17County

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 immersed in the...

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 r...

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...

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 Cha...

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 loc...

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...

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 ta...

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 s...

Eric introduces Grace Staehr, the new Event Coordinator for YCDC. She talks about getting settled in her new role, upcoming events for YCDC and what listeners can expect for the podcast.

On this episode of the 17 County Podcast, we bid a fond farewell to Emily Perry as she pursues a new endeavor, meet the new YCDC Event Coordinator, Grace Staehr and get a look ahead at upcoming functions with Lisa Hurley.

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 involvemen...

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...

Sebastion Rodriguez is a York native and served as an intern for the City of York. From heavy involvement to personal growth, Sebastian brings a unique perspective to what it is like to grow up in York.

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. Sh...

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 Southe...

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 ProC...

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...

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 o...

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...

 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 visio...

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...

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...

“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 brin...

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 ne...