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 Mar 27, 2025
Thursday Mar 27, 2025
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
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
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
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
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
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.
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Water Pollution Control Facility Superintendent Tyler VerMeer and Environmental Engineer Daria Dilparic are on the pod today. This duo gives us an insight to Ames Water & Pollution Control Department's Nutrient Reduction Project. This multi-year project will facilitate the WPC's high rating of excellence in compliance while also helping to reduce specific nutrients that flow into our waterways.
Get more information about the City of Ames and the Nutrient Reduction Project at www.CityofAmes.org.
Ames in Focus is a City of Ames podcast.