Best Heather Kenney Podcasts (2025)

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Positive on Pekin - A perspective from Mary Ann Ladendorf 21:22

21h ago21:22

21:22

Today, Gary has guest Mary Ann Ladendorf behind the mic to talk about all that the City of Pekin has to offer her clients as they move into the city.By Gary Gillis - Host

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George C. Parker: The Con Artist Who Sold the Brooklyn Bridge and His Enduring Legacy 38:03

20h ago38:03

38:03

Send us a text George C. Parker was a notorious con artist who famously sold the Brooklyn Bridge over 3,000 times. His story highlights the audacity of deception, the gullibility of those seeking dreams, and the evolution of law enforcement against crime, ultimately teaching us to remain vigilant against such schemes today. • Exploration of George …

1
The St. Valentine's Day Massacre: Gang Rivalries, Public Outcry, and the End of Prohibition 35:51

4d ago35:51

35:51

Send us a text The St. Valentine's Day Massacre exemplifies the bloody clashes between organized crime factions during the Prohibition era, highlighting the impact such violence has on public perception and law enforcement response. This chilling act of gang warfare not only shocked a nation but also prompted significant shifts in societal attitude…

1
David Edward Moust: A Serial Killer's Path and a Failed Justice System 46:55

8d ago46:55

46:55

Send us a text David Moust's case illustrates the catastrophic failures of the criminal justice system in addressing the needs of individuals with severe mental health issues and violent tendencies. Through a chronicle of his life, the episode discusses the systemic lack of accountability that ultimately allowed him to return to society after multi…

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#AttendanceMatters - PCHS tackles the attendance issue post Covid 20:32

8d ago20:32

20:32

This week, Gary talks with Shayla Ewing and Ashley Neal from Pekin Community High School about a clever program to encourage kids to have more regular attendance.By Gary Gillis - Host

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Marjorie Jackson: The Eccentric Heiress, Her Murder, and the Mystery of Missing Millions 34:27

15d ago34:27

34:27

Send us a text Marjorie Jackson, an eccentric millionaire heiress, becomes a target for robbery and intrigue due to her vast concealed wealth, leading to her tragic murder in 1977. This episode explores themes of vulnerability, societal neglect, and the dark intersections of wealth and crime. • Marjorie's early life and ascent to wealth • Her distr…

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Wrap up of the Bicentennial Celebration 26:29

22d ago26:29

26:29

This week Gary and Terri Gambetti talk about the successful Pekin Bicentennial Celebration and all of the events that were planned monthly.By Gary Gillis - Host

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Missouri State Penitentiary: A Legacy of Reform and Injustice 55:52

22d ago55:52

55:52

Send us a text Missouri State Penitentiary, once a notorious symbol of America’s correctional system, offers an unsettling reflection on incarceration's evolution over 170 years. The episode delves into MSP’s dark history, its notorious inmates, failed reform efforts, and the prison’s eventual closure in 2004, encapsulating a legacy that continues …

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Pets as Protectors: True Tales of Furry Heroes 27:44

29d ago27:44

27:44

Send us a text This episode features remarkable stories of pets who acted heroically to protect their human families during attempted break-ins. From a brave German Shepherd to a relentless cat and a fearless squirrel, we explore how these animals embody loyalty and courage in the face of danger. • Discussing the protective instincts of dogs and ho…

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"How did it go on Election Day in Tazewell County?" 19:37

29d ago19:37

19:37

This week Gary talks with Tazewell County Clerk John Ackerman about how things went locally in the past historic election. The upcoming local election on April 1st was also discussed.By Gary Gillis - Host

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The Colorado Coal Field Wars: The Ludlow Massacre 1:11:55

1M ago1:11:55

1:11:55

Send us a text The episode unearths the tragic story of the Ludlow Massacre, drawing connections between past labor struggles and the contemporary fight for workers' rights. It highlights the desperate conditions faced by miners and their families, ultimately leading to a violent confrontation that reshaped labor relations in the United States. • O…

1
Charles Harrelson; the story of a killer 33:15

1M ago33:15

33:15

Send us a text The episode illuminates the complicated legacy of Charles Harrelson, a notorious hitman and father of actor Woody Harrelson. We explore family dynamics, the impact of criminality on relationships, and the assassination of Judge John H. Wood Jr., outlining how crime and familial loyalty intertwined in tragic ways. • Examination of Cha…

1
"Attacking the Myth" 22:42

1M ago22:42

22:42

Gary talks with John Ackerman who gives some perspective on Pekin's supposedly past racist reputation.By Gary Gillis - Host

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Willie Sutton: The Gentleman Robber and His Enduring Legacy 47:06

2M ago47:06

47:06

Send us a text Unlock the captivating world of Willie Sutton, the infamous bank robber whose charm and cunning made him a legend of his time. Discover how Sutton's non-violent approach to crime and his transformation into a folk hero offered a unique perspective on the interplay between criminality and society during the Prohibition era. We'll unra…

1
The Lawson Family Christmas Massacre 57:34

2M ago57:34

57:34

Send us a text The episode delves into the tragic events surrounding the Lawson family murders, which occurred on Christmas Day in 1929 amidst the Great Depression. It highlights the struggles of the family leading up to the horrific act, the psychological motivations behind it, and the community's response to this monumental tragedy, aiming to kee…

1
"I.T. Workforce Accelerator" What is it? 19:48

2M ago19:48

19:48

This week Gary interviews Carolyn Cracraft-Coordinator for this free, grant supported I.T. training program.By Gary Gillis - Host

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The Death of Za'Zell Preston and Tragic Reality of Domestic Violence 49:28

2M ago49:28

49:28

Send us a text Domestic violence isn't just a statistic—it’s a harsh reality that often escalates during the holiday season, affecting countless individuals and families. We explore this troubling phenomenon through the lens of Heather's extensive experience in domestic violence units. With her insights, we break down societal misconceptions, highl…

1
A Time WWII POW's Visited Pekin 16:10

2M ago16:10

16:10

This week Gary and Jared Olar talk about a visit to Pekin Schools by WWII POW's.By Gary Gillis - Host

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Eastern State's Dark Legacy of Isolation and Corruption 58:18

3M ago58:18

58:18

Send us a text Prepare to rethink everything you thought you knew about prison reform. Eastern State Penitentiary, established in 1829, was a radical experiment in solitary confinement, driven by Quaker ideals of repentance and reflection. What began as a groundbreaking vision quickly unraveled into a cautionary tale of psychological trauma and sys…

1
Bicentennial Stories about Pekin Business and Industry 24:33

3M ago24:33

24:33

This week Gary and Jared Olar talk about the history of Pekin's Business and Industry.By Gary Gillis - Host

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Heather's Blind Episode: Terry Barton and the Hayman Fire 1:37:42

3M ago1:37:42

1:37:42

Send us a text What if one moment of personal crisis could ignite a wildfire of unimaginable chaos and destruction? Join us as we delve into the story of the Hayman Fire of 2002, the largest wildfire in Colorado's history, with over 137,000 acres consumed. We explore the complexities of the fire's origin, the media's amplification of the disaster, …

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The Next Phase of Pekin's Streetscape 16:55

3M ago16:55

16:55

Gary talks with Pekin City Engineer, Josie Esker about the next phase of the Court Street Project.By Gary Gillis - Host

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A Nostalgic Look Back at the Pekin Mall 20:12

3M ago20:12

20:12

This week Gary discusses with Gary Cassidy about a place he grew up at, the Pekin Mall.By Gary Gillis - Host

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Brenda Spencer: Unraveling the Tragedy and Its Aftermath 1:00:29

4M ago1:00:29

1:00:29

Send us a text What compels a 16-year-old to open fire on a school, claiming, “I don’t like Mondays”? It's a question that has haunted us since Brenda Spencer’s shocking actions on January 29, 1979. Our latest episode peels back the layers of this tragic event, unraveling the story behind the Boomtown Rats' infamous song and examining how Brenda’s …

1
The Spectacle of Dillinger's Pursuit and Ultimate End 48:29

4M ago48:29

48:29

Send us a text Escape-proof jails and notorious gangsters rarely go in the same sentence, but John Dillinger shattered expectations with his legendary breakout from Crown Point Jail. Was his gun real or a wooden decoy? As we unravel this thrilling escapade, we uncover the audacity that turned Dillinger into a folk hero and the blunders that embarra…

1
WMBD Radio Greg Batton 23:52

4M ago23:52

23:52

Greg Batton is a familiar voice in the Peoria area and has been co-hosting The Greg and Dan Show on WMBD Radio since 2005 with partner Dan Diorio. This week, Gary sits down and talks with Gary about his upbringing in Pekin.By Gary Gillis - Host

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The Rise of John Dillinger: From Farm Boy to Infamous Bank Robber 45:40

4M ago45:40

45:40

Send us a text Unlock the secrets of America's most notorious bank robber, John Dillinger, as we explore his journey from an innocent farm boy to a legendary criminal mastermind. Discover how Dillinger's prison years became his classroom, with mentors like Harry Pierpont and John Hamilton introducing him to Herman Lamb's methodical heist techniques…

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An Interview with Pekin Native Larry Kenney 26:37

5M ago26:37

26:37

This week Gary talks with Larry Kenney who is a graduate of Pekin Hight School and has been in radio broadcasting in several markets including Peoria, and a famous voice in many Cartoons, and other shows. Don't miss this fascinating podcast.By Gary Gillis - Host

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John Dillinger's Descent into Crime 39:13

5M ago39:13

39:13

Send us a text Ever wondered how a small-town boy from Indianapolis ended up as America's most infamous criminal? Join us as we unravel the tumultuous life of John Herbert Dillinger, starting from his early days of petty crime fueled by personal loss and a strict upbringing. You'll learn how Dillinger's failed attempt at reform and a disastrous rob…

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In the Beginning- the Pekin Park District Story 17:05

5M ago17:05

17:05

This week Gary shares the store of how the Pekin Park District was born.By Gary Gillis - Host

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A Look Back in Time - Ray Bianchi & Joyce Johnson 26:42

5M ago26:42

26:42

Gary talks with Ray and Joyce about what Pekin looked like when they were younger. Ray & Joyce talk about the popular places in town they would visit that are no longer there.By Gary Gillis - Host

1
Understanding the Miranda Warning 43:41

5M ago43:41

43:41

Send us a text Can a single Supreme Court case redefine the very essence of police interrogation? Tune in to this gripping episode where we unlock the dramatic journey leading to the establishment of Miranda rights, setting the stage with the historical context of the Fifth and Sixth Amendments. Discover how the landscape of American criminal justi…

1
Jared Olar and the History of Schools in Pekin 26:57

6M ago26:57

26:57

This week Gary and Jared go way back and discuss the history of Pekin Schools including the very first school house in Pekin.By Gary Gillis - Host

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Orville Lynn Majors: Indiana Angel of Death 33:53

6M ago33:53

33:53

Send us a text What if your trusted healthcare provider was actually a harbinger of death? This chilling question sets the stage for our latest episode of Deviant Criminology, where we explore the dark world of medical serial killers. We begin with a haunting scenario: a routine hospital visit that turns into a nightmare. This episode unravels the …

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Pekin Alliance for Literacy Success - Len Ealey 14:27

6M ago14:27

14:27

This week Gary talks with Superintendent of District 108 about the new Pekin Alliance for Literacy Success program.By Gary Gillis - Host

1
The 52nd Annual Pekin Marigold Festival Plans 21:37

6M ago21:37

21:37

This week Bailey Gambetti and Amy McCoy join Gary to talk about new additions to the Festival this year and more!By Gary Gillis - Host

1
Nanny Doss: The Giggling Granny Serial Killer 53:40

6M ago53:40

53:40

Send us a text Could a traumatic brain injury at age seven have paved the way for one of America's most chilling female serial killers? In this episode, we unravel the dark and twisted life of Nanny Doss, known by many as the "Giggling Granny." We'll explore how definitions of a serial killer can vary, providing critical context before delving into…

1
The Brotherton Museum 18:12

7M ago18:12

18:12

This week is a visit with the curator of Pekin's great museum facility in the old Franklin School, Roger Brotherton.By Gary Gillis - Host

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What is murder? 46:18

7M ago46:18

46:18

Send us a text In this episode, Richard and Heather examine the various terms used in the criminal justice system around murder and homicide. Along with defining terms the team also gives examples of each charge. Hopefully this will be educational and entertaining. Can TV shows and movies really shape how we perceive justice? Join us as we unravel …

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Dave Molleck - Editor of the "Hometown Voice" newspaper 20:37

7M ago20:37

20:37

This week Gary talks with Dave Molleck, the Editor of Pekin's new "Hometown Voice" monthly newpaper.By Gary Gillis - Host

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"The Good Old Days" with Dick Schermer 18:04

7M ago18:04

18:04

This week Gary is joined by Dick Schermer - member of the PCHS Class of 1962 who looks back at the City from years ago.By Gary Gillis - Host

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The Veterans Memorial Arena Story 13:16

7M ago13:16

13:16

This week Gary talks again with Shawn Powers about the History and interesting facts about the Veterans Memorial Arena.By Gary Gillis - Host

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Episode Zero - Roll Call 24:47

7M ago24:47

24:47

Send us a text In this episode, our three hosts introduce themselves and give some insight into their backgrounds. This recording was designed to give listeners a little view into the experiences the hosts bring to the podcast and their goals as they develop the show. www.deviantcriminology.comBy Richard Weaver, Heather Kenney, Rachel Czar

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Amber Hagerman and the Amber Alert System 34:36

7M ago34:36

34:36

Send us a text In their first episode the hosts explore the death of Amber Hagerman and how this horrific crime led to the formation of the Amber Alert system. As the first episode of their podcast, they are learning the trade as they apply their criminal justice experiences to the topic. Discover the heartbreaking story that catalyzed a nationwide…

1
July 6th Bicentennial Bash 10:31

8M ago10:31

10:31

This week Gary talks with Shawn Powers, Superintendent of Recreation for the Pekin Park District. They discuss the upcoming July 6th Bicentennial Bash held at the Pekin Park.By Gary Gillis - Host

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Civil Rights Act of 1964 28:38

8M ago28:38

28:38

Tiffany White of the Dirksen Center and Gary visit on the importance and challenges surrounding the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.By Gary Gillis - Host

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Economic Development in Pekin 19:10

8M ago19:10

19:10

Gary talks with Josh Wray, Director of Economic Development for the City of Pekin. Gary and Josh talk about what it takes to bring new business to the City as well as some current projects in the works.By Gary Gillis - Host