A new initiative in Wayne County is working to connect high school students with local employers through internships and work-based learning opportunities to build a stronger workforce. The Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce recently launched the Student Future Success initiative, a program designed to streamline how students find and apply for hands-on career experiences.

Jon York sits down with Ella Chew in this episode. From being a young club member to working his way up to CEO, he’s dedicated decades to helping kids realize their full potential. We’ll explore the evolution of the Boys and Girls Clubs, the impact on generations of families, and how intentional programs can shape the leaders of tomorrow.

The Union County Public Library reopened to the community in January 2026 after a major renovation aimed at transforming the space into more than just a library. In the process of renovation, staff discovered historical documentation from the library’s 1915 cornerstone ceremony. Jolliff recalled, “In one of the speeches it said, ‘This library is a community center. It should house books for reading, for fun, for pleasure, for bettering one’s life, but it should also house education, recreation and entertainment.’ I mean, it was just so clear.”

West Main Family Dental has a new dentist leading the practice. Dr. Allison Mopps bought the practice in December 2025. Previously owned by Dr. Jill Burns, she decided it was time to take a step back after more than 20 years of serving the community.

In this episode, we sit down with Richmond photographer Susanna Tanner, owner of Susanna Tanner Photography, to talk about how her work goes far beyond the camera. With more than 20 years behind the lens, Tanner shares how photography has evolved for her, creating a transformative, deeply personal experience for her clients. This conversation explores the connection between art and authenticity, and how creating space for people to be seen can turn a photograph into something soulful. Image credit to Mark Brim.

The Wayne County Land Trust is purchasing properties as part of a long-term effort to revitalize historic downtown spaces, with the goal of keeping these buildings active for decades to come. In this interview, I’m joined by Rebecca Gilliam, Executive Director of the Wayne County Foundation, to talk about how the Wayne County Land Trust came together, why it was needed, and what’s next as more than 20 properties move into the design and development phase.

Richmond’s airport is about to get a major upgrade. Airport Manager Rodney Mayse says the current terminal is over 80 years old and isn’t reflecting the growth of the community. The new terminal will improve accessibility, expand passenger areas, and offer after-hours access. This could make Richmond more attractive for business and investment. Rodney Mayse sits down to talk about the funding, timeline, and impact.

Wayne County could be rolling the dice on a major economic shift. A state study ranks the county third in Indiana for a potential new casino. This could open the door to hundreds of millions in investment, new tourism, and tax revenue for the region. Supporters see opportunity. Others have concerns. And soon, voters may have the final say. In this episode, we sit down with Wayne County Chamber CEO Melissa Vance as she discusses what a casino could mean for economic development and local businesses

Amid campaign season, United Way of Whitewater Valley leaders join Ella Chew to explore how the organization serves as a funder, thought leader, and convener. Together they discuss how United Way unites donors to meet community needs, with a deep dive into mental health initiatives, funding resources, and goals going into 2026.

The first-of-its-kind recycling hub in Wayne County is aiming to educate residents on how to reduce their carbon footprint, especially during the holiday season. Penny Ausmus sits down with Ella Chew to discuss the opening of the East Central Indiana RE Hub in September 2024. The nonprofit offers recycling options beyond the city’s own program and is quickly becoming a resource for items that typically end up in the trash.

The city of Richmond is in the process of updating its Comprehensive Plan, a long-term guide for community growth, development, and investment. The plan, Richmond Rising, was created by the city in 2019 after a yearlong study. Now, city leaders are refreshing the plan to reflect on how the community has changed over the last six years.