Best Short Porch Podcasts (2025)

1
"We counted down the 3 most listened to episodes of 2025." 15:52

Play Pause

1h ago15:52

15:52

We launched This One Time in Kankakee on the WVLI Podcast Network in October 2025, and the stories have been nothing short of wild. In this year-end recap, host Jake LaMore cracks open the vault to count down the Top 3 Most Downloaded Episodes of the year. If you are new to the show, this is the perfect place to start. We revisit the funny, the his…

1
Return to the Chalet 42:02

22m ago42:02

42:02

Our story tonight is called Return to the Chalet, and it is a sort of "season two" of a fan-favorite series from a few winter’s back called Winter Getaway though you don’t need to listen to that three-parter to find your place in this one. It’s a story about a trip out of town after the bustle of the holidays settles down. It’s also about landmarks…

1
Game Night (Encore) 35:35

5d ago35:35

35:35

Originally presented as Season 6, Episode 13 (December 8, 2020) Our story tonight is called Game Night, and it’s a story about ringing in the New Year with friends around the kitchen table. It’s also about a memory of card games with aunts and uncles, a secret ingredient, and the importance of good old-fashioned fun. Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠Premium cha…

1
Candlewalk 34:07

3d ago34:07

34:07

Our story tonight is called Candlewalk, and it's a story about a special Holiday tradition in downtown Nothing Much. It's also about tea lights and snow shovels, Christmas cookies, and cocoa, keeping warm in a thermos. A smiley face on a sticky note, voices in harmony, and a winding, forgotten alley where light begins to shine. Subscribe to our ⁠Pr…

1
Out of the Cold (Encore) 33:37

12d ago33:37

33:37

Originally presented as Season 14, Episode 57 Our story tonight is called Out of the Cold, and it’s a story about a windy day and a place to warm up. It’s also about pine boughs and an open wrought iron gate, smoke rising from a chimney in the distance, a black cat, cookies, and tea, and the good feeling of stepping into the warmth with a friend. V…

1
"I planned a flash mob on the courthouse lawn." 12:38

14d ago12:38

12:38

Jeff Cross isn’t usually a planner. But for his 30th wedding anniversary, he decided to go big. In this episode of This One Time in Kankakee, we hear the incredible true story of how a 1990s meet-cute at a Bourbonnais Blockbuster led to a secret flash mob in downtown Kankakee. Hear how Jeff organized 50 friends and family members, dodged suspicious…

1
Merry Much Happens - 2025 3:04:03

15d ago3:04:03

3:04:03

Our stories tonight have been picked by the team that makes Nothing Much…Happen. They are stories of snowfall and market stalls draped with greenery, quiet moments at home and exciting new meetings, some comfort some joy, and some steadiness for the new year. From all of us, we wish you sweet dreams. Subscribe to our ⁠Premium channel.⁠ The first tw…

1
Mistletoe and Marmalade (Encore) 30:52

19d ago30:52

30:52

Originally presented as Season 12, Episode 39 Our story tonight is called Mistletoe and Marmalade, and it’s a story about decorating for the holidays with the whole family. It’s also about birds at the feeder, ornaments made in kindergarten that still make it onto the tree, the ways that love can surprise you, and a greyhound in a Christmas sweater…

1
Inbound Marketing Strategies for Real Estate Success with Trevor Mauch of Carrot.com 58:16

15d ago58:16

58:16

In this episode of the She's Got Assets real estate investment podcast, host Shona Lepis is joined by Trevor Mauch, CEO of Carrot.com, to discuss the benefits of inbound marketing over traditional outbound methods for real estate investors. Trevor explains how inbound marketing generates the best, most motivated leads, resulting in higher lead-to-d…

1
Fogged Glasses and Felting Fibers 35:47

22d ago35:47

35:47

Our story tonight is called Fogged Glasses and Felting Fibers, and it’s a story about an evening spent working on a project among friends. It’s also about a tote bag full of spools of colored thread, the moon reflected in a car window, a saved seat, a black and white movie, the quiet companionable sound of knitting needles clicking and a gentle nud…

1
City Sidewalks (Encore) 33:33

26d ago33:33

33:33

Originally Aired: December 14th, 2020 (Season 6, Episode 12) Our story tonight is called City Sidewalks and it’s a story about an evening looking into shop windows filled with Holiday displays. It’s also about miracles made in gingerbread, realizing when something is good, and the hushed excitement in a theater as the movie is about to begin. Subsc…

1
"I covered my car completely in duct tape." 12:21

28d ago12:21

12:21

It was the winter of 2001. The muffler had just fallen off, and the rust was setting in. But Nick Stalnos wasn't ready to give up on his 1993 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera. Instead, he grabbed his friends, bought every roll of silver tape he could find, and created a local legend. In this episode of This One Time in Kankakee, we sit down with Nick to he…

1
Outside At Night, With My Dog 27:52

29d ago27:52

27:52

Our story tonight is called Outside at Night, with my Dog, and it’s a story that you might have read if you have my book, but has never appeared on the podcast before. I picked it to read for you this week in tribute to my own dogs, as we are healing from loss and stories are medicine. It’s a story about waking with a loved one when the moon is hig…

1
Thanksgiving at the Cabin (Encore) 33:56

1M ago33:56

33:56

Originally presented as Season 14, Episode 51 Our story tonight is called Thanksgiving at the Cabin, and it’s a story about a walk through the woods with a friend to start the day. It’s also about the sun on your face, empty branches, and squirrels, cranberries, and apples. The sound of the shower in the other room, and a note written in the steam …

1
After Dinner 33:34

1M ago33:34

33:34

Our story tonight is called After Dinner, and it is the third part in a series featuring some favorite animals in the Village of Nothing Much. You could go back and listen to the previous two if you’ve missed them, but you’ll probably be asleep in a few moments. This is a story about the quiet that settles in as the plates are cleared and the candl…

1
The Joy of Missing Out (Encore) 32:04

1M ago32:04

32:04

Originally Presented as Season 12, Episode 31 Our story tonight is called The Joy of Missing Out, and it’s a story about recharging your body when your battery has run down. It’s also about frost on the windows, reading a favorite book snuggled deep under the covers, being honest about what you need, and giving others permission to do the same. Cur…

1
Curtain Call 4:06

1M ago4:06

4:06

Join Kathryn Nicolai and friends for a one-night-only live virtual event on Wednesday, November 19th filled with calming bedtime stories, live music, guided journaling, and a few thoughtful surprises. You can tune in from anywhere! Tickets available now at ⁠pave.live/nothingmuchhappens ⁠🎟️ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoi…

1
"My son, Mads Pomranky, was diagnosed with a rare form of Leukemia." 17:28

1M ago17:28

17:28

What began as a routine trip to the pediatrician at Riverside Hospital quickly turned into a life-altering journey for the Pomranky family. In this episode of This One Time in Kankakee, host Jake LaMore sits down with local mom Jennifer Pomranky to share the powerful story of her son, Mads. Diagnosed with a rare form of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)…

1
The Guest Room 35:18

1M ago35:18

35:18

Our story tonight is called The Guest Room, and it’s a story about making a space feel warm and welcoming. It’s also about fresh sheets and fluffy stacks of towels, a pearly button and a jewelry box, the clean feeling of a room that’s been properly aired out, a silly dog who sees every chore as a chance for play, and showing love through thoughtful…

1
Sunday Reset (Encore) 33:55

2M ago33:55

33:55

Originally presented as Season 10, Episode 23 Our story tonight is called Sunday Reset, and it’s a story about a day set aside to plan for a good week ahead. It’s also about sheets hung on the line, drying in the last warm rays of the autumn, a record spinning on the turntable, and a changed outlook after advice from a friend. Join Kathryn and frie…

1
Recipe Testing 35:53

2M ago35:53

35:53

Our story tonight is called Recipe Testing, and it’s a story about a quiet afternoon at home, preparing for the holidays. It’s also about leaves raked into piles in the backyard, cranberries and pastry flour, the incredible softness of a dog’s ears, soup pots and sage, and the comfortable feeling of your loved ones resting nearby as you cook. Join …

1
Autumn Sun (Encore) 35:58

2M ago35:58

35:58

Originally presented as Season 14, Episode 45, November 4, 2024 Our story tonight is called Autumn Sun, and it’s a story about a day at Weathervane Farm, treating the animals to autumnal enrichment. It’s also about light shifting through orange and red leaves, the pillowy soil of a well tilled garden, the last pumpkins picked from their vines, and …

1
"The Village of Bonfield Banned Rhummy." 13:18

2M ago13:18

13:18

In the dead of winter 1938, the tiny village of Bonfield, Illinois, made national news for a bizarre reason: it banned the card game Rhummy. On this episode of "This One Time in Kankakee," discover the strange and true story of the "Rhummy Rebellion." Amid the Great Depression, Bonfield was known as a "sinless village" in Kankakee County, thanks to…

1
Rainy Morning (Encore) 35:47

2M ago35:47

35:47

Originally presented as Season 8, Bonus Episode 4 Our story tonight is called Rainy Morning, and it’s a story about savoring a good book from bed. It’s also about resting your eyes, having the house to yourself, and looking forward to the next great read. Join Kathryn and friends for a one-night-only live virtual event on Wednesday, November 19th f…

1
Cottage Clusters & Creative Real Estate with Developer Kelsey LPJ 1:05:46

2M ago1:05:46

1:05:46

In this episode of the 'She's Got Assets' podcast, host Shona Lepis delves into the innovative world of cottage clusters with special guest Kelsey LPJ. They discuss the benefits of this niche, including the expedited permitting process and potential for numerous units. Kelsey shares her journey from acquiring a distressed property to transforming i…

1
Preview: "The Village of Bonfield Banned Rhummy." Episode Out Nov. 3rd 3:48

2M ago3:48

3:48

A short preview of what's to come on the next episode of This One Time in Kankakee. Believe it or not, the card game rummy or rhummy was once banned in the Village of Bonfield. Listen to the full episode this Monday, November 3rd. Click the follow button now so you don't miss out! Send us a textBy WVLI Podcast Network

1
Trick or Treat (Encore) 35:47

2M ago35:47

35:47

Originally presented as Season 8, Episode 12, October 25, 2021 Our story tonight is called Trick or Treat, and it’s a story about a roaming the streets on All Hallows' Eve. It’s also about a gust of wind that turns you around, lit porch lights, and making memories with the people you love. Join Kathryn and friends for a one-night-only live virtual …

1
Chef and the Ghost Light 42:33

2M ago42:33

42:33

Our story tonight is called Chef and the Ghost Light, and it’s a story in which, fine, I’ll admit, something happens. The jig is up. It’s even a little spooky friends. So if that isn’t your cup of sleepy-time tea, please skip this episode and dive into one of the hundreds of others I’ve written for you. We’ll return to your regular programming next…

1
Behind the Curtain (Encore) 34:03

2M ago34:03

34:03

Originally Presented as Season 10, Episode 22, October 31, 2022 Our story tonight is called Behind the Curtain, and it’s a story about two friends meeting for the first time. It’s also about a copper kettle simmering on the stove, a gentle approach to tip people toward kindness, and cinnamon sticks and sliced apples. Join Kathryn and friends for a …

1
"Jennifer Hudson came to see our musical." 15:28

2M ago15:28

15:28

What happens when an EGOT winner and Chicago legend unexpectedly shows up to your community theater rehearsal? On this episode of This One Time in Kankakee, we hear the incredible true story from director Andrew McBurnie about the night Jennifer Hudson visited Bourbonnais to see Acting Out Theatre Company's production of Godspell. Andrew shares a b…

1
The Gatekeeper Tree 37:58

2M ago37:58

37:58

Our story tonight is called The Gatekeeper Tree, and it is ever-so-gently a spooky bedtime story. I know that’s not for everyone, so if it’s not for you, the good news is that we have hundreds of other episodes to listen always at your fingertips. This story is about a late night expedition, the flickering light of a lantern in the woods, tree root…

1
The Curios Shop (Encore) 36:08

2M ago36:08

36:08

Originally presented as Season 10, Episode 21, October 24, 2022 Our story tonight is called The Curios Shop, and it’s a story about a little shop in downtown Nothing Much, that takes the right set of circumstances to be found. It’s also about creaky wood floors, an old book covered in velvet, and a small grey cat with yellow eyes. Join Kathryn and …

1
Plant Your Maples! 12:37

2M ago12:37

12:37

On the season finale of Ask Grumpy, a reader struggles with a dying Japanese Maple. Plus, the tip of the week. You can find us online at southernliving.com/askgrumpy Ask Grumpy Credits: Steve Bender aka The Grumpy Gardener - Host Nellah McGough - Co-Host Krissy Tiglias - GM, Southern Living Lottie Leymarie - Executive Producer Michael Onufrak - Aud…

1
Rosewater and Witch Hazel 32:11

3M ago32:11

32:11

Our story tonight is called Rosewater and Witch Hazel, and it’s a story about reclaiming your sparkle on a moonlit night. It’s also about a grey cat and a friendly neighborhood shop for needful things, flower petals and vanilla pods, brown paper and an ink pad, and taking time to pamper yourself, just as you deserve. Join Kathryn and friends for a …

1
Unlocking Real Estate Success: Gabe Johansen on Creative Financing and Building Wealth 1:13:05

3M ago1:13:05

1:13:05

In this episode of the She's Got Assets podcast, host Shona Lepis interviews President of the SMI family of companies. Gabe shares his journey from the car business to real estate, emphasizing the importance of understanding clients' needs and motivations. They discuss strategies for creative financing, including leveraging seller carry loans and i…

1
Peak Planting Time 8:31

3M ago8:31

8:31

What to know about daffodil bulbs. Plus, the tip of the week. You can find us online at southernliving.com/askgrumpy Ask Grumpy Credits: Steve Bender aka The Grumpy Gardener - Host Nellah McGough - Co-Host Krissy Tiglias - GM, Southern Living Lottie Leymarie - Executive Producer Michael Onufrak - Audio Engineer/Producer Isaac Nunn - Recording Tech …

1
The Leaf House (Encore) 31:12

3M ago31:12

31:12

Originally Aired: October 4th, 2020 (Season 6, Episode 7) Our story tonight is called The Leaf House, and it’s a story about an autumn day spent working in the yard. It’s also a game remembered from childhood, a spider’s web spun on a chrysanthemum, and different ways to think about home. Visit ⁠⁠curednutrition.com/NOTHINGMUCH⁠⁠ and use code NOTHIN…

1
Weed Control 11:06

3M ago11:06

11:06

A reader has a weed dilemma. Plus, the gripe of the month. You can find us online at southernliving.com/askgrumpy Ask Grumpy Credits: Steve Bender aka The Grumpy Gardener - Host Nellah McGough - Co-Host Krissy Tiglias - GM, Southern Living Lottie Leymarie - Executive Producer Michael Onufrak - Audio Engineer/Producer Isaac Nunn - Recording Tech Lea…

1
"I kidnapped a plaster cow from Perry Farm Park." 12:42

3M ago12:42

12:42

Every town has landmarks, but what happens when a group of bored teenagers decides to relocate one? In this episode of "This One Time in Kankakee," we bring you the legendary story of a crime that wasn't the crime, and how a 500-pound plaster cow ended up in a suburban living room. In 2008, Shane Whitlock and his friends, armed with a "borrowed" sh…

1
"I was run over with a tractor." 9:35

3M ago9:35

9:35

Welcome to the premiere episode of This One Time in Kankakee, the podcast that uncovers the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Host Jake LaMore kicks off the series with a deeply personal family legend that has been told for nearly 90 years. Travel back to a hot summer day in 1936 Manteno, Illinois. At just three years old, Jake's grand…

1
"A bank robber called me." 14:35

3M ago14:35

14:35

What happens when the subject of your news report calls you directly? In this episode of "This One Time in Kankakee," host Jake LaMore sits down with veteran Kankakee radio news director Rob West (WVLI, WFAV, River Country) for a story that blurs the line between journalism and a real-life crisis negotiation. In 2008, after reporting on a bank robb…

1
Autumn at the Inn, Part 4 32:42

3M ago32:42

32:42

Our story tonight is called Autumn at the Inn, Part Four, and for now it’s the last in this series. It’s a story about a new routine that heals as it unfolds, a morning cup of tea drunk from a window seat on the second floor, a room full of interesting objects, and stories waiting to be heard. It’s also about an armful of letters, a bike ride throu…

1
Mulch Mania 10:06

3M ago10:06

10:06

A reader asks about sowing seeds. Plus, Grumpy’s tip of the week. You can find us online at southernliving.com/askgrumpy Ask Grumpy Credits: Steve Bender aka The Grumpy Gardener - Host Nellah McGough - Co-Host Krissy Tiglias - GM, Southern Living Lottie Leymarie - Executive Producer Michael Onufrak - Audio Engineer/Producer Isaac Nunn - Recording T…

1
The Porch Steps (Encore) 33:13

3M ago33:13

33:13

Originally presented as Season 12, Episode 19, October 2, 2023 Our story tonight is called The Porch Steps, and it’s a story about tending to a satisfying chore on a cool day. It’s also about acorns falling on the sidewalk, the scent of a wood fire on a cool night, a daydream about the wind, and stepping back to take in a job well done. Subscribe t…

1
Tomato Trauma 10:03

3M ago10:03

10:03

A reader has concerns about their white-spotted tomatoes. Plus, the plant of the week. You can find us online at southernliving.com/askgrumpy Ask Grumpy Credits: Steve Bender aka The Grumpy Gardener - Host Nellah McGough - Co-Host Krissy Tiglias - GM, Southern Living Lottie Leymarie - Executive Producer Michael Onufrak - Audio Engineer/Producer Isa…

1
This One Time in Kankakee: Stories That Shaped Our Community 1:09

3M ago1:09

1:09

Discover the heart and humor of Kankakee County in This One Time in Kankakee, a narrative storytelling podcast hosted by Jake LaMore, featuring unforgettable true stories from local voices. From a childhood memory of surviving a tractor accident, to a phone call from a bank robber, to the Perry Farm cow statue ending up in a living room—these are t…

1
Autumn at the Inn, Part 3 44:30

3M ago44:30

44:30

Our story tonight is called Autumn at the Inn, Part Three. And, you guessed it, it is a continuation of the last two episodes. Though you don't need to go back and listen to those if you slept through them, which I hope you did. This is a story about arriving somewhere you've never been, but where you feel instantly at home. It's also about eucalyp…

1
No Rose Without a Thorn 10:20

3M ago10:20

10:20

A reader has a burning rose bush question. Plus, tip of the week. You can find us online at southernliving.com/askgrumpy Ask Grumpy Credits: Steve Bender aka The Grumpy Gardener - Host Nellah McGough - Co-Host Krissy Tiglias - GM, Southern Living Lottie Leymarie - Executive Producer Michael Onufrak - Audio Engineer/Producer Isaac Nunn - Recording T…

1
Chef and Sycamore (Encore) 34:54

3M ago34:54

34:54

Our story tonight is called Chef and Sycamore, and it’s a story about an afternoon in the kitchens at the Inn, as jars of pickles are lowered into the canner. It’s also about sheets of labels ready to add to the jars, the view of the hammocks in the side yard, and a kitty waiting not-so-patiently to play. For a limited time, you can try OneSkin wit…

1
It’s Time To Fertilize 7:25

3M ago7:25

7:25

A reader struggles with wild petunias. Plus, the tip of the week. You can find us online at southernliving.com/askgrumpy Ask Grumpy Credits: Steve Bender aka The Grumpy Gardener - Host Nellah McGough - Co-Host Krissy Tiglias - GM, Southern Living Lottie Leymarie - Executive Producer Michael Onufrak - Audio Engineer/Producer Isaac Nunn - Recording T…