In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Drew Raisor sits down with Ebenezer “EB” Gideon of Fitness Premier talk about the balance between training hard and recovering smart. EB shares how his background in sports led him to study the mechanics of the human body — and how understanding movement, injury, and stability can completely change the way people train.

From fixing pain that’s been around for years to helping clients prepare for their first powerlifting competitions, EB’s approach goes beyond workouts — it’s about healing, confidence, and longevity. The conversation covers everything from the science of recovery and the importance of stability to fitness myths, the benefits of saunas, and why mindset matters more than motivation. It’s an inspiring and practical look at how the right training philosophy can change more than just your body — it can change your life.

Send us a text

Support the show

In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor recaps the top local headlines from around Kankakee County. The popular New York City Deli is expanding to a second location in downtown Kankakee, with plans to open in spring 2026 following a $345,000 renovation supported by a city TIF incentive. Kankakee Community College announced its upcoming “Explore KCC Day,” inviting prospective students to learn about academic programs, financial aid, and campus life. In Bourbonnais, village trustees approved the purchase of a 2.19-acre parcel from Olivet Nazarene University to further development plans near The Grove. Manteno officials are weighing a proposal to apply the village’s 5% hotel tax to short-term rentals like Airbnb and Vrbo, potentially generating new tourism revenue. And finally, the March 2026 primary ballot is taking shape, with multiple contested county board races and a challenge to County Clerk Dan Hendrickson for the first time since 2018.

Send us a text

Support the show

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Drew Raisor sits down with Erica Billingsley, owner of Polaris Salon in Bourbonnais and a certified trichologist—a specialist in scalp health and hair loss. With over 25 years in the industry, Erica shares how her passion for beauty and science led her from cosmetology school to becoming one of the few trichologists in the region. She opens up about the emotional side of hair loss, how water and lifestyle affect our hair and scalp, and the therapies that can help restore both confidence and health.

From her start as a colorist to opening Polaris, Erica’s story is one of growth, education, and purpose. She discusses her commitment to creating a welcoming, educational space for clients and stylists alike—where science meets self-care and everyone can feel confident in their own skin.

Send us a text

Support the show

It’s Halloween night in Kankakee County, and the Kankakee Podcast News team is wishing everyone a safe and spooky evening filled with costumes, candy, and community fun. This week’s episode covers the official trick-or-treat times across the county, along with the latest local headlines. The Illinois State Police have turned over the results of their investigation into several Watseka Police Department officers to a special prosecutor. In Oswego, a 19-year-old Kankakee man faces multiple felony charges following a fatal stabbing at a Chick-fil-A. The Bourbonnais Township Park District celebrates the retirement of longtime IT administrator Frank Cianci after 12 years of service, and the Village of Bradley prepares for its 40th annual Lighted Christmas Parade, themed “A Christmas Jubilee on Gingerbread Lane.” Finally, Manteno police arrest a man accused of driving his vehicle toward two local teens.

Send us a text

Support the show

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Drew Raisor sits down with Keegan Mraz, co-owner of four Fitness Premier locations, to talk about the mindset, discipline, and hard work behind building both muscle and a business. From his start as an electrician fresh out of high school to becoming a multi-club owner, Keegan shares how fitness transformed his confidence, energy, and purpose — and why he’s passionate about helping others experience the same change.

He opens up about the lessons learned from long hours, tough setbacks, and leading a team built on care, honesty, and consistency. The conversation dives deep into what it really takes to create a lasting fitness journey, from nutrition and mindset to the power of simply showing up. It’s an inspiring look at how self-improvement inside the gym can build strength in every area of life.

Send us a text

Support the show

This week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News highlights some of the biggest stories around the county as of Friday, October 24, 2025. With Halloween right around the corner, Kankakee County is offering a range of festive activities, from the thrills of Rietveld’s Haunted Corn Maze in Bourbonnais to the family-friendly fun of Halloween Downtown Kankakee. Local officials are also investigating an early morning fire at an abandoned building on South Greenwood Avenue, which is believed to have been deliberately set. In other news, the Kankakee River Metropolitan Agency and the City of Kankakee have finalized a $100,000 settlement with former KRMA Executive Director Richard Simms and his daughter, closing a years-long fraud case. Meanwhile, Kankakee School District 111 celebrated the opening of its new outdoor fitness court behind Kankakee High School, promoting health, wellness, and free public access for the community.

Send us a text

Support the show

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Bill Yohnka welcomes a heartfelt lineup of storytellers for a special evening at the historic B. Harley Bradley House, Frank Lloyd Wright’s first Prairie-style home. With “home” as the night’s theme, each storyteller takes the audience on a powerful journey of what that word truly means—from rediscovering roots after years away, to finding faith and hope in unexpected places, to breaking family cycles and building safer, stronger homes for the next generation.

The night also explores the deeper emotional layers of home—how it can be a physical space, a memory, or even a person. Set against the stunning backdrop of one of Kankakee’s most iconic landmarks, this Yarn Factory Live captures stories of healing, belonging, and transformation that remind us that home is not always where we start, but where we finally find peace.

Send us a text

Support the show

In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor recaps the top local stories from around Kankakee County. A grain bin collapse in Martinton spilled tons of corn and caused power outages for more than 160 Ameren customers, though no injuries were reported. The Kankakee County Board recognized October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month alongside Harbor House leaders, highlighting over 45 years of service to local survivors. Kankakee police recovered multiple firearms and arrested three suspects during a search on South Greenwood Avenue. In Bradley, a high school student was taken into custody after allegedly threatening to bring a weapon to school, prompting a strong police response. And finally, reports of ICE operations in Kankakee sparked fear and confusion among residents, leading some families and businesses to temporarily close as officials reiterated local law enforcement’s limited involvement.

Send us a text

Support the show

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

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