Louped In

Louped In: Jonathan Niles

Stay Louped In with the people and stories that bring heart to Columbus, Nebraska. Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Director of General Services, this podcast highlights the individuals making a meaningful impact in our community.
This week, we’re joined by Jonathan Niles, pastor at Highland Park Church and a passionate advocate for youth in foster care. Jonathan shares about Royal Family Kids Camp, a special camp experience designed to create positive, lasting memories for children in the foster care system. He talks about why this mission matters, his love for the Columbus community, and the role faith and service play in his life.
Jonathan and Betsy also take a fun trip down memory lane, sharing their own experiences and stories from YMCA camps—reminding us all of the lasting impact those moments can have.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because sometimes the smallest moments create the biggest impact.

Louped In: Nick Larson

Stay Louped In with the people who make Columbus, Nebraska a strong and connected community. Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Director of General Services, this podcast highlights the individuals who give their time and energy to make a difference.
This week, we’re joined by Nick Larson, member of the Board of Park Commissioners and dedicated volunteer with the Legion Baseball program. Nick shares what makes Columbus feel like home for him and his family, and how his involvement in parks and youth sports helps strengthen the community. From supporting local recreation to mentoring young athletes, Nick talks about the lasting impact of volunteering and why it matters.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because community grows stronger when we show up for each other. ⚾🌳

Louped In: Cynthia Alarcon

Stay Louped In with the people helping guide the future of Columbus, Nebraska. Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Director of General Services, this podcast brings you conversations with the leaders and neighbors serving our community.
This week, we’re joined by Councilwoman Cynthia Alarcon, who represents Ward 1 on the Columbus City Council. Cynthia was appointed to the position after longtime Councilwoman Beth Augustine-Schulte moved out of the district, and she has since stepped forward to run for the seat in this year’s election. In this episode, Cynthia shares what it means to serve her ward and community, along with the balance of her roles as an educator, wife, and parent. She also reflects on why Columbus is home and why she is passionate about representing the people of Ward 1.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because community leadership starts with people who care deeply about where they live.

Louped In: Fred Ritter & Kara Asmus

Stay Louped In with the people and organizations that bring the Columbus community together. Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Director of General Services, this podcast highlights the stories and voices that make Columbus, Nebraska special.
This week’s guests are Fred Ritter and Kara Asmus from the Columbus Area Vertical Voices. They share the history of the group, their mission of using music to uplift and connect people, and their current effort to recruit new members to join the choir. Fred and Kara also talk about preparations for the upcoming National Day of Prayer, including how this year’s celebration will look a little different from years past.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because when voices come together, communities grow stronger. 
 
 
 

Louped In: Neal Suess

Get Louped In with the leaders who have helped shape Columbus, Nebraska. Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Director of General Services, this podcast shares the stories behind the people who invest their time, talent, and heart into our community.
This week, we’re joined by Neal Suess, recently retired CEO of Loup Power. Neal reflects on what originally brought him to Columbus and why he chose to build both his career and his life here. Now entering retirement, he shares what’s keeping him rooted in the community and how volunteerism—something that has long influenced his life—will continue to play a major role in this next chapter.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because leadership doesn’t end at retirement, it evolves.

Louped In: Alondra Castillo

Stay Louped In with the people helping Columbus, Nebraska grow and thrive! Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Director of General Services, this podcast introduces you to the leaders and rising stars serving our community.
This week, we welcome Alondra Castillo, the new Park and Recreation Coordinator for the City of Columbus. A proud Columbus native and recent graduate of Wayne State College, Alondra is excited to begin her career in her hometown. With a passion for program development and event planning, she shares what drew her to Parks and Recreation and what residents can look forward to in the months ahead.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because the next generation of leadership is right here at home.

Louped In: Kat Lopez

Get Louped In with the people shaping the future of Columbus, Nebraska! Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Director of General Services, this podcast highlights the voices and stories behind our community’s leadership and growth.
This week, we’re joined by Councilwoman Kat Lopez, one of the youngest members of the Columbus City Council. Kat shares what inspired her to run for office and why civic engagement matters to the next generation of leaders. She also talks about her work at Centro Hispano, the importance of family, and her desire to raise a family right here in Columbus. Her story is one of service, representation, and a deep commitment to the community she calls home.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because the future of Columbus is being shaped today.

Louped In: Dave Boswell

We’re back for 2026 and getting Louped In with the people who keep Columbus running strong! Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Director of General Services, this podcast continues to bring you conversations with the individuals making a difference in our community.
This week’s guest is Dave Boswell—known to many as “Stormwater Dave.” Dave talks about why taking care of what goes into our stormwater system is so important and how everyday actions can have a big impact on our environment and infrastructure. He also shares insights from his years serving in the U.S. Navy and how that experience shaped his commitment to public service.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because protecting our community starts from the ground up.

Louped In: Adi Perez

Get Louped In with the people and creativity that make Columbus, Nebraska vibrant and unique. Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Director of General Services, this podcast highlights the individuals and programs enriching our community.
This week, we’re joined by Adi Perez, Columbus Community Building Outreach Coordinator. Adi shares how she helps support and operate the Columbus Art Gallery and her passion for promoting the arts throughout the community. From connecting residents with creative experiences to encouraging a love of art in all its forms, Adi talks about how the arts play an important role in bringing people together in Columbus.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because creativity is at the heart of a thriving community.

Louped In: Ryan Gray

Stay Louped In with the people who keep Columbus safe, strong, and informed! Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Parks and Recreation Director, this podcast brings you conversations with leaders making an impact across our community.
This week, we’re joined by Fire Chief Ryan Gray. Chief Gray talks about important fire safety practices—especially during the winter months when risks increase. From heating safety to holiday hazards, he shares what residents should keep in mind to keep their families and homes safe. He also provides an update on how the Columbus Fire Department has been performing, the challenges they see, and the progress they’re proud of.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because safety starts with awareness.