Recent Episodes

  • Mass Shooting New Year’s Day and More Stories – Kankakee Podcast News – 01/03/25

    This Week on Kankakee Podcast News Start the new year informed with this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News. We cover a mass shooting on New Year’s Day in Kankakee, BBCHS’s plans to improve discipline practices, and the return of Wintersong with a stellar music lineup. You’ll also hear updates on local businesses, including new…

  • 2024 in Review: Kankakee’s Top Ten Podcast Episodes

    Tune in to discover the top 10 Kankakee Podcast episodes of 2024, featuring unforgettable local stories, inspiring guests, and special moments from our vibrant community! THE TOP TEN As we enter 2025, let’s continue sharing more great conversations and uncovering the rich tapestry of stories that make Kankakee County so special! Here’s to another year…

  • Bradley Man Charged in Crossbow Killing and More Stories – Kankakee Podcast News – 12/27/24

    Kankakee Podcast News: Local Updates and Business Changes This week on Kankakee Podcast News, we bring you the latest stories from around the county: Catch these stories and more in this week’s episode. Listen now on your preferred podcast platform! Tune In + Subscribe

  • #182: Stories From December’s Yarn Factory Listeners

    Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! Today we bring you a story-rich episode from our beloved Kankakee Podcast—an episode filled with childhood memories, personal triumphs, and a dash of exhilarating mishaps. Gather ‘round as we delve into where the magic of storytelling meets the heart of the Kankakee River! Andy Stephens: Between Shapiro and the Stage…

  • Chef Vaughn’s Kitchen Reopens and More Stories – Kankakee Podcast News – 12/20/24

    Kankakee Podcast News: Chef Vaughn, Tax Levy Updates, and More! In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, we’re serving up the latest stories from across the county! Highlights include Chef Josh Vaughn’s new riverside kitchen at On The Rox, a 3.6% drop in Kankakee’s tax levy for 2024, and Bourbonnais’ announcement of an interim…

  • #181: Michael Murphy on Helping Youth and Revitalizing Communities Through “Let’s Ketchup”

    Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! Today I’m bringing you a story that dives deep into the heart of community service, personal growth, and the enduring impact of mentorship. In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, we have the inspiring Michael Murphy, sharing his journey from rebellious teen to community advocate. From Rebellion to Redemption Michael…

  • Bradley’s $79.5M Indoor Water Park Plans and More Stories – Kankakee Podcast News – 12/13/24

    Bradley’s Big Plans: Water Park, Sports Complex, and More – Kankakee Podcast News This week on Kankakee Podcast News, we’re diving into some exciting developments in Bradley! The town is making waves with a $79.5 million indoor water park project set to open by 2027. Plus, we’ve got updates on the new Bradley Sports Complex…

  • #180: Winter Wonderland Pub Crawl and Katzpa Jammas’ New Album

    Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! Today we dive into an exciting blend of music and festivity that you won’t want to miss. Join us as we recount the lively conversations and preparations for the much-anticipated Winter Wonderland Pub Crawl. Hosted by Jake LaMore on the Kankakee Podcast, this episode features band members from Katzpa Jammas…

  • Lion Electric Layoffs Impact Herscher Schools and More Stories – Kankakee Podcast News – 12/06/24

    In this week’s episode, we’re covering the latest news impacting Kankakee County. Lion Electric’s layoffs are raising concerns for Herscher schools, while new leadership on the Kankakee County Board promises a fresh start. We also discuss safety improvements proposed for Illinois Route 1 and the progress of QuikTrip’s long-awaited development in Kankakee. On the festive…

  • #179: Youth Advisory Council Talks Mental Health, Education, and Community

    Youth Voices on Mental Health: A Kankakee Perspective Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! Today, we’re diving deep into a crucial and compelling topic that touches the lives of many in our community: youth mental health education. In this latest episode of the Kankakee Podcast, I had the privilege of talking with some of the bright…

  • Bradley Approves $6.5M Mall Purchase and More Stories – Kankakee Podcast News – Friday, November 29th, 2024

    Bradley Mall Revamp, Holiday Cheer, and More in This Week’s Kankakee Podcast News This week on Kankakee Podcast News, we dive into some exciting developments in Bradley, starting with the village’s $6.5 million purchase of Northfield Square Mall. This strategic move signals plans for an entertainment-focused redevelopment, which could bring new energy to the area.…

  • #178: Stories From November’s Yarn Factory Listeners

    Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! Today we’re diving into a tapestry of personal stories, with our storytellers bringing humor, nostalgia, and poignant memories! The Thrilling Escape on Train Tracks Our episode kicks off with Mike Leddin recounting a heart-pounding experience involving his car, a pair of stubborn train tracks, and a whole lot of luck.…

  • Netflix Series to Film in Downtown Momence and More Stories – Kankakee Podcast News – Friday, November 22nd, 2024

    This Week on Kankakee Podcast News: Safety, Schools, and Hollywood Comes to Momence In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, we cover the latest updates that matter to Kankakee County residents. The Kankakee City Council has renewed its contract with ShotSpotter, a critical tool in enhancing public safety, while a tragic local case prepares…

  • #177: A Century of Newspapers: The Small Family’s Legacy in Kankakee

    Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! Today’s episode is a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Kankakee’s journalistic history, brought to life by our special guest, Jack Klasey. As we explore the legacy of our local newspapers, we uncover stories of dedication, evolution, and community impact that span over a century. The Ever-Changing Landscape of…

  • Liberty Lodge Opens, First Presbyterian Closes – Kankakee Podcast News – 11/15/24

    This Week on Kankakee Podcast News: Honoring Legacies and Looking Ahead In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, we pay tribute to James Taylor, a pillar of our community whose work in journalism and advocacy left a lasting impact. We also take a moment to reflect on the upcoming final service at First Presbyterian…