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Chicago radio personality and Barguments podcast host Dan Levy joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to talk about the start of grilling season and the best recipes for listeners to fire up on the grill this summer. Wendy, Dan, and Dave Eanet each comment on ways they clean their grills, and then Wendy shares a tasty […]
Tanner Mitchell, known as Tanner the Planter, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to chat about ways to keep your indoor plants healthy longer as well as tips for repotting houseplants. Tanner also details some ingredients and fertilizers to use to enhance the life of your plants. You can find Tanner’s plant advice and […]
Shamus Toomey, Editor in Chief and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. Shamus has details on: After Uber Caught Overcharging Chicago Riders, City And State Push To Regulate Rideshares: Block Club reported that Uber was overcharging the city's downtown congestion fee. A city […]
WGN’s Dane Neal joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to set the stage for the 2025 Indianapolis 500. Dane discusses the excitement leading up to the race and highlights some of the great food available for fans to purchase. The Indy 500 coverage gets underway at 9:00 AM Sunday morning with Dane on WGN […]
Dean Richards, entertainment reporter for WGN, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to provide the latest news in entertainment. Wendy and Dean talk about Bob Sirott’s nomination for the Radio Hall of Fame and things to do this weekend. They also share details about a couple of celebrity deaths, Russell Brand’s first court appearance, […]
Shamus Toomey, Editor in Chief and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. Shamus has details on: Chicago's Comic Book Stores Banding Together For Citywide Shop Crawl Saturday: Neighborhood shops plan to take this year's Free Comic Book Day festivities to a new level, […]
Chicago Tribune food critic Louisa Chu joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to share her review of a new Middle Eastern restaurant in Bridgeview, M'daKhan, and Proxi’s focus on Asian-style cuisine. She also talks about a comfort food restaurant located in the Moonflower cocktail bar, Funeral Potatoes.
Dr. Michael Angarone, infectious disease specialist at Northwestern Medicine, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to answer your questions about the measles vaccine. He talks about how you can find out whether or not you’ve had measles and if it’s safe to get a booster even if you’ve had the vaccine before.
In this heartfelt and empowering episode of Aligned Womb, Aligned You, I'm joined by the incredible Wendy Snyder—certified parenting educator, family life coach, and host of The Fresh Start Family Show. Together, we dive deep into the realities of modern parenting, especially for women navigating midlife, hormones, entrepreneurship, and the emotional weight of “doing it all.”Wendy shares her wisdom on responsive parenting, strong-willed kids, and how to break free from outdated methods like yelling, punishments, and shame-based discipline. We explore the importance of understanding the nervous system's role in reactivity, how to recondition ourselves to respond with intention, and why self-compassion is the secret sauce for every parent.You'll hear personal stories, honest reflections, and powerful tools that can help you move from guilt and overwhelm to more peace, cooperation, and connection at home.✨ In this episode, we cover:Why midlife stress makes parenting even harder—and what to do about itHow to parent without yelling (yes, it's possible!)The truth about strong-willed kids and how to empower themWhat your nervous system has to do with your parenting reactionsThe harmful loop of perfectionism and shame—and how to exit itSimple mindset and communication tools to reduce power strugglesThe power of modeling instead of controllingHow to forgive yourself and repair with your kidsWhy community and support are essential for modern parentsWhether you're feeling burnt out, disconnected, or just want some new tools in your parenting toolbox—this conversation is for you.About Wendy Snyder:Wendy is a mom of two, certified parenting educator, and family life coach. Through her work at Fresh Start Family, she teaches connection-based positive parenting strategies that help families thrive. Her coaching and courses help parents ditch harsh discipline tactics in favor of joyful, confident parenting rooted in love, growth, and mutual respect.Resources & Links:
WGN Radio host and pet expert Steve Dale joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to explain what “designer dogs” are, why they’re not all hypo-allergenic, and if mutts tend to be healthier. He also shares information about dog DNA testing kits and why more young people are choosing to have pets over having children.
President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau Steve Bernas joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to talk about password safety and moving scams. He also shares details about a scam concerning robo-callers and paying a bill with gift cards.
CNET editor at large Scott Stein joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to talk about the Nintendo Switch 2 preorders and what the new system is capable of. He also discusses some of the games he’s tried out on it and if it’s worth buying.
Stephanie Lulay, Executive editor and Co-Founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. She provides details on: Uber Wrongfully Charged Riders Downtown Congestion Fee For Months: After Block Club reached out to Uber about customers complaining they'd been charged city congestion fees outside of allotted […]
Dean Richards, entertainment reporter for WGN, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to provide the latest news in entertainment. Wendy and Dean talk about Tony Awards nominations and Martin Scorsese’s documentary about Pope Francis. They also share details about Michael Bolton’s cancer diagnosis and Sheryl Crow’s home invader.
Shamus Toomey, Editor in Chief and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. Shamus has details on: New DuSable Park Plans Would Bring A Boardwalk, Lush Greenery To The Lakefront: The park's design pays homage to Chicago's founder and first non-Indigenous Black settler, Jean […]
Anna Davlantes, WGN Radio's investigative correspondent, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to share what happened this week in Chicago history. Stories include the reveal of Al Capone’s vault, the Bears’ draft pick of 1975, and the debut of the Grand Prize Game on “Bozo’s Circus.”
Bob Zeni, the Chicago Tomato Man, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to talk about the perfect time to plant tomatoes and the definition of a true “heirloom” tomato. He also answers listeners’ questions, like how to keep squirrels away from your garden and how often you should water tomato plants.
Dean Richards, entertainment reporter for WGN, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to provide the latest news in entertainment. Wendy and Dean talk about a revelation in Jeremy Renner’s memoir and why Terrence Howard turned down a role in the Marvin Gaye biopic. They also share details about Martin Short’s new hosting gig and […]
Karen Conti, Chicago trial attorney, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to talk about President Trump’s executive orders against multiple law firms and why a Milwaukee judge was arrested. She also explains whether or not the death penalty is considered for people with mental impairment and the start of P Diddy’s trial.
Ron Onesti, CEO of Onesti Entertainment, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to talk about some upcoming shows, including Justin Hayward and Ace Frehley. He also shares details about the reopening of the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame and the Studio 64 dance parties at the Arcada Theatre.
In this special Easter episode, Wendy Snyder opens her heart wide to share a deeply personal reflection on what has died and what has come alive in her heart, home, and business over the past year. With themes of rebirth, courage, faith, grief, advocacy, and radical love, Wendy invites listeners into her evolving journey as a Christ-centered parent and leader. This episode is both a sacred pause and a powerful encouragement to stop hiding, start rising, and live more fully in alignment with your convictions—even when it's hard. Wendy speaks candidly about what it means to let go of people-pleasing, find deeper nervous system peace, and embrace faith that feels safe, affirming, and inclusive. Whether you've walked a similar path or are simply curious about what it looks like to stand strong in your values while continuing to grow and heal, this episode will touch your heart and spark important reflection. It's an invitation to rise into new life with grace, grit, and bold compassion. For links & more info about everything discussed in this episode, head to www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/272 Join Kate Northrup for her FREE 3-day financial healing, Good With Money workshop that starts April 17th! Head to https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/goodwithmoney to register. Catch this full episode on YouTube! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Author Jayne Mattingly joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to discuss her new book, “This Is Body Grief: Making Peace with the Loss That Comes with Living in a Body.” Jayne talks about the moment her ‘body stopped working,’ how her life changed when she lost the ability to walk, why we are […]
Bob Bertog, president of Bertog Landscape Co. in Wheeling and a certified landscape professional with the National Association of Landscape Professionals, joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to answer all of your lawn and garden questions.
Musician John Cowsill joins Wendy Snyder to talk about his original band The Cowsills, how the band was the inspiration for ‘The Partridge Family,’ the new music he recorded with his wife Vicki Peterson (The Bangles), his appearance on the Tommy Tutone classic, ‘867-5309/Jenny,’ his work with the Beach Boys, and being one of the […]
Musician John Cowsill joins Wendy Snyder to talk about his original band The Cowsills, how the band was the inspiration for ‘The Partridge Family,’ the new music he recorded with his wife Vicki Peterson (The Bangles), his appearance on the Tommy Tutone classic, ‘867-5309/Jenny,’ his work with the Beach Boys, and being one of the […]
Author Jayne Mattingly joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to discuss her new book, “This Is Body Grief: Making Peace with the Loss That Comes with Living in a Body.” Jayne talks about the moment her ‘body stopped working,’ how her life changed when she lost the ability to walk, why we are […]
Bob Bertog, president of Bertog Landscape Co. in Wheeling and a certified landscape professional with the National Association of Landscape Professionals, joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to answer all of your lawn and garden questions.
Bob Bertog, president of Bertog Landscape Co. in Wheeling and a certified landscape professional with the National Association of Landscape Professionals, joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to answer all of your lawn and garden questions.
Author Jayne Mattingly joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to discuss her new book, “This Is Body Grief: Making Peace with the Loss That Comes with Living in a Body.” Jayne talks about the moment her ‘body stopped working,’ how her life changed when she lost the ability to walk, why we are […]
Musician John Cowsill joins Wendy Snyder to talk about his original band The Cowsills, how the band was the inspiration for ‘The Partridge Family,’ the new music he recorded with his wife Vicki Peterson (The Bangles), his appearance on the Tommy Tutone classic, ‘867-5309/Jenny,’ his work with the Beach Boys, and being one of the […]
Bob Zeni, aka the Chicago Tomato Man, joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to talk about his new online store, what we should look for when buying tomatoes, the different varietals of tomatoes they sell, and when should we get our tomato seeds in the ground.
Alexander Zalben, Host / Producer, Comic Book Club, joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to discuss the TV shows you need to be watching right now. Alexander talks about ‘The White Lotus,’ ‘The Righteous Gemstones,’ ‘The Pitt,’ ‘The Residence,’ and ‘Severance.’
Steve Bernas, President & CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois, joins guest host Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to talk about the riskiest scams of the year including investment / cryptocurrency scams.
The great Mr. Fix-It, Lou Manfredini, joins guest host Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to tell us the projects we need to be working on this week. And as always, Lou answers all of your home improvement questions. Listen to HouseSmarts Radio on WGN each Saturday morning at 6 am.
The great Mr. Fix-It, Lou Manfredini, joins guest host Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to tell us the projects we need to be working on this week. And as always, Lou answers all of your home improvement questions. Listen to HouseSmarts Radio on WGN each Saturday morning at 6 am.
Steve Bernas, President & CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois, joins guest host Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to talk about the riskiest scams of the year including investment / cryptocurrency scams.
Alexander Zalben, Host / Producer, Comic Book Club, joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to discuss the TV shows you need to be watching right now. Alexander talks about ‘The White Lotus,’ ‘The Righteous Gemstones,’ ‘The Pitt,’ ‘The Residence,’ and ‘Severance.’
Bob Zeni, aka the Chicago Tomato Man, joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to talk about his new online store, what we should look for when buying tomatoes, the different varietals of tomatoes they sell, and when should we get our tomato seeds in the ground.
The great Mr. Fix-It, Lou Manfredini, joins guest host Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to tell us the projects we need to be working on this week. And as always, Lou answers all of your home improvement questions. Listen to HouseSmarts Radio on WGN each Saturday morning at 6 am.
Steve Bernas, President & CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois, joins guest host Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to talk about the riskiest scams of the year including investment / cryptocurrency scams.
Alexander Zalben, Host / Producer, Comic Book Club, joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to discuss the TV shows you need to be watching right now. Alexander talks about ‘The White Lotus,’ ‘The Righteous Gemstones,’ ‘The Pitt,’ ‘The Residence,’ and ‘Severance.’
Bob Zeni, aka the Chicago Tomato Man, joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to talk about his new online store, what we should look for when buying tomatoes, the different varietals of tomatoes they sell, and when should we get our tomato seeds in the ground.
Segment 1: Ilyce Glink, owner of Think Glink Media and Best Money Moves, joins Wendy Snyder to talk about cuts to the Social Security office and what that could mean for your benefits, and President Trump reportedly softening his tariff stance. Segment 2: Jim Dallke, Director of Communications, TechNexus Venture Collaborative, tells Wendy about Chicago insurance tech startup Kin seeking opportunities in […]
Wendy Snyder, in for Lisa Dent, checks in with the newsroom to hear their stories.
Jeff Haydon, President and CEO of Ravinia, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Lisa Dent, to discuss Ravinia’s 2025 schedule. Haydon teases acts like Cynthia Erivo, “Weird Al” Yankovic, and Morgan Freeman.
Ezra Watland, Chief Operating Officer at Get Covered Illinois, joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for Jon Hansen, to discuss what qualifies as special enrollment periods for getting health insurance. Ezra shares how to shop for health insurance, financial help in the form of tax credits, and more. To enroll or find a plan, visit getcovered.illinois.gov
Brian Hoogeveen, The Cash Man from Americash Jewelry & Coin Buyers, joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for Jon Hansen, to discuss the benefits of getting an in-store appraisal. This week, listeners talked about their silver dollars, Michael Jordan autographs, and book collections. If you have items you'd like to have appraised, visit topcashbuyer.com or call (630) 969-9600.
We started off this week's show by chatting with Center Guard Plumbing's Mike Epping about servicing your water spigot before spring. Next, BluSky Restoration Contractors' Business Development Manager Pete Marrero joined the show to talk about the home restoration process. Then, Amer Khan, a Design and Energy Expert with Next Door & Window shares signs […]
In this heartwarming and insightful episode of The Fresh Start Family Show, Wendy Snyder sits down with Nicole Jackson—a nurse, devoted mama, and social media sensation known for her hilarious and relatable parenting videos. Together, they dive into the power of setting firm, loving boundaries with kids in a way that fosters connection instead of conflict. Get ready for laughter, real talk, and game-changing advice that will help you lead with both strength and empathy in your parenting journey. Nicole opens up about life as a single mom raising her 13-year-old son, sharing personal stories and hard-earned lessons that highlight the beauty (and chaos!) of modern parenting. Wendy and Nicole break down what it truly means to balance kindness with firmness—so you can raise confident, self-sufficient kids without power struggles. Plus, hear firsthand how Nicole's son views their relationship, giving you a refreshing perspective on parenting that actually works. If you're looking for practical tips with a dose of humor and heart, this episode is for you! For links & more info about everything discussed in this episode, head to www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/262 Grab our signature Firm & Kind Parenting Blueprint - the perfect start to a new year! And don't forget to check us out on YouTube! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this heartfelt episode, Wendy Snyder dives into the power of community in parenting, inspired by Mother Teresa's wisdom that peace begins at home. Parenting isn't meant to be a solo journey, and Wendy warmly reminds us how vital it is to have a village of support. Through personal stories, uplifting client successes, and insights from thought leaders like Brené Brown, she reveals how connection can replace the isolation so many parents feel. Wendy shares three transformational reasons why a strong support system is essential for positive parenting. You'll learn how connection helps heal us, why relationships are key to learning, and how breaking generational cycles becomes possible when we lean on others. With practical examples and compassionate encouragement, this episode inspires parents to move beyond traditional autocratic styles and embrace the beauty of raising kids with kindness, courage, and a little help from their village. For links & more info about everything discussed in this episode, head to www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/261 Could you use a little support with parenting? The Fresh Start Experience full support program is open for enrollment for a very limited time! Learn more at: https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/jointoday Don't forget to check us out on YouTube! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices