Amazing Education Podcast

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 journe...

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,...

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.