Off The Beaten Podcast
Claim This Podcastby Dion McGill
Podcast Overview
<p>Hosted by Chicago native and Army veteran <strong>Dion McGill</strong>, 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.</p>
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
9/3/2019
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Recent Episodes
November 11, 2025
Veterans Day 2025
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 importance of solidarity, invoking the words of Fred Hampton. The episode closes with McGill’s reading of the St. Crispin’s Day speech, a moving tribute to camaraderie, sacrifice, and the unseen journeys of those who serve. 00:00 Introduction and Veterans Day Reflection 01:48 The Decision to Record an Episode 02:43 Revisiting Military Service Stories 07:14 Joining the Army: The Early Days 11:40 Deployment and Training Challenges 18:01 Life in Afghanistan 22:36 Memories of PRT Sharona and Bo Bergdahl 23:25 Dealing with Injury and Taking Responsibility 24:26 Life on the Base with Afghan Soldiers 25:49 Cultural Exchange and Learning 28:16 Reflections on Shared Humanity 34:00 Fred Hampton's Legacy and Modern Reflections 42:36 Veterans Day Reflections and St. Crispin's Day Speech 48:53 Outro and Final Thoughts Thank you for listening. This was so fast, I didn't worry about all the social media stuff, but I will get back to that soon!
August 19, 2022
#75 - Talking Poetry and Life w/ Ydalmi Noriega
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: Hispanic Executive: Ydalmi Noriega Is Redefining What Poetry Looks Like in America Block Club Chicago: Words of Wonder Literary Festival Bringing ‘The Best’ Creatives To The South Side Saturday Signup for the newsletter here: Off The Beaten Podcast Newsletter Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any upcoming episodes. Also, please take a moment to rate and review OTBP on your favorite podcast app. Follow OTBP on Social Media: Instagram / Facebook / TikTok / Website / Podchaser I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Got something to say? Give us a call and leave a voicemail: (708)465-1590 Email us: beingsillyinthecity@gmail.com Also don't be afraid to slide into my DM's on any of the social media platforms. You can also support the podcast by Buying Me a Cup of Coffee. Every dollar donated goes into helping me make the podcast better. buymeacoffee.com/OffTheBeatenPodcast
July 2, 2022
#74 - Reflecting on Pride Month
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 Out Following Deaths of Two Chicago-Area Black Trans Women State Representative Kelly Cassidy Aurora Pride Parade 2022 Draws Hundreds After Almost Cancelled Over Revoked Permit Controversy History.com: The Stonewall Riots History.com: How The Mob Helped Establish NYC's Gay Bar Scene Full Moon Over The Stonewall: Howard Smith's Account of the Stonewall Riots City Cast Chicago: Remembering Mama Gloria
76 total episodes available
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is Off The Beaten Podcast?
<p>Hosted by Chicago native and Army veteran <strong>Dion McGill</strong>, 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.</p> - How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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