Squared Up

In Episode 70, Marion businessman and developer Jeff Mayer joins our Squared Up hosts for a conversation about his success in the automotive industry, his investments in downtown Marion and his latest venture, a unique new lounge called "1900" coming to the ground floor of the historic Goodall Building. Jeff, who owns the building and has developed several other downtown properties, shares his experiences in business and development while discussing his plans to bring new life to the space once home to longtime Marion favorites like the Gem Cafe and The Uptowner. Viewers who watch the episode on YouTube will also get an exclusive first look at "1900" and this exciting new dining experience coming to downtown Marion! As Bill and Monica’s landlord, Jeff has plenty of stories and insights to share! Hosted by Bill and Monica Swinford and directed by Tom Mann, Squared Up brings you the best people and stories from Marion and the region.

In Episode 69, Kasie Woodworth joins our Squared Up hosts for a fun-filled conversation about her experiences in stand-up comedy, performing in Chicago and taking the stage at the legendary Second City. Kasie shares stories from her comedy journey, the lessons she has learned along the way and how she uses her training and experience to help others build confidence and step outside their comfort zones. Kasie — who also happened to be in the room the first time Bill and Monica ate out together — has lots of stories to share and offers her professional opinion on our podcast. Yikes! Hosted by Bill and Monica Swinford and directed by Tom Mann, Squared Up brings you the best people and stories from Marion and the region.

In Episode 68, longtime Southern Illinois radio personality, actor, director and podcaster Ryan Patrick joins our Squared Up hosts for a fun and heartfelt conversation about his many adventures on the air and stage. Ryan shares stories from his radio career, his love of local theater and directing, and the unforgettable night he performed improv alongside Colin Mochrie while under hypnosis. He also talks about how his lifelong love of M*A*S*H led him to co-create the popular MASH Matters podcast with actor Jeff Maxwell. Along the way, the conversation turns to what matters most to Ryan — his wife, Julie, and their children, Charlie and Rylie — as he reflects on the challenges they have faced together, the strength they have found in one another and the joy of seeing his family thriving today. Hosted by Bill and Monica Swinford and directed by Tom Mann, Squared Up brings you the best people and stories from Marion and the region.

In our continuing conversation with Cody and Abby Jurgens, our Squared Up hosts hear the the steps of faith involved in becoming pastors of a new church plant and an exciting opportunity to take over a popular Marion store. Hosted by Bill and Monica Swinford and directed by Tom Mann, Squared Up brings you the best people and stories from Marion and the region.

In part 1 of a two-part episode of Swinford Media’s “Squared Up” podcast, Abby and Cody Jurgens tell how a desire for a simpler life opened the door to many adventures: Tiny Houses, entrepreneurship, parenthood, ministry and surrogacy. You will fall in love with this couple as we did and be inspired by their journey of faith. Hosted by Bill and Monica Swinford and directed by Tom Mann, Squared Up brings you the best people and stories from Marion and the region.

Allison Hasler of Southern Illinois Vacation Rentals joins us for our latest episode of “Squared Up,” the Tower Square-based podcast with Swinford Media Group owner and host Bill Swinford, his wife Monica and producer Tom Mann. Allison talks about the unique lessons learned starting and running her business. We also preview this weekend’s Freedom Sings event on Tower Square and Allison talks about her military experience and what it was like having a song written about her during the inaugural Freedom Sings two years ago. 

We are back with our third season of “Squared Up,” the Tower Square-based podcast with Swinford Media Group owner Bill Swinford, his wife Monica and producer Tom Mann. We are full of updates from behind the scenes and with the latest from downtown Marion, Illinois.

In Episode 63 of Swinford Media’s “Squared Up” podcast, we remember Brian Swinford, who passed away unexpectedly this month. We also welcome guest Steve McKeown, who is leading a drive to install a lift to take visitors to the Bald Knob Cross of Peace up for a higher view. Don’t miss this episode of our podcast, which focuses on the best and brightest around our region.

From Swinford Media Group, our “Squared Up” crew meets Emma Bartlett of Marion, who has already qualified to be called on of America’s most artistic kids! And she paints for us! She also guesses Bill’s and Tom’s ages, can you? Meanwhile, Monica shares some adventures in hormone therapy. And, as usual, we talk about the latest in downtown Marion and the region.  “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on local happenings and behind the scenes at Swinford Media Group. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,” “Coaches at Crown Brew,” or “Hometown Heat,” or listen to the podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

In this, the 61st episode of Squared Up, our panel debates the ways that social media harms us and helps us. Bill discusses his recent interview with Marlon Wayans and Monica explains her hat, which gives away her age and other personal information. Tom also shares about his recent workshop where he taught the power of video in marketing. And there’s more in this installment of the Swinford Media Group’s podcast, based in downtown Marion and available on many streaming platforms. Subscribe to this channel and never miss an episode!