The Ray Stevens Show

Jonathan Hoenig joins The Ray Stevens Show to analyze the latest financial news and its impact on consumers. The conversation covers a broad range of economic topics, from market volatility to the specific ways inflation is affecting everyday purchases. Ray and Jonathan talk about the market's 1,000-point bounce following news of a ceasefire, while also defining what constitutes a technical market "correction". Jonathan notes that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) is running at 3.3%, well above the Federal Reserve's 2% target, leading to a discussion on potential interest rate hikes. They highlight significant price increases across various sectors, including an 11% jump in candy prices, record-high car prices (averaging over $50,000 for new vehicles), and a 20-25% increase in the cost of a general basket of goods over the last few years. They discuss the impact of doubling jet fuel and gas prices, noting that airlines like United are increasing checked bag fees to offset these costs. The conversation also explores high property taxes in states like Illinois—which Hoenig notes are 68% higher than the national average—and the resulting "exodus" of businesses and individuals to lower-tax states.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Lukas joins The Ray Stevens Show to discuss the ongoing work of PAWS Chicago in transforming animal welfare. They highlight the organization's growth and its role in significantly reducing the euthanasia rate of homeless pets in Chicago through large-scale programs and community engagement. Mark outlines the core mission of PAWS Chicago and the progress made in making Chicago a no-kill city since the organization's founding. The discussion emphasizes the impact of the Lurie Clinic and the PAWS Chicago Pet Health Center, which provide essential veterinary services and have performed over 300,000 spay/neuter surgeries. Details are provided for the annual PAWS Chicago Beach Party, a signature summer event held at Castaways to raise funds for their rescue and adoption efforts. They also touch on various ways the community can support PAWS, including the "Angels with Tails" adoption events and opportunities for volunteering and fostering.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

State Representative Brad Stephens (20th District) joins The Ray Stevens Show to discuss The Chicago Bears' Stadium Move, State Rep. Brad Stephens explains the legislative and financial implications of the Bears' potential relocation to Arlington Heights. He emphasizes the importance of a justice system that balances the needs of communities and the team's business interests. He also discusses Payment In Lieu Of Taxes (PILOT) legislation and its potential to manage real estate taxes for major developments, ensuring local taxing bodies like school districts are not negatively impacted. Stephens addresses concerns about state government overreach, particularly regarding local control over housing and transit-related issues. They also touch on the historical and current state of communication between the Mayor of Chicago's office and the state legislature. They conclude with a brief mention of legislation affecting transit and parking requirements for new developments.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Police Chief Bill Kushner joins The Ray Stevens Show to talk about Chicago's rising crime rates in 2026. They talk about some of the factors contributing to these issues, such as the shortage of police officers, a decrease in proactive policing, and the effects of recent legislative changes like the Safety Act. They also touch on concerns regarding public safety, the influence of immigration on crime rates, and the importance of a justice system that effectively deters criminal behavior through the threat of punishment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cody Nance and Matt Palmer, professional bull riders, join The Ray Stevens Show to discuss the upcoming Border Battle at the Now Arena in Hoffman Estates. They share insights into the physical and mental demands of the sport, their personal backgrounds in bull riding, and the evolution of the sport over the years. They also touch on the unique culture of bull riding, the camaraderie among riders, and the excitement surrounding the event as it celebrates its 75th anniversary.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Ryan, Executive Director of Shore Community Services, Joins The Ray Stevens Show to discusses the organization's 75-year history of supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She explains how Shore was founded in 1949 by parents who resisted the then-common practice of institutionalization, starting a school in their basement to provide their daughter and others with a community-based life. They highlight Shore's growth into a comprehensive service provider that now offers vocational training, employment placement, and residential programs for individuals throughout their lifespan, including aging seniors. Ryan also emphasizes the importance of community inclusion and invites interested employers and volunteers to connect with their mission through their website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen Moore Co-Founder, Unleash Prosperity joins The Ray Stevens Show to discusses the high cost of living in major "blue" cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, and New York, attributing it to restrictive fiscal policies and high taxes. He contrasts these challenges with the economic growth and affordability found in Southern states like Tennessee, Texas, and Florida, and mentions the fiscal health of Wisconsin.  They also talk about broader social issues, including declining birth rates and the impact of education systems, specifically comparing the performance and funding of private and Catholic schools versus public schools in Chicago. Additionally, Moore touches on political topics such as the Chicago Teachers Union's protests and the benefits of school choice programs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Indiana Governor Mike Braun joins The Ray Stevens Show to discusses his decision to suspend the state's gas tax for 30 days to provide financial relief to residents amidst rising inflation and global economic instability. He contrasts Indiana's "lean" and fiscally responsible governance with the challenges facing neighboring Illinois, specifically highlighting differences in debt management, budget prioritization, and the potential relocation of the Chicago Bears to Indiana. The conversation also touches on national issues, including federal inflation and the broader geopolitical context affecting energy prices.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mailee Smith from the Illinois Policy Institute joins The Ray Stevens Show to discusses a resolution from the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) and the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Board against a federal program to grant up to $1 billion in donor funds to CPS students for educational needs. She additionally details the opposition's arguments, citing political motivations, and the potential impact of these funds.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chicago-area rheumatologist, Dr. Erin Arnold, joins the Ray Stevens Show to raise concerns about the federal 340B drug pricing program and how it’s playing out here in Illinois. Her argument—based on what she’s seeing in her own practice—is that the program is being misused in ways that are driving up costs, favoring large health systems, and making care less accessible for patients.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brad Schlenker has been detained since December of 2025 after being contracted to fly a family of five to Dubai with a fuel stop in the African nation of Guinea. Brad joins Ray Stevens to explain how events unfolded in what should have been a routine job and share his frustration with American officials as he remains under house arrest in a Guinean hotel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fox News Radio's Jeff Monosso joins Ray and Nick to discuss a new House Bill in the Illinois legislature that would ban the use of facial recognition technology despite the fact that it recently help identify Sheridan Gorman's alleged killer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

General Richard Newton rejoins the Ray Stevens Show to talk about the rescue mission launched to save the lives of two F-15 crew members stuck in Iran after their plane was downed last week and discuss how close the U.S. and Iran may be to a deal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ret. Police Chief Tom Weitzel joins The Ray Stevens Show to talk about the ridiculous criticism hurled toward Police Superintendent Larry Snelling over claims CPD officers worked with ICE agents during the agency's crackdown on the city and why Weitzel feels there's no reason officers shouldn't be collaborating with federal law enforcement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marine Corps veteran Larysa Murray has completed 17 deployments with Team Rubicon, most recently in Alaska following Typhoon Halong. In addition to serving as a volunteer Greyshirt, she works full time to support the mission as Deputy Director of Volunteer Management. She joins Ray and Nick to talk about the origins of Team Rubicon and how they work together to train and deploy volunteers to disaster areas in need of immediate support.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Indiana Gov. Mike Braun returns to the Ray Stevens Show to talk about the latest in negotiations with the Chicago Bears and why Indiana remains a growing state for doing business.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Illinois Policy's Austin Berg joins Nick and Ray to talk about the latest exit from Mayor Johnson's City Hall and why the three major exits are different but all signal chaos within the administrationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charles Lipson, professor emeritus at the University of Chicago, joins Ray to look at the current state of the war in Iran and how the mainstream media is not talking about the success of the U.S. military in hitting its targets.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Washington Post travel reporter Natalie Compton joins Ray Stevens to share updates on the wait times for travelers across the country and discuss why travel is still booming despite the strain on fuel prices.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Military Monday, Ray welcomes Dee Dee Watters to talk about her new project, "Route 66 Centennial: A Journey of Laughter, Life, and Resilience". Dee Dee's father, a Korean War veteran living with dementia, will soon embark on an epic journey down the 'Mother Road' to highlight the human stories tied to Route 66 during its Centennial and raise awareness that many veterans are under-rated in disability benefits. You too can become part of their journey by donating to the GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/3789f035eSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2nd Ward Alderman Brian Hopkins joins The Ray Stevens Show to discuss the latest teen takeover that resulted in 8 arrests and why he's still advocating for the implementation of a 'snap curfew' to curb chaos as summer looms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ohio Representative Jim Jordan returns to The Ray Stevens Show to talk about the insanity of sanctuary city and state policies pushed by Gov. Pritzker and Mayor Johnson, the tragic murder of Loyola freshman Sheridan Gorman, and when TSA agents may finally receive a paycheck.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Chief Border Patrol Agent Chris Clem joins The Ray Stevens Show to share his experience travelling after ICE agents began assisting airport security and weighs in on the shooting of a Loyola University student by a Venezuelan migrant.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shannon Bream joins The Ray Stevens Show to talk about her latest book, Nothing Is Impossible with God: Eleven Heroes. One God. Endless Lessons in Overcoming, and shares her take on how Biblical stories can inform our modern issues and how she learned to balance her successful law and television career with her personal life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ret. Police Chief Tom Weitzel joins Andrea Darlas to discuss the latest in the murder of Sheridan Gorman, including the alleged killer's known run-ins with Border Patrol, his criminal record and the failure of Illinois' lenient criminal policies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Voice of the Illini Brian Barnhart joins Andrea Darlas to talk about the Illini's upcoming battle against Houston in the NCAA men's basketball tournament and why this Illini squad may have the skills to take it all the way to the final.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Retired Riverside Police Chief Tom Weitzel joins Ray and Nick to talk about the tragic shooting of an 18-year-old Loyola student and why the failure to bring in a perp despite multiple calls describing his whereabouts lays in the lap of Mayor Johnson and his hamstringing of public safety protocol.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nathan Jackiw, a 14 year old Life Scout from Troop 270 in Frankfort, joins Ray and Nick to share the massive project he has planned for his Eagle Scout project and how he'll be paying tribute to veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan. For more on Nathan and his project, visit www.nathanseagleproject.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Betting analyst Josh Applebaum gets you ready for March Madness with his tips on how to bet with your brain instead of your heart and explains why he prefers to go against conventional wisdom when making his picks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Phil Flynn, energy analyst for the Price Futures Group, joins Ray and Nick to talk about the state of the energy market following large strikes on oil facilities in Iran and Saudi Arabia and why the price of gas in the U.S. is so rattled by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Max Armstrong joins Ray and Nick to remember the life and work of Orion Samuelson, the beloved Chicago broadcaster who covered agriculture and business like no one else could.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NBC 5's veteran political reporter Mary Ann Ahern joins Ray and Nick to discuss the strange controversy surrounding Rev. Jesse Jackson's endorsement of Senate hopeful Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton and why the late Reverend's family is clarifying the apparent thumbs up towards Stratton's campaign.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rod McCulloch of Victory Research joins Ray and Nick to give his final poll before election night and shares the different storylines running through each campaign.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Laura Michaud, Encore Center for Performing Arts Board Secretary and a founding board member, joins Ray and Nick to talk about partnering with Freedom Sings USA to bring the program to Chicagoland veterans during Memorial Day week 2026. Pairing vets with songwriters, songs are written in one day and performed that evening at a community event on May 28. Veterans can learn more or apply at: https://www.encorecenterforperformingarts.org/freedomsingsapplication See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tax Day is less than a month away and there's plenty of new deductions you can take to save money and get a healthy return thanks to the Big Beautiful Bill.  Tax attorney Dimitra Anderson joins Ray an Nick to share some insight into the new laws and how to get the most on your tax return.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jonathan Hoenig of Capitalist Pig, joins The Ray Stevens Show to discuss current market trends, economic challenges, and technological advancements. Jonathan highlights the significant fluctuations in oil prices, noting a recent peak near $98 a barrel before settling around $93. He links these shifts to broader market instability and the ongoing impact of global conflicts. Major tech stocks, referred to as the "Mag 7" (including Nvidia, Apple, and Tesla), are nearing a technical correction, defined as a 10% decline from recent peaks. January’s core inflation rate of 3.1% significantly exceeds the Fed's 2% goal, leading to expectations that interest rates will remain on hold. Despite economic concerns, Jonathan expresses optimism about American innovation, specifically citing the FAA's selection of eight new proposals for air taxi pilot programs in cities like Dallas, Austin, and New York. A reported 42% of recent college graduates are underemployed, working in roles that do not fully utilize their degrees. This has sparked a discussion on the rising value of trade skills and the shifting requirements of major tech companies that no longer strictly demand four-year degrees.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Lukas from PAWS Chicago Joins The Ray Stevens Show. To discuss raining is essential for building a strong bond between a pet and its owner. Volunteers at PAWS work with shelter animals to establish a baseline of good behavior before they are adopted. When someone adopts from PAWS Chicago, their first training class is included in the adoption fee. Classes can be taken at their training center or online. Beyond basic obedience, PAWS offers fun activities like pet tricks, agility, and "nose work" (where dogs are trained to find specific scents, similar to search-and-rescue or bomb-sniffing dogs). ark highlights an upcoming major adoption event called "Rescue Together," a partnership with Chicago Animal Care and Control aimed at finding homes for as many animals as possible.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Travel expert Natalie Compton, joins The Ray Stevens Show to discuss the logistics and trends for Spring Break 2026. Natalie highlights that despite social media reports of long lines, travel is leveling out. However, she warns of potential delays at major hubs like Chicago O’Hare. She recommends the "TSA PreCheck Touchless ID" for faster processing, noting it's available for several major airlines at O'Hare including Alaska, American, Delta, Southwest, and United. For families seeking warmer weather, Florida, Mexico, and the Caribbean remain the dominant choices for the season.   Plan for wait times at least 20 minutes longer than usual at major airports. Natalie suggests bringing your own snacks to avoid high airport prices, like a "$40 mozzarella stick". Ensure you have your airline’s app downloaded and opt-in for touchless ID before checking in for your flight.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alderman Matt O'Shea of the 19th Ward, joins The Ray Stevens Show to talk about the upcoming South Side Irish Parade. Alderman O'Shea describes the event as a nearly 50-year tradition that celebrates family, faith, and heritage, bringing the community together. They touch on the challenges facing Chicago, with O'Shea advocating for increased collaboration and compromise within the City Council and a move away from finger-pointing and divisive political advertisements. He emphasizes the need for a "less is more" approach to government and a focus on community support. The segment concludes with a nostalgic look at the parade's festive atmosphere, including mentions of local establishments like Cork & Kerry and the shared experiences of residents in neighborhoods like Beverly, Morgan Park, and Mount Greenwood. Would you like me to create a Storybook summary of this community event, complete with narration and illustrations?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony Docimo, the Engineering Manager of the Ford assembly plant in Chicago, joins the Ray Stevens Show to discuss a unique project: a Ford Explorer specially designed for Pope Leo. Docimo shares his excitement and pride in the project, noting the connection some plant workers have to the Pope through St. Rita of Cascia High School, where the Pope formerly taught. The special "Papal" Explorer features unique modifications, including. A 3.3-liter V6 hybrid powertrain, usually only found in Chicago-built police interceptors. Custom interior details, such as Chicago flag seat tags, Chicago skyline stitching on the armrest, and metal scuff plates with a Chicago-to-Vatican design. Personal touches from the Chicago team, including a group photo, handwritten letters, a celebration coin, and vanity license plates. The inclusion of Aurelio's pizza boxes, a nod to the Pope's favorite hometown pizza. Docimo also briefly touches upon other products built at the Chicago plant, such as the Lincoln Aviator and the recently launched Explorer Tremor, while maintaining a focus on quality improvement. The interview concludes with a lighthearted discussion about potential "Chicago-specific" features for future vehicles and the possibility of bulletproof glass for the Papal Explorer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Larkin, the 2026 South Side Irish Parade Queen joins The Ray Stevens Show. They mention some of the rules for being crowned queen, including being between the ages of 21 and 30 and never having been married. Erin discusses the events she has attended, such as visiting a nursing home and reading at a library. The hosts also touch on the upcoming South Side Irish Parade. Erin mentions the possibility of entering the Rose of Tralee process, which she compares to a Miss Universe pageant for Ireland.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. David Kolbaba joins The Ray Stevens Show to discusses a holistic approach to health, focusing on identifying and treating the root causes of chronic ailments rather than just managing symptoms with medication. Dr. Kolbaba advocates for "clinical nutrition" and functional medicine, aiming to restore the body’s natural balance through lifestyle changes and targeted supplementation. They covers common health issues such as fatigue, digestive problems, hormonal imbalances, and inflammation, explaining how these are often interconnected.    He emphasizes the importance of comprehensive testing—including blood work and specialized functional tests—to create personalized health protocols for patients. Listeners are encouraged to take a proactive role in their wellness journey by contacting Dr. Kolbaba’s clinic for evaluations or attending upcoming health seminars.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Connie Esparza, Regional Communications Director for the American Red Cross in Illinois Joins The Ray Stevens Show to provide an update on the organization's relief efforts following recent Kankakee County Tornado. Ray and Connie highlight the immediate needs of the impacted communities and the various ways individuals can offer their support. Connie emphasizes the critical requirement for more volunteers across the region to assist with shelter operations, comfort care, and the distribution of emergency supplies. Due to recent holidays and inclement weather, there is a significant shortage in the regional blood supply. Esparza encourages those who cannot volunteer their time to consider donating blood. While the Red Cross focuses on immediate human needs, Connie acknowledges the community's desire to help with physical tasks like debris and tree removal. She suggests connecting with Kankakee County and other partner organizations for these specific opportunities. Interested individuals are encouraged to visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS to explore volunteer roles, including those that can be performed remotely, such as logistics and inventory management.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GOP Gubernatorial Candidate Ted Dabrowski joins The Ray Stevens Show to discuss outlining his vision for the state's economy, emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility and strategies to stimulate growth. He addresses concerns regarding current taxation levels and proposes measures to reduce government spending while ensuring essential services are maintained. The conversation covers various policy initiatives he intends to implement, including reforms in education and infrastructure to improve the state's overall competitiveness. Dabrowski shares his motivations for running for governor, highlighting his commitment to addressing what he views as long-standing issues within the state government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith, spokesperson for the National Police Association, joins The Ray Stevens show to discuss a landmark legal move in Chicago. After Officer Gregory St. Louis was shot and injured in the line of duty, his legal team filed a lawsuit against the family of the suspect who shot him—a bold "civil counterattack" that Betsy calls "brilliant."  Ray and Betsy dive deep into the trend of police officers seeking civil settlements when they are victims of violence, the current climate of police-community relations in Chicago, and the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie in Arizona.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Barnas from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) joins The Ray Stevens Show. With tax season underway, the BBB and IRS have noted an increase in AI-driven scams. These involve imposter calls or messages using fear tactics, such as claims of unpaid taxes or legal threats. Barnas warns against "storm chasers"—contractors who appear immediately after severe weather, often offering repairs "at no cost" but failing to deliver quality work or vanishing with the money. Ray and Steve highlight the use of urgency and emotion to trick victims, including "grandparent scams" where callers pose as a relative in immediate need of financial help. The organization is celebrating its centennial on April 22nd at Navy Pier, reflecting on its history of promoting business integrity and consumer protection. Listeners are encouraged to use BBB.org to research contractors, access risk calculators, and take educational tests to better identify fishing and phishing attempts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GOP Gubernatorial Candidate Rick Heidner Joins The Ray Stevens Show to talk about how his election run has gone. Heidner emphasizes his 40-year background as a businessman and entrepreneur to argue that Illinois has a "spending problem" rather than a revenue problem. He advocates for lower property and gas taxes, as well as a more favorable climate for job creators. He strongly supports implementing term limits for the Governor's office—specifically "two terms, then go home"—to end the era of "lifetime politicians". He positions himself as a "Trump Republican," echoing a desire to end Illinois' status as a sanctuary state and supporting crackdowns on illegal immigration to save state resources. Heidner proposes the use of vouchers to provide parents and children with more choices in their education if they are dissatisfied with public schools. Heidner is a Barrington Hills real estate developer and the owner of Gold Rush Gaming. His campaign messaging often highlights his "outsider" status and his alignment with the policies of the Republican administration in WashingtonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

General Richard Newton joins Ray Stevens to discuss what's going on with the War in Iran. Will other countries join in with the United States and Israel. General Richard Newton shares insights from his extensive career in the United States Air Force, emphasizing the importance of organizational resilience and the human element in high-stakes environments.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.