© 2026 NPR Illinois
For your right to be curious.
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Join the NPR Illinois team!

Community Voices is seeking a co-host/editor to join Jeff Williams and Randy Eccles in getting to know our neighbors and more. Apply by May 25, 5 p.m.

The news department is seeking part-time fill-in anchor/reporters who are available either weekdays from 5:30 to 9 a.m. and/or 3:30 to 6 p.m. Apply by June 5, 5 p.m.

Gracie Barra instructors explain how jiu-jitsu can improve character in addition to athletic ability | Community Voices

Gracie Barra is located at 1665 Wabash Ave Suite G in Springfield, Ill.
Picture courtesy of Gracie Barra Springfield
Gracie Barra is located at 1665 Wabash Ave Suite G in Springfield, Ill.

Instructors Peter Curtis and Steffen Smith sat down with Logan Bricker from Community Voices to discuss the wide world of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, its history, health benefits, and how you can train to excel in not only the dojo but whatever you put your mind to.

Logan Bricker is a student at the University of Illinois Springfield studying journalism. He also assists the Community Voices team at NPR Illinois.