The Heartland Business Podcast
The Heartland Business Podcast shines a spotlight on the entrepreneurs, founders, and small business owners who are driving growth across Nebraska and the Midwest. Through relaxed, conversational episodes, we explore the journeys, challenges, lessons, and successes behind the businesses that help define our communities. More than a podcast, it's a platform for celebrating Heartland entrepreneurship and building meaningful connections among business owners throughout the region.
22 Oct 2026
From Side Hustle to Sourdough Success - Omaha Bagel Co
This week, I sit down with Hank Shields, founder of Omaha Bagel Company, to discuss his unconventional journey from Corporate America to building one of Omaha's most unique food businesses. We explore his handcrafted sourdough bagel process, why doing a few things exceptionally well beats trying to do everything, and the moment he realized his side gig had become his true calling. Hank also shares how he intentionally integrates family into the business, teaching his kids valuable lessons about work, responsibility, and entrepreneurship while creating a lifestyle that doesn't force him to choose between building a business and being present at home.
09 Sep 2026
Burn the Ships - Mike Battershell, and Jacque and Jeff Zimmerman
Host Michael Beaulieu sits down with two Nebraska business leaders who took very different paths to ownership. First, Jacque and Jeff Zimmerman share how they left a comfortable career to launch a physical therapy practice from scratch, survived a near-collapse, and ultimately merged with the therapist-owned Rock Valley Physical Therapy. Then, Mike Battershell tells the story of Bergmann Incentives — a 138-year-old Omaha business that evolved from pocket watch parts to brand solutions — and his journey from commission sales to becoming its first non-family majority owner. Both guests reflect on the risks and rewards of entrepreneurship, the Omaha business community, and the lessons they'd pass on to the next generation.
03 Aug 2026
Golden Sheaf - Nebraska's Best Kept Secret
In this episode, Michael Beaulieu sits down with serial entrepreneur Shawn Ilg to discuss the revival of Golden Sheaf Whiskey—Nebraska’s oldest whiskey brand. Once one of the largest whiskey producers in the country, Golden Sheaf holds a rich legacy that Shawn is now bringing back to life. He shares the story behind the brand’s history, the challenges and opportunities of resurrecting a historic label, and his vision for reestablishing Golden Sheaf as a modern contender in today’s spirits market. Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or interested in entrepreneurship, this conversation offers a compelling look at blending tradition with innovation.
Contact information
Contact information
Hammes Wealth Management
13815 FNB Parkway
Suite 300
Omaha, NE 68154
