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.