17County

In this episode of the 17 County Podcast, we sit down with Felicity Johnson, a recent York University graduate and summer intern with the York County Visitors Bureau, to talk about finding opportunities close to home and discovering everything York County has to offer.

Felicity shares how growing up in the area, her experience at York University, and the connections she built along ...

In this episode of the 17 County Podcast, we sit down with Kishan Chaudhari, the 23-year-old entrepreneur behind York's new Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites, to hear the inspiring story of how hard work, family values, and a vision for the future led him to one of York County's most significant recent development projects.

Kishan shares what it was like growing up in a family ...

In this episode of the 17 County Podcast, we sit down with Joe Miller, the new Executive Director of CASA of York County, to talk about the life experiences that led him to a career of serving and advocating for children. A former educator and father of three adopted sons, Joe shares his passion for creating stability and hope for young people facing difficult circumstances.

We explore what CASA really does, the life-changing impac...

In this episode of the 17 County Podcast, we sit down with leadership speaker and business consultant Mike Henke to discuss what it takes to build a workplace where people thrive.

Mike shares insights on company culture, employee engagement, leadership, and retention, along with practical strategies that organizations of any size can use to create stronger teams and better employee experiences. We also explore what truly motivates ...

In this episode of the 17 County Podcast, we sit down with Betsy Forbis, the new Executive Director of the York Chamber of Commerce. Betsy has spent her life in York, and now she’s stepping into a leadership role focused on supporting the businesses, people, and relationships that make the community strong.

In this episode, Betsy shares her journey, what excites her most about leading the York Chamber of Commerce, and why com...

Parker Garlough is helping tell the stories that shape York County every day.

In this episode, we talk about Parker’s journey into journalism, what brought them to a small-town community like York, and what it really looks like to cover local stories that matter. From showing up at events to reporting on decisions that impact everyday life, Parker shares a behind-the-scenes look at the role of local news and why it is more im...

Shauna Bigelow steps into her new role as Director of Wessels Living History Farm with a strong background, fresh perspective, and big ideas for the future.

In this episode, we talk about her journey, what led her to York County, and how she plans to build on the legacy of one of the area’s most unique destinations. From leadership to vision, this conversation highlights what it takes to bring new energy into a place that alr...

If there’s one thing that can transform a business, a team, or a community… it’s people.

In this episode, Heather Hultgrien returns to the podcast for the third time to share insights on leadership, employee engagement, and what it really means to create a workplace where people want to be. From small daily interactions to big-picture leadership decisions, this conversation is full of practical takeaway...

What does the future of a community look like? 

It starts in a preschool classroom.

In this episode, Libby Brouillette and Norah Hernandez from Little Blessings Preschool share how small, everyday moments—learning, playing, feeling safe—are shaping the next generation in York County. This is more than childcare. It’s about building confidence, supporting families, and creating the foundation for strong commun...

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 inv...

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 stor...

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 provi...

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...

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 lead...

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 bui...

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 experien...