WGN Radio’s Dave Plier celebrates the life and legacy of TV legend Phil Donahue and shares his 2020 interview with Phil and his wife, Marlo Thomas, on the secrets to a long-lasting marriage. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/5936776/5936776_2024-08-24-015916.64kmono.mp3 Legendary TV host Phil Donahue dies at age 88 Remembering Phil Donahue Recent Po…

Brad Linder is the Founder and Chief Transformation Officer of Get You In Shape in Coppell, TX. As a former professional basketball player, Brad utilized his knowledge from a master’s degree in health, Kinesiology, and Sport Studies to optimize his performance. In his mid-20s, Brad moved to North Texas as a complete leap of faith and started attend…

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier sits down with Dr. Ian Smith to talk about the inspiration behind his Chicago-based new novel ’Eagle Rock’ and healthy habits for kids, parents, and grandparents as the school year begins. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/5926048/5926048_2024-08-23-205048.64kmono.mp3 Recent Posts Dave Plier Celebrating the life and legacy of …

Anand Bheemarasetti is a modern missionary, business entrepreneur, media specialist, and community organizer who has dedicated himself to a life of service by following the inspiration of St. Mother Theresa of Calcutta. Anand shares the incredible tale of his journey to America and the little things he had to learn that we often take for granted, s…

In this episode, we discuss the vital value of outside eyes on our ministry and how a consulting firm can assist in strengthening your discipleship, groups, and church ministries. Qualitatively, we discuss discipleship measurements. Instead of just asking disciples to do and do more, we ask the question, "What are they becoming?" Replicating groups…

Anand Bheemarasetti is a modern missionary, business entrepreneur, media specialist, and community organizer who has dedicated himself to a life of service by following the inspiration of St. Mother Theresa of Calcutta. After outfitting the BeatiDudes with traditional Indian clothing, Anand shares his story of his roots and his transition to the Un…

This year marks the 50th anniversary of classic TV sitcom ‘Happy Days,’ which debuted in 1974! WGN Radio’s Dave Plier discusses the cultural impact of the series with the stars of the show including Marion Ross (Mrs. C.), Anson Williams (Potsie Weber), Don Most (Ralph Malph) and Henry Winkler (The Fonz). https://serve.castfire.com/audio/5810979/581…

In 1960, Bill Sladek’s mom was told that she should not carry her baby to term due to her age and previous pregnancy issues. She told her doctor that “God doesn’t make mistakes” and welcomed baby Bill in June of that year. Bill’s wife, Mary, has a similar story about her heroic mom and the battle she endured to continue her pregnancy despite the he…

The BeatiDudes proudly welcome their hero and friend, Bill Sladek, for a look back at his life of service. Bill and his wife answer the call to help others and serve God daily with their time, talent, and treasure. Not only does this inspiring couple lend financial support to various organizations and serve as chairs for various fundraisers, but th…

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier celebrates the eighties with part two of his radio special: ‘Totally the 80’s’, featuring conversations with Robert Hays from ‘Airplane’, Valerie Bertinelli from ‘One Day at a Time’, Chicago’s own Michael Gross from ‘Family Ties’, Chicago’s own Fred Savage from ‘The Wonder Years’, Alan Ruck from ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’ and…

The BeatiDudes set up a booth at the 10th National Eucharistic Congress (NEC) for one day of open recording with new friends, old buddies, and a handful of repeat guests. Part One of this three-episode series jumps right in with the BeatiDudes’ first guest, a man who started off as a stranger walking by and quickly became an all-time BeatiDude favo…

Fr. Dave Pivonka, President of Franciscan University in Steubenville, joins The BeatiDudes at the National Eucharistic Congress for the first live-audience episode in the show’s history. The episode weaves together many important aspects of college life, the Eucharist, the need for humor, reasons for hope, the harm of smartphones, the root of anxie…

Don Barnes from 38 Special celebrates the band’s 50th Anniversary with WGN Radio’s Dave Plier, talks about how the band was formed, how they came up with the names, and the stories behind their biggest hits. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/5482904/5482904_2024-08-02-182104.64kmono.mp3 Nostalgia Stories: Don Barnes of 38 Special Recent Posts Dave P…

Retired WGN Radio newsman Roger Badesch joins WGN Radio’s Dave Plier to explore common sayings and the unusual stories behind them including ‘Paint the town red’, ‘Blood is thicker than water’, ‘Let the cat out of the bag’, ‘Mind your Ps and Qs’ and more. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/5488221/5488221_2024-08-03-002121.64kmono.mp3 Recent Posts Da…

Pradeep Thoppil is very aware of his “Yes” to the calling Jesus put on his heart as a husband, a father, and a son of God. He has been intentional about building authentic fraternity with his brothers in Christ, and this episode highlights his commitment to others as he shows his love, support, and prayers for Jeff and his son, Benny Pro, who is cu…

Having just finished his studies at Xavier in New Orleans, Pradeep Thoppil started working at Tulane Medical Center shortly before Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005. As a first-year pharmacist, he was eager to help the team and volunteered to join the pre-hurricane team. He had no idea that when he entered the hospital that day, he would not leave unti…

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to actress Julia Duffy on the legacy of Bob Newhart, eight seasons on ‘Newhart’ and her latest role on Palm Royale with Carol Burnett and Kristen Wiig. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/5407576/5407576_2024-07-27-014316.64kmono.mp3 Recent Posts Dave Plier Celebrating the life and legacy of Phil Donahue .cls-7{fill:#fff;f…

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier catches up with actor and comedian Matt Walsh on the relevance of HBO’s ‘Veep’ today, his latest role on ‘Manhunt’ about the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln and his improv journey with Players Workshop, Upright Citizens Brigade and IO Chicago and their IOFest all weekend long. For tickets and more, visit ioimprov.c…

Editor and Chief of Nostalgia Digest Magazine Steve Darnall talks to WGN Radio’s Dave Plier about their summer edition including the fashion statements of Lucille Ball, Lassie, the 90th anniversary of The Lux Radio Theater and more! Nostalgiadigest.com. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/5407381/5407381_2024-07-27-012221.64kmono.mp3 Recent Posts Dave…

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier welcomes Jeff Lundberg of the Chicago Jazz Orchestra and vocalist Paul Marinaro to talk about the history of the orchestra, Paul’s inspirations on stage, and the upcoming ‘Sinatra by Request’ at the Studebaker Theater on Sunday August 25, 2024. For tickets visit CJOmusic.org. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/5360026/5360026_2…

Mitch Boersma and his wife Rosie have a gaggle of kids, with number 6 due towards the end of 2024. Their daily intention is to Catechize the children and grow a faithful Catholic family together. Mitch reflects on the ups and downs of raising kids and the unique ways that each of his kid’s namesake saints seems to be a perfect match for their perso…

Mitch Boersma’s visit to the BeatiDudes was a bit of a homecoming after he graduated from the nearby University of Dallas in 2008, where he switched his majors from Theology to Business. Mitch is the Chief Operating Officer of the Catholic Information Center and co-founder of The Leonine Forum – a year-long program dedicated to giving young profess…

In this episode, we discuss the Suicide epidemic in America and how small groups can play a role in remedying the situation with expert Jon Noyes from Stand to Reason, who travels the country speaking on this pertinent topic. Jon has worked as a speaker with Stand to Reason since 2019. A former atheist, Jon used to think belief in God was unwarrant…

Kyle Washut, president of Wyoming Catholic College, joins the bonus show to discuss the trials and triumphs of family life. He and his wife Erin are happily raising their six kids, ranging from high school to one year old. Kyle attributes all family triumphs to the work of our Lord and recognizes that we are not the responsible party for all the go…

Kyle Washut is the youngest Catholic president at the youngest Catholic college in America. Kyle, President at Wyoming Catholic College (WCC), joins The BeatiDudes for an adventurous episode full of surprises, including the unique approach that WCC takes to educating and forming its students. WCC is a “great books school” where every student starts…

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Chicago radio legend Kevin Matthews about his new book ‘Mary’s Roadie’ and his journey in radio. Jim Shorts also takes over ‘The Dave Plier Show’ via satellite to tell listeners that Dave has been fired (not true) and also talks about the upcoming Chicago Bears season, his ‘casino’ and more. https://serve.castfire.co…

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Neal Schon from Journey, who is in town to play Wrigley Field on Monday, July 15, 2024, along with The Steve Miller Band and Def Leppard. Dave and Neal talk about the band’s five decades in rock, the mega-hit ‘Don’t Stop Believin’, Neal’s guitar collection, and more! https://serve.castfire.c…

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Craig Klatzco of Novelty Golf in Lincolnwood about his iconic miniature golf course and The Bunny Hutch, celebrating 75 years and the weekend-long event on July 20 and 21, 2024 with LIVE music, photo booths, their classic arcade, discounts and fun for all ages! Noveltygolf.com. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/530292…

Jim Hickey leads the BeatiDudes through a unique bonus episode, reflecting on Tara Grinstead's 2005 disappearance and the subsequent investigative podcast featuring her story, “Up and Vanished.” Jim had dated Tara before her disappearance, and thanks to that podcast, the mystery was solved, justice was served, and Jim was also proven innocent. Refl…

Jim Hickey brings the spicy to The BeatiDudes by sharing a full-blown meal from his Dallas-based restaurant Charlie’s Creole Kitchen. Instead of finishing the show differently, the entire show takes place over the course of appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Jim was raised by a father who left the church and a mother who practiced her Christia…

WGN Radio’s ‘The Dave Plier Show’ presents ‘The Women of Rock’ featuring conversations with music legends Joan Jett, Debbie Harry, Pat Benatar and Suzi Quatro. Included are bonus interviews with Melissa Etheridge, Vicki Peterson (The Bangles) and original MTV veejay Nina Blackwood. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/5275249/5275249_2024-07-06-181749.…

Flip Howard is a dynamic entrepreneur and Catholic leader who is a role model for Catholic husbands, fathers, and now grandfathers. He has seven kids and three grandkids, and he shares a wealth of knowledge and wisdom in bite-sized nuggets. Flip shares his family journey, starting with the first time he met his future wife on the campus of Francisc…

Flip Howard is a dynamic entrepreneur and Catholic leader who truly serves as a role model for Catholic husbands, fathers, and now grandfathers. Flip arrives in style, bringing his private-label blended whiskey to share with the BeatiDudes in an episode that begins with a recall of great pranks before moving into Flip’s entrepreneurship journey. Ea…

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier shares his conversation with rock legend Kevin Cronin on his summer tour, the band’s rise to fame, the meaning behind ‘REO Speedwagon,’ and more! https://serve.castfire.com/audio/5249284/5249284_2024-06-28-202324.128.mp3 Recent Posts Dave Plier Celebrating the life and legacy of Phil Donahue .cls-7{fill:#fff;fill-rule:evenodd…

As iconic TV anthology series ‘The Twilight Zone’ celebrates its 65th Anniversary, WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to the daughter of TV legend Rod Serling, writer Anne Serling, on her father’s legacy, ‘The Twilight Zone’ and ‘Night Gallery’. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/5249282/5249282_2024-06-28-201522.128.mp3 Recent Posts Dave Plier Celebrating…

Children’s television historian Jim Engel talks to WGN Radio’s Dave Plier about WGN-TV’s Ray Rayner, celebrating the 1964 launch of his own self-titled show ’Ray Rayner & His Friends’ which premiered 60 years ago along with Cuddly Dudley, ‘Ark in the Park’ with Dr. Lester Fisher and Chelveston the Duck, his years on ‘Bozo’s Circus’ as Oliver O. Oli…

Robert Tunmire from Heroic Men is back for a bonus episode about ensuring we get up each day and put in our 10% to match the 90% that comes through the Holy Spirit. Joining forces with Tim Grey and the Augustine Institute team, Robert helped launch an incredible ministry to men resource called Heroic Men. Robert explains why they use the term “mini…

After an incredibly successful career in the franchising industry, Robert Tunmire is now using his experience and expertise to deliver ministry to men worldwide. Robert shares the details of his journey, starting with his withdrawal from high school to run his first company and the subsequent business successes for decades. At 40, God shook Robert …

Conor Donahue, co-founder and COO of ACE is back for a bonus show about his journey into entrepreneurship. Ace combines cutting-edge Virtual Reality with a stunningly realistic handset to transform your shooting. With Ace, you can build your fundamentals of marksmanship, compete with friends in online drills, and experience a variety of minigames o…

After serving as a United States Navy SEAL, Conor Donahue continues to apply his unique blend of faith, fortitude, and focus to serve in his roles as a husband, father, parish leader, and business owner. Conor grew up in northern Virginia with a strong faith foundation. He shares his fascinating journey to join the Navy SEALS by taking us back thro…

Comedy legend Robert Smigel joins WGN Radio’s Dave Plier! Smigel is the voice of Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, he’s co-written films with Adam Sandler, wrote sketches on 425 episodes of SNL, and he has won countless Writer’s Guild and Primetime Emmy Awards throughout the years. His contemporaries at Saturday Night Live were Conan O’Brien, Bob Odenk…

WGN-TV’s Mike Lowe talks about his exemplary reporting and today’s press conference on infrastructure investments. Mike then talks about his recent cancer diagnosis, the importance of early detection and seeing your doctor, new statistics on cancer rising in people under 50, and beating this! You’ve got this, Mike! https://serve.castfire.com/audio/…

WGN’s Dave Plier and Wally Podrazik, television historian and author of ‘Watching TV’, break down top TV dads by decade including Howard Cunningham (‘Happy Days’), Andy Taylor (‘The Andy Griffith Show’), Jim Anderson (‘Father Knows Best’), Mike Brady (‘The Brady Bunch’), Archie Bunker (‘Archie Bunker’s Place’), Cliff Huxtable (‘The Cosby Show’) Phi…

Scott Dehn from the McHenry Outdoor Theatre and drive-in documentarian April Wright talk to WGN Radio’s Dave Plier about the revival of the drive-in theater, a true piece of Americana, discovering the retro magic, and watching cinema under the stars. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/5138129/5138129_2024-06-14-215329.64kmono.mp3 Recent Posts Dave Pl…

Andrew Rawicki is back and showed up in style. His t-shirt features all 10 of his grandchildren, which is a sight to behold. After his recent retirement, Andrew has continued to pour his time and energy into his family and his work with Regnum Christi, where he currently serves as the local director for North Texas. He shares with us his journey to…

This episode is dedicated to Jerzy Rawicki, holocaust survivor and father of our guest, Andrew Rawicki. Andrew and his wife JoAnna have created a legacy of faith and love for their six children and ten grandchildren. After recounting his journey to the Church and his courtship with his wife, Andrew shares the harrowing tale of his father’s escape f…

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Smashing Pumpkins frontman and Chicago music icon Billy Corgan about the CW’s ‘Adventures in Carnyland’, the National Wrestling Alliance, the Smashing Pumpkins summer tour, Bozo, and more. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/5068115/5068115_2024-06-08-011115.64kmono.mp3 Get up-close and personal with Billy Corgan in ‘Bi…

Barely living comedy legend John Cleese is heading to Chicago for a truly memorable evening of comedy and conversation at the Vic Theatre on Wednesday, June 12th and Thursday, June 13th. John talks to WGN Radio’s Dave Plier about his journey in comedy, Monty Python, Fawlty Towers and how political correctness is killing comedy. https://serve.castfi…

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks about this week’s news that Dr Pepper is now the second-most popular soda brand in America, outselling Pepsi and behind Coca-Cola. Dave also shares the history of sodas that were created in Chicago and the retro soda brands we still love. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/5068109/5068109_2024-06-08-004009.64kmono.mp3 Dr …

On this bonus episode of The BeatiDudes, Evan Woolsoncroft shares the details of his personal life and the intentional formation he and his wife bring into their home. After meeting each other as FOCUS missionaries, Evan and his wife found themselves quickly dating and married not long after. Together they are raising their four kids while honoring…