Recent Episodes

  • BONUS: Behind the Scenes of KVTA’s Elf Jr. with Paula Sutter and Brady Perzee

    Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! As the holiday season approaches, we’ve got a special treat for you. In today’s bonus episode of the Kankakee Podcast, we dive into the festive world of the Kankakee Valley Theater Association (KVTA) with their latest production, “Elf Jr.” Get ready to experience the magic of Christmas, laughter, and theater…

  • #176: Brad Stosiek and Eric Peterson: Resilience and Humor on the I’m F.I.N.E. Podcast

    Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! Today’s episode is one that strikes at the heartstrings with a touch of humor, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds formed through shared experiences. We’re diving deep into the stories of veterans, their journeys, and the remarkable local efforts to support them. From Marine Cook to Resilient Veteran Our guest, Brad…

  • Election Results, Veterans Honors, and New Beginnings – Kankakee Podcast News – 11/08/24

    This week on Kankakee Podcast News, we’re diving into the stories that matter most to our community. With the General Election results in, we break down the key takeaways, including the outcomes of the BBCHS and Bourbonnais Fire Department referendums. We also celebrate Veterans Day with special events, from Olivet Nazarene University’s hockey team honoring…

  • #175: The Art of Soap Making with Gracie Pie Apothecary’s Rachael Reynolds

    Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! We’re back with another inspiring story in the Kankakee Podcast, where we uncover the heart and soul of our local community. In this episode, we’re diving into the art and business of soap-making with a talented and passionate entrepreneur. Join us as we explore the world of Gracie Pie Apothecary,…

  • Election Special: Phil Nagel, Candidate for Illinois’ State Senate 40th District

    In this last Election Special episode of Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with Phil Nagel, a candidate for the Illinois State Senate in the 40th district. Nagel shares his perspective on various issues, including rising property taxes, government transparency, and economic growth. He suggests drawing from Texas’ business-friendly policies to attract businesses to…

  • Election Special: Justice Linda Davenport, Candidate for the Illinois Third Appellate Court

    New Episode: A Conversation with Justice Linda Davenport on the Illinois Appellate Court In this special election episode of the Kankakee Podcast, we sit down with Justice Linda Davenport, candidate for the Illinois Third Appellate Court, to discuss her journey through the judicial system, her role as an appellate judge, and her vision for serving…

  • Brush Fire, Election Updates, and School Uniforms – Kankakee Podcast News – 11/01/24

    In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, we cover important local stories, including two fatal crashes that occurred last Saturday, as well as a brush fire near Oak Springs Golf Course that saw community farmers stepping in to help. We discuss Manteno Mayor Tim Nugent’s decision not to seek reelection after 20 years and…

  • Election Special: Jackie Haas, Seeking a Third Term for Illinois’ 79th District

    As Illinois State Representative Jackie Haas seeks her third term representing the 79th district, we had the opportunity to sit down with her to discuss her vision for the region and her goals for Illinois as a whole. Jackie sheds light on pressing issues, from economic relief and tax reduction to ethics in government and…

  • #174: Re-Release: Exploring the Paranormal with Kankakee’s Ghost Hunters

    Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! As the Halloween season draws near, it’s the perfect time to immerse ourselves in tales of mystery and the unexplained. Today, I bring you a special re-release of one of our spookiest episodes yet, recorded live at the Kankakee County Museum. Join us as we once again delve into the…

  • Resignations, Acquisitions, and a Bakery’s Final Days – Kankakee Podcast News – 10/25/24

    Kankakee County Faces Big Changes in This Week’s Podcast News In the latest episode of Kankakee Podcast News, we cover several major developments shaking up Kankakee County. Andy Wheeler has resigned as County Board Chairman, and Shaw Media has acquired The Daily Journal, marking the end of an era for local journalism. Plus, we share…

  • Understanding the BBCHS Referendum: A Special Election Episode of Kankakee Podcast

    With the November 5th election fast approaching, residents of Bourbonnais and Bradley will be voting on an important issue: the BBCHS referendum. In this special episode of Kankakee Podcast, I sit down with Amy Kemp, a member of the Vote Yes for BBCHS Committee, to discuss what the referendum entails and how it could impact…

  • #173: Stories from October’s “Yarn Factory Listeners”

    In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore delves into the heartfelt stories and memories shared at the 7th session of the Yarn Factory storytelling event. Special guests Moran Beasley and Bill Yohnka, along with a lineup of talented storytellers including Sue Hodak, Samantha Rocknowski, John Fetterer, and Eric Regez, take the stage…

  • Protests, School Security, and a Veterans Appointment – Kankakee Podcast News – 10/18/24

    Kankakee Podcast News: Gun Violence Protests, School Security, and New Leadership for Veterans In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, we dive into some of the most important stories impacting the community. Dameia “KelisDivine” Petty and her family held a peaceful protest outside the Kankakee County Courthouse, urging the community to take a stand…

  • Meet Billy Morgan: Candidate for Illinois’ 79th District – Kankakee Podcast Election Special

    In this special episode of Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with Billy Morgan, Democratic candidate for Illinois State Representative in the 79th District. Morgan discusses his key priorities for the district, including fostering economic growth, improving infrastructure, and ensuring the 79th gets its fair share of state investment. A native of the area…

  • #172: Re-Release, Noble Dairy Queen’s History Revisited with Joe Rintelman

    In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore revisits the history of the Noble Dairy Queen with guest Joe Rintelman. Initially aired in December 2022, this re-release corrects earlier inaccuracies and offers a comprehensive look into an iconic local institution. — Joe Rintelman, a teacher turned family business member, shares the fascinating journey…