Waukee Podcast

Spring Break may be winding down, but Waukee is hopping right into Easter season. Jamie Thompson returns with "What's Up Waukee" to share all the local events, activities, and community happenings you won't want to miss—including where the Easter Bunny is making appearances around town.

We're also joined by Brad Deets and Heather Behrens from the City of Waukee to break down the upcoming Property Tax Hearings on April 6. They explain what residents need to know, why it matters, and how to get involved. Plus, Brenda Paustian from The Iowa Clinic shares a powerful and personal story of her own breast cancer diagnosis after decades as a mammography nurse—offering a compelling reminder of why early detection truly saves lives.

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/easter-fun-tax-talks-and-a-life-changing-diagnosis

The Waukee Podcast welcomes back Travis Gaule of Trust Bridge Wealth Advisors for another installment of Money Moves, and the timing couldn't be better. With tax day fast approaching, Travis walks listeners through smart tax strategies that can make a meaningful difference—especially when it comes to retirement planning. From understanding the tax advantages of IRAs and 401(k)s to navigating pre-tax retirement contributions and avoiding unnecessary taxable events, Travis breaks down complex financial concepts into practical steps that anyone can apply. Whether you're building wealth, preparing for retirement, or simply trying to keep more of what you earn, this segment delivers clear guidance when it matters most.

The episode also brings a little style and community energy to the studio. Waukee makeup artist Morgan Dodds joins the conversation to share professional tips for looking your best at every stage of life—from everyday confidence to special events like weddings, photoshoots, and celebrations. Meanwhile, Jamie Thompson returns with the latest from Waukee Parks & Recreation, highlighting all the fun spring break activities happening for the families still in town. From financial wisdom to beauty tips and local happenings, this episode captures the spirit of a community gearing up for a vibrant spring season.

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/tax-strategy-beauty-secrets-and-spring-break-fun

Spring is right around the corner in Waukee and this week's episode is packed with community updates and local momentum. Jamie Thompson is back with another edition of What's Up Waukee, sharing everything families need to know heading into Spring Break along with a full lineup of St. Patrick's Day festivities happening around town. From family-friendly activities to community gatherings, Jamie—always your trusted #waukeerealtormom—helps listeners stay connected to what's happening across one of Iowa's fastest-growing communities.

The episode also shines a spotlight on local entrepreneurs who continue to shape Waukee's culture and economy. Amy Ficken and Brian join the conversation to share updates on their latest work and community involvement, while Stephanie Jimmerson, owner of the beloved Waukee Ice Cream Shoppe, stops by with exciting news about their 2026 opening, menu additions, and the projects she's been working on behind the scenes all winter. From sweet treats to spring celebrations, this episode captures the energy of a community gearing up for a vibrant season ahead.

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/shamrocks-sweet-scoops-waukee-gets-ready-for-st-patty%E2%80%99s-day

Jamie Thompson is back from her tropical vacation and she's bringing the heat with a packed edition of What's Up Waukee! From community happenings to can't-miss local events, Jamie (always your favorite #waukeerealtormom) gets us fully caught up on what's going on around town and why Waukee continues to be one of the most vibrant communities in Iowa.

And don't miss an important announcement from Heather Behrens regarding Waukee's annual State of the City address happening March 11 from 12–1 p.m. at Lutheran Church of Hope. Mark your calendar and learn more here: https://www.waukee.org/1145/State-of-the-City.

Then we shift gears into a thoughtful and timely conversation with Christine Haas, School Director of Waukee's only Montessori school. Fresh off last week's High Tea, Christine shares why Montessori education is especially relevant in today's world — building confidence, independence, work ethic, and strong social skills. With highly trained Guides leading the classrooms and the philosophy that "Play is a child's work," students develop a grounded sense of self before ever entering elementary school. For more information call 515-207-5462 or visit https://sonnetschool.com/.

It's a conversation about raising capable, confident kids — and connecting with our community, one voice at a time.

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/grounded-kids-growing-waukee

This week on the Waukee Podcast, we shine a spotlight on the powerful role the Waukee Public Library plays in shaping young minds from the very beginning. Children's Librarian Eliza Ahrens shares how the library is intentionally building literacy from birth through innovative programming like Book Bundles, Story Time Online, and the beloved 1000 Books Before Kindergarten initiative. Alongside her, Heather Behrens from the City of Waukee highlights how the city and library collaborate to create accessible, engaging opportunities for families—making literacy not just an educational goal, but a community priority.

We also sit down with Darci Evans, owner of Burn Boot Camp in Waukee and ER nurse at The Iowa Clinic. Darci shares her journey to Iowa, how her work in emergency medicine informs her passion for preventive health, and why wellness isn't just a business—it's a lifestyle. As always, Jamie Thompson returns with What's Up Waukee, delivering the insider scoop on all the events and happenings around town this weekend.

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/the-heartbeat-of-a-healthy-community

This week on the Waukee Podcast, we sit down with Rachel Redin, owner of Caspie's Cookies, the home of those irresistible frosted buttercream sugar cookies that show up at birthdays, showers, holidays, and just-because celebrations all over our community. But Rachel's story goes far beyond beautifully piped frosting. She opens up about modeling for Harlow & James and the unexpected journey of learning to embrace — and truly love — her plus-sized, post-pregnancy body. It's honest, refreshing, and empowering.

In contrast, we also welcome Dr. Catherine Coyne, a fellowship-trained plastic surgeon who recently joined The Iowa Clinic. Dr. Coyne discusses the realities of post-GLP-1 weight loss bodies and the options available for those looking to resculpt after significant change. From body contouring to restoring confidence, she provides clear, thoughtful insight into what's possible. And of course, Jamie Thompson is back with What's Up Waukee, bringing us all the happenings as we wrap up February and look ahead to spring.

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes

This week on the Waukee Podcast, we kick off another installment of Money Moves with Travis Gaule from Trust Bridge Wealth Advisors, diving into one of the most misunderstood — yet critically important — parts of financial planning: insurance. Travis introduces his practical acronym LIFE, a framework designed to help individuals and families analyze whether they're truly protected or unknowingly exposed. It's a clear, thoughtful conversation that moves beyond policies and premiums to focus on real-world risk, life stages, and peace of mind.

In the second half, we turn our attention to community health and local entrepreneurship with Aly Davis of Well Waukee, joined by Hanna Coyle and Brent Stepanek of Stack Wellness. They share how macro-friendly, fast-casual meals are helping busy families make healthier choices without sacrificing convenience or flavor. And, of course, Jamie Thompson rounds things out with everything you need to know about Valentine's Week happenings around Waukee.

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes

Thursday's Waukee Podcast is packed with heart, music, and community connection. Bruce Huckfeldt joins us in the studio to talk about Little Books Big Love, a children's book drive happening all month long in February. The goal is simple but powerful: get books into the hands of kids who need them most. Bruce shares the "why" behind the initiative, how the community can participate, and where to drop off donations. (All drop-off locations are listed at www.road2gold.net.)

We also welcome Tim Mitchum from the Part Time Pirates, who stops by to talk music with a mission. The band will be performing this Saturday at Kenny's Garage from 2–6 p.m., with proceeds benefiting Wildwood Hills Ranch. Rounding out the episode, Jamie Thompson—better known as #waukeerealtormom—brings her signature energy and insight with everything happening around Waukee this weekend. If you're looking for ways to give back, enjoy great live music, or simply stay in the know locally, this episode delivers.

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes

This week's Waukee Podcast spotlights two dynamic programs that showcase the energy and creativity of Waukee students. Ashley Hartkorn, coach of the Waukee Wave-ettes, joins the show to talk about the team's second season, how students can get involved, and why synchronized swimming is such a powerful mix of athletics, teamwork, and artistry. With open practices on February 9 and 11, a parent meeting on February 5, and performances scheduled for May 15, it's an exciting season ahead. More information is available at https://www.waukeeaquatics.captynsites.com/copy-of-waukee-waves-dive-team.

We also welcome Jack Daubitz, Head Vocal Music Director at Northwest High School, to t alk about their season and the upcoming Northwest Nightfall, our local show choir competition. Jack previews the event, discusses Northwest's show choir season, and shares why Nightfall will be a must-see experience for performers and audiences alike. Learn more about the competition at https://nightfall.northwestvocalmusic.org/. Plus, Jamie Thompson wraps up the episode with What's Up Waukee, keeping listeners connected to everything happening around town.

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes

This week on The Waukee Podcast, Clarence Hudson of Beyond the Scoreboard sits down with Justin Ohl, Activities Director at Northwest High School, to explore the leadership, logistics, and behind-the-scenes work that keep student activities running smoothly. Jason shares what it's like stepping into a new role and what he's most excited to build for students, staff, and families.

Plus, Leisa Fox is joined by Dani Urrutia, host of the Wilccast Podcast, to swap podcast war stories and talk about how APEX and the Waukee Innovation & Learning Center helped shape Dani's career path and post-graduation plans. Jamie Thompson wraps things up with What's Up Waukee, featuring cold-weather events to keep you connected all winter long.

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes