Daviess County CEO Learns the Value of Faith, Family and Entrepreneurship at Knepp’s Amish Kountry Korner. On Wednesday, September 9, 2026, the Daviess County CEO Cohort enjoyed a unique opportunity to learn about entrepreneurship, perseverance, and the importance of strong personal values during a visit to Knepp’s Amish Kountry Korner.
Julie Knepp welcomed the students into her business and shared not only the story behind the store, but also the lessons she has learned throughout her years as an entrepreneur. Today, Knepp’s Amish Kountry Korner offers customers a variety of products and services, including a deli, bakery, bulk foods, and general store. However, the business has much deeper roots. Julie’s entrepreneurial journey began with Knepp’s Country Cafe in 1993, eventually leading to the opening of the current store on August 1, 2020.
Julie explained how businesses must be willing to recognize changing customer needs and adapt when necessary. Her own transition from a café to a larger country store is an excellent example of how paying attention to the market can create new opportunities while still staying true to the values that built the business.
Throughout the visit, Julie shared many lessons that went well beyond the basics of running a business. She spoke openly about the challenges entrepreneurs face and encouraged the students to remain thankful, even during difficult seasons. Faith, contentment, perseverance, and a willingness to keep moving forward have played an important role in her journey.
She also reminded the students that success does not come from knowing everything. Entrepreneurs must continue learning, evaluating their businesses, accepting change, and seeking advice from other business owners. Building relationships with other entrepreneurs can provide valuable encouragement, ideas, and perspective.
When discussing employees, Julie stressed the importance of being willing to listen and follow instructions. Reliable employees who understand expectations and consistently do their jobs are essential to the success of any organization. She emphasized that hiring and employee retention continue to be challenges for many businesses.
Perhaps the most meaningful part of Julie’s message was her reminder that business should never come before family. Building a successful company is important, but maintaining strong relationships with the people who matter most should remain a priority.
Julie also encouraged the students not to allow fear of failure to keep them from pursuing an opportunity. Sometimes the biggest obstacle is simply being afraid to take the first step. Her message was clear: take the chance, step outside your comfort zone, learn from mistakes, and keep moving forward.
The visit also gave the students an opportunity to see the business from behind the scenes. Julie provided a tour of the newly remodeled kitchen, allowing the cohort to see the organization, equipment, preparation areas, and work that goes into producing the food customers enjoy. It was a great opportunity for students to connect the business lessons they heard with the day-to-day operations of a working food establishment.
Of course, the visit included some firsthand sampling of Knepp’s Amish Kountry Korner, as the students enjoyed the store’s fresh-baked cinnamon rolls and beverages.
The Daviess County CEO Cohort left with much more than a lesson in how a country store operates. They experienced firsthand how faith, hard work, adaptability, relationships, family, and a willingness to take risks can shape an entrepreneurial journey.
A special thank you to Julie for opening her doors, sharing her experiences, and investing her time and knowledge in the next generation of Daviess County entrepreneurs. We truly appreciate your continued support of Daviess County CEO!