To learn more about the Rockford area, the middle school class at Spectrum Progressive School of Rockford started their own podcast.

One of my favorite things about my job is to go to schools in our community and help out. I'm a big supporter of volunteering. Many times, I go to talk to students about my career. Sometimes, I get to help out with a class project.

This past fall, my nephew approached me about assisting him and his classmates with something special. They wanted to start their own podcast. I thought that was a great idea, so I was all in.

I join them weekly to work on it. The kids decided they wanted to learn more about Rockford by interviewing different people who have an effect on the community.

The name of their show is "Z Noodles," because they are "Generation Z" and they all like noodles. The original plan was to feature a different noodle each episode. Unfortunately, they figured out it would be difficult, so they decided to use snacks instead.

Since you probably have a little extra time on your hands, I thought you might want to check it out. Here's a couple to watch.