Community Voices

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Community Voices is events you might have missed and conversations with neighbors, artists, and area business people. Get to know your neighbors with Community Voices. Suggest a guest at communityvoices@nprillinois.org.

Beatrice Bonner , Randy Eccles, Vanessa Ferguson


    • Oct 25, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 22m AVG DURATION
    • 364 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Community Voices

    New Goat ensemble getting old friends back together

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 25, 2025 23:00


    Jacksonville's Jeff Davidsmeyer discusses reunion shows with the New Goat Ensemble, how they got their name, and playing with Brad Floreth and Bryan Leonard in the Way Out Yonders.

    Time to 'Feed Me! Little Shop of Horrors at the Hoogland - Oct. 31-Nov. 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 25, 2025 16:40


    Tyler Caraballo-Pisani and Ginny Racette visit to discuss their production of the maneating play, Little Shop of Horrors at the Hoogland Center for the Arts Oct. 24-26, Oct. 31-Nov. 2.

    Olympian Ryan Held discusses life after professional swimming

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2025 20:27


    Two-time Olympic gold medalist Ryan Held announced his retirement from professional swimming in August. The Springfield native earned both of his gold medals as part of the U.S. Men's 4×100 Freestyle Relay teams in 2016 and 2024.Held joins Community Voices to reflect on his swimming career, share his ongoing ties to his hometown of Springfield, and talk about the importance of supporting young athletes. He also discusses his career transition to a role at Goldman Sachs, and how swimming will continue to play a role in his life beyond competition.

    Nathan Peak brings bold flavors to The Foundry Kitchen inside Anvil and Forge

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2025 16:47


    Nathan Peak, chef at The Foundry Kitchen inside of Anvil and Forge Brewing and Distilling, talks to Community Voices about his passion for making memorable food. He discusses what brought about his passion for cooking, and how his creativity has evolved over his years in the kitchen. Nathan also speaks about what is next on his culinary journey.

    Time to heat up your volley with platform tennis

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 16:40


    Andy Coon, Springfield Park District tennis manager and recreation assistant, and Rod Remolina, Springfield Platform Tennis Association, discuss Washington Park's platform tennis courts and how they heat up so the game can be played all winter at the Valasco Tennis Center.

    ArRell Accessories CEO talks business, with her mom

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 16:40


    ArRell Bradly is the CEO of ArRell Accessories and is 10 years old. Her mom joins Community Voices for a discussion of business and why it's never too soon to start learning.

    Stella Cole returns home with "Christmas Dreaming" tour on December 22

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 17:44


    Springfield native and jazz artist will perform at the Hoogland Center for the Arts on December 22. This will be her first concert in Springfield since her rise through the jazz world. Craig had a chance to catch up with Stella to ask about her new album "It's Magic." They also discuss what it means for her to return to her hometown and perform on the Hoogland stage, as well as some her favorite international touring spots.It's Magic is available now through Decca Records.

    Global tech company Hexaware plants new roots in Springfield's innovation ecosystem

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 16:39


    Nidhi Alexander is the Chief Marketing Officer of Hexaware Technologies, a global tech company and a new member of Innovate Springfield. In this conversation, she breaks down what Hexaware does for those unfamiliar with the tech world, how the company stands out in a competitive industry and the kinds of problems it helps solve across multiple industries.

    MICA AI for Communicators Workshop - Oct. 23

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 16:40


    The new Mid-Illinois Communications Association is hosting the Mid-Illinois AI for Communicators Workshop Oct. 23 at the UIS Student Union. MICA joined Community Voices to preview the conference and explain how AI is a tool if you learn it.

    50 years of Illinois Times, from alternative weekly to the primary local publication in Springfield with goals to expand service

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2025 33:20


    Editor Fletcher Farrar and Publisher Michelle Ownsby discuss the first 50 years of Springfield's alternative weekly, Illinois Times, and how it is evolving to increase its coverage of local news.

    Not learning AI is like not learning to drive, UIS group facilitating exploration

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2025 19:01


    Jessica Baumberger and Dr. Neetu Singh joins Community Voices to update the use of AI in higher education and why learning it is advantageous.

    Ross Blakeman sprouts new ideas at Rosebud and Co. Flower Shop

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2025 16:40


    Ross returns to Community Voices to discuss the lessons he's learned three years into his Beardstown based floral show, Rosebud and Co. He also discusses the impact of recent economic tariffs have had on his business and why it is important to use small floral shops for your special occasions.

    Christina Shutt highlights artifacts from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in new book, exhibit

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2025 18:44


    Christina Shutt highlights artifacts from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in new book, exhibit.

    Bea Bonner era, part one, wraps up

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2025 16:40


    Bea Bonner does her exit interview on Community Voices with Sean Crawford and Randy Eccles after eight years at NPR Illinois.

    The First Amendment Under Stress

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2025 50:43


    NPR Illinois and the UIS Center for State Policy and Leadership present a panel discussion on how news media, the press, are under multiple threats to their independence. Medill's Tim Franklin and attorney Don Craven join moderator Sean Crawford to sort through the issues.

    Camp out to lift up homeless veterans in the community - Oct. 18

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2025 16:39


    Fifth Street Renaissance's Camp Out 4 Homeless Veterans is coming up on October 18th at Medics First in Springfield.

    A new chapter in the reopening of Springfield's African American History Museum

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2025 16:41


    The Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum has officially reopened. The museum had temporarily closed to undergo significant renovations aimed at creating a more immersive and interactive experience for visitors

    Local cast scares up age-appropriate morbid humor for Halloween with Beetlejuice Jr. - Oct. 10-12

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2025 16:40


    Community Voices contributor Craig McFarland talks with cast members Olivia Garrett and Jackson Thornton along with directors Nicole and John Sivak about the musical created from the film coming to the Hoogland Center for the Arts.

    R&B Live Ladies Edition singing the dream in central Illinois - Oct. 26

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 50:30


    Elnora Brooks and Calia Cole join Community Voices to share the work of R&B Live Ladies Edition and to elevate R&B in the central Illinois music scene.

    Dr. Wendi Wills El-Amin shares the importance of equity in healthcare

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 16:41


    Dr. Wendi El-Amin Associate Dean for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at SIU School of Medicine explores how inclusive healthcare practices are vital to improving community health outcomes.

    Dr. John Flack shares strategies for preventing and treating hypertension

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 16:41


    Dr. John Flack shares information about hypertension.

    Spencer Theatre Company brings Frankenstein to the Hoogland - Oct 10-12, 17-19

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 16:41


    Spencer Theatre Company's production of Frankenstein runs October 10–12 and October 17–19 at the Hoogland Center for the Arts.

    Come From Away brings humanity and kindness to the Legacy Theatre stage - Sept. 26-28, Oct. 1-5, 8-12

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 16:41


    The Legacy Theatre will present the regional premier of Come From Away, September 26-28, October 1-5 and 8-12.

    Mary Frances curates Untold Stories, and exhibits the East Side story of People's Bank of Springfield - through Nov. 9

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 16:40


    Springfield artist Mary Frances shares the work and history behind her exhibit about the east side's People's Bank of Springfield.

    Cathy Randall: A life of vision beyond sight

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 16:41


    Cathy Randall of Jacksonville has lived a life full of advocacy and service.

    Aidan McParland goes from bags to beats

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2025 23:00


    Musician and producer Aidan McParland played bagpipes with family in Springfield, graduated Illinois, and now finds himself at a studio in Chicago and performing as Forever

    Hope and awareness lead the way at Springfield's Out of the Darkness Walk

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 16:41


    The Out of the Darkness Walk is October 4 beginning at the UIS Student Union.

    Volunteers needed to help reconstruct historic Duck Bay Shelter in Shawnee National Forest

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 16:41


    HistoriCorps is partnering with the Shawnee National Forest to reconstruct the historic Duck Bay Shelter, a CCC-era structure in Southern Illinois.

    Paramedic-to-Producer: Central Illinois natives behind Code 3 share their ride through Hollywood

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 23:01


    Patrick and Paul "Pizza" Pianezza are the creative minds behind the upcoming feature film Code 3, hitting theaters September 12.

    Retiring LLCC President talks about the future of community colleges

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 16:39


    Dr. Charlotte Warren has announced she will retire next summer.

    NVE groups targeting youth online and what parents need to know

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 33:22


    The Springfield-based FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force is working to raise awareness about the growing threat of Nihilistic Violent Extremist (NVE) groups.

    Rochester's Rock & Run for Mental Health - Sept. 7

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 12:31


    Brandon Damm is organizing the fourth annual Rock & Run for Mental Health at Rochester Community Park Pavilion on September 7, 2025, from 9 a.m. to noon. It will benefit Heritage Behavioral Health in Decatur, which focuses on suicide prevention. If you need emotional support, reach out to the national mental health hotline: 988.

    Learn new skills and make new friends at IWIL Women's Symposium - Sept. 19, 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2025 16:41


    Sarah Brewer gives insight on IWIL Women's Symposium 2025.

    Rikeesha Phelon crafting messages that matter in strategic communication and community impact

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2025 33:22


    Rikeesha Phelon talks about her career evolution, the role of strategic communication in institutions like SIU, and how she balances innovation with clarity in health messaging.

    Peoria chapter of Red Sneakers for Food Allergy Awareness is laced up and ready to educate

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2025 16:41


    Red Sneakers for Food Allergy Awareness Peoria Chapter shares helpful tips as children head back to school.

    Peter Wenz explores philosophy's role in science and society

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2025 16:41


    UIS Emeritus Professor of Philosophy Peter Wenz shares insights from decades of teaching and writing across the globe.

    Jenna Dooley reflects on mentors, memories and the "bleep button" in her journey through public radio.

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2025 33:23


    Jenna Dooley News Director at Northern Public Radio reflects on her time working for public media stations.

    Get to know U.S. Navy Reserve Electrician's Mate Second Class Laurent Azonnadou

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2025 16:40


    Get to know U.S. Navy Reserve Electrician's Mate Second Class Laurent Azonnadou.

    Meredith Crifasi on harmonizing science and the stage

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 16:41


    Meredith Crifasi talks about her love of violin and science.

    Art and spirituality converge in The Golden Seed, The Liturgical Arts Festival's off-year offering

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2025 16:41


    The Liturgical Arts Festival's 2025 program will be a theatrical performance with musical components.

    Expansion coming to the Jacksonville Area Museum

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 16:40


    Jacksonville Area Museum keeps Jacksonville's rich history alive through upcoming expansion.

    Dreamgirls to return to Springfield at the Hoogland Center for the Arts

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2025 16:40


    The Hoogland Center for the Arts is excited to present the smash-hit musical Dreamgirls on August 22-24 and 29-31.

    Learn how the Johns ‘keep it Disney' in pediatrics

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2025 16:41


    Drs. Teena and Ashish John are pediatricians based in Springfield. They spoke with Community Voices about how they met, what inspired them to pursue careers in pediatrics, and how Disney influences the compassionate care they provide to their patients. The conversation also offers a glimpse into Dr. Ashish John's musical side, including his involvement in a band.

    Allison Lacher reflects on discovering her artistic voice in a place she never expected

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2025 33:23


    Allison Lacher is the Director of the UIS Visual Arts Gallery and a practicing visual artist whose work blends metallic surfaces, vibrant colors and domestic objects to create emotionally charged spaces. She spoke to Community Voices about her journey to Springfield, her recent curator-in-residence position in Pittsburgh and what's in store for the UIS Visual Arts Gallery this fall. Lacher also discussed her current exhibition at the Illinois State Museum, her work with STNDRD Exhibitions and her hopes for the future of Springfield's arts community.

    Behind the headlines with the reporter covering Illinois' most powerful stories

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 33:22


    Community Voices talks with former NPR Illinois reporter Hannah Meisel.

    Vanessa Ferguson signs off with a spicy farewell on Community Voices

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 23:01


    From heartfelt reflections to hilarious heat-induced moments, Vanessa's send-off was equal parts emotional and entertaining.

    Prairie Insulation marks 20 years of serving Central Illinois homebuilders

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 16:40


    Prairie Insulation is celebrating 20 years of operation. Fiore Belmonte and Jeremy Nihiser spoke to Community Voices about the business's growth. They shared how Prairie Insulation got its start in Springfield, how insulation technology has evolved and what it means to take a people-first approach in the trades.

    Who from Springfield appeared on 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?' Greg Peterson. Final Answer.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 33:22


    Greg Peterson is a local public defender with a knack for trivia. He has been a contestant on "Teen Jeopardy," "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," and "The Chase." Greg spoke with Community Voices about the behind-the-scenes world of game shows, the strategies he used to compete, and why he encourages everyone to apply. He also shared his thoughts on former "Jeopardy!" host Alex Trebek and legendary game show contestant James Holzhauer.

    Sangamon County ROSC Works to Break Barriers and Build Recovery

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 16:39


    Sangamon County ROSC is a group that connects people with the resources they need to address substance use challenges and build a foundation for lasting recovery. They work to identify and reduce barriers and gaps for individuals and families, ensuring they have the support and resources necessary for success. Whitney Devine, Sangamon County ROSC Program Manager, and Austin Dambacher, Sangamon ROSC Coordinator, spoke with Community Voices about community support, the stigma people in recovery face, and their 2025 Community Survey Findings & Strategic Plan. Find more about Sangamon County ROSC here.

    Harmony, healing and helping others: Meet local counselor Jean Follin

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 16:39


    Jean Follin is a licensed clinical professional counselor and a long-time volunteer at the Hoogland Center for the Arts. In fact, the volunteer award at the Hoogland Center is named in her honor. She spoke to Community Voices about her love of music and theatre, and her inspiration to help others through counseling. She also reflected on her time with the Sound Celebration Chorus, a women's acapella chorus, and gave a preview of what to expect at the chorus' upcoming concert on Sept. 13.

    A family in step: Jaden Saunders' tap journey and the mom who helped him find his rhythm

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 16:40


    Jaden Saunders is a local tap dancer who's been making a name for himself through his many performances in Springfield. His mother, Tiffani Saunders, is a sociologist and former professor at the University of Illinois Springfield. In this Community Voices interview we learn how Tiffani enrolled Jaden in tap at a young age as an outlet for his rambunctious energy. We also hear Jaden's plans for the future, and we discuss the roots of tap dancing and the barriers to entry for young people.

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