This One Time in Kankakee
This One Time in Kankakee is a storytelling podcast from the new WVLI Podcast Network, hosted by Jake LaMore. Each episode shines a light on the weird, wild, and unforgettable moments that make Kankakee County, IL what it is. These are short, punchy episodes where everyday people share true stories from their lives—funny childhood memories, creepy encounters, embarrassing slip-ups, or heartwarming experiences that stick with you forever.
Think of it as a collection of the kinds of stories you’d hear at a family gathering, on a front porch, or sitting around a campfire—but rooted right here in the Kankakee, Illinois area. Each episode is quick to listen to, but long to remember.
Whether you grew up here, just moved to town, or are simply curious about life in this corner of Illinois, This One Time in Kankakee is a way to connect through laughter, chills, and nostalgia. Real locals. Real stories. Always memorable.
Have an unbelievable local story to share? Email jake@milnermediapartners.com to submit your story for consideration.
This One Time in Kankakee
Latest Episodes
"Flying saucers were spotted. Or were they?" - Kankakee County Museum
Did flying saucers really buzz over Kankakee in the 1950s? On this episode of This One Time in Kankakee, host Jake LaMore explores local UFO lore based on research by the late Kankakee County Museum historian Jack Klasey. From sw...
"I survived a tornado, but my house did not." - Emily LaVoie
On March 10th, 2026, an EF-3 tornado tore through the Oakwoods neighborhood along the Kankakee River, altering lives in a matter of two minutes. In this episode of This One Time in Kankakee, host Jake LaMore sits down with long-time lo...
"I was run over with a tractor." - Franklin Weber (Revisited)
On July 20th, 2026, we said goodbye to Franklin Weber—my grandfather, a local Manteno native, and the voice behind the pilot episode of This One Time in Kankakee.To honor his 93-year legacy, we returned to the original raw audio...
"My stalker bought me a PS4... that I gladly accepted." - Will Rasmussen
What starts as a distraction in a summer math class quickly turns into a fourteen-year story full of bizarre coincidences, quiet tracking, and high-value holiday gifts.In this episode of This One Time in Kankakee, host
"The County Sheriff Was Arrested." - Kankakee County Museum
In November 1961, Kankakee County witnessed an unprecedented legal showdown when sitting Sheriff Carl McNutt was arrested inside the courthouse. Facing 13 grand jury indictments—ranging from official misconduct to a vice conspiracy—McNutt's ref...
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