Along the Rock, a video podcast produced by The Radar Free Press. We speak with local people regarding nonprofits, upcoming events, awards and news for the areas of Dixon, Rock Falls and Sterling in northwest Illinois.
Listen in the Podli app 🎧
Follow your favourite podcasts, listen offline and in the car with CarPlay and Android Auto, and always pick up where you left off. Free to try.
Sep 29, 2026 · 37:02
On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Ben Sondgeroth, lead regional edtech coordinator for the Learning Technology Center of Illinois, for a…
Sep 28, 2026 · 17:09
On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Lysa Hegland from Junior Achievement of the Heartland to explore how the organization is helping students…
Sep 28, 2026 · 7:15
What should you do when your budget actually leaves you with money left over? On this episode of Cash and Coffee, Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman continue the conversation about…
Sep 24, 2026 · 10:22
Get ready for a day of lumberjacks, fall fun, and family activities at Selmi’s Greenhouse and Family Farm! On this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Stahr talks with Melinda…
Sep 24, 2026 · 14:33
On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long is joined by Dale Hayen and Anna Garcia from Sauk Valley Friends of NRA to talk about the organization’s 32nd annual banquet…
Sep 23, 2026 · 39:16
On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Nick and Brennen Neblung from Bobby’s Crash Foundation to share the story behind the foundation and the…
Sep 23, 2026 · 12:32
Step into a world of castles, costumes, Renaissance-inspired entertainment, and family fun on this episode of Along the Rock! Host Kierstyn Long sits down with Dr. Danny Pierce,…
Sep 22, 2026 · 12:05
On this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Stahr sits down with Nick Pepper from 7:24 Fitness on the Rock and Andrew Jackson from Sinnissippi Centers to talk about the Sauk…
Sep 22, 2026 · 6:23
On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Camryn Johnson, the new director of the Rock Falls Chamber, and Marissa Razo, the Chamber’s program…
Sep 21, 2026 · 17:15
On this episode of Along the Rock , host Nathan Stahr welcomes Ben Lightner from Dixon Stage Left for a look at everything the theater company has coming up this fall and winter.…
Sep 21, 2026 · 8:11
💵 Is cash making a comeback? On this episode of Cash and Coffee , hosts Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman explore the surprising return of cash stuffing , an old-school budgeting…
Sep 18, 2026 · 24:26
Three women. Three generations. One shared mission. On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Tasha Garcia, Nerina Human, and Judy Randall from…
Sep 17, 2026 · 10:29
🌮 Tacos, Wrestling & Fall Fun Are Taking Over Rock Falls! 🤼 On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Melinda Jones from Rock Falls Tourism and Ryan…
Sep 17, 2026 · 30:48
🍎 APPLE SEASON IS HERE IN NORTHWEST ILLINOIS! 🍎 On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long welcomes Bruce J. Black from Illinois Extension for an apple-filled…
Sep 16, 2026 · 13:53
Step into a world of fall, fantasy, costumes, and imagination on this episode of Along the Rock! Host Kierstyn Long sits down with Jake Wallin, Trent Johnson, and Jaclyn Sciacero…
Sep 16, 2026 · 10:38
What did harvest season look like before modern farming technology? On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long talks with Katie Lewis from Bos Brothers Historical…
Sep 15, 2026 · 14:42
Fire safety starts long before an emergency happens. On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long is joined by Becca Mayberry of Hopkins Family Fire Safety, Rock Falls…
Sep 15, 2026 · 22:56
🐴 What if a horse could help a child find confidence, responsibility and hope? On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Tonya Wells , executive…
Sep 14, 2026 · 23:06
Along the Rock: Understanding Rock Falls’ Flock License Plate Reader System How much can Flock license plate reader cameras actually see? Can police track your every move? Who…
Sep 14, 2026 · 8:01
☕ Grab a cup of coffee and join the conversation! On this episode of Cash and Coffee , hosts Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman take a closer look at the hidden costs and…
Sep 10, 2026 · 14:39
Join host Kierstyn Long for this episode of Along the Rock as she sits down with Liz Buchholz and Christine McGinnis of Rawhide Saloon and Shawn Hickey of Speak Out Against…
Sep 10, 2026 · 9:39
For 20 years, PFLAG Sauk Valley has been providing support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals, their families, and allies throughout the Sauk Valley. In this episode…
Sep 9, 2026 · 16:24
On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Heather Waniger and Aimee Howard from Elevate Youth Center to discuss the organization's free after-school…
Sep 9, 2026 · 19:42
🎸 Music can change a life—and Music Gear for Kids is making that happen one instrument at a time. On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Tory…
Sep 8, 2026 · 7:21
Thinking about traveling to Europe? 🌍✈️ On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Brenda Helms , director of community education and alumni…
Sep 8, 2026 · 6:40
💸 What if waiting just 24 hours could save you hundreds of dollars—and a lot of regret? In this episode of Cash and Coffee , hosts Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman discuss the…
Sep 3, 2026 · 8:28
🎣 Along the Rock Podcast | 20th Annual Cops and Bobbers with Detective Brad Dempsey The Dixon Police Department's 20th Annual Cops and Bobbers Fishing Derby is almost here! Host…
Sep 2, 2026 · 8:48
🎩 Magic is coming to the Dixon Theatre! On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Spencer Aurand , Executive Director of the Dixon Theatre, to talk…
Sep 2, 2026 · 24:48
In this episode of Along the Rock , host Nathan Stahr sits down with local historian Tom Wadsworth to explore one of the most heartbreaking stories in Sauk Valley history. In…
Sep 1, 2026 · 13:00
Join host Kierstyn Long as she sits down with Adriana Cervantes, Nora Rodriguez, and Isabella Garcia to preview the 14th Annual Taste of Fiesta in Rock Falls. Learn about the…
Sep 1, 2026 · 16:46
Join host Kierstyn Long on this episode of Along the Rock as she sits down with Julie Bassett , founder of Together for Taft , to discuss the future of the historic Lorado Taft…
Aug 31, 2026 · 12:35
In this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Heather Grobe , Executive Director of the Dixon Family YMCA, and Danny Langloss , Dixon City Manager, to…
Aug 31, 2026 · 6:42
☕ Grab a cup of coffee and join the conversation! Can saving money really be as simple as setting aside one hour of your pay? In this episode of Cash and Coffee , hosts Quinn…
Aug 27, 2026 · 18:23
Substance use disorder affects families, friends, and entire communities. In this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Lauren Metzler , founder of…
Aug 27, 2026 · 36:25
Historic preservation, Flock cameras, data centers, and the future of local government are all on the table in this episode of Along the Rock . Host Nathan Stahr sits down with…
Aug 26, 2026 · 14:58
🌾 Along the Rock | Sauk Valley Grown Returns in 2026 Join host Kierstyn Long as she sits down with Molly Johnson of Illinois Extension to discuss the return of Sauk Valley Grown…
Aug 25, 2026 · 12:18
Can volunteering help pay for college? At Sauk Valley Community College, it can. On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Sarah Partington and…
Aug 24, 2026 · 11:06
Ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes at your local police department? On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Mary Toth of the…
Aug 24, 2026 · 6:53
In this episode: 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, comment, and subscribe for more local stories from the Sauk Valley and beyond. 🎧 Listen to the full podcast and explore more at…
Aug 20, 2026 · 12:48
The Grand Detour Art Festival is celebrating 77 years of bringing artists, families, music, food, history, and community together at the John Deere Historic Site in Grand Detour.…
Aug 20, 2026 · 9:03
Join host Kierstyn Long for another episode of Along the Rock , presented by the Radar Free Press , as she sits down with Rock Falls Tourism Director Melinda Jones to preview the…
Aug 19, 2026 · 7:06
On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Tony Flores to discuss the story behind his Facebook ministry, Faith, Fire, and Passion , and the…
Aug 19, 2026 · 18:00
Watch this inspiring episode of Along the Rock as host Kierstyn Long sits down with internationally acclaimed Australian blues guitarist Michael Charles . Michael shares the…
Aug 18, 2026 · 15:11
Birth to Five Illinois is shaping the future of early childhood education—one community conversation at a time. On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long welcomes…
Aug 17, 2026 · 11:49
In this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Susan and Paul Gould to discuss the mission behind Loaves and Fishes, how the program grew from serving just…
Aug 17, 2026 · 7:56
How many subscriptions are quietly draining your bank account every month? In this episode of Cash and Coffee , hosts Quinn Stahr and Emlyn Zimmerman discuss the hidden cost of…
Aug 13, 2026 · 37:02
What makes a tomato safe to eat—and when should you throw it away? On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long is joined by Bruce J. Black of Illinois Extension to…
Aug 12, 2026 · 12:37
Home nursing can make a life-changing difference for families caring for medically complex loved ones, but many people don't realize these services are available right here in…
Aug 11, 2026 · 5:02
On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Sterling Police Department Officer Shane Bland to discuss the 9:00 P.M. Routine, a simple nightly reminder…
Aug 10, 2026 · 8:15
The 155th Whiteside County Fair is bringing five days of agriculture, entertainment, food, and family fun to Morrison, Illinois! On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn…
Aug 10, 2026 · 6:10
Thinking about buying a home because the mortgage payment is the same as your rent? There may be a lot more to consider. On this episode of Cash & Coffee , Quinn Stahr and Emily…
Aug 6, 2026 · 11:57
Join host Kierstyn Long on this episode of Along the Rock as she sits down with Terry Hicks and Melinda Jones to preview one of the Sauk Valley's biggest summer weekends. Learn…
Aug 5, 2026 · 12:08
On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Curt Jacobs to discuss the upcoming AgroVantage Field Day , a free, hands-on event designed to help farmers…
Aug 4, 2026 · 7:40
Strategic Steps Counseling is helping kids start the school year with confidence. On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Matthew Pearlman , owner…
Aug 3, 2026 · 23:45
On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Jennifer Slaney , director of the Sterling Public Library, to discuss more than $75,000 in grant funding…
Aug 3, 2026 · 8:06
Is a higher salary always the better job offer? Not necessarily. On this episode of Cash and Coffee , hosts Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman discuss why your first job offer…
Jul 30, 2026 · 13:02
Get ready for one of Sterling's favorite summer traditions! On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long welcomes Janna Groharing , executive director of Sterling Main…
Jul 29, 2026 · 12:49
On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Mandy Dallas, Carie Ramirez, and Hele Rowley to discuss the annual Tools for School program. Learn how this…
Jul 28, 2026 · 6:58
Learn how one local family turned tragedy into a mission that's changing lives across the region. On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Megan…
Jul 27, 2026 · 5:57
Should you use a credit card or a debit card? While they may look the same in your wallet, they work very differently—and choosing the right one can have a big impact on your…
Jul 23, 2026 · 16:10
National Night Out is back, and both the Rock Falls and Dixon Police Departments are inviting the community to come out for an evening of family fun, education, and community…
Jul 22, 2026 · 13:30
George Fest is back, and it's bigger than ever! On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Matt Prescott to talk about the second annual George Fest ,…
Jul 21, 2026 · 9:03
🍦 Voted the Sauk Valley's Best Ice Cream! 🍦 On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Jorge Brito , owner of Sundae Funday in downtown Rock Falls,…
Jul 20, 2026 · 23:54
Discover the incredible story of Anderson Taylor , the Guinness World Records' youngest male museum curator , on this episode of Along the Rock ! Host Kierstyn Long sits down…
Jul 20, 2026 · 8:55
Needs vs. Wants: Are You Spending Wisely? | Cash and Coffee How do you tell the difference between a need and a want? It sounds simple, but today's spending habits can make that…
Jul 17, 2026 · 9:40
Discover the inspiring journey of artist Riley Wescott on this episode of Along the Rock ! Host Kierstyn Long sits down with the former Rock Falls resident to discuss how a…
Jul 16, 2026 · 15:56
🎉 Sterling Street Fest Debuts in Downtown Sterling | Along the Rock Podcast Downtown Sterling is getting ready for an exciting new tradition! On this episode of Along the Rock ,…
Jul 16, 2026 · 14:48
🎨 A lifelong dream becomes a lasting tribute. On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with local artist Ozell Taylor , the creator of the stunning new…
Jul 15, 2026 · 11:23
Due to the full name of the YSJ golf tournament discussed in this episode, this video contains mild profanity. Viewer discretion is advised. Two local golf outings are making a…
Jul 15, 2026 · 24:54
Can you really plant a second garden in July? 🌱 Bruce Black from the University of Illinois Extension joins Kierstyn Long on this episode of Along the Rock to explain why…
Jul 14, 2026 · 14:51
Join host Kierstyn Long on this episode of Along the Rock as she talks with Sam Meier of the Optimist Club of Sterling about the organization's mission to support local youth…
Jul 14, 2026 · 8:10
Discover how the next generation of farmers and entrepreneurs is growing right here in the Sauk Valley! On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with…
Jul 13, 2026 · 17:45
Get an inside look at everything that goes into the Lee County 4-H Fair! 🌽🐄🎨 On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Katie Baker , Lee County 4-H…
Jul 13, 2026 · 8:17
How important is your credit score? It could impact everything from buying a home or car to renting an apartment—and even qualifying for certain jobs. In this episode of Cash and…
Jul 10, 2026 · 10:08
Learn how the Whiteside County Property Fraud Alert program can help protect you. On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Whiteside County Recorder…
Jul 9, 2026 · 22:32
Hungry for one of the best burgers in the Sauk Valley? 🍔 On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Stew and Elaine Bruns , owners of Shamrock Pub in…
Jul 9, 2026 · 14:51
How can a box of Girl Scout cookies help families in need? 🍪💙 In this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Melissa Morel of Girl Scout Troop 935, Jill…
Jul 8, 2026 · 22:37
What does the Whiteside County Farm Bureau actually do? It's much more than farming. On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Matt Lillpop , manager…
Jul 7, 2026 · 14:09
Get ready to laugh, cheer, and maybe even spell your way onto the stage! On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long is joined by Ellen Bentley , Jenna Mingus , and…
Jul 7, 2026 · 27:36
Discover why the Yak Yak Sisters have become one of the Sauk Valley's most welcoming outdoor groups! On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long is joined by Karen…
Jul 6, 2026 · 9:47
On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Sterling City Clerk Teri Sathoff to talk about the return of Chalk the Walk , a free family event happening…
Jul 6, 2026 · 6:34
How much money should you have saved for an emergency? On this episode of Cash and Coffee , hosts Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman discuss why an emergency fund is one of the most…
Jul 2, 2026 · 22:11
Join host Kierstyn Long as she sits down with Nancy Varga , director of the Reagan Run, to discuss one of Dixon's favorite Fourth of July traditions. Now celebrating its 26th…
Jul 2, 2026 · 10:11
How does a community help children heal after abuse?In this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Jessica Cash, Executive Director and Forensic Interviewer…
Jul 1, 2026 · 12:52
Get ready for two incredible summer theater productions coming to the Dixon Historic Theatre! On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Ben Lightner…
Jul 1, 2026 · 8:36
Spend your summer along the Rock River with Visit Rock Falls Tourism! 🌞🎶 On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Melinda Jones, Director of Visit…
Jun 30, 2026 · 10:18
Discover how Wellspring Medical Spa in Dixon is redefining wellness in the Sauk Valley. On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Jordanna Devine,…
Jun 30, 2026 · 7:02
📚 Where's Waldo? He's hiding all over Dixon! On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Elsie Gordon from Books on First to discuss the return of Find…
Jun 29, 2026 · 21:33
🚍 What happens when public transportation expands across three counties? On this episode of Along the Rock , host Nathan Stahr sits down with Greg Gates, Marcus Cox, and Amy…
Jun 29, 2026 · 14:02
☕ Multiple Streams of Income | Side Hustles, Investing & Financial Flexibility | Cash and Coffee How many streams of income should you have? On this episode of Cash and Coffee ,…
Jun 25, 2026 · 11:28
🎆 How much does it reallytake to put on the Sterling-Rock Falls fireworks show? On this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Stahr sitsdown with Cael Sanders, President of the…
Jun 25, 2026 · 17:43
What does it mean to become a dementia-friendly community? On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Beth Sterk of CGH and Sami Wiggins of Caster Home…
Jun 24, 2026 · 6:50
Join host Kierstyn Long on this episode of Along the Rock as she welcomes Ellie Hanlon, Marketing and Development Director, and Brenda Gould, CATCH Coordinator with the…
Jun 24, 2026 · 34:10
🐍 Are snakes really slimy? Do they actually try to "size up" their owners? And can reptiles become therapy animals? On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits…
Jun 23, 2026 · 13:33
Join host Kierstyn Long on this episode of Along the Rock as she welcomes Keri Olson, executive director of United Way of Whiteside County, to discuss the 25th anniversary of the…
Jun 22, 2026 · 11:59
Season 3, Episode 114 Join host Emma Watts on this episode of Along the Rock as she sits down with Rob Bates and Leah Nelson from the Dixon Petunia Festival to discuss everything…
Jun 22, 2026 · 12:54
💰 Snowball or Avalanche? Which debt payoff strategy is right for you? In this episode of Cash and Coffee , hosts Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman break down two of the most…
Jun 18, 2026 · 12:54
Join host Kierstyn Long on this episode of Along the Rock as she sits down with director Faith Morrison and student performers Maura Gaumer and Anthony Sagel to discuss the…
Jun 17, 2026 · 24:53
🌱🍅 Build Your Own Indoor Pizza Garden! 🍕🌿 Can you grow pizza ingredients right inside your home? In this episode of Along the Rock , host Emma Watts is joined by horticulture…
Jun 16, 2026 · 16:12
🎭 How did PFLAG begin?What exactly is reader’s theater? And what does the future hold for Dixon Stage Left? On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sitsdown with…
Listen in the Podli app 🎧
Follow your favourite podcasts, listen offline and in the car with CarPlay and Android Auto, and always pick up where you left off. Free to try.
Your podcast? Get the Podli badge for your site
