The Waukee Podcast

04/06/2026

Grounded Kids, Growing Waukee: Education, Opportunity and Community Connections

Summer is in full swing, and this week’s The Waukee Podcast is all about investing in the future of our community—from our youngest learners to the businesses and organizations serving Waukee families every day.

Jamie Morrow Thompson, , kicks off the episode with another edition of “What’s Up Waukee,” highlighting summer activities, community events, family fun, and all the reasons Waukee continues to be one of Iowa’s most vibrant places to live, work, and play.

Next, I sit down with Rhea Parekh, owners of the Primrose Schools. Deepa shares her extensive background in early childhood education and explains why the first five years of a child’s life are so critical to long-term academic and social success. The conversation explores developmental milestones, school readiness, and how parents can better understand their child’s growth through proven assessment tools such as the STAR Early Literacy Assessment and the Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ). Rhea shares her passion for providing exceptional educational experiences, and why investing in early learning creates lasting benefits for families and communities alike.

The episode concludes with Shawn Stenga, founder of Allergenix, who is changing the way patients experience allergy care. Shawn discusses how traditional allergy treatment often leaves patients waiting weeks for appointments and relief, especially during Iowa’s challenging allergy seasons. He shares how Allergenix is creating a more responsive, patient-focused model designed to provide quicker access to care, faster answers, and better outcomes for individuals struggling with seasonal allergies and related conditions.

Whether you’re raising young children, battling seasonal allergies, or simply looking to stay connected to what’s happening in Waukee, this episode offers practical insights, valuable resources, and inspiring stories from people working to make our community stronger every day.

Listen, subscribe, and share as we continue Building Community One Voice at a Time.

https://waukeepodcast.com/

28/05/2026

Summer has officially arrived in Waukee, and this week’s Waukee Podcast is packed with valuable conversations, local leadership, and everything happening around town.

First, we sit down with Jen Nelson from The Iowa Clinic to explore the Executive Health Program and how busy professionals can take a more proactive approach to their health. Jen shares how comprehensive assessments, personalized care planning, and preventative strategies are helping leaders stay healthy, focused, and performing at their best. Learn more about the program here: https://www.iowaclinic.com/specialties/employer-health/executive-health/

We also welcome Rob Grove 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 shares her perspective on community engagement and what makes Waukee such a special place to live and lead.

And of course, Jamie Morrow Thompson returns with all the happenings around town. Pools are open, splash pads are running, patios are filling up, and summer in Waukee is officially underway.

Full show notes:
https://waukeepodcast.com/show-notes/f/executive-health-insights-and-waukee%E2%80%99s-future

Listen, share, and stay connected to the stories shaping Waukee.

Summer is here, and the Waukee Podcast is helping you make the most of it.

27/05/2026

And finally, almost a month later, our interview with Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce’s Citizen of the Year, Travis Black with Shottenkirk Chevrolet! You can’t go anywhere with out seeing Travis. Well deserved!!!

22/05/2026

And now for the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce’s YP of the Year! Madison Starman with Trust Bridge Wealth Advisors. Travis Gaule and Rob Grove, I can’t tag her! Congratulations! Much deserved!! Alysha Davis

21/05/2026

Waukee’s biggest community party is almost here!

This week on The Waukee Podcast, Jamie Morrow Thompson gets us ready for Memorial Day weekend and everything happening around town. Then we sit down with Tom Young and Nate Hardisty from The Waukee Rotary to talk all things Waukee Palooza – happening June 6 from 4:00 – 10:00 PM. From family activities and entertainment to community connection and fun for all ages, Waukee Palooza continues to grow into one of Waukee’s signature events.

We also welcome back Travis Gaule with Trust Bridge Wealth Advisors for another Money Matters segment focused on helping you build toward a work optional lifestyle. Great conversation, great community, and plenty to get excited about as summer arrives in Waukee.

Listen, share, and help us keep building community one conversation at a time.

https://waukeepodcast.com/

19/05/2026

Our final and favorite Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce video of the series. I love this one so much because the Waukee Historical Society clearly enjoys each other and the work they do so much!! Congrats on Non-profit of the Year! Well- deserved. Terry Hogan Snyder - every person regretted that you weren’t in the video - including me!!! Alysha Davis

14/05/2026

Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce’s Medium Sized Business of the Year, Merll’s Pub and Patio! Meet the Tovreas. A tribute to his grandfather, they pay homage to Merll’s legacy of hard-work and patriotism! Alysha Davis

14/05/2026

Mental health. Community leadership. Better days ahead.

This week on the Waukee Podcast, Jamie Morrow Thompson, , kicks things off with all the spring energy happening around Waukee — local events, gatherings, and plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy our community.

Then the conversation turns deeply personal and incredibly important as Chris Whalen, founder of Energy, shares the mission behind the “Better Days” drink and why 100% of the proceeds support the National Alliance on Mental Illness Iowa. Chris opens up about his own journey, the realities of mental health struggles, and the purpose driving the brand far beyond the beverage itself.

We close the episode with Heather Behrens with the City of Waukee and Waukee Library Board President Micki Henderson reflecting on six years of growth and impact through the Waukee library system — and why civic involvement matters more than ever as open board seats become available.

Listen now, share with someone who needs encouragement, and help us continue connecting our community — one voice at a time.

 https://waukeepodcast.com/

14/05/2026

Michael Bartos shined bright at the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Celebration! Ambassador of the year! Well deserved!

12/05/2026

Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce’s Large Employer of the year…Hy-Vee of course!Thanks to Jeff Mallory and his team for all they do!!