City of Ames’ Podcasts

• Up Close: Erin Kimle

  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 truly belong to a place—and how stories, both personal and communal, help shape that feeling. Tune in for an intimate conversation about roots, reconnection, and the power of storytelling. 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 [email protected] to be featured on a future episode.

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• Ames in Focus: Street Smarts with Matt Elbert

  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 episode has you covered. Episode Highlights: Matt’s journey to becoming Streets Supervisor How the City prioritizes street patching and repairs Key differences between maintaining asphalt and concrete roads The impact of weather, traffic, and time on pavement condition Other responsibilities of the Streets division, from sidewalks to sweeping How residents can assist with street maintenance and safety One thing Matt wishes everyone understood about his team’s work Resources & Links: Learn more about street maintenance in Ames: CityofAmes.org Report a street issue or maintenance concern: https://www.cityofames.org/Resident-Services/Ames-on-the-Go-Mobile-Reporting Subscribe and Follow: Stay informed about the people and projects shaping Ames—subscribe to Ames in Focus on your favorite podcast platform, and follow the City of Ames for more updates.

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• Up Close: Noah Camp

  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 perspective on what it means to stay, to change, and to look at something familiar in a new light. Whether it’s through laughter, food, or shared moments, this episode captures the essence of community—up close and personal. What You’ll Hear Finding fun close to home—how Noah recently attended his first ever comedy show and left hooked, ready to explore more local entertainment. Cooking for connection—what Noah’s been making in the kitchen and how cooking has become a new kind of joy. Small-town closeness—Casandra and Noah talk about the double-edged sword of familiarity in a place where everyone knows your name (and probably your parents too). 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 [email protected] to be featured on a future episode.

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• Ames in Focus: Building Second Chances with Nancy Carroll

  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 discuss why a new shelter matters, how it will benefit both animals and residents, and how everyone in Ames can get involved. Episode Highlights: Nancy’s journey to animal advocacy An update on fundraising progress and campaign goals Behind the scenes of the campaign’s creative outreach: t-shirts and the Second Chances book Upcoming events and opportunities to support the shelter Why a new facility is vital for Ames’ animals and the broader community Easy ways listeners can contribute to the cause To learn more about the Ames Animal Shelter capital campaign and discover how you can help, visit www.AmesAnimalShelter.org. Follow the City of Ames (or the Ames Animal Shelter) on social media for campaign updates, stories, and upcoming events.

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• Up Close: Kati Frahm

  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 the beginnings of a new podcast within a podcast.   The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.

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