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Julie Yurko is President & CEO of Northern Illinois Food Bank, where she leads a neighbor-centric transformation of the charitable food system to deliver dignified, equitable access across 13 counties. A respected nonprofit leader and past president of Apra International, she serves on the boards of the Global FoodBanking Network, Better Business Bureau of Chicago, Feeding Illinois, and the Thrivent Member Network. In this episode, we trace Julie's path from cello student and Chicago Symphony Orchestra fundraiser to crisis-tested food bank chief—exploring how faith, lived experience, and innovative community partnerships shape her vision to end hunger.
Today's episode continues last week's conversation with Jason Blankenship, Vice President of the Better Business Bureau, and we're talking about something that affects everyone — scams. They come by phone, by text, by email, and sometimes even right to your doorstep. And they're getting smarter, slicker, and harder to spot. We'll dive into the newest tricks scammers are using to steal your money and your information, and we'll break down real examples so you'll know exactly what to look out for. Jason will also share practical steps you can take to protect yourself, your family, and even your business from becoming the next target. From fake bank alerts and tech support scams to those “too good to be true” text messages, this conversation will open your eyes and arm you with knowledge you can use right away. So before you answer that next unknown call or click that suspicious link — listen to this episode. It might just save you from becoming the next victim. Todays Guest: Jason Blankenship Find & Report A Scam: https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker Scam Survival Toolkit: https://scamsurvivaltoolkit.bbbmarketplacetrust.org BBB Phone: 478-742-9331 x1 Website: BBB.org/central-georgia Sponsors: Tim Broyles State Farm https://mydowntownagency.com/ Habitat for Humanity of Putnam https://www.putnamcountyhabitat.org/ Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce Link to Small Business Development Center Business Funding Event: https://georgiasbdc.org/training-program/0649-027-mcn-unlocking-capital-an-owners-guide-to-funding-a-small-business/?mc_cid=3807d7c203&mc_eid=7408392f1e
November is Utility Scam Awareness Month, and some tricks of fraudsters can be shocking. Kayla Palmore with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM Newsradio has more.
Heather Clary of the Better Business Bureau warns Jack and his listeners about fake job sites in light of the government shut down. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
November is Utility Scam Awareness Month, and some tricks of fraudsters can be shocking. Kayla Palmore with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM Newsradio has more.
November is Utility Scam Awareness Month, and some tricks of fraudsters can be shocking. Kayla Palmore with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM Newsradio has more.
President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau Steve Bernas joins Bob Sirott to discuss scams that target veterans and members of the church, as well as fake texts claiming to be from Geek Squad. He also shares details about a podcast scam email, a warning about fake government invoices, and the Justice Department’s health care fraud charges.
In this episode of the Rutherford Issues podcast, your host Bryan Barrett is joined by James Price of the Better Business Bureau to dive deep into how positive customer review
Fraud has always been a consistent challenge. As the world has continued to become increasingly interconnected and as new technologies have become widely available, threat actors have continued to evolve their tactics. In this episode of CISO Perspectives, host Kim Jones sits down with Mel Lanning from the Better Business Bureau to discuss fraud and how it has been evolving in recent years. From exploiting cryptocurrencies to utilizing emerging technologies, Kim and Mel look into how threat actors are changing and refining tactics in the current threat landscape. This episode of N2K Pro's CISO Perspectives podcast is brought to you by our sponsor, Meter. Meter provides a full-stack, enterprise-grade networking solution—wired, wireless, and cellular—designed, deployed, and managed end-to-end. From hardware to software, ISP to security, Meter delivers seamless, secure, and scalable connectivity for modern business environments. Learn more about Meter. Want more CISO Perspectives? Check out a companion blog post by our very own Ethan Cook, where he breaks down key insights, shares behind-the-scenes context, and highlights research that complements this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Heather Clary of the Better Business Bureau is off to shoot skeet with her BBB buddies on the way she calls in to advise Jack and his listeners to watch out for scammers connected to the recent UPS tragedy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today's episode is one you'll definitely want to listen to — and maybe even share with someone you care about. I'm joined by Jason Blankenship, Vice President of the Better Business Bureau, and we're talking about something that affects everyone — scams. They come by phone, by text, by email, and sometimes even right to your doorstep. And they're getting smarter, slicker, and harder to spot. We'll dive into the newest tricks scammers are using to steal your money and your information, and we'll break down real examples so you'll know exactly what to look out for. Jason will also share practical steps you can take to protect yourself, your family, and even your business from becoming the next target. From fake bank alerts and tech support scams to those “too good to be true” text messages, this conversation will open your eyes and arm you with knowledge you can use right away. So before you answer that next unknown call or click that suspicious link — listen to this episode. It might just save you from becoming the next victim. Todays Guest: Jason Blankenship Find & Report A Scam: https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker Scam Survival Toolkit: https://scamsurvivaltoolkit.bbbmarketplacetrust.org BBB Phone: 478-742-9331 x1 Website: BBB.org/central-georgia Sponsors: Tim Broyles State Farm https://mydowntownagency.com/ Habitat for Humanity of Putnam https://www.putnamcountyhabitat.org/ Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce Link to Small Business Development Center Business Funding Event: https://georgiasbdc.org/training-program/0649-027-mcn-unlocking-capital-an-owners-guide-to-funding-a-small-business/?mc_cid=3807d7c203&mc_eid=7408392f1e
President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau Steve Bernas joins Bob Sirott to explain how you can spot a Facebook settlement scam and why sharing your information online could lead to more telemarketing calls. He also discusses cable and streaming scams, like texts and calls from scammers pretending to be a company representative.
Veterans Day honors those who serve, but fraudsters see it as an opportunity to scam. Jay Elliott with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM has all the details.
Veterans Day honors those who serve, but fraudsters see it as an opportunity to scam. Jay Elliott with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM has all the details.
Veterans Day honors those who serve, but fraudsters see it as an opportunity to scam. Jay Elliott with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM has all the details.
Heather Clary of the Better Business Bureau tells Jack and his listeners to watch out! Digital scammers are increasing and upping their game!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Score Values, Tyler Buterbaugh was joined by Steve Bernas from the Better Business Bureau to discuss certain scams to look out for with the holidays coming up. Dawn Melchiorre from Cradles to Crayons then shared how you can help children in need of winter clothing as the seasons change.
When you turn back the clock, turn up your credit protection. Jordan Wright with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM Newsradio reports.
When you turn back the clock, turn up your credit protection. Jordan Wright with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM Newsradio reports.
Host Bryan Barrett talks with James Price of the Better Business Bureau about the growing number of healthcare scam artists targeting consumers during open enrollment. With Me
When you turn back the clock, turn up your credit protection. Jordan Wright with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM Newsradio reports.
President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau Steve Bernas joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to talk about Halloween costume shopping scams and how voice technology is being used to hack into bank accounts. He also explains how a scammer can pose as an attorney to ask for money and the BBB’s upcoming 100th anniversary celebration.
Open enrollment is underway for Medicare recipients, but the Better Business Bureau has a warning about scams.
Scammers offering inflation rebates could end up deflating your savings account. Kayla Palmore with the Better Business Bureau has more on Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® for WBBM Newsradio.
Scammers offering inflation rebates could end up deflating your savings account. Kayla Palmore with the Better Business Bureau has more on Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® for WBBM Newsradio.
Scammers offering inflation rebates could end up deflating your savings account. Kayla Palmore with the Better Business Bureau has more on Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® for WBBM Newsradio.
In the week's most talked about health news, Ozempic remains front and center as both a weight loss therapy and a social phenomenon. The drug, whose medical name is semaglutide, has been generating headlines after a landmark study published in the October 2025 issue of Value in Health found that broader Medicare access to Ozempic could lead to significant cost savings for the health system alongside notable medical benefits. Researchers from the University of Washington and their collaborators projected that covering Ozempic for conditions like diabetes, overweight and obesity, and liver disease would reduce the risk of life-changing complications such as heart attacks, chronic kidney disease, and sleep apnea. Their model suggested Medicare would save hundreds of millions of dollars over the next decade while thousands of patients would avoid cardiovascular events, serious kidney problems, and even deaths thanks to expanded Ozempic use.This new data reignited debates about the ethics and economics of prescription weight loss. McGill University experts highlighted that semaglutide and similar GLP-1 receptor agonists are being investigated beyond obesity and diabetes, with potential roles in treating heart failure, fatty liver disease, sleep disorders, and even certain addictions. However, physicians warn listeners about unresolved safety concerns, such as the risk of gallbladder issues and possible psychiatric side effects over extended periods. With millions now seeking a prescription, public health leaders are also calling attention to cost and access barriers especially as high demand pressures insurance systems and out-of-pocket costs remain significant for many patients.Part of Ozempic's pop culture appeal comes from celebrity testimonials, and no one drives the conversation more than Oprah Winfrey. According to AOL and recent lifestyle coverage, Oprah shocked fans this week with a fresh social media post revealing her dramatic weight loss while openly sharing that Ozempic is part of her approach. Still, she repeatedly emphasizes that medication is only one aspect of her journey. Her message to listeners is clear: The true transformation did not come from a miracle drug, a crash diet, or punishing exercise, but rather a holistic overhaul fueled by compassion and science. Oprah describes her regimen as balancing whole foods, like fruits and vegetables, with enjoyable activity and never forceful deprivation. Most importantly, she rejects years of shame and self-blame, framing obesity as a medical condition rather than a moral failing. Oprah's transparency about using prescription weight loss medication, though not naming Ozempic directly, is credited for helping normalize the conversation and encouraging others to view medical therapies as valid tools for improving health when used responsibly.Blog reports and interviews highlight that Oprah's prescription is supervised and supports her broader health plan, including dietary changes and regular movement. Oprah states that Ozempic quiets the “food noise” in her brain, giving her room to make healthier choices without feeling tormented by cravings. She adamantly denies that the shot is any kind of “easy way out,” framing it instead as a supportive measure that allows other healthy habits to flourish. This week, several outlets repeated Oprah's warning to avoid quick-fix thinking: She tells followers that lasting weight loss is about self-compassion, consistency, and letting go of guilt. The wave of support for her message underscores a shifting cultural view of weight loss drugs; they are increasingly seen as medically legitimate, though experts urge listeners not to rely solely on medication and to view it as part of a larger toolkit.One persistent problem is misleading online marketing, with scam trackers and consumer advocates warning this week about fraudulent social media claims linking Oprah to unapproved products. The Better Business Bureau flagged an increase in scams using her name without permission to market questionable supplements, urging consumers to verify all sources and consult actual medical professionals before trying new therapies.In summary, these past seven days have cemented Ozempic's role at the heart of debates over the future of weight management. While new studies show broad clinical and financial benefits, safety concerns persist and access remains an issue for many. Oprah's approach bridges the gap between science and humanity, encouraging listeners to think holistically, care for themselves compassionately, and use all available tools while prioritizing their wellbeing. The ongoing story of Ozempic, with its mix of hope, caution, and disruption, looks set to define the next era of how society, medicine, and culture talk about weight loss.Thanks for listening, please subscribe, and remember—this episode was brought to you by Quiet Please podcast networks. For more content like this, please go to Quiet Please dot Ai.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
Sharing is not caring if you're giving your information to Medicare fraudsters. Jay Elliott with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM has some tips.
Kruser in for Jack visits with Heather Clary of the Better Business Bureau gives listener's tips on cyber security, scam tracker risk reports, in particular on social media, as well as threats on all devices connected to wi-fi in your home. Best defenses noted are good firewall, multifactorial verification and strong passwords. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sharing is not caring if you're giving your information to Medicare fraudsters. Jay Elliott with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM has some tips.
Sharing is not caring if you're giving your information to Medicare fraudsters. Jay Elliott with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM has some tips.
President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau Steve Bernas joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to talk about the increase of AI scams during the Medicare Open Enrollment period and what to be aware of during Cybersecurity Awareness Month. He also explains what “wrong number” scams are and how con artists stealing debit cards from mailboxes.
If you're drowning in $20,000, $40,000, or even $80,000+ of debt, this video could change your financial future.I spent the last YEAR researching over 100 debt relief companies. Most are predators. But I found 2 that are different.In this video, I'm showing you:✅ When debt relief makes sense (and when it DESTROYS you)✅ The 15 questions you MUST ask before signing anything✅ How Sarah eliminated $45K in debt for only $18K✅ The brutal truth about what happens to your credit✅ Why I turned down major money to bring you these options
Heather Clary of the Better Business Bureau tells Jack more about the inner workings of customer reviews on the BBB. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ozempic remains at the center of American conversations around weight loss, especially as the demand for prescription medications aimed at shedding pounds continues to surge nationwide. This past week, two topics have dominated news coverage. First, the ongoing popularity and the urgent warnings about counterfeit versions of weight loss drugs like Ozempic. Second, the role that Oprah Winfrey's public statements are playing in influencing perceptions about what these medications can—and cannot—actually do.According to ABC News, federal officials are sounding the alarm as more patients turn to online sellers for Ozempic and similar drugs, leading to what Homeland Security calls an “absolutely” unprecedented surge in dangerous counterfeits. Many of these illegal sellers use phrases like “No Rx” to bypass regulations, promising weight loss drugs without prescriptions or safety guarantees. The Food and Drug Administration clarifies that Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are tightly regulated, manufactured under strict scrutiny, and are only legal with a prescription. In contrast, unofficial versions dubbed “Fauxzempic” can be counterfeit and potentially life-threatening. Recent coverage stresses that anyone seeking true Ozempic should rely solely on licensed medical professionals and FDA-approved pharmacies to avoid potentially severe health risks.This swell in demand for ozempic and its lookalikes comes as people report dramatic results. Yet, the landscape is muddied not just by fake medicines but also by fraudulent endorsements using celebrity imagery and artificial intelligence. WCPO reports this week on how scammers are exploiting advanced technology to create deepfake videos of Oprah Winfrey allegedly promoting various supplements that claim to mimic Ozempic's effects. These deceptive ads have tricked some consumers into spending hundreds of dollars on unknown substances shipped with no instructions and no scientific backing. Both the Better Business Bureau and independent investigative reports confirm Oprah Winfrey has repeatedly stated she does not endorse any over-the-counter supplement or nonprescription product for weight loss. Deepfake technology now allows scammers to fabricate realistic celebrity recommendations, making it increasingly difficult for ordinary people to separate truth from fiction.Oprah's real stance on Ozempic and weight loss has been thoughtfully discussed in recent interviews and podcasts. On a Yale University obesity medicine episode of The Oprah Podcast, Oprah explained she had long believed thinness was purely a matter of willpower. That changed when she used a prescription GLP-1 medication herself. Oprah described how she finally understood that for many, including herself, the battle with weight is between biology and behavior. She spoke of “food noise”—the constant thoughts and cravings that affect those struggling with obesity—and admitted that, even with medication, this noise never truly disappears. She emphasized medications like Ozempic are not magic bullets, pointing out that any sustainable weight loss for her requires exercise, vigilance, and ongoing lifestyle changes. In her own words published by People and reiterated in current reports, Oprah acknowledged relief and “redemption” in having medical tools to manage her health after decades of blame and shame but firmly denies these medications should be seen as effortless solutions.Simultaneously, current research is highlighting new and unusual side effects associated with using Ozempic and similar drugs, especially in medical imaging. The Independent this week shared findings that patients who use these medications and then undergo PET scans might experience “hot spots” during imaging, potentially complicating diagnostic procedures for certain conditions. This development underscores the importance of informing healthcare providers about any recent prescriptions for GLP-1 drugs, so they can interpret medical images accurately and avoid misdiagnosis.As the popularity of Ozempic and similar drugs reaches new heights, federal warnings about dangerous counterfeits, widespread misinformation fueled by deepfakes and fake endorsements, and evolving understanding of side effects form the core of this week's ongoing story. All experts stress the importance of relying on your physician and FDA-approved pharmacies for health decisions, and not succumbing to slick videos or promises from online sellers. Oprah Winfrey's honest reflections have helped reframe the public conversation, reminding listeners that healthy weight loss is both a medical science and a personal journey, not a simple secret or shortcut.Thanks for listening, please subscribe, and remember—this episode was brought to you by Quiet Please podcast networks. For more content like this, please go to Quiet Please dot Ai. Come back next week for more.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau Steve Bernas joins Bob Sirott to talk about text messages that ask for your banking info, identifying fake Facebook privacy settlement emails, and the rise of employment scams as the holidays get closer. He also shares details about scammers asking for gift cards and why they are targeting seniors in […]
Before you get spooked by your bank statement, here's how to avoid Halloween spending traps. Jordan Wright with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM Newsradio reports.
Before you get spooked by your bank statement, here's how to avoid Halloween spending traps. Jordan Wright with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM Newsradio reports.
Before you get spooked by your bank statement, here's how to avoid Halloween spending traps. Jordan Wright with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM Newsradio reports.
Steve Bernas from the Better Business Bureau joined us to talk scams:-Naked picture send money asap email scam "Delete it no matter what you think, just delete it. It's best not to even engage with them at all"-Tollway text scam-Random text scams -The paypal invoice scam-Contractor scamsscams, scams, and more scams ... IT'S THE TIP OFF TO THE RIPOFF! BBB.ORG BBB.org To subscribe to The Pete McMurray Show Podcast just click here
It's Friday and the weekend, starts here. We are in day 2 of the government shutdown and the loss of jobs is on the horizon with The Republicans not only trying to shift the blame, but also convince the people that this isn't making them so very happy (guess what? It is.) Then, Lisa Schiller is from The Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin and she joins us to talk about all of the latest scams including those games on your phone that say they'll pay you to play! As always, thank you for listening, texting and calling, we couldn't do this without you! Don't forget to download the free Civic Media app and take us wherever you are in the world! Matenaer On Air is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs weekday mornings from 9-11 across the state. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! You can also rate us on your podcast distribution center of choice. It goes a long way! Guest: Lisa Schiller
Heather Clary of the Better Business Bureau talks about the scams associated with a government shutdown. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
May businesses have a complaint button in their website, and the Better Business Bureau keeps pretty busy. Well today on Bridging the Gap, pastor Lloyd Pulley continues his verse by verse study in the Book of Acts. In chapter five, we see some complaining about the message being delivered by the Apostles.
Halloween may be near, but holiday hiring is already underway. Just beware, not every job offer is a gift. Kayla Palmore with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM Newsradio has more.
On this week's episode, WBBM Noon Business Hour Host Rob Hart talks with Steve Bernas, President of the Better Business Bureau of Chicago. They discuss how you can protect your family and sensitive information from scams in world filled with fraud online.
Heather Clary Director of Communications at Better Business Bureau of Central & Eastern Kentucky talks to Jack and his listeners about an article on their website that gives advise on how to reduce debt and raise your credit scores. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you are in this age group (or not) and looking for a job…..Keep listening. Check out my website www.debrarrichardson.com if you need help implementing authentication techniques, internal controls, and best practices to prevent fraudulent payments, regulatory fines or bad vendor data. Check out the Vendor Process Training Center for 116+ hours of weekly live and on-demand training for the Vendor team. Links mentioned in the podcast + other helpful resources: VMF Tip of the Week Video: Is It A Scam? The BBB Scam Tracker May Be Able to Tell You https://youtu.be/y_d6QVlqcSYBBB Scam Tracker: https://www.bbb.org/scamtrackerBBB Scam HQ: https://www.bbb.org/all/scamtips BBB New Scam Alert Emails (Sign-Up): https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1900156/1902645/Get the Vendor Callback Confirmation Toolkit(TM) Today: https://training.debrarrichardson.com/course/callback-confirmation-toolkitCustomized Vendor Validations Session: https://debrarrichardson.com/vendor-validation-sessionFree Download: Vendor Validation Reference List with Resource Links https://debrarrichardson.com/vendor-validation-downloadVendor Process Training Center - https://training.debrarrichardson.comCustomized Fraud Training: https://training.debrarrichardson.com/customized-fraud-training Free Live and On-Demand Webinars: https://training.debrarrichardson.com/webinarsVendor Master File Clean-Up: https://www.debrarrichardson.com/cleanupYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqeoffeQu3pSXMV8fUIGNiw More Podcasts/Blogs/Webinars www.debrarrichardson.comMore ideas? Email me at debra@debrarrichardson.com Music Credit: www.purple-planet.com
President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau Steve Bernas joins Bob Sirott to talk about different types of Homecoming scams and fake phone calls claiming to be an employee from the village of Mount Prospect. He also shares details about how a Portage Park woman lost over twenty thousand dollars to a fake message on her computer […]
Jay Elliott with the Better Business Bureau's Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM Newsradio has tips for avoiding scams from substandard contractors.
Investigators learn more about suspect in Charlie Kirk shooting, tariff case could give Trump massive new fiscal powers, and how to find a reliable auto shop, according to the Better Business Bureau.