Squared Up

In Episode 63 of Swinford Media’s “Squared Up” podcast, we remember Brian Swinford, who passed away unexpectedly this month. We also welcome guest Steve McKeown, who is leading a drive to install a lift to take visitors to the Bald Knob Cross of Peace up for a higher view. Don’t miss this episode of our podcast, which focuses on the best and brightest around our region.

From Swinford Media Group, our “Squared Up” crew meets Emma Bartlett of Marion, who has already qualified to be called on of America’s most artistic kids! And she paints for us! She also guesses Bill’s and Tom’s ages, can you? Meanwhile, Monica shares some adventures in hormone therapy. And, as usual, we talk about the latest in downtown Marion and the region.  “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on local happenings and behind the scenes at Swinford Media Group. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew,” or “Hometown Heat,” or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In this, the 61st episode of Squared Up, our panel debates the ways that social media harms us and helps us. Bill discusses his recent interview with Marlon Wayans and Monica explains her hat, which gives away her age and other personal information. Tom also shares about his recent workshop where he taught the power of video in marketing. And there’s more in this installment of the Swinford Media Group’s podcast, based in downtown Marion and available on many streaming platforms. Subscribe to this channel and never miss an episode!

In this, the 60th episode of “Squared Up” from Swinford Media Group, our podcast couple evaluates their relationship for Valentine’s Day and after 6 months of marriage. Bill wants to know, do they really share and share alike? As always, Tom weighs in on that and many other topics including the planned patriotic drone show, rodeo and concert at Mtn. Dew Park.  “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on the happenings in Marion, the region and behind the scenes at Swinford Media Group. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew,” or “Hometown Heat,” or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

From Swinford Media Group, our “Squared Up” crew talks about drone video capturing and the way it is being used to cover the news and the newest developments in the region. Also, we say goodbye to the Grand Goats, discuss some upcoming events and discuss the Chamber of Commerce awards dinners being held this month and next. “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on the happenings in Marion, the region and behind the scenes at Swinford Media Group. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew,” or “Hometown Heat,” or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Marion (IL) Mayor Mike Absher brought some challenging words to the 58th episode of “Squared Up”: “Quit talking and start doing.” He discusses a few of the key people and actions that have turned Marion into one of the highest per-capita retail sales powerhouses in Illinois. Included is a story about a day when – with no plan or materials in place – a group of volunteers and students transformed a neighborhood, causing a national leader in community renewal to pay the young people of Marion a huge compliment. “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on the happenings in Marion, the region and behind the scenes at Swinford Media Group. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew,” or “Hometown Heat,” or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In this 57th episode of “Squared Up,” our hosts give a Christmas Trivia Quiz. Are you up to the challenge? Play along! Also, Bill tells a story about an attempt someone made to steal his van (!) and the looniness that ensued because of it. Our hosts also tease a Swinford Media Christmas Eve special you can watch. “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on the happenings in Marion, the region and behind the scenes at Swinford Media Group. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew,” or “Hometown Heat,” or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In this 56th episode of “Squared Up,” we discuss how to stay healthy for the holidays and look back on another cold night at the Very Merry Marion Christmas Parade. “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on the happenings in Marion, the region and behind the scenes at Swinford Media Group. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew,” or “Hometown Heat,” or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In this 55th episode of “Squared Up,” we meet Derek Wall and learn what motivates him to feed hundreds in Marion each Thanksgiving Day “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on the happenings in Marion, the region and behind the scenes at Swinford Media Group. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew,” or “Hometown Heat,” or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In this 54th episode of “Squared Up,” we get a look at a version of producer Tom Mann in some old photos that we’ve never seen before. Also, Monica’s back just in time to watch Bill devour a cupcake and reminisce about when he cut his hair and shaved his beard. We also preview the upcoming Very Merry Marion Christmas Parade, set for November 30. “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on the happenings in Marion, the region and behind the scenes at Swinford Media Group. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew,” or “Hometown Heat,” or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In this 53rd episode of “Squared Up,” Sophia Swinford fills in for Monica and talks about her life, friends, TikTok’s and future plans. Also, special guest Byram Fager of the Southern Illinois Community Foundation stops by to talk about his organization’s work and some new projects. “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on the happenings in Marion, the region and behind the scenes at Swinford Media Group. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew,” or “Hometown Heat,” or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In this 52nd episode of “Squared Up,” Bill, Monica and Tom talk to their friend Darla Harms of the Salvation Army. Did you know that, in 2024, 1,580 children and 380 homebound seniors received Christmas gifts, over 20,000 food parcels were distributed, more than 700 senior citizens received food commodities, 1,800 diapers and hygiene packs were provided to families in need, 400 households benefited from utility assistance, 160 families avoided eviction through rental support, nearly 10,000 articles of clothing were distributed and assistance was provided to more than 100 families impacted by fire or tornado disasters – all because of the generosity of Southern Illinoisans through the Salvation Army? The organization’s annual Red Kettle Campaign will kick-off on Tower Square on Friday, Nov. 7. “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on the happenings in Marion, the region and behind the scenes at Swinford Media Group. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew,” or “Hometown Heat,” or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In this 51st episode of “Squared Up,” Monica talks about the ringing in her ears and Tom tries his best to diagnose. We learn of her love for dolphins and then our couple gets down to business talking about the latest downtown and around the area. “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on the happenings in Marion, the region and behind the scenes at Swinford Media Group. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew,” or “Hometown Heat,” or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In this milestone 50th episode of “Squared Up,” Bill and Monica’s podcast is taken over by two Toms – Director Tom Mann and friend Tom Harness – who have created a version of “The Newlywed Game” with the apparent goal of getting Bill into hot water. They also discuss local veterans issues and opportunities with Tom H., a well-known advocate for those who have served in uniform. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew,” or “Hometown Heat,” or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In the 49th episode of “Squared Up,” Bill and Monica open up about the realities of blending two lives together — the joys, the challenges, and a few of the bumps along the way. They share some of the early hurdles they’ve faced as newlyweds, along with lighthearted updates from around the square and the Southern Illinois region. Tune in for an honest, entertaining look at life after “I do.” Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew,” or “Hometown Heat,” or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In this, the 48th episode of “Squared Up,” we celebrate the matrimonial union of two of our hosts (no, not Bill and Tom). Get a look at some early images from wedding weekend and join the celebration as Bill and Monica recount the experience and Tom gives his critical review. We also meet Monica’s son Seth before he heads off to Oregon State University to study Nuclear Engineering! Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew” or “Hometown Heat", or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

We are now just days away from the big wedding and there is still so much to do! But, Bill, Monica and Tom still wanted to take time to talk to their friend Ken Anderson, whose WBVN 104.5 FM station turns 35 this year.  In this, the 48th episode of “Squared Up,” they discuss the journey of the Contemporary Christian station that operates less than a block south of Tower Square Plaza. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew” or “Hometown Heat", or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In this, the 46th episode of “Squared Up,” Monica talks about her great experience bridal shopping at “Blush & Ivory” in downtown Marion. She tried on many dresses, but did she pick one? We also get a look at young Tom in an old commercial as he recounts the period of his life when is on-screen wife was mistaken for his real-life wife. We preview our SI Made Talent Show on Friday, July 18 and tell you how you can watch live! We also have other stories to tell and events to tease while Tom keeps looking for his remote control. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew” or “Hometown Heat", or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Our crew meets to record Swinford Media’s weekly podcast about a lot of randomness, including Monica not being included on the lease, Bill's thinning hair and Tom's stinky feet solution. Monica thinks this episode needs a lot of editing but you’re getting it all, let us know what you think on the Squared Up Facebook page. Follow us weekly on the Swinford Media Group Channel on YouTube, on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

What happens when you podcast without a plan? You end up talking about everything and nothing at the same time. Bill loves it, but does Monica? Tom gets a kick out of it all as the pair run through their recent ventures and plans in Episode 44. With much of our hosts' time being taken up by an upcoming wedding, follow the progress weekly on “Squared Up” from Swinford Media Group, available on the company’s YouTube channel, Apple Podcast or Spotify.

In this, the 43rd episode of “Squared Up,” we welcome Dr. Glenn Poshard to the studio to promote his “Beginnings and Endings” poetry tour, which launches Sunday, June 22, at 2pm at The Varsity Center in Carbondale. The former Congressman reads two emotional, personal poems for us to sample the program he is offering in return for donations to local food pantries. Bill, Monica and Tom share other recent escapades, as well. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew” or “Hometown Heat", or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In the 42nd episode of “Squared Up,” we introduce you to Chef Chris Banks, the host of a new monthly podcast from Swinford Media Group. Chris tells us some of his story and about his vision for “Hometown Heat” and we share a clip. Bill, Monica and Tom also share some other stories for the followers of Swinford Media, one of the most popular news sources in the region. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up” or “Hometown Heat", or listen to the weekly podcast on Spotify or Amazon Music or Apple Podcasts!

In the 41st episode of “Squared Up," Monica shows off her new engagement ring! Have they set the date? Our team also discusses the devastation of the May 16 tornado and the amazing volunteers who have already made a difference. And there’s so much happening around the square as the summer begins, including great food offerings. But, Monica is on a water fast (and it’s not going that well). Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode, or listen to the weekly podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In the 40th episode of their podcast, Bill and Monica discuss hitting the links at Kokopelli Golf Club and why a round at the simulator is a good way to prepare for the course. They also recount a night with the Marion Rotary Club at “The Liar’s Club.” They talk with Tom about their own personal history of vaccinations and childhood illnesses and then tease a brand new monthly show being produced by Swinford Media. Be sure to subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcast so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up!”, a Marion-based celebration of the best of our region.

In Episode 39 of Squared Up, we sit down with Aaron Price, the ambitious young journalist who launched the WFCN social media page at just 13 years old. Six years later, WFCN boasts over 80,000 followers on Facebook, and Aaron is now a college student and an essential member of the Swinford Media team. This episode also includes a recap of our experience at the Saluki Ball, a discussion on the sneaky trend known as "hatfishing," and a spotlight on a new book from our friend Roger Lipe. Be sure to subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube and your favorite podcast platforms so you never miss an episode!

On the 38th edition of the Squared Up podcast from the Swinford Media Group, our trio is making preparations to attend the Saluki Ball. In addition, Monica shares her experiences at Herrin’s 125th birthday party, Bill tells about a conversation with the Marion mayor on Tower Square and we get another chance to sing a little! Subscribe to the Swinford Media Group on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform and don’t miss a single edition of Squared Up, brought to you by Watermark Auto Group.

On this latest edition of the Squared Up podcast from the Swinford Media Group, Monica offers help to small businesses and non-profits looking for grants and loans, including steps for grant writing and local agencies ready to help. Monica, the executive director of the Herrin Chamber of Commerce, also talks about celebrations happening to celebrate that city’s 125th birthday. We also meet Tom’s hungry dog Bear and discuss other plans and happenings in Williamson County, Illinois, and beyond. Subscribe to the Swinford Media Group on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform and don’t miss a single edition of Squared Up, brought to you by Watermark Auto Group and the Black Diamond Family of Businesses.

In the latest episode of Swinford Media’s “Squared Up” podcast, Bill reminisces about Jansco’s Show Bar in Johnston City and the iconic pool matches once aired on ABC. Although Jansco’s is no longer around, Tom gives a shout-out to another longtime Johnston City favorite, Andresen’s. The conversation then shifts to the Square, where Bill and Monica share highlights from their recent trip to “Little Nashville,” including a review of locally-sourced Prime Rib and a fantastic performance by a local artist. Don’t forget to subscribe to Swinford Media to get notifications whenever Bill, Monica, and Tom release new episodes of “Squared Up.”

On the latest episode of Swinford Media’s “Squared Up” podcast, we enjoy a visit from Senator Dale Fowler, who fills us in on plans for the next “SI Made Expo,” including a new event that will bring a talent show to Tower Square! Should the “Squared Up Singers” make an appearance? We also pay tribute to local fire chief Jeremy Norris, who passed away last week, with remembrances and some exclusive footage of Chief Norris on the job. Subscribe to Swinford Media and be alerted when Bill, Monica and Tom drop new episodes of “Squared Up.”

On the 34th edition of Swinford Media Group’s “Squared Up” podcast, Bill and Monica introduce the streaming show “Severance" to Tom, who has not seen a single episode of Apple TV’s hugely popular series. They ponder whether they would undergo the severance procedure just to get through the work day. They also reflect on why Swinford Media Group’s storm coverage has become so popular on social media. The team announces a “Make Music Marion” day being planned for June 21, and discuss other topics of interest. Subscribe to the Swinford Media Group channel on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform and don’t miss a single episode!

In the latest episode of Swinford Media’s “Squared Up” podcast, Bill and Tom track down Monica, who escaped to Florida for Spring Break. They recap the opening of Seasoning Bistro on Tower Square, an awards banquet at Walker’s Bluff and a career fair in Herrin. They also try to clear up some misunderstandings about the new sports fields being constructed near the Pavilion. Also, palm trees and Monica in beach bunny mode. Subscribe to Swinford Media and never miss any of their Southern Illinois-based content!

City of Marion Chief of Staff Cody Moake explains why this week was huge in the Oasis redevelopment in and around the former mall. He will share details with Bill and Monica as construction equipment is moving into place for the huge $250 million project. But, it’s not all business, as Tom shares more Boomer memories and Bill gets more packs of candy cigs. Monica also reads encouraging notes from some Mastermind classmates in this feel-good  Episode 32 of “Squared Up!”

Bill and Monica talk more about the Oasis Development now underway, including why sports tourism is so important to making the other pieces work. They also expose shocking details from their Valentine’s Day date and ask you to weigh in on a few questions, so don’t miss Episode 31 of “Squared Up!”

Bill and Monica share details on the timeline and plans for Marion’s mall renovation and re-invention, along with the new hotel and entertainment centers coming to that area. They also share stories from Herrin’s 125th birthday celebration and run through all the best stuff happening around Williamson County and the region. Plus Valentine’s Day memories and advice, so don’t miss Episode 30 of “Squared Up!”

In Episode 29 of Swinford Media’s podcast on all-things local, Monica feels betrayed after she learns what Bill really thinks of her hat. Tom gets into the conversation by showing one of his WWII helmets and a history lesson ensues. The conversation turns closer to home as our hosts talk about joining The Hub recreation center and preview upcoming events. Bill talks about his all-time favorite dog and more personal details are shared (TMI?).  “Squared Up!” Is a weekly podcast featuring Bill Swinford, Monica Daniels and Tom Mann, who bring you the best of Southern Illinois.

In Episode 28 of Swinford Media Group’s podcast on all-things local, our team recaps the recent winter storms and Tom shows how he keeps the studio (and his house) up and running when the power goes out. We also recap the reaction to our Christmas episode, discuss upcoming events and compare “Jurassic Park” to “Land of the Lost.” Yes, it’s our usual mix of useful and non-useful information on the “Squared Up!" podcast featuring Bill Swinford, Monica Daniels and Tom Mann, who bring you the best of Southern Illinois. To see more of Tom’s tips, watch his video here: youtube.com/watch?v=PeZ-ANhsW10&feature=youtu.be

In Episode 27 of Swinford Media’s podcast on all-things local, our crew celebrates Christmas with some weird tales and some off-key singing. Who won our favorite song contest, a Donkey or a Reindeer? And what is Bill smoking, anyway? We also hear about a new mural near Tower Square, a roundup of recent happenings in downtown Marion and a trip to a Herrin Italian market that scored some childhood favorites for Bill, Monica and Tom. Don’t miss this episode, so good we recorded it twice! “Squared Up!” Is a weekly podcast featuring Bill Swinford, Monica Daniels and Tom Mann, who bring you the best of Southern Illinois.

In Episode 26 of Swinford Media’s podcast on all-things local, Bill recalls a former Herrin mayor and a visit by Ronald Reagan, while Monica details a recent visit to a unique local business. sausage store. And what do all these things have in common? Tune in to find out. Also, we list the early nominees for the Christmas classic that will be sung on our Christmas show in two weeks. And there’s more, including an update on “12 Days of Giveaways” and how you can win! “Squared Up!” Is a weekly podcast featuring Bill Swinford, Monica Daniels and Tom Mann, who bring you the best of Southern Illinois.

As Bill and Monica review a frigid but fun weekend, we also learn that Tom and Monica both were the recipients of swats during their school days. There are more surprising revelations on the 25th episode of “Squared Up!” Now, it’s your turn. Jump in the comments on our YouTube or Facebook socials and let us know your favorite Christmas song. If enough people agree with you, we will plan a special performance in an upcoming episode of Swinford Media Group's in-house podcast... subscribe today so you never miss an edition of “Squared Up!”

We’re celebrating the completion of the Tower Square renovation on the 24th episode of “Squared Up!” Bill attended the city’s ribbon cutting and has final details to share. We also run down the list of activities for the first holiday weekend and remind you how to enter “12 Days of Giveaways” to win BIG prizes. And who is Dara, and why did she doodle on our coffee cups. Learn that and more on this latest edition of Swinford Media Group's in-house podcast... subscribe today so you never miss an edition of “Squared Up!”

The tears flow on an emotional 23rd episode of “Squared Up,” as Bill and Monica share some personal news. But is that why Monica is crying? Watch to find out, and also learn about an exciting “12 Days of Giveaways” that you can register for right now as Swinford Media and the “Thrillville” developers collaborate to make the holidays even better! We also hear a great story about how Tom met his wife. There’s even more on this special episode, subscribe today so you never miss an edition of “Squared Up!”

It’s time for Trivia on “Squared Up,” as Bill and Monica quiz Tom on some questions from a fundraiser they helped host. Bill also reveals a new love for a children’s story that has captivated him as an adult. Meanwhile, we bring you updates and a rundown on the best stuff happening around Williamson County as we mark our 22nd episode.

Another new restaurant is coming to Marion and they’re decorating for Christmas downtown. Meanwhile, the Herrin Chamber is using handbags to raise money for a good cause. Bill updates us on the latest news from Swinford Media Group, Tom recommends a unique movie and, as the weather gets colder, Monica is feeling the heat. Check out the 21st episode of “Squared Up!”

This week we look back at 40 years on the local airwaves with Mark Kiesling, who just retired as senior news anchor at the local ABC affiliate, WSIL-TV. On this, the 20th episode of “Squared Up,” we discuss the public’s reaction to the surprising news, ask Mark to recall some stories from his long career, and hear his secret to remaining at peace despite circumstances. We also share some new images from Tower Square and a photo from a Halloween party that Bill and Monica attended. 

In our 19th edition of the “Squared Up” podcast from Swinford Media Group, Bill ponders why so many races on the upcoming ballot are uncontested. Tom talks about his friend – who parted ways with a local TV network affiliate after decades – and the complications of being corporate-owned. Monica has thoughtful contributions on both topics, despite the fact that she believes she has a bug in her ear. Our trio then shares other foreign objects that have lodged in their ears, noses and heads. 

In our 18th edition of the “Squared Up” podcast from Swinford Media Group, Monica and Bill share memories of Fred Huff, a beloved haberdasher and local historian. They also discuss the value of good educators and ask you to share the name of a favorite teacher. Among other topics, there are updates from Tower Square and we tease what our couple will wear to a Halloween party. Can you guess? Jump in the comments and thanks for following “Squared Up!"

Bricks are now being laid in the parking/pedestrian areas to finish renovations of Tower Square Plaza! Bill and Monica share their excitement and discuss some recent viewer and listener responses and ponder another excerpt from the “He Said, She Said” book.

In the 16th episode of the Swinford Media Group’s podcast, based on Marion’s Tower Square, we update you on some coming events and recap some of the top news locally. Also, what popular songs have you misheard? Monica, Bill and Tom laugh their way through some crazy, messed-up lyrics. 

Construction around Marion’s Tower Square is really starting to come together and Bill and Monica bring an update. Monica shares more from the “He Said, She Said” book and her trip to visit family out east. She also cautions listeners about trusting Bill with their childhood traumas, such as ventriloquist’s dummies. And then everything screeches to a halt after Monica runs out on her co-host. Also, Tom gets his own camera!

September 7th will be the 20th anniversary of Veterans On Parade and it will also introduce a new way to honor our veterans: “Freedom Sings!” Find out how you can participate as professional songwriters pair with a select group of war veterans to tell their stories in a concert on Tower Square. Also, speaking of the square, Bill and Monica discuss some of the features being installed in new crosswalks that will make it safer for pedestrians.