PODCAST

KZ Community Beat

MWC

A Conversation with Peoria"s Community Leaders, Activists, Artists and Storytellers

society & culture places & travel

All Episodes

102:37

KZ Community Beat - President of The Peoria Public...

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/10/31

This week on Community Beat, Ross sits down with Gregory Wilson, the President of the Peoria Public Schools Board of Education, for a conversation rooted in leadership, transparency, and unity. From his beginnings as the youngest African American elected to the board to now leading it, Gregory opens up about what drives him, his passion for equity, his commitment to students, and his vision for a stronger, more connected Peoria. Together, they talk about the real challenges shaping local education,

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52:40

KZ Community Beat - GBC Autism Services

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/10/15

This episode, Jinette and Emily stop by to talk about their organization GBC Autism Services. This conversation centers around what ABA therapy is, some common misconceptions regarding Autism and why community is important and they can help you and your loved ones!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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51:10

KZ Community Beat - Peoria 50501 - The Power of The...

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/10/02

In this episode, we sit down with Melissa and Jim, co leader's of Peoria's 50501, and organizers of The No King's Protest happening here in Peoria on October 18th! We touch topics regarding the current climate politically, immigration and the fear community members are experiences and what the price of remaining silent will cost you...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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57:27

KZ Community Beat - El Morning Chou - The Voice of...

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/08/08

This episode is about representation, resistance, and real talk. Ross sits down with Christell Frausto and Andy Fremac, the host of El Morning Chou — Peoria’s first Latino-programmed radio show — for a bilingual, boundary-breaking conversation about the rise of the Latino community in Central Illinois, and the weight of being seen and heard. Together, they explore:- The power of Latino voices in local media- The growing Latino population in Peoria- The heartbreaking cancellation

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40:06

KZ Community Beat - KZ Cares - Alzheimer's...

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/07/07

Ross sits down with Daryl Carlson of the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter to talk about the disease that affects millions — including Ross’ own family. His grandmother passed in 2009 after battling Alzheimer’s, dementia, and cancer. So this isn’t just a spotlight — it’s a tribute. Together, they dive into the emotional toll this disease takes on families, how to recognize early warning signs, and the resources available right here in Peoria. They

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71:13

Orange and Black - Legacy, Loss, and the City That...

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/06/20

This episode isn’t about basketball — it’s about legacy, identity, purpose, and power. Ross sits down with filmmaker Creston Coleman to discuss Orange and Black: Beneath the Numbers, a new documentary that dives into the soul of Peoria’s Manual High School basketball dynasty. But this isn’t just nostalgia — it’s a look at what it meant to be young, Black, and full of promise in a city that’s changed around you. Creston speaks with raw honesty about

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20:21

Empowering the Next Generation – Marilyn Woods on...

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/06/11

In this episode of KZ Community Beat, Ross Martinez sits down with Marilyn Woods to talk about a powerful first for Peoria: a free girls flag football clinic sponsored by the Chicago Bears. Marilyn breaks down how the clinic came to life, what it means for local girls in grades 5–12, and how this event is about more than just football—it’s about creating a safe, exciting space for young women to play, learn, and thrive. From community volunteers to Bears swag and beyond, this is

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75:48

KZ Community Beat - BLOOM: Juneteenth, Race, and the...

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/06/06

In this powerful episode of KZ Community Beat, Ross catches up with a returning voice and friend of the pod, Brett Brooks — now two years stronger. Together, they dive into the significance of Juneteenth, the meaning behind the Miss Juneteenth Pageant, and the reality of being minority in a city still learning to face its reflection. They unpack the beautiful chaos of Peoria’s legacy, the echoes of racism locally, and the internal struggles minorities face even within media spaces. This

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30:49

KZ Community Beat - Marques Cox - From Peoria to The NFL

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/05/05

In this powerful episode of KZ Community Beat, Ross Martinez sits down with NFL offensive lineman Marques Cox, a proud son of Peoria who's now suiting up for the Denver Broncos. Marques opens up about his roots, the grind behind the glory, and what it means to carry the hopes of a community on his shoulders. From the fields of Peoria to the bright lights of the league, this is more than a football story — it's a blueprint for any young dreamer wondering if they’ve got what it takes.See

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57:56

KZ Cares May Spotlight- Crittenton Centers

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/05/01

In this episode of KZ Community Beat, Ross sits down with Brent Oest, Development Director of Crittenton Centers, to talk about how the nonprofit has been changing lives in Peoria for over 125 years. From crisis nurseries to early childhood education, Brent shares the heart, hustle, and hope behind the mission — and how you can help make a difference today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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44:29

KZ CARES April Spotlight - The Center of Prevention...

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/04/03

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,See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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33:46

KZ Community Beat AEW Kyle Fletcher

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/04/01

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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73:42

KZ Community Beat : Estrella Diaz

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/03/31

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

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42:19

KZ CARES - Mark Linder Walk For The Mind

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/03/03

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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48:53

EP 63 Mayor Rita Ali

KZ Community Beat ·

2025/02/19

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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82:06

Episode 62 CJ Harvest - Chuck Brown

KZ Community Beat ·

2024/10/16

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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84:42

EP 61 Nikki Romain of Art Inc

KZ Community Beat ·

2024/10/11

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”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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40:27

EP 60 Alzheimer's Assocition Illinois Chapter

KZ Community Beat ·

2024/10/03

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.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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28:11

EP 59 The Neighborhood House

KZ Community Beat ·

2024/09/06

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!!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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53:01

EP 58 Ali Siddiq

KZ Community Beat ·

2024/07/31

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

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