The Morning Routine

The Morning Routine with Rocki and Lacey was joined by Michael Thomas from Express Employment Professionals for the 10/22/2025 edition of Circle of Friends. We caught up about his work with therapy horses and the current job market in the 217 area and around. We also got his best tips for being a good interviewee-be sure to check all of that out at the podcast below!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This morning, Rocki and Lacey spoke with Josh Flanders of Buzz Bomb Brewing Co. They concentrated on all things Halloween! For all the details, check out the conversation!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Morning Routine with Rocki and Lacey were joined by Ryan McCrady from the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance to talk about all of the growth happening in and around the Sangamon County area. Ryan updated us on all of the big thing happening at the new Scheel's Sports Dome, and educated both of us on what potential data centers would bring to the Springfield area.  We're always excited to learn from Ryan!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This morning, Rocki and Lacey spoke with Austin. They got a great update on all things "Vegan Chef Challenge." Listen to the conversation for great updates and tasty menu items!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Lou Bart and CEO Angie Sowle of the YMCA came in to talk about all of the amazing things happening at the Y this fall season. Get all the details in the convo! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Josh and Ed Carter are so fun to talk to. Get all the info in the conversation on how to get spooked this Halloween season! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Morning Routine with Rocki and Lacey was joined by Circle of Friends Ward 5 Alderwoman LaKeisha Purchase. They talked about the recent Friends of the Farmer's Market Dinner, the Mother Road Festival over the previous weekend, and our upcoming collaboration raising funds for the Strong Kids Fund at the YMCA. We had several callers join in the conversation! Listen to all this and more from Lakeisha here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Morning Routine with Rocki & Lacey was joined by Scott Dahl, director of tourism for Visit Springfield, for Circle of Friends. Scott came with shirts for the 24th Annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival and information to boot! We discussed Scott's summer and highlighted the upcoming Diabetes Awareness Month in November. His daughter has type 1 diabetes, which has been a journey for his family to navigate.  We also spent a bit of time highlighting the upcoming Route 66 Mother Road Festival, happening September 26-28, 2025. You can find more information about the Route 66 Mother Road festival here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Morning Routine with Rocki and Lacey were joined by the man of visions himself, Ryan McCrady from the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance. He had a lot to update us on what is growing and changing in the 217 area, including Robin Roberts Stadium, the demolition of the Pillsbury Plant, updated rail lines, and the change in zoning for the new crane company that’s moving into Springfield.   We also spoke at length about the exciting new changes at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport. They are offering early morning and late evening flights to O’Hare, which is a big change in flight schedule, so we are hopeful this will make getting out to business meetings much easier for the Springfield area!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The one and only Tiffany Mathis-Posey joined the Morning Routine with Rocki & Lacey to speak about her work with the Central Illinois Boys & Girls Club.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Morning Routine with Rocki & Lacey were joined by Zach Adams from 1221 Photography and the Illinois Times. They spoke about Zach’s time working in photography, working in Springfield, his work with Illinois Times, and the upcoming 50th anniversary lunch with Illinois times.   We also spoke about mental health, the struggle for men to open up, and the topic of the day, which was “One things that always make me smile is ______.” He was a joy and pleasure to have with us today, and even gifted the 98.7 WNNS studio with some super cool “Your Anxiety is Lying to You” hoodies to wear on our Mental Health Mondays.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week was all about self care. Taylor Stevens talked about all the ways she has committed to taking care of herself this year. It was a pretty inspiring conversation. Check it out now!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rocki & Lacey from the Morning Routine were joined by Deb Martin from the Jared’s Keepers Foundation to discuss suicide prevention in teens, mental health education, advocacy, and their upcoming event, The Healing Plate.   The Healing Plate is a signature fundraising and awareness event that brings together community members, mental health advocates, chefs, and supporters for an evening of culinary inspiration, storytelling, and hope. This year’s event proudly features Chef Alex Belew, winner of Hell’s Kitchen Season 21, who will showcase his culinary talents in support of the foundation’s mission.  Chef Alex will lead a unique dining experience with thoughtfully crafted dishes that symbolize healing, comfort, and resilience. The menu features: Squash Risotto, Confit Shrimp, Fried Herbs Thai salad Mushroom Dusted NY Strip, Truffle Demi, Crispy Potatoes, Cauliflower Puree Sticky Toffee Pudding, Salted Butterscotch, Vanilla Ice Cream The evening includes impactful stories from survivors, advocates, and those affected by teen suicide, aiming to break the stigma surrounding mental health. All proceeds support Jared’s Keepers Foundation programs—such as school presentations, mental health first aid training, and community outreach. The plate symbolizes nourishment and healing. Just as a meal can comfort, conversation and awareness can save lives. This event combines both, inviting people to sit together, share stories, and support change—with world-class dishes prepared by Chef Alex Belew. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rocki & Lacey from the Morning Routine were joined by Taryn Grant from the Springfield Youth Performance Group to talk about their upcoming event, Rock the Conservatory on Saturday, September 13, 2025 8 PM. Taryn is a regular guest for Circle of Friends – we caught up with her about her trip to Paris this summer, back to school, and the excitement of having older children.  Rock the Conservatory is a contemporary fusion of live music and dance featuring the Studio Company Members of SYPG and local musicians directed by Sherman native Tommy Sagins.  This exciting performance will feature rock and roll music performed live, with choreography by professional dance artists.  Live shows take place at 8pm and doors open at 7pm.    Tickets are available here. Use code ROCKWITHROCKI  Rock the Conservatory will be held at Grant Conservatory of Music & Dance at 501 W Elliott Avenue, Springfield, IL.  Sponsored by Landmark Automotive Group. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This morning on the Morning Routine with Rocki & Lacey, they were joined by Ryan McCrady from the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance for the Circle of Friends. They covered a variety of topics including the Springfield State Fair, horse racing, a variety of fish, and the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance partnership with CAP 1908 to host new Monthly Business and Community Sessions. Dominic Watson from CAP 1908 will be hosting the first session on Wednesday, September 25th from 4:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. These sessions are free to attend and will provide entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community members with knowledge, tools, and connections to succeed. Each month will provide insights, resources, and learning opportunities. Upcoming sessions include SSGA101, the basics of site selection, Local & State incentives for business, and marketing on a limited budget. To learn about about SSGA, go to www.thriveinspi.org.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This morning, Melissa Horn came in to discuss the Springfield Chamber's upcoming Job Fair! Listen in for all the details plus some extra laughs! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Jenna Broom came back for a great Circle of Friends Segment. Since the Fair is in full swing, we discussed her favorite fair foods and activities. We also discussed her roll with the Levitt Amp music series and broke down this seasons series of events!  Listen in for great details! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This morning, Rocki spoke with Staff Srgt. Adam Huntoon of the U.S Army.  They have a pretty cool set up during the fair, and it's definitely worth stopping by! Listen for more details!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was so great welcoming our friend Jim back in the studio for the Circle of Friends.  He's usually a guy who knows what he likes and sticks with it. Recently he's has been trying different things for a new experience, and it sound like he's been enjoying himself. Tune in for laughs and insight!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This morning, Rocki spoke with 3 fantastic representatives from the Springfield Road Runners Club: Carrie, Heather and John. They came in to discuss two upcoming runs the club is putting on. For all details, listen in! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.