WBBM In Depth: Recent Episodes
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A podcast expanding on the day’s biggest story. We’ll talk to the reporters at the heart of the stories to gain a deeper understanding of the issues that matter to Chicagoans.
On this Independence Day weekend, we’re taking a look back at the tragic July 4 mass shooting that claimed seven lives and injured nearly 50 others at suburban Chicago parade in 2022. An eight-year-old boy injured in the mass shooting remains partially paralyzed. How have that mass shooting, and the numerous violent events that have made headlines over the past decades, changed the way we celebrate? As our nation celebrates our 250th anniversary, are we finding it harder to trust each other? Featuring audio from WBBM Newsradio in Chicago, KYW Newsradio in Philadelphia, WCCO News Talk in the Twin Cities, KNX News in Los Angeles, the Marc Cox Morning Show out of 97.1 the Talk in St. Louis and KCBS Radio in San Francisco.
On this episode, we’re going to dive into some of what goes into bringing criminals to justice, and what happens when that process goes wrong with an interview with reporter Steve Neavling about a scandal regarding coerced suspect statements in Michigan. We'll also get updates on the White House correspondent's dinner incident, the Nick Reiner trial, the D4vd trial, the Tanner Horner trial, and more.Featuring audio from: WWJ Newsradio in Detroit, KNX News in Los Angeles, KYW Newsradio in Philadelphia, KRLD 1080 in Dallas, The Dave Glover Show out of KMOX in St. Louis, A New Morning out of WBEN News Talk in Buffalo and WBBM Newsradio in Chicago.
The latest numbers on jobs, Mexican restaurant chain Chi-Chi’s is returning and airlines execs are on the hot seat in Washington.
Through four generations and nearly 100 years, Oberweis Dairy has been an Illinois giant of industry. From brick-and-mortar ice cream shops to direct-to-consumer milk delivery (which saw record profits during the pandemic), their brand gained enough traction for Jim Oberweis -- grandson of its founder -- to make political headway in the state senate. But last week, the company revealed a series of missteps that have led to potential layoffs and a request for bankruptcy protection. On this week's episode, reporter Robert Channick -- who has been covering these developments for the Chicago Tribune -- joins host and producer Jim Hanke to discuss how the Oberweis story turned sour.
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The results are in, and they're staggering: about 4% of Illinois's population is living with a gambling addiction. With a new Casino and the rise in online sports betting, local mental health facilities are seeing a rise in clients seeking help for problem gambling. So how does this fun, recreational activity become an addiction?
In today's episode, host Arielle Raveney sits down with a problem gambling counselor to discuss the signs and science behind it, and hears the story of how one man was able to recover.
Problem Gambling Online Resources: NICASA | Are You Really Winning?
Problem Gambling Hotlines: 1-800-GAMBLER | 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline)
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Record Store Day is this coming Saturday, April 20th – a national event intended to celebrate your local neighborhood music merchant. Along with several guests this week, host and producer Jim Hanke examines just some of Chicago's many ties to the record industry, past and present, as well as why physical media like vinyl still matters in 2024.
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This is an encore presentation of a previous episode from 9/13/23.
In 2022, Illinois had the third largest rate of non-fatal overdoses in the country, and many are pointing to the distribution of Narcan – a nasal spray that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and save lives – as a major reason. Lighthouse Recovery, a treatment facility in suburban St. Charles, recently became the first in Kane County to establish a free, unmonitored Narcan vending machine, available 24/7. On today’s episode, Lighthouse Clinical Director Nathan Lanthrum joins host Jim Hanke to educate listeners on Narcan and how he’s seen drug addiction increase in suburban areas. Plus, WBBM reporter Lisa Fielding provides what she learned about the opioid epidemic from her multi-part series for the station, titled Generation Heroin, which you can listen to here.
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Putting ketchup on a hot dog: In Chicago, it can get you shunned by strangers or disowned by family. But why? And will a gutsy new viral campaign from Heinz -- with interactive displays giving out free ketchup in front of longtime sausage strongholds like the Wiener's Circle -- sway anyone who's still on the fence? This week, host and producer Jim Hanke welcomes food writer David Hammond to discuss the history of the Chicago hot dog, and why ketchup has become such a divisive condiment along the way.
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This year marks the 20th anniversary of roller derby returning to where it was born: Chicago. But this fast-paced, gender-inclusive sport has had a long, contentious history -- even in it's hometown. So what is roller derby? And why does it not get the same level of recognition as others?
In this episode, host Arielle Raveney sits in on a practice with the team, Chicago-Style, to learn more about the sport and speaks with Elizabeth Gomez, one of the women responsible for bringing Roller Derby home.
Mentioned in the Episode: Windy City Rollers | Chicago-Style | The WFTDA
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This spring, countless cicadas will arrive en masse, in a way that we haven't seen in over 200 years, and that we won't see again until 2245. But beyond their buzzing mating call, did you know that they're perfectly edible? Joining host/producer Jim Hanke this week are University of Illinois Extension educator and Good Growing podcast host Ken Johnson (to discuss the science behind this historic horticultural event) and chef Joseph Yoon of Brooklyn Bugs, who educates listeners on how cicadas can be best collected, prepped, cooked and served.
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Relying weekly on one’s local food pantry for groceries, personal items and more can already be a stressful existence. But now, a myriad of factors are contributing to additional pressure being felt from all sides of the city, as unprecedented demand has led to stretched resources and frayed patience. For example, Nourishing Hope (formerly known as Lakeview Pantry) saw an increase of over 20k first-time clients last year alone, and inflation, an unexpected population increase and a reduction to federal stimulus packages post-lockdown may push that number even higher moving forward. This week, Chicago Tribune reporter Kate Armanini and Nourishing Hope CEO Kellie O'Connell join host/producer Jim Hanke to unpack this growing issue, and how pantries are trying to go beyond food, to feed the soul.
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After a record breaking hot summer, this winter Illinois and the rest of the Midwest saw warmer days and less snow. Is this our new normal?
In today's episode, host Arielle Raveney takes a look at what climate change looks like in Illinois, and how the country's first ever floating eco-park has a nature based solution to reduce it's impact.
Mentioned in the Episode: Wild Mile
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Chicago is known for it's many St. Paddy's Day events as the city itself becomes green, so it may not come as a surprise to know that the city has the second highest Irish population in the nation. The tradition of an annual parade in the city began in 1843, with the event getting bigger and bigger -- until 1890.
In this episode, host Jim Hanke explores what early celebrations looked like in the city, and how the annual tradition came to be canceled in 1890 with Dr. Gillian O’Brien, author of the book “Blood Runs Green: The Murder That Transfixed Gilded Age Chicago.”
Mentioned in the Episode: Dr. Gillian O'Brien | “Blood Runs Green: The Murder That Transfixed Gilded Age Chicago”
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Earlier this week, a sudden development came in the ongoing stadium saga of the Chicago Bears: Instead of making use of the Arlington Heights land they acquired last year, it seems now the focus is on a new project south of their current Soldier Field domain -- on the city's lakefront -- with $2 billion of their own money. This week, host and producer Jim Hanke welcomes stadium finance expert Robert Boland, an assistant professor of sports law at Seton Hall Law School, to get his take on this potential new deal, and how other major sports cities have handled their own stadium debates on public vs. private funding.
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During his decade of pro hockey, former Chicago Blackhawk Daniel Carcillo (nicknamed "Car Bomb" for his aggressive approach on the ice) racked up two Stanley Cup Championships and over 150 fights. But the stat most pressing to Carcillo since his retirement has been the seven diagnosed concussions he sustained as a player, and the hundreds he says that went undiagnosed through his career. Now, Carcillo has made it his mission to push state and federal agencies for funding as well as public access to psilocybin -- generally referred to as "magic mushrooms" -- a natural treatment for the traumatic brain injuries that he says saved his life. This week, during Brain Injury Awareness Month, we hear audio from WBBM reporter Jim Gudas' recent interview with Carcillo, as well as State Senator Rachel Ventura discussing Illinois' approach to this potential treatment with host and producer Jim Hanke.
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Chicagoland is one of the most biodiverse regions in the country. Every year, we witness the migration of hundreds of different varieties of birds soar through our sky. Yet there’s one fowl you won’t fail to see year round: Pigeons.
In this episode, host Arielle Raveney has a conversation about conservation with bird experts, explores the danger of migration season, and how it all begins, and ends, with pigeons.
Mentioned in This Episode: The Brookfield Zoo | Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary | The Chicago Ornithological Society
See Photos of Birds-Around-Chicago on our TikTok or Instagram
This is the second of a two-part episode. For part one, scroll back in your podcast feed.
This week, WBBM morning news anchor Cisco Cotto sits down with WGN Chief Meteorologist Tom Skilling, who will retire today -- Feb. 28th -- after over four decades with the station, and almost sixty years in broadcasting. During this discussion, Tom recalls some of the biggest weather moments in his career, and how the birth of social media allowed viewers to become weather warriors themselves.
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This week, WBBM morning news anchor Cisco Cotto sits down with WGN Chief Meteorologist Tom Skilling, who will retire later this month after over four decades with the station, and almost sixty years in broadcasting. This is the first of a two-part episode, the latter of which will air Wednesday, February 28th to coincide with Tom's final weather report.
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All around Chicago, you can find intricate murals that tell a story or brighten up a neighborhood. With all this art, it's not surprising to discover that spray paint was invented here in the 1940's -- only to be outlawed in the 1990's. So how do new murals emerge, and what is their significance to the city?
In this episode, host Arielle Raveney sits down with local organization, the Chicago Public Arts Group, and street artists Chris Devins and Mario Mena, to answer these questions.
Mentioned in the Episode: Chicago Public Arts Group | Chris Devins | Mario Mena | Yollo Calli Youth Outreach
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This week, host and producer Jim Hanke examines the national interest in Chicago tavern-style pizza -- razor thin, cut to squares and for some, putting traditional deep dish to shame. Author, media personality and pizza expert Steve Dolinsky provides some history on this Windy City mainstay, and Chicago Tribune food critic Louisa Chu discusses three particular spots adding unique spins to tavern-style, and taking that crispy, savory circle to a whole new level.
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On this week's episode, host and producer Jim Hanke previews this weekend's Chicago Auto Show with car enthusiast and WBBM editor Geoff Buchholz and CBS Radio's Jennifer Keiper.
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This is an encore presentation of a previous episode from 7/24/23.
With “The Bear” creating hype and conversation around Michelin Stars and the food world, we dig in to discover the process behind how a restaurant receives one. We speak with Master Chef Graham Elliot about his experience as a chef and restaurant owner. As well as food journalists Samantha Nelson and Mike Gebert about their opinions on the dining scene in Chicago.
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Graham Elliot: site | Instagram
Samantha Nelson: Linkedin
Mike Gebert: Fooditor
Michelin Star Places in Chicago
On top of the return of the fan-fueled Sox Fest in 2025, and the team's new history-making TV announcer John Schriffen this season, the South Side has been buzzing as of late with talk of a new potential home for the White Sox. Located where Roosevelt Road meets the Chicago River, The 78 is an as-yet-undeveloped site of a former rail and lumber yard, and would bring the team closer to downtown if they allowed their lease to run out at Guaranteed Rate Field in 2029. This week, host and producer Jim Hanke hears from WBBM sports reporter Rick Gregg, Chicago Magazine contributor Bob Reed, and Sox journalist Scott Merkin about the steady stream of excitement that's been building this month for the White Sox faithful.
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This year's annual report on Chicago Public Schools from the Office of Inspector General provided several headline-making findings, including financial woes from missing technology and potential embezzlement. This week, CPS IG Will Fletcher joins host Jim Hanke for a one-on-one discussion about the report, and what can be done in the future to combat and prevent similar issues.
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According to the National Health Institute, 1 in 5 people below the age of 65 report rationing insulin due to cost. This year Illinois’s new law, the Generic Drug Pricing Fairness Act, is in effect that restricts manufacturers and wholesale distributors from price gouging essential medicine.
In this episode, host Arielle Raveney unpacks what this law means, and how it reflects the current state of healthcare for millions of Illinois residents.
Mentioned in This Episode: Citizen Action
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Multiple suburbs of Chicago have now begun to pass ordinances responding to large numbers of migrants being bussed in from out-of-state. This week, Looped In: Chicago host and producer Jim Hanke speaks with WBBM reporter Carolina Garibay on what she saw and heard at the city's south loop landing zone. There, recently-arriving migrants were sleeping on buses, but spoke with Carolina about their hope for a brighter future here in the United States. This feed is delivering a truncated version, with the full episode and additional interviews available here.
WBBM sports reporters Rick Gregg and Josh Liss join host Jim Hanke this week to recap the Chicago Bears' below-average 7-10 season, while tackling questions on Justin Fields' future as the team's quarterback, where the new stadium will end up and what glimmers of hope are there for 2024. Plus, you'll hear audio from throughout the 2023 season from coaches, players and staff, direct from Halas Hall.
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As multiple suburbs of Chicago have now begun to pass ordinances responding to large numbers of migrants being bussed in from out-of-state, host and producer Jim Hanke speaks with several guests this week about the latest update on this multi-layered and ongoing issue:
- WBBM's Carolina Garibay reports on what she saw at the city's south loop landing zone, where recently-arriving migrants were sleeping on buses, but spoke with her about their hope for a brighter future here in the United States.
- Kane County Sheriff Ron Hain describes the scene when an unannounced bus from Texas arrived last month in rural Elburn, and how his team has adapted to assist with future drop-offs in the area.
- Immigration advocate Lee Goodman voices his opposition to suburban communities passing migrant buses on to Chicago, arguing that most of these townships have enough available resources to handle the influx on their own.
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Illinois is the first state to tackle the issue on many social media-user's minds: what about the children? Starting in July of this year, kids involved in their family's lucrative vlog content are now required financial compensation for their time on the screen.
In this episode, host Arielle Raveney unpacks the specifics of this bill and how growing up behind a screen could effect these kids in the long run.
Mentioned in the Episode: Quit Clicking Kids | State Senator Koehler | IFC Counseling Chicago
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This is an encore presentation of a previous episode from 7/31/23.
Small, indie hot sauce brands are like the new homemade craft beer brewers of recent years. In the last quarter century, the hot sauce market has almost doubled annually, leading to a value of $3 billion in 2022. So why has this obsession with heat gathered so much steam? This week, host Jim Hanke speaks with hot sauce influencer Brian Ambs about current hot sauce culture, as well as High Desert Sauce Company founder Zac Perkins, whose trajectory took him from living on the streets to the biggest stage in sauce: the viral online series Hot Ones.
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As we approach a new year, host Jim Hanke welcomes several friends and previous guests of Looped In: Chicago to discuss what to expect in all things Cubs, White Sox, finance and auto news next year. Tune in to hear visits from Danny Parkins of 670 The Score, Jeff Gilbert of Detroit’s WWJ, and WBBM’s Rob Hart and Andy Giersher as they pontificate about their particular topics of focus.
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Chicago-area photographer Lenny Gilmore has shot portraits of some of the city's most recognizable personalities, from Chief Keef and Chance the Rapper to actor Michael Shannon and hockey's Marian Hossa. But in 2015, while documenting a local roller derby team, a fire was lit within Gilmore to pursue roller skating himself. And last year, the love affair became a commitment to roller skating every single day, with Gilmore often documenting his adventures on social media -- blazing through sleepy neighborhoods, busy intersections and even late-night skates inside O'Hare. Now having clocked 500 continuous days of skating (and counting), Gilmore discusses today how he turned his perpetual passion into a new children's book, as well as how the Batavia native views his skills as passports to exploring the world. In tandem with this episode, keep an eye on our social media for video of Gilmore roller skating through our WBBM offices and newsroom, to celebrate his 500th skate day!
Follow Lenny Gilmore on TikTok | Purchase "If You Roller Skated the World"
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2023 has come and gone. This year was big for the Looped In team - we rebranded from Courier Pigeon, and we had the privilege to cover so many stories and communities. In this episode, we are showcasing two extended interviews from episodes you as our listeners liked the most: Turtel Onli from "The Fight for Truth and Justice in Comic Books," and Dr. Denise Sandoval from "History on Wheels: Cruising Through Lowrider Culture."
These individuals showcase the power of community. Turtel is an independent publisher of comics with his company, Onli Studios. He brings afro-centric characters to life and even hosts an annual comic book convention titled "The Black Age of Comics." Dr. Denise Sandoval has spent 25 years documenting Lowrider culture and their history. She currently has an exhibit in the Smithsonian titled: Corazón y Vida: Lowrider Culture in the United States.
Mentioned in the Episode: Onli Studios | Corazón y Vida
Listen Here: "The Fight for Truth and Justice in Comic Books" | "History on Wheels: Cruising Through Lowrider Culture"
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Though bowling has yet to reach official Olympic-level competition, Chicago's connection to the sport is long-held. And last month, a competitor from our area even become the best bowler in the world, as AJ Johnson -- who essentially grew up at Parkside Lanes in Aurora -- took home the gold medal in singles bowling at the Pan Am Games in Santiago, Chile. On today's episode, WBBM sports reporter Rick Gregg sits down with Johnson at Parkside Lanes to discuss his incredible journey from Oswego to the Andes mountains, and why he feels bowling has yet to become an Olympic sport, despite its cultural popularity over the generations.
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Aside from full, edge-of-your-seat concert experiences, what set Beyoncé and Taylor Swift's concert films apart from the pack at the box office this year? Turns out they bypassed the studio system entirely, and brought both of their movies to audiences more directly. So what does this landmark move mean for the film industry going forward? On today's episode, host/producer Jim Hanke speaks with Chicago Tribune film critic Michael Phillips about that topic, this summer's 'Barbenheimer' phenomenon, and more regarding the year in movies.
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Christmas is almost here! As you brave the weather for holiday shopping, followed by a night of family TV viewing of yuletide favorites, do you know which famous Christmas icons have Chicago roots?
On today's episode, we explore the true stories behind Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer as well as the famous window displays of Marshall Field's, and how their original, winged character and creativity inspired Christmas traditions throughout the years.
Mentioned in the Episode: Chicago Film Archives
See Photos of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer and Marshall Field's Window Displays Here
Longtime Chicago sports media personality George Ofman, host of his own podcast -- Tell Me A Story I Don't Know -- has recently turned some of his best interviews over the years with fellow broadcasters, reporters, pro coaches and more into an intriguing new book of the same name. During this second of two episodes this week with Ofman, you'll hear audio from Tell Me A Story featuring conversations with celebrated Cubs play-by-play man Pat Hughes, Blackhawks National Anthem singer Wayne Messmer and sportscaster Peggy Kusinski.
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If you’re a lifelong listener to Chicago radio, you know George Ofman well. His nearly 50 years in sports journalism have brought him to WBBM, The Score and WGN, among other outlets. Now the host of his own podcast -- Tell Me A Story I Don't Know -- Ofman has turned some of his best interviews with sports broadcasters, reporters, coaches and more into an intriguing new book of the same name. During this first of two episodes this week with Ofman, you'll hear audio from Tell Me A Story featuring conversations with national sports icon Bob Costas, former White Sox play-by-play announcer Jason Benetti and previous Bears HC Dave Wannstedt.
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According to stats from the National Retail Federation, crime along Chicago's Magnificent Mile is down since 2020, despite viral videos of break-ins, crash-and-grabs and more seemingly painting a different story. So how are business development organizations and shop owners building consumer confidence, attempting to reverse stigmas, and working to attract more locals and tourists to Chicago's downtown? This week, WBBM reporter Brandon Ison provides compelling audio recorded in the Loop and Mag Mile on all of the above. You can also hear more on this subject on our recent nationwide broadcast "Audacy Conversations: The State of Downtown" moderated by WBBM's Cisco Cotto.
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Nearly 75% of America's Native population currently reside in urban settings. In a move to recognize and push the advancement of that demographic, Illinois passed three separate bills this year to protect Native history and culture. But, how do these laws reflect the reality of Chicago's Native population, the third-largest out of all major US cities?
In this episode Looped In: Chicago host Arielle Raveney explores this question through dance by the Black Hawk Performance Company, and a conversation with Marne Smiley from the Chicago American Indian Community Collaborative (CAICC).
Mentioned in the Episode: CAICC | American Indian Association of Illinois | Chicago Public Library
Singing and drumming heard throughout the episode is by the Little Priest Singers. The event was hosted by Dr. Dorene Wiese, President and CEO of the American Indian Association of Illinois. The grass dance history was recounted by Winfield Woundedeye.
See Photos of the Dancers Here
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This coming March, the ballot box will see a vote on Bring Chicago Home, an ordinance to determine if taxes should be increased on the sale of high-end properties -- ranging from residences to office buildings, valued at $1 million or more -- in order to fund programs to battle the city's homelessness crisis. Today, host Jim Hanke speaks with guests on both sides of the issue: Former mayoral candidate Paul Vallas, currently an adviser with the Illinois Policy Institute, says that this tax would fall directly on commercial real estate owners who are already seeing declines in value, while Dixon Romeo (executive director of Not Me We, a grassroots community group in South Shore) advocates that the increase in taxes is minimal, and that this move could raise a projected $100 million annually to fund permanent supportive housing.
Visit Illinois Policy Institute | Visit Bring Chicago Home
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This is an encore presentation of a previous Looped In: Chicago episode from July 2023, in honor Veterans Day.
Since 2008 the Chicago hub for Honor Flight -- a nationwide non-profit -- has flown more than 10,000 US veterans to Washington, DC at no cost, in order to pay respect to their bravery and sacrifice. And in recent years, Vietnam veterans (who have notably struggled with various aspects of PTSD) have become Honor Flight's main beneficiaries. On today's episode, we follow a veteran from Oak Lawn and his daughter on their journey with Honor Flight, and learn how the organization is benefitting these military heroes almost 50 years since their service.
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On this second half of a two-part episode, longtime WXRT disc jockey Terri Hemmert chats with WBBM anchor and resident radio-history buff Rob Hart about her 50 years on-air in Chicago, and educating students at Columbia College about how music and civil rights intersect. Be sure to tune into our first episode with Terri, awaiting you in your podcast feed.
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For five decades, Terri Hemmert has been a voice that Chicagoans rely on not just for new music or Beatles factoids, but for being an advocate of the arts. Inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2010, she first joined the on-air staff of WXRT in 1973, becoming the first female drive-time host on a Chicago rock radio station. Still, she humbly admits that her giddiness to play records and connect with her audience pushed her career more so than blazing trails. Whether as a disc jockey or as an instructor at Columbia College, the city's appreciation for Hemmert as an educator is limitless, as shown last week, when 93XRT celebrated Hemmert's 50th anniversary with the station. In this first of a two-part episode, WBBM anchor and resident radio-history buff Rob Hart sits down with Hemmert to discuss her journey from small-town Ohio to the airwaves of Chicago.
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The last 7 days of October marked National Magic Week, to honor the infamous Houdini. But in a world of technology and CGI, where does magic fit in?
In this week's episode of Looped In: Chicago, host Arielle Raveney visits a local, popular magic venue to see if wonder still exists in the modern world.
Mentioned in the Episode: The Chicago Magic Lounge | Magician Ben Barnes
See Photos of the Event Here
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From clothing stores to pharmacies, retail accounts for about one-fifth of Illinois' workforce and is the second-largest revenue generator in the state. So as crash-and-grab robberies (those that use the force of a large vehicle to break the entrance of a store) continue to rise, how does this affect our safety and our economy? This week, host Jim Hanke speaks with Rob Karr, President/CEO of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association -- or, IRMA -- to find out how the organization works with state representatives to deter these ram-and-raid crime sprees, as well as balances the needs of both national chains and local independent stores.
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Chicagoland's rich architectural history means that some of its most well-known buildings are approaching 200 years of existence. So with Halloween approaching, we were curious: Do the spirits of people who lived or worked there still inhabit them?
On this week's episode, you'll hear theories around the science behind ghosts and the paranormal, as well as actual audio from an investigation host Arielle Raveney went on with Chicago's local Ghost Research Society -- inside the oldest limestone roundhouse in the nation, owned by Two Brothers Brewery in Aurora.
Featured in the Episode: The Ghost Research Society | Two Brothers Roundhouse
Check out Photos from our Adventure Here
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Just before passing away earlier this month, 104-year-old Dorothy Hoffner of Chicago completed a record-setting tandem skydive, potentially becoming the oldest person to ever do so. On this week's episode, host Jim Hanke showcases audio from WBBM reporter Nancy Harty -- highlighting interviews with both Dorothy herself and close friend Joe Conant -- learning how skydiving became a passion for Dorothy in her golden years. Plus, WBBM social media editor AnnMarie Welser discusses her experience filming the skydive from the plane.
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Chicago's sanctuary city status has been put to the test as 18,000 Asylum Seekers have been bussed and flown here since August of last year. As busses continue to arrive by the dozen a day, how is the city grappling with this humanitarian crisis?
In this weeks episode of Looped In: Chicago, host Arielle Raveney speaks with WBBM reporters about community reaction, budget funding, and more.
Mentioned in the Episode: The Resurrection Project | The Nikolas Lee Foundation |
Alderman Budget Reaction
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As fall rolls in, the time of school sports is upon us. But what exactly does this look like for the kids and teens who play?
In this week's episode, we take a look at some of the barriers, benefits and psychological effects that youth sports have on young folks with WBBM Sport Reporters Rick Gregg and Josh Liss.
Mentioned in the Episode: The Sports Shed | Top Tier North Baseball Club
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This summer marked a bombshell conversation with Congress when a former Air Force Intelligence Officer testified to congress that the government is aware of non-human UFO technology and biologics. What does that mean for us on Earth?
In this episode, host Arielle Raveney speaks with organizations on this planet whose goal is to bring awareness to UFO activity experienced across the nation.
In This Episode: The National UFO Reporting Center | Center for UFO Studies
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More than 45,000 people will descend upon the city this weekend to compete in Sunday's Bank of America Chicago Marathon, but what's it like to convey all that action over the air? Longtime WBBM sports reporter Josh Liss joins host Jim Hanke this week to provide expertise on his two-plus decades covering the event, and the backstories of particular runners that intrigue him. Plus, 2022's quickest Chicago resident to cross the finish line -- Dan Kremske -- describes his approach and what fuels him on his quest to make the U.S. Olympic team. Listeners can tune in starting at 7am to 670 The Score or on the free Audacy app for complete marathon coverage this Sunday, October 8th.
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Some have called 2023 a “summer of strikes,” with almost 300% more total union-related walks off the job than last year. And while WGA and UPS have reached agreement terms, SAG-AFTRA and the United Auto Workers remain on the picket line, asking for better compensation in comparison to company leadership. On today’s episode, Detroit-based auto reporter Jeff Gilbert of WWJ Newsradio joins host Jim Hanke to discuss how UAW’s current strike has involved workers at a few Chicagoland plants, why this strike is so unprecedented, and whether we see an end in sight. And for further context on today's discussion, revisit our episode from earlier this year, about Chicago's own history with unionization.
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Death is something we will all experience, yet every scenario is unique. To live with grief isn't easy -- especially for kids. The organization Kids Above All has a solution for youths who are affected by homicide: a free grief camp. On today's episode, host Arielle Raveney speaks with the organization, as well as explores what grief looks like through the loss of her own mother, earlier this year.
Follow Kids Above All on Facebook | Follow Depth Counseling on Facebook
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In recent weeks, many Chicagoland libraries have received anonymous bomb threats, forcing them to close and be searched while the communities they serve aren't allowed access to the literature and services the libraries provide. On this week's Looped In: Chicago, host Jim Hanke speaks with WBBM reporter Bernie Tafoya about the latest info on these hoaxes, as well as journalist Alison Cuddy, whose recent podcast series about the Chicago Public Library's 150 year history provides some context on other eras where threats have occurred.
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Last year, Illinois had the third largest rate of non-fatal overdoses in the country, and many are pointing to the distribution of Narcan – a nasal spray that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and save lives – as a major reason. Lighthouse Recovery, a treatment facility in suburban St. Charles, recently became the first in Kane County to establish a free, unmonitored Narcan vending machine, available 24/7. On today’s episode, Lighthouse Clinical Director Nathan Lanthrum joins host Jim Hanke to educate listeners on Narcan and how he’s seen drug addiction increase in suburban areas. Plus, WBBM reporter Lisa Fielding provides what she learned about the opioid epidemic from her multi-part series for the station, titled Generation Heroin.
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September is national Service Dog month, but do you know what it takes for an animal to train beyond pet status?
In this episode of Looped In: Chicago, we explore the laws, training and love that goes into making these pooches so reliable. Plus, we look into how those who falsely claim their animal as providing emotional support or service can hinder others with real needs.
Mentioned in the Episode:
Candace - TikTok | Instagram
Paws Giving Independence - Instagram | Website
Tyra the Service Dog - Instagram
Follow WBBM on all socials @WBBMPodcasts
As the 2023 Chicago Bears gear up for a season kick-off hosting Green Bay, host Jim Hanke sits down with WBBM sports reporter Rick Gregg to find out how the Bears plan to turn things around after their performance last year, as worst in the league. From Justin Fields' options at QB to what the team's storied defense brings to the table this fall, dig into Looped In: Chicago's breakdown of what to watch out for starting this Sunday.
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Headlines over the last week regarding the White Sox have gone from curious to concerning: Between a potential sale or all-out relocation of the team to the exit of some of their top brass to recent gunfire in the bleachers, the South Siders also can't seem to escape their already disastrous season on the field to boot. This week, host Jim Hanke is joined by WBBM news anchor Rob Hart as well as Sox Machine managing editor Jim Margalus, to find out what's exactly happening at 35th & Shields.
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This summer, the city has seen floods and record breaking heat, is this our new normal?
In today's episode, we take a look at what climate change looks like in Illinois, and how the country's first ever floating eco-park has a nature based solution to reduce it's impact.
Mentioned in the Episode: Wild Mile
Sources: Illinois Climate Change Facts & Best States to Live
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As back-to-school season begins, some are focusing on what's going on in the classroom, and more so what's happening within the culture of sports teams and extracurricular groups.
The hazing scandal at Northwestern University, in particular, has shined a light on difficult conversations for students, their parents and faculty members.
This episode showcases as recent roundtable discussion -- led by WBBM news anchor Rob Hart -- with three hazing experts who share their expertise and thoughts about how and why these practices start, and what red flags parents can keep an eye out for in their own children who participate in groups where hazing could be happening.
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Chicago has seen a lot of fast cars lately. With NASCAR racing through our streets and Formula one revving up to begin, we take a look at the slower side of car culture.
Lowriders have been around since the 1940's, but did you know there's more to this group than just beautiful cars? In this episode, we explore the community behind Lowriders and bust some pop culture myths surrounding these vehicles.
Mentioned in the episode: Damage Auto Werks
See Photos of the Cars and Follow WBBM Newsradio: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Lately everyone talks about what the “correct” amount to tip is, especially after the pandemic.
But with service work being based on tips is the norm, some servers and patrons are saying to ending tipping all together. Though, there are people who still prefer to make their living through tipped work.
In this week's episode, we explore both sides of the table if Illinois should slash of subminimum wage.
Mentioned in the Episode: One Fair Wage & the Illinois Restaurant Association
Sources: USA.gov | WTTW
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It's been 30 years since anti-apartheid activist and politician Nelson Mandela visited Chicago. In this episode we look at the decades leading up to the end of the apartheid in South Africa through stories and images from retired activist Joan Gerig.
Check out the photos described in this episode here!
As assaults and robberies against letter carriers increase, what can be done at a federal level, as well as in our Chicago neighborhoods, to better ensure safety? This week, host Jim Hanke speaks with Spencer Block -- a Public Information Officer and Postal Inspector with the law enforcement arm of the US Postal Service -- to find out more.
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All around the country, workplaces of different fields are walking out, striking and unionizing on a scale we haven't seen for decades. This got us thinking: Why do workers strike? Is there a pattern to be seen of these events throughout history?
In this Episode of Looped In, we explore the history of labor movements in our country and answer these questions with expert guests Dr. Steve Macek and Kim Kelly, journalist and author of the book "Fight Like Hell: The Untold History of American Labor."
Follow Kim Kelly on twitter @GrimKim
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Chicago will once again host Lollapalooza this weekend -- a massive multi-day concert experience, known the world over for bringing the biggest names in music together. In the wake of recent viral videos of high-profile artists like Cardi B and Drake being hit by flying objects from fans, host Arielle Raveney speaks with two music industry professionals -- tour manager Melissa Adams and Sylvan Esso's Nick Sanborn (performing this year at Lolla) -- about live performance etiquette in 2023, and whether standard manners at these shows depend on the generation.
Sylvan Esso Instagram
Small, indie hot sauce brands are like the new homemade craft beer brewers of recent years. In the last quarter century, the hot sauce market has almost doubled annually, leading to a value of $3 billion in 2022. So why has this obsession with heat gathered so much steam? This week, host Jim Hanke speaks with hot sauce influencer Brian Ambs about current hot sauce culture, as well as High Desert Sauce Company founder Zac Perkins, whose trajectory took him from living on the streets to the biggest stage in sauce: Hot Ones.
Follow Brian Ambs on YouTube | Follow High Desert Sauce Co. on Instagram
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Illinois recently became the first state to completely eliminate cash bail, in a move meant to lessen prison overcrowding as well as to find equity for those incarcerated.
But how does this landmark decision affect law enforcement, prosecutors, victims of crime and the families of those jailed? On today's show, host Jim Hanke speaks with WBBM reporter Nancy Harty about what she's found in her coverage of the issue, as well as Kane County State's Attorney Jamie Mosser, about her role in the legislation.
Follow Nancy Harty on Twitter | Follow Jamie Mosser on Twitter
With “The Bear” creating hype and conversation around Michelin Stars and the food world, we dig in to discover the process behind how a restaurant receives one. We speak with Master Chef Graham Elliot about his experience as a chef and restaurant owner. As well as food journalists Samantha Nelson and Mike Gebert about their opinions on the dining scene in Chicago.
Follow WBBM Newsradio: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Graham Elliot: site | Instagram
Samantha Nelson: Linkedin
Mike Gebert: Fooditor
Michelin Star Places in Chicago
Chicago collegiate sports are under a national microscope this month, as Northwestern University Athletics made news for two completely separate, but equally appalling, situations: both football coach Pat Fitzgerald and baseball coach Jim Foster were fired last week for -- among other allegations -- creating or condoning racist, sexist and otherwise harmful behavior, both in the locker room and on the field.
Joining host Jim Hanke today is 670 The Score's Danny Parkins, who originally broke the story last week on Foster's alleged toxic behavior; plus hear from NU journalist Sabrina Vlahakis about the student newspaper's role in exposing a culture of hazing, reportedly ignored by Fitzgerald.
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As one of the first and largest decisions of his new tenure as the Mayor of Chicago, Brandon Johnson has chosen to keep only one member of the Board of Education. Starting next week, they'll move forward with six new representatives, most being CPS parents, like Johnson himself. On this episode of Looped In, we discuss this initiative with WBBM political editor Craig Dellimore and Alderwoman Jeanette Taylor (chair of the City Council’s Education Committee), and find out what this shake-up means for the future of Chicago Public Schools.
Follow Craig Dellimore on Twitter | Follow Ald. Jeanette Taylor on Twitter
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Since 2008 the Chicago hub for Honor Flight -- a nationwide non-profit -- has flown more than 10,000 US veterans to Washington, DC at no cost to pay respect to their bravery and sacrifice. And in recent years Vietnam veterans (who have notably struggled with various aspects of PTSD) have become Honor Flight's main beneficiaries. On today's episode, we follow a veteran from Oak Lawn and his daughter on their recent journey with Honor Flight, and learn how this organization is benefitting these military heroes almost 50 years since their service.
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Honor Flight Chicago's IG: https://instagram.com/honorflightchicago?igshid=YzcxN2Q2NzY0OA==
To see pictures and videos of this event, check them out and follow us on our socials: Twitter, Instagram
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We didn't start the fire but the immense smoke from our northern neighbors blanketed Chicagoland and most of the Midwest last week. But can we expect it to come back? And if it does, what does that mean in the long-term when it comes to our health?
This week we get Looped In with our reporter Bernie Tafoya and TikToker, allergist Dr. Zachary Rubin about what we should anticipate in the future.
Follow Dr. Zachary Rubin: TikTok | Twitter | Insta
Follow Bernie Tafoya on: Twitter
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In an effort to extend their fanbase and excite a new generation about auto racing, NASCAR is undoubtedly making its imprint on Chicago this summer. On this episode, podcast host and producer Jim Hanke examines the intricacies of the sport's first ever street race, and the historical nature of the event, with WBBM sports reporter Rick Gregg and auto racing journalist Kelly Crandall.
Follow Rick Gregg on Twitter | Follow Kelly Crandall on Twitter
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During prohibition, Swedish immigrant Carl Jeppson sold his homemade wormwood liquor door-to-door in the Andersonville neighborhood, skirting anti-alcohol laws by presenting it as medicinal. 90 years later, Malört has a brash reputation but remains a cornerstone of almost every Chicago liquor cabinet. On today's episode, we get to the bottom of the bottle, by going to the top of the Malört dynasty -- CH Distillery in Pilsen. We also visit Nisei Lounge in Wrigleyville to check out their renowned Malört infusions, and attempt to answer why this particular drink is so intrinsically Chicago.
Follow Nisei Lounge on Twitter | Follow Val Capone on Twitter
Follow David Hammond on Twitter | Follow Jeppson's Malört on Twitter
Follow Marlene Sharp on Twitter | Follow CH Distillery on Twitter
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The Chicago Public Library celebrates its 150th anniversary this year.
Along with this birthday comes an increased debate about banned books and what subjects, genres and authors children that should have access to in school or public libraries.
On today's show, podcast producer and host Jim Hanke speaks with WBBM reporter Brandon Ison and Chicago Public Library Commissioner Chris Brown about a new landmark bill, signed by Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. It halts funding to libraries that choose to ban literature due to partisan disapproval.
This is the first law of its kind in the country, so what does this mean for the ongoing nationwide debate?
Sources:
KMOV
CBS This Morning
PBS NewsHour
Fort Worth Report
Follow Brandon Ison on Twitter | Follow Chris Brown on Twitter
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Naperville? Waukegan? Arlington Heights? Or stay at the hallowed halls of Solider Field?
On this first episode of Looped In: Chicago, podcast producer and host Jim Hanke talks with WBBM reporter Terry Keshner and 670 TheScore's Chris Emma about where the football team could migrate to and what's making them second guess their landing pad.
Follow Terry Keshner on Twitter | Follow Chris Emma on Twitter
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First publicly released in November 2022, ChatGPT has since taken over the conversation -- almost literally -- about artificial intelligence. Powered by AI, the chatbot is a natural language processing tool that allows for human-like conversations, and the completion of written tasks based on prompts from real people. And while this technology is still relatively new to the average consumer, the worlds of medicine, business and the creative arts are looking to capitalize in multiple ways. This episode of Courier Pigeon features audio from a recent panel, hosted by WBBM news anchor Rob Hart. Joined by experts from the University of Chicago, Placer.ai and VRAR Chicago, Rob dives into AI's current and future role in our daily lives. For video of the full panel discussion with additional topics and to subscribe to our channel, visit WBBM's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wbbmam.
Since it’s 4/20, we wanted to re-release our previous episode about cannabis and social equity for the day. So sit back, relax, and get your snacks ready for a chill time as we explore Illinois’s regulations, taxes, dispensaries and more in this episode.
Please note: There are some items that have changed since this original podcast release back in December. Check out our sources below for updated information.
Marijuana Business Daily
ABC7
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Original sources:
Mike Krauser from WBBM NewsRadio
Marijuana Business Daily
Forbes
Block Club Chicago
CBS News Chicago
Chicago.gov
New England Journal of Medicine
Pew Research
Drug Policy Alliance
ACLU of Illinois
United States Sentencing Commission
CNBC
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Courier Pigeon is a new podcast from WBBM that will highlight trending topics in Chicagoland. If you have a topic you'd like us to cover, tweet at us: @WBBMPodcasts.
The clock is ticking for the city of Chicago to replace all lead pipes that deliver drinking water. That deadline is over five decades away, but residents can still feel overwhelmed with how to advocate for their own safety. On today's episode, we speak with representatives from the Alliance for The Great Lakes, the Little Village Environmental Justice Organization, and water innovation hub Current on what's happening with our H20, and why.
Sources used:
WTTW
FDA.govDNA InfoWorld Wildlife FundBlock Club ChicagoKYW 1060AM, PhiladelphiaNatural Resources Defense Council, Inc.
For more information on our contributors:
Current
Alliance for the Great Lakes
Rochester Institute of Technology
Little Village Environmental Justice Organization
Listener discretion advised due to language
Each year, Chicago mentorship organization BUILD hosts an inspiring event bringing youth from under-resourced neighborhoods together with area business, media and thought leaders, who have lived a similar experience. On this week's episode, we hear from BUILD's staff about their mission and recent expansion, as well as those who have benefitted from the program, past and present.
Sources used:
cdc.govpewresearch.org
WHNS News
U.S. Dept. of Education
For more information on our contributors:
BUILD
Chicago Sinfonietta
Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern
The Gilded Age was a time in America for railroads, industrial booms and, of course, secret societies. In this special Saint Patrick’s Day episode, we follow the story of the Clan Na Gaels in Chicago during the 1880’s and how a handful of Irishman got the holiday celebrations canceled.
This episode includes a story told by the author of the book "Blood Runs Green: The Murder That Transfixed Gilded Age Chicago," Dr. Gillian O'Brien.
Sources:
https://www.enjoyillinois.com/travel-illinois/the-history-of-chicago-river-dyeing/
https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/archives/teaching_packages/early_chicago/doc23.html
https://historynewsnetwork.org/article/158805
Hunt, Henry M. The Crime of the Century; or, The Assassination of Dr. Patrick Henry Cronin. A complete and authentic history of the greatest of modern conspiracies. University of California Libraries. Chicago : H.L. & D. H. Kochersperger, 1889. · McEnnis, John T., The Clan-Na-Gael and the Murder of Dr. Cronin. San Francisco: G. P. Woodward, 1889.Free full text on the internet archive: https://archive.org/details/clannagaelmurder00mcenrich
In a special Friday release, we look at the Gilded Age of Chicago where one of the first celebrations of St. Patty's Day didn't happen due to secret societies, a murder and violent protests.
Make sure to subscribe to Courier Pigeon so you don't miss this special episode.
Between the advent of radio and film, but before the television revolution, comic books became a popular way to transport kids to different worlds, without leaving home. But what about beyond the page? In this episode of Courier Pigeon, we are exploring Black stories in comics. We sat down with cartoonists, historians and more to see what representation truly means.
Sources Used:
Roadside America
Superman Homepage
Case Western Reserve University
Times of Israel
Nerdist
PBS.org
Comic Book Resources
IGN.com
Thanks to our interviewees:
John Siuntres: Website
Daryle Lockhart: Website
Turtel Onli: Website
Third Coast Comics: Website
Damon L. Fordham: Twitter
Steenz: Website
Whether it’s a huge heavy metal band touring the world, or a local rapper setting up a small, BYOB show, whatever cash artists take home plays a significant role in their ability to continue creating. In our second episode of a two-part series on unconventional performance venues, host Mai Martinez explores ways in which these spaces give Chicagoans different opportunities to monetize their talents, and marginalized artists the power to expand their reach.
Sources Used:
MovieTheaterPrices.com
CriticalImprov.com
More information on our sources:
American Aquarium: Instagram
Bryan Schroth: Instagram
Kenya Elan: Instagram
Joe Tyse: Instagram
For every long-standing theater or music club in Chicago, there’s an independent venue in an unexpected place: your neighborhood plant shop, a century-old church, or even someone’s living room. Taking on a more do-it-yourself approach allows particular artists to make their mark by having a more direct relationship with longtime fans, while also introducing themselves to new audiences. This week, in the first of a two-part series, host Mai Martinez examines how four particular performers – musicians David Bazan and Andrew Bird, comedian/writer Kenya Elan and DIY producer DC – are paving their own way in this regard.
Sources Used:
ChicagoHistory.org
Chicago Tribune
More information on our sources:
David Bazan: Website
Andrew Bird: Website
Fourth Presbyterian Church: Website
Kenya Elan: Instagram
In Chicago, with every heavy snowfall comes something even heavier: The debate on dibs. While no laws on the books protect your automobile's spot on the street, it's a respected tradition for many that spans generations. For others, it seems ridiculous to respect a chair, a crib, a piano or anything else taking up prime real estate in a city already rife with parking issues. This week on Courier Pigeon, we dig our shovels into the history of dibs, getting the pro's and con's from citizens and asking what, if anything, can be done to make both sides happy.
Sources Used:
Chicago Tribune
Chicago Magazine
Accuweather.com
More information on our sources:
Cook County Sheriff's Office
Chicago History Museum
Gery Chico: LinkedIn
Adam Selzer: Website
Nicholas Papaleo: Website
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Courier Pigeon is a new podcast from WBBM that will highlight trending topics in Chicagoland. If you have a topic you'd like us to cover, tweet at us: @WBBMPodcasts.
Following states like Colorado and Washington, Illinois passed its own Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act almost three years ago, permitting that the drug can be sold and taxed similarly to alcohol. But hurdles such as financing and ensuring social equity remain, so diverse dispensary owners can be on similar footing. This week on Courier Pigeon, we examine the hurdles of Illinois' marijuana legalities, and how one area community college is educating and certifying the state's future cannabis entrepreneurs.
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Sources:
Mike Krasuer from WBBM NewsRadio
Marijuana Business Daily
ForbesBlock Club ChicagoCBS News ChicagoChicago.govNew England Journal of MedicinePew ResearchDrug Policy AllianceACLU of IllinoisUnited States Sentencing CommissionCNBC
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Courier Pigeon is a new podcast from WBBM that will highlight trending topics in Chicagoland. If you have a topic you'd like us to cover, tweet at us: @WBBMPodcasts.
On this week's Courier Pigeon, Planned Parenthood of Illinois and the ACLU of Illinois helps us track the affects of Roe v. Wade being overturned this past summer and what's next for abortions rights across the Midwest.
More information on our sources:
Brigid Leahy: Planned Parenthood
Ashley Gray: Center for Reproductive Rights
Ameri Klafeta: ACLU of Illinois
Sources Used:
University of Colorado Boulder
UChicago Medicine
The Washington Post
University of Michigan Ross
NPR
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Courier Pigeon is a new podcast from WBBM that will highlight trending topics in Chicagoland. If you have a topic you'd like us to cover, tweet at us: @WBBMPodcasts.
In this episode of Courier Pigeon: a professor guides us through the top races for this years Illinois midterm elections and we learn more about the impact of workers rights.
More information on our sources:
Stephen Maynard-Caliendo: Twitter & YouTube
Joe Bowen: Workers Rights Campaign, Insta, Twitter
Kathi Griffin: Twitter
Sources Used:
National Low Income Housing Coalition
ABC7 News
Towson University Study
Illinois Policy Organization
CBS News
Politico
Brennan Center for Justice
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Courier Pigeon is a new podcast from WBBM that will highlight trending topics in Chicagoland. If you have a topic you'd like us to cover, tweet at us: @WBBMPodcasts.
In the final installment of our Spooky Series we learn about some of Chicago's most famous haunted neighborhoods and attractions. We talk with Chicago historian Adam Selzer for some insight along with a paranormal team and someone who watches over a famous cemetery.
More information on our sources:
Adam Selzer: Mysterious Chicago
Jensen Allen: Graceland Cemetery
Sources Used:
Atlas Obscura
CBS News
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Courier Pigeon is a new podcast from WBBM that will highlight trending topics in Chicagoland
In the first episode of our Spooky Series, we uncover the truths behind fear and how it's a very subjective experience from the minds of a sociologist and haunted house reviewer.
More information on our sources:
Margee Kerr: Sociologist & Author
Kris Zahrobsky: Haunted House Reviewer
Sources Used:
Smithsonian Magazine
Haunted House Association
REJournals
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Courier Pigeon is a new podcast from WBBM that will highlight trending topics in Chicagoland
While we take a week off, you can listen to one of Audacy's newest mini-series, "The Homestretch."
It’s the lead up to Nov. 8 midterm elections and stakes are higher than ever. The podcast is a political primer on important topics that you might have questions about, and our podcast team hits it out of the park so you're more than informed once you head to the polls.
The episode featured has guest economist Christopher Thornberg, founder of Beacon economics, on to explain why most of what we believe about inflation is probably wrong.
Make sure to subscribe to "The Homestretch" so you don't miss an episode.
Courier Pigeon will be back next week as our new spooky selves with our haunted mini-series!
Courier Pigeon is taking this week off in order to transform into our spooky forms.
Our mini series for the rest of October examines the questions: why do we like to be scared? Are ghosts real? Why are so many places haunted?
To help us investigate, we tap in experts like Chicago's own Adam Selzer, sociologist Dr. Margee Keer and more.
Make sure to check back next week Thursday for the first creepy episode!
Courier Pigeon is a new podcast from WBBM that will highlight trending topics in Chicagoland
Want us to cover a topic you think needs more attention? Tweet at us @WBBMPodcasts and let us know! Keep up to date with us too over on Insta.
Like the podcast? Make sure to rate and subscribe on the Audacy app, ITunes and Spotify so you don’t miss an episode.
More than ever, people are starting to put down their glasses and opting for non-alcoholic drink options. We pour out the reasons behind this phenomenon by talking with a suburban low-alcohol bar owner, a Chicago-based dry bar owner who crowdfunded her community space and a woman who's pulling back and evaluating her drinking habits.
The bars mentioned in the episode can be found here:
Go Brewing (Naperville, IL; low & no-alcohol bar)
Bendicion Dry Bar (Chicago, Humboldt Park; dry bar & community space)
Sources Used:
Wired: “The End of Alcohol,” Block Club Chicago, BBC, FDA, Penn Museum, CDC, Atlas Obscura, Alimentarium, Drug Abuse Statistics, The Recovery Village, NIAA
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Courier Pigeon is a new podcast from WBBM that will highlight trending topics in Chicagoland
Want us to cover a topic you think needs more attention? Tweet at us @WBBMPodcasts and let us know! Keep up to date with us too over on Insta.
Like the podcast? Make sure to rate and subscribe on the Audacy app, ITunes and Spotify so you don’t miss an episode.
On this week's Courier Pigeon we look back at the Chicago Tylenol Murders through the eyes of a former CBS 2 reporter who worked on the story in 1982 that claimed the lives of 7 people in the northwestern suburbs of Chicago.
Sources Used:
CBS Chicago
AP News
UIC School of Public Health
PBS News Hour
Thank you to John "Bulldog" Drummond and WBBM morning anchor and reporter Mai Martinez (@MaiReports) for her reporting.
We heard about universal income thanks to Andrew Yang, but what exactly is it and who's had success with that sort of program? This week on Courier Pigeon, we explore a current program in Chicago, how it's done outside of the country, plus one that proved successful on the west coast.
On this week's Courier Pigeon, we discuss the continuous water system issue in south suburban Dixmoor and the Village President talks with us about how they plan to move forward in the face of adversity.
Courier Pigeon is a new podcast from WBBM that will highlight trending topics affecting Chicagoans and beyond.
Want us to cover a topic you think needs more attention? Tweet at us @WBBMPodcasts and let us know!
Sources Used:
CBS News
WBBM Newsradio
In this episode we unravel President Biden's new student loan debt forgiveness plan and how it will effect families in the short and long term. You'll hear from a current graduate student about the stressors of debt, a financial aid advisor informs us about how important it is to disseminate accurate information, and the President of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators breaks down the history of student loans.
Courier Pigeon is a new podcast from WBBM that will highlight trending topics affecting Chicagoans and beyond.
Want us to cover a topic you think needs more attention? Tweet at us @WBBMPodcasts and let us know!
Sources Used:
Buzzfeed
NASFAA
Student Loan Forgiveness Plan Fact Sheet
Chicago is known for being a "union town." Although, do you ever think of your local barista becoming apart of one? This episode of WBBM's InDepth, we dive deep into local coffee shops and their unionization efforts, successes, failures and uncertainty for workers rights. Along with the different degrees of acceptance from their workplaces.
On this week's episode of InDepth, we discuss the current uptick in violence on the CTA trains and buses, equitable transportation, and new solutions to a long standing problem.
On this week's InDepth, we discuss the importance of the sales tax holiday for school related items and speak with a parent, teacher, and education reporter about the current state of the economy and how it is affecting the cost of the most essential items.
Follow Chalkboard Chicago reporter Samantha Smylie
Follow WBBM Podcasts on Twitter & Insta to stay up to date on new episodes, out every Thursday. Plus, tweet at us @WBBMpodcasts and let us know what topics you'd like us to go indepth about.
On this week's InDepth, we attend Lollapalooza to find out just how much it impacts the city and its residents. From activists fighting for minors' safety to the economic benefit of one of the largest and longest-running festivals in the United States.
Make sure to subscribe to WBBM InDepth on the Audacy app; leave us a review & rate on Apple Podcasts, too!
Have a topic or story you want us to go InDepth about? Tweet us at @wbbmpodcasts
On this week's InDepth, we dive deep into the current state of affordable housing and homelessness with the Director of Policy for the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless and hear from community members at one of three budget public engagement forums about their concerns.
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On this week's InDepth, we learn about the new National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 9-8-8 and how some Chicago residents feel about its benefits during crisis situations. You'll hear from the Director of Policy for NAMI Chicago and a former phone operator for a substance abuse treatment center.
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On this week's InDepth, we dive deeper into to the data released from the University of Chicago Medicine's Community Health Needs Assessment. The triannual assessment put a magnifying glass on health disparities on the south side of Chicago and south suburban Cook County. In this episode, you'll hear from UChicago's Senior Vice President of Community Health Transformation and a resident of Harvey, Illinois.
Make sure to subscribe to WBBM In Depth on the Audacy app; leave us a review & rate on Apple Podcasts, too! Have a topic or story you want us to go InDepth about? Tweet us at @wbbmpodcasts
On today's In Depth, Host Jill DeGroot- with the help of the WBBM Newsroom reporters- rounds up everything you need to know about the Highland Park Shooting. This is a developing story so stay tuned to WBBM Newsradio for more information.
Make sure to subscribe to WBBM InDepth on the Audacy app; leave us a review & rate on Apple Podcasts, too! Have a topic or story you want us to go InDepth about? Tweet us at @wbbmpodcasts
In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v Wade, Chicago ignited in protests. WBBM Newsradio hears from abortion-rights advocates shocked at the ruling, as well as opponents of abortion who embraced it.
April 13, 2022 marks the 30th anniversary of one of the most bizarre incidents in Chicago history. A construction mishap in the Chicago River sent water cascading through the old freight tunnel system and into the basements of Loop office buildings. The disaster was later known as the Great Chicago Flood. WBBM's Rob Hart looks back on that day through archival audio and an interview with local historian Bruce Moffat.
Today is opening day for the White Sox. It's also the 50th anniversary of a baseball season that transformed Chicago baseball and kept the White Sox in the windy city. WBBM's Rob Hart talks to John Owens and David Fletcher, authors of the new book "Chili Dog MVP: Dick Allen, the '72 White Sox, and a Transforming Chicago."
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It's been two years since the long shadow of COVID-19 fell on the world. On this special episode of WBBM In Depth, host Jill DeGroot sits down with WBBM political editor Craig Dellimore to talk about the pandemic in review.
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If you love WBBM In Depth, subscribe to our newest podcast Shades of the City! On the first episode: host Lauren Brown sits down with viral Tik Tok Chicago historian Shermann "Dilla" Thomas in his Auburn Gresham home to talk about his love for Chicago history and how he is educating the next generation.
Subscribe on the Audacy App: https://www.audacy.com/podcasts/shades-of-the-city-80552
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shades-of-the-city/id1609657633
It's Fat Tuesday! And here in Chicago it’s all about snagging some Paczki. Today on WBBM In Depth, we talk to Jennifer Billock, author of the book "Historic Chicago Bakeries," about the history of Paczki Day in Chicago. We hear from Joanelle and Fran Zawaski of Evergreen Park, a couple who has been baking Paczki for their community for over 20 years. And WBBM's Nancy Harty catches up with customers at the Oak Mill Bakery in Niles.
On today's In Depth, we bring you a round up of reports on the attack from WBBM Newsradio.
A six-year fight over equal pay between the US Soccer Federation and the US Soccer Women's National Team ended on Tuesday with a $24-million settlement and a promise by the federation to ultimately equalize pay between both the men’s and women’s national teams. Today we’re talking to Sandra Herrera, writer for CBS sports, about what this historic moment means for women’s sports going forward.
You can find Sandra Herrera, writer for CBS Sports, on Twitter: @SandHerrera_
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On this episode of the WBBM In Depth Podcast, WBBM's Brandon Ison reports from the Ukrainian National Museum in Chicago with a brief history on conflict between Ukraine and Russia, current civilian life in the country, desired outcomes from Ukraine’s perspective and the possible global consequences of further escalation. Also, a look at Ukraine's significant ties to the Chicago area and more.
Celebrated American composer of modern classical and avant-garde music, George Crumb, has died at the age of 92. Today we’re talking to Jennie Oh Brown, a Chicago-based professional flutist, chamber musician, and entrepreneur, about Crumb’s life, music, and legacy.
To listen to Jennie Oh Brown's album, Vox, visit: https://www.jenniebrownflute.com/recordings/vox/
The Illinois mask requirement will be lifted for most indoor public places as of Monday Feb. 28, if statewide COVID-19 metrics continue to plunge, Gov. JB Pritzker said Wednesday. Schools, nursing homes, hospitals, and public transportation mask mandates will not be lifted.
WBBM's Stephen Miller sits down with Director, Patrick Creadon and Narrator, Lucas Williamson to discuss their documentary The Loyola Project about the 1963 "Ramblers" men's basketball team.
The Chicago Bears have their new head coach. Matt Eberflus, who had been the defensive coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts, was hired on Thursday. Bears sideline reporter Mark Grote sat down with Colts writer JJ Stankevitz to learn more about the new Bears head man.
Multiple outlets have reported that the Chicago Bears will hire Kansas City Chiefs Executive Director of Player Personnel, Ryan Poles, as their next general manager. Jay Zawaski sits down with The Athletic's Kevin Fishbain to discuss the hire, and what's next for the Bears.
This afternoon, CDPH held a press conference to give an update on COVID-19 along side CDPH Medical Director and CPS CEO.
Gov. Pritzker also held a press conference to give an update on COVID-19 for all Illinois residents. For the latest stayed tuned to WBBM.
On today's In Depth, we spoke to WBBM's Bernie Tafoya about the CPS-CTU standoff and what's to come in the days ahead.
Stay tuned to WBBM for the latest on this developing story.
On today's episode of WBBM In Depth, Sports Director and morning sports anchor Josh Liss leads a roundtable discussion with the radio voices of the Chicago Bears, Jeff Joniak and Tom Thayer. The panel discusses the potential candidates to fill both the coach and GM roles, what traits the Bears should look for in potential candidates, and much more.
On Monday, the Chicago Bears announced the firing of general manager Ryan Pace and head coach Matt Nagy. Today, WBBM Managing Editor of Podcasts and Multimedia Jay Zawaski caught up with Bears sideline reporter Mark Grote to discuss the firings and what's coming next for the Bears.
On today's In Depth, Michael Phillips, American film critic for the Chicago Tribune discussed the life and legacy of actor Sidney Poitier.
Today, WBBM's Cisco Cotto talked to Claire Jerry, a Curator of Political History at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History about a project underway showing items left behind after the Jan. 6 insurrection such as posters, flags, bulletproof vests and more.
Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi remembers vividly the chaos at the Capitol on January 6, 2021- police officers banging on doors, a rush to evacuate, and unwavering adrenaline. Today, on the anniversary of the insurrection at the Capitol, WBBM's Political Editor Craig Dellimore speaks with Krishnamoorthi about where democracy stands one year later.
Illinois Democratic Congressman, Representative Bobby Rush, announced today that after over two decades of service, he will not run for re-election after the conclusion of his 15th term. Today In Depth host, Jill DeGroot, sat down with WBBM’s Political Editor Craig Dellimore to talk about Representative Rush's lasting legacy.
Today on In Depth, listen to anchor Pat Cassidy's final segment after two decades at WBBM newsradio and 51 years in radio.
WBBM’s Mike Ramsey reports: the New Year was less than two hours old when Chicago had its first murder victim in 1974. It would go on to be Chicago’s record year for murder.
Today WBBM In Depth host, Jill DeGroot, sits down with Mike Ramsey, WBBM Digital Content Producer, to discuss what 1974 may tell us about 2021.
To read Mike Ramsey's full story, click here.
Chicago Public Schools are supporting families during winter break by providing free breakfast and lunch meals. The Grab and Go meal distribution program is taking place across 70 different sites in the Chicago area. For more information visit cps.edu.
Today on WBBM In Depth: Illinois has reported about 12,330 new COVID-19 cases, the highest daily total in more than a year. Today Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced that effective January 3, 2022, proof of coronavirus vaccination will be required at restaurants, bars, gyms, and indoor venues.
On this episode of In Depth, Lisa Fielding talks to Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance about the Pretty Woman Musical and the art of songwriting.
Check out Pretty Woman this weekend at the CIBIC theatre.
For more conversations like this make sure you subscribe to Backstage Chicago on the Audacy app, Apple podcasts, or wherever you get podcasts.
A recent cluster of tornadoes across several states has leveled buildings, left many without heat and power, and has resulted in a climbing death toll, with the greatest loss of life in Kentucky. WBBM’s Terry Keshner spoke with Holly Baker, Communications Manager for the American Red Cross of Illinois, about their disaster relief efforts.
Friday morning the Supreme Court left in place Texas’ ban on most abortions, but ruled that clinics can sue over the state’s most restrictive abortion law in the nation. Today on WBBM In Depth, host Jill DeGroot sits down with Jennifer Welch, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Illinois, to discuss what the ruling means for them and other providers.
On today's In Depth: Carjackings have become a major problem here in Chicago. So far this year there have been over 1,900 carjackings and Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart is asking auto manufacturers for help. WBBM’s Rachel Pierson attended the press conference on anti-carjacking and joined us to discuss the Sheriff’s plans.
WWE has unveiled 15 college athletes who will be among the first to participate in the company’s newly formed Name, Image & Likeness program (dubbed Next In Line). Today on WBBM In Depth, we’re talking to Joe Spivak, football player from Northwestern University, who has been signed to WWE as part of this program.
On today's WBBM In Depth Podcast, Jay Zawaski discusses a wild week for the Notre Dame Football program with Nick Shepkowski, Managing Editor of the Fighting Irish Wire, part of the USA Today Network.
What will new head coach Marcus Freeman bring to the program? Can he talk it to levels Brian Kelly could not reach? Find out on the WBBM In Depth Podcast.
Audio courtesy of Notre Dame Football and Ryan Brandell
A school shooting at Oxford High School in Michigan has left four dead and others injured. The shooting suspect, identified today as 15-year-old student Ethan Crumbley, will be charged as an adult. On today's WBBM In Depth, we follow Detroit's WWJ Newsradio 950's coverage of the story.
The spread of a new coronavirus variant Omicron in South Africa has U.S. health officials calling on residents to continue following protocols to prevent the spread of infection. Many officials say that it won’t be long before we see it here in Chicago. This afternoon, the Chicago Department of Public Health held a press conference where CDPH commissioner Dr. Arwady discussed the omicron variant and more updates on COVID-19.
Stephen Sondheim, American composer/lyricist and Broadway legend, has died at the age of 91. Today on WBBM In Depth, host Jill DeGroot sits down with Chris Jones, Chief Theater Critic and Editorial Page Editor at the Chicago Tribune, to talk about Sondheim's life, legacy, and impact on Chicago and beyond.
On what would of been Minnie Miñoso's 96th birthday, the White Sox celebrated the life and legacy of the baseball titan who broke the color barrier in Chicago. On today's WBBM In Depth, host Jill DeGroot talks with reporter Rob Hart who covered the story.
Black Friday is different this year. With supply chain issues, shipping delays, and an ongoing pandemic, what can shoppers expect? Today host Jill DeGroot talks to Chicago-based business reporter Jennifer Waters to find out.
As the number of COVID-19 cases begin to rise in Illinois and across the country we wanted to learn more about how families can gather safely this holiday season. Today, we spoke with Dr. Ngozi Ezike, Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health about how we can protect our loved ones this Thanksgiving.
Last year, due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases, schools shut down and began remote learning. During that time students missed out on social activities, companionship, and extracurricular activities. We spoke with Jamila Lyons, a licensed professional counselor and behavior therapist about the uptick in school fights and behavior challenges since the return to in person learning.
What was supposed to be a holiday celebration turned to tragedy Sunday afternoon in Waukesha, Wisconsin, a suburb outside of Milwaukee, when an SUV drove into a crowd of people during the city’s annual holiday parade. As of now at least five people are dead and over 40 injured. On today's In-Depth we speak to Eliza Schefus, a Waukesha native who attended the parade with her mom, boyfriend, and three kids.
After three-and-half days of deliberation, the 12-person jury in the Kyle Rittenhouse murder trial announced a verdict of not guilty on all 6 charges. On today's WBBM In Depth, we hear from Richard Kling, Clinical Professor of Law at the Chicago–Kent College of Law, legal analyst Irv Miller, and Dr. Joseph Flynn of Northern Illinois University to get reactions to the verdict.
With the COVID-19 pandemic came rising levels of unemployment and food insecurity throughout the city of Chicago, and with just a week left until Thanksgiving Day, today we're talking to Jim Conwell, Senior Director of Marketing and Communications at the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity in Chicago, please visit: https://www.chicagosfoodbank.org/
As we await the verdict in the Kyle Rittenhouse murder trial, WBBM In Depth host Jill DeGroot sits down with the Chicago Tribune's Stacy St. Clair, who breaks down the details of the trial, highlights key moments, and provides her perspective on what comes next as the jury deliberates.
Due to financial strain and a lawsuit filed by The Bakery and Confectionery Union and Industry International Pension Fund, the Bridgeport Bakery has closed the doors of its brick-and-mortar location. Today on WBBM In Depth, host Jill DeGroot talks to Bridgeport Bakery owner, Can Lao, about the future of the bakery.
To support the Bridgeport Bakery:
The Bridgeport Bakery GoFundMe page
To make a made-to-order Bridgeport Bakery purchase, please email:
bridgeportbakeryorder@gmail.com
In the wake of the Astroworld Festival tragedy in Houston that resulted in at least 9 deaths and hundreds of injuries, many are asking was this preventable? And how do we make sure this doesn’t happen again? Today host Jill DeGroot talks to crowd management expert Paul Wertheimer, CEO and founder of Crowd Management Strategies, who shares his expertise and techniques for surviving crowd crush.
On today's WBBM In Depth host Jill DeGroot talks to WBBM reporter Brandon Ison about the local care workers rally that took place at Federal Plaza, as Congress prepares to vote on President Biden's Build Back Better Act next week.
On today's WBBM In Depth: host Jill DeGroot talks to WBBM reporter Bernie Tafoya about the federal infrastructure bill, and what changes the $17 billion in funding will bring to Illinois.
Today on WBBM In Depth: host Jill DeGroot talks to WBBM reporter Lisa Fielding about the Tellin’ Tales Theatre, the only mixed ability theatre group in the Chicagoland area, and their 25th-anniversary virtual show, Six Stories Up in Defiance – A Video Game Musical.
Today on WBBM In Depth: host Jill DeGroot talks to WBBM reporter Ascha Lee about the growing sexual misconduct scandal in the Chicago Park District’s beaches and pools unit.
Children ages 5 to 11 are now eligible to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Now what? WBBM In Depth host Jill DeGroot sits down with WBBM reporter Rachel Pierson to talk about the vaccine rollout for kids.
The Kyle Rittenhouse trial began Tuesday morning with opening statements. WBBM's Mike Krauser and Jay Zawaski get you up-to-date on the trial so far, and what's on the horizon, on this episode of WBBM In Depth.
With Halloween weekend approaching, WBBM In-Depth Host Jay Zawaski sits down with Shannon Blum, WBBM Senior Digital Content Producer, to talk all things spooky happening around Chicagoland. Shannon also got a chance to speak with Paul Siegel, owner of Statesville Haunted Prison, about the attraction's last scare season after 25 years.
Halloween is this Sunday! WBBM’s Rob Hart had the chance to chat with one of the area’s premiere pumpkin carving artists, Kelley Cappell from Geneva. Kelley offers her advice on how to best carve your pumpkins and explains how she got her start as a pumpkin artist. If you want to go see Kelley's art, you can visit her display at 723 Lexington Drive in Geneva. Her hours are Sunday through Thursday from 6pm-9pm and Friday and Saturday from 6pm-10pm through October 31st.
On Tuesday, the law firm of Jenner and Block revealed the results of their sexual assault investigation of former Blackhawks Video Coach Bradley Aldrich. As a result of their findings, General Manager and President of Hockey Operations Stan Bowman resigned his position. Senior Vice President of Hockey Operation Al MacIsaac is also no longer part of the organization.
The fallout doesn't end there. According to the report, former Hawks Head Coach Joel Quenneville, currently the coach of the Florida Panthers, was aware of the incident, as was Winnipeg Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff, who was also with the Blackhawks in 2010.
WBBM's Jay Zawaski shares the latest on the story.
In 2019 the Cook County Sheriff’s Office and the DNA Doe Project began working together to try to name Gacy’s remaining unidentified victims. They began with Victim #5 who has now been identified, through genetic genealogy, as North Carolina man Francis Wayne Alexander. Today we’re talking to WBBM reporter Steve Miller about how DNA and genealogy may help name other Jane and John Does.
Earlier today, Governor Pritzker met with the media, detailing the state's COVID-19 vaccine rollout plan for kids 5 to 11 years old. Jay Zawaski sits down with WBBM's Rachel Pierson to discuss the pediatric vaccine rollout.
William Crain is getting belated recognition for helming a pair of 'Blaxploitation' horror movies in the 1970s. He's traveling to Chicago this month to screen a print of 'Dr. Black, Mr. Hyde' at the Music Box Theatre. He talks in advance with WBBM Newsradio's Mike Ramsey.
109 years, many books, and a two billion dollar movie later, historians continue to find new facts about the sinking of the RMS Titanic. WBBM's resident Titanic geek Rob Hart talks to the author of a new book who claims that the sinking of the Titanic was the first breaking news event that people could follow in real time.
WBBM's Terry Keshner interview's three of Chicago's foremost authorities on the Great Chicago Fire on the 150th anniversary of the disaster.
Cisco Cotto hosts the latest coronavirus edition of the WBBM In Depth podcast, which looks at some of the latest complications caused by the disease.
Jennifer Keiper hosts the latest coronavirus edition of the WBBM In Depth podcast, which includes a look at some of the unusual types of vacations some people are taking during the pandemic.
WBBM Newsradio's Jennifer Keiper hosts the latest coronavirus edition of the In Depth podcast, which looks at Chicago's new self-quarantine order for people coming in from COVID hotspot states and other topics.
Ron Gleason hosts the latest coronavirus edition of the WBBM In Depth podcast. This week: plans to reopen Illinois schools and prices unveiled for COVID-19 drug Remdesivir.
Cisco Cotto examines the latest developments in the coronavirus pandemic in the latest edition of the WBBM In Depth podcast.
WBBM Newsradio's Cisco Cotto hosts the latest edition of the WBBM In Depth podcast, which looks at the continuing impact of the novel coronavirus on several industries.
WBBM In Depth looks at some of the latest angles in the continuing COVID-19 crisis. Cisco Cotto talks with a variety of experts.
WBBM Newsradio's Cisco Cotto takes a deep dive into the COVID-19 outbreak that has changed life for everyone.
The latest edition of WBBM In Depth covers the newest angles in the fight against COVID-19. Cisco Cotto reports.
How long can the U.S. economy and consumers and others hold out? WBBM Newsradio's Jennifer Keiper takes a look at the latest issues surrounding COVID-19.
WBBM Newsradio's Cisco Cotto assembles key updates in the U.S. and Chicago response to COVID-19.
WBBM In Depth takes a fresh look at the worsening coronavirus epidemic. Cisco Cotto hosts.
WBBM Newsradio's Cisco Cotto takes an updated look at recreational marijuana in Illinois.
Coronavirus has largely been contained in China, but fears about the potentially fatal organism have taken hold in Chicago. WBBM Newsradio's Cisco Cotto reports.
WBBM Newsradio's Cisco Cotto and Jennifer Keiper talk about what's new at this year's Chicago Auto Show.
This edition of the WBBM In Depth podcast looks at high water levels in Lake Michigan and the erosion that has impacted the shoreline. Cisco Cotto hosts.
The potentially deadly Coronavirus, which originated in China, already has a toehold in the United States. What is the virus and what can we expect? Cisco Cotto talks with experts on the WBBM In Depth podcast.
The Chicago Bears are moving preseason training back to Halas Hall after nearly two decades in Bourbonnais. What will the effects be? Cisco Cotto hosts the WBBM In Depth podcast.
Proponents and opponents of red-light cameras weigh in on the unpopular traffic devices. Cisco Cotto hosts the WBBM In Depth podcast.
The state of Illinois gambling landscape is changing rapidly, with new casinos authorized and legalization of sports betting. Cisco Cotto hosts the WBBM In Depth podcast.
From a new Chicago mayor to a celebrity's allegedly faked hate crime to an alligator in a lagoon, 2019 was a memorable year. The WBBM In Depth podcast takes a look.
Pat Brophy, director of spirit sales at Binny's Beverage Depot in Chicago, talks about festive adult drinks we all can enjoy. It's the latest WBBM In Depth podcast.
A look at the complications that will come with the legalization of recreational cannabis in Illinois. Part 2 of a special WBBM In Depth podcast.
On Jan. 1, Illinois joins the ranks of states that allow adults to buy recreational marijuana. To say there will be growing pains is probably an understatement. Cisco Cotto hosts WBBM In Depth, a new podcast.
The seismic shift continues in the Chicago Police Department, with this week's firing of retiring superintendent Eddie Johnson. Cisco Cotto looks at the challenges ahead for the embattled agency in the WBBM In Depth podcast.