Tom Appel

On today's show Elliott Serrano ad Ken Mejia-Beal fill in for Patti and their guest is
– Car Guy Tom Appel, host of the Consumer Guide Car Stuff podcast

Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home).

 

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On today's show Elliott Serrano ad Ken Mejia-Beal fill in for Patti and their guest is &ndash; Car Guy Tom Appel, host of the <a href="https://consumerguide.com/car-stuff-podcast/">Consumer Guide Car Stuff podcast</a>
Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home">heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home</a>).
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From Heartland Signal and WCPT AM 820 in Chicago, here are full episodes of "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" (weeknights from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.), a radio talk show devoted to covering the news of the day and connecting listeners with local leaders. 

Patti Vasquez is a Chicago comedian, writer, actor, talk show host, consultant, advocate, and policy adviser. After achieving a degree in history from the University of Illinois, she set out to share her hilarious observations about how people behave, and stories about her second-generation Irish dad and Mexican immigrant mom. Patti has headlined in comedy clubs and colleges all over the U.S., Canada, and Europe, appeared on Nickelodeon, TBS, ABC, The Oprah Winfrey Network, and has a recurring role on NBC’s “Chicago Fire.” When her son Declan was born with a rare neurological disorder, Patti decided to take her communication and performance experience to launch her company “With Kind Words,” in which she helps medical professionals and educators communicate with compassion. For six years, Patti was the first Latina to host her own talk show on WGN Radio 720. In addition to her work as a performer and consultant, Patti began advocating for children and families throughout Illinois and helped restore funding for vital support services after massive cuts were made by former Governor Bruce Rauner. In 2020 she ran to be the state representative of the 19th District.  She is now the health care and human services liaison and assistant policy adviser for Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza.  Patti lives with her family on the Northwest Side of Chicago and continues to advocate for her community.  

From Heartland Signal and <a href="https://heartlandsignal.com/wcpt820/">WCPT AM 820</a> in Chicago, here are full episodes of "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" (weeknights from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.), a radio talk show devoted to covering the news of the day and connecting listeners with local leaders.&nbsp;
Patti Vasquez is a Chicago comedian, writer, actor, talk show host, consultant, advocate, and policy adviser. After achieving a degree in history from the University of Illinois, she set out to share her hilarious observations about how people behave, and stories about her second-generation Irish dad and Mexican immigrant mom. Patti has headlined in comedy clubs and colleges all over the U.S., Canada, and Europe, appeared on Nickelodeon, TBS, ABC, The Oprah Winfrey Network, and has a recurring role on NBC&rsquo;s &ldquo;Chicago Fire.&rdquo; When her son Declan was born with a rare neurological disorder, Patti decided to take her communication and performance experience to launch her company &ldquo;With Kind Words,&rdquo; in which she helps medical professionals and educators communicate with compassion. For six years, Patti was the first Latina to host her own talk show on WGN Radio 720. In addition to her work as a performer and consultant, Patti began advocating for children and families throughout Illinois and helped restore funding for vital support services after massive cuts were made by former Governor Bruce Rauner. In 2020 she ran to be the state representative of the 19th District.&nbsp; She is now the health care and human services liaison and assistant policy adviser for Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza.&nbsp; Patti lives with her family on the Northwest Side of Chicago and continues to advocate for her community.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez (Full Episodes)

From Heartland Signal and WCPT AM 820 in Chicago, "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" (weeknights from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central) is a radio talk show devoted to covering the news of the day and connecting listeners with local leaders. 

Patti Vasquez is a Chicago comedian, writer, actor, talk show host, consultant, advocate, and policy adviser. After achieving a degree in history from the University of Illinois, she set out to share her hilarious observations about how people behave, and stories about her second-generation Irish dad and Mexican immigrant mom. Patti has headlined in comedy clubs and colleges all over the U.S., Canada, and Europe, appeared on Nickelodeon, TBS, ABC, The Oprah Winfrey Network, and has a recurring role on NBC’s “Chicago Fire.” When her son Declan was born with a rare neurological disorder, Patti decided to take her communication and performance experience to launch her company “With Kind Words,” in which she helps medical professionals and educators communicate with compassion.

For six years, Patti was the first Latina to host her own talk show on WGN Radio 720. In addition to her work as a performer and consultant, Patti began advocating for children and families throughout Illinois and helped restore funding for vital support services after massive cuts were made by former Governor Bruce Rauner. In 2020 she ran to be the state representative of the 19th District.  She is now the health care and human services liaison and assistant policy adviser for Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza.  Patti lives with her family on the Northwest Side of Chicago and continues to advocate for her community.  

From Heartland Signal and <a href="https://heartlandsignal.com/wcpt820/">WCPT AM 820</a> in Chicago, "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" (weeknights from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central) is a radio talk show devoted to covering the news of the day and connecting listeners with local leaders.&nbsp;
Patti Vasquez is a Chicago comedian, writer, actor, talk show host, consultant, advocate, and policy adviser. After achieving a degree in history from the University of Illinois, she set out to share her hilarious observations about how people behave, and stories about her second-generation Irish dad and Mexican immigrant mom. Patti has headlined in comedy clubs and colleges all over the U.S., Canada, and Europe, appeared on Nickelodeon, TBS, ABC, The Oprah Winfrey Network, and has a recurring role on NBC&rsquo;s &ldquo;Chicago Fire.&rdquo; When her son Declan was born with a rare neurological disorder, Patti decided to take her communication and performance experience to launch her company &ldquo;With Kind Words,&rdquo; in which she helps medical professionals and educators communicate with compassion.
For six years, Patti was the first Latina to host her own talk show on WGN Radio 720. In addition to her work as a performer and consultant, Patti began advocating for children and families throughout Illinois and helped restore funding for vital support services after massive cuts were made by former Governor Bruce Rauner. In 2020 she ran to be the state representative of the 19th District.&nbsp; She is now the health care and human services liaison and assistant policy adviser for Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza.&nbsp; Patti lives with her family on the Northwest Side of Chicago and continues to advocate for her community.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez

Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez with guest hosts Elliott Serrano and Ken Mejia-Beal | August 26, 2026

On today's show Elliott Serrano fills in for Patti with guest co-host Ken Mejia-Beal and their guests are
– Stormy Daniels, who will be doing a special event at Zanies Rosemont, Monday, August 31
– Greg O’Neil of Q Force Midwest Action Group
– Kyle Stern, president of the West Suburban Teachers Union, Local 571

Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home).

On today's show&nbsp;Elliott Serrano fills in for Patti with guest co-host Ken Mejia-Beal and their guests are &ndash; Stormy Daniels, who will be doing a&nbsp;<a href="https://rosemont.zanies.com/show/stormy-daniels-special-event/zanies-comedy-club-rosemont/rosemont-illinois/">special event at Zanies Rosemont</a>, Monday, August 31 &ndash;&nbsp;Greg O&rsquo;Neil of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.qforce.org/">Q Force Midwest Action Group</a> &ndash; Kyle Stern, president of the West Suburban Teachers Union, Local 571
Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home).

Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez with guest hosts Elliott Serrano and Ken Mejia-Beal | August 27, 2026

Filling in for Patti Vasquez, Paul Chivari and guest co-host Ken Mejia-Beal are joined by Paul Nolley, candidate for Congress in the 16th District of Illinois.

Campaign Status and Geography
- Nolley notes that the district's vast geography makes door-to-door campaigning a significant challenge.
- Despite the difficult political terrain in the 16th District, currently held by Republican Darin LaHood, Nolley expresses high confidence in his ability to win this cycle.

Nolley's Professional Background
- Nolley grew up in the Rockford area and has spent much of his career with nonprofit organizations.
- He has worked with faith-based groups on youth literacy and fundraising for organizations like Habitat for Humanity and United Way.
- For the last six years, he has served as the executive director of a labor management organization focused on construction apprenticeships.

Motivations for Running
- Nolley decided to run for office after discussing potential political shifts with his wife.
- He wants to provide a working-class contrast to the incumbent, who comes from a politically powerful family.
- His primary goal is to offer a new vision that helps working-class citizens improve their lives.

Legislative Priorities and Goals
- Nolley aims to address corruption and backroom deals within the government 
- He supports national redistricting reform and overturning Citizens United to reduce dark money influence.
- Other priorities include industrial policy for manufacturing hubs like Rockford and making health care more affordable via Medicare expansion and Affordable Care Act tax credits.

Political Support and Voter Issues
- The Democratic Party of Illinois has designated Nolley's race as a targeted campaign with its potential to turn blue.  
- In voter outreach, Nolley reports that economic anxiety regarding future opportunities for younger generations is a primary concern.
- He also hears frequent mentions of health care costs, war impacts, and general societal instability from both Democrats and Republicans.

Debate Participation and Engagement
- Nolley reports that LaHood hasn't held an in-person town hall in nine years.
- A candidate forum is confirmed for October 5 in Peoria, but a direct debate remains unconfirmed by LaHood's team.
- Supporters can get involved or donate via his official website at paulnolley.com.

Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home).

 

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Filling in for Patti Vasquez, Paul Chivari and guest co-host Ken Mejia-Beal are joined by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nolleyforcongress.com/">Paul Nolley</a>, candidate for Congress in the 16th District of Illinois.
Campaign Status and Geography - Nolley notes that the district's vast geography makes door-to-door campaigning a significant challenge. - Despite the difficult political terrain in the 16th District, currently held by Republican Darin LaHood, Nolley expresses high confidence in his ability to win this cycle. Nolley's Professional Background - Nolley grew up in the Rockford area and has spent much of his career with nonprofit organizations. - He has worked with faith-based groups on youth literacy and fundraising for organizations like Habitat for Humanity and United Way. - For the last six years, he has served as the executive director of a labor management organization focused on construction apprenticeships. Motivations for Running - Nolley decided to run for office after discussing potential political shifts with his wife. - He wants to provide a working-class contrast to the incumbent, who comes from a politically powerful family. - His primary goal is to offer a new vision that helps working-class citizens improve their lives. Legislative Priorities and Goals - Nolley aims to address corruption and backroom deals within the government&nbsp; - He supports national redistricting reform and overturning Citizens United to reduce dark money influence. - Other priorities include industrial policy for manufacturing hubs like Rockford and making health care more affordable via Medicare expansion and Affordable Care Act tax credits. Political Support and Voter Issues - The Democratic Party of Illinois has designated Nolley's race as a targeted campaign with its potential to turn blue.&nbsp;&nbsp; - In voter outreach, Nolley reports that economic anxiety regarding future opportunities for younger generations is a primary concern. - He also hears frequent mentions of health care costs, war impacts, and general societal instability from both Democrats and Republicans. Debate Participation and Engagement - Nolley reports that LaHood hasn't held an in-person town hall in nine years. - A candidate forum is confirmed for October 5 in Peoria, but a direct debate remains unconfirmed by LaHood's team. - Supporters can get involved or donate via his official website at <a href="https://www.nolleyforcongress.com/">paulnolley.com</a>.
Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home">heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home</a>).
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WCPT 820 Candidate Interview: Paul Nolley

On today's show Paul Chivari fills in for Patti with guest co-host Ken Mejia-Beal, and their guests are
– Kevin Schmit, associate sports editor of the Daily Herald and columnist; he is a member of the Daily Herald News Guild organizing committee
– Paul Nolley, candidate for Congress in the 16th District of Illinois
– Illinois State Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock, Democrat representing the 46th District
– Tres Savage, editor-in-chief of NonDoc Media

Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home).

 

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On today's show Paul Chivari fills in for Patti with guest co-host Ken Mejia-Beal, and their guests are &ndash; Kevin Schmit, <a href="https://www.dailyherald.com/staff/kevin-schmit/">associate sports editor</a> of the Daily Herald and columnist; he is a member of the <a href="https://cwalocals.org/daily-herald-news-guild">Daily Herald News Guild organizing committee</a> &ndash; <a href="https://www.nolleyforcongress.com/">Paul Nolley</a>, candidate for Congress in the 16th District of Illinois &ndash; Illinois State <a href="https://www.repblair-sherlock.com/">Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock</a>, Democrat representing the 46th District &ndash; <a href="https://nondoc.com/author/savage/">Tres Savage</a>, editor-in-chief of&nbsp;<a href="https://nondoc.com">NonDoc&nbsp;Media</a>
Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home">heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home</a>).
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Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez with guest hosts Elliott Serrano and Ken Mejia-Beal | August 26, 2026

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