Squared Up

In Episode 63 of Swinford Media’s “Squared Up” podcast, we remember Brian Swinford, who passed away unexpectedly this month. We also welcome guest Steve McKeown, who is leading a drive to install a lift to take visitors to the Bald Knob Cross of Peace up for a higher view. Don’t miss this episode of our podcast, which focuses on the best and brightest around our region.

From Swinford Media Group, our “Squared Up” crew meets Emma Bartlett of Marion, who has already qualified to be called on of America’s most artistic kids! And she paints for us! She also guesses Bill’s and Tom’s ages, can you? Meanwhile, Monica shares some adventures in hormone therapy. And, as usual, we talk about the latest in downtown Marion and the region.  “Squared Up" is based on Marion...

In this, the 61st episode of Squared Up, our panel debates the ways that social media harms us and helps us. Bill discusses his recent interview with Marlon Wayans and Monica explains her hat, which gives away her age and other personal information. Tom also shares about his recent workshop where he taught the power of video in marketing. And there’s more in this installment of the Swinford Media...

In this, the 60th episode of “Squared Up” from Swinford Media Group, our podcast couple evaluates their relationship for Valentine’s Day and after 6 months of marriage. Bill wants to know, do they really share and share alike? As always, Tom weighs in on that and many other topics including the planned patriotic drone show, rodeo and concert at Mtn. Dew Park.  “Squared Up" is based on Marion’...

From Swinford Media Group, our “Squared Up” crew talks about drone video capturing and the way it is being used to cover the news and the newest developments in the region. Also, we say goodbye to the Grand Goats, discuss some upcoming events and discuss the Chamber of Commerce awards dinners being held this month and next. “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up...

Marion (IL) Mayor Mike Absher brought some challenging words to the 58th episode of “Squared Up”: “Quit talking and start doing.” He discusses a few of the key people and actions that have turned Marion into one of the highest per-capita retail sales powerhouses in Illinois. Included is a story about a day when – with no plan or materials in place – a group of volunteers and students transformed a...

In this 57th episode of “Squared Up,” our hosts give a Christmas Trivia Quiz. Are you up to the challenge? Play along! Also, Bill tells a story about an attempt someone made to steal his van (!) and the looniness that ensued because of it. Our hosts also tease a Swinford Media Christmas Eve special you can watch. “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on...

In this 56th episode of “Squared Up,” we discuss how to stay healthy for the holidays and look back on another cold night at the Very Merry Marion Christmas Parade. “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on the happenings in Marion, the region and behind the scenes at Swinford Media Group. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a...

In this 55th episode of “Squared Up,” we meet Derek Wall and learn what motivates him to feed hundreds in Marion each Thanksgiving Day “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on the happenings in Marion, the region and behind the scenes at Swinford Media Group. Subscribe to Swinford Media Group on YouTube so you don’t miss a single episode of “Squared Up,...

In this 54th episode of “Squared Up,” we get a look at a version of producer Tom Mann in some old photos that we’ve never seen before. Also, Monica’s back just in time to watch Bill devour a cupcake and reminisce about when he cut his hair and shaved his beard. We also preview the upcoming Very Merry Marion Christmas Parade, set for November 30. “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square...

In this 53rd episode of “Squared Up,” Sophia Swinford fills in for Monica and talks about her life, friends, TikTok’s and future plans. Also, special guest Byram Fager of the Southern Illinois Community Foundation stops by to talk about his organization’s work and some new projects. “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on the happenings in Marion, the...

In this 52nd episode of “Squared Up,” Bill, Monica and Tom talk to their friend Darla Harms of the Salvation Army. Did you know that, in 2024, 1,580 children and 380 homebound seniors received Christmas gifts, over 20,000 food parcels were distributed, more than 700 senior citizens received food commodities, 1,800 diapers and hygiene packs were provided to families in need, 400 households benefite...

In this 51st episode of “Squared Up,” Monica talks about the ringing in her ears and Tom tries his best to diagnose. We learn of her love for dolphins and then our couple gets down to business talking about the latest downtown and around the area. “Squared Up" is based on Marion’s Tower Square Plaza and keeps you up to date on the happenings in Marion, the region and behind the scenes at Swin...

In this milestone 50th episode of “Squared Up,” Bill and Monica’s podcast is taken over by two Toms – Director Tom Mann and friend Tom Harness – who have created a version of “The Newlywed Game” with the apparent goal of getting Bill into hot water. They also discuss local veterans issues and opportunities with Tom H., a well-known advocate for those who have served in uniform. Subscribe to Swinfo...

In the 49th episode of “Squared Up,” Bill and Monica open up about the realities of blending two lives together — the joys, the challenges, and a few of the bumps along the way. They share some of the early hurdles they’ve faced as newlyweds, along with lighthearted updates from around the square and the Southern Illinois region. Tune in for an honest, entertaining look at life after “I do.” Subsc...

In this, the 48th episode of “Squared Up,” we celebrate the matrimonial union of two of our hosts (no, not Bill and Tom). Get a look at some early images from wedding weekend and join the celebration as Bill and Monica recount the experience and Tom gives his critical review. We also meet Monica’s son Seth before he heads off to Oregon State University to study Nuclear Engineering! Subscribe to Sw...

We are now just days away from the big wedding and there is still so much to do! But, Bill, Monica and Tom still wanted to take time to talk to their friend Ken Anderson, whose WBVN 104.5 FM station turns 35 this year.  In this, the 48th episode of “Squared Up,” they discuss the journey of the Contemporary Christian station that operates less than a block south of Tower Square Plaza. Subscribe to...

In this, the 46th episode of “Squared Up,” Monica talks about her great experience bridal shopping at “Blush & Ivory” in downtown Marion. She tried on many dresses, but did she pick one? We also get a look at young Tom in an old commercial as he recounts the period of his life when is on-screen wife was mistaken for his real-life wife. We preview our SI Made Talent Show on Friday, July 18 and...

Our crew meets to record Swinford Media’s weekly podcast about a lot of randomness, including Monica not being included on the lease, Bill's thinning hair and Tom's stinky feet solution. Monica thinks this episode needs a lot of editing but you’re getting it all, let us know what you think on the Squared Up Facebook page. Follow us weekly on the Swinford Media Group Channel on YouTube, on...

What happens when you podcast without a plan? You end up talking about everything and nothing at the same time. Bill loves it, but does Monica? Tom gets a kick out of it all as the pair run through their recent ventures and plans in Episode 44. With much of our hosts' time being taken up by an upcoming wedding, follow the progress weekly on “Squared Up” from Swinford Media Group, available on...

In this, the 43rd episode of “Squared Up,” we welcome Dr. Glenn Poshard to the studio to promote his “Beginnings and Endings” poetry tour, which launches Sunday, June 22, at 2pm at The Varsity Center in Carbondale. The former Congressman reads two emotional, personal poems for us to sample the program he is offering in return for donations to local food pantries. Bill, Monica and Tom share other r...

In the 42nd episode of “Squared Up,” we introduce you to Chef Chris Banks, the host of a new monthly podcast from Swinford Media Group. Chris tells us some of his story and about his vision for “Hometown Heat” and we share a clip. Bill, Monica and Tom also share some other stories for the followers of Swinford Media, one of the most popular news sources in the region. Subscribe to Swinford Media G...

In the 41st episode of “Squared Up," Monica shows off her new engagement ring! Have they set the date? Our team also discusses the devastation of the May 16 tornado and the amazing volunteers who have already made a difference. And there’s so much happening around the square as the summer begins, including great food offerings. But, Monica is on a water fast (and it’s not going that well). Su...

In the 40th episode of their podcast, Bill and Monica discuss hitting the links at Kokopelli Golf Club and why a round at the simulator is a good way to prepare for the course. They also recount a night with the Marion Rotary Club at “The Liar’s Club.” They talk with Tom about their own personal history of vaccinations and childhood illnesses and then tease a brand new monthly show being produced...

In Episode 39 of Squared Up, we sit down with Aaron Price, the ambitious young journalist who launched the WFCN social media page at just 13 years old. Six years later, WFCN boasts over 80,000 followers on Facebook, and Aaron is now a college student and an essential member of the Swinford Media team. This episode also includes a recap of our experience at the Saluki Ball, a discussion on the snea...