PODCAST · society
KZ Community Beat
by MWC
A Conversation with Peoria's Community Leaders, Activists, Artists and Storytellers
Episodes
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KZ Community Beat - President of The Peoria Public School Board - Dr Gregory Wilson
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...
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KZ Community Beat - GBC Autism Services
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! See omnystudio.com/listener for...
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KZ Community Beat - Peoria 50501 - The Power of The People
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...
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KZ Community Beat - El Morning Chou - The Voice of Peoria's Latino Community
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...
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KZ Community Beat - KZ Cares - Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter
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.…
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Orange and Black - Legacy, Loss, and the City That Changed
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...
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Empowering the Next Generation – Marilyn Woods on Peoria’s First Girls Flag Football Clinic
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...
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KZ Community Beat - BLOOM: Juneteenth, Race, and the Reality We Live In
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...
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KZ Community Beat - Marques Cox - From Peoria to The NFL
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…
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KZ Cares May Spotlight- Crittenton Centers
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…
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KZ CARES April Spotlight - The Center of Prevention for Abuse
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...
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KZ Community Beat AEW Kyle Fletcher
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…
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KZ Community Beat : Estrella Diaz
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...
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KZ CARES - Mark Linder Walk For The Mind
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...
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EP 63 Mayor Rita Ali
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…
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Episode 62 CJ Harvest - Chuck Brown
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...
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EP 61 Nikki Romain of Art Inc
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” See omnystudio.com/listener for...
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EP 60 Alzheimer's Assocition Illinois Chapter
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...
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EP 59 The Neighborhood House
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!! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy...
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EP 58 Ali Siddiq
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...
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EP 57 The Tri-County Urban League
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…
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EP 56 Ruben Ramirez
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…
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EP 55 Peoria Fashion Week
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…
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EP 54 Susan G Komen & Circle of Promise
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,...
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EP 53 MS Awareness Week
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...
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EP 52 OSF New Cancer Institute
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! See...
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EP 51 PCCEO - Charles White
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…
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EP 50 CHRIS SETTI
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…
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EP 49 Lutheren Social Services
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…
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EP 48 Gimme Shelter 2024
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...
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EP 47 Everley Davis
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...
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EP 46 Ms Adrienne Tinsley
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!…
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EP 45 Santa Bill
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...
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EP 44 Tightest Whitest
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…
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EP 43 Peoria House Music Peace Project
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...
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EP 42 Salsa Nights!
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,...
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EP 41 BEAT THE FUNK OUT OF MS
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...
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EP 40 Glenn Bowie
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…
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EP 39 HOOPS INC
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! See...
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EP 38 Jalen Jenkins
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…
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EP 37 Greg Batton
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...
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EP 36 Yvonne Greer Batton
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” See omnystudio.com/listener for...
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EP 35 Marquise Henderson
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...
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EP 34 PCAV - Peoria Community Against Violence
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. See...
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EP 33 Chief of Police Eric Echevarria
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...
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EP 32 "East Bluff Community Center" Jenny Winne
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,...
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EP 31 Hannah and Narria from Big Brother/Big Sister
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…
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EP 30 "Fill The Fire Truck" with Scott Howard and Chanel Murry
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 Campaign”, but more importantly we learn about Scott Howard. A very passionate...
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EP 29 KATHY RODRIGUEZ
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...
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EP 28 Brett Brooks
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...
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does KZ Community Beat have?
KZ Community Beat currently has 77 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is KZ Community Beat about?
A Conversation with Peoria's Community Leaders, Activists, Artists and Storytellers
How often does KZ Community Beat release new episodes?
KZ Community Beat has 77 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to KZ Community Beat?
You can listen to KZ Community Beat on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts KZ Community Beat?
KZ Community Beat is created and hosted by MWC.
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