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Manufacturing offers more than jobs—it offers opportunities to develop valuable skills and build lasting careers. In this special Manufacturing Month episode of the 17 County Podcast, Delta Wilson from the Nebraska Department of Labor shares how registered apprenticeships help participants earn a paycheck while gaining hands-on experience, completing technical instruction, and working toward a nationally recognized credential. Delta also introduces the Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance Credential and highlights how employers and community colleges work together to prepare Nebraska’s workforce. Whether you’re exploring a new career, helping a student plan for the future, or looking to develop your employees’ skills, this conversation highlights opportunities across Nebraska’s manufacturing industry.

Episode 154 – Rachel Kloke: The Central Navigator and YC3 Supporting York County Families Life can change unexpectedly, and knowing where to turn for help is not always easy. In this episode of the 17 County Podcast, Rachel Kloke, Central Navigator for YC3, shares how she helps individuals and families throughout York County connect with resources and support. From housing and utilities to transportation and healthcare, Rachel explains how YC3 helps residents navigate essential needs. She also discusses its community partnerships, new community coaching services, and why asking for help should never carry a stigma. Learn how local connections and compassionate support can help York County residents move forward—one step at a time.

In this episode of the 17 County Podcast, artist Jasmine Young and Dr. Clark Roush, director of the York Creative District, share the story behind the colorful new mural on the north wall of York’s historic Sun Theatre. Jasmine discusses her journey as a self-taught artist and business owner, the experiences that shaped her creative style, and the inspiration behind the mural, which was designed to capture the feeling of a Friday night at the movies with family. She also takes us behind the scenes of the 55-day painting process—from working in extreme heat and overcoming her fear of heights to navigating unexpected challenges while bringing the large-scale design to life. Dr. Roush explains how York became a certified Creative District, how community partnerships and financial support made the mural possible, and why public art plays an important role in strengthening community pride, enhancing quality of life, and supporting downtown development. Together, they reflect on the relationships formed throughout the project, the community’s enthusiastic response, and the power of art to create joy, spark conversations, and inspire future generations of artists. If you’re passionate about public art, creativity, community collaboration, or the continued revitalization of downtown York, this episode is for you.

In Episode 152 of the 17 County Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Tim Westbrook, President of York University, to learn more about the person behind the leadership and his vision for the university’s future. Dr. Westbrook shares his personal and professional journey, what led him to York University, and how his experiences have shaped his approach to leadership. We discuss the university’s mission, recent growth and development, and the important role York University plays in the York community and across the region. The conversation also explores the opportunities and challenges facing higher education, the importance of preparing students for meaningful careers and lives of service, and how strong partnerships between the university and the community can create long-term impact. If you’re interested in leadership, education, community development, or the future of York University, this episode offers an inspiring look at the vision guiding one of York County’s most important institutions.

In this episode of the 17 County Podcast, we sit down with Lisa Hurley, Executive Director of York County Development Corporation, for an inside look at several projects helping shape the future of York County. Lisa explains why housing is an essential part of economic development and how YCDC’s Rural Workforce Housing Revolving Loan Fund can support smaller multifamily projects, upper-story housing, and the rehabilitation of existing homes. We also introduce the new “Did You Know?” campaign, which is designed to highlight the businesses, products, services, organizations, and people found throughout York County. Lisa shares why supporting local businesses and telling their stories are important parts of strengthening our economy. The conversation also explores the third annual SPARK Small Business Pitch Contest, the resources available to local entrepreneurs, and how even a small amount of funding can help move a business forward. Finally, Lisa takes us behind the scenes of YCDC’s five-year strategic planning process, its newly identified target industries, and the importance of using data, collaboration, and long-term thinking to prepare York County for future opportunities. If you’re interested in housing, entrepreneurship, community development, or the strategy behind York County’s growth, this episode offers a closer look at the work happening behind the scenes.

In this episode of the 17 County Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Bailey Neville, founder of Countryside Pediatric Dentistry, to talk about building a specialized dental practice, raising a family, and creating opportunities in rural Nebraska. Dr. Bailey shares how her interest in dentistry began, what inspired her to specialize in pediatric care, and why she chose to return to the area to open her own practice. She discusses the journey from dental school to entrepreneurship, the challenges and rewards of building a business from the ground up, and how she balances being a dentist, business owner, and mother. We also talk about creating positive dental experiences for children, supporting families in rural communities, and the importance of having access to specialized healthcare close to home. If you’re interested in healthcare, entrepreneurship, motherhood, or the stories of professionals choosing to invest in rural Nebraska, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

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 the way led her to an internship focused on tourism and community promotion. We talk about the projects she's working on this summer, the hidden places and stories she's discovering across York County, and why internships and local connections can create meaningful opportunities for young professionals. She also shares her perspective on small-town life, why there's more to do in York County than people may think, and how learning to appreciate the quiet, simple moments has shaped the way she sees her community. If you're a student, a young professional, or someone who thinks they already know everything York County has to offer, this episode might inspire you to take another look.

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 hospitality industry, why he chose entrepreneurship over a traditional college path, and how his parents' guidance gave him the confidence to lead the construction and opening of his first hotel. We also discuss why York stood out as the right place to invest, the importance of partnerships in economic development, and how quality hospitality plays a vital role in supporting business growth and attracting visitors to rural communities. If you're interested in entrepreneurship, leadership, economic development, or the stories of the people investing in the future of York County, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

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 impact volunteers can have, and why strong communities are built by people who choose to show up for one another. Joe also shares the incredible work happening behind the scenes at CASA, the challenges and rewards of child advocacy, and how anyone can get involved to make a difference. If you care about family, community, leadership, and creating a brighter future for the next generation, this episode is for you.

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 people at work, why culture matters, and how leaders can turn everyday interactions into opportunities to build trust, loyalty, and performance. Whether you're a business owner, manager, entrepreneur, or aspiring leader, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways for creating a workplace where people want to stay, grow, and succeed.

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 community involvement matters now more than ever. We talk about leadership, connection, collaboration, and the role local organizations play in helping rural communities thrive. If you care about local leadership and the future of York County, this episode is for you.

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 important than ever. This is more than a conversation about journalism. It is about curiosity, connection, and being the link between a community and the stories that define it.

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 already means so much to the community. This is more than a conversation about a role. It’s about growth, ideas, and the future of Wessels Farm.

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 takeaways and honest moments. Because strong communities are built the same way strong teams are… intentionally.

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 communities. Because big futures don’t just happen… they start with tiny steps.