In this episode of Building Hancock: Stories of Growth and Community, co-host Shawn P Neal sits down with Steve Long, President and CEO of Hancock Health, to explore how one organization’s commitment to kindness, proactive healthcare, and community connection is reshaping the future of Hancock County. From the award-winning Wellbeing at Work program to an innovative Behavioral Health Mobile Response Team, Steve shares how Hancock Health is turning compassion into measurable community outcomes—making Hancock County one of the healthiest in Indiana.

Key Takeaways:

• Kindness is a strategy: Embedding compassion into operations and culture can drive measurable health and business outcomes.\
• Prevention is power: Proactive healthcare models—like direct primary care and “exercise as medicine”—save costs and lives.
• Community collaboration heals: Hancock County’s success shows what’s possible when healthcare, education, business, and faith work together.

Podcast Information:
Building Hancock: Stories of Growth and Community highlights the people, projects, and partnerships shaping the future of Hancock County, Indiana.

Hosted by Dave Meeker and produced in collaboration with Bringing Tech to You, #NewPalOpen4Biz, AdvoCast, and our title sponsor, Hancock Health.

Hashtags
#BuildingHancock #CommunityHealth #HancockHealth #Leadership #KindnessInAction #WellbeingAtWork #HealthcareInnovation #EmployeeWellbeing #MentalHealthAwareness #IndianaStrong

In this episode of Building Hancock: Stories of Growth and Community, hosts Dave Meeker and Shawn P Neal sit down with Hancock County ceramic artist Jennifer Meeker, whose handcrafted pottery captures the textures, shapes, and spirit of nature. From her roots in New Palestine to her thriving studio in Garfield Park, Jennifer has built a career that blends artistry, sustainability, and community connection. Jennifer shares her journey with clay—from her first coil pots in elementary school to discovering the potter’s wheel at Herron School of Art and Design. She talks about the inspiration she draws from nature, her love for art fairs, and her private pottery experiences that invite people to create and celebrate special moments. Listeners will also hear how her work brings joy to everyday life, whether through a morning coffee mug or a personalized piece of art. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How Jennifer Meeker blends her lifestyle and values with her ceramics.
• Why art fairs are more than sales—they’re opportunities for connection.
• The story behind her private pottery experiences and what participants can expect.
• How her work inspires joy, appreciation for art, and connection to nature.
• Jennifer’s vision for mentoring young artists and expanding her reach in the years ahead.

Resources & Links:

• Visit Jennifer’s website: JenniferMeekerArt.com
• Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @JenniferMeekerArt
• Connect on Facebook: Jennifer Meeker Art

About the Podcast:
Building Hancock: Stories of Growth and Community shines a light on the people, places, and projects shaping the future of Hancock County, Indiana. Hosted by Dave Meeker with co-host Shawn P Neal, the show is made possible by our partners Bringing Tech to You, New Pal Open for Biz, AdvoCast, and our title sponsor Hancock Health.

Join host Dave Meeker and co-host Shawn P Neal as they dive into the heart of the New Pal Summerfest 2025. This episode features engaging conversations with local voices like David Stillinger, Elvira Davis, Mike Fowler, Scott Wooldridge, Becca Biedler, State Representative Ethan Lawson, and Tina Frey. Discover what makes this community celebration so special and hear firsthand stories from the people shaping Hancock County, Indiana.

Key Highlights:
David Stillinger shares insights on community values and the growth of his family-owned business. Tina Frey discusses the importance of water conditioning services and community loyalty. Elvira Davis talks about LifeWise Academy's role in character building through biblical education. Scott Woolridge reflects on his dual roles as an attorney and county councilman. Becca Beidler emphasizes the passion behind IDFIT Programs and making fitness accessible. State Representative Ethan Lawson shares his experiences and the importance of community engagement. Mike Fowler highlights the contributions of the American Legion and the local fire department.

Hashtags:
#NewPalSummerfest #Community #HancockCounty #LocalVoices #ShawnPNeal #AdvoCast #NewPalOpen4Biz #BringingTech2You

If you're a business owner in the New Palestine or Hancock County area, join the movement to support local commerce by reaching out through the our Facebook Messenger: https://www.facebook.com/newpalopen4biz

Produced min partnership with AdvoCast

Join hosts Dave Meeker and Shawn P Neal as they dive into the rich history of May Roofing with lifelong New Palestine resident, Wayne May. Discover the satisfaction of hands-on craftsmanship and the importance of community spirit in Hancock County, Indiana. From childhood memories of hauling shingles to solving the toughest leaks, Wayne shares how a family business stays small by design while making a big impact on Main Street.

Building Hancock is showcasing the people, businesses, and organizations driving the vision and future of Hancock County, Indiana. Brought to you by Hancock Health and #NewPalOpen4Biz

Produced by AdvoCast

Highlights:

• Wayne May's journey from a 10-year-old helper to a community staple.
• The evolution of New Palestine and its growing business landscape.
• The importance of keeping commerce local and supporting community events.
• Insights into the future of May Roofing and its commitment to quality.

Hashtags:
#CommunitySpirit #FamilyBusiness #HancockCounty #MayRoofing

If you're a business owner in the New Palestine or Hancock County area, join the movement to support local commerce by reaching out through the our Facebook Messenger: https://www.facebook.com/newpalopen4biz

In this episode of Building Hancock, host Dave Meeker and co-host Shawn P Neal discuss the intersection of technology, the role of #NewPalOpen4Biz in supporting local businesses, and the significance of community relationships in overcoming challenges. The conversation highlights the proactive measures needed to ensure safety and growth within the community, as well as the vision for a vibrant future in New Palestine.

Building Hancock is showcasing the people, businesses, and organizations driving the vision and future of Hancock County, Indiana. Brought to you by Hancock Health and #NewPalOpen4Biz

Produced by AdvoCast

Are you a Hancock County Business?  Get involved with #NewPalOpen4Biz by sending a message to us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newpalopen4biz

Visit BringingTech2You at https://bringingtech2you.com

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Building Hancock Podcast
01:05 Meet Dave Meeker: Cybersecurity and Community Advocate
02:42 Understanding Cybersecurity: Importance of Passwords
05:56 Community Engagement: New Pal Open for Biz
10:01 Building Relationships: The Bridge Project
15:07 Vision for New Pal Open for Biz
18:40 Conclusion and Community Call to Action

#NewPalOpen4Biz #ShawnPNeal #BringingTech2You

In this kickoff episode of Building Hancock: Stories of Growth and Community, hosts Dave Meeker and Co-Host Shawn P Neal sit down with Julie Lucas, President of New Palestine Main Street. Julie shares her journey from a career in insurance to becoming a passionate leader in her hometown’s revitalization efforts. She discusses the mission of New Pal Main Street, the impact of volunteer-driven events like SummerFest, and future dreams for an amphitheater and historic preservation initiatives. Listeners will hear how a strong community spirit, generous sponsors, and committed volunteers are transforming New Palestine into an even more vibrant and welcoming place. This episode highlights the power of local engagement in building a town’s future while honoring its history.

Building Hancock is showcasing the people, businesses, and organizations driving the vision and future of Hancock County, Indiana. Brought to you by Hancock Health and #NewPalOpen4Biz

Produced by AdvoCast

Links:

• Click to Visit the New Palestine Main Street website
• Message us on Facebook to get your business involved in #NewPalOpen4Biz 
• Interested in exploring how podcasting can build your business brand? Visit the AdvoCast website here.

Key Takeaways:

• The Heart Behind New Palestine Main Street:
  Julie Lucas's lifelong dedication to building community through volunteerism shines through her leadership role, keeping New Pal’s small-town spirit alive and thriving.
• Volunteer-Driven Success:
  New Pal Main Street operates with a 100% volunteer board, organizing beloved events like SummerFest, Derby on Depot, Harvest Fest, and Winterfest, which strengthen community ties and celebrate local culture.
• Big Dreams for the Future:
  Julie shares the organization's exciting vision, including the hope of building a community amphitheater, updating historic facades, and creating more opportunities for local arts and performances.
• How the Community Can Get Involved:
  From sponsorships to event volunteering to website and social media support, there are many ways residents and businesses can support the mission of New Pal Main Street and help shape the future of the town.
• A Deep-Rooted Connection to Hancock County:
  Julie’s lifelong residence in New Palestine and her commitment to preserving its warmth, history, and family-oriented values are central to the continued growth and revitalization efforts.

#NewPalOpen4Biz #BuildingHancock #NewPalestineIN #NewPalMainStreet #HancockCountyIndiana #SupportLocalIN #HancockCountyPride #NewPalCommunity