Greg and Dan talk with Morgan DeGroot, Raynah Unes-Reid, and Lavender Critz about Morgan Needs an Organ, the community effort supporting Morgan as she searches for a kidney donor and navigates her transplant journey. Morgan shares her personal story, including the challenges she has faced and experiencing dissociation while dealing with everything surrounding her health and search for a donor. Lavender offers her perspective as Morgan’s sister and caregiver, while Raynah discusses why she became involved and how she helped create the Morgan Needs an Organ Benefit Series to support her best friend. They reflect on the different fundraising events the community has rallied around and preview their biggest upcoming event, Morgan’s Kidney Harvest Festival, happening Saturday, October 3 from noon–9 p.m. at Friendly Valley Tavern in Peoria. 

Greg and Dan talk with Morgan DeGroot, Raynah Unes-Reid, and Lavender Critz about Morgan Needs an Organ, the community effort supporting Morgan as she searches for a kidney donor and navigates her transplant journey. Morgan shares her personal story, including the challenges she has faced and experiencing dissociation while dealing with everything surrounding her health and search for a donor. Lavender offers her perspective as Morgan&rsquo;s sister and caregiver, while Raynah discusses why she became involved and how she helped create the Morgan Needs an Organ Benefit Series to support her best friend. They reflect on the different fundraising events the community has rallied around and preview their biggest upcoming event, Morgan&rsquo;s Kidney Harvest Festival, happening Saturday, October 3 from noon&ndash;9 p.m. at Friendly Valley Tavern in Peoria.&nbsp;

Morgan’s Kidney Harvest Festival!

Greg and Dan talk with Cody Birely, physical therapist and Founder and President of Prairieland Adaptive, about the organization’s mission to expand access to adaptive sports, recreation, and fitness for individuals with physical disabilities and visual impairments throughout Central Illinois. He shares how his background in physical therapy and neurological rehabilitation, along with years of volunteering in adaptive sports, inspired him to create the organization and help people remain active and connected beyond traditional therapy. He also previews the second annual Adapt and Conquer Expo, happening Saturday, September 26 from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. at Bradley University’s Markin Family Student Recreation Center. He discusses why building community is at the heart of Prairieland Adaptive and the importance of creating opportunities for people of all abilities to discover new activities, make connections and see what is possible.

For more information, visit Prairieland Adaptive

Greg and Dan talk with Cody Birely, physical therapist and Founder and President of Prairieland Adaptive, about the organization&rsquo;s mission to expand access to adaptive sports, recreation, and fitness for individuals with physical disabilities and visual impairments throughout Central Illinois. He shares how his background in physical therapy and neurological rehabilitation, along with years of volunteering in adaptive sports, inspired him to create the organization and help people remain active and connected beyond traditional therapy. He also previews the second annual Adapt and Conquer Expo, happening Saturday, September 26 from 11 a.m.&ndash;3 p.m. at Bradley University&rsquo;s Markin Family Student Recreation Center. He&nbsp;discusses why building community is at the heart of Prairieland Adaptive and the importance of creating opportunities for people of all abilities to discover new activities, make connections and see what is possible.
For more information, visit <a href="https://www.prairielandadaptive.org?utm_source=chatgpt.com" aria-describedby="radix-_r_95_">Prairieland Adaptive</a>

Building an Adaptive Community!

Greg and Dan talk with Pete McMurray of the Brothers’ McMurray Family Charity about the McMurray family’s personal journey with cancer and how those experiences inspired them to turn their family’s strength into a mission to help others. He shares the story of growing up as one of 12 McMurray siblings and how cancer has directly affected their family, including four siblings who are cancer survivors. He also previews the 4th Annual McTOBERFEST, happening Saturday, September 26 from 3–6 p.m. at Jimmy’s Bar, 2801 W. Farmington Road in West Peoria. The annual fundraiser brings the community together to raise money for cancer research and patient care while enjoying an Oktoberfest-inspired afternoon for a cause. He also talks about his own career in broadcasting, his passion for connecting with listeners, and his Saturday shows on WMBD.

For more information about the family’s mission and McTOBERFEST, visit Brothers’ McMurray Family Charity.

Greg and Dan talk with Pete McMurray of the Brothers&rsquo; McMurray Family Charity about the McMurray family&rsquo;s personal journey with cancer and how those experiences inspired them to turn their family&rsquo;s strength into a mission to help others. He shares the story of growing up as one of 12 McMurray siblings and how cancer has directly affected their family, including four siblings who are cancer survivors. He also previews the 4th Annual McTOBERFEST, happening Saturday, September 26 from 3&ndash;6 p.m. at Jimmy&rsquo;s Bar, 2801 W. Farmington Road in West Peoria. The annual fundraiser brings the community together to raise money for cancer research and patient care while enjoying an Oktoberfest-inspired afternoon for a cause. He also talks about his own career in broadcasting, his passion for connecting with listeners, and his Saturday shows on WMBD.
For more information about the family&rsquo;s mission and McTOBERFEST, visit <a href="https://brothersmcmurray.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">Brothers&rsquo; McMurray Family Charity</a>.

The McMurray Family Mission!

Greg and Dan talk with Shawn Degenhart of GospelFest Ministries about the upcoming A Country Gospel Fest, happening Saturday, September 26. He shares the story behind how the show came together and what inspired the country-gospel theme, along with what audiences can expect from the performance. He highlights the choir and live band that help bring the music to life and talks about the musicians, arrangements, and faith-centered message behind the show. He also discusses GospelFest Ministries and its continued mission of bringing people together through uplifting live music and community!

For more information about the show and GospelFest Ministries, visit GospelFest Ministries

Greg and Dan talk with Shawn Degenhart of GospelFest Ministries about the upcoming A Country Gospel Fest, happening Saturday, September 26. He shares the story behind how the show came together and what inspired the country-gospel theme, along with what audiences can expect from the performance. He highlights the choir and live band that help bring the music to life and talks about the musicians, arrangements, and faith-centered message behind the show. He also discusses GospelFest Ministries and its continued mission of bringing people together through uplifting live music and community!
For more information about the show and GospelFest Ministries, visit <a href="https://www.gospelfestministries.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com" aria-describedby="radix-_r_cu_">GospelFest Ministries</a>

A Country Gospel Fest!

Greg and Dan talk with author and testicular cancer survivor Brian Sluga about his memoir, The Shriek I Do Remember: Winning the Race of Life and Other Stories, which tells the story of being diagnosed with testicular cancer at just 20 years old while he was a college athlete. He shares the background behind the book, what life was like when he received his diagnosis, and the fear, uncertainty, faith, and emotional challenges he experienced throughout his cancer journey and recovery. He also discusses his passion for writing and his other books and previews his upcoming appearance at the River City Reading Room on Saturday, September 26 from 2-4 p.m., where he’ll discuss his journey and sign copies of his book. 

For more information about Brian and his books, visit Brian Sluga’s official website.

Greg and Dan talk with author and testicular cancer survivor Brian Sluga about his memoir, The Shriek I Do Remember: Winning the Race of Life and Other Stories, which tells the story of being diagnosed with testicular cancer at just 20 years old while he was a college athlete. He shares the background behind the book, what life was like when he received his diagnosis, and the fear, uncertainty, faith, and emotional challenges he experienced throughout his cancer journey and recovery. He also discusses his passion for writing and his other books and&nbsp;previews his upcoming appearance at the River City Reading Room on Saturday, September 26 from 2-4 p.m., where he&rsquo;ll discuss his journey and sign copies of his book.&nbsp;
For more information about Brian and his books, visit <a href="https://briansluga.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">Brian Sluga&rsquo;s official website</a>.

The Shriek I Do Remember!

Greg and Dan talk with Megan Scott, Executive Director of the Peoria Art Guild, about the 64th Annual Peoria Art Guild Fine Art Fair, happening Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27 at Riverfront Festival Park in Peoria. She previews a weekend that feels like a full arts festival, bringing together more than 100 artists, along with live music and performances, local food and drinks, a Kids Art Festival and other interactive experiences. She also highlights this year’s poster and community mural artist, Merrell Hickey, whose colorful beadwork inspired elements of the weekend. The Fine Art Fair is also the Art Guild’s major annual fundraiser, supporting its exhibitions, classes, community outreach and art programming throughout the year.

Greg and Dan talk with Megan Scott, Executive Director of the Peoria Art Guild, about the 64th Annual Peoria Art Guild Fine Art Fair, happening Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27 at Riverfront Festival Park in Peoria. She previews a weekend that feels like a full arts festival, bringing together more than 100 artists, along with live music and performances, local food and drinks, a Kids Art Festival and other interactive experiences. She also highlights this year&rsquo;s poster and community mural artist, Merrell Hickey, whose colorful beadwork inspired elements of the weekend.&nbsp;The Fine Art Fair is also the Art Guild&rsquo;s major annual fundraiser, supporting its exhibitions, classes, community outreach and art programming throughout the year.

Fine Art Fair!

Greg and Dan talk with Chris Setti, CEO of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council, about the many festivals and community events recently held throughout Central Illinois and why they can play an important role in local economic development. He discusses how festivals bring people into communities, support local businesses, and give the region an opportunity to showcase its personality, culture, and quality of life. He also talks about the importance of continuing to invest in new ideas, entrepreneurs, and businesses and how creating vibrant communities where people want to spend time can contribute to the region’s overall growth and success.

Greg and Dan talk with Chris Setti, CEO of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council, about the many festivals and community events recently held throughout Central Illinois and why they can play an important role in local economic development. He discusses how festivals bring people into communities, support local businesses, and give the region an opportunity to showcase its personality, culture, and quality of life.&nbsp;He also talks about the importance of continuing to invest in new ideas, entrepreneurs, and businesses and how creating vibrant communities where people want to spend time can contribute to the region&rsquo;s overall growth and success.

Celebrating & Investing Local!

Greg and Dan talk with Dave Johnson of Pearl Technology about the growing role of artificial intelligence in technology people already use every day, including Ring cameras and Amazon Alexa. He explains how Ring uses AI for features such as Familiar Faces, which can recognize enrolled frequent visitors, as well as Search Party, which uses nearby Ring cameras and AI to look for possible matches when a dog is reported missing. He also discusses Ring’s previously announced connection with Flock Safety; the companies planned an integration in 2025 but canceled it in February 2026 before it ever launched, meaning Ring customer videos were never sent to Flock through that integration. He also explains how Alexa uses AI, including voice recognition and newer integrations with Ring, and uses these familiar technologies to illustrate just how embedded AI has become in everyday life.

Greg and Dan talk with Dave Johnson of Pearl Technology about the growing role of artificial intelligence in technology people already use every day, including Ring cameras and Amazon Alexa. He explains how Ring uses AI for features such as Familiar Faces, which can recognize enrolled frequent visitors, as well as Search Party, which uses nearby Ring cameras and AI to look for possible matches when a dog is reported missing. He also discusses Ring&rsquo;s previously announced connection with Flock Safety; the companies planned an integration in 2025 but canceled it in February 2026 before it ever launched, meaning Ring customer videos were never sent to Flock through that integration. He also explains how Alexa uses AI, including voice recognition and newer integrations with Ring, and uses these familiar technologies to illustrate just how embedded AI has become in everyday life.

AI in Everyday Life!

Greg and Dan talk to Bret Johnson & Art Karaganis about the Rock and Roll Reunion from this past weekend! 

Greg and Dan talk to Bret Johnson &amp; Art Karaganis about the Rock and Roll Reunion from this past weekend!&nbsp;

Rock and Roll Reunion!

Greg and Dan talk with Kitty Yanko, Director of the Peoria Humane Society, about the 30th Annual Bark in the Park, happening Saturday, September 26 from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. at Tower Park in Peoria Heights. She previews what animal lovers can expect from one of the Humane Society’s largest annual fundraisers, including the Marvelous Mutt Show, dog games, a parade, cake walk, souvenir photos, pet-related exhibitors, rescue groups, raffle baskets, food vendors and more. She also discusses what makes the 30th anniversary special and how money raised through Bark in the Park supports animals throughout the Peoria area, helping provide medical and rehabilitation care, pet food assistance, spay and neuter programs, adoption efforts and humane education.

Greg and Dan talk with Kitty Yanko, Director of the Peoria Humane Society, about the 30th Annual Bark in the Park, happening Saturday, September 26 from 10 a.m.&ndash;1 p.m. at Tower Park in Peoria Heights. She previews what animal lovers can expect from one of the Humane Society&rsquo;s largest annual fundraisers, including the Marvelous Mutt Show, dog games, a parade, cake walk, souvenir photos, pet-related exhibitors, rescue groups, raffle baskets, food vendors and more. She also discusses what makes the 30th anniversary special and how money raised through Bark in the Park supports animals throughout the Peoria area, helping provide medical and rehabilitation care, pet food assistance, spay and neuter programs, adoption efforts and humane education.

Bark in the Park!

Missed an interview? Hear an interview that's so good you want to listen to it again? Have no fear! Listen to every interview from each day on The Greg and Dan Show!

Missed an interview? Hear an interview that's so good you want to listen to it again? Have no fear! Listen to every interview from each day on The Greg and Dan Show!

Greg & Dan Show Interviews

Greg and Dan talk with Gene Olson, Director of Airports for the Metropolitan Airport Authority of Peoria, about his firsthand experience working in airport operations on September 11, 2001. At the time, Olson was Director of Operations at Evansville Regional Airport, and he recalls the morning of the attacks, receiving calls from air traffic control, and the unprecedented decision to halt air traffic across the country. He walks through what it took to shut down airport operations, secure runways and terminals, sweep the building, and respond as the aviation industry faced a situation unlike anything it had experienced before. He also reflects on how airport security and procedures changed in the aftermath and how long it took for many of the new rules and systems travelers know today to take shape.

Greg and Dan talk with Gene Olson, Director of Airports for the Metropolitan Airport Authority of Peoria, about his firsthand experience working in airport operations on September 11, 2001. At the time, Olson was Director of Operations at Evansville Regional Airport, and he recalls the morning of the attacks, receiving calls from air traffic control, and the unprecedented decision to halt air traffic across the country. He walks through what it took to shut down airport operations, secure runways and terminals, sweep the building, and respond as the aviation industry faced a situation unlike anything it had experienced before. He also reflects on how airport security and procedures changed in the aftermath and how long it took for many of the new rules and systems travelers know today to take shape.

When the Skies Went Quiet

Greg and Dan talk with former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, one of the featured speakers at today’s 25th Anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. He reflects on his own memories and experiences surrounding September 11, 2001, and how the attacks changed the country. He also shares his thoughts on America’s role in leading through diplomacy, the importance of unity and public service, and why the lives lost and sacrifices made that day must continue to be remembered by future generations.

Greg and Dan talk with former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, one of the featured speakers at today&rsquo;s 25th Anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. He reflects on his own memories and experiences surrounding September 11, 2001, and how the attacks changed the country. He also shares his thoughts on America&rsquo;s role in leading through diplomacy, the importance of unity and public service, and why the lives lost and sacrifices made that day must continue to be remembered by future generations.

We Will Always Remember

Greg and Dan talk with Eddie and Tracy Sutter about their deeply personal connection to September 11, 2001—the day their twin babies were born. They recall the events of that morning, what they remember seeing and hearing as the attacks unfolded, and the emotions of welcoming two new lives into the world on a day marked by unimaginable tragedy. Now, 25 years later, they reflect on that unique mixture of joy and heartbreak and the reminder that even during the darkest moments, life goes on.

Greg and Dan talk with Eddie and Tracy Sutter about their deeply personal connection to September 11, 2001&mdash;the day their twin babies were born. They recall the events of that morning, what they remember seeing and hearing as the attacks unfolded, and the emotions of welcoming two new lives into the world on a day marked by unimaginable tragedy. Now, 25 years later, they reflect on that unique mixture of joy and heartbreak and the reminder that even during the darkest moments, life goes on.

New Life Amid Tragedy

Greg and Dan talk with Peoria Fire Chief Shawn Sollberger about today’s 25th Anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, happening at 10 a.m. at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Chief Sollberger, who is serving as honorary chair of the ceremony, reflects on the emotions he experienced on September 11, 2001, when he was just three years into his career as a firefighter, and what was happening within his own fire department as news of the attacks unfolded. He discusses the instincts firefighters develop through their training, the desire to step forward and serve when others are in danger, and what draws people to the profession in the first place. He also addresses criticism firefighters sometimes face and shares his perspective on the commitment, sacrifice, and responsibility that come with the job, while honoring the first responders and nearly 3,000 people whose lives were lost 25 years ago.

Greg and Dan talk with Peoria Fire Chief Shawn Sollberger about today&rsquo;s 25th Anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, happening at 10 a.m. at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Chief Sollberger, who is serving as honorary chair of the ceremony, reflects on the emotions he experienced on September 11, 2001, when he was just three years into his career as a firefighter, and what was happening within his own fire department as news of the attacks unfolded. He discusses the instincts firefighters develop through their training, the desire to step forward and serve when others are in danger, and what draws people to the profession in the first place. He also addresses criticism firefighters sometimes face and shares his perspective on the commitment, sacrifice, and responsibility that come with the job, while honoring the first responders and nearly 3,000 people whose lives were lost 25 years ago.

Through a Firefighter’s Eyes

Greg and Dan talk with David Houseworth, Northern Tazewell Fire Chief and co-chair of the September 11 Remembrance Ceremony Committee, about Washington’s annual September 11 Remembrance Ceremony, taking place Sunday, September 6 at 4 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Helicopter in Washington Park. He discusses what attendees can expect and why remembering the lives lost and sacrifices made on September 11 remains so important to the Washington community, especially as the nation marks the 25th anniversary of the attacks. He also highlights this year’s special guest speaker, U.S. Air Force Major Heather “Lucky” Penney, an F-16 pilot.

Greg and Dan talk with David Houseworth, Northern Tazewell Fire Chief and co-chair of the September 11 Remembrance Ceremony Committee, about Washington&rsquo;s annual September 11 Remembrance Ceremony, taking place Sunday, September 6 at 4 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Helicopter in Washington Park. He discusses what attendees can expect and why remembering the lives lost and sacrifices made on September 11 remains so important to the Washington community, especially as the nation marks the&nbsp;25th anniversary of the attacks. He also highlights this year&rsquo;s special guest speaker, U.S. Air Force Major Heather &ldquo;Lucky&rdquo; Penney, an F-16 pilot.

Washington Remembers 9/11!

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