Greg & Dan Show Interviews

Dan talks with Dave Johnson of Pearl Technology to discuss the origins of the innovative Mobile Fortify software - when it was first developed, what it does, and how it functions similarly to a fingerprint system. The technology can verify identities, flag outstanding warrants, assess whether an individual is a dangerous criminal, and even track people entering and leaving the country through airports.

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Dan talks with Jim Rule, Tazewell County Chairman, about the upcoming 2026 Tazewell County Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Forum on Thursday, January 15th from 6:30-8:00 PM at Five Points, Washington. The event will feature candidates Darren Bailey, Ted DeBrowksi, and James Mendrick, sharing their views on how to make Illinois better. Admission is free! For more information, visit www.tazewellgop.org.

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Dan talks with Joy Schwarting, Agricultural Education Teacher and FFA Advisor, about FFA — an organization that empowers students to grow leadership, career, and life skills through agricultural experiences. They discuss the needs of the greenhouse, how her teaching benefits the community, and the next generation of farmers. Joy also shares details about the upcoming Tremont FFA Alumni and Supporters Dinner Auction on January 17th at Tremont High School from 5:00–8:00 PM, featuring a silent auction all evening and a live auction starting at 7:00 PM. Tickets are $20.

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Dan talks with Paul Nolley, candidate for Illinois’ 16th Congressional District, about his background, the organizations he’s been involved with, and the work he’s already done in the community. He emphasizes youth literacy, faith-based values, and community-centered programs that support the people who need it most.

He also discusses the Habitat for Humanity model and how that approach could help address homelessness by increasing resources and support systems. He highlights the reality that many communities simply need more programs available to make change possible.

He talks about the people of the district, what sets him apart as a candidate, and why his campaign focuses on economic issues, working-class families, and policies that create real change in people’s everyday lives. He presents himself as relatable, knowledgeable, and grounded with a good sense of the world and what regular people are facing.

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Greg and Dan talk to Stacy Peterson, Communications Director for the City of Peoria, and Jenni Davis, Manager of the Peoria Public Library, about the company “Scripps,” the organization behind spelling bees across the country. They highlight how regional sponsors help send one talented student to Washington D.C. in May to compete in the national Scripps Spelling Bee. Schools are encouraged to sign up through Scripps by January 31st at www.spellingbee.com to participate.

They wrap up by sharing their own childhood spelling bee memories and the importance of supporting academic competitions for young students!

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Greg and Dan talk to Dr. Brian Curtis of OSF HealthCare about the current flu virus circulating at very high levels across Illinois, including a new strain that’s contributing to the surge. He explains both old and new prevention methods, when it’s safe to return to work after being sick, and why staying home while symptomatic is critical. Dr. Curtis also discusses rising COVID rates (up 20–30%), the possibility of having both flu and COVID at the same time, and explains what MRSA is and how it spreads.

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Greg and Dan talk to Keenan Tyler Oliphant, Tour Director of Hadestown, about the show’s opening performances tonight and Wednesday at 7:30 PM at the Prairie Home Alliance Theater inside the Peoria Civic Center. He shares his background and passion for theater, why he proudly calls himself a “theatermaker,” and what makes Hadestown such a powerful and resonant production. Keenan also highlights the unique experience of having the band live on stage with the performers, making this show truly unforgettable.

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Greg and Dan talk to Chris Setti of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council about the New Year, reflecting on the productivity of 2025 and looking ahead to what’s next. He discusses how AI is impacting their work, improving operations, and why staying current with technology will always be in demand.

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Greg and Dan talk to Dave Johnson of Pearl Technology about new trends in staying safe online as we head into the New Year. He shares simple but effective tips like changing passwords, using two-factor authentication, removing old or unused accounts, keeping software updated, and other ways to protect your personal information in an increasingly digital world.

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Greg and Dan talk to Athena Keltner, a Pekin High School senior, about the “Noteables” show choir program being shut down this year and her mission to save it for future generations. She shares why this nearly 50-year-old program is so important to students, how participation directly affects funding, and why community support is crucial to keeping the arts alive in Central Illinois.

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