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
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Spring is the perfect time to think about planting new trees—but before you dig, make sure you’re planting the right tree in the right place. In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart welcomes back Gabriele Edwards, City Forester for the City of Ames, to talk all things tree planting.
Gabbi shares practical tips on how to choose the right location, pick the best species, and ensure your new tree gets off to a strong, healthy start. From improving energy efficiency to supporting biodiversity, the benefits of smart tree planting go far beyond your backyard.
You'll also hear about this year’s Arbor Day celebration, Ames’ continued designation as a Tree City USA, and a great video resource to help you plant like a pro.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
What to consider before selecting a tree species 🌳
How to avoid common planting mistakes (hint: it's all about depth and location) ⚠️
The importance of native and diverse tree choices 🌿
Aftercare tips for young trees, including summer watering 💧
Details on Ames' Arbor Day plans and tree planting events 🌱
How Ames continues to earn its Tree City USA status 🎉
Helpful Links (mentioned in the episode):
📹 Tree Planting Video
Iowa DNR Rethinking Maple publication
Your Complete Guide to Pruning Trees and Shrubs🌐 Visit CityofAmes.org for more tips and resources📱 Follow us on social media @CityOfAmes for updates
Thursday Apr 24, 2025
Thursday Apr 24, 2025
Welcome to our end of the month group conversation 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 Cameron Gray, Brenda Tyrrell, and Joyce Hagley 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.
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Hey, Ames, welcome to Up Close!
On this podcast, we have conversations with our neighbors about life in the context of what it means to be in Ames, Iowa.
On this episode, we sit down with Joyce Hagley, who works at Iowa State University. Joyce shares about her journey to Ames, how she fell in love with the city, and her passion for biking. Plus, we chat about the joy of good neighbors—including her friendship with Casandra.
The views and opinions shared by those interviewed are their own and, in no way, reflect the views or stance of the City of Ames municipal government or its employees.
Up Close is a City of Ames podcast.
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
🎧 Ames in Focus – It's Earth Month! with Nolan Sagan 🌍
In this episode of Ames in Focus, we welcome back Nolan Sagan, Sustainability Coordinator for the City of Ames, to help us celebrate Earth Month! Nolan shares all the exciting ways the City is promoting sustainability and getting the community involved in caring for our environment.
From hands-on cleanups to fun, educational events, there’s something for everyone to get involved in this April (into May).
What You’ll Learn:
🌱 What Earth Day on the Airwaves is all about🚰 Why you won’t want to miss the Water Treatment Plant Open House🔧 How the Repair Café encourages reuse and reduces waste🗑️ How to join the community for Stash the Trash and City Stream Cleanup🚲 Details on the Mayor and Council Bike Ride and Bike to Work Week Kickoff Breakfast
Whether you’re an eco-enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to give back this spring, this episode is your guide to Earth Month in Ames.
📅 Learn more and view the full schedule of events at www.CityOfAmes.org/Sustainability
Ames in Focus is a City of Ames podcast.
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Hey, Ames, welcome to Up Close!
On this podcast, we have conversations with our neighbors about life in the context of what it means to be in Ames, Iowa.
On this episode, we sit down with Brenda Tyrrell, who works with Youth and Shelter Services (YSS). Brenda shares about her time at Iowa State University, her dedication to working with area teens, and how she’s helping to make a difference in their lives. We also chat about her love of books and what keeps her rooted in Ames.
The views and opinions shared by those interviewed are their own and, in no way, reflect the views or stance of the City of Ames municipal government or its employees.
Up Close is a City of Ames podcast.
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
In this episode of Ames in Focus, we sit down with Mark Peebler, Superintendent of the Ames Resource Recovery Plant, to talk all things recycling, waste disposal, and what lies ahead for the city’s waste management efforts. Mark gives us an inside look at how the Resource Recovery Plant operates and the services it provides to the community.
What You’ll Learn:
How the 24/7 recycling center works and what materials are accepted
Safe and responsible ways to dispose of household hazardous waste
Challenges and opportunities shaping the future of resource recovery
Whether you’re cleaning out your garage, wondering where your trash ends up, or just curious about Ames’ sustainability efforts, this episode offers valuable insight into keeping our community clean and green.
Learn more about recycling and waste services at www.CityOfAmes.org
Ames in Focus is a City of Ames podcast.
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
Hey, Ames, 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, a local artist, Cameron Gray, shares about his experiences coming to Ames as a grad student, his nonprofit the Buxton Initiative, and why he has stayed in Ames. It's intertwined with writing grants, helping friends, and an upcoming sculpture installation.
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 Apr 01, 2025
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
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.