Raising Readers, Beating Allergies & Enjoying Summer in Waukee

Raising Readers, Beating Allergies & Enjoying Summer in Waukee

Summer is in full swing, and this week's Waukee Podcast begins with Jamie Thompson (#WaukeeRealtorMom), who shares a packed calendar of community events, activities, and family-friendly opportunities happening throughout Waukee. If you're looking for ways to enjoy the season, Jamie has you covered with plenty of ideas to fill your summer schedule. Leisa also welcomes Rhea Parekh from Primrose School of West Des Moines for a conversation about the importance of early childhood education and the developmental milestones parents should monitor as children grow. The discussion highlights tools such as the STAR Early Literacy Assessment [https://www.testprep-online.com/star-early-literacy?utm_source=chatgpt.com] and the Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) [https://agesandstages.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com], which help parents and educators measure developmental progress. Sean Stenga from Allergenix [https://allergenix.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] joins the show to discuss his innovative approach to allergy care and why fast, responsive treatment is especially important during Iowa's peak allergy season. Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/raising-readers-beating-allergies-enjoying-summer-in-waukee [https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/raising-readers-beating-allergies-enjoying-summer-in-waukee]

Leadership and Longevity: Executive Health Insights and Waukee's Future

Summer has officially arrived in Waukee, and this episode of the Waukee Podcast is packed with valuable conversations and community updates. First, we sit down with Jen Nelson to explore the Executive Health Program at The Iowa Clinic [https://www.iowaclinic.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com]. Jen shares how busy leaders and professionals can take a more proactive approach to their health through comprehensive assessments, personalized care planning, and preventative strategies designed to keep executives performing at their highest level. Learn more about the program here: Executive Health Program Information [https://www.iowaclinic.com/specialties/employer-health/executive-health/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] We also welcome Rob Groves and Heather Behrens for a conversation about public service, leadership, and building the future of Waukee. Rob discusses the commitment required to serve on City Council, what inspired his public service journey, and his hopes for one of Iowa's fastest-growing communities. Heather joins the conversation to share perspectives on community engagement and Waukee's future. Plus, Jamie Thompson returns with all the happenings around town. Pools are open. Splash pads are Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/executive-health-insights-and-waukee%E2%80%99s-future [https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/executive-health-insights-and-waukee%E2%80%99s-future]

Waukee Palooza, Money Matters & Memorial Day Fun

The Waukee Podcast is packed with community excitement this week as Leisa Fox sits down with Tom Young and Nate Hardisty from the Waukee Rotary Club to preview one of the city's biggest celebrations of the summer — Waukee Palooza! Taking place June 6 from 4–10 p.m., the event promises live entertainment, family-friendly activities, food, community connection, and plenty of reasons for residents to kick off summer together. Tom and Nate share what makes this event special, how the Rotary continues to invest in the community, and why Waukee Palooza has quickly become a signature event for the city. Jamie Thompson, better known as #waukeerealtormom, returns with all the local happenings and can't-miss activities heading into Memorial Day weekend around Waukee and the surrounding area. The episode also features another insightful "Money Matters" segment with Travis Gaule of Trust Bridge Wealth Advisors, focusing on practical strategies to help listeners move closer to a work-optional lifestyle. From building financial confidence to planning intentionally for the future, Travis delivers approachable advice designed to help families think differently about wealth, retirement, and long-term freedom. Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/waukee-palooza-money-matters-memorial-day-fun [https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/waukee-palooza-money-matters-memorial-day-fun]

Better Days, Spring Nights, and Turning the Page in Waukee

Jamie Thompson, #waukeerealtormom, kicks off this week's What's Up Waukee with a perfect snapshot of spring turning into summer across the community. From farmers markets and outdoor concerts to packed patios and family-friendly events, Waukee is officially coming alive for the season. Jamie highlights the places, gatherings, and local energy that make this time of year one of the best in the city, giving listeners plenty of ideas to get out and enjoy everything happening around town. The episode then shifts into a meaningful and deeply personal conversation with Chris Whalen, founder of Hyper, who shares the story behind the company's "Better Days" drink and why 100% of its proceeds support the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Chris opens up about mental health, personal struggles, and the mission driving the brand beyond the beverage itself. The episode closes with Heather Behrens from the City of Waukee alongside the President of the Library Board of Trustees, Micki Henderson, reflecting on six years of growth, progress, and community impact through the library system. They also discuss the importance of civic involvement and encourage residents interested in serving to apply for the open Library Board seats. Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/better-days-spring-nights-and-turning-the-page-in-waukee [https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/better-days-spring-nights-and-turning-the-page-in-waukee]

What's Up Waukee: Mother's Day, Gary's Ride, and Summer at Timberline

Jamie Thompson, #waukeerealtormom, kicks off this week's What's Up Waukee with a roundup of all the ways to celebrate the moms in your life. From brunch spots across the city to community gatherings, Waukee is full of opportunities to connect and show appreciation this weekend. It's a strong, upbeat start that reflects what this show does best—keeping you plugged into what's happening right here at home. The episode then moves into a powerful and meaningful conversation with Kristin Wiedenfeld, alongside Dr. Richard Deming and Shannon Hardin of the Iowa Oncology Research Association. In advance of Gary's Ride https://www.garysrideiowa.org/ [https://www.garysrideiowa.org/], they share the critical role clinical trials play in advancing cancer treatment, especially for aggressive diseases like glioblastoma. The episode closes on a high note with Marta Sieck-Dolan, who brings all the energy of summer at Timberline Campgrounds - from Saturday morning breakfasts and monthly dinners to themed weekends and exciting news about their sister campground in Newton. Full show notes: https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/mother%E2%80%99s-day-gary%E2%80%99s-ride-and-summer-at-timberline [https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/mother%E2%80%99s-day-gary%E2%80%99s-ride-and-summer-at-timberline]