Morning Shift Podcast

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A dynamic mix of news, culture and music in Chicago. Hosted by Jenn White. From WBEZ.

WBEZ Chicago


    • Jul 29, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 21m AVG DURATION
    • 3,079 EPISODES

    4.8 from 286 ratings Listeners of Morning Shift Podcast that love the show mention: wbez, jen white, wfh, local and national, 1a, new host, illinois, jenn, arts, city, coverage, timely, happening, public, state, informed, tune, politics, program, issues.


    Ivy Insights

    The Morning Shift Podcast is an absolute gem in the podcasting world. Each episode provides a refreshing and informative start to the day, covering a wide range of topics that are relevant and engaging. The hosts, Justin Kaufmann and Jen White, bring their expertise and unique perspectives to the table, making for an enjoyable listening experience.

    One of the best aspects of The Morning Shift is the wide array of topics covered. From local news and politics to arts and culture, the show offers something for everyone. The hosts bring in a diverse range of guests who provide insightful commentary and analysis on these subjects. Whether it's a deep dive into Chicago's education system or a thought-provoking discussion on racial inequality, every episode of The Morning Shift delivers thought-provoking content that keeps listeners engaged.

    Furthermore, Justin Kaufmann and Jen White excel at moderating conversations. They ask thoughtful questions, allowing guests to fully express their opinions and insights. Their interviewing style is conversational yet informative, creating an atmosphere where listeners feel like they're part of an engaging dialogue.

    However, one minor drawback of The Morning Shift is that it can sometimes feel rushed due to time constraints. Given that it is a morning news program with limited airtime, some discussions may not receive as much depth or exploration as desired. This can leave listeners craving more in-depth analysis on certain topics.

    In conclusion, The Morning Shift Podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to stay informed about current events in Chicago and beyond. With its diverse range of topics and top-notch hosting, this podcast brings valuable insights to its audience every day. If you're seeking engaging conversations with knowledgeable guests on important issues, give The Morning Shift Podcast a listen - you won't be disappointed!



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    Latest episodes from Morning Shift Podcast

    The Good, Bad, And Gassy Sides Of Taking Ozempic, Wegovy

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2026 36:00


    Sure, there are weight-loss success stories, but behind the scenes people are navigating insurance challenges, side effects, and the possibility of taking GLP-1 medications for life. For some people, they've been life-changing. For others, they are rethinking whether the drug is worth it. In the Loop talks with a panel of residents across the Chicago region about how these medications changed their health, their relationship with food, and the complicated decisions involved in taking or stopping GLP-1 drugs.GUESTS: Linda Nemec, Sleepy Hollow, Ill., residentDr. Ahsan Basha, oncologist, Edgewater residentBetsy Elsaesser, Logan Square residentFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Chicago Welcomes Belugas From Canada, But Not Without Concerns

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2026 30:00


    Four beluga whales are adjusting to life at the Shedd Aquarium after being moved from a defunct marine tourist attraction in Ontario, Canada, that had threatened to euthanize the sea mammals. The images of the whales have captured the hearts of many, but the move isn't without controversy. In the Loop hears the story of how the Canadian belugas came to be swimming in Chicago and why this is raising longstanding questions of what's in the best interest of whales in human care. GUESTS: Johnny Ford, vice president of communications, Shedd AquariumKaitlyn Mitchell, director of legal advocacy, Animal JusticeStefano Esposito, Chicago Sun-Times features reporterFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop. 

    Are Chicago's Sidewalks Accessible?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2026 33:53


    How difficult is it for people with mobility disabilities to navigate the city's sidewalks? This question is the center of a lawsuit against the City of Chicago, alleging a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA. The firm suing the city claims it has failed to maintain sidewalks leaving them inaccessible.As Disability Pride Month comes to a close, In the Loop brings together an attorney behind both the new and previous lawsuit, a plaintiff in the suit and a local advocacy group leader to hear just how accessible Chicago is.GUESTS: Rachel Weisberg, directing attorney at Disability Rights AdvocatesKevin Sullivan, plaintiff against the city, motivational speakerPeter Tucic, vice president of public policy at Chicago LighthouseFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop. 

    WBEZ's Weekly News Recap: July 24, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2026 49:17


    Chicago City Council has approved referendum questions for upcoming elections, three-time Stanley Cup champion Patrick Kane is returning to the Chicago Blackhawks on a two-year contract, and Chicago police have issued official guidelines on how officers should collect evidence against immigration agents suspected of violating laws.In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in the Weekly News Recap.GUESTS: Kim Bellware, freelance journalistRavi Baichwal anchor at ABC 7 NewsMary Norkol, Chicago Sun-Times reporter For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop. 

    Chicago Artists On How Public Housing Shaped Their Creativity

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2026 28:51


    The National Public Housing Museum is hosting the artwork of Nathaniel Mary Quinn, including a recreated Robert Taylor Homes living room he grew up in. Quinn's exhibit “A Love Letter to My Mother” explores the complexities of family, living in public housing, and love. In the Loop talks to artists from Chicago as they reflect how their time in public housing has shaped them and their work. GUESTS: Floyd Webb, filmmaker and producer, former resident of Harold L. Ickes HomesToni Asante Lightfoot, poet and creative writing instructor, former Hilliard Homes residentToya Wolfe, writer and author of Last Summer on State Street, former resident of Robert Taylor HomesTiff Beatty, associate director, National Public Housing MuseumFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop. 

    chicago creativity shaped loop love letters last summer my mother state street public housing national public housing museum chicago artists robert taylor homes nathaniel mary quinn
    A Cool 100 Years Of Rainbow Cone

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2026 26:42


    Chicago's summer staple is celebrating 100 years of deliciousness. Known for its layers of flavors, Rainbow Cone's ice cream stacks chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (vanilla with walnuts and cherries), pistachio and orange sherbet. In the Loop host Sasha-Ann Simons tries her first-ever Rainbow Cone and we dig into the iconic local brand's rich history. GUESTS: Lisa Shames, freelance reporterJohnny Buonavolanto, director of sales, The Buona CompaniesFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop. 

    Reducing Chicago's ‘Urban Heat Island' Effect

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2026 34:15


    Chicago can feel up to 8 degrees hotter than suburbs and rural areas because there are more buildings and asphalt and fewer plants to aid the natural process of keeping an area cool. Parts of the city with the least greenspace, tree canopy and more industry can be even hotter than the city average temperature. In the Loop explores  efforts by residents and officials to identify the city's hotter areas and help residents adapt to the extreme heat.GUESTS: Max Berkelhammer, professor, earth and environmental sciences UIC Lindy Wordlaw, Assistant Commissioner, Department of EnvironmentNedra Sims-Fears, executive director, Greater Chatham InitiativeFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop. 

    Storms And Flooding Are Only Getting Worse. Here's What You Can Do

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2026 33:00


    Flooding has persistently plagued Chicago, the city famously built on a swamp. However, as storms become more severe and more frequent, residents will likely have to deal with flooded basements, streets and other damage more often.  With climate change driving worsening weather, Chicagoans are rolling up their sleeves to prepare. In the Loop hears from local organizations working to make communities more flood-resilient.GUESTS: Zach Wirtz, director of the Chicago Region Trees Initiative, Morton Arboretum Nina Idemudia, CEO, Center for Neighborhood TechnologyBre'Shaun Reddick, Local Partnership Manager, Alliance for the Great Lakes For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop. 

    WBEZ's Weekly News Recap: July 17, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2026 50:04


    Chicago gets a one-two punch with another heat wave combined with dangerous air quality. A North Side Trader Joe's becomes the first of the grocery chain's Illinois locations to unionize. And the Shedd Aquarium agrees to take in abandoned beluga whales from a closed marine park in Canada. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in the Weekly News Recap.GUESTS: Carrie Shepherd, Axios Chicago reporter Quinn Myers, Block Club Chicago reporter covering Wicker Park, West Town & Bucktown Bob Herguth, Chicago Sun-Times investigative reporterFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop. 

    Ask The Mayor: July 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2026 46:13


    Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is once again in the hot seat, answering our questions – and yours – during our monthly public forum “Ask The Mayor.” For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop. 

    What Have We Learned About GLP-1s?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2026 34:25


    Weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy are one of the fastest growing pharmaceuticals. But as newer GLP-1 medications hit the market, questions remain about side effects, health equity and the cultural impact. On today's In the Loop, we ask: what have we learned so far about the popular drug? And how have GLP-1s changed the way we think about health and weight loss?GUESTS: Dr. Micah Eimer, cardiologist, clinical assistant professor of medicine in the division of cardiology at Northwestern University Feinberg SchoolDavid D. Kim, PhD, assistant professor of medicine and public health sciences at University of ChicagoRachelle Lacroix Mallick, registered dietician and nutritionist with a focus on reproductive healthFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Free-To-Play Pianos Are Popping Up Around Chicago

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2026 27:41


    What would you do if you noticed a piano sitting outside your favorite cafe, or walked past someone tickling the ivories as you left the grocery store? John McCarthy, founder of the nonprofit Chicago Plays, is betting people are likely to come together as a community alongside an impromptu and free public performance. Chicago Plays is spicing up the city's public spaces with free piano concerts courtesy of your own neighbors. In the Loop sits with the man behind the music. GUESTS: John McCarthy, founder, Chicago PlaysWon Kim, artist and chefFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Inside Illinois' Gambling Problem

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2026 33:52


    Illinois residents have lost nearly $8 billion gambling last year, according to a new report from the Illinois Answers Project. And for many, gambling is not easy to resist, thanks to the increase of slot machines in everyday establishments, new casinos, and mobile sports betting apps that puts the casino in people's pockets. In fact, more than one million Illinois adults either have a gambling addiction or are at risk of developing one.Who is losing the most money, and what is the state doing to help people at risk of addiction? In The Loop finds out more about what guardrails exist – or don't – when it comes to gambling in Illinois, and what state lawmakers are doing about it. GUESTS: Casey Toner, reporter, Illinois Answers Elizabeth Thielen, senior director at Nicasa Behavioral Health ServicesFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    WBEZ's Weekly News Recap: July 10, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2026 46:08


    The Federal appeals court in Chicago upholds Illinois' assault weapons ban one week after the U.S. Supreme Court agrees to consider a challenge to the ban in Cook County. Former Chicago mayor Rahm Emmanuel makes headlines after a controversial speech in Israel. Plus, the CTA says crime is down 30% percent over last year.In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in the Weekly News Recap.GUESTS: David Greising, president, Better Government AssociationOlivia Olander, state government reporter, Chicago TribuneMitch Armentrout, Chicago Sun-Times reporter covering government and politicsFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Trump Administration Wants Illinois To Foot Its Own Bill For SNAP Program

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2026 34:41


    The Trump Administration wants states to carry more of the financial burden of SNAP benefits, which were previously a federal obligation. For Illinois, that cost shift will begin in late 2028, with the state potentially having to shoulder upwards of $700 million to sustain SNAP benefits, raising concerns about the program's future. In the Loop talks about what exact changes the federal government wants, how it will impact states and SNAP recipients, and what lawmakers can do about it. GUESTS: Nolan Downey, senior director of policy, Greater Chicago Food Depository Carolyn Barnes, associate professor, Crown Family School at UChicago Illinois State Rep. Dagmara Avelar, (D-Bolingbrook)

    If It's Broke, Fix It: Repair Cafes Make Your Tech, Appliances Last Longer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2026 26:58


    We live in a world where replacing something is often quicker and easier than fixing it. Your coffee maker breaks? Buy a new one. Same thing for your busted laptop. But a growing movement is asking us to rethink that mindset. Enter: repair cafes. From Romeoville to Evanston, there are six repair cafés across the city and suburbs where volunteers help residents extend the shelf lives of their tech, appliances and other belongings. In the Loop learns more about how to take part, be more sustainable with your stuff, and save money. GUESTS: Maria Anna Rafac, Campus Sustainability Coordinator at Joliet Junior College Elyse Hoffenberg, Clerk of the Township of Lyons Amy Yee, Chicago Sun-Times economy and business reporter For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Chicago Is Making Sports More Accessible

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2026 35:11


    For some athletes, sports are about a lot more than winning. They're about finding community, building confidence and pushing yourself to new heights. Well, you could say that's what adaptive sports has done for athletes with disabilities. And now, competitors from the Chicago area are gearing up to join hundreds in the country's biggest multi-sport tournament for athletes with disabilities. We'll hear from a panel of veterans in the game about what the experience means to them – and how more Chicagoans can get involved.GUESTS: Jorge Alfaro, coach of Chicago Hornets, a wheelchair basketball teamDylan Sams, sports coordinator, Shirley Ryan AbilityLabLarry Labiak, disability policy officer, Chicago Park DistrictFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Rethinking Chicago's Next Big Infrastructure Project

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2026 29:34


    For its design competition “The Horizon Lines: Visions for Chicago 2050,” World Business Chicago asked residents to come up with some ideas on what Chicago's next big development should be. After nearly 200 submissions, six finalists have been selected and are now on display at the Chicago Cultural Center.In the Loop hears from three of the contest's judges on what new ideas they are excited about.GUESTS: Phil Clement, CEO of World Business ChicagoEleanor Gorski, CEO and President of Chicago Architecture CenterKenya Merritt, Commissioner of Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special EventsFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    WBEZ's Weekly News Recap: July 2, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2026 50:04


    Mayor Johnson wants to give Chicago renters new protections, Governor Pritzker issues a state disaster proclamation over extreme weather as the Chicago region remains under extreme heat warning. Plus, Police Superintendent Larry Snelling and Chicago FBI Chief DePodesta announce abrupt resignations.In the Loop breaks down those stories and more.GUESTS: Leigh Giangreco, freelance journalistRummana Hussain, Chicago Sun-Times opinion pages editor and columnist Shia Kapos, Politico reporter and author of Politico's Illinois Playbook newsletterFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Evanston Stands Firm As DOJ Attacks Its Reparations Program

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2026 34:40


    Evanston made history as the first city in the country to launch a local reparations program. Since then, the city has distributed more than $7 million to over 200 Black residents who are direct descendants of people harmed by housing discrimination.Now the federal government is putting its weight behind a lawsuit that claims Evanston's reparations program violates the 14th Amendment on the grounds of race discrimination. In the Loop hears from some of the architects of Evanston's program and a reparations recipient about the impact of the program on the community and why they say it's necessary. GUESTS: Mayor Daniel Biss, City of Evanston Robin Rue Simmons, chair of Evanston Reparations Committee; founder and executive director of FirstRepairKimberly Holmes-Ross, executive director of Evanston Cradle to Career; reparations recipientsFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    What's That Building: South Shore Cultural Center and Beach

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2026 18:10


    The South Shore Cultural Center is a 65-acre park on Chicago's South Side that includes a secluded beach, a golf course, tennis courts and a nature sanctuary. The park's showpiece is a Mediterranean Revival building set at the end of a long drive. Formerly known as the South Shore Country Club, the first building was constructed in 1906 and was modeled after a club in Mexico City. That structure, and additions that came after, still stand today. In The Loop's architecture critic takes us through the long storied history of the building, its preservation and the beach it sits on. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    WBEZ's Weekly News Recap: June 26, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2026 34:45


    After a violent weekend with eight killed and 40 injured, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson joins calls for the creation of a new Department of Gun Violence Reduction. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court strikes down Hawaii's restrictive gun law. And embattled U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros announces plans to review the work of a “Broadview Six” prosecutor going back to 2007. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more.GUESTS: Paris Schutz, NBC 5 political and investigative reporterMaxwell Evans, Block Club Chicago reporter Violet Miller, Chicago Sun-Times general assignment reporter Alma Campos, Chicago Sun-Times immigration reporterFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    The Impact Of The National Housing Bill On The Chicago Area

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2026 29:42


    Congress passed a bipartisan package that aims to boost homeownership across the country. The legislation would restrict investors from buying up single-family homes, remove regulatory barriers to construction and create more affordable housing. However, President Donald Trump refused to sign the bill until lawmakers first passed a controversial law imposing new restrictions on voter identification and mail-in ballots. In the Loop explores what the impact of the bill could look like in Chicago and Illinois. GUESTS: Bob Palmer, policy director, Housing Action Illinois Geoff Smith, executive director, Institute for Housing Studies at Depaul University Allison Clements, executive director, Illinois Housing Council For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Chicago Nurses Organize for Better Working Conditions And Patient Care

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2026 28:07


    Nurses everywhere are fed up. They're organizing and walking picket lines more than ever before. Here in the Chicago area, more than 2,000 of them have voted to unionize in just the last month. On today's In the Loop, we'll hear first-hand accounts from a couple of local nurses and a journalist who's been following their efforts. GUESTS: Jessica Ahn, registered nurse in the emergency department at Saint Mary of Nazareth Hospital Sarah Louise Dawson, registered nurse in medical ICU at Rush University Medical Center Kristen Schorsch, WBEZ public health and politics reporter For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Should Chicago Try Something New To Tackle Gun Violence?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2026 33:47


    Over the Juneteenth weekend, Chicago saw 8 people killed and almost 40 wounded from gun violence, including a drive-by mass shooting in Roseland. In response, community leaders gathered to push for a more prevention-focused strategy, and the creation of a Department of Gun Violence Reduction. While Chicago has seen a decrease in violent crime rates over the past several years, summer is typically when shootings surge. In the Loop discusses gun violence with local advocates to find out more about what effective prevention looks like. GUESTS: Emmanuel Andre, Chicago Deputy Mayor for Community Safety Sam Castro, Director of Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships, Institute for Nonviolence Chicago Cedric Hawkins, outreach supervisor, Chicago CRED For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Is Illinois a tornado capital? ‘We need to start treating this like we are in Tornado Alley'

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2026 33:41


    It's been 12 days since storms with derecho winds roiled through Chicago, taking down trees and knocking out power in its path. Chicagoans are still facing the consequences and picking up the pieces after their homes flooded. How are recovery efforts coming along, and what more do residents and businesses need to bounce back? We check in with both a resident and a business owner – as well as a meteorologist, to ask: was this a freak downpour or is this the new normal? GUESTS: Shavon Francis, owner of Fleurish Chicago Margery Scott, Greater Grand Crossing resident, CPS Vendor David Yeomans, meteorologist at CBS News Chicago For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    How To Celebrate Juneteenth In Chicago

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2026 11:48


    The U.S. has officially observed June 19 as a federal holiday for the last five years. Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people, and the end of slavery in the U.S. in 1865. Today on In the Loop, we hear about the Juneteenth celebrations and observance happening across the city this weekend, and discuss new traditions being created by communities in Chicago and beyond. GUESTS: Jahmal Cole, CEO and founder of My Block My Hood My City Tynnetta Qayim, COO, Black Ensemble Theater Katanya Raby, vice president of planning for Far South Community Development Corporation

    ceo chicago celebrate coo juneteenth loop black ensemble theater my block my hood my city
    WBEZ's Weekly News Recap: June 18, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2026 48:54


    No you're not seeing things – we're bringing you our Weekly News Recap a day early! Illinois Governor JB Pritzker promises to be “very involved” in the 2028 presidential election. A man accused of burning a cross in Grant Park faces hate crime and arson charges. The U.S. Department of Justice challenges Evanston's reparations program. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in our Weekly News Recap. GUESTS: Talia Soglin, Chicago Tribune transportation and labor reporter Lee Bey, Chicago Sun-Times architecture critic Justin Laurence, Crain's Chicago Business government and politics reporter For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Who Is Winning The Fight Around Book Bans?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2026 34:47


    What's behind the surge to try to ban books and what does it mean for readers? We tap in with a panel of experts, including an Illinois author whose children's book is banned from several shelves outside of the state. GUESTS: Veronica Arreola, author of the children's book “J Is for Justice” Emily Knox, interim dean and professor in the School of Information Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign Dan Montgomery, executive director, American Library Association Jarrett Dapier, author of the new graphic novel “Wake Now in the Fire” about censorship at CPS schools For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Housing In The Shadow Of The Obama Presidential Center

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2026 47:02


    Housing advocates have warned that the Obama Presidential Center could price out longtime residents. So far, the cost of single and multi-family homes in Woodlawn closest to the Obama Center have doubled since 2019, and less than a third of housing stock in the area was considered affordable. Also, the number of short-term rentals, like Airbnb, are increasing in the neighborhoods around the Presidential Center, which takes potential rental housing out of the market. In the Loop digs into how the city has fallen short of delivering on promises aimed at protecting residents from displacement, and how the growth of Airbnbs in the area is impacting affordability. GUESTS: Sidnee King Pineda, journalist, Illinois Answers Project Infiniti Gant, housing organizer, Southside Together Kristy Ramsey, Airbnb host, Woodlawn resident Cam Rodriguez, WBEZ data reporter Alexandra Salomon, WBEZ senior editor For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Monumental Works: The Story Of Art And Artists At The Obama Center

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2026 30:37


    Chicago is just days away from the grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park. And it's not just a museum or library, but also a home to a whole lot of art. Inside, outside, on the walls, IN the walls, overhead – and even the benches visitors will sit on. So who is this art for, and what message does it convey? In The Loop talks with three of the Chicago artists featured in the inaugural permanent collection at the Obama Presidential Center: visual artist Tyanna J. Buie, and muralists Dorian Sylvain and Sam Kirk. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    WBEZ's Weekly News Recap: June 12, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 49:08


    Chicago police investigate a cross burning and potential hate crime in Grant Park. Governor Pritzker says he's open to calling a special legislative session to reach a Bears stadium deal. Former Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel pedals presidential aspirations on a bike tour of New Hampshire. In the Loop breaks down those stories and much more with Axios' Carrie Shepherd, Chicago Tribune's Dan Petrella, and WBEZ's Alden Loury. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Chicago Needs Safer Streets For Cyclists And Pedestrians

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 32:35


    Biking advocate and Chicago Department of Transportation worker Riley O'Neil, 35, died on Friday, June 5, after he was hit with a car door and thrown into oncoming traffic. Since O'Neil's death, advocates are calling on the city to build more protected bike lanes to prevent fatal incidents like this one. In the Loop sits down with local organizers and cyclists — Charna Albert with Chicago, Bike Grid Now!, Kyle Lucas with Better Streets Chicago, and Jim Merrell with the Active Transportation Alliance — to discuss building safer streets in Chicago. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Blackhawks CEO Danny Wirtz, Residents Talk About What They Want To See For Chicago's West Side

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2026 46:54


    On today's In the Loop, Sasha sits down with Blackhawks CEO Danny Wirtz to talk about his work spearheading a multi-billion-dollar revamp of the area around the United Center. Plus, we'll hear more about the history of the West Side and how residents feel about the historic investment. Today's guests are: Danny Wirtz, Chairman and CEO of the Chicago Blackhawks; Marie Henderson, owner Out of The Past Records; Brian Ellison, board president of Garfield Park Community Council; and Ayesha Jaco, executive director of West Side United. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Local Queer Elders On LGBTQ+ Pride In 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 34:04


    The LGBTQ+ Intergenerational Dialogue Project and the Gerber/Hart LGBTQ Library and Archives are hosting a panel of elders who will share their slices of Chicago's queer history. In the face of federal attacks against the gay and trans community, hearing the stories from community leaders who helped pave the way for queer rights is more important than ever. To hear how queer elders are reflecting on Pride this year, In the Loop sits down with Karen Morris, co-founder of the LGBTQ+ Intergenerational Dialogue Project; Equality Illinois' Norma Seledon and queer elder history panelist Jay Myers. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Plot Twist: Bears Take Serious Step Toward Indiana

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 31:15


    Is Indiana the inevitable new home for the Bears, or is the leap toward Hammond just a stealthy negotiation tactic to put pressure on Illinois? The team announced Friday that its board of directors has voted to push forward with developing a stadium in Hammond, Ind., even though an exact site has not been selected yet. So are Chicago and Arlington Heights really out of the running? Will the fans follow the team to Hammond? How did we get here? In The Loop digs in. Our panel today: Indiana State Rep. Earl Harris, Jr.; Cheryl Raye-Stout, WBEZ sports contributor; Prof. Deborah Carroll, director, UIC's Government Finance Research Center. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    WBEZ's Weekly News Recap: June 5, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 49:42


    ICE agents sparked chaos in Chicago's Albany Park neighborhood, crashing into a woman's car and threatening residents as they chased and detained a man. Media outlets got a preview of the Obama Presidential Center campus. Developers break ground on a $7-billion project around the United Center. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in the Weekly News Recap with WBEZ senior statehouse reporter Mawa Iqbal, Chicago Tribune government reporter A.D. Quig and Block Club Chicago reporter Quinn Myers. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Is The New Parental NICU Leave Enough?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 36:44


    On June 1, Illinois' Family Neonatal Intensive Care Leave Act went into effect. The law entitles eligible parents with babies in the NICU with up to 20 days of unpaid leave. For more on what this new law could mean for families, In the Loop sits down with three Illinois mothers: Francennett Llamas of The Little Warriors Project, Amanda Santoro with The Little Giraffe Foundation, and Chicago resident Areli Flores. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Eliminating Chicago's ‘Pharmacy Deserts'

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 32:16


    As big box pharmacies continue to disappear from Chicago's South and West sides, thousands of Chicagoans are having to travel miles outside of their neighborhood for medication. Some residents are even forgoing their prescriptions. Today on In the Loop, Alderman William Hall of the 6th Ward shares his plan to fill the gaps left behind. Plus, Edwin Muldrow, a second-generation pharmacist, explains the importance of having an independent, local pharmacy. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    Illinois Makes Strides In Regulating A.I: ‘No Technological System Is Inevitable'

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 32:49


    Just before the legislation session wrapped in Springfield this week, Illinois lawmakers passed landmark legislation regulating artificial intelligence. Senate Bill 315 requires developers to publish reports explaining the capabilities and risks associated with its technology. It also mandates third-party audits. Illinois is one of just a handful of states pushing through laws that regulate AI. But in the absence of federal governance, the growing patchwork of state laws may not be enough to protect consumers as AI technologies rapidly evolve and expand. For more on the growth of A.I. and what enforcement of regulation could look like in Illinois, we hear from Illinois State Rep. Daniel Didech (D-Buffalo Grove) and AI expert Michael Bennett, associate vice chancellor for data science and AI strategy at University of Illinois Chicago.

    Chicago's Efforts To Make Housing Affordable

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026 32:37


    Home prices in Chicago are rising at more than five times the national average, and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker's BUILD plan — aimed to streamline housing development — didn't pass during Springfield's spring legislative session. So what will it take to make housing more affordable and homeownership more attainable in Chicago? In the Loop checks in with Lissette Castañeda, Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Housing. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

    WBEZ's Weekly News Recap: May 29, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2026 47:23


    The Obama Presidential Center announces the schedule for its grand opening. Chicago's U.S. Attorney's Office says it's instituting reforms after the high-profile case against a group of ICE protesters falls apart because of prosecutorial misconduct. Plus, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson visits Pope Leo XIV in Rome. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more with freelance journalist and City Cast Chicago contributor Brandon Pope, Illinois Answers Project reporter Alex Nitkin and Chicago Sun-Times reporter Violet Miller. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

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