nolan Sagan, the City of Ames’ Sustainability Coordinator, along with two long-time RAMPagers—Merry Rankin, Director of Sustainability at Iowa State University, and Stan Rabe, veteran volunteer extraordinaire.
Together, they unpack the heart and hustle behind this massive community reuse event that transforms move-out chaos into a celebration of second chances for furniture, housewares, and more.
💡 Episode Highlights:
The origins and goals of Rummage RAMPage
How the event works—from donating to shopping
What it’s like to volunteer (hint: rewarding and sometimes wild!)
Stats on waste diverted and funds raised for local nonprofits
Memorable finds
Tips for first-time donors, shoppers, and volunteers
📍 Event Info:
Location: Ames Intermodal Facility, 129 Hayward Ave
Donation drop-off begins: Friday, July 25
Sale opens: Saturday, July 26 at 8 a.m.
Learn more at CityOfAmes.org/RummageRampage