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, trauma-informed support, helping parents strengthen their skills, rebuild trust, and access the resources they need to keep their families together. It’s compassionate, complex work — and it’s making a measurable difference across Nebraska.

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 the family from the very first conversation. In this episode, we’ll explore her recruiting philosophy, her community outreach work, and how she’s helping Klute meet industry demands while building a strong, people-first culture. 

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 with the Southeast Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance. Today’s conversation is all about why this work matters—how industry leaders are coming together to grow and sustain a talent pipeline, and what it means for the next generation of manufacturers.

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 environment where every child is known, supported, and encouraged. From play-based learning to developmental milestones, Heather is helping build strong foundations for York County’s future — one child at a time.

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 career and what it means to be practicing law where her story began.

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 and strong coordination with case workers — it’s actively working to recruit more foster parents across Nebraska. If you've ever wondered what the foster care system really looks like or how you might be able to help, today’s episode will leave you informed, inspired, and ready to take action.

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 shaped her and the heart she brings to her work every day.

 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 been instrumental in shaping York’s identity as a Certified Creative District. From the stage at York University to the streets of downtown, Clark has helped put creativity at the center of community development. We’re thrilled to dive into how it all came to life—and where it’s headed next.

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 long-term community planning, this is a conversation about vision, leadership, and the partnerships that make it all happen. 

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 investments to strategic care models, Jay is helping redefine aging in place—and what it means to grow older in a community that values its people. 

“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 trends, practical tools for employers, and a strong belief in the power of partnerships to build a more connected labor pipeline. 

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 work is reshaping what a library can be. She’s a connector, a visionary, and someone you’ll definitely want to hear from.

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 connection—showing how following your calling c an lead you exactly where you’re meant to be. We’re excited to share her path and the impact she’s making right here in our community.  

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.yorkdevco.com/.  .. TWITTER: @YorkNEDevCo FACEBOOK:  facebook.com/YorkCountyDevelopmentCorporation/  .. TEAM:Lisa Hurley, Exec. Director Emily Perry, Host  Callie Hurley, Producer from Max Country/KOOL Radio

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/.  .. TWITTER: @YorkNEDevCo FACEBOOK:  facebook.com/YorkCountyDevelopmentCorporation/  .. TEAM:Lisa Hurley, Exec. Director Emily Perry and/or Callie Hurley, Host  Callie Hurley, Producer from Max Country/KOOL Radio

I’m here with Alex Saathoff, director at York County Visitor Bureau, for an update on what they got going on next door!    Sponsors – Max Country/Kool Radio and York Medical Clinic  HOST:  Callie Hurley This podcast is produced by the York County Development Corporation.  For more information, please visit https://www.yorkdevco.com/.  .. TWITTER: @YorkNEDevCo FACEBOOK:  facebook.com/YorkCountyDevelopmentCorporation/  .. TEAM:Lisa Hurley, Exec. Director Emily Perry and/or Callie Hurley, Host  Callie Hurley, Producer from Max Country/KOOL Radio

I’m here with Lisa Hurley, Executive Director here at York County Development Corporation, back for an update!    Sponsors – Black Hills Energy and Kopsa Otte  HOST:  Callie Hurley This podcast is produced by the York County Development Corporation.  For more information, please visit https://www.yorkdevco.com/.  .. TWITTER: @YorkNEDevCo FACEBOOK:  facebook.com/YorkCountyDevelopmentCorporation/  .. TEAM:Lisa Hurley, Exec. Director Emily Perry and/or Callie Hurley, Host  Callie Hurley, Producer from Max Country/KOOL Radio

I’m here with Katelin Rood, owner of local coffee shop, Mack’s Golden Grounds. Welcome to the podcast!  Sponsors – Tall Grass, Union Bank and Trus HOST:  Callie Hurley This podcast is produced by the York County Development Corporation.  For more information, please visit https://www.yorkdevco.com/.  .. TWITTER: @YorkNEDevCo FACEBOOK:  facebook.com/YorkCountyDevelopmentCorporation/  .. TEAM:Lisa Hurley, Exec. Director Emily Perry, Host  Austin Pistulka, Producer from Max Country/KOOL Radio

I’m here with Emily Eggar, she is a York University Alum, a phlebotomist at York General, an assistant at Century House Chiropractic, and is also a volunteer firefighter and EMT with York Fire and Rescue! Welcome to the podcast!  Sponsors – York University, PTUSA York  HOST:  Callie Hurley This podcast is produced by the York County Development Corporation.  For more information, please visit https://www.yorkdevco.com/.  .. TWITTER: @YorkNEDevCo FACEBOOK:  facebook.com/YorkCountyDevelopmentCorporation/  .. TEAM:Lisa Hurley, Exec. Director Emily Perry, Host  Austin Pistulka, Producer from Max Country/KOOL Radio

I am here with Michelle McClelland, she is a local photographer and business owner of The Photo Experience! Welcome to the podcast!  Sponsors - Corteva Agriscience & Green Realty and Auction  HOST:  Callie Hurley This podcast is produced by the York County Development Corporation.  For more information, please visit https://www.yorkdevco.com/.  .. TWITTER: @YorkNEDevCo FACEBOOK:  facebook.com/YorkCountyDevelopmentCorporation/  .. TEAM:Lisa Hurley, Exec. Director Emily Perry, Host  Austin Pistulka, Producer from Max Country/KOOL Radio