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 chat about the early days of Glue Man Vintage, from landing their first mention in the Daily Journal to juggling road trips for hidden thrift treasures while keeping the shop running smoothly with his wife, Jessi. James dives into the nuts and bolts of sourcing vintage gems, the camaraderie among Illinois’ community of resellers, and his favorite finds—from rare '90s tees to quirky VHS tapes and, yes, a Dr. Pepper vending machine saved from Facebook Marketplace.
But Glue Man Vintage is more than racks of retro clothing. James talks candidly about hosting punk and hardcore shows in the shop, building a space where creativity and friendship thrive, and the role of the ping pong table, Magic cards, and even a Nintendo Wii in bringing people together. The episode takes listeners behind the scenes—literally—with a shop tour, stories of viral video fame among the vintage crowd, and insight into why unique pieces and unexpected art make the shop stand out.
Hear why community is at the heart of everything James and Jesse do, and how Glue Man Vintage has quickly become a hangout for music lovers, thrifters, and anyone seeking a place to belong in Kankakee.
Curious how a vintage shop becomes a scene-defining venue? Wondering what wild thrifted finds have made it to the racks, or how a ping pong table fits into it all? You’ll have to tune in!
For upcoming shows, vintage events, or to check out their latest finds, follow Glue Man Vintage on Instagram and Facebook. Whether you’re a collector, a local, or vintage-curious, this episode is your invitation to see Kankakee’s creative side in action.
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