Squared Up

On the 38th edition of the Squared Up podcast from the Swinford Media Group, our trio is making preparations to attend the Saluki Ball. In addition, Monica shares her experiences at Herrin’s 125th birthday party, Bill tells about a conversation with the Marion mayor on Tower Square and we get another chance to sing a little! Subscribe to the Swinford Media Group on YouTube or your favorite podcast...

On this latest edition of the Squared Up podcast from the Swinford Media Group, Monica offers help to small businesses and non-profits looking for grants and loans, including steps for grant writing and local agencies ready to help. Monica, the executive director of the Herrin Chamber of Commerce, also talks about celebrations happening to celebrate that city’s 125th birthday. We also meet Tom’s h...

In the latest episode of Swinford Media’s “Squared Up” podcast, Bill reminisces about Jansco’s Show Bar in Johnston City and the iconic pool matches once aired on ABC. Although Jansco’s is no longer around, Tom gives a shout-out to another longtime Johnston City favorite, Andresen’s. The conversation then shifts to the Square, where Bill and Monica share highlights from their recent trip to “Littl...

On the latest episode of Swinford Media’s “Squared Up” podcast, we enjoy a visit from Senator Dale Fowler, who fills us in on plans for the next “SI Made Expo,” including a new event that will bring a talent show to Tower Square! Should the “Squared Up Singers” make an appearance? We also pay tribute to local fire chief Jeremy Norris, who passed away last week, with remembrances and some exclusive...

On the 34th edition of Swinford Media Group’s “Squared Up” podcast, Bill and Monica introduce the streaming show “Severance" to Tom, who has not seen a single episode of Apple TV’s hugely popular series. They ponder whether they would undergo the severance procedure just to get through the work day. They also reflect on why Swinford Media Group’s storm coverage has become so popular on social...

In the latest episode of Swinford Media’s “Squared Up” podcast, Bill and Tom track down Monica, who escaped to Florida for Spring Break. They recap the opening of Seasoning Bistro on Tower Square, an awards banquet at Walker’s Bluff and a career fair in Herrin. They also try to clear up some misunderstandings about the new sports fields being constructed near the Pavilion. Also, palm trees and Mon...

City of Marion Chief of Staff Cody Moake explains why this week was huge in the Oasis redevelopment in and around the former mall. He will share details with Bill and Monica as construction equipment is moving into place for the huge $250 million project. But, it’s not all business, as Tom shares more Boomer memories and Bill gets more packs of candy cigs. Monica also reads encouraging notes from...

Bill and Monica talk more about the Oasis Development now underway, including why sports tourism is so important to making the other pieces work. They also expose shocking details from their Valentine’s Day date and ask you to weigh in on a few questions, so don’t miss Episode 31 of “Squared Up!”

Bill and Monica share details on the timeline and plans for Marion’s mall renovation and re-invention, along with the new hotel and entertainment centers coming to that area. They also share stories from Herrin’s 125th birthday celebration and run through all the best stuff happening around Williamson County and the region. Plus Valentine’s Day memories and advice, so don’t miss Episode 30 of “Squ...

In Episode 29 of Swinford Media’s podcast on all-things local, Monica feels betrayed after she learns what Bill really thinks of her hat. Tom gets into the conversation by showing one of his WWII helmets and a history lesson ensues. The conversation turns closer to home as our hosts talk about joining The Hub recreation center and preview upcoming events. Bill talks about his all-time favorite dog...

In Episode 28 of Swinford Media Group’s podcast on all-things local, our team recaps the recent winter storms and Tom shows how he keeps the studio (and his house) up and running when the power goes out. We also recap the reaction to our Christmas episode, discuss upcoming events and compare “Jurassic Park” to “Land of the Lost.” Yes, it’s our usual mix of useful and non-useful information on the...

In Episode 27 of Swinford Media’s podcast on all-things local, our crew celebrates Christmas with some weird tales and some off-key singing. Who won our favorite song contest, a Donkey or a Reindeer? And what is Bill smoking, anyway? We also hear about a new mural near Tower Square, a roundup of recent happenings in downtown Marion and a trip to a Herrin Italian market that scored some childhood f...

In Episode 26 of Swinford Media’s podcast on all-things local, Bill recalls a former Herrin mayor and a visit by Ronald Reagan, while Monica details a recent visit to a unique local business. sausage store. And what do all these things have in common? Tune in to find out. Also, we list the early nominees for the Christmas classic that will be sung on our Christmas show in two weeks. And there’s mo...

As Bill and Monica review a frigid but fun weekend, we also learn that Tom and Monica both were the recipients of swats during their school days. There are more surprising revelations on the 25th episode of “Squared Up!” Now, it’s your turn. Jump in the comments on our YouTube or Facebook socials and let us know your favorite Christmas song. If enough people agree with you, we will plan a special...

We’re celebrating the completion of the Tower Square renovation on the 24th episode of “Squared Up!” Bill attended the city’s ribbon cutting and has final details to share. We also run down the list of activities for the first holiday weekend and remind you how to enter “12 Days of Giveaways” to win BIG prizes. And who is Dara, and why did she doodle on our coffee cups. Learn that and more on this...

The tears flow on an emotional 23rd episode of “Squared Up,” as Bill and Monica share some personal news. But is that why Monica is crying? Watch to find out, and also learn about an exciting “12 Days of Giveaways” that you can register for right now as Swinford Media and the “Thrillville” developers collaborate to make the holidays even better! We also hear a great story about how Tom met his wif...

It’s time for Trivia on “Squared Up,” as Bill and Monica quiz Tom on some questions from a fundraiser they helped host. Bill also reveals a new love for a children’s story that has captivated him as an adult. Meanwhile, we bring you updates and a rundown on the best stuff happening around Williamson County as we mark our 22nd episode.

Another new restaurant is coming to Marion and they’re decorating for Christmas downtown. Meanwhile, the Herrin Chamber is using handbags to raise money for a good cause. Bill updates us on the latest news from Swinford Media Group, Tom recommends a unique movie and, as the weather gets colder, Monica is feeling the heat. Check out the 21st episode of “Squared Up!”

This week we look back at 40 years on the local airwaves with Mark Kiesling, who just retired as senior news anchor at the local ABC affiliate, WSIL-TV. On this, the 20th episode of “Squared Up,” we discuss the public’s reaction to the surprising news, ask Mark to recall some stories from his long career, and hear his secret to remaining at peace despite circumstances. We also share some new image...

In our 19th edition of the “Squared Up” podcast from Swinford Media Group, Bill ponders why so many races on the upcoming ballot are uncontested. Tom talks about his friend – who parted ways with a local TV network affiliate after decades – and the complications of being corporate-owned. Monica has thoughtful contributions on both topics, despite the fact that she believes she has a bug in her ear...

In our 18th edition of the “Squared Up” podcast from Swinford Media Group, Monica and Bill share memories of Fred Huff, a beloved haberdasher and local historian. They also discuss the value of good educators and ask you to share the name of a favorite teacher. Among other topics, there are updates from Tower Square and we tease what our couple will wear to a Halloween party. Can you guess? Jump i...

Bricks are now being laid in the parking/pedestrian areas to finish renovations of Tower Square Plaza! Bill and Monica share their excitement and discuss some recent viewer and listener responses and ponder another excerpt from the “He Said, She Said” book.

In the 16th episode of the Swinford Media Group’s podcast, based on Marion’s Tower Square, we update you on some coming events and recap some of the top news locally. Also, what popular songs have you misheard? Monica, Bill and Tom laugh their way through some crazy, messed-up lyrics. 

Construction around Marion’s Tower Square is really starting to come together and Bill and Monica bring an update. Monica shares more from the “He Said, She Said” book and her trip to visit family out east. She also cautions listeners about trusting Bill with their childhood traumas, such as ventriloquist’s dummies. And then everything screeches to a halt after Monica runs out on her co-host. Also...

September 7th will be the 20th anniversary of Veterans On Parade and it will also introduce a new way to honor our veterans: “Freedom Sings!” Find out how you can participate as professional songwriters pair with a select group of war veterans to tell their stories in a concert on Tower Square. Also, speaking of the square, Bill and Monica discuss some of the features being installed in new crossw...