17County

Today we’re joined by Rick Pfeifer, a familiar face both in local journalism and in community leadership. Rick brings years of experience in media as the Circulation Manager with a local news outlet, giving him a deep understanding of how stories connect people and shape communities. Beyond his professional work, Rick is also a Village Board Member in Waco, where he’s dedicated to civic involvement and ensuring his community contin...

Welcome today’s guest, Eric Eckert—a creative powerhouse with a deep background in media and journalism. He’s the go-to for website development, content production, and digital branding in York. On top of that, he’s deeply involved in the local skateboarding community, where he helps organize and elevate grassroots efforts. Eric brings fresh energy, big ideas, and a passion for helping people tell their stories in engaging, authent...

Today we’re joined by someone doing quiet, powerful work behind the scenes to support families when they need it most. Sheila Decker is the In-Home Family Services Manager at Epworth Family Services, where she leads a dedicated team working with families referred through Nebraska DHHS. These are families facing real challenges — often tied to safety, stability, or risk of out-of-home placement. Sheila and her team provide tailored,...

Today, we’re talking with Kiley Palmertree, Recruiting Manager at Klute Inc., one of the nation’s leading substation steel fabricators. Kiley brings over 18 years of experience in relationship management — from education to banking — and now uses her gift for connection to attract top-tier talent and align them with Klute’s long-term vision. She’s known for her optimism, kindness, and the way she makes candidates feel like part of ...

Today we’re sitting down with someone who's at the front lines of both high-tech manufacturing and long-term workforce strategy. Doug Rood is the Senior Manager of Operations Quality at Collins Aerospace in York, a global player in aerospace manufacturing and a major employer in our region. Beyond the production floor, Doug plays a vital role in shaping the future of manufacturing talent in Southeast Nebraska through his leadership...

Today’s guest plays a critical role in helping our youngest learners grow with confidence, curiosity, and care. Heather Nunnenkamp is the Director of Little Jewels Childcare and Enrichment Center — an early childhood program dedicated to nurturing children from infancy through preschool age. Under Heather’s leadership, Little Jewels has not only embraced a strong, research-based curriculum in ProCare, but also built a family-first ...

Today’s guest brings both deep roots and broad horizons to the table. Elizabeth Fillman, now one of the leading attorneys at Fillman Law Offices in York, grew up right here in our community—before taking off to pursue education at a prestigious university and practice law in major metro areas. Her journey is one of ambition, excellence, and ultimately, choosing to come home. We’re thrilled to hear how her experiences shaped her car...

Today’s guest brings both heart and leadership to one of the most vital conversations we can have — how we care for children in crisis. Sheryl Canales is the Director of the Foster Care Program at Epworth Family Services, where she leads a team committed to providing safe, stable, and nurturing homes for kids who cannot live with their biological families. Under her direction, the program is not only ensuring trauma-informed care a...

Today’s guest is the kind of educator every community hopes for — insightful, deeply dedicated, and always growing in her craft. Joanna Carver serves as the Elementary Counselor and Media Specialist at McCool Junction, where she supports students both emotionally and academically. Her path to this role is filled with purpose, personal growth, and a few unexpected stops along the way. We're excited to unpack the experiences that sha...

 Cultivating Creativity: How the York Creative District Took Shape

Dr. Clark Roush, Endowed Chair for the Performing Arts at York University & Director of the York Creative District 

Today’s guest is someone who needs no introduction if you’ve ever attended a concert, walked past a mural downtown, or been part of the creative pulse in York. Dr. Clark Roush brings passion, leadership, and vision to everything he touches—and he’s...

Today on the 17-County Podcast, we’re joined by someone at the heart of community leadership and strategic momentum—Barry Redfern, the Mayor of York. With a strong commitment to public service and smart growth, Barry has been instrumental in moving York forward with impactful projects that address both today’s needs and tomorrow’s opportunities. From enhanced public safety facilities to proactive economic development strategies and...

Today’s guest is Jay Colburn, Vice President of Long Term Care Services at York General. Jay’s journey into healthcare leadership is rooted in a deep respect for community, quality of life, and the belief that aging should come with dignity, independence, and support. Under his leadership, York General is not only growing its facilities but also expanding the vision of what long-term care can and should be. From infrastructure inve...

“Connecting Talent and Opportunity: The Future of Workforce Development” 

Today’s guest is Sam Witherby, a passionate advocate for workforce solutions and a key player on the team at CareerPathway.com. With strengths in outreach and community engagement, Sam helps connect individuals, businesses, and educators to a powerful digital platform that aligns talent with real-world opportunities. He brings insight into emerging workforce ...

Beyond the Books: Libraries as Anchors of Community Advocacy, Access, and Innovation

Today’s guest is Deb Robertson, a dynamic force behind some of the most forward-thinking work happening in York. As Director of Kilgore Memorial Library, Deb is leading big-picture conversations, launching creative community projects, and turning bold ideas into action. From reimagining public space to building new partnerships and programs, her wo...

Leading with Care: A Journey into Nursing and Community Leadership

Today’s guest is Heather Brahmsteadt, the Nursing Director of Med Surg at York General, is a leader whose career journey is rooted in purpose, growth, and a true passion for helping others. Through a series of experiences, challenges, and opportunities, she has built a career that touches countless lives every day. Her story is one of dedication, leadership, and con...

From just next door, we chat with Madonna Mogul today: The Executive Director at the York Chamber of Commerce. Lover of the community, Mogul tells us about recent Chamber events, community changes, and some of her favorite milestones. 

Sponsors: York Public Schools, Southeast Community College

HOST:  Emily Perry

This podcast is produced by the York County Development Corporation.  For more information, please visit https://www....

From a new location to time and true community help and involvement, we dive deep with Avery Blum, Executive Director at York County Community Coalition. 

Sponsors: K-Junction/OPPD and Overland Ready Mixed 

HOST:  Callie Hurley

This podcast is produced by the York County Development Corporation.  For more information, please visit https://www.yorkdevco.com/. 

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TWITTER: @YorkNEDevCo

FACEBOOK:  facebook.com/YorkCountyDevelopmen...