In this episode of Sound of the Economy, Nick Kieffer sits down with Lori Snyder, Managing Broker with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Northern Indiana Real Estate, to talk about the current state of the real estate market in Goshen and Elkhart County.

With more than two decades of experience in residential and commercial real estate, Lori offers insight into what buyers and sellers are experiencing right now, how interest rates and inventory levels are shaping decisions, and what trends are emerging across the region. The conversation also explores the important connection between housing availability, commercial development, and overall economic momentum.

From workforce attraction and affordability challenges to investment opportunities and future market outlook, Lori shares a practical, on-the-ground perspective of what’s happening in our local economy.

If you’re a business owner, investor, homeowner, or simply interested in how real estate impacts Goshen’s future, this episode provides valuable insight into one of the most important drivers of our local economy.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or at soundofgoshen.com.

In this episode of Sound of Success, Nick Kieffer is joined by Brad Alstrom, General Manager of Maple City Market and recipient of the 2025 Maple Leaf Award from the Goshen Chamber of Commerce.

Brad shares what makes Maple City Market unique as a community-owned grocery co-op and why the cooperative business model is such a powerful driver of long-term success. The conversation explores how co-ops work, how they’re similar to credit unions, and why local ownership creates strength, resilience, and shared accountability.

Listeners will also learn how Maple City Market is connected to a broader network of cooperatives through National Co-op Grocers and the International Co-op Alliance—providing national resources while staying deeply rooted in Goshen. Brad reflects on the role collaboration plays in the co-op world, what the Maple Leaf Award means to the organization, and how community-owned businesses contribute to a thriving local economy.

This episode is a great listen for anyone interested in small business success, community ownership, and what it truly means to work together for the good of Goshen.

In this episode of Sounds Around Town, Nick Kieffer sits down with Dr. Rebecca Stoltzfus, President of Goshen College, for a wide-ranging conversation about higher education, community, and the future of Goshen.

Dr. Stoltzfus shares why earning a college degree continues to matter in today’s changing world, reflects on her recent reappointment for a third term as president, and talks about what she has come to appreciate about leading a college deeply connected to its town. She also looks ahead to the next five years and what’s on the horizon for Goshen College.

The conversation explores the impact of the Westlawn project and the new Center for Nursing and Public Health, highlighting how strong community partnerships are positioning Goshen College as a regional leader in nursing and public health education. Dr. Stoltzfus also discusses how the college is approaching artificial intelligence in higher education, the role of faith formation and storytelling at GC, and why bridging political divides remains essential work—both on campus and in the broader community.

This episode offers thoughtful insight into how education, partnership, and shared values help shape Goshen’s quality of life and future.

In this episode of Sound of Success, Nick Kieffer sits down with Gene Cruise, CEO and Head Coach of Surf Internet, to talk about leadership, growth, and the role broadband plays in building strong communities.

Gene shares the story behind Surf Internet’s evolution—from its early days connecting communities to becoming a regional leader in fiber-optic broadband across the Midwest. The conversation explores what it takes to scale a mission-driven company, why reliable connectivity is essential for businesses, education, and families, and how Surf approaches expansion with both innovation and community at the forefront.

Nick and Gene also discuss leadership philosophy, the importance of investing in infrastructure, and what communities like Goshen need to thrive in an increasingly digital economy. Gene offers insight into current trends in broadband, Surf’s vision for the future, and how connectivity continues to unlock opportunity across the region.

This episode is a great listen for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in how technology and community investment intersect to drive long-term success.

In this episode of Sounds Around Town, we’re joined by Amanda Rose, Director of First Fridays, to talk about everything happening in Downtown Goshen.

Amanda shares a look ahead at the 2026 First Fridays schedule, what people can expect throughout the year, and how these monthly events continue to bring energy, creativity, and connection to the heart of our community. We also talk about how artists, businesses, nonprofits, and volunteers can get involved, and why First Fridays plays such an important role in supporting downtown businesses and creating a welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.

If you love Downtown Goshen—or want to be part of what’s happening—this conversation is a great way to stay connected, get inspired, and learn how to plug in.

In this episode of Sound of Service, we sit down with Michel Alvarez, 2026 Board Chair of the Goshen Chamber of Commerce and Branch Manager at Centier Bank, to talk about leadership, service, and the power of getting involved in your community.

Michel shares why she said “yes” to leading the Chamber, what inspires her commitment to service, and how her professional and volunteer experiences have shaped her leadership style. We also dive into what’s ahead for the Goshen Chamber in 2026, including her vision for strengthening connections, supporting local businesses, and encouraging members to play an active role in shaping Goshen’s future.

Whether you’re a long-time Chamber member or someone looking for ways to engage more deeply in the community, this conversation offers insight, encouragement, and a reminder that meaningful change happens when people step forward to serve.

Today we’re joined by Jon Morningstar of MapleTronics, a trusted name in technology solutions. From IT services to cybersecurity, MapleTronics has been helping businesses stay connected, protected, and prepared for the future. We’ll talk with Jon about how technology is shaping the local economy, what businesses need to know, and where innovation is headed.

Today we’re celebrating a true milestone of longevity and community impact. Joining us are John and Darin Sorg of Sorg Jewelers in Goshen, as the family business marks an incredible 125 years of service. From the changing trends in jewelry to the values that have carried them through generations, we’ll hear how Sorg Jewelers continues to sparkle at the heart of our community.

Today, we’re teeing things up at Maplecrest Country Club with Golf Pro Carl Layher. From his passion for the game, to the way Maplecrest continues to connect members and guests, Carl brings insight into both the sport and the community it serves. Let’s drive into his story.

We shine a spotlight on the next generation of leaders coming right from our community. Vince sits down with educator JJ DuBois and several students from Goshen High School’s Leadership Academy, a standout program embedded within the school’s career pathway courses. Together, they reflect on the impact of the program over the past year—sharing lessons learned, leadership skills gained, and what’s ahead for these future changemakers. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about education, empowerment, and how Goshen is shaping tomorrow’s leaders today.