17County

Hosted by York County Development Corporation

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Episodes

100

Latest episode

May 2026

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About the show

A podcast dedicated to the hidden voices of rural life, thriving small-town infrastructure, and the people shaping Nebraska’s future. Join host Grace Staehr as she sits down with local leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, and community members to share the stories behind what makes rural communities grow. Brought to you by the York County Development Corporation.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 15, 2026Episode 15425 min

Episode 147 - Joe Miller and the Mission of CASA of York County

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.

May 30, 2026Episode 15329 min

Episode 146 - Mike Henke on Building a Workplace Where People Thrive

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.

May 15, 2026Episode 15231 min

Episode 145 - Betsy Forbis and the Future of the York Chamber of Commerce

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.

April 30, 2026Episode 15117 min

Episode 144 - The Voice of Local Stories: Parker Garlough at York News-Times

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.

April 22, 2026Episode 15031 min

Episode 143 - A New Chapter at Wessels Farm: Shauna Bigelow’s Journey and Ideas

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.

April 3, 2026Episode 14940 min

Episode 142 - It Starts with People: Heather Hultgrien on Culture, Leadership & Growth

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.

March 17, 2026Episode 14821 min

Episode 141 - Tiny Steps, Big Futures: Libby Brouillette & Norah Hernandez at Little Blessings Preschool

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.

February 3, 2026Episode 14715 min

Episode 140 - Introducing Grace Staehr

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.

January 15, 2026Episode 14620 min

2026 Update with Lisa Hurley

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.

January 1, 2026Episode 14532 min

Episode 138 - Ink, Impact, and Involvement: A Conversation with Rick Pfeifer

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.