Skip to main content
Roker Radio

Roker Radio

By Ken Smith

The Official Home of Roker Radio with Chicago's very own Al Roker, Jr.
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

Roker Radio 159 Pop-Up: Degenerates Assemble SBLV!

Roker RadioFeb 05, 2021

00:00
01:06:12
Roker Radio National Restaurant Convention 2023

Roker Radio National Restaurant Convention 2023

Back again at the restaurant convention for 2023. Yes there's celebrity chefs, yes there's the latest in food trends, yes there's the latest gadgets coming to a kitchen near you. But a fully robotic kitchen? It's not some futuristic Jetsons type dream, it's already here, and you'll hear about it straight from the inventors mouth on this edition of Roker Radio.

Jun 05, 202353:52
Roker Radio 164 The Great American Lobster Fest 2022!

Roker Radio 164 The Great American Lobster Fest 2022!

On this edition of Roker Radio we talk about one of the last hurrah's of Summer, The Great American Lobster Fest at Navy Pier, Labor Day Weekend. Hear all about the food and fun, and how you can WIN a pair of Lobster Meal Experiences courtesy of Green Curtain Events! 

Aug 23, 202240:46
Roker Radio 163 Roker Meets Roker!

Roker Radio 163 Roker Meets Roker!

On this very special edition of Roker Radio, Roker meets Roker! The good people at the Today Show have me come in studio in New York so the real Al Roker can meet his name twin. But he doesn't know I'm coming, it's a surprise! This one was a lot of fun so enjoy!

Aug 10, 202218:41
Roker Radio 162 Windy City Smokeout 2022!

Roker Radio 162 Windy City Smokeout 2022!

Back at the Windy City Smokeout getting my grub on and talking with some of the best pitmasters in the country, and getting a few tips to help us all with our backyard grilling! Early bird 4 day passes are on sale already for the 10th anniversary Smokeout July 13-16 2023 f/The Zac Brown Band!
Aug 06, 202237:38
Roker Radio w/James Beard Award Winning Chef Erick Williams!

Roker Radio w/James Beard Award Winning Chef Erick Williams!

On this edition of Roker Radio I go back into the archives for my interview with newly crowned James Beard Award winning Chef for Best Chef Great Lakes Region 2022, Erick Williams of Virtue Restaurant in Hyde Park Chicago. Get your reservations now!

Jun 14, 202230:18
Roker Radio Redux 9/11 Tribute Show

Roker Radio Redux 9/11 Tribute Show

On this edition of Roker Radio I've gone into the archives to find the Roker Radio Episode from September 2011. So lets revisit the Roker Radio show from the 10th Anniversary of 9/11 on this 20th anniversary of 9/11. It includes rare audio of us on the air 9/11/01 broadcasting as the whole thing unfolded.

Sep 07, 202143:57
Roker Radio 161 Blues Traveler's John Popper!

Roker Radio 161 Blues Traveler's John Popper!

On this edition of Roker Radio I'm joined by none other than John Popper from Blues Traveler! We'll talk about their new album "Traveler's Blues," their new tour, his broken bones, musical influences, what almost got him kicked off Saturday Night Live, and much, much more! Hear their next single "Sittin' on the Top of the World!" Plus find out how you can win tickets to their show in Island Lake, Il.  August 21st! 

Aug 13, 202101:14:32
Roker Radio 160 WIndy City Smokeout Rib Tips!

Roker Radio 160 WIndy City Smokeout Rib Tips!

On this edition of Roker Radio I'm back at the Windy City Smokeout getting "Rib Tips" from some of the most celebrated pitmasters in the country, all to help you with your grilling at home. Texas BBQ tips, St. Louis BBQ tips, even Illinois BBQ tips from 3x Grand World Champions at Memphis in May 17th Street BBQ. Enjoy, subscribe, and pass it on!

Jul 20, 202120:59
Roker Radio Redux: Windy City Smokeout!

Roker Radio Redux: Windy City Smokeout!

On this edition of Roker Radio we're at the Windy City Smokeout talking everything BBQ with Myron Mixon,  The Salt Lick from Austin, Peg Leg Porker from Nashville, Fox Bros. from Atlanta and more! Find out how you can WIN a pair of tickets to the 2021 Windy City Smokeout in the first 10 minutes!

Jun 29, 202145:12
Roker Radio Redux Dr. BBQ!

Roker Radio Redux Dr. BBQ!

Now that it's grillin' season I thought I'd revisit one of my favorite Roker Radio episodes as my old co-host Tyler Cox and I talk with Dr. BBQ! He gives us his tips for all of your Summer grilling, plus his foolproof secret for fall of the bone ribs! I've tried it many times, and it's the bomb! So get ready for a masterclass on grilling, it'll be your go-to!  And if you're ever in the Tampa/St. Pete area, make sure you stop by Dr. BBQ The Restaurant! 

May 27, 202133:03
Roker Radio 159 Pop-Up: Degenerates Assemble SBLV!

Roker Radio 159 Pop-Up: Degenerates Assemble SBLV!

On this edition of Roker Radio it's our final Roker Radio Pop-Up: Degenerates Assemble SBLV! I'm joined once again by fellow degenerates Dan-o and host of Gutting The Sacred Cow,  comedian Kevin Gootee. We're highlighting our favorite prop bets for the big game and giving you our picks for the matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. We did the homework so you don't have to!  So relax, we've got you covered! Enjoy, Stay Safe!

Feb 05, 202101:06:12
Roker Radio 158 Pop Up: Degenerates Assemble For Dummies!

Roker Radio 158 Pop Up: Degenerates Assemble For Dummies!

On this edition of Roker Radio it's another Roker Radio Pop-Up: Degenerates Assemble For Dummies! Are you the one who always misses out on the office squares for the Big Game because you just don't know what they are? Then this this Roker Radio is for you! We break down office pool squares, those strip cards at the bar, and those crazy big game prop bets., so you'll have plenty of time to get some skin in the game! Enjoy, Stay Safe!
Jan 30, 202143:27
Roker Radio 157 Pop Up: Degenerates Assemble Week 3!

Roker Radio 157 Pop Up: Degenerates Assemble Week 3!

On this edition of Roker Radio it's another Roker Radio Pop-Up: Degenerates Assemble week 3! For the NFC and AFC Championship games I'm joined once again by fellow degenerates Dan-o and host of Gutting The Sacred Cow,  comedian Kevin Gootee. We'll break down both the Tampa Bay-Green Bay and the Buffalo-Kansas City games to help you decide who to bet on and win some money! Enjoy, Stay Safe!

Jan 22, 202145:10
Roker Radio 156 Pop Up: Degenerates Assemble Week 2!

Roker Radio 156 Pop Up: Degenerates Assemble Week 2!

On this edition of Roker Radio it's a Roker Radio Pop-Up: Degenerates Assemble! For the divisional round of the NFL playoffs I'm joined once again by fellow degenerates Dan-o and host of Gutting The Sacred Cow, comedian Kevin Gootee . We'll break down all of the NFL playoff games to help you decide who to bet on and win some money! Enjoy, Stay Safe!
Jan 15, 202154:28
Roker Radio Pop Up: Degenerates Assemble Week 1!

Roker Radio Pop Up: Degenerates Assemble Week 1!

On this edition of Roker Radio it's a Roker Radio Pop Up-Degenerates Assemble! Throughout the NFL playoffs I'll be joined by fellow degenerates Dan-O and host of Gutting the Sacred Cow Kevin Gootee. We'll break down all of the NFL playoff games and hopefully make some money along the way as well. Enjoy, stay safe!

Jan 08, 202101:15:11
Roker Radio 154 Good Riddance 2020!

Roker Radio 154 Good Riddance 2020!

On this episode of Roker Radio we say goodbye to 2020, look at some of the good things from the year, and see if any of our predictions from the 1st show of the year came true. Merry Christmas! Happy New Year! Stay Safe!

Dec 24, 202001:03:15
Roker Radio Redux: Kim Goldman!

Roker Radio Redux: Kim Goldman!

On this edition of Roker Radio we go back to 2014 to an interview I did with Kim Goldman. Kim just tweeted about the 12th anniversary of O.J.'s conviction which reminded me of this interview. Let's check it out together! Happy Holidays and stay safe!

Dec 08, 202026:58
Roker Radio 153 Julien's Auctions Icons & Idols!

Roker Radio 153 Julien's Auctions Icons & Idols!

On this edition of Roker Radio, just in time for gift giving, I'm speaking with Julien's Auctions about their Icons & Idols auction. Not only do they have featured items from Eddie Van Halen, Sean Connery, Michael Jordan and more. There are many affordable pieces up for auction that you can buy for yourself or as a gift. Plus we'll talk about how you can bid on an item right now, or auction off something of your own. Stay safe!

Nov 24, 202044:13
Roker Radio 151 Piff The Magic Dragon: Too Soon!

Roker Radio 151 Piff The Magic Dragon: Too Soon!

On This edition of Roker Radio I speak with our old friend Piff The Magic Dragon as he becomes the first show in Las Vegas to reopen. He'll talk about the worst show of his life, Winning the Tournament of Laughs, Getting burned alive, how long it takes to perfect a trick, Vegas reopening, he'll teach us a magic trick we can do at home, and much much more. Enjoy, stay safe!
Nov 10, 202038:54
Roker Radio 152 Kevin Smith!

Roker Radio 152 Kevin Smith!

On this edition of Roker Radio I'm joined by Director, Writer, Actor Kevin Smith. We'll learn about his one week only Moobys pop up restaurant in Chicago, as well as a one night only Drive-in version of his Jay and Silent Bob Get Old Podcast. Kevin also talks about the heart attack that nearly killed him, Jason Mewes getting sober, going vegan and how to ease your way into it, the covid silver lining for movie makers, his strain of weed, if there will be a new Mallrats movie, and much much more! Enjoy and stay safe!

Oct 28, 202049:13
Roker Radio 149 Tom Dreesen Still Standing! (Pt. 1&2)

Roker Radio 149 Tom Dreesen Still Standing! (Pt. 1&2)

On this edition of Roker Radio I talk to comedy legend Tom Dreesen about his new book Still Standing...: My Journey from Streets and Saloons to the Stage, and Sinatra. With humor and humility Tom talks about his battle with Covid-19, his tough upbringing, his advice to young black men who are growing up the same way he did, comedy without a crowd, his first Tonight Show appearance, drinking all night with Frank Sinatra, and if you need a little motivation, he provides that too. Plus much, much more! Enjoy, stay safe!

Oct 20, 202001:28:24
Roker Radio 150 Tom Dreesen Still Standing Pt. 2!

Roker Radio 150 Tom Dreesen Still Standing Pt. 2!

On this edition of Roker Radio part two of my interview with comedy legend Tom Dreesen as he talks about his new book Still Standing...: My Journey from Streets and Saloons to the Stage, and Sinatra. Tom talks about the future of comedy without a crowd, his first Tonight Show appearance, drinking all night with Frank Sinatra, and his special relationship with one of the hottest stars in Hollywood that may surprise you. Plus much, much more! Enjoy, stay safe!

Oct 13, 202054:28
Roker Radio 149 Tom Dreesen Still Standing Pt. 1!

Roker Radio 149 Tom Dreesen Still Standing Pt. 1!

On this edition of Roker Radio part one of my interview with comedy legend Tom Dreesen as he talks about his new book Still Standing...: My Journey from Streets and Saloons to the Stage, and Sinatra. With humor and humility Tom talks about his battle with Covid-19, his tough upbringing, his advice to young black men who are growing up the same way he did, and much, much more.

Sep 29, 202037:16
Roker Radio 148 Skin: A History of Nudity in the Movies!

Roker Radio 148 Skin: A History of Nudity in the Movies!

On this episode of Roker Radio we talk to Mr. Skin Jim McBride, Executive Producer of the new film, Skin: A History of Nudity in the Movies! We talk about his popular website, the greatest nude scene of all time, and (Spoiler Alert!) A History of Nudity in the Movies!

Sep 15, 202046:28
Roker Radio 147 Steve Trevino: Till Death!

Roker Radio 147 Steve Trevino: Till Death!

On this edition of Roker Radio we're joined by comedian Steve Trevino. He talks about how his Father handles a hurricane, doing a comedy show in the age of Covid, and his hilarious Amazon Prime comedy special Steve Trevino: Til Death! But first I have to put in my two cents about everything that happened in Kenosha. Be Safe!

Sep 01, 202001:16:38
Roker Radio Redux Ice Cube!

Roker Radio Redux Ice Cube!

On this Roker Radio Redux from 2018 it’s the one and only Ice Cube. We talk Straight Outta Compton, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, BIG3 Basketball, CBD’s, and has anything changed regarding police violence against Blacks  since when he first rapped about it 30+ years ago. Enjoy!

Jul 01, 202024:53
Roker Radio Redux Darryl Strawberry and Danny Glover

Roker Radio Redux Darryl Strawberry and Danny Glover

On this edition of Roker Radio we go back to the Summer of 2018. Hear my interview with Baseball legend Darryl Strawberry as he talks candidly about his past drug addiction. I also talk with actor, humanitarian, and philanthropist Danny Glover. Hear the one thing he wants all of you you to know, it's as timely now as ever. Stay Safe, Peace. 

Jun 10, 202032:48
Roker Radio 146 Phase Three!

Roker Radio 146 Phase Three!

On this edition of Roker Radio we talk about all the things big and small that we'll need to do in order to reopen. Are we moving too fast or too slow. What are some of the challenges, the pitfalls, plus some unexpected problems that you may not have thought about. 

May 26, 202001:06:20
Roker Radio 145 The Last Dance!

Roker Radio 145 The Last Dance!

On this edition of Roker Radio I'm joined by Jason Hehir, the Director of the hottest show on TV and the hottest thing in sports, The Last Dance. It's the epic ten part documentary about the final championship run of the 90's Bulls. Jason talks about the origin of the original footage, what it took to get this on air ahead of schedule thanks to the pandemic, the players animosity tword Jerry Krause and the Pistons, and much, much more. Plus a preview of what's ahead. He says it may "melt the internet!"

May 05, 202026:50
Roker Radio 144 Stay Home Save Lives!

Roker Radio 144 Stay Home Save Lives!

On this edition of Roker Radio we talk about how people are dealing with this pandemic. The anxiety, the ironies, what was important a month ago that isn't now, and how this all relates to the movie Jaws!

Apr 21, 202032:24
Roker Radio 143 Covid 19 Town Hall!

Roker Radio 143 Covid 19 Town Hall!

On this edition of Roker Radio I share some of a Covid 19 Town Hall that I was a part of. We'll hear from Sen. Dick Durbin, Endocrinologist Dr. Emily Landon from  University of Chicago Medicine,  Congresswoman Robin Kelly, 4th Ward Alderwoman Sofia King,  and Ibie Hart from the Illinois Dept. of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. We'll learn FACTS about the virus, what to do while shopping, what the stimulus bill means for you, unemployment insurance, small business loans, and more! Plus we'll get an inspirational message from comedian Tom Dreesen. #FlattenTheCurve #StaySafe #StayHome #SaveLives

Apr 03, 202058:08
Roker Radio 142 Greengate Chicago Part II!

Roker Radio 142 Greengate Chicago Part II!

On this special edition of Roker Radio we're once again broadcasting from a medical marijuana dispensary. Greengate Chicago, we talk to Budtender Chris, he know all the science. We'll find out about the difference between THC and CBD's, Indica, Sativa, and Hybrids. What strains work best for certain ailments, and wait til you hear  about their selection of edibles, it's not the brownie you remember from High School......I mean College!  

Feb 25, 202057:49
Roker Radio 141 Greengate Chicago!

Roker Radio 141 Greengate Chicago!

On this special edition of Roker Radio we're doing something that's never been done before and that's broadcasting from a medical marijuana dispensary. Greengate Chicago, we talk to CEO and Founder Bob Kingsley about the difference between medical and recreational marijuana, who can buy, how to get a medical marijuana card, how you buy, and much much more. This show should answer your burning questions about purchasing legal weed.

Feb 04, 202049:29
Roker Radio 140 Super Bowl 54 Predictions!

Roker Radio 140 Super Bowl 54 Predictions!

On this edition of Roker Radio I'm joined by Kevin Gootee from Fantasy Football Jibber Jabber. We talk about the Baseball cheating scandal, where Tom Brady plays next, and don't bet on this years big game until you hear our predictions, plus a couple of prop bets that should be real money makers!

Jan 21, 202058:13
Roker Radio 139 First Show of 2020!

Roker Radio 139 First Show of 2020!

On this edition of Roker Radio it’s the first Roker Radio of 2020. We talk about New Year’s in Jamaica, New Year’s rituals, then I pull up my crystal ball to look into the future of politics, Sports, and how 2020 is shaping up to be a great year for music. Thanks for joining us again. Happy New Year!

Jan 07, 202001:11:29
Roker Radio 138 Final Show of 2019!

Roker Radio 138 Final Show of 2019!

On this edition of Roker Radio we're coming to you from The Shamrock Club, reminiscing about not just 2019, but the last 10 years. How would you rate your decade? Thanks to everyone for all of your support! Merry Christmas! Happy New Year! See you in 2020!

Dec 24, 201901:08:08
Roker Radio 136 Voodoo Fest 2019!

Roker Radio 136 Voodoo Fest 2019!

On this edition of Roker Radio we’re coming to you from the Voodoo Music Fest in New Orleans. We’ll talk all about the festival, the weather, and all the great food. Plus a few mishaps!

Dec 02, 201943:02
Roker Radio 135 Vaping and Chappelle Controversies!

Roker Radio 135 Vaping and Chappelle Controversies!

On this edition of Roker Radio I'm coming to you again from Riot Fest as we discuss the latest vaping controversy, why so many vaping deaths? I'll ask people here who vape what they think the problem is. And Dave Chappelle is in hot water over his latest Netflix special, what's all the uproar about?

Nov 14, 201938:32
Roker Radio Riot Fest 2019

Roker Radio Riot Fest 2019

On this edition of Roker Radio I’m coming to you from Riot Fest 2019 as we discuss Riot Fest bands past and present. What bands would you like to see perform an album from start to finish. And what Riot Fest artists hit, ended up being my wedding song!
Oct 09, 201946:32
Roker Radio 133 The Book!

Roker Radio 133 The Book!

<br />On this Edition of Roker Radio Legalized Sports Betting is Here! Well, pretty damn close. We're at the Grand Opening of The Book at the Horseshoe Hammond. You'll hear the ribbon cutting ceremony (You can FF through that if you want to) and I'll be talking with Hammond's Mayor, and the Director of Entertainment from the Horseshoe about legal sports betting finally coming to the Chicago area!
Sep 11, 201923:56
Roker Radio 132 Millennials, Motorized Scooters, and The Masked Singer!

Roker Radio 132 Millennials, Motorized Scooters, and The Masked Singer!

<br />On this edition of Roker Radio we talk about the upcoming Bears season, <br />Millennials are they the problem or am I the problem, Motorized Scooters, The Masked Singer and More!
Aug 28, 201957:54
Roker Radio 131 Lobsterfest 2019!

Roker Radio 131 Lobsterfest 2019!

<br />On this edition of Roker Radio I talk about my attempt to learn how to ride a bike. Then we preview the Great American Lobsterfest at Navy Pier as the Summer of 2019 continues!
Aug 13, 201952:35
Roker Radio 130 Windy City Smokeout!

Roker Radio 130 Windy City Smokeout!

<br />On this edition of Roker Radio we're at the Windy City Smokeout talking everything BBQ with Myron Mixon, The Salt Lick from Austin, Peg Leg Porker from Nashville, Fox Bros. from Atlanta and more!
Jul 31, 201935:53
Roker Radio 129 Sweets and Snacks Expo!

Roker Radio 129 Sweets and Snacks Expo!

<br />On this edition of Roker Radio I take a trip to the Candy Convention where I discover all the hot new candies for 2019, literally! Would you eat the world's hottest Gummi Bear or a Jelly Belly that tasted like barf! Also I'll chat with Rapper/Poet Mykele Deville who has a huge show coming up at Thalia Hall, as the Summer of 2019 continues.<br /><br />
Jul 16, 201940:19
Roker Radio 128 Summer Concert Preview!

Roker Radio 128 Summer Concert Preview!

<br />On this edition of Roker Radio it's all about Summer. We talk about all the big concerts and festivals coming to town including Lollapalooza, Riot Fest, and The Green City Market Chef BBQ!
Jul 02, 201954:13
Roker Radio 127 Fathers Day at SABA!

Roker Radio 127 Fathers Day at SABA!

<br />On this Fathers Day Edition of Roker Radio we're coming to you from SABA Italian Bar + Kitchen with a question, do you think your Father is proud of you? Also, we talk about the worst whoopin' we ever got, updates on sports gambling, a Chicago casino, bad ride shares and more!
Jun 18, 201901:00:43
Roker Radio 126 NRA Convention!

Roker Radio 126 NRA Convention!

<br />On this edition of Roker Radio I'm coming to you from the 2019 NRA Convention (That's the National Restaurant Association). I'm joined by three James Beard Award Winning Chefs Paul Kahan, Abe Conlon, and Andrew Zimmern. Plus I try and start a hot dog war between Chicago and New York, try edible cookie dough, and could tipping become a thing of the past?
Jun 04, 201952:12
Roker Radio 125 Legalized Sports Betting!

Roker Radio 125 Legalized Sports Betting!

<br />On this edition of Roker Radio we discuss legalized Sports Betting, it's most likely coming, are you ready? Also, there could be a serial killer walking the streets of Chicago! Now do I have your attention?
May 21, 201901:23:47
Roker Radio 124 Momma’s Boy!

Roker Radio 124 Momma’s Boy!

<br />On this edition Mothers Day edition of Roker Radio we talk about stupid people doing stupid things. Should we feel sorry for this people or is it Survival of the Fittest. Also take the test, are you a Momma's Boy?
May 07, 201901:04:34
Roker Radio 123 Signal The Launch!

Roker Radio 123 Signal The Launch!

<br />On this edition of Roker Radio we’re coming to you once again from Sheffield’s Wine and Beer Garden. I'm joined by my boys Signal The Launch, their new EP is called Dance Like a Vampire. We'll hear a couple of tracks from them. We'll also discuss our favorite porn stars, and the best advise our Fathers ever gave us.
Apr 23, 201950:20