Noon Business Hour on WBBM Newsradio

Chicago is emerging as a major AI hub. Some retirees are rethinking downsizing amid high rates. Plus - what you should do with an old 401k.

Chicago is emerging as a key hub for artificial intelligence, joining cities like New York and Boston - thanks to its talent, top research universities, and strong corporate presence. Chris Stegh, Chief Technology Officer at E-Group here in Chicago, joins Andy Dahn on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to explain…

Retiring on a cruise ship isn't just a dream - it can sometimes be even cheaper than many senior living options. More companies are offering paid sabbaticals beyond academia, and grandparents are increasingly bonding with grandkids on parent-free adventures.

Retiring on a cruise ship isn't just a dream - it can sometimes be even more affordable than many senior living options, with meals, care, and travel all included. Cindy Richards - Editor in Chief of She Buys Travel dot-com here in Chicago joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss...

Retiring on a cruise ship isn't just a dream - it can sometimes be even more affordable than many senior living options, with meals, care, and travel all included. Cindy Richards - Editor in Chief of She Buys Travel dot-com here in Chicago joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss...

Blockbusters and ticket discounts are drawing crowds back to theaters, some local shopping centers are defying the odds - and a pair of stock picks from a money pro.

While many shopping centers and retail complexes across the country are struggling, top-tier malls remain strong - performing as well as ever. Bob Phibbs, CEO of the Retail Doctor in New York, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to explain.

The summer movie box office heats up today with the official opening of Superman. Meanwhile, Chicago Sky's Angel Reese continues her marketing roll - and a new spot brings live Japanese-style dining to Chicago.

It's been a big week for Chicago Sky star Angel Reese - she unveiled her new Reebok sneaker line and debuted it on the cover of a video game, marking a major moment in the WNBA's continued rise. Julia Poe, Chicago Bulls and Sky reporter, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details.

Rising costs are causing homeowners to delay repairs. A financial bug-out bag offers protection in emergencies and a digital detox can help reset your mind.

Summer is the perfect time to unplug. Experts say a digital detox can reduce stress, improve sleep, and help families reconnect. Jennifer Jolly, Editor-in-Chief of Techish.com in Seattle joins Judson Richards on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with advice on the benefits - and how to implement one.

Financial stress is causing many young people to delay marriage, buying a home, and having kids. We'll also explore ways to help aging parents with their money, and how cocktail prices are dropping at Chicago restaurants in hopes of attracting budget-conscious customers.

Cocktail prices are dropping at Chicago restaurants in hopes of attracting budget-conscious customers. Izzy Kharasch, President of Hospitality Works - also known as The Restaurant Coach here in Chicago - joins Judson Richards on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss.

As popular travel destinations overflow with crowds, navigating the surge - along with rising tourist backlash - is becoming increasingly challenging. An AI voice hoax triggers global diplomatic and security concerns, and Chicago deep-dish pizza chains push for national expansion.

An imposter recently used AI-generated audio to pose as Secretary of State Marco Rubio - contacting foreign ministers and U-S politicians - raising red flags about misinformation, security, and diplomatic risks. Andrew Busch, Economic Futurist at AndrewBusch.com, joins Andy Dahn on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss.

A preview of the busy week ahead on Wall Street, signs the tight housing market is loosening, and a visit with our Monday afternoon stock picker.

A look at the big government jobs report, It's set to be a record-breaking holiday weekend for travelers and a supermarket chain rolls out smart carts that some say could be an industry game changer.

Forgotten subscriptions and unused memberships quietly drain your wallet, a kid-centered pizza and entertainment chain is looking to attract adults, and living longer means rethinking retirement.

Forgotten subscriptions and unused memberships quietly drain your wallet - but redirecting that money into an interest-bearing account could grow into real money over time. Shari Greco Reiches, Co-Founder of Rappaport Reiches Capital Management here in Chicago, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to explain…

A preview of the booming fireworks industry as the 4th of July weekend approaches, a reminder that charities need support all year - not just during the holidays - and a look at nostalgia-inspired road trips.

Retro road trips are back - travelers are hitting the road for kitschy motels - vintage diners and quirky roadside attractions in search of nostalgia and Americana charm. Mark Wolters, of the 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 to discuss…

Working hard isn't always enough - subtle mistakes can be the reason someone isn't getting promoted at work. Plus, the rise of Raising Cane's to become one of the top three chicken chains in the country, and a visit with our Monday afternoon Stock Picker.

Raising Cane's - the fast-casual chain specializing in chicken fingers - has now surpassed KFC to become the number three US chicken chain, trailing only Popeye's and Chick-fil-A. R.J. Hottovy, Head of Analytical Research at Palo Alto-based foot traffic analysis firm Placer AI, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss what's behind the brand's rapid growth in popularity and expansion.

Latest on efforts to tackle the issue of deep-fakes generated through artificial intelligence, a surprising statistic about teen workers and family income, and a businesswoman making her mark in auto racing.

A Wisconsin businesswoman now leads the company behind the most winning team in Porsche racing history. She's also the force behind the Be Your Own Hero program, which leverages inspiring racing role models to highlight the near-limitless potential for young girls considering a career in motorsports. Victoria Thomas, Co-Owner and CFO of Kellymoss Racing in Madison, Wisconsin joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss...

Financial markets are nearing record highs - just as Noon Business Hour experts predicted, urging listeners to stay calm and buy the dip. A look at how Gen-Z shoppers are reshaping retail with a focus on values over price, and tips on how parents can help kids navigate artificial intelligence.

Gen-Z shoppers are reshaping retail - prioritizing values, ethics, and brand alignment over price and fast fashion trends. Bob Phibbs, CEO of the Retail Doctor in New York, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details.

The latest read on the local housing market, back-to-school shopping starts NOW, and why everyone needs an emergency fund - NO exceptions.

Back-to-school shopping starts now - as families look to spread out expenses and strategically seek the best deals throughout the summer. Jennifer Waters, Chicago-based business reporter Jennifer Waters joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss...

Stocks climb and oil slides as Middle East ceasefire optimism grows. Meanwhile, more people are taking so-called “Retirement Recon” trips - exploring potential destinations before making a permanent post-career move. And more travelers are embarking on food pilgrimages, planning entire trips around iconic dishes and culinary experiences.

Stocks rise as Wall Street shrugs off the U.S. attack on Iran. U.S. intervention in the Iran-Israel conflict raises concerns for American travelers, while downtown Chicago's comeback continues this summer.

Downtown Chicago is booming, with surging foot traffic, hotel stays, and events signaling a robust comeback. Michael Edwards. President and CEO of the Chicago Loop Alliance joins Rachel Pierson on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details...

Many workers are reluctant to ask for a raise - but data shows those who do often receive one. Chicago's iconic Rainbow Cone is experiencing a growth spurt, and we take a look at women and innovation.

Rainbow Cone - a beloved Chicago tradition since 1926 - known for its unique stack of flavors - is gearing up for a busy summer amid continued expansion. John Buonavolanto - Spokesman for Rainbow here in Chicago joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss...

New grads face big transitions - navigating job interviews, managing student loans, and launching strong careers while staying financially smart. Chicago chefs eye casinos for growth opportunities. And an update on the growing "invasion of the robots" across multiple aspects of life.

Money troubles are often a leading cause of relationship issues - and things get even worse when financial infidelity is involved. Craig Bolanos, Co-Founder & Wealth Advisor of VestGen Wealth Partners in Inverness and Downers Grove joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss...

A look at how the housing market is finally becoming more buyer-friendly, using allowances to teach kids about money, and how financial infidelity can erode trust and potentially destroy a relationship.

The Chicago Fire unveils South Loop stadium plan. Plus, the never-ending workday - and reliving childhood vacations while sharing the experience with your kids.

Visiting favorite childhood vacation spots can be a ton of fun - from Wisconsin Dells to Myrtle Beach - and a chance to relive the magic with your own family... Mark Wolters, Wolters World Travel and Culture - YouTube channel and Teaching 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 to discuss...

Data gathered from Microsoft apps such as Outlook - Teams - and PowerPoint - show the workday for many people no longer has a clear start or finish... Emily Peck, Correspondent at Axios in New York joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details...

Blockbuster family films are filling theater seats this summer, tariffs don't appear to be impacting car prices just yet, and we'll help you stay on track with college savings.

It always helps to set goals and stay on track when saving for college - but don't panic if you're behind. Having a plan is what matters most... Ed Gjertsen, Certified Financial Planner and Founder of Engage Wealth Group here in Chicago joins Rachel Pierson on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discus...