Wellness at work is about more than fitness programs or healthy snacks in the break room. It is about creating an environment where employees can thrive, feel supported, and bring their best selves to work every day.

In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., host Bailey Dingfield sits down with fellow host Kacie Schumann, Health Promotions Coordinator for the City of Ames, to turn the tables and learn more about the person behind the podcast. Kacie shares how she found her passion for health promotion, what her role looks like behind the scenes, and why employee well-being plays such an important role in building healthy organizations and communities.

The conversation explores the many dimensions of workplace wellness, including the unique challenges faced by employees who work directly with the public, common misconceptions about health and wellness, and practical ways organizations can foster a culture where employees feel supported and empowered to succeed.

As Bailey wraps up her internship with the City of Ames, this episode also marks her final appearance as co-host of Live Well. Be Well. Thank you, Bailey, for bringing curiosity, thoughtful conversations, and a passion for wellness to the podcast. We wish you all the best in your next adventure.

Episode Highlights

Getting to Know Kacie
Kacie shares her journey into health promotion, what inspired her career, and what she enjoys most about helping others improve their well-being.

What Does a Health Promotions Coordinator Do?
An inside look at the variety of programs, initiatives, and partnerships that help promote employee wellness across the City of Ames.

Practicing What You Promote
Kacie discusses the habits and routines she uses to care for her own physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

The Connection Between Work and Wellness
A conversation about how workplace culture, personal health, and overall well-being are closely interconnected.

Supporting Public-Facing Employees
The discussion explores the unique wellness challenges experienced by employees who regularly serve the public and strategies for building resilience.

Breaking Wellness Myths
Kacie addresses common misconceptions about health and wellness and explains why there is no one-size-fits-all approach to living well.

Building a Healthier Workplace
The episode concludes with a look at the goals of employee wellness programs and how investing in people benefits both employees and the organization as a whole.

Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast?

Send suggestions to Kacie.Schumann@CityofAmes.org