Kankakee Podcast

Pathfinder
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  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

A podcast about the people and places of Kankakee County, IL. 

  1. Cleaning Up and Leveling Up: How Jen Norton Built “All You Need Cleaning Services”

    2 DAYS AGO

    Cleaning Up and Leveling Up: How Jen Norton Built “All You Need Cleaning Services”

    In this episode of Kankakee Podcast, Drew Raisor sits down with Jen Norton, owner of All You Need Cleaning Services, to talk about her inspiring journey from 22 years as a 911 dispatcher to running her own thriving cleaning business in Kankakee County. Jen shares how a difficult season in her life became the push she needed to pursue her passion, turning a side job into a full-time business that now supports a growing team and dozens of local clients. She opens up about the challenges of leadership, learning to delegate, and finding balance between work and life while staying true to her values. From supporting families through tough times to helping homes feel whole again, Jen’s story is one of perseverance, heart, and community impact. Send us a text Support the show

    20 min
  2. Baker & Taylor Closure, Nicor Gas Rate Debate, Kankakee Police Promotion, Sunrise Center Event, Riverfront Park Plans

    5 DAYS AGO

    Baker & Taylor Closure, Nicor Gas Rate Debate, Kankakee Police Promotion, Sunrise Center Event, Riverfront Park Plans

    In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor covers the top local stories from around Kankakee County. Baker & Taylor has closed its Momence distribution center, leaving hundreds unemployed as officials work to assist displaced workers. Consumer advocates are challenging Nicor Gas’ proposed rate hike, calling for reductions to protect customers. The Kankakee Police Department promoted Jose Diaz to sergeant, marking an important career milestone and increasing local representation. Sunrise Center Animal Rescue is gearing up for its Trunk-or-Treat event to raise awareness and support for pet adoptions. Meanwhile, Bourbonnais continues to refine its Riverfront Park master plan following strong community input and a major land donation. Send us a text Support the show

    7 min
  3. #222: Supporting Life at Every Stage: Our Aging Services’ Mission of Compassion

    6 OCT

    #222: Supporting Life at Every Stage: Our Aging Services’ Mission of Compassion

    In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, Drew Raisor sits down with Leslee Schafer and Megan Turner, the compassionate founders of Our Aging Services. Together, they’re on a mission to guide both seniors and families of individuals with special needs through some of life’s most challenging transitions. Drawing from their own personal experiences—a daughter on the autism spectrum and a son with complex medical needs—Leslee and Megan have built an organization that helps others navigate the overwhelming systems of Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, long-term care, and disability resources. Throughout the conversation, they share heartfelt insights about advocating with kindness, why early planning is crucial, and how small acts of compassion can make a life-changing difference. They also discuss their innovative community project, the Café of Mistaken Orders, which creates a space for understanding and empathy toward those living with dementia. From helping families “age out” of school services to helping older adults “age on” with dignity, this episode shines a light on the power of connection, advocacy, and care across generations Send us a text Support the show

    28 min
  4. St. Anne Pumpkin Fest, McCarty Racing Title, Fortitude Shelter Plan, Animal Shelter Needs, ComEd Rates

    3 OCT

    St. Anne Pumpkin Fest, McCarty Racing Title, Fortitude Shelter Plan, Animal Shelter Needs, ComEd Rates

    In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor shares the top stories from around the county. Bourbonnais driver Austin McCarty captured his second straight Pro Late Model championship at Kankakee County Speedway in a season marked by family tragedy. Fortitude Community Outreach announced a new “hotel shelter model” for the winter after the city denied its request to operate an overnight shelter on East Court. The annual St. Anne Pumpkin Festival returns with dozens of local vendors and fall favorites. Animal shelters in both Kankakee and Iroquois counties are struggling with urgent volunteer and donation needs. Finally, the Citizens Utility Board is warning ComEd customers of winter electricity rate hikes averaging 10–15 percent. Send us a text Support the show

    7 min
  5. #221: Turning Struggles Into Strength: Hollie Erickson’s Journey with Bedford

    29 SEPT

    #221: Turning Struggles Into Strength: Hollie Erickson’s Journey with Bedford

    In this episode of Kankakee Podcast, Drew sits down with Hollie to talk about her inspiring journey of resilience, faith, and transformation. From facing unexpected challenges in life to discovering strength through fitness and her relationship with God, Hollie opens up about what it means to keep moving forward even when the road gets tough. She shares how working out became more than just exercise — it became a lifeline for mental clarity, emotional healing, and building confidence. Hollie also talks about the importance of surrounding yourself with the right community, setting goals, and keeping faith at the center of it all. This heartfelt conversation is a reminder that no matter where you’re at, it’s never too late to choose joy, embrace growth, and keep pressing on. If you would like to give here is the Link!! https://e.givesmart.com/events/Kje/ Send us a text Support the show

    26 min
  6. Manteno Oktoberfest, Bradley Clerk Resigns, District 111 Appointment, BBCHS Budget, Momence Cold Case

    26 SEPT

    Manteno Oktoberfest, Bradley Clerk Resigns, District 111 Appointment, BBCHS Budget, Momence Cold Case

    In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor covers the latest stories from around the county. Manteno’s 27th annual Oktoberfest kicked off at Heritage Park, bringing live music, food, and family fun through the weekend. In Bradley, Village Clerk Kelli Brza resigned as she prepares to relocate to California, with Deputy Clerk Kym Nelson filling in until a replacement is named. The Kankakee School District 111 board voted 5–2 to officially appoint James Henderson as Assistant Superintendent of People Services after serving in the interim role for nearly a year. The Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School District 307 board passed its Fiscal Year 2026 budget, projecting a surplus while allocating funds for the $70 million “Building Better” project. Finally, Illinois State Police are renewing calls for information in the unsolved 2007 double homicide of Pamela Branka and Paul Jones at the Momence Burger King, urging anyone with knowledge to come forward. Send us a text Support the show

    7 min
  7. #220: Hair, Hustle, and Heart: Adelynn McBurnie’s Journey Behind the Chair

    22 SEPT

    #220: Hair, Hustle, and Heart: Adelynn McBurnie’s Journey Behind the Chair

    In this episode of Kankakee Podcast, Drew sits down with Adelynn McBurnie — one of Kankakee County’s most sought-after hairstylists. From her early start in cosmetology school at just 16, to building a loyal clientele and finding her home at Polaris Salon, Adelynn shares her story of passion, perseverance, and personal growth. She opens up about what drew her to the beauty industry, the lessons learned along the way, and why building genuine relationships with her clients matters just as much as great hair. Adelynn also talks about balancing creativity, confidence, and the business side of being her own boss — all while creating a space where clients feel seen and cared for. Whether you’re chasing a dream, building a business, or just love a good transformation story, this conversation will leave you inspired. Send us a text Support the show

    24 min
  8. Scarecrow Festival Returns, Faith Baptist Radio Tower Approved, Bourbonnais Shots Fired, Let’s Ketchup Family Fest, and BBCHS Board Appointment

    19 SEPT

    Scarecrow Festival Returns, Faith Baptist Radio Tower Approved, Bourbonnais Shots Fired, Let’s Ketchup Family Fest, and BBCHS Board Appointment

    This week on Kankakee Podcast News, host Drew Raisor takes you through the latest headlines from around the county. The 12th annual Scarecrow Festival kicks off at Perry Farm Park with more than 120 scarecrows, vendors, and a new Fall Art Stroll. Bourbonnais trustees approved a zoning variance for Faith Baptist Church to build an 80-foot radio tower for FM broadcasts, despite concerns about possible signal interference. Bourbonnais police are investigating a midnight fight on Stratford Drive that ended with shots fired into the air but no reported injuries. The non-profit Let’s Ketchup is set to host a free Family Festival at Adventure Commons, offering games, crafts, music, and food while supporting local schools and families. And in school news, Samantha Czako has been appointed to the Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School District 307 board, filling the seat left vacant by former president Justin Caldwell. Send us a text Support the show

    6 min
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About

A podcast about the people and places of Kankakee County, IL. 

Information

  • Creator
    Pathfinder
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    342
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Pathfinder
  • Show Website
    Kankakee Podcast
  • Provider

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