Amazing Education Podcast: Recent Episodes
Ames Community School District
A podcast on education-related topics with a blend of local and national conversations. The show is produced by the Ames Community School District in Ames, Iowa.
Veteran kindergarten teacher Allison Fisher shares practical advice for families preparing children for kindergarten, drawing on 20-plus years of classroom experience in the Ames Community School District.
She emphasizes social-emotional skills and independence, along with routines like consistent sleep, breakfast, limited screen time, and reading together.
The episode offers reassurance about the transition, describes a typical modern kindergarten day, and celebrates the rapid growth children make academically and socially during their first year.
In this episode, we were joined by Aaron Weddle, the new principal of Mitchell Elementary, to talk about his background, leadership journey, and educational philosophy.
Weddle discusses his focus on building community and relationships, creating a welcoming environment where every child belongs, and partnering with staff and families to support the whole child academically, socially, and emotionally.
He shares practical priorities—visibility, clear communication, and high expectations delivered with care—and leaves families with a central message: you matter, you belong, and you will succeed.
In this episode, we sit down with Ames High senior Brandon Johnson to talk about his journey as a multi-sport athlete, his decision to continue his football career at the University of Northern Iowa, and the people and experiences that helped him along the way. Brandon reflects on his favorite memories as a Little Cyclone and what excites him most about the next chapter, both on and off the field.
What does it take to truly be your best self, and how do you balance it all along the way? In this episode, we sit down with Ames High senior Laura Chen, recently named Iowa’s Distinguished Young Woman for 2026. From her involvement in activities like tennis and orchestra to her work in cancer research, Laura shares how her experiences have shaped who she is today and what comes next on her journey.
In this episode, we’re joined by Ames High senior Isabelle Stagg as she reflects on where her cheer journey began, and whether she ever imagined it would lead her to Iowa State University. You’ll hear how her time in Ames High cheer shaped her skills while building leadership, teamwork, and perseverance, along with the moments that made her experience truly meaningful.
In this episode of the Amazing Education Podcast, host Amy DeLashmutt talks with Charles Grim, the longtime music teacher at Meeker Elementary, as he prepares to retire. Grimm reflects on his unexpected path into elementary music, his love for playing and teaching, and the energetic joy he brings to every class.
The conversation highlights Grimm’s impact on students — encouraging them to try band, orchestra, and chorus — and the memorable moments when former students return to share how music shaped their lives. He also shares what he’ll miss about teaching and looks forward to more family time and new opportunities after retirement.
From Little Cyclone to NCAA competitor to Ames High head coach — Erica Douglas has come full circle.
In this episode, we sat down with the Ames Hall of Famer, former Iowa State standout, and founder of She Plays to talk about leadership, legacy, and building confidence in today’s student-athletes. Find out from Douglas herself what it means to come home and lead the next generation.
On this episode, we’re joined by Carolyn Jons, a longtime Ames school board member and influential leader in public education. Recently honored by the Iowa Association of School Boards, Carolyn reflects on her roots in Ames, her decades of leadership, and what strong school governance means for the future of public education.
In this episode, we’re talking with Ames High science teachers about how they’re bringing creativity and curiosity into the classroom through hands-on, real-world learning. From innovative lab experiences to the “What’s in Your Watershed?” project, these educators are redefining what it means to teach—and think—like a scientist.
In this episode, we’re joined by Shaeley Santiago, our English Learner Coordinator, to talk about what effective coaching and support look like for multilingual learners. Shaeley shares how relationship-building, collaboration, and coaching create classrooms where every student, and every teacher, can thrive.
In this episode, we talk with Ames High boys wrestling coach Andy Fecht about the growth, culture, and goals of the wrestling program. He shares insights on developing student-athletes, building a strong team mindset, and what’s ahead for Little Cyclone wrestling.
In this episode, we’re talking with Ames High senior Adalyn McKeag, whose passion for food security and environmental sustainability has taken her many places outside the walls of AHS. Join us as Adalyn shares what drives her work, what she’s learned from these experiences, and how she hopes to make a lasting impact.
In this episode, we sit down with Anna Fagervik, a Family Resource Support Advocate and the Homeless Liaison in our District, to learn how she helps families navigate challenges and access vital resources. By building trust and community connections, Anna shares how her work empowers students to feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.
In this episode, Ames High science teacher Mike Todd shares his excitement about receiving a STEM BEST® Program grant. This grant launched a new course he hopes inspires students to see science as a tool for making real change in their communities by tackling issues such as food insecurity and sustainability.
On this episode, we’re thrilled to be joined by Ames High teacher Alex Grapp. We’re talking about how to bring language arts to life by tapping into what students actually care about, why engagement and enjoyment are game-changers for retention, and the advice Alex has for fellow educators who want to make their classrooms more connected and dynamic.
We’re sitting down with Associate Superintendent Dr. Jeff Hawkins for an amazing conversation on what summer really looks like in school leadership.
We’ll dive into how collaborative leadership shapes the school experience for both staff and students, and how we can take that summer momentum and launch into a strong new school year.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High senior and class of 2025 graduate Chantal Eulenstein. We had an amazing conversation about the many honors she has received for writing, starting a student newspaper club at the middle school, and the importance of student voices.
On this episode, we were joined by Ananya Balaji, Ames High senior and 2025 Coke Scholar. We had an amazing conversation about the process of becoming a Coke Scholar, what impacted her most during her time at Ames High, and her plans for the future.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High senior, Madie Fischer. We had an amazing conversation about winning the Iowa Choral Directors Association composition competition, what it’s like to compose music, her love of fine arts, and her plans for the future.
On this episode, we were joined by Jessica Sharp, principal at Edwards Elementary. We had an amazing conversation about what belonging means in elementary schools, how to support teachers and staff in building strong relationships with students and families, and the role student voice plays in shaping school culture.
On this episode, we were joined by Todd Klindt, former PTO president and engaged parent in our school district. We had an amazing conversation about being a parent volunteer, the role PTO organizations play in our schools, and how parent involvement can positively impact a child’s experience at school.
On this episode, we were joined by Eddie McEwan, a 7th-grade math teacher at Ames Middle School. We had an amazing conversation about math anxiety, its common triggers, teaching strategies to help students, and how to develop a grown mindset when it comes to learning math.
On this episode, we were joined by Eric Sackett, a college and career transition counselor with DMACC. We had an amazing conversation about his role at Ames High with college and career transition, how he helps students overcome uncertainties, and programs or initiatives that can help students with their next step after high school.
On this episode, we are joined by Anna Metcalf, school nurse at Ames High School and our nursing staff lead. We had an amazing conversation about her journey to being a school nurse, how her role has evolved, and how she supports the overall health and well-being of students.
On this episode, we were joined by Dunkin Bearson a junior at Ames High School. We had an amazing conversation about his recent honor of becoming one of 5 state thespian officers for 2025, his favorite production and most memorable moments on stage, and how he sees theater shaping his future.
On this episode, we were joined by Kate Engelkes and Chuck Ripley, coaches for the Ames High speech program. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about speech at Ames High, what inspired them to become coaches, and the key skill students take away from this experience.
On today’s episode, we are joined by Bill Ripp, former teacher and associate principal at Ames High School, and founder of the Ames High Alumni Association. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about his journey to teaching, working in a school leadership role, and how the alumni association helps keep former students connected.
On this episode, we were joined by Anna Brooks, the Career and Technical Education Agriculture Teacher at Ames High. We had an amazing conversation about agriculture education, student’s evolving interest in agriculture, the FFA program, and shaping future leaders at Ames High.
On this episode, we were joined by Kathy Geis, Homeschool Assistance Program Coordinator for the Ames Community School District. We had an amazing conversation about homeschooling in the District, her role as the HSAP coordinator, and the different options available to families in our community.
On this episode, we are joined by Scott Grimes, new Superintendent for the Ames Community School District. We had an amazing conversation about his vision for the District, plans to engage students, families and the community, how he will measure success as superintendent, and his message for students and families as we go into a new school year.
On today’s episode, we were joined by Dan Rader, Director of Technology for the Ames Community School District. We had an amazing conversation about K-12 technology, how it has evolved over the years and its impact on education, new tech advancements, and tips for student technology use.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High 9th grader, Ella Grail. We had an amazing conversation about being the Iowa winner for the Doodle for Google contest, how she became interested in art, and how she balances both her artwork and school work at the same time.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High teacher, Ben Matthies. We had an amazing conversation about the Alternative Learning Program at Ames High, including what is ALP, how it is different from traditional education models, and the role teachers, students, and parents play.
On today’s episode, we were joined by Ames High Principal Dr. Paul Numedahl. We had an amazing conversation about what inspired him to go into school leadership, the rewarding aspects of his role, and his hopes and aspirations for the future of Ames High.
On this episode, we were joined by Dan Walter, Commander at the Ames Police Department. We had an amazing conversation about our new anonymous reporting tool called P3 Campus, including how the system works collaboratively between the District and Ames PD, and the benefits of having such a system in place.
On this episode, we were joined by Matt Steffen, Ames High’s head girl’s wrestling coach. We had an amazing conversation about what it’s like to coach girl’s wrestling, the increase in participation at Ames High, and advice he would give to future athletes.
On this episode, we were joined by Deani Thomas, director of special education at the Ames CSD. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about the new AMES Center, what will be housed in this new space, how the needs of students directly informed the programming there, and when it will fully open.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High students Karina Scott, Adalyn McKeag, and Julia Fuerst. We had an amazing conversation about Art Club, how they became involved in art, what influences their work, and how they run a busy club all while being Ames High students.
On today’s episode, we were joined by Ames High School junior, Miles Peterson. We had an amazing conversation about the technical side of theatre, the skills he has gained both on stage and backstage, and his advice for getting involved at Ames High.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High School junior, Kaylee McClure. We had an amazing conversation about being a recipient of the Abigail Adams award, her involvement with American Heritage Girls, and how important it is for her to give back to her community.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High teacher and director for the drama program, Melissa Kaufman. We had an amazing conversation about theater aspects, her process for selecting and preparing shows to be performed at Ames High, and how theater helps in the overall education and personal development of students.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames Middle School Principal Boston Freilinger. We had an amazing conversation about his goals as a new principal, the challenges he might face, and how parents and the community can support educational efforts at Ames Middle School.
On this episode, we were joined by Superintendent Dr. Julious Lawson. We had an amazing conversation about the District’s new attendance initiative, Every Day Counts. We talked about what it means to focus on attendance as a school district and why it’s so important in student success.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High School 2023 graduate, Ali Frandsen. We had an amazing conversation about her track and field success, perseverance, and what the future holds.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High School students Grace Wu, Fatimah Naraghi, and Lilly Hauge. We had an amazing conversation about DECA, their trip to the International Career Development Conference in Orlando, Florida, and their many accomplishments.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High senior, David Lee. We had an amazing conversation about being on the YSS Corporate Board of Directors, his training to complete a half Ironman Triathlon, and how being a dreamer led him to love of storytelling.
On this episode, we were joined by Emily Lair, Career and Technical Education Agriculture teacher at Ames High. We had an amazing conversation about agriculture, changes in technology, and the FFA program.
On this episode, we were joined by Mary Morton, the Principal at Northwood Preschool Center. We had an amazing conversation about what it's like to be a principal, what makes an effective preschool program, and why parents should choose Northwood.
On this episode, we were joined by Kate Ringstad, the Transition Alliance Program Coordinator and had an amazing conversation about TAP, why transition planning and education is so important, what families and students need to know about these services, and most of all, how TAP helps students.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High Senior, Clara Fields, and had an amazing conversation about what goes into madrigal dinner, what it is like to play the jester, and how being part of this tradition has made her feel connected to her school.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames CSD Communication Specialist Amy DeLashmutt and had an amazing conversation about the launch our new website, the incredible work that went into it, and how this website is integral with our other communications strategies.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames CSD Superintendent Dr. Julious Lawson and had an amazing conversation about his 100-Day Entry Plan, the importance of building relationships in the community, and some of the big rocks for this school year.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High art teacher Lindsay Wede. We had an amazing conversation about how she approaches projects, getting students to engage with the art community, and whether art should be judged.
On this episode, we were joined by elementary teacher Laura Clausen. We had an amazing conversation about building relationships with students and what it means to be a kid magnet.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High boys basketball coach, Vance Downs. We had an amazing conversation about this year’s state championship, coaching in general, and then take time to walk down memory lane to revisit some of the most storied teams.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High teacher James Webb. We had an amazing conversation about the process that he went through to be a National Board Certified Teacher and how it reignited his passion for teaching.
On this episode, we were joined by the incoming superintendent of Ames Public Schools, Dr. Julious Lawson. We had an amazing conversation about the role of the superintendent and what he is most excited about heading into next year.
On this episode, we were joined by Kristin Lewis, Associate Principal at OPN Architects. We had an amazing conversation on what it takes to design a large high school from concept to completion.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames Superintendent Dr. Paula Vincent. It’s school budget season and we had an amazing conversation about the process and considerations that are needed to set the fiscal budget for next school year.
On this episode, we were joined by Chris Snider from Drake University. We had an amazing conversation specifically about what parents should know as it relates to their students on social media and conversations that they can have at home.
On this episode, we were joined by Chris Snider from Drake University. We had an amazing conversation about the current landscape of social media, the pros and cons of the various platforms, and how it has evolved over time.
On this episode, we were joined by the elementary principal Jessica Sharp. We had an amazing conversation about Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support, including how it is implemented and how it can positively impact building culture.
On this episode, we were joined by the Ames Middle School Instructional Coach Erik Ringsby. We had an amazing conversation about the various roles he plays in supporting teachers and how he contributes to a healthy school culture.
On this episode, we were joined by the Health Services Supervisor of Ames Public Schools, Dr. Kathi Arnold. We had an amazing conversation about the differences between last year and this year related to COVID-19, key mitigation strategies, and what parents can expect for communication.
On this episode, we were joined by Erin Miller, Director of Teaching and Learning for Ames Schools. We had an amazing conversation about the curriculum review process, how the pandemic has interrupted learning in the classroom, and how to keep equity at the center of decision-making.
On this episode, we are joined by the interim superintendent of Ames Public Schools, Dr. Paula Vincent. We had an amazing conversation about the role of the superintendent and what she is most excited about heading into the next year.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High senior Vijay Williams. We had an amazing conversation about social justice, what social media high school students are using, and his storytelling aspirations.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High senior Makenzie Grim. We had an amazing conversation about what it’s been like to be a senior in a pandemic year and how she earned her CNA while in high school.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High junior Jason Vernon. We had an amazing conversation about his love of bees, beekeeping, hives, and harvesting honey.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High senior Adam Wolf. We had an amazing conversation reflecting on his high school music career and how he approaches every situation with a sense of optimism.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High senior Yuer Zhu. We had an amazing conversation about her artwork, where the inspiration comes from, and talked through some of her amazing projects.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High students Alina Markutsya and Andrew Besch. We’re had an amazing conversation about the Storm Shelter, an Ames High student enterprise store, and all of the logistics that are required of operating a small business.
On this episode, we were joined by Ames High Ethics Bowl advisor Chad Zmolek. We had an amazing conversation about what an Ethics Bowl is, topics that students explore, and what their preparation looks like for competition.
On this episode, we are joined by Dr. Anthony Jones, Director of Equity for Ames Schools. We’re going to have an amazing conversation as we reflect on the Black Lives Matter at School Week of Action that took place at the beginning of February.
On this episode, we are joined by 5th-grade elementary teacher, Mary Hard. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about teaching 100% online: how to prepare for it, what a typical day looks like, and the inherent challenges for teachers and students.
On this episode, we are joined by the Emergency Management Coordinator of Ames Public Schools, Dr. Kathi Arnold. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about the complexities that COVID-19 has had on schools and how she balances it all on the daily basis.
On this episode, we are joined by long time History and Government teacher Kristin Sullivan from Ames High School. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about the importance of engaging high school students in the election process and how to be an informed voter.
On this episode, we are joined by Dr. Anthony Jones, Director of Equity for Ames Schools. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about racial injustice and how professional development and conversations of race can be embedded within school districts.
On this episode, we are joined by Dr. Anthony Jones, Director of Equity for Ames Schools. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about what equity means in education and why it needs to be a focus for school districts.
On this episode, we are joined by Superintendent of Ames Schools, Jenny Risner. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about the impact that COVID-19 has had on education and the importance of having an equity lens during this time.
On this episode, we are joined by School Resource Officer Don Johnsen. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about policing in schools, building relationships with students and staff, and how he approaches active shooter training.
On this episode, we are joined by Nina Lorimor-Easley of True Potential Education. As a leader in the state on dyslexia, we are going to talk about common myths associated with it, and how understanding dyslexia can inform best practices for all students.
On this episode, we are joined by Dr. Chad Dumas. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about the importance of using data when making instructional decisions and what that looks like at the District, building, and classroom levels.
On this episode, we are joined by Dr. Katy Swalwell. We’re going to have an amazing conversation in this second of two episodes on critical consciousness and how school districts can have conversations about inequities and racism.
On this episode, we are joined by Dr. Katy Swalwell. We’re going to have an amazing conversation in this Part I of II episodes on critical consciousness and how school districts can have conversations about inequities and racism.
On this episode, we are joined by Dr. Jennifer Ulie-Wells, Executive Director of Please Pass the Love, a non-profit committed to providing school mental health supports. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about this important topic as we continue to break the stigma around mental health.
On this episode of the Amazing Education Podcast, we are joined by Principal Yonas Michael. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about establishing positive building culture and the importance of giving students a voice in that process.
On this episode of the Amazing Education Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Jeff Hawkins. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about the importance of modeling classroom strategies during meetings to administrators and teachers and how that modeling can be used in the classroom.
On this episode of the Amazing Education Podcast, we are joined by Superintendent Jenny Risner. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about the role of a superintendent, being responsive to the community, and the importance of articulating a vision for the District.