City of Ames’ Podcasts

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 ...

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 every...

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 ...

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 cre...

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 communi...

In this heartfelt episode of Up Close, Casandra sits down with Erin Kimle, a lifelong storyteller whose journey begins and comes full circle in Ames, Iowa. From childhood memories to the decision to return, Erin shares the meaningful threads that connect her past and present.

Casandra and Erin reflect on their shared hometown and the unexpected ways their paths nearly crossed professionally. Together, they explore what it means to ...

In this episode of Ames in Focus, we’re taking a ride through the ins and outs of street maintenance with Matt Elbert, Streets Supervisor with Ames Public Works. From pothole patching to joint sealing, Matt shares what it takes to maintain over 500 lane-miles of City streets—and that’s just the beginning. Whether you’re curious about how roads are prioritized for repair or wondering why Iowa winters are so tough on pavement, this e...

In this episode of Up Close, Casandra Eames sits down with Noah Camp, a lifelong Ames local who’s rediscovering his hometown with fresh eyes. Born in Ames and once eager to leave, Noah shares how he's grown to love being here—and why the city continues to surprise him. Together, they explore the charm of comedy shows, culinary experiments, and the complicated comfort of knowing everyone around you.

Noah brings a thoughtful perspect...

In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Nancy Carroll, former Director of Ames Parks and Recreation, who now champions the campaign for a new Ames Animal Shelter. Nancy shares her personal passion for animal welfare, the current state of the fundraising efforts, and the creative ways the community is stepping up—including through custom t-shirts and a heartwarming book, Second Chances. Together, they disc...

In this warm and candid episode, Casandra sits down with Kati Frahm to talk about what it really means to build community—and how sometimes, it means bringing your community with you. Kati shares stories of connection, creativity, and the unexpected ways relationships grow. Along the way, she turns the tables and asks Casandra some thoughtful questions of her own. And yes, an impromptu deep dive into N'SYNC fandom may have sparked ...

In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with John Dunn, Director of Water and Pollution Control for the City of Ames, to dive into everything water-related—from why your utility rates change to how simple conservation steps can make a big impact. John brings decades of expertise in water management and a deep commitment to sustainability in municipal services. Whether you're curious about how Ames compares to ...

Welcome to our end-of-the-month group conversation on Up Close! In this episode, Casandra brings together three previous guests—Jen Hibben, Leah Locke, and Chris Aukes—for a thoughtful and lively discussion about life, community, and what it means to call Ames home.

Each guest brings a unique perspective, and as their individual stories intertwine, new connections emerge. Join us as we reflect on shared values, surprising parallels...

It’s summer in Ames—which means sunshine, detours, and a symphony of beeping construction equipment. In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart chats with Mindy Bryngelson, Municipal Engineer for the City of Ames, to break down what’s under construction and why it matters.

From street resurfacing to underground utility upgrades, Mindy offers an insider look at how projects are planned, prioritized, and communicated to the publi...

In this heartfelt conversation, Casandra talks with Chris Aukes about her journey to Ames and what makes the town feel like home. They touch on her work with Humans of Iowa State and how it sparked a deeper connection to the community. Chris also opens up about her passion for cosmetology, the joy of creative expression, and the relationships that have shaped her along the way.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their o...

In this episode of Ames in Focus, we connect with Donald Kom, Director of Electric Services for the City of Ames, for a timely conversation about summer electricity usage, upcoming rate changes, and how residents can stay efficient and informed. Don shares practical advice on managing energy use during peak hours, explains the goals of the Summer Shift program, and invites listeners to a special event at the SunSmart Solar Farm.

Ep...

This week on Up Close, we sit down with Leah Locke, a lifelong Ames resident and business advisor at the Small Business Development Center. Leah shares how growing up in Ames shaped her community-minded approach to business and what it’s like supporting entrepreneurs across Iowa. From small-town roots to big-picture impact, Leah’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and egg allergies.

The views and opinions expressed by guest...

In this episode of Ames in Focus, we sit down with Jennifer Hubbs, the most dedicated volunteer in the history of the Ames Animal Shelter. With more hours logged than anyone else, Jennifer shares her journey into animal welfare, the moments that have touched her heart, and the vital role volunteers play in the shelter’s day-to-day success. We also discuss the challenges of the current facility and why a new shelter is so urgently n...

In this episode of Up Close, we sit down with Jen Hibben—a community builder, spiritual leader, and self-professed 90s music enthusiast. Jen opens up about what it means to live a life that’s busy, how she navigates a jam-packed schedule with intention, and why Ames holds such a special place in her heart.

From the rhythms of her daily life, Jen shares stories that are both grounded and galvanizing. We talk about the beauty of coll...

In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Liz Calhoun, Stormwater Resource Analyst for the City of Ames, to explore the vital work underway at Ioway Creek in Brookside Park. Liz shares insights into the ambitious restoration project that addresses erosion, improves water quality, and enhances public access to one of Ames’ most beloved natural spaces.

Highlights Include:

• What led to the Ioway Creek res...