Where Are They Now

Guests: Tracy Burcham, Chairman of the Medinah Shriners Featival of Trees And Brian Root on the committee.

Special Guest: NY Santa

Topic: Medinah Shriners 3rd Annual Feztival of Trees in Addison, IL! The holiday magic is back!

Guest: Former Alderperson Jim Balcer

Topic: US Marine Corps 250th Birthday

This episode features Robbie Shoults, celebrity chef and third-generation owner of Bear Creek Smokehouse, Marshall Mercantile, and High Horse 1898 restaurants in East Texas. Robbie shares stories about the family legacy dating back to 1943 when his grandfather started the meat processing plant during a time of hardship. The discussion covers raising cattle, seasonal turkey sales, specialty smoked meats, including a unique method of heating turkey in a dishwasher, and the addition of a milkshake bar at one of the establishments. Robbie also talks about family life, raising six children, and community connections, including visits to Texas Longhorns on their 1,500-acre property. The episode blends personal anecdotes, barbecue culture, and practical tips for cooking and entertaining. It also features community announcements, listener call-ins, and lighthearted moments with the hosts and guests.

This episode features Dr. David Arieti, a science professor and author of Prognosis Disaster, How Climate Change and Disease Will Ruin Your Life. David discusses the challenges posed by climate change, including changing ocean currents, rising temperatures, and environmental disasters like floods and droughts. He explains scientific concepts such as El Niño and La Niña, ocean oxygen depletion, and the climate superhighway known as the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). The conversation touches on the impact of human activity on the environment, the future risks of extreme weather and ecological shocks, and practical advice for listeners to engage politically and personally in environmental stewardship. The show also includes lighthearted banter about weather memories, transportation, and everyday topics, creating a blend of education and entertainment.

This community-focused episode features Scott Koenig, Worshipful Master of Medina Lodge 1182, and Aaron Hoffman, e-commerce fraud strategist and active member of the lodge, discussing the upcoming Medina Lodge Chili Cook-Off. The guests share personal stories about joining Freemasonry, what it means to be a Mason, and the excitement and camaraderie of organizing community events like their annual chili cook-off. They discuss the value of giving back, supporting children through the Shriners, and their goal to foster fellowship and inclusivity. The show covers topics from the history of chili in Chicago to family, favorite sports teams, parade memories, and brings in calls from local clowns and longtime Masonic supporters. Local businesses, upcoming events like the Festival of Trees, and fun banter between hosts and guests give the episode warmth and humor, making it lively and engaging.

This special episode features acclaimed singer-songwriter Bruce Sudano, joining live from Italy to share stories of his remarkable career. Bruce recounts his journey from Brooklyn, his early days touring with bands like Alive and Kicking, and the vibrant New York music scene that shaped him. He talks openly about his life with legendary artist Donna Summer, their profound partnership in both music and family, and moving forward after her loss. Bruce discusses co-writing timeless hits, his solo albums—including the latest release, "Talking, Ugly, Truth-Telling, Pretty Lies"—and performing across Europe with his Italian band. Listeners hear about his musical influences, famous friends, and the inside story behind classic records, as well as Bruce’s wisdom on staying creative, keeping young at heart, and the enduring power of music to heal. The relaxed, warm conversation welcomes call-ins from fans, including a fellow songwriter, and delves into nostalgia as well as the realities of songwriting and life on the road.

This lively episode features Chicago native Laura Orico—actress, producer, and owner of a national PR firm—who shares stories from her early days in local TV and commercials through making it in Hollywood. Orico describes her journey from shy childhood performer to Second City alum, her commercial breakthrough in the iconic Pert Plus ad, and her work in shows like CSI Miami and Frank TV with Frank Caliendo. Now based in Chicago, Laura also discusses producing and pitching a new reality show, "Meet the Schultz: Food, Family, and Faith," and the meaningful legacy of her late husband’s graphic design work. The conversation delves into her public relations business, challenges and wins from auditions to client management, tips for actors, and the joy of returning to her hometown roots. Listeners enjoy warmth, humor, and inspiration, along with inside looks at the entertainment industry, family milestones, and Orico’s excitement about her upcoming baby.

This episode spotlights Michael (Mikey) Sullivan, founder of the Waste Not Want Not (WNWN) app, which is making a difference for Chicago families and small businesses by connecting users with surplus food deals from local vendors. Michael shares his dynamic career path from New York to Chicago, working in transportation, logistics, and even snowplowing—skills that eventually inspired his innovative solution to food waste and rising prices. The conversation dives into how the WNWN app helps restaurants, bakeries, and retailers find customers for excess food at steep discounts, cutting waste and feeding the community. Listeners hear testimonials about the app's value, upcoming features such as SNAP integration, and Michael’s passion for community impact. The show is full of neighborhood shout-outs, food stories, business advice, and warm humor, with a focus on the urgent importance of saving resources and feeding people—no matter the economy.

This lively and heartfelt anniversary special marks five years of "Where Are They Now?" with an extended, guest-packed episode featuring Jorianne, “The Coffee Psychic.” Art Andros, Bobby Drell, and the team welcome Jorianne back for live on-air readings, answering questions from callers and giving playful and sometimes emotional insights into the future of listeners, the show, and their own lives. The program is filled with surprises, anniversary greetings from old friends, nostalgic stories about the origins of the show, and plenty of local Chicago flavor. Special guests—including two former Chicago Honey Bears cheerleaders, the station manager, and Santa Claus himself—call in with well wishes, while longtime supporters and sponsors share memories and support. The episode also spotlights community businesses and the show’s ongoing commitment to kindness, connection, humor, and helping people through uncertain times.

This inspiring episode highlights the remarkable story of Carlos Medina Jr., a Chicago firefighter, entrepreneur, author of “Across the Lawn,” and a longtime contributor to the motion picture industry. Carlos discusses his journey from childhood in Wrigleyville to moving to Durango, Mexico, and back, sharing vivid memories of straddling two cultures, learning resilience, and facing adversity with humor and hard work. He offers personal insights into Neighborhood life in 1970s-80s Chicago, the discipline and reward of being a firefighter for over 26 years, and proudly recounts his efforts donating fire equipment and an ambulance to his hometown in Mexico. Listeners learn about Carlos’s adventures in film—working on projects like "The Untouchables" and "Dennis the Menace"—and hear his practical wisdom on entrepreneurship and giving back, including the quirky benefits of synthetic grass, community fundraising, and why he loves mentoring others. The episode is lively, heartfelt, and often funny, featuring anecdotes about family, neighborhood, and the respectful camaraderie of the firehouse.