Hosted by Chicago native and Army veteran Dion McGill , Off The Beaten Podcast uncovers the coolest stories and people you didn’t know you needed. From artists and activists to everyday folks doing extraordinary things, Dion dives deep into real conversations that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Thoughtful, funny, and unfiltered—this isn’t your average interview show. It’s a journey off the beaten path.
Subscribe:.rss.atom.json.md.m3u.pls
Live Last read · last published · next check
Saves to your Listen queue, to pick up on another day or another device.
In this heartfelt solo episode of Off The Beaten Podcast, host Dion McGill reflects on his military service in Afghanistan in honor of Veterans Day. He shares personal stories about his early reluctance to embrace the veteran identity, the bonds he built with Afghan soldiers, and the lessons he learned about shared humanity. McGill also explores the dangers of xenophobia and the enduring…
Hello Friends! For this episode I had the opportunity to sit down with Ydalmi Noriega. Ydalmi is a Chicago transplant, as well as the Vice President of Programs and Engagement for the Poetry Foundation. After recently being labeled as a person who is redefining what poetry looks like, I had to sit down and pick her brain about her journey, and about the wide world of poetry. Enjoy! Resources:…
Hello Friends! While sitting and reflecting, it dawned on me I hadn't ever done an episode about Pride Month, which is a pretty big deal here in Chicago, so I took some time to reflect on some memories that tightly correlate in my head with the LGBTQIA+ community. It's story time!!! Resources: Fatal Violence Against The Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Community in 2022 LGBTQ Community Speaks…
Every time another school shooting or mass shooting happens, I am approached by people asking, "What can I do? What can we do?" So I wanted to take a moment to offer some actionable steps you can take in the face of this tragedy. State: UPDATE: Governor Pritzker has signed HB 4729 , which will fund a statewide public awareness campaign to promote safe firearm storage. It's effective date is…
Saying "Happy Memorial Day" always feels weird to me. However, allow me to offer my sincerest gratitude to all those who have loved ones you are remembering today. I offer my thoughts on Memorial Day, and some of my favorite poetry that commemorates this day. Resources: In Flanders Fields by John McCrae The St. Crispin's Day Speech from Henry V Military Times - Honor The Fallen: SGT Joshua Harris…
Hello Friends! Recently, following an evening of violence that left one youth dead, Mayor Lori Lightfoot instituted a ban on youth at Millennium Park after 6pm Thursday - Sunday. She also moved the citywide curfew for youth from 11pm to 10pm. I had to offer my thoughts. Resources: Lightfoot sets earlier citywide weekend curfew 16-year-old boy shot dead in Millennium Park had big plans for his…
Hello Friends! This episode I indulge in my sweet tooth while visiting with Leah Tibbs, owner of Cookies and Conversations, a small black female owned business I became a fan of during the pandemic. Cookies and Conversations brings people together in conversations while baking and indulging in super yummy cookies! This episode was recorded in the kitchen of Cookies and Conversations, which was…
Hello Friends! Finally Off The Beaten Podcast has come back! It was a long cold winter, but we've come out of hibernation and kicking off Season 4 by bringing you up to speed on one of the more significant adventures I've had since I last posted. This episode I talk a little bit about my fellowship in the University of Chicago Civic Leadership Academy, and more specifically, our global practicum…
Hello Friends! I've been sitting on this episode forever, and I'm so excited to get this episode out, and what more perfect time, when people will be getting flowers and wreaths to decorate their homes for the holidays, as well as honey to sweeten your various holiday teas. This episode I had the pleasure of chatting with Cade Kamaleson, program officer of Chicago Eco House, a local flower farm…
Hello Friends! So yesterday I had the privilege and pleasure of visiting the USA CBD Expo as a member of the press. It was a day without the general public to dive in and check out everything, and get a chance to talk to the people behind some of the newest, freshest and most innovative CBD companies and brands around. I had an amazing time, and can't encourage you enough to go check out the expo…
