Chicago’s daily news podcast, fresh every weekday at 6 a.m. Host Jacoby Cochran brings you timely conversations with news and culture makers; activists and artists; bus drivers and students; those who love and hate this place—all in 15 minutes a day. It’s a smart and delightful new way to connect with the city we share. Learn more and subscribe to our morning newsletter at citycast.fm/chicago.
Listeners of City Cast Chicago that love the show mention: local news, start the day, lens, complicated, way to start, much needed, warm, great way, coverage, great host, loves, informed, morning, outstanding, daily, voices, issues, beautiful, culture, living.
The City Cast Chicago podcast is a refreshing and informative way to stay connected to the city of Chicago. Hosted by Jacoby Cochran, this podcast provides concise and interesting news updates, as well as engaging interviews with residents of the city. It offers a unique perspective on local stories that may not be making headlines in mainstream media.
One of the best aspects of The City Cast Chicago podcast is its ability to connect listeners to the city they love. It covers stories that are important to residents and provides a broadening of perspectives on Chicago. The hosts and production team have their finger on the pulse of the city, delivering vibrant portrayals of life in Chicago. It's a great way to start the morning and feel connected to the community.
However, one potential drawback of this podcast is that it may not appeal as much to non-residents or those unfamiliar with Chicago. While it provides an authentic representation of the city, some listeners outside of Chicago may find it less relatable or engaging. Additionally, since it focuses on local stories, listeners who prefer more national or international news coverage may not find this podcast as appealing.
In conclusion, The City Cast Chicago podcast is a fantastic resource for residents looking for short and entertaining morning updates on their city. It offers a personal and intimate lens into local stories that are important but may not make national news. Host Jacoby Cochran brings a genuine enthusiasm and curiosity to each episode, making it an enjoyable listen. Whether you're a longtime resident or just curious about life in Chicago, this podcast is worth checking out.
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Just in time for Black Doula Day, the kick off to Black Maternal Health Week, the Chicago South Side Birthing Center broke ground this week in South Chicago. The new maternal and reproductive health care center is expected to assist in over 220 births annually once it opens in late 2027. Block Club Chicago's Atavia Reed and Francia Garcia Hernandez are here with the latest details. Plus, the state's attorney office won't drop a murder charge in a case advocates say is self-defense, Chicago wants more students at the library, and Spend in the Black brings thousands to 75th street. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 10 episode: Enjoy Illinois Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
The trial against the Broadview Four, a group of high-profile protesters arrested and charged with conspiracy back in September, is set to begin in May. This week a federal judge ruled there was no evidence that the Trump administration was politically influencing the case. We're sitting down with freelance journalist Corli Jay and contributor Leigh Giangreco. Plus, farmers market vendors are managing rising costs, and we want to know your go to karaoke song.Good News: Poetry of Place and Resistance and Bilingual Poetry WorkshopWant some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter.Follow us @citycastchicagoYou can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246Learn more about the sponsors of this April 9 episode: Enjoy Illinois Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Chicago.Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Earlier this week, the Chicago Sky traded All-Star forward Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream for two future first-round picks. Following the departure of yet another star player, fans are wondering if Chicago is losing its chance to be a marquee WNBA destination. City Cast Chicago contributor Brandon Pope and musician Al Scorch join us today to discuss. Plus, 90-year-old venue The Hideout has a new owner, Jackson Park's cherry blossoms are blooming, and we've got new music for you! Chicago Music: Charles Joseph Smith, Rami Gabriel, Heavy Crownz, Ravyn Lanae, Al Scorch's Big Fantastical Residency If you enjoyed today's interview with The Other Art Fair, Global Fair Director, Nicole Garton, learn more here. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 8 episode: Enjoy Illinois Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
In April 1926, Route 66 received its iconic number. The so-called Mother Road takes you all the way to California, but it begins in Chicago. (Now at Navy Pier!) In celebration of 100 years, we're revisiting our little road trip from last year. Host Jacoby Cochran hopped in the car with Dario Durham and Sara Faddah, hosts of 77 Flavors, to drive the Chicago leg of old Route 66. Along the way, they pointed out favorite attractions, spots to eat, and saw the city from a new perspective. Good News: Karaoke Storytellers Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 7 episode: Enjoy Illinois Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
At the end of March, Chicago's Housing Authority board voted 7-2 to appoint a new CEO. CHA has been without a permanent CEO since former leader Tracy Scott resigned in November, 2024. Mayor Brandon Johnson may legally challenge this decision after replacing the board chair and arguing the selection violated state law. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran are breaking down the latest details. Plus, American Airlines is offering bus connections from regional airports to O'Hare, and the Blackhawks extend their playoff drought to six seasons. Good News: ‘safronia' at Lyric Opera If you enjoyed today's interview with Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau President/CEO, Cory M. Jobe, supporting Enjoy Illinois, learn more here. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 6 episode: Enjoy Illinois Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
While both Chicago and Denver have a professional Women's Soccer team (go Stars!), Denver is only the second city in the U.S. to build a stadium specifically for women's soccer. Will betting on women's sports drive Denver's economy or will Denverites be left paying the price for another stadium? City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Denver podcast host Bree Davies about why Denver has invested so much into having sports downtown, how Denver has capitalized on repurposing old industrial spaces, and how bad traffic gets when all your sports are downtown. Plus, is it better to have a Mayor with or without aims for a greater political office? Mentioned on the show: The $tadium Game: Inside the lucrative world of Colorado's pro sports stadiums [The Denver Post] Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
Chicagoans are still asking if the feds will return to the city after Operation Midway blitz. WBEZ's Curious City recently tackled whether the federal presence here constituted martial law. We are joined by WBEZ's Erin Allen and Mike Davis. Plus, boos rain down at the Jeffs, and an international student's attempt to run every Chicago street hits a major roadblock. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 3 episode: The Other Art Fair Steppenwolf Theatre Window Nation Chicago Architecture Center Walking Tours Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Why are immigration court watchers in Chicago struggling to observe virtual hearings? Will Illinois regulate rapidly growing prediction markets? And what are the best burgers in the city? Executive producer Simone Alicea, contributor Leigh Giangreco, and host Jacoby Cochran dive into these stories. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 2 episode: The Other Art Fair Steppenwolf Theatre Window Nation Chicago Architecture Center Walking Tours Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
April showers are here, but luckily we've got your guide to what's happening in Chicago this month — rain or shine. Host Jacoby Cochran is with executive producer Simone Alicea and City Cast Chicago contributor Brandon Pope have events to look forward to, tips for April, and news stories to watch. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 1 episode: The Other Art Fair Steppenwolf Theatre Window Nation Chicago Architecture Center Walking Tours Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Chicago has a new working group looking into proactive rental inspections and creating a registry of apartment owners. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea explain how we got here and how the moves could help renters. Plus, the Fighting Illini are in the Final Four, and y'all have thoughts on AI and robots. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 31 episode: The Other Art Fair Steppenwolf Theatre Window Nation Chicago Architecture Center Walking Tours Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
The Chicago school board seems to have its pick for permanent CPS CEO, finally… and it's interim CEO Macquline King. Ahead of the board's meeting this morning, host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea take us through how we got here. Plus, the mayor of Broadview is calling on the feds to close the ICE facility there and reimburse the village for costs incurred during Operation Midway Blitz. We're also discussing the rise of Nashville hot chicken in Chicago. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 30 episode: The Other Art Fair Steppenwolf Theatre Window Nation Chicago Architecture Center Walking Tours Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
More affordable housing is needed in places like Chicago. Some cities, however, are doing better than others at meeting this need. Austin, Texas, for example, is building more affordable housing than any other American city right now — 50% more, by some measures, than the second most successful city. However, this fast-growing city is also seeing a shortage in housing that middle- and lower-income residents can afford. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Austin podcast host Nikki DaVaughn about this paradox, the city's affordable housing successes, and where Austin's still falling short. Plus, how far is too far to walk to a neighbor's house? Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
The Chicago Police Department has been under a federal consent decree, required to “change the way it trains, supervises and disciplines officers,” for seven years. Since it was introduced, CPD has reached full compliance with just 22% of mandates and has yet to implement a new system that tracks misconduct allegations. We are joined by WTTW's Heather Cherone and Block Club Chicago's Manny Ramos. Plus, West Suburban Hospital is temporarily closing its doors today, Lincoln Park has a new baby rhino, and Happy Birthday, Mama T! Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 27 episode: The Other Art Fair Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Alpha Academy, a private school that operates teacherless classrooms with AI-developed lesson plans and curricula, is coming to Chicago next fall. And we have questions and thoughts. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea break down the latest details. Plus, what's going on with the delivery robots crashing into bus shelters, and is there anything we'd rather talk about than all things AI? Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 26 episode: The Other Art Fair Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
What is ICE actually doing at the airport? According to some reports, scrolling their phones and chatting with currently unpaid TSA agents. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea are talking about what this means for travelers and how to help TSA agents currently working unpaid due to the partial government shutdown. They also discuss the stalemate in City Council's zoning committee, and Simone gives Jacoby a rat quiz.Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter.Follow us @citycastchicagoYou can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246Learn more about the sponsors of this March 25th episode:Access Contemporary MusicThe Other Art FairBecome a member of City Cast Chicago.Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Joliet has approved a 795-acre data center project even as state lawmakers consider stricter regulations. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea discuss Illinois' great data center debate. They've also got tips for C2E2 this weekend, and you've got thoughts on Portillo's, weather prep, and loose eggs. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 24th episode: Access Contemporary Music The Other Art Fair Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Even without facing a primary opponent, Gov. JB Pritzker seems to be coming out on top in Illinois politics. Host Jacoby Cochran, executive producer Simone Alicea, and contributor Leigh Giangreco discuss Pritzker's apparent new role as kingmaker. They also discuss expected delays at O'Hare and revisiting our favorite breakfast sandwiches — including Leigh's flaming hot take on eggs. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 23rd episode: Access Contemporary Music The Other Art Fair Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
The unionization efforts of sex workers in Nevada might have implications for gig workers in Chicago. At Sheri's Ranch, a legal brothel 45 minutes outside Las Vegas, some of the workers are seeking both recognition as employees and union representation. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with former City Cast Las Vegas podcast host, current contributor, and longtime Nevada attorney Dayvid Figler about why sex workers are considered independent contractors, what sparked this legal battle, and what happens if they win. Plus, what's different about neighborhoods in Las Vegas? Mentioned on the show: Could a Pahrump Brothel Union Set a New National Standard for Labor Laws? (City Cast Las Vegas) Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
Back in 2023, Chicago's city council voted to gradually raise the subminimum wage for tipped workers every July for five years until it matched the city's full minimum wage in 2028. Now the city council has voted to freeze the annual increases. We are joined by the Tribune's Jake Sheridan and the Reader's Katie Prout to discuss Mayor Johnson's plan to veto the vote. Plus, why did the city clear another encampment in Legion Park during the coldest week of the month, and how much did outside funding impact primary results? Good News: West Town Restaurant Week Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 20 episode: Access Contemporary Music Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
This March feels like Chicago can't make up its mind about what season it is. It can go from low 60s and sunny to low 20s and snowing — sometimes in just a day. That's why the City Cast Chicago team is giving their pro-tips to survive those Chi days when all four seasons come to play. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
The results are in! Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea break down who won and who lost on primary day in Illinois, including the closely watched Senate race, congressional contests, and county elections. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
It's primary election day! But did you know it's also election day tomorrow? CPS families, teachers, students, and neighbors can cast a vote for their local school councils. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea are breaking down some county races, what LSCs do, and they're planning their ideal Ravinia picnics. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Campaign fundraising, super PAC spending, and where candidates are getting their money has been hotly debated this election season. Senate candidate and U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi is the nation's second-highest fundraising federal candidate. City Cast contributor Leigh Giangreco and Block Club Chicago's Maxwell Evans dive into how the congressperson amassed such a massive bankroll. Plus, we check in on restoration efforts at Morgan Shoal on the South Side, and host Jacoby Cochran asks: Where would you host your political photo-op? Good News: Asian Pop Up Cinema 20th Year Anniversary Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Chicagoans are concerned about police accountability, especially with the increased presence of federal troops in many cities. DC Council in Washington recently passed emergency legislation requiring local police to release body-worn camera footage of incidents involving federal forces they patrol with, and to collect the names of federal officers who make arrests. It's a big shift in local policy, partially motivated by the fact that local cops have damaged their reputation by patrolling with feds. City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran talks with City Cast DC podcast co-host and executive editor Mike Schaffer about the political stakes involved, the effectiveness of body cameras, and how Washingtonians are dealing with the heavy federal law enforcement presence. Plus, Mike and Jacoby weigh in on public transit etiquette in their cities when it comes to people playing music out loud. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email us now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
Primary election day is Tuesday. Of the many races we're watching, we're diving a little deeper into the open race for the 7th Congressional District. Jessica Mordacq with Austin Weekly News and Forest Park Review has been profiling the candidates. She joins host Jacoby Cochran and freelance reporter Brandon Pope to talk about what she's learned, plus the new CTA safety plan, what's happening for St. Paddy's Day weekend, and Oscars buzz. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Acting head of Chicago Animal Care and Control, Susan Cappello, has been leading the department for three years and is Mayor Brandon Johnson's pick for the permanent role. But her appointment has been met with vehement opposition from shelter volunteers and others in the animal care community. Ahead of an expected confirmation vote next week, host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea break down the controversy. Plus, why so many Chicago breweries are closing and digging into Chicago's lack of public bathrooms. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Why is Chance the Rapper and his former manager facing off in court? How are the city's independent music venues performing financially? What Chicago music are you listening to currently? We've got freelance music journalist Britt Julious and co-founder of Real Ones Ben Moskow with us to break down these questions. Good News: Andersonville Restaurant Week Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Once again, Illinois lawmakers are weighing whether to allow school districts to pay board members. Remember, Chicagoans will elect the entire CPS school board in November for the first time. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea weigh in on the debate. Plus, the entire City Cast Chicago team joins to discuss the Portillo's national expansion and Simone's first-ever visit to the beloved franchise. Good News: Early Voting at Chicago Universities Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Which companies, super PACs, and industries are pumping the most money into our local elections? What sites made Preservation Chicago's “Most Endangered Buildings” list? Host Jacoby Cochran is joined by executive producer Simone Alicea and contributor Leigh Giangreco to discuss, including what some of their favorite springtime parks across the city. Good News: Poet Laureate Celebration and Rooted and Radical Youth Poetry Finals Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Homelessness is one of the major issues that cities like Chicago are trying to solve. The state of Utah is planning to build a 16-acre homeless campus on the outskirts of Salt Lake City, where unhoused people with mental illnesses or addiction issues could be sheltered and in some cases involuntarily committed. This controversial idea is the brainchild of conservative think tanks, and it's one that's very much being embraced by the Trump administration and the Utah legislature. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Salt Lake podcast host Ali Vallarta about how this plan is meant to work, the concerns about forced institutionalization, and why the state is pushing for this even though it goes against the recommendations of local experts and service providers. Mentioned on the show: Interrogating Controversial Homeless Policy Proposals (City Cast Salt Lake) Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
How close is the school board to selecting a permanent CPS CEO? Will the Aspira Charter network remain open through the school year? How are students reacting to ongoing DEI rollbacks across the University of Illinois system? Host Jacoby Cochran is joined by Chalkbeat Chicago's Reema Amin and Chicago Reader's Devyn-Marshall Brown to answer these questions and more. Plus, have you checked out the Chicago Reader's Best of 2025 winners? Check out the best sober-focused music series and the best new club for queer and trans people getting started with strength training. Good news: DMB & The Etymology, Chicago Printmakers Collaborative, Miyagi Records Yard Sale Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 6 episode: Access Contemporary Music - Use promo code PIANO for 20% off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Earlier this week, the Chicago Fire officially broke ground on the city's first new stadium development in over 30 years. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea discuss how neighbors are responding and the timeline for the 78 megadevelopment. Plus, they're looking at proposed People's Gas rate hikes and some of Chicago's most iconic neon signs (and why there are fewer of them these days). Good news: LGBTQ Lunar New Year Dinner, Haymarket Sausage Fest, and Chicago Palestine Film Festival Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 5 episode: Access Contemporary Music - Use promo code PIANO for 20% off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
A Northwest Side charter network, an iconic South Side cleaners, and a North Side art museum all announced closures in recent weeks. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran dive into the details. Plus, attack ads are picking up in primary races, and Amazon delivery drones are coming to Chicago's south suburbs. Good News: Women in Dance Festival, Farmdega at Monday coffee, 312 All Star Basketball Tournament, Winter Walk & Bonfire Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 4 episode: Access Contemporary Music – Use promo code PIANO for 20% off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
There has been a lot of headlines in recent months about crime on the CTA following high profile incidents in late 2025, ongoing tension with the feds over the presence of cops on public transit, and an overall feeling that even after improvements in hirings and wait times, CTA still has a lot to do concerning rider experience and safety. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran are discussing recent public transit crime statistics. Plus, the city council is proposing a new tourism improvement district, and listeners have thoughts on Waymo in Chicago. Good News: Annual Chicago Birthday Party Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 3 episode: Access Contemporary Music – Use promo code PIANO for 20% off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
March in Chicago means heading to the voting booth, dying the river green, and trying to stay optimistic about spring weather. Host Jacoby Cochran is joined by newsletter editor Emmi Mack and creator Paige Serena to talk about St. Patrick's Day plans, even more restaurant weeks, and where to find pepper-and-egg sandwiches during Lent. Good News: Thalia Hall Free for All Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 2 episode: Access Contemporary Music — Use promo code PIANO for 20% off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
A lot of cities, including Chicago, are trying to figure out how best to revitalize downtown. It's an issue that's especially top of mind for Pittsburgh, who is hosting the NFL Draft in April. To solve the problem of vacant properties and empty storefronts, the city is trying out a new rent abatement program. So, City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Pittsburgh podcast host Megan Harris about why their downtown emptied out, whether this program will bring new businesses downtown for the long-term, and other revitalization plans that are in the works. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
Why are fewer than half of the county judicial races in this year's primary elections uncontested? Where are Rev. Jackson's homegoing services being held in Chicago? What's going on with that fleet of Waymo cars parked in a downtown parking garage? We're answering these questions and more with freelance writer Natalie Christian-Frazier and Block Club Chicago's Jamie Nesbitt Golden. Plus, we are showing love to Kennedy-King's iconic radio station, North Lawndale's Peace Runners 773, and Englewood's Girl Scout troop. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 27 episode: Steppenwolf Theatre Griffin MSI Access Contemporary Music – Use promo code PIANO for 20% off South By Southwest – Unlock a 10% discount on your Innovation Badge when you use code citycast10 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
We're concluding this week's celebration of Chicago's Black history with something that may feel modern. Last fall, Chicago rapper femdot was professor Femi Adigun while teaching his course “Chicago Culture Through Hip Hop” at DePaul University. Host Jacoby Cochran sat down with him at the time to learn about his syllabus and how Chicago's history can be traced through rap music. Good News: Chinatown Community Foundation Lunar New Year Celebration Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 26 episode: Steppenwolf Theatre Griffin MSI South By Southwest — Unlock a 10% discount on your Innovation Badge when you use code citycast10 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Gospel music has roots in southern spirituals during slavery and migrated north during the Great Migration in the early 1900s. Chicago has staked its claim as the birthplace of modern gospel thanks to Bronzeville's Pilgrim Baptist Church and Thomas Dorsey, its choir director for 50 years. In 2022, we talked with writer and producer Stacy Robinson about the WTTW documentary “The Birth of Gospel” and Chicago's place in music history. Good News: The DuSable Museum - Black History Month Closeout Celebration Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 25 episode: Steppenwolf Theatre Griffin MSI South By Southwest – Unlock a 10% discount on your Innovation Badge when you use code citycast10 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
This week, we're exploring Chicago's contributions to Black history. That's why we're heading to the roller rink. Back in 2023, Chicago skating legend Theresa “Sweet T” Ferrell (aka Jacoby's mom) took us for a spin around MLK Roller Skating and Bowling Center in Auburn Gresham. She shared her 50 years of skating history, explained why Chicago skaters are the smoothest around, and gave executive producer Simone Alicea a quick lesson. Good News: “Still Searching” at Chicago Justice Gallery Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 24 episode: Steppenwolf Theatre Griffin MSI South By Southwest — Unlock a 10% discount on your Innovation Badge when you use code citycast10 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
It's the last week of Black History Month, so we're bringing you some of our favorite episodes about Chicago's contributions to Black history. In 2023, the Illinois Chapter of the Black Panther Party was listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the culmination of a yearslong effort to landmark a collection of sites associated with the Black Panthers. About a year before they won that historical recognition, host Jacoby Cochran talked with Leila Wills, executive director of the Historical Preservation Society of the Illinois Chapter of the Black Panther Party. They discuss where the Black Panthers worked in Chicago and about Wills' personal connection to the history as the daughter of party members. Good News: Rooted & Radical Youth Poetry Festival Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 23 episode: Steppenwolf Theatre Griffin MSI South By Southwest — Unlock a 10% discount on your Innovation Badge when you use code citycast10 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Everyone's talking about AI these days, including Chicagoans. And now, more data centers are popping up across the country, thanks in part to the AI revolution. But some cities are stemming the tide, including Madison, Wisconsin, who recently passed a one-year moratorium on new data center construction. City Cast CEO David Plotz feels strongly that this was the wrong choice! He's sitting down with City Cast Madison podcast host Bianca Martin to weigh the pros and cons of data centers, and debate the economic, ethical, and ecological considerations at the heart of this debate. Plus, David and Bianca share must-know tips for making it in Madison and DC. We also mentioned this City Cast Madison episode. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
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