Noon Business Hour on WBBM Newsradio

The World Cup showcases not only international soccer, but also America's hospitality, food, culture and welcoming spirit. Plus, summer blockbuster season is underway, with Hollywood hoping for a big box-office payoff, and workplace etiquette tips that can make everyone's day a little better.

A popular grocery chain with a fiercely loyal following may have another hit on its hands, two well-known retail brands are teaming up to capitalize on the lucrative back-to-college shopping season, and the age of self-aware machines may be arriving sooner than expected.

Signs are emerging that artificial intelligence may already be much closer to self-awareness than many experts initially predicted. Paul Hochman, President of Humongous Media, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss.

Tips on digging out of student loan debt, a look at new ways dealers are trying to get customers behind the wheel, and an overview of some "key changes" that occur when a child turns 18.

As many recent college graduates step into the real world, they're also carrying financial obligations ranging from student loans to credit card debt. Ed Gjertsen, Certified Financial Planner and Founder of Engage Wealth Group here in Chicago joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details...

A look at the local housing market. Pizza Hut is sold, McDonald's taps into nostalgia, and why you should use your vacation days and then actually unplug while you're away.

A lot of workers leave vacation days on the table, and when they finally take time off, they often bring work along, never fully unplugging. Two habits that employment experts say can contribute to burnout... Rick Cobb, Founder of the workplace consulting firm 2-Discern in Chicago joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss...

A look at the busy week ahead on Wall Street, there is another dramatic turn in the streaming wars, and a pair of investment ideas from a money pro.

A social media influencer's grocery store weight checks reveal many packaged foods contain less than advertised, leaving shoppers paying more for less, a look at why golf's comeback keeps gaining momentum and we meet a local farmer who is building a sustainable food business, selling natural meats and connecting consumers with products from other local farms as well.

A local farmer is building a sustainable food business while selling natural meats and connecting consumers with products from other local farms as well. Scott Hasselmann - Owner and Operator of Hasselmann Family Farm in Marengo joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss.

A social media influencer's grocery store weight checks reveal many packaged foods contain less than advertised, leaving shoppers paying more for less. Jimmy Wrigg, a social media influencer you can follow on TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to explain.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off today, bringing billions of dollars in tourism and investment while placing North America in the global spotlight. The economics of buying a fixer-upper are changing. And how to split the bill without creating restaurant drama.

Splitting the check at a restaurant can be tricky for diners and servers alike... Izzy Kharasch - President of Hospitality Works - AKA – The Restaurant Coach here in Chicago joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss.

Economist Diane Swonk joins us with the latest on today's key inflation numbers. Plus, why a baby's greatest financial asset is time, and from Boomers to Gen Z, every generation has money myths — and experts say each one gets something wrong.

From Boomers to Gen Z, every generation has money myths - and experts say each one gets something wrong. Shari Greco Reiches - Regional Director of E-P Wealth here in Chicago joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details...

When shopping for a teen driver, safety is paramount, and many experts say there are a variety of SUVs under $10,000 that provide strong crash protection. Plus, ways to get the most out of your summer vacation and create "space" within a trip for two.

When shopping for a teen driver, safety is paramount, and experts say there are several SUVs available for under $10,000 that offer strong crash protection. Matt Jones, Independent Auto Expert based in Los Angeles joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details.

A preview of the busy week ahead on Wall Street, craft beer's boom is fading as consumer tastes shift, and a pair of investment ideas from our Monday afternoon stock picker.

The latest twist in the Bears stadium saga points toward the Hoosier State, we talk with the man who brought Stan's Donuts to the Chicago area, and the legendary Italian Village Restaurant adds a new element.

As the World Cup prepares to kick off, many employers are embracing the excitement, using matches to boost teamwork and workplace interaction. From science fiction to city streets - the rise of robotaxis - and why young people are increasingly pushing back against the AI boom.

As the World Cup kicks off - especially this year, with the tournament being held in North America - many employers are embracing the excitement and using matches to boost teamwork and workplace interaction. Michelle Reisdorf - Chicago Jobs Expert for Robert Half joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details...

For many homeowners—especially empty nesters and retirees—downsizing is about more than moving to a smaller home; it's about simplifying life. That same focus on financial well-being is fueling interest in Freedom Numbers, a key benchmark of financial independence, while budget-conscious consumers continue to seek value at restaurants and stores.

Organizing your personal finances today can spare your loved ones significant stress and uncertainty down the road, the travel trend of putting one child in the spotlight and turning Bears road games into unforgettable travel experiences.

Following your favorite NFL team on the road is becoming a popular travel trend, blending football, tourism, and unforgettable experiences. But you'd better start planning now. Mark Wolters, Wolters World Travel and Culture - YouTube channel and Associate Professor Of Business Administration at the University of Illinois - Gies College of Business in Urbana-Champaign joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details...

Illinois lawmakers wrapped up the spring session without taking final action on a proposal tied to the Bears' stadium plans, Internet culture is finding a profitable home on the big screen, and we'll discuss how to turn your child's first paycheck into a valuable financial teaching moment.

Your high schooler's first job and paycheck provide an opportunity for some important financial lessons. Chris Everett, fiduciary financial planner and president of Everett Wealth Solutions in Forest Park, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to explain.

Chicago-area small businesses remain very busy, but finding reliable workers continues to be a major challenge. Child identity theft is on the rise, and many families don't discover it until it's too late. Plus, we check in with a 128-year-old Chicago family business that helped put giardiniera on the map and now sells the local favorite nationwide while continuing to expand.

A 128-year-old Chicago family business that helped put giardiniera on the map now sells the local favorite nationwide and continues to expand. Jeff Johnson, President of Marconi Foods in Des Plaines, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details.

More workers are stealing from their financial future, summer fun is getting a gadget upgrade, and you may want to “dip a toe” into the electric vehicle pool before jumping all the way in.

With high gas prices, many drivers are taking a hard look at electric vehicles. But before you pull the trigger and buy one, rent one first Matt Jones - Independent Auto Expert in Los Angeles joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to explain.

Summer gadgets are moving outdoors - from misting fans to backyard movie screens. Tech is bringing more comfort, sound, and entertainment to the patio. Carl Prouty, The Technologist at Abt Electronics here in Chicago, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to explain what's hot for outdoor living this season.

Chicago-area home prices are hitting record highs as strong buyer demand returns, how “work ethic” can separate you from other job applicants, and why you shouldn't let wealth flashers pressure your wallet or peace of mind.

Chicago-area home prices are hitting record highs as strong buyer demand returns - even while the national housing market remains sluggish. Mario Greco, Founder of The M-G Group at Compass here in Chicago joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details.

Youth sports are more expensive than ever, and the rising costs are hitting family budgets. Multigenerational trips work best when everyone feels included, and a credit card balance transfer can be a financial lifeline — but there are key things to consider first.

Youth sports and activities are more expensive than ever, and many families are feeling the cost as summer leagues, camps, special coaching, and other programs ramp up. Ed Gjertsen - Certified Financial Planner and Founder of Engage Wealth Group here in Chicago joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss.

Stocks are eyeing record highs as the time-tested Dow Theory reconfirms its bullish signal, sometimes the smart move for a new grad is starting their career in a smaller city and The unofficial start of summer is bringing new drinking habits.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell says both options for a Bears stadium are viable, veterans and consumers are being warned about Memorial Day scams, and modern life and tech are stealing our focus.

Modern life and tech are stealing our attention - especially from kids. Paul Hochman, President of Humongous Media, joins Judson Richards on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details.

This summer, turn saving into a family mission by picking one big goal, setting a price, and tracking progress together - plus a look at the growing role of single women in today's housing market and what families should know about the cost of pet ownership.

Before bringing home a pet, families should consider the full lifetime cost - from daily food and grooming to vaccines, emergencies, and senior care. It can be a bigger financial commitment than many initially anticipate. Shane Gornik, Financial Advisor at Forefront Financial Planning in Lisle, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to explain.

This summer, turn saving into a family mission by picking one big goal - setting a price - and tracking progress together. Sandi Bragar, Chief Client Officer at Aspiriant in San Francisco, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss.

Money talk can be awkward while dating — but experts say lifestyle and spending questions can reveal long-term financial compatibility; the modern rules of dressing for career success; and why more travelers are turning vacations into meaningful charity and passion-driven experiences.