Live Well, Be Well: The Next Chapter of Community Wellness with Claire Eagan

Wellness is about more than exercise. It is about finding activities you enjoy, building healthy habits, connecting with others, and discovering what helps you feel your best. In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., host Kacie Schumann sits down with Claire Eagan, the new Public Wellness Manager with Ames Parks and Recreation. Claire shares what brought her to the world of fitness and wellness, what interested her in joining the City of Ames, and what excites her about helping people throughout the community live healthier lives. Claire also talks about stepping into a role previously held by longtime Public Wellness Manager Nancy Shaw, what she has learned during her first few months on the job, and the ideas and perspectives she hopes to bring to the position. Episode Highlights Meet Claire Eagan Get to know Claire, her previous experiences, and what inspired her to pursue a career focused on fitness and wellness. Finding Your Own Version of Wellness Wellness looks different for everyone. Claire discusses the areas she is passionate about and how she incorporates wellness into her own everyday life. Building a Healthier Ames Claire shares what excites her about working with the Ames community and some of the qualities that make Ames a great place to pursue a healthy lifestyle. More Than Exercise Recreation programs can support physical health, mental well-being, social connections, and much more. The conversation explores the broader role recreation can play in our lives. Taking the First Step Want to improve your well-being but aren't sure where to begin? Claire offers advice for starting small and for anyone who might feel a little nervous about trying a new Parks and Recreation class or activity. Stepping Into a New Role Claire reflects on following longtime Public Wellness Manager Nancy Shaw, what she has learned during the transition, and what she hopes to bring to the role. Looking to the Future of Wellness What could community wellness look like in the years and decades ahead? Claire shares some of the changes she would like to see as the field continues to evolve. Ready to find an activity that's right for you? Explore the full lineup of Ames Parks and Recreation classes, programs, and activities at AmesParkRec.org Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast? Send suggestions to [email protected]