Kankakee Podcast

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, Drew Raiser sits down with Jeff Cross—local caretaker, social media creator, referee, and member of the Ordinary Dads group—for a lively and wide-ranging conversation about life in and around Kankakee. Jeff shares what it’s like to care for the Aroma Park Cemetery, his unexpected journey into cleaning gravestones, and how his TikTok videos spotlighting these quiet acts of care quickly gained...

This week on Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor covers a busy week across the county. A Kankakee County Sheriff’s deputy is injured during a traffic stop gone wrong in Bourbonnais. Anne Pramaggiore, former CEO of ComEd, is sentenced in the state’s high-profile bribery scandal involving Mike Madigan. Plus, the Greater Kankakee Airport is temporarily shut down after an unauthorized entry, and Bradley explores a 5% amusement tax that ...

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Drew Raiser takes us inside Glue Man Vintage, a colorful and eclectic vintage shop in Kankakee County run by James Leroy, his former coworker and now local business owner. James opens up about the journey from thrifting enthusiast to shop owner, sharing how his love for music and vintage finds merged into a space that feels as much like a community hub as it does a store.

Drew and James ...

On this week’s Kankakee Podcast News, guest host Andrew McBurnie brings you the top stories for Friday, July 25th, 2025. Highlights include the impactful Bike Against Violence ride through city streets, the Kankakee City Council’s approval of the 2026 budget, and all you need to know about the 15th annual Merchant Street MusicFest. Plus, hear about tensions at the Manteno Village Board, a dramatic vehicle hijacking chase, and a pow...

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Drew Raisor sits down with Spencer Boudreau and Jacob Beck - the energetic duo behind Truck'A'Junk, Kankakee County’s up-and-coming junk removal service. The three dig into what it’s like to launch a new business from scratch, navigating everything from securing their first truck and trailer to landing their very first client (with a little help from the McBurnie family).

Follo...

On this week’s Kankakee Podcast News, host Drew Raisor dives into Bradley’s $6.5 million plan to redevelop Northfield Square Mall, the first confirmed case of West Nile virus in Kankakee County, and major storm damage at 315 Sports Park. We also cover two suspected arsons under investigation, the uncertain future of the JUMP! youth mentoring program after losing federal funding, and your weekend rundown of local music, events, and ...

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Bill Yonka welcomes a vibrant lineup of local storytellers as they share personal tales that connect, inspire, and resonate with the Kankakee community. Recorded in front of a live audience, July's Yarn Factory Listeners event takes listeners through a heartfelt and humorous journey—from misadventures on rural roads and the magic of college memories to deeply moving stories of surv...

On this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, host Drew Raisor breaks down the top local stories making headlines across the region. Johnsonville shocks the community with the sudden closure of its Momence plant, displacing 274 workers. In Limestone, Hawkins Park reopens after a $1.2 million renovation, while Manteno officials debate the future of garbage and tax rebates. We also cover the latest SNAP work requirement changes an...

In this heartfelt and reflective episode of the Kankakee Podcast, longtime host Jake LaMore sits in the guest seat for the very first time as he bids farewell to the show he founded and helped nurture into a community staple. Joined by co-hosts Drew Raiser and Andrew McBurney, Jake shares the story behind the podcast’s inception, the creative process, and the memorable moments and guests that left a lasting impact—including everyth...

This week on Kankakee Podcast News, we begin with a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming production of Godspell at "The Grove", directed by Matt and Andrew McBurnie—a unique father-son collaboration bringing heart and hope to the stage. Then, we celebrate another big win for rising boxing star JoJo Awinongya of Joliet, who adds another national title to his name and gears up for international competition. We also visit ...

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Katherine Henson invites us inside the vibrant and inclusive Electric Lady Lounge to celebrate Pride Month with artist, activist, and community leader Bri Haug. Joined by guest Hannah Kurtz, Katherine and Bri dive into the story behind Electric Lady Lounge, a tattoo and piercing studio intentionally built as a safe, affirming space for everyone, regardless of body type, skin tone, or id...

This week on Kankakee Podcast News: The Bourbonnais Friendship Festival kicks off its 50th anniversary celebration with five days of rides, music, and fireworks. IDOT warns drivers about dangerous road buckling from extreme heat. A Kankakee man is arrested with a stolen, modified firearm; a stabbing in Bradley leads to two arrests and drug charges; and the Manteno village board rejects a new attorney while approving oversized signa...

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with Randy King and Ben King of King Music, a multi-generational, family-owned music store that has become a pillar of the Kankakee County community since its beginnings in 1981. Randy and Ben share the fascinating journey of how King Music got its start—from humble beginnings teaching lessons in a small country-western storefront, to becoming one of the area'...

In this week’s Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor covers a packed week of local stories: Merchant Street MusicFest announces a star-studded lineup with Warren G and more; Pride2K fills The Majestic with Y2K vibes and community spirit; Relay For Life raises over $134,000 for cancer research. Plus, updates on the East Riverwalk delay, Madigan’s conviction, standout BBCHS athletes, and Jonathan Ward’s annual youth football camp. Spons...

In this heartfelt episode of the Kankakee Podcast, we're back for a night of powerful storytelling recorded live at The Venue Lounge in Downtown Kankakee. It's the June 2025 edition of Yarn Factory Listeners, where community members gather to share and celebrate the stories that make Kankakee unique.

The evening kicks off with Terry Streetman, whose moving account of courage, resilience, and the power of queer joy highligh...

This week on Kankakee Podcast News, host Drew Raisor brings you updates on the ongoing water advisory affecting Aqua Illinois customers in Kankakee County, a $218,000 boost for mental health from Riverside’s Pro-Am, and community highlights from 315 Music Fest and Pride2K. We also cover a major proposed Nicor Gas rate hike, a troubling child endangerment case, and a free grocery giveaway in Bradley. Plus, hear how four local athlet...

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with local ceramic artist Courtney Zimmerman (she/her), whose eye-catching, colorful pottery has become a staple in Kankakee County—and far beyond, thanks to a growing online following. Courtney shares her artistic journey from growing up in rural Momence to discovering her true calling in ceramics at Millikin University, and the winding path from student to full-t...

In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, host Drew Raisor breaks down the top headlines for Friday, June 5, 2025—sponsored by Stefari Coffeehouse and the Alkebulan History Center. Stories include the passage of Illinois' new school bus seat belt law, major layoffs at Momence’s Johnsonville plant, and a preview of the 315 Music Fest featuring Flo Rida, Daughtry, and Alabama. Also featured: a Joliet teen’s tragic death i...

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore is joined by local historian Jack Klasey to take a deep dive into the fascinating history of Kankakee River State Park. Together, they explore the park’s origins dating back to 1910, the grand—but ultimately failed—plans for a massive hydroelectric dam that could have transformed the region, and the ongoing efforts to preserve one of Kankakee County’s treasured natural space...