KZ Community Beat

In April, #KZCares is spotlighting the Center for Prevention of Abuse to raise awareness and support for survivors in our community. If you or someone you know needs help, call their confidential hotline at 1-800-559-SAFE (7233)

In this episode Ross sits and talks with the CEO Carol Merna as we share a sensitive but much need discussion of the services The Center provides and early warnings signs of abuse of any kind,

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AEW’s Kyle Fletcher joins The KZ Community Beat for a raw and revealing conversation! Kyle opens up about overcoming self-doubt, balancing life as a cat dad, and his journey from PWA to AEW. Plus, he shares what it meant to share the ring with his childhood hero, Jeff Hardy, and names the next AEW star to watch. Don’t miss this candid and inspiring interview!

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In this episode of the KZ Community Beat, we sit down with Estrella Diaz, a Peoria native with a passion for community and connection. Estrella opens up about her personal journey—sharing how she’s navigated depression and anxiety, found resilience, and embraced her love for music, especially through karaoke. We dive into what drives her to stay engaged with her city and how she balances her personal life with her commitment to making a difference. This conversation goes beyond titles and politics, offering a real look at the person behind the passion. You won’t want to miss this honest and inspiring dialogue!"

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We have launched a new program called KZ Cares. Each month we will spotlight a local nonprofit and shed light on their amazing work they do for our community! 

This month, we welcome Mark Linder Walk for the Mind!! Listen in as we learn how a local Peorian turned a traumatic moment into an opportunity to build a community for others who may find themselves in similar situations. 

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On this episode we sit and talk with The Mayor of Peoria, Rita Ali! We take a look at the individual who moved to Peoria at the age of 6 and began her journey of community service at 14 and never looked back. In our conversation we touch on her time in office, her accomplishments, future plans and her favorite place to grab food in town… That and more on another ep of The KZ Community Beat.

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Welcome to ep 62! This week we sat and spoke with Chuck Brown, the recipient of the Illinois Grocery Initiative Grant! Listen in as we talk about the SouthSide being a ‘Food Desert’, Chuck's journey through depression and his passion to rejuvenate the South Side... This is a story of persistence and faith!

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This week we sat and talked with the co-founder and Executive Director of Art Inc here in Peoria! Welcome Nikki Romain a story of an artistic soul on a journey of acceptance and passion. Her journey is raw, beautiful and a testament to “taking a leap of faith”

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Welcome to episode 60!! This week we sat down with Amber Bowcott! Amber has worked with the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter since 2013! Listen in as we hear Amber talk about this year's Alzheimer’s Walk in Peoria, the Alzheimer’s Association and Ross’ personal experience with a family member who was diagnosed with Alzheimer and Dementia. For more information or assistance visit alz.org

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This week, we welcome CEO and President of The Neighborhood House Julie Bonar!! For 128 years and counting The Neighborhood House has supported our community, listen in to hear all the ways they give back and Julie invites us to their BIG HOUSE PARTY!!

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This week we welcome Comedian Ali Siddiq to the pod!! Ali will be bringing his “I’ve Got A Story To Tell” comedy tour to Peoria on September 14th! Get your tickets at ticketmaster.com! Listen in as we get a deeper understanding of an authentic storyteller who prides himself on the journey he has taken! We touch on the difference between a “joke teller” and a “storyteller”, the moment in life that he decided to go independent and the small nuances he has learned about being an entertainer in front of a full crowd! You will want to hear his gold nugget at the end of this episode! A big thank you to Ali for giving us a solid hour of a wisdom filled conversation! 

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