On the Beat With Jill Urchak of "On A Quest Paranormal"

I recently wrote a blog about podcasts for Global Traveler. For the blog, I had the pleasure of interviewing Chicago media personality Jill Urchak. If you have listened to radio over the past many years, you have heard Jill hosting, contributing, reporting traffic and more. The blog can be found at Podcast Pleasures.

Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, Jill has been on Chicago radio for 20+ years. Jill's personality shone through her traffic reporting and led to larger roles as she interacted with the various show hosts. On the Score, former hosts Doug Buffone and Dan Jiggetts incorporated Jill into their show, as did others including Terry Boers and Dan McNeil. Jill even guest hosted on occasion.

A passionate and knowledgeable White Sox fan, Jill's shows were always interesting and fun. She never hesitated to take a playful (?) jab at the Cubs, but that was part of her charm and all entertaining.

Jill's skills are not limited to radio though. She has also done some television and written a couple books and a few of her poems have been published in other books.

I am a fan of Jill's and wanted to interview her for a while. My story for Global Traveler gave me the perfect opportunity, because Jill has added podcaster to her impressive resume.

"On A Quest Paranormal" is Jill seeking out the unknown, unseen and unproven. Episodes have included talks with folks on close encounters, reiki, animal spirits and other fascinating topics. Jill is "On A Quest" to learn more from those who have fascinating experiences, personal knowledge and interesting thoughts.

In our interview, Jill discusses her interest in the paranormal, seeking knowledge while "being a wimp," her Catholic faith, her first hand experiences and more. Each episode is like a conversation between friends, with Jill making listeners feel like they are on the journey with her, because we are.

I am skeptical, but open-minded about the paranormal. I have learned a lot from "On A Quest Paranormal." I can't say I have become a staunch believer in all things paranormal, but that's not the point. I have become better informed and definitely entertained. Neither Jill nor her guests try to persuade listeners to believe. They simply discuss their experiences and beliefs.

I originally asked Jill for a few minutes of her time, but the interview ran longer and I couldn't be happier and more grateful to Jill for her time and thoughts. Once we started talking, I didn't want it to end.

I really appreciate Jill for her time and cooperation and even more for the "On A Quest Paranormal" podcast. Thank you as always to Global Traveler for the opportunity to write about things I love.

Be sure to go to @OnAQuestPod on twitter. You can find links to the "On A Quest Paranormal" podcast there or look for it on your podcast platform of choice. You can also follow Jill on most forms of social media.

On the Beat With Jill Urchak

Jill Urchak has graced Chicago radio since the mid-1990's.  She has been a host, co-host, news reporter and traffic reporter.  She has also written some poetry and is an avid White Sox fan.
I have heard Urchak for years, but I first really became a fan during her time at WSCR, when the various hosts made her a part of their shows.  I contacted Urchak recently and she answered my questions.

Q-You have done a lot in your career. If you could pick one dream job (in or out of your fields of expertise) what would it be?

JU-That's a tough one. The reason I went into radio was because I love music and wanted to be surrounded by it. My career has encompassed a little of everything and yet, I always go back to music. My dream job in radio would be to have a music show that plays a little of everything. The show would concentrate on music from the 60's, 70's and 80's. I would play old clips from the artists, air audio from each era to accompany each segment. It would be comparable to "TV LAND of RADIO". I'm old school and I think it would bring in a new generation of people. Also, I would bridge the gap between then and now. Music is music and it all ties together eventually! I would LOVE to have my own show.

AND if I wasn't in radio, I would work with children who need role models. I think teaching Kindergarten would be a blast. Kids are like sponges and are ready to learn. Children keep it real!

Q-Which job (or assignment) made you the most nervous?

JU-I literally just tried out for the Channel 2, CBS Traffic gig for the morning show. I've done a little TV, but not like this. I was a nervous wreck. Stepping out in front of the camera with all the blinding lights was very intimidating. I'm used to being in a studio in jeans and a T-shirt with nobody watching me. To have your every move watched takes getting used to. I had fun and was incredibly challenged at the same time. I hope my adrenaline worked for me and not against me. You get one shot and if you blow it, then you blow it. Yikes!

Q-How did it feel when someone asked for your autograph or recognized you for the first time?

JU-I thought it was a joke. I was doing a remote for WSCR and some guy wanted my autograph and I kept on asking him...WHY? Why do you want it? I don't get it? I was very embarrassed and thought it was a joke. It's very sweet and still blows me away(not that it happens often). I was at a Sox game and heard some guy screaming, "Hey Urchak! How's the traffic"? It's flattering and still surprising when it happens.

Q-You are a legendary Sox fan. If you could make your all-time favorite line up, who would you pick?

I don't even know how to answer that question. All I know is that it would include Alexei Ramirez, A.J. Pierzynski, Paul Konerko and Jim Thome (bring him back). I think if you shuffle those guys around in any order then you can't lose.

Q-Are you writing more poetry? Any plans in that direction?

JU-I only write if I feel a really strong emotion. I don't just sit and write something for the heck of it, I have to be inspired. Thank God for my ex-boyfriend. He gave me so much material (lol). It's true. It was a good way blow off steam. Writing poetry makes me feel good. It's an outlet that just comes naturally and it's safe. I'll always write and never stop!

6-What is your favorite vacation spot?

JU-I haven't been to too many places to make a comparison. I can tell you that Las Vegas is the place to be. I'm not a gambler by any means, but Vegas has so much more. In Vegas you can lay out in the sun all day(your tropical experience), play slots in between(your Vegas experience), see a show(Broadway experience), shop and people watch. What other vacation spot offers so much in one location?

It's great to know a bit more about the person behind the voice I have heard for so many years.  To learn even more about Urchak, you can go to Chicago Now and check out In Check With Urchak. I really appreciate Urchak's time and thoughtful answers. Thanks, Jill and if you ever land that dream radio job, count me as a listener!