Louped In

Louped In: Shuraya Choat

Podcast Title: Louped InPresented by the City of Columbus
Get Louped In with the people who keep the City of Columbus running smoothly! Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Parks and Recreation Director, this podcast highlights the dedicated individuals serving our community every day.
This week, we’re joined by Shuraya Choat, City Clerk for the City of Columbus. Shuraya shares what it means to serve as City Clerk—the vital behind-the-scenes work that keeps city government transparent, organized, and accessible to residents. From managing public records to supporting City Council meetings, she offers a look at a role that touches nearly every part of local government.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because understanding how your city works starts with the people who help make it happen.

Louped In: David Catsinas

Stay Louped In with the people who make Columbus, Nebraska a thriving place to live, work, and grow. Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Parks and Recreation Director, this podcast spotlights the stories and leaders shaping our community.
This week’s guest is David Catsinas. David shares what brought him to Columbus and how his role at First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) connects him to the heart of the community. Beyond his professional work, David also talks about his dedication to volunteering, giving back, and helping make Columbus an even better place for everyone.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because when people invest their time and talents locally, our whole community grows stronger.

Louped In: Nicole Saalfeld

Get Louped In with the voices and stories that bring Columbus, Nebraska to life! Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Parks and Recreation Director, this podcast highlights the people and projects shaping our community.
This week, we’re joined by Nicole Saalfeld, entrepreneur, business owner, and proud part of the Trackside District. Nicole talks about her journey as a small business owner, the balance between running a business and raising a family, and what drives her passion for community. She also shares the details on the upcoming Miracle on 13th Street shopping event happening November 20th in the Trackside District—an evening filled with holiday cheer, local shopping, and festive fun.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because supporting local means celebrating the people who make Columbus shine.

Louped In: Todd Duren

Stay Louped In with the people driving growth and progress in Columbus, Nebraska! Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Parks and Recreation Director, this podcast highlights the leaders and stories shaping our community’s future.
This week, we’re joined by Todd Duren, Vice President of Corporate Services at Loup Public Power District. Todd shares his passion for economic development and his deep commitment to Columbus’s continued success. Through his leadership role at Loup and his volunteer work with the Chamber of Commerce, Todd has been a key player in bringing exciting new opportunities to the community—including helping lead efforts to bring the Amazon Distribution Center to Columbus.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because collaboration, vision, and community partnerships power progress.

Louped In: Halloween Edition

Get Louped In—Halloween style! 👻 This special edition of the City of Columbus podcast features your hosts, Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Parks and Recreation Director, turning the microphones on each other!
In this festive and lighthearted episode, Matt and Betsy share how they each got started in Columbus, what their roles involve, and why they love serving this community. They also sprinkle in a few Halloween-inspired fun facts about Columbus that are sure to surprise (and maybe even spook!) you.
Grab your candy corn and tune in for this frightfully fun episode of Louped In—where community stories meet Halloween spirit!

Louped In: Ron Schilling

Welcome to Louped In—your inside look at the people and stories that make Columbus, Nebraska a great place to call home. Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Parks and Recreation Director, this podcast highlights the leaders, neighbors, and programs shaping our community.
This week, we’re joined by longtime City Council member Ron Schilling. Ron shares how he came to Columbus, built roots, and found a passion for giving back through decades of service. He talks about his years coaching baseball and how the sport helps teach life skills that last well beyond the field. With 21 years on City Council, Ron also reflects on what he’s learned through public service and offers thoughtful advice for anyone considering a run for local office.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because leadership, teamwork, and community all start right here at home.

Louped In: Theresa Grape

Get Louped In with the people and places that make Columbus and Platte County shine! Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Parks and Recreation Director, this podcast connects you to the stories, events, and organizations that keep our community thriving.
This week’s guest is Theresa Grape from the Columbus Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Theresa shares some fun facts about tourism in Platte County, what draws visitors to the area, and how tourism benefits our local economy. She also gives us a sneak peek at some exciting upcoming events you won’t want to miss!
Tune in and stay Louped In—because there’s always something to discover in Columbus.

Louped In: Rich Jablonski

Get Louped In with the people who help guide and grow Columbus, Nebraska! Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Parks and Recreation Director, this podcast shines a light on community leaders, local projects, and the stories behind them.
This week, we’re joined by Rich Jablonski, City Council President. Rich shares how he first came to call Columbus home, what motivates him to give back, and what serving on the City Council means to him. From his passion for community service to his hopes for the city’s future, this episode offers an inspiring look at leadership rooted in dedication and heart.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because when people care deeply about their community, great things happen.

Louped In: Jean Van Iperen

Stay Louped In with the people and projects shaping the future of Columbus, Nebraska! Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Parks and Recreation Director, this podcast gives you a front-row seat to the voices making a difference in our community.
This week, we welcome Jean Van Iperen, City Planning and Economic Development Coordinator for the City of Columbus. Jean serves as the liaison between the City and several key partners, including the Business Improvement District, the Trax Creative District, and the Columbus Art Gallery located in the Community Building. She also highlights business development grants available to local business owners—resources designed to support growth, spark creativity, and keep Columbus thriving.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because building a stronger community takes vision, planning, and collaboration.

Louped In: Jennifer Brownlow

Get Louped In with the people and programs that make Columbus, Nebraska a healthy and connected community. Hosted by Matt Lindberg, Public Communications Manager, and Betsy Eckhardt, Parks and Recreation Director, this podcast highlights the voices working to strengthen and support our city.
This week, we welcome Jennifer Brownlow, Fitness Director at the Columbus Family YMCA. Jennifer shares the wide range of fitness opportunities available for all ages—from engaging programs designed to keep aging adults active and thriving, to family-friendly offerings that encourage healthy habits across generations. With her passion for wellness and community, Jennifer explains how the YMCA continues to adapt to meet the needs of Columbus residents.
Tune in and stay Louped In—because fitness and community go hand in hand.