Greg & Dan Show Interviews

Greg and Dan talk with Clark Kellogg, longtime CBS Sports college basketball analyst and former NBA player, about coming to Peoria for “Hope Has An Army,” the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Annual Fundraiser, happening Thursday, October 1 at Venue Chisca. He also reflects on his own journey, the importance of his faith throughout his life and career, learning to see the bigger picture, and the message he hopes to share with those attending the event. The fundraiser supports the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary and its work serving people throughout the Peoria area.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Marie Morris and Kisha Woods about the upcoming Pathways to Success Women’s Conference, happening Friday, September 18 from 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Par-A-Dice Hotel in East Peoria. The annual conference brings women from across Central Illinois together for a full day of leadership, professional development, networking, shopping with local vendors, and opportunities to connect. Marie and Kisha preview this year’s keynote speaker Brittany Richmond, along with breakout sessions featuring Cindy Byrd, Megan Couri, and Dr. Ashley Hammond, and an early-bird leadership panel featuring several local women leaders. They also discuss this year’s theme, “Let’s Get Real: Not Perfect, but Authentically You!”, and the importance of letting go of the pressure to be perfect, embracing who you truly are, and leading with authenticity and confidence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Diana Klein of the Wheels O’ Time Museum about wrapping up another season, which runs May 1 through October 31, and the special events still ahead before the museum closes for the year. Diana highlights LEGO/Robotics Day on Saturday, September 19, featuring the museum’s “Bricks in Motion” LEGO display, local robotics and technical teams, demonstrations, and hands-on building opportunities. She also previews the museum’s annual garage sale and fundraiser on Saturday, September 26, along with the popular Fall Festival on Sunday, October 11 from noon–4 p.m., when the museum comes alive with blacksmithing, folk music, classic vehicles, fire equipment, demonstrations, trains, and more. For more information on the museum and upcoming events, visit Wheels O’ Time Museum.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Rick Blanco, founder of Casoblanco Creative, about his extensive background in the entertainment and creative industries, including work connected to major brands such as Disney, Xbox, and Mattel. He shares how those experiences shaped his career and fueled his passion for creating immersive entertainment. He also talks about his longtime love of Halloween and how that passion inspired Casoblanco Creative, a business focused on bringing imaginative experiences and concepts to life. Rick previews plans for a Halloween takeover at Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery and Eatery beginning October 15, explaining what a “takeover” involves and how he plans to transform the space and create a unique experience for visitors. He also shares why he chose to move to Peoria, what he enjoys about being part of the local community, and his hopes to bring more creative entertainment experiences to the area.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with local author Patricia Nimmo about her book Diary of a Mad White Woman, a humorous and sometimes sarcastic collection of observations about the ups, downs, and everyday experiences of life. Patricia shares what inspired her to write the book, highlights a couple of its chapters, and reflects on her outlook that there are eventually “more yesterdays than tomorrows” and why that perspective influences her writing. She also discusses where readers can find her books and previews her appearance at Between the Lines, Saturday, September 26 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. at the Peoria Civic Center, an author event bringing readers and writers together to celebrate books, storytelling, and the creative process.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Mridu Chandra, Director and Producer of the historical documentary Saund vs. Cochran, about the remarkable true story behind the film. She discusses what first drew her to this largely overlooked chapter of American political history, the extensive research behind bringing it to the screen, her background and experiences as a filmmaker, and what comes next for her. She also previews tonight’s 6:45 p.m. event at Bradley University, where audiences will get an early look at the documentary and learn more about the history behind it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Suzy Walker-Cortez and Bruce Moore of Bikers Against Street Hunger (B.A.S.H.) about the 35th Annual B.A.S.H. event, happening this Saturday September 19th. They look back at how the event got its start more than three decades ago and how its mission has continued to grow, bringing the motorcycle community together to help fight hunger throughout Central Illinois. They preview what attendees can expect from this year’s event, discuss the impact the money raised has on the community, and share the incredible passion and generosity of the local biker community when it comes to helping people in need.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Chris Setti, CEO of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council, about the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) and the work underway on the new 2026–2030 five-year plan. He explains how CEDS serves as an intentional roadmap for economic growth across Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, Mason, and Logan counties, and how community input gathered through The Big Table helps shape priorities for the region’s future. He also reflects on the progress made under the previous five-year plan and discusses why the process continually begins and ends with input and collaboration from the people who live and work throughout Greater Peoria.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Dave Johnson of Pearl Technology about the growing conversation surrounding artificial intelligence and whether it may be time to “put the brakes” on how quickly the technology is advancing. He separates some of the sensationalism surrounding AI from what the technology can and cannot actually do, while explaining the importance of understanding its limitations. He also discusses how developers work to keep AI systems contained and controlled, the concept of AI misalignment and what it means when an AI system’s behavior or goals don’t fully match what humans intended, and why safeguards are increasingly important as the technology becomes more powerful.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Gene Olson, Director of Airports for the Metropolitan Airport Authority of Peoria, about his firsthand experience working in airport operations on September 11, 2001. At the time, Olson was Director of Operations at Evansville Regional Airport, and he recalls the morning of the attacks, receiving calls from air traffic control, and the unprecedented decision to halt air traffic across the country. He walks through what it took to shut down airport operations, secure runways and terminals, sweep the building, and respond as the aviation industry faced a situation unlike anything it had experienced before. He also reflects on how airport security and procedures changed in the aftermath and how long it took for many of the new rules and systems travelers know today to take shape.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Scott Corsaut, Chairman of the Greater Peoria Honor Flight Board, and Robbie Mathison, owner of Pour Bros. Craft Taproom, about the 10th Annual Armed Forces Celebration Day, happening Saturday, September 12 from 5–11 p.m. at Pour Bros. in Peoria Heights. The annual event brings the community together to celebrate and support veterans and active-duty military members while also raising awareness of resources and services available to veterans throughout Central Illinois. They preview what attendees can expect, discuss what reaching the event’s 10th year means to the community, and share why supporting those who have served continues to be personally meaningful to them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, one of the featured speakers at today’s 25th Anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. He reflects on his own memories and experiences surrounding September 11, 2001, and how the attacks changed the country. He also shares his thoughts on America’s role in leading through diplomacy, the importance of unity and public service, and why the lives lost and sacrifices made that day must continue to be remembered by future generations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Eddie and Tracy Sutter about their deeply personal connection to September 11, 2001—the day their twin babies were born. They recall the events of that morning, what they remember seeing and hearing as the attacks unfolded, and the emotions of welcoming two new lives into the world on a day marked by unimaginable tragedy. Now, 25 years later, they reflect on that unique mixture of joy and heartbreak and the reminder that even during the darkest moments, life goes on.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Peoria Fire Chief Shawn Sollberger about today’s 25th Anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, happening at 10 a.m. at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Chief Sollberger, who is serving as honorary chair of the ceremony, reflects on the emotions he experienced on September 11, 2001, when he was just three years into his career as a firefighter, and what was happening within his own fire department as news of the attacks unfolded. He discusses the instincts firefighters develop through their training, the desire to step forward and serve when others are in danger, and what draws people to the profession in the first place. He also addresses criticism firefighters sometimes face and shares his perspective on the commitment, sacrifice, and responsibility that come with the job, while honoring the first responders and nearly 3,000 people whose lives were lost 25 years ago.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Dr. Brinda Mehta, Director of the Cancer and Blood Disorders Institute at OSF Children’s Hospital of Illinois, and Amanda Marcanio, Program Manager with OSF HealthCare, about Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and the importance of helping children not only get through treatment, but thrive during and after it. They discuss what children and families experience, advancements in treatments and support services, and the difference between cancer and non-cancerous blood disorders. They also preview the inaugural Dinking for a Cure Pickleball Tournament, happening Saturday, September 19 from 7 a.m.--2 p.m. at Glen Oak Park in Peoria. The tournament features men’s, women’s and mixed doubles divisions for adults and youth, with registration at $40 per team. Beneficiary: OSF Children’s Hospital of Illinois Cancer and Blood Disorders Institute and Paint the Town Gold. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Major Anita Sells and Tami Shawgo about “Hope Has An Army,” the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Annual Fundraiser, happening Thursday, October 1 at Venue Chisca in Peoria. The evening begins with doors opening and a silent auction at 5 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:15 p.m. and the evening program. They discuss what guests can expect from the evening and how attendees often leave feeling inspired by the stories and mission behind the Salvation Army’s work. Most importantly, funds raised by the Women’s Auxiliary stay local and support Salvation Army programs serving people throughout the Tri-County area. For more information, visit www.sapeoria.org See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Brian Carroll, the 2026 Pekin Marigold Festival, about Roots & Boots Dragon Jam, kicking off the Pekin Marigold Festival weekend on Friday, September 11 from 5-11 p.m. at the Avanti’s Event Center Fields in Pekin. He discusses how Dragon Jam celebrates Pekin’s musical past while embracing this year’s “Marigold Roots & Country Boots” country-western theme. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Eureka College Head Football Coach Dion Jordan about the inaugural Berlin Wall Bowl, happening Saturday, September 12 at McKinzie Field at Eureka College. The day begins with a tailgate at 11 a.m., followed by a special pregame ceremony at 4:30 p.m. and kickoff at 5 p.m. between the Eureka College Red Devils and Westminster College Blue Jays. He discusses the opportunity to use football as a way to help players and fans learn about and understand history, while also sharing how his own life experiences influence the way he coaches. He reflects on his personal journey through football, lessons he’s learned along the way, and how those experiences have shaped the coach and mentor he is today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Brian Alwan of Alwan & Sons Meat Company about the 20th Anniversary St. Jude Peoria to Memphis Ride, which takes off this morning from Walters Brothers Harley-Davidson. This year, 145 riders are making the 465-mile journey from Peoria toward Memphis, traveling first to Dyersburg, Tennessee, before joining other St. Jude riders and continuing to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital campus, where they’ll celebrate their fundraising efforts and present a check to St. Jude. Brian discusses the incredible support behind the ride, the number of people participating this year, and the commitment to making sure the money raised benefits the kids and families of St. Jude. Since the ride began in 2007, St. Jude Rides has raised more than $13.2 million, with last year alone bringing in approximately $1.4 million.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Alex Chan, Director of Volunteer Outreach for the Peoria Area Young Adult Social Meetup (YASM), about the 4th Annual East Peoria Riverfront Clean-Up, happening Sunday, September 20 from noon–4 p.m., with volunteers meeting at the East Peoria Target parking lot near Panera Bread. He also explains the mission behind Peoria Area YASM and discusses how the cleanup works, what volunteers can bring, and why keeping local waterways clean is an important way for the group to make a positive impact on the community. For more information or to get involved, visit Peoria Area Young Adult Social Meetup.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with David Commanday, Artistic Director and Conductor of the Heartland Festival Orchestra, about kicking off the orchestra’s 2026–27 season with “Mozart & Bruch.” The concert takes place Friday, September 11 from 7:30–9:30 p.m. at Crossroads Global Methodist Church, 1420 N. Main St. in Washington. He dives into the backgrounds of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Max Bruch, their individual approaches to music, and the passion and personality that come through in their work. For more information and tickets, visit www.heartlandfestivalorchestra.org  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Jen Grogan of Rekindle Health about some of the biggest frustrations women face when it comes to understanding their health, emotions, and the changes their bodies experience throughout different seasons of life. She also previews “Rekindle the Shift: Understanding Your Emotions, Your Body, and Your Season,” happening Saturday, September 12 at 3:30 p.m. at Quail Meadows Banquet Center in Washington. She breaks down what the event’s title represents, what women can expect from the experience, and how gaining a better understanding of the connection between emotional and physical health can help women feel more informed and empowered in their own lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Brent Bixby, Vice President of the Greater Peoria Honor Flight, about the organization’s 40th Honor Flight taking place today, Tuesday, September 8. Veterans are returning to Peoria for a welcome home at approximately 9:30 p.m. He discusses the powerful opportunity Honor Flight gives veterans to share their stories, connect with one another, and receive recognition for their service. He also reflects on how every veteran responds to the experience differently, the special connections formed throughout the day, and why being involved with the Greater Peoria Honor Flight mission is so meaningful to him.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with John Heller, founder of the Heller Center for Kids, about how the program began at OSF HealthCare Children’s Hospital of Illinois and how its mission has grown over the years. He explains how the program works, shares some of the experiences and challenges children and families have faced, and discusses why those needs led the Heller Center to evolve beyond traditional medical care. He also highlights how the Center is expanding its model of critical non-medical support to reach children and families across additional specialty areas at OSF Children’s Hospital.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Steve Bortolotti about Peoria Players Theatre’s upcoming production of Come From Away, opening Friday, September 11—the 25th anniversary of 9/11—and running through September 20. He discusses the powerful true story behind the musical and shares what audiences can expect from Peoria Players’ production, highlights members of the cast, and talks about the significance of telling this story of compassion, humanity, and connection as the country marks 25 years since 9/11. For tickets and more information, visit Peoria Players Theatre.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Tre Thompson, founder of Boys to Men Empowerment, about the organization’s mission to mentor young men in Peoria and provide them with positive role models, life skills, and opportunities that can help set them on a successful path. He also highlights Boys to Builders Academy, an initiative within Boys to Men Empowerment that teaches young men hands-on building and trade skills while also introducing entrepreneurship and the possibility of building careers or businesses of their own. He discusses the important role that men already working in the trades, construction, and other areas of the community can play by sharing their experience, skills, and guidance with the next generation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with David Houseworth, Northern Tazewell Fire Chief and co-chair of the September 11 Remembrance Ceremony Committee, about Washington’s annual September 11 Remembrance Ceremony, taking place Sunday, September 6 at 4 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Helicopter in Washington Park. He discusses what attendees can expect and why remembering the lives lost and sacrifices made on September 11 remains so important to the Washington community, especially as the nation marks the 25th anniversary of the attacks. He also highlights this year’s special guest speaker, U.S. Air Force Major Heather “Lucky” Penney, an F-16 pilot.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Sasha Volyanyk, Mark Rein, and Dr. Steve Hamon about the ongoing war in Ukraine and what daily life looks like for Ukrainians more than four years after Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Sasha, who is based in Ternopil, Ukraine, offers a firsthand perspective on what he and his family have experienced, how people have adapted to living through years of war, and the challenges of determining what information is accurate amid misinformation and propaganda. Mark and Dr. Hamon also discuss their involvement in humanitarian efforts in Ukraine, with Mark having completed multiple humanitarian mission trips to the country, and the group reflects on the resilience of the Ukrainian people and efforts to help families and children build a future despite the ongoing conflict.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Marisa Pfoff and Emily Whitaker of the River City Construction Foundation about the 3rd Annual RCC Foundation Bags Tournament – Tourney for the Trades, happening Friday, September 25 from 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. The two share all the details on how to register a team or become a sponsor and what participants can expect, including bags, live music, food trucks, raffles, prizes, and plenty of friendly competition. Most importantly, they discuss the mission behind the event: raising money to strengthen local high school trades programs and provide resources and opportunities for the next generation of skilled trades professionals. Last year’s tournament raised more than $50,000, and organizers are hoping to make an even bigger impact this year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Los Angeles Queens Manager Eric Young Sr. about being part of the historic inaugural season of the Women’s Pro Baseball League (WPBL). The former MLB All-Star discusses the passion and determination he's seen from the Queens, connecting with fans, and enjoying the experience as the new league establishes itself. He explains why he approaches coaching these women with the same expectations and intensity he brought to Major League Baseball and also discusses why the WPBL is beginning with four teams and playing its inaugural season in Springfield, Illinois, and what it means for the players and coaches to be making women's baseball history. He says Springfield has been incredibly welcoming and supportive as the league takes its first steps toward building something for the future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Amy McCoy, Executive Director of the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce, about the 54th Annual Pekin Marigold Festival, happening September 9-13. She previews what visitors can expect throughout the celebration, including live music, returning festival favorites, family-friendly activities, food, vendors, and plenty more happening around Pekin. She also highlights the Taste of Pekin on Wednesday, September 9, which helps kick off the festivities with local food and flavors before the main festival weekend. Amy explains why the Marigold Festival continues to be such a special Pekin tradition and how its wide variety of events means there's truly a little something for everyone. The festival itself dates back to 1973 and was created to honor Pekin native Everett McKinley Dirksen. For more information and tickets, visit Pekin Marigold Festival.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with chef and restaurateur David Burke about his impressive career and the passion that has driven him from his early days in the culinary world to becoming one of the country’s most recognized chefs. He reflects on his beginnings, the creativity behind his cooking, and some of the major accomplishments that have built his résumé. He also previews his upcoming “Beat Burke” culinary competition at Mt. Hawley Country Club in Peoria this October, where Burke will go head-to-head with a local chef in a live, friendly cooking showdown. The Beat Burke format combines dinner and entertainment as chefs create dishes in front of guests, putting their creativity, flavors and presentation to the test.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Chad Taylor, Operations Manager, as he celebrates an impressive 30 years in radio. He looks back on where he grew up, the different places his career has taken him, and his first impressions of Peoria. He also shares his extensive background in the music industry, some of the successes and memorable experiences he's had along the way, and how his passion for music and radio has shaped his career over the past three decades.  You can catch Chad weekday afternoons on 106.9 The Mix and connect with him on social media at @chadtaylorradio!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Peggy Jacques, Executive Director of the Graceland Center for Purposeful Aging, about the upcoming “Celebrate Generations, Peoria!” intergenerational mural project, happening Thursday, September 3 and Thursday, September 10 from 5:30–7:30 p.m. She explains the importance of connecting younger and older generations, why the painting is divided between two evenings and scheduled in 30-minute shifts, and how everyone can participate regardless of artistic experience with the paint-by-number design. A light dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m. each evening before painting begins.  For more information or to RSVP, visit Graceland Center for Purposeful Aging or call 833-503-7773.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with videographer and business owner Chris LeCrone of Chris LeCrone Media about his journey as a Peoria-born-and-raised creator and how his passion for cameras and technology eventually led him into drone videography. He shares how he got his start creating and posting videos on social media and why he enjoys showcasing Peoria from a perspective people may not always get to see. He talks about his love for the area, the variety of things to do throughout Central Illinois (especially outdoors) and how his work allows him to highlight the community through creative visuals.  Check out Chris and his work at Chris LeCrone MediaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Chris Setti of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council about the recent passing of longtime Peoria City Councilman Eric Turner and the impact he had on the community. The conversation also turns to the strength that comes from diversity among Peoria’s residents, customers, businesses, and industries, and why having a diversified economy can help create a stronger and more resilient region. He also discusses the importance of continued investment in Greater Peoria, noting that businesses and individuals are more likely to invest in communities that are already demonstrating growth, confidence, and a willingness to invest in themselves.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Dave Johnson of Pearl Technology about Flock Safety cameras, what they are, how they work, and the law enforcement agencies and communities using them to help identify vehicles and assist with investigations. He also discusses Axon’s Fusus platform and explains the growing role of artificial intelligence in analyzing and organizing information. He also shares how these tools can be used responsibly to help law enforcement protect people and communities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with former Peoria Mayor Jim Ardis about the passing of longtime Peoria City Councilman Eric Turner over the weekend and the legacy he leaves behind. He reflects on the 22 years the two served together, sharing memories of working alongside Turner and discussing his dedication to public service, his commitment to Peoria, and the impact he had on the community throughout his many years of leadership. The conversation honors Turner’s life, his service to the city, and the lasting influence he had on the people and community he represented.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Bradley University Men’s Basketball Head Coach Brian Wardle about the Braves’ newly released schedule and what he likes about the matchups ahead for the 2026–27 season. He breaks down some of the teams Bradley will face, what goes into the scheduling process, and how the schedule can help prepare the Braves for conference play. He also introduces fans to this year’s new-look team, sharing insight into the players’ personalities, highlighting some of the talent on the roster, and discussing how the group is coming together. He says it’s an exciting time for Bradley Basketball and encourages fans to get involved, feel the energy, and support the Braves throughout the season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Renae Kerrigan of the Dome Planetarium at the Peoria Riverfront Museum about the recent lunar eclipse and the museum’s special viewing party, which brought out around 140 guests to experience the celestial event together. She also shares details from her recent research trip to Nome, Alaska, where she joined a team of scientists studying how increased beaver activity is changing Arctic landscapes. She explains how beavers create ponds that can alter surrounding ecosystems, what researchers are learning about those environmental impacts, and why studying these changes is important. She also reflects on her love of teaching all areas of science and how the trip gave her the unique opportunity to become the student herself and learn alongside other scientists.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Jeff Huebner, Marketing Chairman for Peoria Irish Fest, about the annual Peoria Irish Fest, kicking off tonight and running through Sunday on the Peoria Riverfront. He breaks down how the festival works and highlights the wide variety of activities available throughout the weekend, from live Irish music and dancing, vendors, and plenty of activities for kids. He explains why the festival is truly family-friendly -- kids 12 and under receive free admission and shares how Irish Fest brings people together for music, culture, and friendship. The weekend also includes the annual Liturgy for Peace and Justice on Sunday morning, with music beginning at 10:30 a.m. and the service at 11 a.m. Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the festival!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with John Morris, President and CEO of the Peoria Riverfront Museum, about a major new gift supporting the museum’s Every Student Initiative (ESI). The Barton Family Foundation has been involved with ESI since its beginning, providing early funding that helped launch the program, which gives Central Illinois students curriculum-connected museum experiences and has since expanded its reach. He discusses the newly announced $5 million endowment gift, the largest gift in the museum’s history, and how it will help secure and expand educational opportunities for generations of students throughout Peoria and the surrounding region. He also reflects on the program’s growth, the importance of doing good in the community, and the museum’s hopes to reach even more students in the years ahead. He also previews We Remember: Stories from the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, commemorating the 25th anniversary of September 11 opening next week!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with local author Jodi Zacovic about her children's books Everyone Has an Angel and her newest book, Sylvie’s First Angel Assignment. She shares the deeply personal inspiration behind her writing following the loss of her granddaughter, Sylvie, and how Everyone Has an Angel became an important part of her own healing journey while offering children and families a message of faith, comfort, and hope. She also discusses Sylvie’s First Angel Assignment, which follows Angel Sylvie as she receives her first heavenly assignment and explores themes of kindness, patience, love, and helping others. She reflects on using her books to help families navigate loss, connect with one another, and find hope during difficult moments. To learn more about Jodi and purchase her books, visit Jodi D. Zacovic’s official website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Bradley University President Jim Shadid about the start of the 2026–2027 academic year and the excitement surrounding the first days back on campus. He discusses getting construction projects cleaned up and ready in time for move-in, how decisions surrounding campus improvements are made, and the positive energy he's felt from students returning to Bradley. He also highlights the university's two new majors in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, along with new initiatives surrounding women's athletics that have already received an overwhelmingly positive response. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Ambassador Francis Rooney about the latest tensions between President Donald Trump and Canada, including tariffs and the growing trade dispute between the two countries. Rooney shares his perspective on the Trump administration’s broader foreign policy approach, how current trade tensions could affect relationships with longtime U.S. allies, and what he believes may happen next. He also discusses the importance of diplomacy and maintaining strong international relationships during an increasingly complicated period in global affairs.  You can also check out his book, The Global Vatican: An Inside Look at the Catholic Church, World Politics, and the Extraordinary Relationship Between the United States and the Holy See, which draws on his experience as ambassador. Follow him on Instagram @repfrancisrooney See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Msgr. Gray about the upcoming beatification of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen and what beatification means within the Catholic Church -- the formal recognition of a person as “Blessed,” one of the final steps on the path toward sainthood. He discusses the power of prayer, Sheen’s remarkable life and legacy, and the journey that has led to this historic moment. He also previews the Beatification Mass on September 24 at The Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis, where tens of thousands of people are expected to gather for a worldwide celebration of Sheen’s life and faith. The celebration then returns to Peoria on September 25 with Masses, special events, and the inaugural Sheen Awards Gala at 6 p.m. at the Peoria Civic Center, honoring individuals who continue Sheen’s legacy through faith, media, and evangelization.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Steve Stewart, Director of People and Culture, and David Tankersley, Communications Manager at Morton Industries, about the company's new facility in East Peoria and the continued growth of a business that has been part of Central Illinois for 80 years. They explain what Morton Industries does, how the company has expanded across multiple locations over the decades, and what the new East Peoria plant will bring to its operations and workforce. They also preview what's happening this weekend when Greg and Dan broadcast live on Saturday from 8-10 a.m., and what visitors can expect from the morning. Find Morton Industries on social media for more information!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Dr. Barbara Toohill, therapist with The Antioch Group, about recent stories in the news involving Hayden Panettiere and Lindsay Clancy and the larger conversation surrounding postpartum mental health. Dr. Toohill discusses what people need to understand about conditions that can occur during pregnancy and after childbirth, including postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, postpartum OCD, and postpartum psychosis, as well as when symptoms can develop and how the conditions differ from one another. She also explains how awareness and understanding have grown over the past decade and emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms and seeking professional help, with treatment and support potentially including counseling, social support, medication, and adequate sleep.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Dennis Carr, City Engineer for the City of Washington, about the ribbon-cutting ceremony and rededication of the Candlewood Bridge at Glendale Cemetery, happening today at 10:00 a.m. He shares the history behind the bridge and discusses the extensive work that went into restoring it while preserving its historic character. He explains some of the restrictions and challenges crews faced during the repair process, including the effort to reuse as many of the original stones as possible, and what it means to see this piece of Washington history restored for the community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Denise Beattie and Bobby Lee about Half an Hour in Heaven, a play by playwright Cinzi Lavin, at Peoria Irish Fest, with performances happening Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. and Sunday at 3:30 p.m. They share the history behind the performance and how it has become part of the Irish Fest experience, while Bobby discusses the character he portrays and what it's like bringing the role to life. They also reflect on what they personally take away from the show, its connection to Irish history and heritage, and what audiences can expect from the performance. Admission to Half an Hour in Heaven is free once you're inside Peoria Irish Fest!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.