Saying Farewell: Reflections, Memories, and the Next Chapter of Kankakee Podcast
Hello, Kankakee County and podcast friends near and far! Today’s episode is both bittersweet and celebratory, as we gather to mark a milestone in the story of the Kankakee Podcast. After four remarkable years at the mic, our founder and longtime host, Jake LaMore, steps into the guest seat to look back, share memories, and hand the torch to a new chapter.
This episode is hosted by Andrew McBurnie and Drew Raiser, who invite Jake for an honest, heartfelt, and at times hilarious conversation about the journey of building the Kankakee Podcast and what comes next.
The Community-Built Podcast
As Jake reveals, Kankakee Podcast wasn’t built in isolation. “I may have come up with the idea and the concept, but I really do feel like it was fully implemented and just kind of created out of the community, because this is not something I did alone,” Jake shares. From family and friends who brainstormed podcast names to the endless support from sponsors, listeners, guests, and local leaders, community has been at the podcast’s core.
Memorable Moments & Unforgettable Guests
The episode isn’t just a farewell—it’s a nostalgic walk through some of Jake’s all-time favorite episodes and unique behind-the-scenes stories that have made this local show more than just a podcast.
Highlights Include:
- Nick Huffman & The Looney Bin:
One of Jake’s most cherished early interviews, Nick Huffman brought raw honesty and heart, leaving a lasting impression both on the audience and the local community. After Nick’s passing, the episode became an enduring tribute—and remains one of the show’s most downloaded. - Touring Crown Holdings:
A field trip to one of Kankakee County’s oldest manufacturers resulted in eye-opening learning and a few unexpected Yeti mugs. “Anytime we got out of the studio, it just made things that much more memorable,” Jake explains. - Visits from Santa Claus & Animal Guests:
From a blind raccoon named Sprocket in Jake’s old basement studio to live reptiles in the new space, fun and surprises have been a regular staple. - Music, Donuts, and Community Stories:
From podcast episodes at Merchant Street Music Festival, with shoutouts to local bands like Katzpa Jammas, to heated debates about the omnipresence of Pearson’s Bakery treats, the podcast has captured the flavor of Kankakee—both literally and figuratively.
Lessons From Four Years Behind the Mic
Jake reflects on the differences—and similarities—between radio and podcasting, the special intimacy audio storytelling brings, and his appreciation for the “bubble” that is Kankakee:
“You get to reach people on such a very personal level without actually being in the same room as them. If you do it right…it feels like you’re right in there with them.”
Jake LaMore
His message to the community is one of gratitude:
“None of this would have been possible if it wasn’t for everyone that was involved…I truly am. And I mean that wholeheartedly. This really was a community effort.”
What’s Next for Jake—and for the Show
Jake isn’t leaving audio storytelling. He’s returning to full-time radio at Milner Media, following in the footsteps of the late, legendary Ken Zyer—an honor he calls one of the hardest and proudest choices of his life.
As for the podcast? Kankakee Podcast will continue, carried forward by Drew, Andrew, and the team at Pathfinder. While the episodes may evolve, Jake’s vision of a show built by and for the community will remain the heart of the project:
“I really want it to be the community’s podcast. It should be something they feel like they’re a part of.”
A New Chapter—With Gratitude
We close this episode celebrating the accomplishments and legacy of Jake LaMore, whose dedication, humility, and vision turned a local idea into a Kankakee institution. As the team looks forward to new voices and stories, the foundation Jake built will shape the conversations, connections, and impact for years to come.
Jake’s Parting Words:
“Thank you so much for listening to Kankakee Podcast. Follow, like, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or, you know, follow us on social media at Kankakee Podcast.”
Stay Tuned (And Thank You!)
To our listeners, sponsors, supporters, and guests—thank you. Keep listening, keep sharing stories, and keep being the community that makes Kankakee Podcast a local treasure.
Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, follow us on social media, and—if you loved Jake’s tenure—let him know! And as always, special thanks to our Patreon supporters who make every episode possible.
Until next time, this is the Kankakee Podcast—celebrating the spirit, history, and future of our hometown, one conversation at a time.
