Jamie Thompson kicks off the episode with A TON of things to do in Waukee and all over the metro. Michelle Hill discusses the Waukee Community School District’s APEX program that provides students with invaluable work-based learning opportunities that allow them to explore various industries, apply academic concepts in practical settings, and develop skills aligned with workforce demands. Since its inception in 2014, APEX has evolved into a nationally recognized leader in Career and Technical Education, attracting students interested in trades, health sciences, engineering, and business. If you are a parent, a grandparent, or simply a neighbor, it's a fascinating conversation that highlights one more area Waukee is dominating other communities!

The program’s continued growth has led to the construction of a new facility wing focused specifically on trades, offering students access to advanced resources like a paint booth, robotics, and construction training. The community can experience the impact of this program firsthand at the APEX Showcase on December 12th. Contact Michelle Hill at mhill@waukeeschools.org to schedule a tour.

Once again, we are asking you to please donate to the Waukee Christian Services Campaign. $1 per person! Let's do it!

Click here for full show notes: https://waukeetalkeepodcast.com/waukee-talkee

On this week’s Waukee Talkee Podcast, Leisa talks with Amy Walsh, owner of Mickey's in Waukee, about her experiences as a local business owner. Amy recounts the fire that nearly destroyed Mickey's patio and highlights how the community supported their recovery. She explains Mickey’s success with customer service, which is achieved by creating long-term career paths for staff, ensuring stability and quality service.

Joined by Jamie Thompson from What's Up Waukee, Amy reflects on how Mickey's brings people together, from families at weekend brunch to music lovers on Saturday nights. They discuss the importance of maintaining Waukee's small-town feel, exemplifying Waukee Talkee’s mission of “Connecting Community One Voice at a Time.”

Click here for full show notes: https://waukeetalkeepodcast.com/waukee-talkee

https://waukeetalkeepodcast.com/waukee-talkee/f/a-season-of-giving-community-events-and-holiday-challengeIn this festive edition of Waukee Talkee, Jamie Thompson’s What's Up Waukee segment brings updates on the upcoming holiday season, including Santa’s much-anticipated arrival and community holiday events. We also introduce Waukee WORKS, a new segment with Jessica Taylor Fink of the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce, where she recaps recent events, shares upcoming opportunities, and highlights new Chamber members.

To wrap up, Melissa Stimple and AJ Hanson from Waukee Christian Services present their “Share Your Holiday Blessings” campaign, aimed at helping families in need. Host Leisa Fox announces the Waukee Talkee Facebook challenge, encouraging listeners to join in and contribute to the campaign by donating just $1.

Click here for full show notes: https://waukeetalkeepodcast.com/waukee-talkee/f/a-season-of-giving-community-events-and-holiday-challenge

This episode features Waukee Mayor Courtney Clarke and Communications Director Heather Behrens discussing two vital ballot issues: the Aquatic Center referendum and the proposed expansion of the Dallas County Board of Supervisors. They break down project details, market demand, and the growing population's need for updated amenities and representation.

Later in the episode, Jamie Thompson from What's Up Waukee shares spooky weekend happenings, while Aly Davis talks with Danni Kastner from OPE about holistic wellness practices like sound therapy and Reiki.

Click here for the show notes: https://waukeetalkeepodcast.com/waukee-talkee/f/aquatic-center-and-the-healing-power-of-sound

This week, Jamie Thompson returns for *What’s Up Waukee* with exciting Halloween events and introduces her new project, *The Community Birthday Party*, which provides birthday supplies for families in need. Brandi Smith joins the podcast to share the lighthearted story of her walks through Waukee with her skeleton companions, Priscilla, Prissy, and Polly. Her daily strolls have become a delightful sight for neighbors, creating fun connections.

We end the episode with Steffaney Cronin of SJC Builders, who discusses her deep-rooted ties to Waukee and the exciting new project on the Triangle. Steffaney shares her vision for a combined retail and professional services space and the importance of creating an accessible facility that serves all community members. Don’t forget to provide your feedback on what services should be included in the attached Facebook post!

Click here for the full show notes: https://waukeetalkeepodcast.com/waukee-talkee/f/barber-jerry-wright%E2%80%99s-legacy

In this episode of the Waukee Talkee Podcast, Jamie Thompson returns with her “What’s Up Waukee” segment to spotlight family-friendly fall activities, including local pumpkin patches, wellness events, and spooky haunted houses. Leisa is also joined by Dave Schwartz to discuss the “God’s Heart at Work” event, which brings together business leaders across the metro for a day of learning and networking. Tara Kammerer, founder of Relax & Enjoy Travel, joins to share expert tips on planning the perfect holiday or spring break vacation, touching on top destinations, best values, and why using a travel agent makes all the difference.

Listeners will come away with an exciting weekend agenda, insights on why business leaders should attend the God's Heart at Work event, and expert travel advice for stress-free holiday planning

Click here for the full show notes: https://waukeetalkeepodcast.com/waukee-talkee/f/fall-fun-and-spring-break-prep

This week’s *Waukee Talkee Podcast* tackles one of the most pressing concerns in the community—coyotes. Andy Kellner, Wildlife Biologist with the Iowa DNR, joins us to share everything you need to know about safely coexisting with coyotes, raccoons, and other urban wildlife. With recent sightings causing concern in Waukee, Andy explains how to protect your family, pets, and property while respecting these animals’ role in the ecosystem. Don’t miss this important conversation to learn what to do when coyotes get too close and how to reduce risks in your own backyard.

In addition, Aly Davis from Fit and Fierce 515 introduces us to Salt Therapy, a natural and powerful treatment that’s gaining popularity in Iowa. Find out how this ancient remedy can help with everything from respiratory issues to skin conditions. Plus, Jamie Thompson is back with her “What’s Up Waukee” segment, filled with exciting weekend events, from Wauktoberfest to family yoga. Whether you’re looking to unwind or have some fun, there’s something for everyone! Tune in and get ready for an action-packed episode.

Click here for the show notes: https://waukeetalkeepodcast.com/waukee-talkee/f/coyotes-salt-therapy-stay-safe-and-breathe-easy-in-waukee

In this episode of the **Waukee Talkee Podcast**, Jamie Thompson returns with her popular "What's Up Waukee" segment, sharing the latest family and community events around Waukee. Highlights include Waukee High School’s Homecoming festivities, a bubble-filled dance party at the Clive Public Library, and the Mom & Son Tailgate event at Lutheran Church of Hope. Jamie also mentions Heroes Weekend at Howell’s Pumpkin Patch, a free outdoor movie night at Walnut Creek Park featuring *Coco*, and fun date ideas like Oktoberfest in Des Moines and apple picking at Iowa Orchard.

The episode also features special guest **Jake Larson**, Chair of **Wauktoberfest**, who gives an inside look at the highly anticipated event happening on October 5th. Jake shares details about volunteering opportunities, ticket information, and what to expect at this year’s celebration. Additionally, **Mark Hanson**, from the **Dallas County Board of Supervisors**, joins the conversation to discuss the critical role Dallas County plays in supporting Waukee's growth and vitality, from infrastructure improvements to essential public services.

Click here for the show notes: https://waukeetalkeepodcast.com/waukee-talkee/f/waukee-talkee-podcast---family-community-update-with-jamie