KZ Community Beat

KZ Community Beat - President of The Peoria Public School Board - Dr Gregory Wilson

This week on Community Beat, Ross sits down with Gregory Wilson, the President of the Peoria Public Schools Board of Education, for a conversation rooted in leadership, transparency, and unity. From his beginnings as the youngest African American elected to the board to now leading it, Gregory opens up about what drives him, his passion for equity, his commitment to students, and his vision for a stronger, more connected Peoria. Together, they talk about the real challenges shaping local education, from academic performance and absenteeism to trust, safety, and community involvement,  and how change starts with communication, not confrontation. The conversation also takes a powerful turn toward hip-hop’s influence on youth development, reflecting on how artists like KRS-One, De La Soul, and Chance the Rapper uplift and inspire, while exploring the flip side, how drill rap’s pain and realism mirror what young people are living through today. This isn’t a debate. It’s a dialogue,  a reminder that when schools, parents, and culture work together, the future starts to sound a whole lot better. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

KZ Community Beat - GBC Autism Services

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

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

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

KZ Community Beat - El Morning Chou - The Voice of Peoria's Latino Community

This episode is about representation, resistance, and real talk. Ross sits down with Christell Frausto and Andy Fremac, the host of El Morning Chou — Peoria’s first Latino-programmed radio show — for a bilingual, boundary-breaking conversation about the rise of the Latino community in Central Illinois, and the weight of being seen and heard. Together, they explore: - The power of Latino voices in local media - The growing Latino population in Peoria - The heartbreaking cancellation of El Fiesta en el Rio due to fear from ICE activity -  And why the microphone, in the right hands, can change everything This episode was recorded in both Spanish and English to reflect the culture, the emotion, and the truth of this community — and to break the barrier of “us vs. them” across radio brands, audiences, and assumptions. It’s not just a podcast. It’s a moment. It’s history. And it’s still being written. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

KZ Community Beat - KZ Cares - Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter

Ross sits down with Daryl Carlson of the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter to talk about the disease that affects millions — including Ross’ own family. His grandmother passed in 2009 after battling Alzheimer’s, dementia, and cancer. So this isn’t just a spotlight — it’s a tribute. Together, they dive into the emotional toll this disease takes on families, how to recognize early warning signs, and the resources available right here in Peoria. They also talk about the upcoming Walk to End Alzheimer’s, where Ross will serve as emcee. This episode is for the generation watching their parents — or grandparents — slowly change, unsure of what to do, who to ask, or how to even talk about it. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.