In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with fellow local media personality Josh Carman for a candid conversation about community, competition, and the power of storytelling. Josh—long-time radio host of WKAN’s Morning Roundtable and a Kankakee native—shares his journey growing up in the Herscher-Limestone area, his early fascination with movies and acting, and how he unexpectedly found his niche in radio and journalism.
Jake and Josh dive into the behind-the-scenes world of local radio, reflecting on the challenges and rewards of covering local news, adapting to the quickly changing media landscape, and the camaraderie (and occasional pranks!) among Kankakee’s radio stations—even when you’re supposed to be rivals. The two also discuss the importance of breaking down barriers in the community, collaborating across organizations, and telling the stories that matter most to Kankakee.
Josh opens up about his experience learning from respected mentors, his time at Olivet Nazarene University, and how he went from running the radio board to hosting his own show. The episode explores the difference between being a journalist and a talk show host, maintaining integrity in local reporting, and striking the balance between objectivity and personality on air.
As leaders and residents alike debate new projects like the Kankakee Riverfront and The Grove in Bourbonnais, Josh and Jake encourage listeners to look for the positives, embrace change, and help shape a more connected, optimistic community.
What was it like to go from covering city council meetings to interviewing mayors live on the air? How do you handle criticism and negativity from online “armchair quarterbacks”? And what does Josh see as the future of Kankakee County? Tune in for this thoughtful, behind-the-mic episode about media, leadership, and keeping things local.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or new to the Kankakee area, this episode is a timely reminder of why community storytelling matters—and how working together can make our hometown stronger.
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