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Welcome
The Emerging Menace Podcast.
Human Interest, Headlines,
Sports, Politics, Facts, Fiction
& Fun all without Ketchup.
The "Chicago Way."
About Ken
- Ken grew up on the Northwest side of Chicago. His radio background includes: WKDC/ On-Air host in Elmhurst then WMAQ & WGN radio as a Board operator & Producer. He also worked at WCLR/WTMX & WLS in other capacities. Ken is a Bass Player/Vocalist and spent 38 years playing in his 8-piece band all around Chicagoland.
About Frank
- Frank also grew up on the Northwest side of Chicago and was Ken's neighbor for 27 years. He is an Investment/Stock Advisor and Insurance specialist. Frank has great knowledge of classic cars, automotive electronics and telecommunications. His insight, humor and sarcasm make him the perfect fit side by side with Ken.
here's a few of my favorite podcasts with george.
Episode #23 Air Conditioning Wars
A/C Wars have started at Ken's house again. George has it so cold in house you could store meat! Has Technology passed you by? Ken gets a call from a salesperson, and he can't understand what the young man is selling. Ken talks about his James Taylor concert debacle, A Caitlin Clark update and George goes off on a Dr. Phil episode.
Episode #34: Labor Day & The Green Car
It's Labor Day. Hear the FULL story of how the "Green Car" came to be after Ken's friend took his car to Earl Scheib to get painted. It's hilarious! Illinois wants to change their flag. Boeing & NASA issues. George gives us some Labor Day history and Unions are discussed.
Episode # 43 Neighbors, Doctors & Bugs "Oh My!"
Both are quite upset in this episode. Ken had a run-in with a neighbor and George a misunderstanding with his doctor's office. Then, they talk about the importance of voting and finally, Gary from Envirosafe Pest Management stops by with tips on getting your home ready for the Fall & Winter weather for bugs and other pests.
Episode #57 Oh that Smell!
George is back from Florida. The meteorologists were wrong again. Illinois is raking in the money with cannabis and Dean from the band Infinity drops by to tell us how the City of Chicago smells. Ken recalls a story from High School, Former Illinois Governor Blago gets pardoned. Don't call a Waiter by their first name plus Ken's Day in front of his city council. Finally, old Chicago Pop (sodas) are reminisced. Customers have questions, you have answers. Display the most frequently asked questions, so everybody benefits.
Episode #59 A Near Miss?
Is flying getting dangerous? Ken & George discuss a few mishaps and a recent one in Chicago. Does a certain song remind you of something? A quick Doors recap, Phones in School and the Buckingham Fountain was controlled where? Another great episode. Enjoy!
Episode #61: Cash is No Longer King.
Ken loses his wallet in Las Vegas, and the Merry-Go-Round games begin. Useless money and we are now a cashless society. George rants about his Credit Union, Ken sees his first "Driverless" car. Illinois is almost broke and its now George's turn to have a run-in with his neighbor.
Episode #84 Rick Odell
He was synonymous with Sunday Brunch hosting WNUA's radio show in Chicago and then continued his successful career by programming MeTV 87.7 FM Join us as we talk with Rick Odell on Podcast #84
Episode #24 Roz Varon
Roz Varon worked at ABC7 Chicago for 35 years as a Traffic & Transportation Anchor/Reporter. She is known for having been the first person in the country to report traffic reports on morning television. She is an Author, Philanthropist and Breast Cancer survivor. It's a fascinating interview about determination and dedication
Meet our Past Guests
Unique and Interesting Guests.
I enjoy having guests on the show, but not just any guests. I want to find them interesting, a "Pro" in their field where their profession and commentary really mean something. That's what I strive to do. My guests have interesting backgrounds, stories and career paths that have impacted people in different ways. Whether it's a News anchor to an Actor, Therapist, Realtor, Radio Programmer, Pest control manager, CEO's, Musicians, Investment brokers, Sports show hosts, Transportation reporters, a Chef and yes, even an Award-winning Pumpkin grower. I hope you have enjoyed the interviews. I will continue to look for interesting and unusual guests. If you have a topic that you would like me to discuss or a suggestion for a guest, please contact me at theemergingmernace@gmail.com
Thanks for listening!
Ken
See it to Believe it: The Emerging Menace Podcast in Pictures
About The Emerging Menace Podcast
How it all started
How it all started
How it all started
- I wanted to get back into broadcasting and decided that a podcast was just what I wanted to do. Ironically, I got reconnected with my College News man George Howe. (Listen to podcast #1 to hear the story) We launched our first show on 2/4/23. Together, we produced 95 shows until sadly, George passed away suddenly on November 13, 2025
Now What?
How it all started
How it all started
- I had to decide what to do next. Continue the Podcast? or, quit. After much debate I decided I wanted to continue and I believe George would want me too. So, I set out looking for a new co-host and who knew, he was right next door. Well, he was my neighbor for 27 years growing up.
Re-launch 2.0
How it all started
Re-launch 2.0
- The Podcast has taken on a different life. Still focused on Chicago, the State of Illinois and local stories. We've expanded it to also consider some National stories and issues as well. Frank brings a different perspective and that's a good thing. I know George would be proud and is listening.