17County

If there’s one thing that can transform a business, a team, or a community… it’s people. In this episode, Heather 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 and Norah 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.

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 involvement and ensuring his community continues to thrive. His blend of professional expertise and local pride makes him a powerful advocate for York County and beyond.

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, authentic ways.

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. 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.