Craig McFarland

Craig had the chance to speak with Kenzie Anderson and Amanda Glass, co-leaders of Abe's Army about the upcoming training program. Abe's Army helps individuals prepare for Abe's Amble, a 5K or 10K run that will occur August 23 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. Kenzie and Amanda discuss how they became involved in the Springfield Road Runners Club, which put on Abe's Army, and what people can expect when they sign up for the program. More information: https://www.srrc.net/abesarmy

Craig speaks with co-directors Preston Dodd and Roy Lowery about the upcoming performances of Jesus Christ Superstar coming to the Hoogland Center for the Arts May 7-9 and 15-17. This is part of the Springfield Theatre Centre season. "Jesus Christ Superstar, the first musical by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber to be produced for the professional stage. A timeless work, the rock opera is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary and universally known series of events but seen, unusually, through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. Loosely based on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, Superstar follows the last week of Jesus Christ’s life. The story, told entirely through song, explores the personal relationships and struggles between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, his disciples, his followers and the Roman Empire."

Opening Day for the Springfield Lucky Horseshoes is set for May 27, and excitement is building for a landmark season at Robin Roberts Stadium.Craig sits down with team co-owner Melissa Gaynor to preview what fans can expect this summer—from on-field action to an expanded lineup of promotional nights. This season also marks a significant transition, as the stadium begins its first year under the ownership of the Friends of Robin Roberts Stadium, taking over from the Springfield Park District.In addition, Melissa shares insight into preparations for the inaugural season of the Women's Professional Baseball League, which will play all of its games in Springfield beginning in August—adding another exciting chapter to the city’s baseball legacy.

A day we've long awaited has arrived! Ted Lasso season four will premier August 5th on Apple TV. Jeremy and Craig break down the teaser trailer released by Apple as well as begin their speculation as to what we might be in for as we return to Richmond."In season four, Ted returns to Richmond, taking on his biggest challenge yet: coaching a second division women’s football team. Throughout the course of the season, Ted and the team learn to leap before they look, taking chances they never thought they would."

Peanut Butter & Biscuits brings you a special one-on-one interview as Craig sits down with Emily Pendergast, who stars as Amy in Jury Duty: Company Retreat.Emily talks about her journey through comedy, including her time performing with the legendary The Groundlings, and how that background helped shape her performance style and prepare her for the unique world of Jury Duty. She shares her love of comedy, what draws her to character-driven humor, and how improvisation continues to influence her work on screen.The conversation also highlights her past roles, including playing Beth Ryan on Veep, and how those experiences have helped her grow as a performer. It’s a fun, insightful chat that will surely connect with fans of Ted Lasso and Shrinking.

Laura Mitchelle discusses the 2026 the Illinois History Day contest. Students, 11-18, interact with history in various formats - April 27 and May 4, 2026.

Peanut Butter & Biscuits welcomes a very special guest this week—Brendan Hunt. That's right, Coach Beard from Ted Lasso himself!A proud Chicago native, Brendan joins Craig and Jeremy to talk about bringing his one-man show, The Movement You Need, to Steppenwolf Theatre Company from April 19 through May 10. The show is a deeply personal, music-infused story that blends memoir, humor, and reflection—exploring Brendan’s journey growing up in Illinois and the moments that shaped him, all underscored by the enduring influence of The Beatles.Craig and Jeremy dive into Brendan’s roots in the Midwest, how his early experiences connect directly to the themes of the show, and why The Movement You Need is such a meaningful project at this stage of his career. It’s a conversation full of heart, humor, and insight—offering fans a new perspective on the man behind Beard.

Craig speaks with several members of the cast and creative team about their experiences bringing 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee to the stage. Shelby Bayless, co-director, speaks about her connection to the show and her time in the classroom as a teacher. Hannah Cobb and Julia Rolens speak to their characters and how the show presents challenges universal to all kids. Come relive a bit of your elementary school spelling bee with the cast April 17-19 and 24-26 at the Hoogland Center for the Arts.

Peanut Butter & Biscuits goes beyond the recap this week with a special interview featuring Ted McGinley, the man behind everyone’s favorite laid-back legend, Derek, from Shrinking.Craig and Jeremy sit down with Ted to talk all things Season 3, including a deep dive into his standout episode “Dereks Don’t Die” and how Derek continues to quietly (and hilariously) steal the show. Ted reflects on the heart, humor, and unexpected depth that make the series so special—plus what it’s like being part of such a beloved ensemble.The conversation also takes a turn through Ted’s incredible career, with stories from decades in the industry—including a wild, can’t-miss tale about getting kicked off the USC water polo team for earning money as a model… and why that leftover year of eligibility might just be the perfect setup for reality TV gold.It’s funny, insightful, and full of behind-the-scenes gems you won’t hear anywhere else. All this and MUCH MORE. Be part of the PB&B Journey! Join us!

Craig speaks with Mickey Tate, founder of the Midwest Toy & Comic Fest about the upcoming shows in Decatur and Springfield. The Decatur show happens this weekend, April 11-12, at the Decatur Civic Center. Springfield will be held April 18-19 at the Orr Building at the Illinois State Fair Grounds. Both shows will be $10 per person, kids 12 and under get in free. Mickey speaks with Craig about some of the celebrities coming to the shows, and what people can expect when they come out.https://www.midwesttoycomicfest.com