KZ Community Beat: Recent Episodes
MWC
This week on Community Beat, Ross sits down with Gregory Wilson, the President of the Peoria Public Schools Board of Education, for a conversation rooted in leadership, transparency, and unity.
From his beginnings as the youngest African American elected to the board to now leading it, Gregory opens up about what drives him, his passion for equity, his commitment to students, and his vision for a stronger, more connected Peoria.
Together, they talk about the real challenges shaping local education, from academic performance and absenteeism to trust, safety, and community involvement, and how change starts with communication, not confrontation.
The conversation also takes a powerful turn toward hip-hop’s influence on youth development, reflecting on how artists like KRS-One, De La Soul, and Chance the Rapper uplift and inspire, while exploring the flip side, how drill rap’s pain and realism mirror what young people are living through today.
This isn’t a debate. It’s a dialogue, a reminder that when schools, parents, and culture work together, the future starts to sound a whole lot better.
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This episode, Jinette and Emily stop by to talk about their organization GBC Autism Services. This conversation centers around what ABA therapy is, some common misconceptions regarding Autism and why community is important and they can help you and your loved ones!
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In this episode, we sit down with Melissa and Jim, co leader's of Peoria's 50501, and organizers of The No King's Protest happening here in Peoria on October 18th! We touch topics regarding the current climate politically, immigration and the fear community members are experiences and what the price of remaining silent will cost you...
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This episode is about representation, resistance, and real talk.
Ross sits down with Christell Frausto and Andy Fremac, the host of El Morning Chou — Peoria’s first Latino-programmed radio show — for a bilingual, boundary-breaking conversation about the rise of the Latino community in Central Illinois, and the weight of being seen and heard.
Together, they explore:
- The power of Latino voices in local media
- The growing Latino population in Peoria
- The heartbreaking cancellation of El Fiesta en el Rio due to fear from ICE activity
- And why the microphone, in the right hands, can change everything
This episode was recorded in both Spanish and English to reflect the culture, the emotion, and the truth of this community — and to break the barrier of “us vs. them” across radio brands, audiences, and assumptions.
It’s not just a podcast.
It’s a moment.
It’s history.
And it’s still being written.
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Ross sits down with Daryl Carlson of the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter to talk about the disease that affects millions — including Ross’ own family. His grandmother passed in 2009 after battling Alzheimer’s, dementia, and cancer. So this isn’t just a spotlight — it’s a tribute.
Together, they dive into the emotional toll this disease takes on families, how to recognize early warning signs, and the resources available right here in Peoria. They also talk about the upcoming Walk to End Alzheimer’s, where Ross will serve as emcee.
This episode is for the generation watching their parents — or grandparents — slowly change, unsure of what to do, who to ask, or how to even talk about it.
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This episode isn’t about basketball — it’s about legacy, identity, purpose, and power.
Ross sits down with filmmaker Creston Coleman to discuss Orange and Black: Beneath the Numbers, a new documentary that dives into the soul of Peoria’s Manual High School basketball dynasty. But this isn’t just nostalgia — it’s a look at what it meant to be young, Black, and full of promise in a city that’s changed around you.
Creston speaks with raw honesty about Coach Wayne McClain, a towering mentor who shaped generations of boys into men, and about how sports became one of the only safe spaces for young men to express emotion and find direction.
And one message rings loud:
“Community isn’t a word — it’s an action.”
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In this episode of KZ Community Beat, Ross Martinez sits down with Marilyn Woods to talk about a powerful first for Peoria: a free girls flag football clinic sponsored by the Chicago Bears. Marilyn breaks down how the clinic came to life, what it means for local girls in grades 5–12, and how this event is about more than just football—it’s about creating a safe, exciting space for young women to play, learn, and thrive. From community volunteers to Bears swag and beyond, this is one conversation that shines a spotlight on opportunity, inclusion, and a growing movement in youth sports.
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In this powerful episode of KZ Community Beat, Ross catches up with a returning voice and friend of the pod, Brett Brooks — now two years stronger. Together, they dive into the significance of Juneteenth, the meaning behind the Miss Juneteenth Pageant, and the reality of being minority in a city still learning to face its reflection.
They unpack the beautiful chaos of Peoria’s legacy, the echoes of racism locally, and the internal struggles minorities face even within media spaces. This one gets honest — talking about systemic silence, microaggressions, local pride, and the future goal of launching a scholarship rooted in community empowerment.
It’s not performative. It’s not corporate. It’s the kind of conversation that might make some uncomfortable… and that’s exactly the point.
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In this powerful episode of KZ Community Beat, Ross Martinez sits down with NFL offensive lineman Marques Cox, a proud son of Peoria who's now suiting up for the Denver Broncos. Marques opens up about his roots, the grind behind the glory, and what it means to carry the hopes of a community on his shoulders. From the fields of Peoria to the bright lights of the league, this is more than a football story — it's a blueprint for any young dreamer wondering if they’ve got what it takes.
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In this episode of KZ Community Beat, Ross sits down with Brent Oest, Development Director of Crittenton Centers, to talk about how the nonprofit has been changing lives in Peoria for over 125 years. From crisis nurseries to early childhood education, Brent shares the heart, hustle, and hope behind the mission — and how you can help make a difference today.
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In April, #KZCares is spotlighting the Center for Prevention of Abuse to raise awareness and support for survivors in our community. If you or someone you know needs help, call their confidential hotline at 1-800-559-SAFE (7233)
In this episode Ross sits and talks with the CEO Carol Merna as we share a sensitive but much need discussion of the services The Center provides and early warnings signs of abuse of any kind,
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AEW’s Kyle Fletcher joins The KZ Community Beat for a raw and revealing conversation! Kyle opens up about overcoming self-doubt, balancing life as a cat dad, and his journey from PWA to AEW. Plus, he shares what it meant to share the ring with his childhood hero, Jeff Hardy, and names the next AEW star to watch. Don’t miss this candid and inspiring interview!
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In this episode of the KZ Community Beat, we sit down with Estrella Diaz, a Peoria native with a passion for community and connection. Estrella opens up about her personal journey—sharing how she’s navigated depression and anxiety, found resilience, and embraced her love for music, especially through karaoke. We dive into what drives her to stay engaged with her city and how she balances her personal life with her commitment to making a difference. This conversation goes beyond titles and politics, offering a real look at the person behind the passion. You won’t want to miss this honest and inspiring dialogue!"
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We have launched a new program called KZ Cares. Each month we will spotlight a local nonprofit and shed light on their amazing work they do for our community!
This month, we welcome Mark Linder Walk for the Mind!! Listen in as we learn how a local Peorian turned a traumatic moment into an opportunity to build a community for others who may find themselves in similar situations.
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On this episode we sit and talk with The Mayor of Peoria, Rita Ali! We take a look at the individual who moved to Peoria at the age of 6 and began her journey of community service at 14 and never looked back. In our conversation we touch on her time in office, her accomplishments, future plans and her favorite place to grab food in town… That and more on another ep of The KZ Community Beat.
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Welcome to ep 62! This week we sat and spoke with Chuck Brown, the recipient of the Illinois Grocery Initiative Grant! Listen in as we talk about the SouthSide being a ‘Food Desert’, Chuck's journey through depression and his passion to rejuvenate the South Side... This is a story of persistence and faith!
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This week we sat and talked with the co-founder and Executive Director of Art Inc here in Peoria! Welcome Nikki Romain a story of an artistic soul on a journey of acceptance and passion. Her journey is raw, beautiful and a testament to “taking a leap of faith”
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Welcome to episode 60!! This week we sat down with Amber Bowcott! Amber has worked with the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter since 2013! Listen in as we hear Amber talk about this year's Alzheimer’s Walk in Peoria, the Alzheimer’s Association and Ross’ personal experience with a family member who was diagnosed with Alzheimer and Dementia. For more information or assistance visit alz.org
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This week, we welcome CEO and President of The Neighborhood House Julie Bonar!! For 128 years and counting The Neighborhood House has supported our community, listen in to hear all the ways they give back and Julie invites us to their BIG HOUSE PARTY!!
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This week we welcome Comedian Ali Siddiq to the pod!! Ali will be bringing his “I’ve Got A Story To Tell” comedy tour to Peoria on September 14th! Get your tickets at ticketmaster.com! Listen in as we get a deeper understanding of an authentic storyteller who prides himself on the journey he has taken! We touch on the difference between a “joke teller” and a “storyteller”, the moment in life that he decided to go independent and the small nuances he has learned about being an entertainer in front of a full crowd! You will want to hear his gold nugget at the end of this episode! A big thank you to Ali for giving us a solid hour of a wisdom filled conversation!
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Welcome back for episode 57! This week we meet and hear the passionate story of The Tri County Urban League who has assisted our community since 1965!! Listen in as we learn how the Tri County Urban League has grown over the years, how participants have transformed into program leads, how they are adding a new candy shop and an initiative to reach the Latino community here in Peoria. Welcome, Felisa Jordan Durr, Virgil Marshall and Tyrone Brown!!! Make sure to get your tickets for their 23rd Annual Black and White Gala this Saturday June 1st at the Peoria Civic Center!
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Welcome to another ep of the KZ Community Beat, episode 56.. We’re calling it dos gorditos and 1 microphone! This week we met Ruben Ramirez! Ruben can be defined by one word, humility. He has been on the grind on the comedy circuit. From homeless to headliner and never forgetting to reach back and extend the help others! Ruben’s story shows us that when we want a dream, we chase it, we work for it and when you have it, share the wisdom. Ruben will be at the Jukebox Comedy Club Friday and Saturday!
Follow Ruben on TikTok/ IG at __rubenramirez
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Welcome to year 2 of Peoria Fashion Week!! We catch up with good friends of the pod, Chanel and Ezra as we hear about the growth as Fashion Week has evolved to multiple days in Peoria and their reach has extended to HOLLYWOOD! Tap in and hear how "if it plays in Peoria" is known across the nation!
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This week we welcome Gayle Young, the Executive Director of Susan G Komen Central Illinois Memorial and Dr. Fran Armmer representing Circle of Promise also retired Chairperson of the Department of Nursing at Bradley University and Cancer survivor! Listen in as we learn more about breast cancer, FAQs, treatment and where to find a community for support!
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This week we help bring awareness to Multiple Sclerosis! As we honor Multiple Sclerosis Awareness week, we welcome in great friend to the pod Brian Gorsich and new friend Savannah Simpson, who is new to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Central Illinois Community Council! This episode we learn first hand from Savannah’s recent journey of diagnose, life changes, acceptance and how she and her husband have navigated this new challenge. We also talk about the upcoming #WalkMS2024 event and how it has evolved! To get more information visit walkMS.org !!
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This episode we hear about the groundbreaking new cancer treatment services and Institute opening at OSF Healthcare here in Peoria, IL! We welcome Tom Cox - VP of OSF Oncology Services and Dr James McGee - A Radiation Oncologist at OSF/ and Founding Director of OSF Cancer Institute!
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This ep we meet a proud Peorian born and raised in the Taft! From the basketball courts to traveling all over the USA. Charles White has cultivated a story that he wishes you will learn to pass the blessing forward. Charles is the Director of The Head Start Program at the Peoria Citizens Committee for Economic Opportunity (known as The PCCEO! Listen in as we learn about the PCCEO, Charles and never forget, there are blessings in the redirection! A Central Lion, A Bradley Brave and Peoria Proud, I introduce you to Charles White!
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Welcome to episode 50!! This week, we welcome Chris Setti, the CEO of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council! For 20 plus years this transplant has transformed into a Proud Peorian. Listen in as we touch topics of how Peoria bounced back after the lock down; the 4 day weekend; the changing climate economically and how we must adapt. Amazing conversation with a proud member of our community who has had a major impact on Peoria out of love!
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This week we meet Adrienne Caudle, a Therapeutic Foster Care Resource Worker at Lutheran Social Services. We talk about the difference between foster care and Therapeutic Foster Care. Also how this program is new to Peoria, how it has impacted other communities across the world and her hope to make a difference for our youth as they grow!
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This week we meet Christine Kahl (President and CEO of Phoenix CDS) and Jolene Whisler ( Resource Development Manager). We talk, “Gimme Shelter 2024” an event to help raise funds for our community members who are experiencing homelessness. In this episode you will learn more about the underlying issues with those in a time of crisis; how preconceived notions have changed through experience and how we as a community have sadly added to the trauma of those at their lowest. Phoenix CDS prides itself on being a licensed accredited Behavioral Health Provider!
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This episode we meet Everley Davis! A born and raised Peorian through and through. This year she is the guest speaker for the 2024 Martin Luther King Freedom Vehicle Parade & Commemorative Service, an event she has attended since her youth with her family!
…she is also the Assistant Curator and Community Engagement Coordinator of the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Everley has accomplished much in her life, however, her journey of self discovery is just beginning. Listen in as we touch topics of culture, racism, the journey of self acceptance and the drive to become more!
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This week, from the classroom at Manual High School, we meet Ms Adrienne Tinsley! She has a passion for teaching and giving her students the safe space to explore their creativity with ample amount of faith to try, fail and grow! Ms Tinsley was the recipient of the “One Class At A Time” Grant! This ep we get to know Adrienne and all of her “nerdy” passions!
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https://x.osfhealthcare.org/foundation/get-involved/event-forms/choi-toy-drive
This episode we meet a man who for 27 years has made it his mission to bring joy and gifts to our children who unfortunately have to spend the holidays in a hospital. Santa Bill has seen his cause grow from a simple request to a full yearly operation! A tragic moment in his life and his love for the Bears took his life in a direction he never thought of!
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Some may know him as Tightest Whitest, others in the community know him as Brian Yarbrough. Music to movies and community outreach, he’s got his hands all over Peoria! His story has many twists and accomplishments. From creating the script for ‘Space Jam 2’, a friendship with Kobe, battle rap champ and soo much more. He is also working on something BIG with the NBA for Peoria! From humble beginnings in Kingspark you will be surprised what he says is his biggest accomplishment!
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This week we meet Jon Davis and Keith McDaniel! Jon is a retired Peorian Firefighter and Keith McDaniel a retired Peorian Police Officer. After many years of service to our community and friendship little did they know their life would change due to their collective love for House Music. Now they work in service with their new venture, the Peoria House Music Peace Project! On this episode, we hear the passion for music, service and an added bonus of 3 Chicago transplants who now call Peoria home.
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This ep we meet EDUARDO AND BEVERLY CABALLERO! From Harlem to Peoria, they have brought our community their passion for Salsa and dancing! Once a month at the Contemporary Art Center of Peoria, you can come out to dance Salsa, bachata, cumbia and sooo much more, and if you don’t know the steps, they have a free hour long dance lesson for the beginners and those who got a little dust on their dancing shoes!
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This episode we talk to the minds behind "Beat The Funk Out of Multiple Sclerosis" ! Meet Jarett Newnam - Council member of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society central Illinois Community council and friend of the pod returns Brian Gorsich the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Chair of the central Illinois Community council and a patient of Multiple Sclerosis
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This episode we welcome back home Glenn Bowie! Originally born and raised in Peoria. From Taft Homes to the Heights and LA. Glenn’s journey has been filled with “serendipity”! From his mentorship with Ray Becker, to shadow boxing with Muhammed Ali, Glenn has lived and seen plenty, but his heart has always been here in Peoria! Back this weekend to talk about his new book, "THE ART OF SPEAKING INTO EXISTENCE"
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This ep Willie Williams returns a year later to announce the launching of H.O.O.P.S (Honorable, Oneness, Opportunity, Patriarch, Selfless) INC! Willie has collected a wide range of community members aiming to instill hope, inspiration, and leadership skills into our next generation of men!
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This ep we meet Jalen Jenkins! Jalen was born and raised in Peoria, IL and throughout his 23 years, he’s grown into a community mentor for our youth! His 5 years of service at Proctor Recreation Center has enabled and encouraged Jalen to find his path in this life. He now has created a 6 week class to help empower the next generation of youth. “Think like a man” is a program to help young men find their confidence, their voice and provide them a safe space to navigate their emotions!
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Have you ever felt challenged with finding your “voice or personality? What about navigating being a people pleaser? Or feeling embarrassed to answer your calling in life? All that and more were and still are the challenges and trials Greg Batton faces on his journey! Those who listen weekly will recognize him as the co-host of the WMBD morning show (Greg & Dan), and some have nicknamed him the "unofficial mayor" of Peoria!
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This episode we meet Yvonne Greer Batton! Yvonne by all means is a musical soul with a service driven heart! From Detroit to Peoria, Yvonne walks this earth with a passion to accomplish and music has helped her navigate the trials of life! “If you must, you can”
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A story of dedication, humility and bouncing back! This episode we meet Marquise Henderson from Top 4D Central Illinois' Top 40 Party Band! From Florida, to recording studios with Lil Kim and Rick Ross to now Peoria, Marquise’s story teaches you that there are blessings in redirections and to not fight acceptance.
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This week we welcome back Becky Rossam the CEO of PCAV to talk about the news of the organization's potential closing. We discuss the reality of living in "Survivor mode" and how much of an impact PCAV has had on the 500 plus families they have provided aid and comfort to in the past year.
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This episode we meet the Chief of Peoria Police, Eric Echevarria! Eric prides himself on his authenticity, his passion to be open minded and his commitment to Peoria. Eric speaks on the changes happening in the department, including fancy new autonomous robots, a partnership with OSF and he also opens up about the reality of being a person of color and being a police officer! Great episode, enjoy…
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Meet Jenny Winne! She is a month into her new gig, being The Executive Director of The East Bluff Community Center!! For 8 years the center has developed into a beacon of safety, and community solidifying itself as a home away from home. Jenny has seen her fair share of trials and tribulations, however, she still maintains her vibrancy! An individual that pushes to vibrate higher and spread community!
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Meet Hannah Daly the Program Director and Narria Tanguay the Youth Enrollment Specialist of Big Brother Big Sister! We talk about their 30 for 30 campaign, building a connection with littles and the importance of being a role model! If you would like to get involved and become a BIG, let us know!!
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This ep, we talk to Chanel Murry the Supervisor of community connections at Peoria Park Districts and Scott Howard the Secretary of the Afro Fire fighters Association of Peoria! We talk about the “Fill the Fire Truck Campagne”, but more importantly we learn about Scott Howard. A very passionate individual who wants to pour his heart back into a community he was raised in. “I'm' Peorian down in my veins” A great story of heart and service!
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Kathy Rodriguez is the Principal of Charter Oak Primary School and the recipient of The Golden Apple Award! This episode Kathy opens up about her process of finding her purpose in encouraging others in chasing their dreams. Also how an entire school planned her surprise and the impact her father had on her! Great episode about finding your purpose and preparation!
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This episode we meet Brett Brooks the Senior Reporter at WEEK 25 News, Illinois State Director of Miss Illinois Earth Beauty Pageant, Author, Podcast Host and sooo much more! A life filled with relocations and redirections. Brett opens up about early life “Ls” how they pushed her to achieve more with her “Kobe mentality”. A great episode of how life throws random challenges and course corrections upon you and how Brett found her way through those moments!
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Alfred Conteh is a contemporary African American painter, sculptor and printmaker from Atlanta! Alfred is in town this weekend for multiple events and Everley Davis is a community coordinator of the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Alfred is a self proclaimed “Observer/ Social commentator” who prides himself on being authentic. We speak about his exhibit at the Peoria Riverfront Museum, also the concept of “comfort” and challenging himself to grow throughout his journey of self discovery!
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Meet James Agbara Bryson. James is the great grand nephew of Annie Malone, the first black female millionaire! Our conversation centers around the amazing work the New Millennium Institute does for our community through their “Harvesting Dreams program”. We also discuss mental and spiritual roadblocks we put in front of ourselves and James tells us the story of Annie Malone!
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We meet Abby Green, Julie Eliathamby and Candace Martell, members of Peoria Grown. We learn the roots of Peoria Grown, what healthy eating really looks like and helping modify traditions with a healthy twist! Peoria Grown helps meet our community where they are physically and culturally! With weekly markets having affordable healthy options and cooking classes to help shed light on how to make healthy eating more manageable!
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Meet Kira Kyle, she is the Prison Program Manager of Defy Ventures in Illinois! Kira takes us through the program they provide our imprisoned and how they work to instill hope and guide their student's creative process in finding their path post release! Kira also opens up about her process in finding a passion helping her students, "Defy" roadblocks and negative connotations!
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Meet Marc Supreme! We experience a journey of “Don’t hate on nobody, don’t wait on nobody” and never letting up! Marc is the GM of 90.7 FM “Strictly Hip-Hop”. From a 1.8 GPA to influencing a community through music, hosting political forums, curating art exhibits, reporting President Obama’s inauguration and now writing a book ! Marc’s story is a tale of genuine passion and confidence in your skillset!
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April is National Donate Life month! Meet Lisa Dodson the Senior Community Outreach Specialist at Gift of Hope & Tissue Donor Network! Lisa takes us through how Gift of Hope operates and brings light to misconceptions regarding organ donorship. #LightItUpPurple
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From England to Australia and Peoria, Andy King’s journey is the definition of letting go and letting God guide. Andy is the Executive Director of Dream Center Peoria! Dream Center Peoria over the years became a beacon of light for many, but if it wasn’t for one random interaction in Australia, his story may have been extremely different! Serendipity describes his journey and his heart guides him throughout! Listen in as we discover how his life has led him to Peoria and the 20 years of service Dream Center Peoria has given to our community!
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The partner you choose can impact your life greatly! This episode we meet the “Peoria Power Couple” Founder and Co Founder of Peoria’s Fashion Week, Ezra and Chanel Murry! We hear behind the scenes of how Peoria’s Fashion Week was created and how the labor of passion is seeing amazing growth! Also, the importance of having the right person in your corner can elevate you to amazing things!
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This episode, we meet Dr. Bernice Gordon Young. A born and raised Peorian, who has made mental health a passion and her way in giving back to our community. We touch on “meeting someone where they are”. Dr. Bernice speaks on her time at OSF, the culture change going to help our incarcerated and her non profit “It Takes A Village”!
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Meet Jami Truelove, the President and CEO of Big Brothers/ Big Sisters here in Peoria! For 13 years and counting, Jami and her amazing team consistently help our youth to feel supported! This episode we hear the importance of mentorship and support for the youth of our community while gaining more knowledge of the amazing work of Big Brothers and Big Sisters!
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Deric Kimler, the Director of Peoria’s hottest musical, “In The Heights” and Executive Director of Central Illinois Friends takes us on his journey of finding acceptance and liberation! Theater initially became his escape and now it’s his passion to help fight against stigmas!
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Meet Brian M. Gorsich and Nicole Stephens, two members of our community who live with multiple sclerosis. If there is one thing I can say is, they each have had their struggles.. their crosses.. set backs and continued moments of peaks and valleys.. yet they face life with laughter and optimism! The great work of National Multiple Sclerosis Society Central Illinois Community Council and lived in experience of MS is the focus of the podcast, but what I walked away with is… a greater perspective and understanding of resilience.
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Consistency… that word summarizes the journey both Ray Flacko and Mario Young have experienced. A perfect story of Ying and Yang. Through it all, through every trial they experienced, they still have a big heart and passion for Peoria! Mario and Ray have lived through variations of lost. Mario has experienced the cruelty of his father being killed and the devastation of cancer. Ray was imprisoned for 1000 plus days. Through it all, they both were able to become the best versions of themselves!
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Meet Christell Frausto! Owner of TequilRia Wine and Spirits in Peoria. Also She is the VP on The Greater Peoria Hispanic Chamber of Commerce! We hear the story of a proud Latina businesswoman! Christell takes us on her journey of security, redirection and finding her purpose here in Peoria!
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Meet John Morris who is the President and CEO of the Peoria Riverfront Museum! On this episode, John walks us through the rich history of Peoria, IL! From Richard Pryor, REO Speedwagon, prohibition, WW 2 contributions and soo much more!
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Meet Kennith Godbolt! From trauma, failed suicide attempts to providing a safe and consistent environment for himself, his daughters and for our community to feel loved and at peace! This episode focuses heavily on mental health.. acceptance and forgiveness! Amazing time spent with a new friend!
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Meet Angel Cruz. A kid from Chicago, who never felt safe to grow with love. Always on survivor mode. Angel takes us on his journey. A path filled with pain, trials and valleys. Through it all he learned humility and how to receive love. Angel opens up about mental health, working with recidivism and how the love a good woman has saved his life! Enjoy his story.
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Mr. Jorell Glass known for his style, and happy demeanor underneath that joy is a man who's seen dark days. Mr. Glass takes us through mental health, near death experience and short comings. Through it all he stays faithful in life and it's "seasons". I hope you enjoy his story!
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Meet Marcellus Sommerville, a local Peorian. Marcellus found his passion in basketball. From courts in Peoria, Illinois to overseas playing with big NBA names. He gave the game up to be a full time father and he hasn’t looked back since. Marcellus now puts his passion into the community as the head of Peoria’s Friendship House. Listen in as we look through the journey of a kid who loves the game, his community but more importantly, his family!
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Meet Heddy Elliot! Her name is well known in Peoria! For 25 plus years, Heddy has opened her heart to our community. Teaching, empowering and providing consistency to our youth and imprisoned! Enjoy a story of a big hearted teacher who has impacted many lives!
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Eddy P, a local Peoria kid. Through trauma, trials and tribulations, he turned to the art of Kung Fu, to instill self discipline and through his mentors, he found his voice, peace and took it to comedy!
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This episode we hear the story of a local Peorian. From childhood trauma to a state championship, Marines, near death experience and now giving men an opportunity to have a safe environment to experience and grow in love. Willie speaks on utilizing the gifts God has given him to help others achieve the same peace he lives in.
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Demario Boone was born and raised in South Peoria! From the duality of being a minority police officer, working 17 plus years in District 150, overcoming his trauma and how he is building a "Justice League" to help Peoria. Enjoy as we find Demario's reasoning behind his passion to remove the "fence/ red lines" in our community!
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Rev Benjamin Nicks is the Head Pastor of St Luke's/ PCAV Board member and Running for City Council. He may be a "outsider" but he preaches, "We can't have a community..without..UNITY" He wants to help us by bringing us together!
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When I tell you, Carl is a PERSONALITY! He has had moments in life that have changed his mindset and now, he is in the roots of our community, doing all he can to help prevent others from a path he has walked. Carl's story is animated and passionate. Let's welcome his story into our collection! As we learn about his May-I Outreach Program !
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Becky Rossum is best described as a "BADASS"! Her heart for our community led her to PCAV- Peoria, Community, Against, Violence. Listen as we take a close look into someone who is actively doing her best to provide comfort and hope in a time we need it most!
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Kendell's life choices led him down a path, in which he felt he took too much from the community. He has since changed his life around and small moments in his journey has reinforced the concept, "One small act of kindness" can make a huge impact! Follow as we take a look into Kendell's life journey and the good acts he is spreading through, "F.O.R.W.A.R.D - Movement"
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