The Cedar Valley Podcast

In this episode of the Cedar Valley Podcast, Katy Susong sits down with Kim Bear of Community Main Street and Audrey Kittrell of Eagle View for a conversation about the partnerships, events, businesses, and people helping downtown Cedar Falls thrive. From patio season and Live to Nine to supporting small businesses and creating spaces where people want to gather, this episode gives a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep downtown moving.

The episode begins with a conversation with Alayna Akers, a freshman at UNI and young entrepreneur launching two businesses while attending school full-time. Alayna asks Kim and Audrey an important question, leading to a great conversation about resources, support, and growing a business in the Cedar Valley.

In this Coffee Talk episode of the Cedar Valley Podcast, Katy Susong and Stephanie Detweiler sit down to talk about the Count Me In Population Study, the work leading up to the reveal event, the response from the community, and why so many people across the Cedar Valley are ready to be part of what comes next.

In this episode of the Cedar Valley Podcast, Katy Susong sits down with Zach Hansen to talk about volunteering, young professionals, downtown Waterloo, and why he keeps saying yes to getting involved in the community. From Cedar Valley Young Professionals and Main Street Waterloo to golf courses and giving back, this conversation covers a little bit of everything.

The episode starts with Morgan from Main Street Waterloo sharing what’s happening downtown before passing the mic to Zach for a conversation about leadership, community, and why the Cedar Valley continues to be a place young professionals want to stay and build careers.

What does it actually take to bring a new business to the Cedar Valley?

In this Coffee Talk episode for Economic Development Week, Lisa and Stephanie sit down to talk about site selection and what it takes to bring new businesses to the Cedar Valley. From international visits to packed multi-day agendas, they share how companies explore a community and what goes into helping them feel confident choosing this region.

This conversation pulls back the curtain on the process, the partnerships, and the people involved. It’s a real look at how communities compete, collaborate, and work together to create new opportunities and bring new investment into the Cedar Valley.

In this Coffee Talk episode of the Cedar Valley Podcast, Katelyn Tungland and Caleb Brothers sit down to talk about Grow Cedar Valley Ambassadors and ribbon cuttings. From celebrating new businesses to recognizing expansions and major milestones, this conversation shares how these events bring energy, visibility, and community pride across the Cedar Valley.

In this episode of the Cedar Valley Podcast, Katy Susong sits down with Jim Miller to talk about the CourtWorks project and what it means for Waterloo and the entire Cedar Valley. From youth sports and family opportunities to downtown momentum and regional growth, Jim shares how this new facility can create lasting impact both on and off the court.

The episode begins with a question from Kennedy Crawford, a sophomore at West High and local volleyball player, who shares the perspective of young athletes already traveling for club sports. Together, the conversation explores why CourtWorks matters, the economic energy it can bring, and how projects like this help shape the future of our community.

Join us for this Coffee Talk edition of the Cedar Valley Podcast as Sandi Sommerfelt sits down with Erin Langenberg to recap her experience at Leadercast Live and share what’s coming to the Cedar Valley on June 10th.

Join us for this Coffee Talk edition of the Cedar Valley Podcast as Sandi Sommerfelt sits down with Erin Langenberg to recap her experience at Leadercast Live and share what’s coming to the Cedar Valley on June 10.

In this episode of the Cedar Valley Podcast, Katy Susong sits down with Phil Nash of Community Bank and Trust for a conversation about leadership, culture, and what it really looks like to invest in a community. From supporting local events to building a workplace where employees are encouraged to give back, Phil shares how their team stays connected and engaged across the Cedar Valley.

The episode begins with a question from Sam at the United Way, offering a glimpse into the needs across our community and the impact of consistent support. That conversation carries through as Katy and Phil talk about why giving back matters, how culture drives involvement, and the role businesses play in strengthening the Cedar Valley.

What is the Black Hawk County Gaming Association, and how does it impact the Cedar Valley?

In this episode, Emily Hanson shares how funding supports local nonprofits, community projects, and initiatives that shape everyday life across the region. We start with a question from Lauren Finke of the Volunteer Center of Cedar Valley, then dive into how decisions are made, what stands out, and what excites her about what’s ahead.