WBGL Community Matters
95 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 2 years ago - ★★★★★ - 11 ratingsA show where we discuss a variety of issues relating to you, your family and community. Sundays at 5:45 a.m.
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
Episodes
Severe Weather
March 23, 2022 22:03 - 26 minutes - 24 MBIt's a fun and informative conversation about severe weather with storm chaser, drone pilot and WBGL Radio/WCIA TV chief meteorologist, Kevin Lighty!
Convoy Of Hope In Ukraine
March 17, 2022 17:05 - 16 minutes - 15.2 MBSara Foretz, Lead Reporter and National Spokesperson for Convoy Of Hope shares about the Ukrainian Refugee Crisis and How Convoy Of Hope, with their local partners and churches are stepping up to help men, women and children who are fleeing their country for safety and security.
Rookie Father
March 08, 2022 17:11 - 13 minutes - 12.6 MBA high percentage of first time dads were raised without a father in the home. Author Kendall Smith experienced the struggles of growing up without his dad, and so he decided to form a plan for raising his child. His plan translated to a book which helps rookie dad's find meaning and success in raising their kids.
Intermittent Fasting
March 01, 2022 18:02 - 16 minutes - 15.1 MBIntermittent Fasting is becoming known as a way to lose weight, improve your health, and simplify your lifestyle. Marisa Moon is a board Certified Health and Intermittent Fasting Coach who will share how intermittent fasting can be done and how it can benefit our health.
Generation Z
February 24, 2022 18:02 - 14 minutes - 12.9 MBDr. Jolene Erlacher is an author, speaker, college professor and founder of Leading Tomorrow. Her passion is to "equip a new generation of leaders, resource and inform experienced leaders, and develop inter-generational teams for influential and effective service in a rapidly changing culture."
A Clean And Cozy Home
February 09, 2022 18:25 - 25 minutes - 20.7 MBDo you feel like your home is not very clean or organized and there's an amount of clutter that feels overwhelming and somewhat intimidating to even approach? Becky Rapinchuk is the founder of Clean Mama. Listen as she shares about a cleaning experiment that has worked for her and now thousands of others around the world. If you need that gentle nudge and encouragement to jump in and experience the joy of a clean and organized home, then today's show is just for you.
Parenting Adult Children
February 01, 2022 19:04 - 13 minutes - 12.5 MBWhat should we keep in mind when relating to our adult children? They may be older now but still need our support, guidance and care. Brenda Huerta is a bilingual counselor with Focus on the Family, and she shares practical advice on how to best parent our adult children.
Winter Driving In The Midwest
January 19, 2022 20:15 - 15 minutes - 10.4 MBPaul Wappel is the Public Information Officer for the Illinois Department of Transportation. He discusses various aspects of maintaining roads during the winter months and measures motorists can take to be as safe as possible.
Preparing For Long-Term Care
January 12, 2022 17:01 - 16 minutes - 14.6 MBIt's difficult for families to think about long-term care for their parents or grandparents and sometimes the need for this arises when families are unprepared. Chris Orestis from Retirement Genius gives advice on how to navigate through these important decisions as a family and help our parents or grandparents have the best long-term care possible.
The Humane Society
December 21, 2021 17:45 - 25 minutes - 23.2 MBAre you looking to adopt a pet or are you looking for a certain breed of dog? Maybe you feel like things are not working out very well for the pet you adopted. What do you do? Mary Tiefenbrunn, Director of the Champaign County Humane Society gives great answers to some important questions you may have on your mind.
The Supply Chain and Economy
December 09, 2021 16:50 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MBDr. Robert Guell is a professor of economics at Indiana State University. He talks about current and recent issues impacting the supply chain and economy. He also discusses interest rates in housing and some of what economists are anticipation for 2022.
Support And Care For NICU Moms And Families
November 24, 2021 21:17 - 15 minutes - 14.3 MBJess Ethridge shares about her daughter Avonlea, their difficult journey through NICU and the incredible support of an organization called The Nest.
Food Family and Thanksgiving
November 16, 2021 17:30 - 13 minutes - 12.4 MBThe Holidays can be meaningful, fun and beautiful, yet they can often come with expectation and stress. Hannah Howard, author of Plenty, a memoir of food and family, talks about reducing the stress and expectation we often put on ourselves, she shares easy and fun food ideas and discuses how to involve others in sharing the responsibilities that come with a family and friend get-together.
Marine Sniper Steven Atkinson
November 08, 2021 18:56 - 18 minutes - 16.5 MBSteven Atkinson shares about serving in the military in Somalia, Iraq and Afghanistan. He encountered so much loss and devastation at a young age and shares about some of the challenges that followed him in the aftermath of war. Steven gives hope to veterans who find themselves dealing with post traumatic stress syndrome and various unseen battle wounds. We hope that you find today's broadcast to be inspiring and helpful. We truly want to honor all who have served or are presently serving i...
Running Is A Kind Of Dreaming
October 18, 2021 17:36 - 13 minutes - 11.9 MBJM Thompson PhD, shares how running quite literally saved his life. He now helps others as a staff psychologist at the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. He lives in San Francisco with his wife and two children. On today's show he tells his story and talks about his book and memoir, Running is a Kind of Dreaming.
Grandparenting Matters
October 07, 2021 15:51 - 30 minutes - 23 MBWould you like to have a greater impact on your grandchildren? Studies say that grandparents are the second most influential people in a child's life. David Wheeler, from the Legacy Coalition and Grand-parenting Matters Summits shares about incredible opportunities for growth and gives tools to help you in this important journey.
The Salvation Army
September 23, 2021 15:43 - 17 minutes - 16.3 MBKyle Karsten, Director of Development with the Salvation Army of Macon County, shares about the mission of the Salvation Army to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. He talks about the current challenges many families are facing and how we as communities can help to provide hope to these families in need.
Discussing Harvest and Farming
September 13, 2021 17:43 - 16 minutes - 15.1 MBBrad Uken, Champaign County Farm Bureau Director talks about what the impact of Covid 19 had on meat production plants and reminds us what farmers would like the general public to know in the harvest season.
Horses and Leadership
September 02, 2021 17:12 - 15 minutes - 11.6 MBWe can learn a lot about life and leadership, from the language of a horse. Author and nationally known leadership and horse training expert, Dr. Lew Sterrett, shares about two words, Truth and Trust, and explains how these two words are both vital to the training of a horse and are also very important to humans and our development too. He leads a fascinating ministry called, Sermon On The Mount. Dr. Sterrett trains horses while sharing life changing messages to audiences all around the world...
Childhood Friendships
August 25, 2021 17:18 - 18 minutes - 16.8 MBMany children are going back to school where they will reconnect with old friends and make new ones. There are three core needs in these friendships, and Dr. Danny Huerta, Vice President of Parenting and Youth at Focus on the Family, will bring awareness to these needs and help us understand how to communicate with our children about them.
Convoy Of Hope
August 19, 2021 17:38 - 16 minutes - 13 MBMany of us have been thinking about the crisis in Afghanistan and the 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Haiti, followed by Tropical Depression Grace. Sometimes we wonder how we can help. Sara Foretz, Lead Reporter and National Spokesperson for Convoy Of Hope, shares about the efforts that are being made to provide life saving resources there.
Rescuing Women From Human Trafficking
July 29, 2021 19:39 - 28 minutes - 19.3 MBKara Doan, Co-Founder and COO of Restoration61 shares about the work in rescuing women from human trafficking and providing restorative services and support.
Hope For Your Marriage
July 21, 2021 17:02 - 15 minutes - 11.1 MBNeeding help and encouragement in your marriage? We believe today's conversation will provide hope and inspiration. Dr. Greg Smalley, Vice President of Marriage and Family Formation at Focus on the Family, recently joined Eric and Danielle on the WBGL Afternoon Show to talk about practical steps couples can take to strengthen and restore their marriage.
New Shoes For A New Path
July 14, 2021 18:25 - 14 minutes - 10.3 MBShawn Spurrier is the Director of Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls. He shares about the on-going work of providing new shoes and socks to impoverished children around the world. Many kids miss out on important opportunities for life, such as education, simply because they do not have shoes to wear to school. Shawn shares about the difference Buckner is making for children and families and how you can be part of it, by participating in the up-coming WBGL 5k, "Run For Hope" in partnership with...
Project Diehard
July 01, 2021 21:55 - 24 minutes - 17.3 MBProject Diehard Founder and Director, Brian Gibson SFC USA Ret., shares about the mission of Project Diehard, “To bring public awareness to veteran suicide and to assist veterans in coping with the stress and difficulties in transitioning from active duty military to civilian life.”
Fellowship Of Christian Athletes
June 17, 2021 15:24 - 15 minutes - 14.1 MBFellowship of Christian Athletes Area Director, Robbie Gwinn talks about the work of FCA to encourage coaches and spiritually enrich the lives of students throughout our region. He shares exciting news about summer camps and more.
Post Graduation Job Hunt
June 07, 2021 22:56 - 18 minutes - 16.8 MBLisa Anderson, host of the nationally syndicated radio show and podcast, "Boundless" shares helpful insight into how to successfully land a job following graduation from High school or College. Boundless is a ministry of Focus on the Family.
Remembering Our Fallen Heroes
May 24, 2021 22:15 - 21 minutes - 19.3 MBToday we remember our fallen heroes and share in meaningful conversation with Sgt. Major Paul Petry of WWII.
Grilling Vegetables
May 21, 2021 19:53 - 13 minutes - 12.1 MBIt's time to get out the grill! Perhaps you're fairly adept at grilling meat but would like to know more about grilling vegetables. Today's show is for you. Steven Raichlen, who the L.A. Times describes as the Julia Child of Barbecue, shares proven tips to ensure vegetable grilling success.
Grief, Loss and Empathy
May 12, 2021 15:52 - 15 minutes - 14.5 MBDon Follis, from Pastor-to-Pastor Initiatives shares about his journey through grief and helps us better understand how grieving is an essential part of discipleship. He discusses the value of empathy towards others, and what that entails, when conversing with those who are suffering loss.
How's Your Heart?
May 06, 2021 17:30 - 13 minutes - 12.7 MBHigh blood pressure affects more than half of adults in the United States. Dr. Elizabeth Ackerson shares how high blood pressure relates to the body and what can be done to reduce it.
Children Need Love And Care
April 20, 2021 17:49 - 16 minutes - 11.9 MBApril is Child Abuse Awareness Month, and there is an uptick in reports of abuse, as children come back to school. Dr. Sharen Ford, from Focus On The Family is the Director of Foster Care and Adoption, and she shares how parents can receive help for themselves and their children.
Investing with Biblical Principles
April 13, 2021 15:39 - 15 minutes - 11.7 MB"Arthur D. Ally is founder and President of Timothy Plan, the nation’s leading Biblically based, pro-life, pro-family mutual fund group which uses stringent moral filtering criteria designed to avoid investing shareholders’ money in any company that has a pattern of contributing to the cultural pollution of society." Art shares his concerns about companies such as Facebook, and how Christians can invest in companies that reflect Biblical beliefs and values.
Everything You Need To Know About Homeschooling
April 05, 2021 17:15 - 22 minutes - 17.5 MBHomeschooling doubled in 2020 and the trend continues to rise. Lea Ann Garfias, author of Everything You Need To Know About Homeschooling, shares about homeschooling in the 21st century. If you are considering this way of education for your child, you'll find today's conversation helpful.
The Joy Of Easter
March 31, 2021 19:51 - 16 minutes - 11.8 MBJohn Fuller, from Focus On The Family, helps us see "the light of the risen Lord in a world that wants to ignore Him." It's a message of encouragement, pointing to the one who conquered death and the grave and who offers the hope of eternal life.
Single Mom Saturday
March 11, 2021 17:40 - 16 minutes - 14.7 MBSingle Mom Saturday is an important outreach of WBGL, partnering with Auto Shops and Dealerships, providing a free oil change and car wash for Single Moms. There are so many incredible stories and we touch on just a few, on today's special episode featuring Single Mom Saturday.
Unwinding Anxiety
March 09, 2021 18:57 - 13 minutes - 12.8 MBHe's been featured on 60 Minutes, his 2016 TED talk, "A Simple Way To Break A Bad Habit," has been viewed more than sixteen million times. Dr. Judson Brewer, MD, PhD, is a renowned addiction psychiatrist and neuroscientist, who shares from his book, "Unwinding Anxiety - New Science Shows How to Break the Cycles of Worry and Fear to Heal Your Mind."
Aging With Grace
February 26, 2021 19:15 - 17 minutes - 16.5 MBAging With Grace. What does this really mean? Sharon Betters, co-author of the book, Aging With Grace, joins Eric and Danielle in the Afternoons on WBGL. It's a conversation primarily for women, but men, we think you'll benefit from hearing this too.
Storm Damaged Trees and Shrubs
February 18, 2021 23:54 - 27 minutes - 25.5 MBIce and wind are damaging to the health of our trees and shrubs. Additionally, the salt we use to remove ice often has a negative impact on our shrubs. Ryan Pakau, extension educator at the University of Illinois is a Horticulture Expert, Arborist and Forester. He provides practical insight into proper methods of care regarding our trees and plants.
Possible Changes In Illinois Education
February 12, 2021 22:26 - 10 minutes - 9.85 MBThis podcast comes from a conversation on the WBGL Afternoon Show with Eric and Danielle who want parents and families to be aware of potential changes in education. Ted Dabrowski, from wirepoints.org shares thoughts based on his research about this potential shift on February 16th.
Friendshipping
February 11, 2021 18:44 - 14 minutes - 13.2 MBFriendshipping - How do we discover and maintain meaningful friendships in our busy society? Trin Garritano, friendship expert and co-author of the book, Friendshipping, joins us on the show.
Illinois Roads
February 04, 2021 19:23 - 14 minutes - 10.6 MBPaul Wappel, Public Safety Information Officer with Illinois Department of Transportation, talks about Rebuild Illinois - roadway construction projects and reminds us of what we should think about while on the roads during the winter season.
Life Issues
January 25, 2021 17:10 - 16 minutes - 14.7 MBBradley Mattes is president of Life Issues Institute. He shares about the growing awareness and enthusiasm behind support for pro-life issues and talks about how individuals and churches can get involved. To learn more about Brad Mattes and Life Issues Institute, visit lifeissues.org
Clean Mama
January 13, 2021 19:44 - 14 minutes - 12.9 MBHow do we maintain a clean, clutter free home? Many of us long for this, yet feel somewhat frustrated and stuck when it comes to cleaning, organizing and de-cluttering our home. Author and Cleaning Expert, Becky Rapinchuk gives encouragement and direction for those who wish to organize and maintain a cozy, comfortable home. Also, check out her website: www.cleanmama.com
The COVID-19 Vaccine
January 06, 2021 17:30 - 18 minutes - 17.3 MBDr. Sally Salmons, Carle’s associate chief medical officer for Medicine and Medical sub-specialties shares information and answers questions about the COVID-19 Vaccine.
Family Discipleship
December 08, 2020 17:55 - 15 minutes - 14 MBMany of us who have children in the home would agree that the past few months have been somewhat challenging and difficult for parents. What should our priorities be, in leading our family, and how do we go about achieving success in mentoring and training our children? Pastor Adam Griffin, lead pastor of East side Community Church in Dallas Texas, talks about family discipleship, from his book, "Family Discipleship, Leading Your Family Through Time, Moments and Milestones," which he co-aut...
Crime Stoppers
December 01, 2020 18:47 - 17 minutes - 15.6 MBAnonymity in reporting criminal activity in our communities is extremely important to ending crime. Often times, family or friends will not report a crime for fear of retaliation. Crime Stoppers guarantees that that they will share your tips to law enforcement, while keeping your information totally secure and anonymous. John Hecker shares the local history of this organization and how it works to keep our communities safe.
Silas
November 17, 2020 17:56 - 27 minutes - 25.6 MBGloria Martin, a Cancer Kid Mom and author of the book, "I Cry In The Shower, Loving Silas Living With Cancer," shares about her son. She talks about the ten year journey of cancer and the passing of Silas at the young age of sixteen. He taught his mom and many others so much about life, death and ultimate faith in God. Gloria shares practical ways we can support our friends and loved ones who may be experiencing grief during this up-coming holiday season.
Trooper Tracy
November 03, 2020 18:48 - 30 minutes - 27.2 MBSgt. Tracy Lillard, also known to many in Illinois as Trooper Tracy, shares about life in 2020 and what that's looked like for her family. She enjoys engaging and educating the public through social media. She's had much success in this and is now the Statewide Social Media Coordinator for the Illinois State Police. Needless to say, she loves what she does and it really shines through. We think you'll enjoy today's guest.
Most Fires Start In The Kitchen
October 21, 2020 18:21 - 19 minutes - 18.2 MBEric presents a recent scenario in his home, involving his response to what could have become a house fire. Robert Simmons, a Deputy Fire Marshal, responds and shares what Eric did correctly in this situation and perhaps what else he could have done. Also, Robert shares his concerns about recent house fires and mistakes people make in their kitchens that cause fires.