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
"I planned a flash mob on the courthouse lawn."
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 bailiffs while sneaking around the Courthouse bushes, and used a "fake cake" to keep his wife from ruining her own surprise. It’s a story about love, logistics, and the community coming together on Court Street.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- The Origin Story: How a misheard name at the hospital made Jeff a "Kankakee legend" from birth.
- The Meet-Cute: A nostalgic look back at dating in the 90s involving Subway sandwiches and Blockbuster nametags.
- The Heist: How Jeff secured "clearance" from a local Judge and hid behind trees to keep the secret.
- The Payoff: What it takes to coordinate a dance routine in the freezing February slush.
Mentioned in this episode:
- Kankakee County Courthouse
- Knights of Columbus
- Busse & Rieck Flowers
- Subway (Bourbonnais)
- The "Eagle" distraction technique 🦅
Have a Kankakee story? We want to hear it! Email jake@milnermediapartners.com to tell us about "This one time in Kankakee..."
Want more from the WVLI Podcast Network? Listen to the WVLI News Update with Rob West every weekday morning! Get the days local news from the greater Kankakee County, IL area in 10 minutes or less.
Subscribe now on your preferred podcast platform: https://wvlinewsupdate.buzzsprout.com
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