The Local

Get the dish about new and upcoming restaurants in Wheaton and surrounding areas!  Mike discusses how his group is proud to bring back the word “service” in customer service.  How he learned important life skills in the restaurant business leading him to a very satisfying career.  As Ross from Friends reminds folks – it’s ok to PIVOT and take a risk!  Cheers! Do you have a guest idea for The Local...

Dr. Jorgensen discusses his unexpected journey that took him from surgeon to coroner. He shares historical perspective on the creation of the coroner's office going all the way back to medieval times. He also provides perspective on the Fentanyl crisis and how his office is leading the fight against it. Do you have a guest idea for The Local? Reach out to us by  clicking here!

Bob has been a lifelong resident of Wheaton and knows where the bodies are buried – literally! As a matter of fact, as a young lad, he golfed amongst them. He reminisces of the good old days and is just as excited to see where Wheaton is headed. This story-rich interview goes from dunking to cocktail parties, and ping-pong balls! Also, more seriously Bob talks about how banking has affected custom...

It’s not every day you get to sit down with a former Chicago Cub and pro baseball player who shares the same town as you. On this episode of The Local, Marc & Vickie hear fun-filled stories from Dave Otto about what it was like to be drafted to the major leagues alongside notable names like Bo Jackson and Barry Larkin, and how opting for college instead of the pros the first time around paid divid...

From the first Latina Lieutenant Governor of Illinois to changing laws for fair housing, Evelyn Sanguinetti proudly shares her journey from growing up in poverty to living in Springfield. A refreshing story of failure, humility, and hard work that made her famously known as The Sidewalk Lady, and how she uses her experiences to make Wheaton a desirable place for businesses to thrive! Do you have a...

From corporate guy to entrepreneur, Mark Bridges, founder of Grandpa Frank’s Candy, turned his grandfather’s family recipe into a business that has taken Wheaton by storm. Hear how Mark made his transition from consulting into business ownership, what inspires him, and how he inspires us – and a little bit about his custom candy for Fairhaven Wealth Management! Do you have a guest idea for The Loc...

In this re-release, learn how Ron Austin started his career at the former Big Eight firm Arthur Andersen & Co, and decided if he had to work this hard – he’d rather work for himself!  With unwavering support from his wife, it was a leap of faith that paid off with a lot of hard work. What a badge of honor it was to cold call clients and develop a relationship that comes to fruition. In keeping wit...

In this re-release, learn how Eric Schlickman started out as a young foreman with Legos on the playground, then became an architect by trade. He has a truly fascinating story of how networking and past experiences helped him take the leap of faith into the restaurant business. Eric shares how his faith, work ethic, and family are all part of reshaping the social landscape of Wheaton. He also dishe...

This must listen podcast is chock-full of fascinating stories from smuggling drugs into Mexico to helping Navajo Indians!  SCARCE stands for School and Community Assistance for Recycling and Composting Education and how their unique name ties into the goal of promoting environmental education.  Kay is a human LinkedIn and Federal Express wrapped up into one intrepid storyteller, and just one of he...

In this classic episode of The Local, we revisit our conversation with Sue Wahlgren.   Sue began her ambassadorship at Cosley Zoo 39 years ago, when there were just two employees. Today, the team is over 30, and they're proudly accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Only 10% of United States zoos enjoy this honor!     Find out about their Junior Zoo Keeper program for kids ages 12-17...

Join us on The Local podcast as we chat with Michael Sitrick, a recovering attorney turned President of the DuPage Foundation. Discover the impact of philanthropy in DuPage County and learn how community foundations can transform lives. Michael shares his insights on donor-advised funds, collaborative grant-making, and the importance of local engagement. Listen in to explore the power of giving ba...

On this heartfelt episode of The Local, the team honors and reminisces with Vickie Austin on how the idea of The Local was born.  As she bids farewell to Wheaton and heads back to her homeland in Arizona where she plans on beginning a new exciting chapter!  Vickie's enthusiasm for the podcast and the stories shared are infectious.  A must listen to this tribute to a special lady! Do you have a gue...

In this special follow-up episode we had the pleasure of welcoming back Dr. Sheri Billing from The Hearing Doctors, along with her successor, Dr. Ashley Goryl. We talked about life transitions including starting a business, selling a business, buying a business, retirement and working with family. Another chock full episode! Do you have a guest idea for The Local? Reach out to us by  clicking...

In this episode, we had a fantastic conversation with Erin Inman from Primera Engineers, discussing a wide range of topics from her experiences growing up in different countries to her journey of acquiring and running a successful engineering firm. Do you have a guest idea for The Local? Reach out to us by  clicking here!

Friends for 35 years (wow, are they both getting old), join the conversation with our guest Paul Hawkinson and host Marc Horner. As college buddies, basketball teammates and with more than one golf trip under their belts, our guess is there is a lot more to discuss (with a lot less maturity) then talking about their recent visit to Statesville prison and Paul’s many experiences since walking away...

John shared his inspiring journey from the inception of a unique golf tee to developing a revolutionary one-size-fits-all golf glove and other innovative golf products. His story is a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and entrepreneurial spirit in transforming simple ideas into game-changing products. You will be smiling ear to ear during this one! Do you have a guest idea for Th...

Join us on The Local podcast as we chat with John Trompeter from ComForCare Home Care. John discusses the importance of home health care, the challenges families face when caring for loved ones, and the role of professionals in providing quality care. Do you have a guest idea for The Local? Reach out to us by  clicking here!

Learn the true meaning of “in sickness and health” with our guest, two-time cancer survivor, Phil Zielke of Phil’s Friends.  Phil shares the story of battling cancer and how his eyes were opened to the power of seemingly small gestures of kindness. Hear how “Phil’s Friends” uses the power of good old fashioned care packages to deliver personalized and encouraging cards and goodies to cancer patien...

Join us on The Local podcast as we dive into the transformative journey of St. Francis High School with President Phil Kerr. From safety initiatives, academic excellence, and the secret sauce that makes St. Francis, this episode is a must-listen!  Their dedication to continuous improvement and culture of excellence and community impact all contribute to a National Blue Ribbon award-winning student...

Marc Horner and guest co-host Meg Goodman speak to Justin Witte, the Billy Bean of the art world!  The conversation delves into the unique artwork in Mark's office, emphasizing the impact of original pieces in creating a vibrant environment.  Justin reveals the trials and tribulations of running exhibits, from logistics to security (cue James Bond theme song).   He talks about the traits of succes...

I am thrilled to announce the latest episode of The Local podcast, where we had the pleasure of hosting Moyra Gorski, a local wellness entrepreneur extraordinaire.  An informative podcast where Moyra explains you must set boundaries for yourself and get off the emotional roller coaster of life – nobody’s coming!  She encouraged listeners to pay attention to their bodies, emotions, and habits, emph...

🎙️☕️ In Part 2 of The Local podcast with Pete Leonard, the founder of I Have a Bean, we dive headfirst into the full (and delicious) world of coffee! :) Discover Pete's journey from home roasting enthusiast to creator of a unique coffee roasting business that not only produces top-tier coffee, but also provides employment opportunities for individuals with felony convictions.   When you’re ready...

From roasting his dorm room to roasting beans, listen how this Jack Of All Trades curiosity and willingness to embrace new experiences allowed him to venture into the world of coffee roasting.  Pete's journey serves as a reminder that life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and sometimes the most fulfilling paths are the ones we least expect. Make sure to turn in April 16th for the rest of th...

On this episode of The Local, Marc Horner & co-host Vickie Austin are joined by Dr. Brian Madvig of Arbor Clinical Associates to discuss wealth management beyond stocks and bonds. From the therapeutic benefits of golf, to navigating retirement challenges, this episode explores the importance of family, career, community, and finding fulfillment in everyday moments. Tune in for insightful discussio...

A PSA podcast if ever there was one! Did you know that hearing loss can be linked to dementia and how Medicare doesn’t cover the cost!  Learn more about this important connection and the importance of getting a hearing baseline at age 50.  Worried how they’ll look?  Don’t  - these are not your grandma’s hearing aids –  you’ll “hear” how the  new hearing aids are made and it’s something out of a sc...