The Heartland Business Podcast

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.

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.