PodBN

Election Edition: Jordan Baker (Ward 6) Mar 11, 2023

Jordan is running for Bloomington's Ward 6.

Thanks to our sponsor: Lil Beaver Brewery

Theme song by Wildermore

Election Edition: Cody Hendricks (Ward 6) Mar 11, 2023

Cody is running for Bloomington's Ward 6.

Thanks to our sponsor: Lil Beaver Brewery

Theme song by Wildermore

Election Edition: John Danenberger (Ward 4) Mar 10, 2023

John is running for Bloomington Ward 4

Thanks to our sponsor: Lil Beaver Brewery

Theme song by Wildermore

Election Edition: Donna Boelen (Ward 2) Mar 08, 2023

Donna is running unopposed for Bloomington ward 2.

Thanks to our sponsor: Lil Beaver Brewery

Theme song by Wildermore

Election Edition: Jenna Kearns (Ward 1) Mar 06, 2023

Interview with Jenna Kearns, running in Ward 1 unopposed to fill the remaining term of the previous council member.

Thanks to our sponsor: Lil Beaver Brewery

Theme song by Wildermore

Election Edition: 2023 Introduction Mar 04, 2023

Some context on what to expect from the 2023 Election Edition Episodes

Thanks to our sponsor: Lil Beaver Brewery

Theme song by Wildermore

Ep. 57: Bloomington City Council (Donna Boelen) Sep 05, 2022

Donna talks about her experiences on City Council, with a focus on where she has attempted to implement a Strong Towns philosophy. Topics include how she became engaged in local politics, what motivated her to run for office, infill development, how to build wealth in our community, downtown investment, and more.

Links to some documents we discussed:

Summary of Cost of Growth Report

Comprehensive Plan: Fiscal Impact Analysis

Thanks to our sponsor: Lil Beaver Brewery

Theme song by Wildermore

Ep. 56: Bloomington Revivalist (Noah Tang) Aug 21, 2022

We're back! Noah Tang stops by to talk about how he hopes the recently formed Bloomington Revivalists can apply Strong Towns principles to promote historical preservation, encourage infill development, and strengthen community.

Learn more by joining the Bloomington Revivalist Facebook group.

Thanks to our sponsor: Lil Beaver Brewery

Theme song by Wildermore

Ep. 55: I AM Woman (Danielle Martorana) Mar 06, 2022

Danielle started I AM Woman to inspire women to pursue their dreams and do what brings them joy. Hear about her story and her plans.

To learn more, find "I AM Woman" on all social media.

Theme song by Wildermore

PodBN Check-in 2/20/22 (with Erik Rankin) Feb 22, 2022

Returning champion Erik Rankin stops by to talk about a little bit of everything. (It would have been even more of some things, but Erik's daughter made him leave.)

Theme song by Wildermore

Ep. 54: Save the Train (David Parker) Feb 02, 2022

David has an antique electric train car in his backyard. How did it get there? What is he going to do with it?

Find out more at Sleeping Car Illinois on Facebook

Theme song by Wildermore

Ep. 53: Eatology (Donovan Muldrow, Kristin Rae) Jan 10, 2022

Eatology is a locally-sourced meal preparation service. A great example of people doing big things in Bloomington-Normal. And we hit a record for most shout outs per minute.

Find them online (www.eatology.ventures) and on social media

A to Z's Catering and Parties

The Athlete Factory

Blo-No Curbside Restaurants Facebook group

___

Theme song by Wildermore

Ep. 52: Chuck Erickson Dec 12, 2021

Chuck Erickson stops by to chat about his experiences as a County board member and former Republican Party Chair. Topics include his most memorable accomplishments, the need for respect and civility in politics, the importance of local political involvement, and how to get past the boundaries created by national issues.

Theme song by Wildermore

PodBN Check-in 5/5/2021 Dec 06, 2021

Justin and Tyson discuss our opinions about everything, including our opinions about the problem with having opinions about everything. Also self-improvement, a few local issues, and book recommendations!

Books:

Ryan Holiday - The Obstacle is the Way

David Alexrod - Believer

Tim Grover - Winning: Unforgiving Race to Greatness

Shirzad Chamine - Positive Intelligence

CS Lewis - Great Divorce PodBN App of the Month: Reading List Theme song by Wildermore

Ep. 51: Abby Lyons, Adam Ghantos (Yoga Lab) Nov 14, 2021

Justin talks with the Yoga Lab owners about what it means to build a community around a vision for a business. It involves coffee and scones.

Yoga Lab website: www.theyogalab.org

Theme song by Wildermore

Ep. 50: 11/7/21 Kelby Cumpston Nov 07, 2021

Jeremy joins the pod to catch up with Kelby, who has continued to pay close attention to Bloomington City Council since his ward 7 run last year. He's started a blog called BloNotes where he provides commentary on the upcoming agendas. He fills us in on the goals of the blog, and we chat about some of the recent issues before the council: filling the ward 6 seat and sewer repairs. We also talk about affordable housing, a many-faceted problem in which he has considerable expertise. And of course we mention Strong Towns... a lot.

Some links:

BloNotes - https://www.facebook.com/BloNotes

McLean County Regional Planning Commission - https://mcplan.org/plans-and-studies/neighborhoods-and-housing

Theme song by Wildermore

Ep. 49: Jay Tetzloff (Miller Park Zoo) Oct 17, 2021

Jay Tetzloff is the Superintendent of the Milner Park Zoo. He explains how the zoo leverages its small size to create an intimate experience. We also talk about all our favorite animals, and what plans might materialize for the zoo in the future. Plus more than you ever probably wanted to know about the toileting habits of sloth.

Learn more by following the zoo on social media or at their website millparkzoo.org

Music by Wildermore

Ep. 48: Bloomington Spice Works Oct 03, 2021

Rubin and Don own Bloomington Spice Works, a spice store in Downtown Bloomington. They explain how they got started, what they sell now, and what they have planned for the future.

Theme song by Wildermore

Ep. 47: Keep Your Day Job/PodBN Crossover (with Ed See) Sep 22, 2021

Ed is the host of the Keep Your Day Job podcast, which also focuses on interviewing people in Bloomington-Normal. In this episode, he and Tyson discuss the similarities and differences in their shows, getting a bit introspective on why they enjoy recording themselves talking to people. They also take the mandatory divergence into the local politics scene.

Theme song by Wildermore

Ep 46: 9/19/21 Erik Rankin Sep 19, 2021

Hear how Erik has been using COVID chaos to fuel serious self-improvement. The first step towards improving the world is improving yourself.

Theme song by Wildermore

Ep. 45: Board Game Geeks (with Jamie Mathy) Sep 06, 2021

Jamie Mathy is the owner of Red Raccoon Games. He and Tyson (a fellow game enthusiast) review the 5000 year history of gaming, the rise of American-style games in the 1900s, the more recent emergence of modern/European games in the 2000s, game recommendations, Jamie's opinion on the worst game ever made, the actual rules of Monopoly, how not to yuck someone's yum, and more.

Stop by Red Raccoon Games on 309 N Main St in Bloomington so their expert staff can help match a game to your interests. Or visit them online at www.redraccoongames.com.

Theme song by Wildermore

Ep. 44. 8/22/21 Brad McMillan Aug 22, 2021

Brad McMillan is the Executive Director of the Institute for Principled Leadership in Public Service at Bradley University. He is also the co-chairman of CHANGE Illinois, which advocates for fair redistricting processes at the state level. We discuss his work in these areas, including his idea of a “moderate majority”.

Jeremy Kelley co-hosts

Theme song by Wildermore

Ep 43. 8/8/2021 Steve Suess Aug 08, 2021

Steve drops by to talk COVID restrictions, the open Bloomington ward 6 council seat, the life of a talk radio host, local Libertarian party projects, and more.

Theme song by Wildermore.

Ep 42. 8/1/2021 Lynden McGriff Aug 02, 2021

Lynden McGriff has been a pharmacist for almost 20 years. He shares his experience in retail pharmacy, long-term care in Kindred Hospital Peoria, and administering COVID vaccinations.

We also discuss his wife's new children's therapy facility, Ivy Rehab for Kids.

Theme song by Wildermore.

Ep. 41: 7/11/21 Monica Bullington Jul 11, 2021

Monica Bullington is an award-winning Bloomington-Normal RE/MAX Rising realtor. She talks about the real estate market since 2020 turned everything upside down. Also city planning and how city amenities can impact home prices.

Theme song by Wildermore.

Ep 40: 6/27/21 Jeremy Kelley, Chad Bevers Jun 27, 2021

Jeremy drops by LIl' Beaver to catch up. We talk about the last election cycle, soccer, parking maximums, and books. Then we grab Lil' Beaver founder Chad Bevers to hear how business is going and what he has planned in the next couple months.

Plus a new theme song by local band Wildermore!

Like their Facebook page to see where they're playing.

Ep 39: 6/13/21 Karl Goeke Jun 13, 2021

Local Spanish teacher (and fellow Lil' Beaver fan) Karl Goeke reflects on his experiences as a both an educator and parent during the last year. We also discuss his time in union leadership, including lobbying in DC.

Ep 38: 5/31/21 (Lizzy Johnston, Julie Emig) May 31, 2021

Lizzy stops by again to give us a quick update on the county redistricting process. Then she and Julie Emig (Bloomington City Council) chat about our community's planning processes, and what we should be looking to progress towards in the near future.

Thanks to our sponsor Lil Beaver Brewery.

Ep 37: County Redistricting part 2 (Josh Barnett, Lizzy Johnston, Pat Cortesi) May 17, 2021

The conversation about redistricting continues with a couple other special guests.

Thanks to our sponsor Lil Beaver Brewery

Ep 37: County Redistricting part 1 (Josh Barnett) May 17, 2021

McLean County Board member Josh Barnett has been in the news recently speaking strongly about his views on the county's redistricting process. He shares with us the series of events which led him to take those actions.

Thanks to our sponsor Lil Beaver Brewery.

Ep 36: 4/26/21 (Amelia Buragas) Apr 26, 2021

Amelia is back by popular demand to talk all things Bloomington-Normal. We reflect on the recent election, the long term impacts of COVID on how we live and work, the housing market, and what books we've been reading.

We mention a study of the risks associated with COVID, one summary of which can be found here: https://www.brookings.edu/research/how-misinformation-is-distorting-covid-policies-and-behaviors/

Thanks to our sponsor Lil Beaver Brewery. Check them out at lilbeaverbrewery.com or at 5 Finance Drive.

Ep 35: April 11, 2021 Apr 13, 2021

What do you call two guys mansplaining simultaneously? A podcast! Justin and Tyson meet up at Lil Beaver to dissect election results and what they hope to see happen in the next 4 years.

If you like what you hear, please consider supporting us on Patreon. Go to patreon.com and search for "PodBN".

Bloomington Firefighters Union Endorsed Candidate Forum: Election Edition 2021 Bonus Episode Apr 01, 2021

Tyson moderates a forum with the three candidates endorsed by the Bloomington Firefighters Union: Jamie Mathy (ward 1), Nick Becker (ward 5), and Mollie Ward (ward 7).

You can see the video on Facebook at "Bloomington Firefighters Union - IAFF Local 49".

2021 Election Edition Debrief Part 2 Mar 15, 2021

Justin, Jeremy, and Tyson reflect on their experiences recording the Election Edition podcast. Topics include election predictions, reflecting on the goals of the podcast, campaign strategy, our biggest surprises during the interviews, power/money dynamics with local organizations, what we look for in elected officials, our impressions of the candidates and of course lots of opinions on local issues.

Special guests:
Justin Bellas, Lil Beaver Co-Owner

Patrick Cortesi, Chair of the McLean County Democrats

Recorded on site at Lil Beaver Brewery!

2021 Election Edition Debrief - Part 1 Mar 15, 2021

Justin, Jeremy, and Tyson reflect on their experiences recording the Election Edition episodes. Topics include election predictions, reflecting on the goals of the podcast, campaign strategy, our biggest surprises during the interviews, power/money dynamics with local organizations, what we look for in elected officials, our impressions of the candidates, and of course lots of opinions on local issues.

Special guests:
Rhys Shaffer, Lil Beaver Executive Chef

Patrick Cortesi, Chair of the McLean County Democrats

Recorded on site at Lil Beaver Brewery!

Kevin McCarthy (Normal Town Council): Election Edition 2021 Mar 12, 2021

Interview with Town of Normal council candidate Kevin McCarthy.

Municipal elections are April 6.

You can find more information online at www.mccarthyforcouncil.com and @councilmanmccarthy on Facebook.

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Willie Halbert (Blm Ward 3): Election Edition 2021 Mar 11, 2021

Interview with Bloomington ward 3 candidate Willie Halbert.

Municipal elections are April 6.

You can find more information on Facebook at "Willie Holton Halbert for Bloomington City Council Ward 3".

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Jamie Mathy (Bloomington Ward 1): Election Edition 2021 Mar 10, 2021

Interview with Bloomington ward 1 candidate Jamie Mathy.

Municipal elections are April 6.

You can find more information online on Facebook at "Alderman Jamie Mathy".

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Scott Preston (Normal Town Council): Election Edition 2021 Mar 09, 2021

Interview with Normal town council candidate Scott Preston.

Municipal elections are April 6.

You can find more information on Facebook at "Councilman Scott Preston".

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Mboka Mwilambwe (Bloomington Mayor): Election Edition 2021 Mar 06, 2021

Interview with Bloomington mayoral candidate Mboka Mwilambwe.

Municipal elections are April 6.

You can find more information online at www.mbokaformayor.com.

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

AJ Zimmerman (Normal Town Council): Election Edition 2021 Mar 04, 2021

Interview with Town of Normal council candidate AJ Zimmerman.

Municipal elections are April 6.

You can find more information online on Facebook at "AJ Zimmerman for Normal".

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Karl Sila (Normal Town Council): Election Edition 2021 Mar 02, 2021

Interview with Town of Normal council candidate Karl Sila.

Municipal elections are April 6.

You can find more information online at voteforkarl.org on Facebook at "Karl Sila for Normal Town Council".

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Sheila Montney (Blm Ward 3): Election Edition 2021 Feb 26, 2021

Interview with Bloomington ward 3 candidate Sheila Montney.

Municipal elections are April 6.

You can find more information at...

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Tom Crumpler (Blm Ward 9): Election Edition 2021 Feb 25, 2021

Interview with Bloomington Ward 9 candidate Tom Crumpler.

Municipal elections are April 6.

You can find more information at...

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Mike Straza (Bloomington Mayor): Election Edition 2021 Feb 24, 2021

Interview with Bloomington mayoral candidate Mike Straza.

Municipal elections are April 6.

You can find more information on Facebook at "Straza for Mayor" or online at strazaformayor.com.

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Jackie Gunderson (Blm Mayor): Election Edition 2021 Feb 24, 2021

Interview with Bloomington mayoral candidate Jackie Gunderson.

Municipal elections are April 6.

You can find more information on Facebook at "Jackie Gunderson for Mayor" or online at http://peoplefirstcoalition.com/jackieforblm

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Steve Harsh (Normal Town Council): Election Edition 2021 Feb 23, 2021

Interview with Town of Normal council candidate Steve Harsh.

Municipal elections are April 6.

You can find more information on Facebook at "Steve Harsh for Normal Council".

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Marc Tiritilli (Normal Mayor): Election Edition 2021 Feb 22, 2021

Interview with Town of Normal mayoral candidate Marc Tiritilli.

Municipal elections are April 6.

You can find more information on FB at Marc Tiritilli for Mayor and online at marcformayor.com.

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Chris Koos (Normal Mayor): Election Edition 2021 Feb 22, 2021

Interview with Normal mayoral candidate Chris Koos.

Municipal elections are April 6.

You can find more information on Facebook at "Mayor Chris Koos" and online at electchriskoos.com.

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Coretta Jackson (Blm Ward 7): Election Edition 2021 Feb 19, 2021

Interview with Bloomington ward 7 candidate Coretta Jackson.

Make your plans to vote in the ward 7 primary on February 23 and the municipal elections on April 6.

You can find more information on Facebook at "Coretta Jackson for Ward 7" and online at corettajackson.wixsite.com/my-site.

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Chemberly Cummings (Normal Town Council): Election Edition 2021 Feb 18, 2021

Make your plans to vote in the municipal elections on April 6.

You can find more information at

Chemberly Cummings, Town of Normal
chemberlycummings@gmail.com

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Brad McMillan (Normal Town Council): Election Edition 2021 Feb 16, 2021

Make your plans to vote in the municipal elections on April 6.

You can find more information at

Brad McMillan for Normal Town Council (FB)
https://bradmcmillan.nationbuilder.com/
bradmcmillan505normal@gmail.com

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Ep. 34 PodBN Chat 2/19/21 (Amelia Buragas) Feb 13, 2021

Amelia joins Justin and Tyson to talk local issues, municipal elections, and the future of Bloomington-Normal.

Patrick Lawler (Blm Ward 5): Election Edition 2021 Feb 11, 2021

Interview with Bloomington ward 5 candidate Patrick Lawler

Make your plans to vote in the municipal elections on April 6.

You can find more information at

lawlerforward5@gmail.com
Lawler for Ward 5 (FB, Instagram, Twitter)

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Nick Becker (Blm Ward 5): Election Edition 2021 Feb 10, 2021

Interview with Bloomington ward 5 candidate Nick Becker

Make your plans to vote in the municipal elections on April 6.

You can find more information at

nickbeckerward5@comcat.net
Nick Becker Ward 5

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Kelby Cumpston (Blm Ward 7): Election Edition 2021 Feb 09, 2021

Interview with Bloomington ward 7 candidate Kelby Cumpston

Make your plans to vote in the ward 7 primary on February 23 and the municipal elections on April 6.

You can find more information on social media at "Kelby for Ward 7".

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Mollie Ward (Blm Ward 7): Election Edition 2021 Feb 08, 2021

Interview with Bloomington ward 7 candidate Mollie Ward

Make your plans to vote in the ward 7 primary on February 23 and the municipal elections on April 6.

You can find more information at

Mollie Ward for Bloomington City Council Ward 7
friendsofmollieward7@gmail.com

Thank you to our sponsor: Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club

Ep. 33 Trish Nesby (Arrived Men's Salon) Jan 17, 2021

The first in-person PodBN in many months! We love highlighting small businesses, especially in downtown. Trish tells us about how she became the owner of Arrived Men’s Salon, the help she’s received along the way, and what you can expect when you come in for a service.

Visit them at 514 N Main St in downtown Bloomington, next to Common Ground.

You can find more information online at arrivedmenssalon.com and also on all the major social media platforms. Follow them on Facebook to hear about special events and deals.

Also check out the massage services available on site by going to abalancedapproach-wellness.com.

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 32: Lisa Kitchens, Karry Rich (Pet Central Helps) Jan 11, 2021

Find out what it takes to facilitate over 900 pet adoptions in one year. Lisa Kitchens (Founder and Executive Director) and Karry Rich (Foster Coordinator) from Pet Central Helps. We discuss the origins of the organization, the experience of fostering, medical interventions, and some notable success stories.

You can find more information online at petcentralhelps.org of on Facebook at Pet Central Helps.

Lisa also recommends the book “Redemption: The Myth of Pet Overpopulation & The No Kill Revolution in America” by Nathan Winograd.

Thank you to our sponsor Blooms Coffee Bar (bloomscoffeebar.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

PodBN Check-In 12/6/20 (with Erik Rankin) Dec 08, 2020

Returning champion Erik Rankin holds the record as most downloaded PodBN guest. He has also done other things. But now he's moved onto the next phase of his life. We learn about why Erik's moved away from politics, geek out on the brutal reality of campaign management, wax philosophical about the meaning of life, and make significant advances towards solving all the world's problems.

Thank you to our sponsor Bloom's Coffee Bar. Visit them at 1209 1/2 Towanda Avenue and check out their menu at bloomscoffeebar.com.

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 31 Graduated Tax Amendment (Jill Blair, Steve Suess) Oct 19, 2020

Jill Blair and Steve Suess discuss the cases for and against the proposed Illinois graduated tax amendment on the ballot in November.

Thank you to our sponsors

Blooms Coffee Bar (bloomscoffeebar.com)
Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 30 Ryan Whitehouse (Connect Transit) Oct 06, 2020

Ryan Whitehouse is the chair of the Connect Transit Board of Trustees. The self-described "pro-transit conservative" talks about the value of transit systems, the need for a Downtown Bloomington transit station, and what motivates him to keep volunteering for this cause.

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

E. 29 Adam Richards (Farrell's eXtreme Bodyshaping) Sep 22, 2020

Adam Richards discusses his journey from skeptic to general manager of Farrell's eXtreme Bodyshaping. Hear about how they set themselves apart from other gyms and what steps they're taking during COVID.

Learn more and sign up for the next 10-week challenge starting October 11 by going to: http://joinfxb.com/bloomington

Located at 1804 S. Hershey Rd.

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

PodBN Check-in 8/8/2020 Aug 10, 2020

Justin and Tyson talk about their quarantine reading list, Downtown (shocker), the proposed combining of the Bloomington Economic Development and Community Development departments, virtual schooling, and whatever else came to mind.

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 28 Black Lives Matter (Cinnamon Porter, Radiance Campbell) Jul 11, 2020

A conversation worth having.

Find out more about Black Lives Matter Blono on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Email: BlackLivesMatterBlono@gmail.com.

You can also attend the next meeting on Sunday, July 12 at 6pm at the Miller Park Pavilion.

Click here to read the BLM Blono Demands.

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

PodBN Check-In 7/3/2020 (with Steve Seuss) Jul 04, 2020

Justin, Steve, and Tyson chat about whatever comes to mind on local issues, making the tenuous assumption that people actually want to hear about what we think. We meander around topics like COVID, Defund the Police, Streets, and Boycott lists.

We mention this article on routine traffic stops: Why Routine Traffic Stops Don't Make Us Safer

You can also check out The Steve Suess Show on Cities 92.9 Saturdays from 5-7pm.

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

COVID-5: Jeanne Hamilton (Bloomington Public Library) Jun 15, 2020

Jeanne Hamilton, Director of the Bloomington Public Library, shares how the library has been adapting to COVID-19. We also chat about how this experience might impact the long-awaited library expansion project.

See the latest from the library on their website:

https://www.bloomingtonlibrary.org

Support someone else doing a big thing in Bloomington-Normal:

Eastview Christian Church food pantry

https://eastview.church/ministries/outreach/local/profile/food-pantry-1

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

PodBN Check-In 5/11/2020 (with Jeremy Kelley) May 09, 2020

Looking ahead at the 5/11/20 Bloomington Council Meeting and reopening McLean County.

Council Agenda and packet:http://bloomingtonil.iqm2.com/Citizens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=1&ID=1073&Inline=True

Tyson riffs on "economic gardening" for a while:

https://icma.org/articles/article/seven-steps-developing-economic-gardening-implementation-strategy

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

COVID-4: Pastor David Glesne (St. John's Lutheran Church) Apr 21, 2020

Pastor Dave talks about the practical and spiritual lessons of this experience, especially during the Easter season.

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

COVID-3: Justin M. Boyd Apr 08, 2020

Justin discusses the impact that the pandemic has had on him and other small businesses in the community.

We have a bit of discussion about investments. There are our personal observations and should not be interpreted as investment advice.

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

COVID-2: McLean County Museum of History Apr 05, 2020

Candace, Rachael, and Hannah discuss how the mission of the McLean County Museum of History has changed and remained the same during the pandemic.

Learn more about the programs discussed at mchistory.org and following the museum of Facebook and Instagram.

If you or someone you know needs helps with errands, you can reach out to the McLean County COVID-19 Mutual Aid Team at 309-839-9496.

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

COVID-1: Jamie and Kelly Mathy Apr 01, 2020

A mini-series on the impact of COVID-19 in McLean County.

In this episode we hear from Jamie and Kelly Mathy on Red Raccoon Games, The Decorators' Grocery, School District 87, and Bloomington City Council.

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

Ep. 27: Noah Riley (Bloom's Coffee) Mar 10, 2020

What's going on with that new coffee shop on Towanda Ave? Noah Riley, owner of Bloom's Coffee, talks about why he chose Bloomington for his business. We also talk about coffee... a lot.

Check them out on Facebook, Instagram, and bloomscoffeebar.com

Better yet - Visit the shop at 1209 1/2 Towanda Ave. (by Times Past Inn)

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

BONUS: 2-Minute Summary of Ryan Feb 27, 2020

Talking to a real journalist inspired me to flex my editing muscles and attempt a 2 minute summary of Ryan’s episode. Nailed it!

Ep. 26: Ryan Denham (WGLT) Feb 27, 2020

Ryan Denham talks to Tyson about the life of a journalist (“the coolest job in the world”). Topics include the local media scene, covering Rivian, sensationalism, social media, and media bias. We wrap up with some thoughts on the future of media.

Support someone else doing a big thing in Bloomington-Normal: Local elementary school teachers' aids

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 25: Jamie Mathy, RC McBride (Downtown/Uptown) Feb 10, 2020

Justin & Tyson speak with two community leaders about the differences & similarities of Uptown Normal & Downtown Bloomington.

Support someone else doing a big thing in Bloomington-Normal:

The Community Health Care Clinic, providing efficient, high quality care through a free clinic model maximizing resources, volunteers, and community partners.

Online: chcchealth.org

900 N Franklin Ave (Normal)

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 24: Kathleen Lorenz (Normal Town Council) Jan 28, 2020

Kathleen Lorenz also dropped by the studio! We discuss the Town Council’s major accomplishment in 2019, the role of council, the town’s public comment policy, the proposed uptown underpass, and what she sees coming down the road in 2020

You can reach Kathleen at 309-531-1884, email her at klorenz@normal.org, and follow her on Facebook at Friends of Kathleen Lorenz.

Support someone else doing a big thing in Bloomington-Normal:

Check out everything going on at Normal Public Library (including the newly designed parking lot)

www.normalpl.org

Side note: I’m actually editing this podcast at the NPL while one son plans on the public iPads and another son is doing a 1-1 reading program with a college student. Something for everyone!

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
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Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 23: Stan Nord (Normal Town Council) Jan 28, 2020

Stan Nord takes a break from his busy schedule to talk about his time on Normal Town Council since he was elected last year. We discuss what he’s learned about the role of the council, how he reaches constituents, the town’s public comment policy, Connect Transit and more.

You can reach Stan at 309-242-2495, email him at snord@normal.org, and follow him on Facebook at Nord for Normal.

Support someone else doing a big thing in Bloomington-Normal:

God’s Decision Outreach Ministry, helping at risk youth in the community with initiatives like Operation Hug a Child.

www.gdompatterson.com

Thank you to our sponsors

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Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 22: Matt Hawkins, Callum Fletcher (Sixty-Six Games Expo) Jan 13, 2020

Matt Hawkins and Coach Callum Fletcher talk about the upcoming Sixty-Six Games Expo. What all is going on at the expo, how did it come to be, and what about Bloomington-Normal is appealing for this premier national event? We also discuss the eSports program at IWU and local eSports culture.

Catch the expo at the Arena on January 17-19.

For more information, go to www.sixtysixgames.com

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 21: Justin Bellas (Bellas Landscaping, Lil’ Beaver Brewery) Dec 23, 2019

Justin Bellas is a co-owner of Bellas Landscaping and Lil’Beaver Brewery. He explains how he got his start as a small business owner up through future plans for both companies.

You can find more information at the company’s websites and Facebook pages.

bellaslandscaping.com

lilbeaverbrewery.com

You can also see what’s on tab at Lil’ Beaver by downloading the Untappd app.

Support someone else doing a big thing in Bloomington-Normal:

Attend a McLean County Chamber of Commerce event. The chamber supports local businesses of all sizes in achieving their goals and celebrating their accomplishments.

mcleancochamber.org

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 20: Deb Halperin (West Bloomington Revitalization Project) Dec 10, 2019

Deb Halperin is the President of the West Bloomington Revitalization Project (WBRP). We speak about how the project has grown over the last decade, as well as how it plans to continue to build on the strengths of neighborhood and empower residents. Just look at all these programs: Community Garden, Bike Co-Op, Book Bike, Tool Library, Veggie Oasis, Seed Library, Bed Blitz, and more!

You can find more information at:

Their office at 724 W. Washington
Website: westbloomington.org
Facebook and other social media platforms

Support someone else doing a big thing in Bloomington-Normal:

Mary Cambell at Dreams as Possible. An organization, which helps women find sustainable employment by providing them with free materials to learn trade jobs.

ilprairiecf.org/dreams-are-possible

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
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Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 19: Abbi Sorrells, Erik Rankin, Rob Fazzini (Countywide Candidates) Nov 25, 2019

We sit down with all three McLean countywide candidates to discuss the offices they are seeking, what motivated them to run, and why these offices are chosen by partisan races. And a special announcement by one of the candidates is PodBN’s first official scoop!

You can find more information on the candidates on Facebook and other social media platforms.

Support someone else doing a big thing in Bloomington-Normal:

Donate professional clothes for people in the court system at Public Defender Carla Barnes’s office.

Email: carla.barnes@mcleancountyil.gov

Phone: (309) 888-5235

Visit the Ecology Action Center, the “gold standard” in Illinois for recycling and green living.

ecologyactioncenter.org

Volunteer at the YWCA Labyrinth Program, which offers reintegration services to formerly incarcerated women.

ywcamclean.org

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 18: Tari Renner (Bloomington Mayor) Nov 11, 2019

Bloomington mayor Tari Renner stops by to talk about the major duties of his position, reflect on his time in office, and consider the future of the city.

You can get in touch with Mayor Renner via email at mayor@cityblm.org, or by attending a Mayoral Open House at 4:30 the Friday before most regular council meetings.

Support someone else doing a big thing in Bloomington-Normal:

Boys & Girls Club of Bloomington-Normal, who are building a new clubhouse at Sunnyside Park in Bloomington.

Online: bgcbn.org

Facebook: Boys & Girls Club of Bloomington-Normal

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Announcement: Season 2 Nov 09, 2019

Season 2 starts next week!

___

Thank you to our sponsors

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Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 17: Shayna Watchkinski (McLean County Board) Sep 24, 2019

Shayna Watchinski is never shy about saying what’s on her mind. In this episode we hear about her journey from working mom to political leader. How did she get started down that path? What were the major milestones and surprises? Why so much hate for the pink hair? We cover these topics and more.

To learn more about the County Board, visit: mcleancountyil.gov/464/County-Board

Support someone else doing a big thing in Bloomington-Normal: Donate professional clothes for people in the court system at Public Defender Carla Barnes’s office.

Email: carla.barnes@mcleancountyil.gov

Phone: (309) 888-5235

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 16: Jeremy Kelley (Illinois Fire Juniors Soccer Club) Sep 09, 2019

Jeremy Kelley is the secretary of the Illinois Fire Juniors Soccer Club and the co-chair of the capital campaign for new field space. Jeremy fills us in on the local soccer scene, what’s needed in a new field space, and how this need relates to the related discussion of a multi-sport complex.

To learn more, you can visit:

illinoisfirejuniors.com
Facebook: Illinois Fire Juniors
Articles on local news sources, such as WGLT and the Pantagraph

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports (playnormalesports.com)
Normal Gadgets (normalgadgets.com)
BRE Law (breinjurylaw.com)

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 15: Erik Rankin (McLean County Democrats) Aug 27, 2019

On this episode of Pod BN we speak to McLean County Democratic Chair Erik Rankin. Listen to Erik as he explains the reason for the party's growth and the plans for the next few years

To learn more, you can visit:

mcleancountydemocrats.org
Facebook and Twitter: McLean County Democrats
indivisible.org

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports
Normal Gadgets

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 14: Connie Beard (McLean County Republican Party) Aug 12, 2019

Connie Beard stops by to talk about her experiences as Chair of the local Republican Party, the 2018 election, and the outlook for 2020.

To learn more, you can visit:

Online: mcleancountyrepublicans.org
FB: McLean County Republicans
September 14 Leadership Institute Campaign Management Workshop

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports
Normal Gadgets

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Local Topics, July 2019: Route 9 Jul 15, 2019

Bike lanes and parking and sidewalks, oh my!

Since the last episode, Tyson has been digging into the details of the proposed road revisions on Route 9, including new bike lanes and less parking. He discusses the issue with his friend Jeremy, who holds some differing opinions on the approach. They go from least to most controversial to see if they can bridge the divide on this polarizing topic.

It would be particularly handy to have the route map for reference, if possible. You can find it on the PodBN Facebook Page

The city is collecting feedback through July. You can send it to your council member at ward#@cityblm.org (where # is your ward number) and publicworks@cityblm.org.

Local Topics, July 2019: Parking Jul 08, 2019

Justin helps Tyson get up to speed on some local political topics he missed while he’s been distracted by his job up the last couple months. We touch on a few points of controversy covered fairly well in the media. Then we dive into parking, with a focus on downtown Bloomington and proposed Route 9 bike lanes. We wrap up with some advice on how to stay informed and involved.

Some additional information to supplement the show:

Jeff Speck’s Walkable City Rules
What is a “Stroad” and Why Does It Matter?
Call of Duty Tournament: July 12-14 all day @ Play Normal E-Sports
Public meeting on Empire Street (Road?) bike lanes: Thursday July 11, Bloomington City Hall, 4:30-6:30pm

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports
Normal Gadgets

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep.13: Steve Suess (McLean County Libertarian Party) Jun 24, 2019

Steve Suess is the Chair of the McLean County Libertarian Party. We talk about the recent growth of the local party, learn about their future plans, and try out best to keep the conversation local instead of national – you can judge if we were successful.

Find out more on:

Facebook: McLean County Libertarian Party
Online: mcleancountylp.org

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports
Normal Gadgets
Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep.12: Chuck Marohn (Strong Towns) Jun 05, 2019

Chuck Marohn is the Founder and President of Strong Towns, an international movement that’s dedicated to making communities across the United States and Canada financially strong and resilient. He Skyped in from Minnesota to talk about hot topics in Bloomington-Normal.

We start with a brief orientation to Strong Towns (2:20), then we chat about approaches for connectivity and infill (8:45), downtown/uptown revitalization (20:15), Connect Transit (35:20), and next steps for the Arena and Eastland Mall (53:20).

Find out more at StrongTowns.com and the Strong Towns Podcast. At the website you can preorder “Strong Towns: The Book” and see what events are scheduled, including the upcoming book tour.

On the topic of transit, Chuck recommends “Human Transit” by Jarrett Walker.

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports
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Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep.11: Charlie Johnson (CBD, Marijuana Legalization, & Hard Determinism) May 26, 2019

Charlie Johnsonis the owner of Potsitivities, a CBD lotion producer. We discuss CBD, a cannabis-based (legal) supplement which has been shown to have remarkable health benefits. He also offers his take on marijuana legalization, a topic he follows closely. We wrap up with some philosophizing on the Fermi Paradox and the free will/determinism debate.

Find out more at

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports
Normal Gadgets
Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 10: Zach Dietmeier (Economic Development Council) Apr 22, 2019

Zach Dietmeier is the Vice President of Marketing & Communication for the EDC. He explains the history the EDC, its goals, and its practices. We then dig into the details of Rivian and Brandt: two recent notable examples of EDC action. We wrap up with a discussion of how the council interacts with the other private and public organizations in the county.

Find out more at:

EDC website: bnbiz.org
BN Advantage website: bnadvantage.com
EDC on Facebook
Visit their office at 200 W College Ave in Normal
Call 309-452-8437

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports / Normal Gadgets
Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 9: Lauri Meins (Haven Studios) Apr 15, 2019

Lauri Meins is a fitness enthusiast and serial entrepreneur. She has a streak of running at least a mile every day for 4 years, is an IronMan triathlete, and teaches yoga. Her hair styling businesses have helped her live her best life through her work, and she’s recently purchased on online boutique as well. We discuss what motivates her to pursue all these endeavors (it’s not Hot Pockets).

Find out more at

Instagram: runlaurirun
Haven Studios
Hello Beautiful Hair Salon
Harlow Brooke Boutique
Barbell Club: Free yoga Thursdays at 7pm

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports
Normal Gadgets
Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 8: Jennifer McDade (Elemental Market & Art Hive) Apr 09, 2019

Jennifer McDade, owner of Elemental Market & Art Hive, talks about her community service experience, including her time on Bloomington City Council during the financial crisis. We then discuss her microbusiness and her perspectives on Downtown, past and future. Plus: fancy pants and a special heart pillow.

Find out more at elementalmarketandarthive.com, on Facebook, and on Instagram.

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports
Normal Gadgets
Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

2019 Elections Edition (Karl Sila, Normal Write-In Candidate) Mar 27, 2019

You thought we were done, but there’s one more!

A sub-podcast featuring conversations with Bloomington-Normal council candidates.

Our guest is Karl Sila, write-in candidate for Normal Town Council.

Find out more on Facebook at "Karl Silva for Normal Town Council"

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports
Normal Gadgets
Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Up for Days” by Pleasant Pictures Music Club (pleasantpictures.com); licensed for use

Ep. 7: Angelique Rački (BCAI School of Arts) Mar 26, 2019

Angelique Rački(“rahtch-key”)is the founder of Breaking Chains & Advancing Increase (BCAI) School of Arts. We talk about what led her to create the school, the experiences that keep her going, how Hip Hop culture differs from pop culture representations, how recognizing our shared humanity allows us to celebrate our differences, and much much more.

Click here to buy your tickets for their upcoming mix.fuze.evolve event.

Find out more at:

BCAIArts.org
BCAI on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and pretty much any other social media you can think of
Email: breakingchains116@gmail.com

Thank you to our sponsors

Play Normal E-Sports
Normal Gadgets
Lil’ Beaver Brewery

Music: “Extremes” by The Lemming Shepherds, public domain

Ep. 6: Mike McCurdy (Bike BloNo, Connect Transit) Mar 12, 2019

Mike McCurdy, co-founder of Bike BloNo and Chair of the Connect Transit Board, stops by to talk transportation.

What is it like to use a bike as your primary mode of transportation in Bloomington-Normal? How are bus routes established? How does car culture clash with public transit culture? We discuss those questions and much more.

It may help to pull up this System Map during some of the Connect Transit discussion in the second half of the show.

Find out more at: