Backroads and Byways With Fred Uhe

Host Fred sits down with longtime friend Chuck Johnston, executive director of the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame, for a "payback" conversation after Fred's own turn as a guest on Chuck's podcast.

Chuck talks about growing up as a military brat, from Germany to South Carolina to Bellevue, Nebraska. He covers his short-lived college radio career and his years as a teacher and coach. He also gives a tour of the Hall of Fame's 7,500 square feet of exhibits in Lincoln. Highlights include a 115-year-old state championship banner, interactive basketball and baseball games, a Friday Night Lights photo wall, and a kiosk in the works that lets visitors "make the call" like an official.

Fred Uhe sits down with Amy Allgood, Director of Nebraska City Tourism and Commerce, to talk about how a hometown-bound accountant ended up running one of the region's busiest small-town tourism operations. Amy walks through the growth of the Applejack Festival — now split across two weekends and drawing over 100,000 visitors to a town of 7,500 — and shares the story behind Nebraska City's Farm to Fork dinner, a locally sourced feast staged right on Central Avenue. Along the way, they cover the logistics of free festival buses, the balancing act between chamber and tourism work, and why Amy sees hospitality as "management by crisis" — plus a few Highland cows, a floating bridge, and a cameo from Cars, the movie. It's a warm, behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep a small Nebraska town welcoming visitors 365 days a year.

Bellevue University turns 60 this year. President Dr. Mary Hawkins joins host Fred Uhe to take a look back at the first 60 and what is in store for the future. BU is a National and international leader in online education, they discuss the development of these programs, and their corporate and military partnerships. 

International students are welcomed at Bellevue and it’s interesting how the community embraces them and the students embrace the American culture. 

No discussion on Bellevue would be complete without talking Bruin athletics. Many of their programs are nationally ranked and they are adding men’s and women’s wrestling for the 26-27 school year. Higher education is facing many challenges, so tune in and learn how Bellevue is preparing to meet those. 

Jenn Gjerde, Executive Director of Nebraska Tourism (Visit Nebraska), joins host Fred Uhe to answer that proverbial question, “What Is There To Do In Nebraska?”. Tune in as they answer that question while discussing the many attractions and events that provide travelers and residents plenty to do. They discuss the Nebraska Passport Program, both the summer and Holiday versions, National Travel & Tourism Week, Nebraska Star Parties and so much more. Plenty of great ideas and resources are available to make your Nebraska vacation or staycation a memorable experience.

Natalie Moningi and Shannon Todd from the ALS Association join Fred this month to discuss this affliction and the upcoming Walk to Defeat ALS Nebraska. Every 90 minutes someone is diagnosed with ALS or passes away from this dreaded disease. They discuss the history of "Lou Gehrig's" disease, the Association's work with clinical trials, how you can support people locally and how the support of MLB in fighting this disease impacts the battle. Tune in and learn what you can do to make a difference in this battle. 

The ever dynamic Jasmyn Goodwin, Executive Director of Visit Omaha, joins host Fred Uhe to discuss everything going on in the world of tourism in the metro, including the impact of visitors on our economy, events and attractions. No discussion on Omaha tourism is complete without mentioning the Henry Doorly Zoo, the Joslyn and Berkshire Hathaway. We touch on the future and how various construction projects will impact the face of Omaha going forward. Tune in! 

Join host Fred Uhe, and Brad Mellema, Executive Director of Grand Island Tourism as they focus on all the activities, events and attractions that has made this Nebraska’s favorite island. From the world-famous Sandhills crane migration to the historic Stuhr Museum to the Nebraska State Fair, GI has a little of something for everyone in your group. For you sports fans, activities are as varied as Fonner Park Thoroughbred Racing, to the Heartland Hoops, to Golden Gloves boxing, to outstanding local fishing. Numerous festivals provide enjoyment throughout the year, these include the Global Roots Festival, Husker Harvest Days, Kite Festival, the Craft Brew & Sausage Festival, Bockfest and Oktoberfest (yes it’s in September). You’ll run out of time before you run out of things to do!

Martie Cordaro, President of your Omaha Storm Chasers, joins host Fred Uhe to discuss the upcoming 2026 season and minor league baseball in general. Players are in camp and the March 31 home opener will be here before you know it. We take a look back at Martie’s career and a look forward to new promotions and a new manager, Patrick Osborn. Cosmic Baseball pays a visit to Werner Park for two games this year for an interesting twist on America’s pastime. Join us as we talk about memories, favorite players and a little Union Omaha soccer as well.

Lindsay Toussant, Executive Director of the Omaha Sports Commission, joins host Fred Uhe for a behind the scenes look at the role of the Commission in preparing bids, staffing events and more. A look back at events such as the Olympic Swim and Curling Trials plus upcoming events including the IronMan coming this summer. So many great sports events happening in the metro and many more to come. We can’t forget the OSCAS (Omaha Sports Commission Awards Show) where the latest inductees into the Omaha Sports Hall of Fame are announced and others are honored for their contributions to the local athletic scene. Be one of the first to know the Hall of Famers in this podcast.

Brian Barks, President and CEO of the Foodbank for the Heartland, joins host Fred Uhe to discuss the challenges in serving 93 counties during these troubling times. Learn the difference between food banks and food pantries and how changes at the USDA impact the delivery systems attempting to address the growing needs across the Midwest. Hunger is not only a Holiday issue but a year-round occurrence that Brian and his team work hard to serve those needing assistance.

Our show is sponsored by Jerzes Sports Bar in Papillion!