Waukee Podcast

We're helping you gear up for a summer full of fun in Waukee! From Father's Day weekend to July 4th and the Waukee Arts Festival, this episode is your go-to guide for what's ahead. Host Leisa Fox is joined by Jamie Thompson, who brings dozens of ideas for making June a meaningful month for dads—from memorable outings to community activities. Then we shift into red, white, and blue mode with Heather Behrens and Danae Edwards, who preview Waukee's Independence Day festivities—complete with skydivers, parades, fireworks, and food trucks!

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/fireworks-festivals-father%E2%80%99s-day-summer-in-waukee-is-on

This week’s episode of the Waukee Podcast is a triple treat! Jamie Thompson kicks things off with a playful roundup of summer weekend activities across the metro—from hidden gems to beloved traditions, she’s got recommendations for families, foodies, and adventurers alike. We then shine a light on Overlooked Cat Refuge, a newly-formed nonprofit in DeSoto created by Kathy Masters, Linda Adams, and Gina Tuttle. Their mission: save lives and reduce the stray cat population through adoption and Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) services. With a vision to build a cat care facility and help cats like Foxy, Roo, and Red find homes, OCR invites the community to support their cause through donations, volunteering, and spreading the word. Lastly, the Waukee Chamber introduces Wheeling with Waukee, a community bike ride you won’t want to miss!

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/summer-fun-furry-friends-wheeling-with-waukee

This week on the Waukee Podcast, Jamie Thompson kicks off summer by sharing a lineup of exciting outdoor events and sunny weekend fun for the whole family. Whether you're looking for live music, farmers markets, or local festivities, Jamie's guide is your go-to for making the most of Waukee's summer kickoff. The episode takes a meaningful turn as Mark Good and Aly Davis step into the studio to introduce Team Blue, a powerful initiative raising awareness for prostate cancer. With June being Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, their conversation highlights critical health information and the importance of early detection. We also spotlight an inspiring story of growth and opportunity. Ta'Corey Brown, a graduate of the inaugural class of Empigo Academy, joins us to share his journey and smooth transition into a rewarding career in the trades at Freedom Construction Services . His story reflects the strength of workforce development programs and the importance of equipping young adults with real-world skills. This episode is packed with heart, community, and summer energy—don't miss it!

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/team-blue-trades-and-the-weekend-vibe

This week's Waukee Podcast is a powerful showcase of Waukee's thriving medical community and promising future. Dr. Josh Kindt of The Iowa Clinic equips listeners with essential summer health tips—everything from sunscreen and bug spray to simple strategies that promote long-term wellness. Aimee Spohrs from WesleyLife brings a heartfelt perspective on palliative care, offering valuable clarity and encouragement to families navigating complex health journeys. We also meet rising star Stefi Olsen, who represents the future of healthcare through her work in the APEX CNA Program. Her story reflects the incredible educational opportunities available in our schools and the passion that drives tomorrow's caregivers. With Jamie Thompson rounding things out with a Memorial Day weekend preview, this episode blends expertise, heart, and community pride into one informative and inspiring listen.

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/summer-health-senior-care-and-student-success

https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/art-action-impact-waukee%E2%80%99s-community-championsThis week's Waukee Talkee dives deep into the heartbeat of our city through conversations with four individuals making a meaningful impact. Luke Hubbard, the Waukee Arts Festival's featured artist, reveals how art becomes a bridge to community connection. Meanwhile, Griffin Hoffman shares how the Fine Arts Foot Race does more than get people moving—it funds creativity and brings Waukee together. We also celebrate excellence in education with Teacher of the Year Chad Vollmecke and hear from Farrell's founder Lance Farrell on how his business continues to grow with Waukee. And finally, Elle Osborn with the Waukee Fire Department tempts s with the Waukee Firefighter's Association Pancake Breakfast this Saturday. These stories remind us that our community is full of visionaries who lead with purpose and passion. You won't want to miss this powerful episode that highlights the pulse and potential of Waukee.

Show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/art-action-impact-waukee%E2%80%99s-community-champions

This week on the Waukee Podcast, we're celebrating the heart of the season with stories of motherhood, music, mental health, and meaningful education. Jamie Thompson, better known as #WaukeeRealtorMom, joins us to share all the can't-miss Mother's Day events happening around town — from brunch spots to creative ways to celebrate the moms in your life. Plus, she gives us the rundown on live music lighting up Waukee and nearby communities this weekend. Whether you're planning family time or a fun night out, Jamie has your local guide. Then we dive into impactful conversations with two incredible organizations. Cassie Serrata of Connect Therapy talks about her unique, trauma-informed approach to supporting families and children through healing relationships. And from Des Moines, Fig Newton and student entrepreneur Kiki Gbor of Empígo Academy share how this private Christian charter school is helping young people turn passion into purpose. Kiki's story of launching her own business while applying what she learns in real-time is both powerful and hopeful. From Waukee to Des Moines, this episode showcases how connection, care, and community can shape brighter futures.

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/say-it-loud-celebrating-mothers-music-and-bold-futures

In this episode of the Waukee Podcast, we dive deep into personal health — both emotional and physical. Mental health therapist Kathryn Schuster shares why it’s crucial to process the peaks and valleys of life with professional support, just as we would seek a doctor for a physical injury. Kathryn brings a thoughtful perspective on how understanding and navigating our emotions can significantly improve our daily lives, relationships, and overall well-being. We also welcome Aaron Anderson, owner of Fresh Fit Meals, into the studio to discuss how he is making healthy eating easier for the Waukee community. Aaron shares the story behind Fresh Fit Meals and his passion for providing nutritious, delicious meals delivered right to your door. Plus, Jamie Thompson returns with a lively “What’s Up Waukee” update — and while there are only three bingo chances this week, there’s still plenty happening around town!

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/healthy-minds-healthy-meals-finding-balance-in-waukee

In this episode of the Waukee Podcast, Jamie Thompson from What's Up Waukee recaps the Easter Egg Hunt and previews upcoming events. Danielle Frederick shares her powerful journey as a mother advocating for her autistic son during Autism Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of support and awareness amid rising national costs related to autism.

Todd McDonald from the Waukee Betterment Foundation announces a new event to boost community engagement and reflects on the success of Triumph Park. Melissa Stimple and Katherine Taylor also share their efforts with WayPoint Resources, helping connect refugees and non-English speakers to essential services like the food pantry. Tune in for inspiring stories that showcase the strength and heart of the Waukee community.

Show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/celebrating-community-autism-awareness-and-local-impact

As Waukee gears up for Easter weekend, this week's episode features a cheerful wrap-up of the annual Egg Hunt Eggstravaganza with Jamie Thompson, who shares favorite moments and thanks the many community supporters. Then, we shift gears to a crucial city update. Waukee City Administrator Brad Deets and Communications Director Heather Behrens break down the FY2026 draft budget, what residents should know, and how to participate in the upcoming public hearing on April 21 at City Hall or via Zoom. Listeners will also gain insight into their recent property tax assessments, as Brad and Heather explain the layers behind your statement—more than just your home's assessed value. Plus, Melissa Stimple returns to highlight the Waypoint Resources clothing closet, which provides essential clothing and shoes at no cost to local families.

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/bunnies-budgets-blessings-easter-week-in-waukee

In this episode of the Waukee Podcast, we dive into the heart of what makes Waukee tick—from online community buzz to boots-on-the-ground volunteerism and the beauty of the outdoors. We kick things off with one of the moderators of the Waukee Talkee Facebook page—a role she jokingly calls "the worst job in the world," yet one she's incredibly passionate about. She pulls back the curtain on the delicate art of moderating one of the metro's largest and most opinionated digital communities, and how it's all worth it to foster real connection. Next, we welcome Melissa Stimple and Val Tuel, Waukee's 2024 Volunteer of the Year, as they launch their month-long campaign to match volunteers with neighbors in need of care. Representing Waypoint, they're championing a vision where compassionate people meet practical healthcare needs. Then, Melissa Burdick of The Brenton Arboretum joins us to share how this breathtaking space is more than just a park—it's a natural haven and a vital community resource that thrives through local generosity. Finally, Jamie Thompson returns with her beloved What's Up Waukee segment, keeping us plugged into the can't-miss events and local vibes.

Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/waukee-in-motion-online-outside-on-mission