Kevin Polky - The Journey

In this episode of The Journey, Kevin is joined by Ann Dittmer, a retired attorney with a heart for service and a passion for helping those in crisis. For over 20 years, Ann has volunteered at the Rockford Rescue Mission, where she now serves on the Board of Directors as Chair.⁣ ⁣ Ann shares powerful stories and insights from her time working with individuals facing homelessness, addiction, and ot...

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of The Journey, Kevin sits down with Mark and Jamie Kuney, the parents of Ryan Masters — a gifted athlete, dedicated Marine, and beloved son. Ryan’s journey took him from high school and college athletics to serving his country through two military deployments. But when he returned home, something had changed. Mark and Jamie bravely share Ryan’s story — t...

In this episode of The Journey, Kevin is joined by Nick Votava and Elliot Ganet of Rockford Barbell, a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth through mindful movement and trauma-informed practices. Nick and Elliot share how their programs go beyond physical fitness, helping young people develop crucial social and emotional skills like self-awareness, relationship building, and responsible d...

In this reflective episode of The Journey, Kevin shares thoughts in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, exploring what it truly means to care for your personal wellness. He discusses the interconnected nature of our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health—and how growth in one area supports growth in the others. Drawing on the philosophy of Four Corners Wellness, Kevin offers practic...

In this episode of The Journey, Kevin revisits the theme of resilience—drawing inspiration from the changing season. As spring begins to bloom, he explores how growth often happens beneath the surface, especially during life’s darkest and most challenging moments. This episode is a reminder that even when progress isn’t visible, transformation is still taking place.

In this solo episode of The Journey, Kevin outlines five powerful steps to help build resilience in everyday life. From answering the call to a bigger story and practicing self-care, to reframing challenges, learning from failure, and being mindful of your inner dialogue—Kevin offers practical wisdom to help you grow stronger through life’s struggles.

In this solo episode of The Journey, Kevin reflects on what it takes to develop true resilience. He explores the power of adopting a growth mindset over a fixed one, and how choosing to lead with love rather than fear can shape how we respond to life’s challenges. Kevin shares insights on the importance of learning how to think—not just what to think—as a foundation for lasting strength and transf...

In this episode of The Journey, Kevin is joined by health coach Abbie Honaker, whose personal wellness journey inspired her to help others take control of their own health. Abbie shares how she overcame her own health struggles and now empowers busy, health-minded individuals to look beyond just diet and exercise—focusing instead on lasting, holistic change. Her passion and philosophy offer an ins...

In this episode of The Journey with Kevin Polky, Kevin sits down with Matt Weldon, whose life has been defined by transformation and purpose. Growing up in Rockton, Illinois, Matt’s path has taken him from studying at Eastern Illinois University to a career in education, then making bold shifts into trading at the Chicago Board of Trade, and ultimately becoming a financial planner. Beyond his care...

In this episode of The Journey with Kevin Polky, Kevin sits down with Britney Lynea, a passionate advocate for personal growth and having balance in your life. Britney shares her story, how her background shaped her, the lessons she’s learned through life’s challenges, and her ongoing commitment to self-improvement. Join us for an inspiring conversation about transformation, resilience, and the po...

In this week’s episode of The Journey, Kevin reflects on a powerful truth: learning to distinguish between what we can control and what we must learn to accept. He explores how our actions and responses are, in fact, the only things truly within our control. Kevin offers thoughtful insights on how embracing this mindset requires both wisdom and courage—and how doing so can bring greater peace, cla...

In this week’s episode of The Journey, Kevin reflects on the stress we all face in our daily lives and how it can often feel overwhelming. He explores practical tools to shift focus away from worry and toward gratitude, offering actionable steps to help listeners find balance and peace. Kevin also shares his personal morning ritual—a consistent practice that sets the tone for his day and supports...

In this episode of The Journey, Kevin reflects on the importance of developing the whole person by focusing on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Through personal stories, he highlights how intentional effort can lead to spiritual formation and growth. Kevin also shares an inspiring example from a football program that prioritized a character-first approach, focusing on the ind...

On this week’s episode of The Journey, Kevin is joined by Ashley Phillips, founder of Becoming Free Counseling Services in Rockford, Illinois. With over a decade of experience as a therapist, Ashley has dedicated her career to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and embrace healing. In this episode, Ashley shares her personal story, reflecting on the childhood and young adult experience...

This week on The Journey, Kevin sits down with Peggy Anderson, a true embodiment of resilience and determination. Peggy shares her upbringing on a family farm, where she developed a strong work ethic that has guided her through life’s challenges. She also takes us through her incredible journey into the world of fitness and bodybuilding, where she’s achieved remarkable success, earning her pro bod...

This week on The Journey, Kevin welcomes back Ralph Velasco, a seasoned traveler, entrepreneur, and author. Ralph shares the evolution of his business over the past few years, transforming his photo enrichment company into a unique travel enterprise that immerses clients in the food, sights, and rich cultures of foreign lands. As an author of the three-book series The Mindful and Intentional Trave...

As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and reset. In this episode of The Journey with Kevin Polky, Kevin shares his thoughts on the power of reflection. He encourages listeners to look back at the moments, captured in photos and memories from the past year and use those insights to shape their desires and intentions for the year ahead. Join Kevin as he offers guidance...

In this episode of The Journey, Kevin Polky reflects on the timeless classic A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, uncovering the profound life lessons it holds. Through the lens of this beloved story, Kevin explores themes of self-reflection, transformation, and the power of embracing change. Drawing connections to the Hero’s Journey, he discusses how life’s challenges and setbacks often serve as...

In this episode of The Journey, Kevin Polky reflects on the profound idea of joy during this special time of year. Drawing inspiration from his connection to both Christianity and Native American traditions, Kevin explores the concept of a light placed within each of us at the moment of conception—a light deeply rooted in love and connection. Kevin shares how embracing this inner light can guide u...

In this episode of The Journey, Kevin Polky reflects on the beauty of the changing seasons and the deeper lessons they offer. Just as nature transitions from one phase to the next, our lives are full of transformations that invite us to grow and evolve. Kevin discusses the importance of embracing these changes with an open heart and being present in the moment. By doing so, we create space to find...

In this episode of The Journey, Kevin Polky reflects on the importance of taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone. Life’s greatest opportunities often come with uncertainty, and Kevin discusses how to embrace those moments without the fear of failure holding you back. He explores how mistakes and setbacks are not only inevitable but also essential for growth. By focusing on what you can...

In this week’s episode of The Journey, Kevin Polky continues the discussion on cultivating a growth mindset by exploring Jocko Willink's concept of Extreme Ownership. This powerful principle challenges us to resist the temptation of blaming others for our circumstances and instead focus on our own actions and decisions. Kevin reflects on how embracing personal responsibility can lead to profound g...

In this week’s episode of The Journey, Kevin Polky reflects on the transformative power of gratitude. Through intentional practice and taking time to acknowledge what we’re truly grateful for, gratitude can become a powerful tool for personal growth. Kevin explores how gratitude not only fosters a sense of appreciation but also builds resilience and promotes emotional and spiritual development. Wh...

In this week’s episode of The Journey, Kevin sits down with Lynne Conner, a seasoned freelance writer and journalist with over 20 years of experience covering stories in the greater Rockford area. Lynne shares insights from her career journey, highlighting the joys and challenges of freelance writing, and the importance of staying true to one’s passions. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or simply...

In this week’s episode of The Journey, Kevin Polky is joined by Olivia Gaumond, who courageously shares her story of living with and ultimately overcoming Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Olivia opens up about the darkest moments of her experience, revealing the struggles and challenges she faced and the pivotal turning point that marked the beginning of her recovery. Her story is one of resil...