Bruce St. James: Here to have a conversation, not to lecture. Having started in radio at the age of 17, and having no other meaningful jobs since, it’s safe to say I have no other marketable skills. Growing up in Washington D.C. and Tucson, Arizona exposed me to very different worlds, and is probably why I am comfortable in almost every setting. Never married, no children that I’m aware of and I don’t even have any pets. I do own a plant, but the fact it’s survived this long without watering leads me to believe it may be plastic. Consistently inconsistent, and proud of it. 2020 brought the world unprecedented changes. 2021 is bringing the focus back to what matters- YOU. We are bringing the conversation back to Chicago with The Bruce St James Show. No more lectures, no monologuing. 2021 is the year of the listener. The Bruce St. James Show will put Chicago front and center as he, his contributors and guests focus on real issues and why they matter to you. From Bruce St James to John Howell, WLS-AM is having the conversations that matter to you. From Maple Park to LaGrange to the Northwest Side, WLS-AM wants to hear from you. Tell us what matters and let’s talk about it.
Why are people coming out of retirement to work? The Bauke Group President & Chief Career Strategist Julie Bauke explains why. More break ins are happening on the Mag Mile. Bruce and Judy try to figure out where the City of Chicago should go from here. Should taxpayers make up for Illinois' pension money mismanagement? Ted Dabrowski, President at Wirepoints, recaps the latest.
Consumers are switching to cheaper brands due to inflation. Bruce and Judy share what food and clothing brands they are loyal to. Grammy Music Educator Award Finalist and Senn High School music director Trevor Nicholas shares how he was nominated for a Grammy. Bruce and Judy are not surprised by the obscene amount of money Chicago makes from red-light cameras. Axios' Justin Kauffman shares you may be getting another stimulus check.
Are you a road rager? Bruce and Judy go through the rules of the road. Judy wonders why new vehicles must average 40 MPH by 2026. Should schools be starting later? Bruce shares how he missed his first-period class every school day. Elma Kulovic, director of the Refugee Resettlement Program run by the Archdiocese of Chicago's Catholic Charities, shares how they are preparing to take in hundreds of Ukrainian refugees. Bruce and Judy believe Eric Church should give free beer out at his next show.
Pete McMurray fills in for Bruce St James. Pete asks Judy, amid the coin shortage, where she stores her coins. Pete and Judy talk to WGN TV's Pat Tomasulo about his new comedy special. Judy shares why she stopped watching March Madness this year. Comedian Jake Johannson shares what it's like looking for colleges with his daughter and his show at Zanies this March 31st. Judy shares why she is a nervous flyer. Marine Biologist Dr. Sylvia Earle invites everyone to an all-woman panel discussion about optimism and the future of marine conservation. Judy tries to convince Pete to get an air fryer.
We all have to grow up sometimes. Bruce and Judy go through things you need to stop doing once you hit your 40s. Judy would be on board to have a pet-friendly office. A man has been charged with trespassing after climbing the wing of a plane and running around the tarmac at Chicago Midway airport. TSA expert and University of Illinois Professor Sheldon Jacobson explains how this man got through Midway's security. The gas tax holiday sounds like a good idea but will it solve our transit problems? State Representative Kam Buckner provides his insight on the gas tax holiday. Judy gives spring cleaning tips to help you declutter your house.
Bruce does not believe you can trick yourself into liking exercise. Is it time to do away with college? Bruce and Judy ask the listeners if they went to college or learned a trade after high school. Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. John O'Brien shares if you need to get your 2nd booster shot. Spring break is at a breaking point. Judy shares tips on how to avoid the partiers during spring break. Chicago isn't as expensive as you think… Bruce and Judy go through the most stressed-out states. Owner of Brown Sugar Bakery, Stephanie Hart, shares how she is doing after a car smashed into her bakery. Comedian Lewis Black calls in to share delightful news. Find out why Judy may need to make a new Netflix account.
Were you afraid of the dark as a kid? Bruce and Judy talk about how they got over their fears as adults. Retired U.S. Army (CID) Command Special Agent Dr. Carter Smith provided his knowledge on gang presence in the United States military with Bruce and Judy. Will Congressman Mike Quigley be running for Mayor of Chicago? Axios' Justin Kaufmann recaps the latest Chicago news. Bruce and Judy find out why you may feel sad looking back at nostalgic photos. Do you regret quitting your job during 'The Great Resignation'? Don't worry, Bruce and Judy talk to Founder and Chief Career Strategist of The Bauke Group, Julie Bauke shares ways to battle 'quitters remorse.'
Bruce and Judy talk about the possible changes happening to DuSable Lakeshore Drive. ABC News Political Analyst Steve Roberts recaps President Biden's speech. Judy doesn't understand why Will Smith hit Chris Tucker during the Oscars. A new law allows Florida parents to consent to school library books. Bruce and Judy wonder what else parents are going to start controlling.
Ravinia Festival is back! Ravinia Festival President and CEO Jeffrey Haydon announces this year's Ravinia Festival lineup with Bruce and Judy. According to a new study, Chicago does not have the best pizza. Bruce and Judy debate the best pizza in the world. The principal of St. Nicholas Cathedral School, Anna Cirrily, tells Bruce and Judy how they are preparing to welcome Ukrainian refugees. The top 10 baby names list came out. Judy wishes she could have named one of her children a different name. Finally, newsman Nick Gale answers all of your home improvement problems.
Chicago Entrepreneur Dr. Willie Wilson is giving away one million dollars in free gas. Bruce and Judy call Dr. Wilson to find out what is happening at the pump. 'The Price is Right' is going on tour! Bruce and Judy travel back in time to share their favorite game shows. The Magnificent Mile Association is on a mission to rejuvenate the Mag Mile. CEO of the Magnificent Mile Association Kimberly Bares shares their plan to make the mag mile magnificent again. Bruce and Judy reveal the Cubs' new slogan. Turkey and trout are in season! Chicago SunTimes Outdoor Columnist Dale Bowman shares tips to enjoy the outdoors this spring! Are schools heading in the wrong direction? Bruce and Judy head to the phone lines to hear how parents feel. The owner of Luft Balloons is selling yellow and blue balloon bouquets and donating all the proceeds to Unicef for Ukrainian Children.
Bruce and Judy look back at their favorite classic gadgets and get the inside scoop on the China Eastern crash from veteran FAA crash investigator David Soucie. Plus, Lauren O'Neil of WKQX reveals her thoughts on the new lineup for Lollapalooza and the legendary Home Run Inn is giving away 10,000 pizzas to people in need.
Herb “The Consumerman” Weisbaum joins Bruce and Judy with much needed money saving tips during times where gas prices are sky high. He has several tips as to how to track down the best deals, as well as how to get the best bang for your buck beyond the gas pump.
Former US Representative Joe Walsh joins the show to discuss his perspective on the SCOTUS hearing for Nominee Kentaji Brown Jackson. Along with Bruce St. James and Judy Pielach, they discuss yesterday's opening statements and what's to come in the hearings.
Justin Kaufmann from Axios Chicago joins Bruce and Judy to talk about one of the new studies covered on Axios. They discuss where college students are headed after graduation- Chicago is sixth in the nation. Why isn't it number one? Why is Seattle the most appealing city to new grads?
Pete McMurray fills in for Bruce St James today. Frank Caliendo is returning to the Genesee Theatre on Saturday, March 19, 2022! Pete and Judy go through their many impressions and learn what it takes to be a fantastic impressionist. Pete talks to Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi about what else the United States can do to help Ukraine. Pete and Judy go through their NCAA brackets. Former Illini Basketball player Deon Thomas joins Pete and Judy to give an inside look at March Madness.
Dolly Parton ‘respectfully' removes herself from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nomination list. Bruce and Judy go through all the artists and bands that belong in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Blood donations are always in demand. Lawrence Ligas has set up a blood donation drive to help those suffering in Ukraine on Friday, March 18th. To donate blood click the link: https://donate.illinois.versiti.org/donor/schedules/zip! Did your auto insurance rate go up this year? Consumer Guide Automotive's Tom Appel explains why you may be paying more. Bruce and Judy find out that the National Scavenger Hunt League is putting together a Chicago scavenger hunt with amazing prizes! Find out why Judy is not happy about Tom Brady returning to the NFL.
Did you remember to change your clocks? Bruce and Judy wonder why we still participate in Daylight Saving Time. Are you building your bracket? Host of "Bet on, Chicago" on 890 WLS, Danny Burke, shares tips for filling out your March Madness bracket. Bruce and Judy share how to protect yourself from gas theft. Alderman Ray Lopez provides insight into Mayor Lori Lightfoot's consequences for unvaccinated Chicago police officers and city workers. Find out how many clocks Judy has in her house.
Ramblin' Ray Stevens fills in for Bruce St James. If you are new to the dating world, Ray explains what "Breadcrumbing" is. On Sunday we are all going to be losing an hour of sleep. Northwestern Medicine Sleep Specialist Dr. Justin Fiala shares how you can prepare for Daylight Saving Time. Ray gives some tips to help you save gas. President of the Better Business Bureau Steve Bernas gives Ramblin Ray and Judy Pielach "the tip-off to the ripoff" to the top 5 scams that pose the most significant threat to consumers. Find out if Ray was successful in setting Judy up on a date.
Illinois men's basketball coach Brad Underwood shares how his team won the Big 10 championship and what to expect during March Madness.
The owner of Door County Candle Company, Christiana Trapani, has been selling unique blue and yellow candles with all of the proceeds going to non-profit Razom for Ukraine. Click the link to find out how you can help out.
Ramblin Ray fills in for Bruce St James and finds out which town is paying the most for gas right now. Illinois men's basketball coach Brad Underwood shares how his team won the Big 10 championship and what to expect during March Madness. Judy shares an exceptional cup of coffee with Ray. Andrew Lipow, President of Lipow Oil Associates, provides insight into President Biden banning Russian oil imports. The owner of Door County Candle Company, Christiana Trapani, has been selling unique blue and yellow candles with all of the proceeds going to non-profit Razom for Ukraine.
CPS announced they would be ending their mask mandate. Bruce and Judy are wondering why marijuana is being allowed at state fairs. How do businesses decide to end sales and services in Russia? Professor Frank M. Sorrentino explains why companies like Apple and FedEx have suspended sales and exports to Russia. Judy, AKA the GoodBuy Girl, shares ways to celebrate St Patrick's Day. Yesterday was the first day for Illinois candidates to file for this year's primary races. The Illinoize's Patrick Pfingsten provides insight into the candidates and what he expects to see during this year's primary races.
How do businesses decide to end sales and services in Russia? Professor Frank M. Sorrentino explains why companies like Apple and FedEx have suspended sales and exports to Russia.
Rabbi Levi Notik shares how Friends of Refugees of Eastern Europe are raising funds to help the Jewish community in Ukraine. Click the link to find out how you can help out. https://www.obshina.com/
Legal expert Rich Lenkov gives an update on the Supreme Court nomination and shares why the Supreme Court will uphold the death penalty for the Boston Bomber. Judy explains what 'hangxiety' is. Would you rather send troops to Ukraine or pay more for gas? ABC News White House Correspondent Karen Travers shares President Biden's plan to support Ukraine. Tune in to find out where DJ Tom spent his weekend.
"There should be some mystery as to how Supreme Court Judges rule," Legal expert Rich Lenkov gives an update on the Supreme Court nomination and shares why the Supreme Court will uphold the death penalty for the Boston Bomber.
"If these allegations are proven true, this crosses lines that are just unbelievable to cross." -Ron Onesti, President of the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans
Check out all the fantastic Greek restaurants in Greektown during Greek Restaurant Week!
Over 2 million Americans quit their jobs in 2021, but where did they go? Google's Jocelyn Runice shares the most googled job with Bruce and Judy. Former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan was indicted on racketeering and bribery charges. Political Analyst Pat Brady and Wirepoints' Ted Dabrowski recap the latest. Bruce reminisces about his times as a Boy Scout.
Dr. John Duffy, clinical psychologist, joins Bruce St. James and Andrea Darlas to discuss how to talk to our children about the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Children are seeing images of the invasion and the devastation in Ukraine all over social media and the television. Dr. Duffy discusses ways to approach these and other difficult topics with them.
Felicia Davis Blakley, CEO of Chicago Foundation for Women, joins Bruce St. James and Andrea Darlas on this first day of Women's History Month. Last year, they funded more than 160 projects serving over 70,000 women across Chicagoland . She talks about the initiatives and projects that CFW is offering during Women's History Month and throughout the rest of the year. These include women investing in their healthcare needs, as well as providing caregivers with mental health and other resources. For more, visit www.cfw.org.
ABC White House Correspondent, Karen Travers, joins Bruce St. James and Andrea Darlas. She gives the latest updates on everything we know about Biden's upcoming State of the Union address. The press secretary announced yesterday that the speech is quite different than it would have been prior to the attacks on Ukraine. As it is a full-spectrum speech, Biden will also address inflation and other issues that have been affecting Americans this past year. Plus, will our sanctions on Russia affect how people view our actions in defending the Ukraine?
PAWS Chicago CEO, Susanna Homan, joins Bruce St. James and Andrea Darlas to talk about an upcoming event to benefit PAWS. Animal Magnetism will consist of food, drinks, dancing, a silent auction, and more. PLUS, you get to bring your dog! It is an essential fundraiser for helping PAWS rescue thousands of homeless pets each year. The event is on Friday, March 11, 2022 at Morgan Manufacturing. More information at www.pawschicago.org.
University of Illinois' John Randolph joins Bruce St. James and Andrea Darlas. John is the Director of Russian, East European, and Eurasian Center at the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and an Associate Professor of Slavic Languages and Literatures. He joins the show to share his expertise and perspectives on Ukraine, the history of the Slavic nations, and more.
ABC News correspondent, Aaron Katersky, joins Bruce St. James and Andrea Darlas live from Lviv, Ukraine. He describes the refugees that he sees fleeing the country and the troops he sees from Russia. They also discuss whether Russia underestimated Ukraine prior to invading. Callers join in and they discuss how involved we need to be to protect freedom all over the worl
Bruce and Judy are surprised that vinyl records are making a comeback. General Manager of City Cruises Chicago, Grace Fuller, joins Bruce and Judy to talk about why you should do one of their river tours this St. Patrick's Day! Bruce and Judy go through the seven deadly sins in the workplace. Calling all wizards and muggles, his weekend is your final chance to experience A Very Harry Winter at Repla Lincoln Park! Do not miss your chance to try the best butterbeer in Chicago! As we return to old normal, Bruce shares the best way to get out of a date. Ukrainian resident Julian Hayda shares his insight on how the people of Ukraine are handling the Russian Invasion of Ukraine and when he expects he will be able to go home. Find out why Judy will not be going to Miami Beach anytime soon.
"Ukrainian to want peace they don't want war but they will defend themselves" Ukrainian resident Julian Hayda shares his insight on how the people of Ukraine are handling the Russian Invasion of Ukraine and when he expects he will be able to go home.
Apparently, nobody knows how to speak because in this episode we learn the secret language of truckers and that we have been pronouncing a certain celebrity's name wrong all along. Updates on the Russia invading Ukraine overnight and how this could affect US citizens. After the long battle between CPD and the city's mayor Lightfoot, the mandate for the vaccine may be easing up.
Judy talks about the time she threw a tattoo and psychic party. Bruce and Judy ask the listeners why there are so many young truck drivers. Will you see relief at the gas pump anytime soon? Gas and oil expert Jay Young explains why gas prices are so high and when he expects the price to go down.
Producer Tom explains what a "Fool's Spring" is. Will the United States step in as Putin orders troops into regions of eastern Ukraine? ABC's Aaron Katersky reports live from Lviv, Ukraine. Chicago Tribune's Kori Rumore and Marianne Mather dig through rare items from the Tribune's vast archives. Find out if you recognize anyone by reading their newsletter and visiting their Instagram page! Judy shares the most famous street in Chicago.
Joanna "The Queen of Blues Guitar" Connor returns to the Kingston Mines this weekend! Joanna Connor shares what to expect at her show and how to get tickets. Alderman Patrick Daley Thompson was found guilty on federal tax fraud charges. Axios' Justin Kaufmann explains what happens next. Are you excited about Bird electric scooters coming back to Chicago? Vaugn Roland shares all you need to know about the "Bird" scooters.
On today's show: Bruce and Judy are joined by Meteorologist Ray Stagich, who helps us differentiate weather advisories, watches, and warnings. The BBB's Steve Bernas has tips on avoiding tax scams. Lawyer Rich Lenkov has the details on the settlement between the families of Sandy Hook victims and the Remington gun manufacturer. Robin DaSilva joins the show with all the details of the “Women of Soul” at the Mercury Theater. That, plus there is now an AI that flirts with you and an Airbnb charging extra for air conditioning.
Robin DaSilva, Jeff Award-Winning Actress, joins Bruce and Judy. She is one of the performers in Women of Soul, going on now at the Mercury Theater. The show is a celebration of the most powerful women of soul, including Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Janis Joplin, and more. The show is playing at the Mercury Theater through March 6th. Tickets and more information at www.mercurytheaterchicago.com.
Lawyer Rich Lenkov joins Bruce and Judy to discuss the groundbreaking settlement between the Sandy Hook families and Remington, the weapon's manufacturer. He discusses why it took eight years to come to this settlement, prior laws that were involved, and where we go from here.
Steve Bernas, President and CEO of the Chicago Better Business Bureau, joins Bruce and Judy to talk tax season. He has tips on avoiding tax schemes, identity theft, and everything else we stress out about when it comes to tax season.
Meteorologist Ray Stagich from The Weather Channel joins Bruce and Judy to talk about what has been going on with the weather in Chicago. He describes today's calm weather as Mother Nature “resetting” for upcoming snow. Ray also gives us the difference between watch, advisory, and warning.
Bruce and Judy can not believe an Ohio Mayor links ice fishing to prostitution. The Shedd Aquarium is under construction, but you can still visit all the aquatic animals! Shedd Aquarium's Dr. Bridget Coughlin shares how they are restoring the iconic Aquarium. Judy complains about her commute to work. Bruce and Judy try to figure out the message behind Uber Eats' Super Bowl commercial. Pastor Corey Brooks has 13 more days to help raise awareness and money to build a new center to help fight violence and poverty in Chicago! Tinder has a unique feature if you're looking for love.
Usually 364 days out of the year everyone tries to skip commercials. However, University of Illinois Business Professor Maria A. Rodas explains why Super Bowl commercials are popular. Then, travel Expert Pauline Frommer shares how you can get your tickets to the Chicago Travel & Adventure Show! Jury deliberations begin today in Alderman Patrick Daley Thompson's federal tax trial. WLS' John Howell shares his insight with Bruce and Judy.
Drive Chicago's Mark Bielek shares what to expect at the Chicago Auto Show this year! Click the link to get your tickets before it's too late! Bruce and Judy go through the illegal baby names. Inflation is on the rise, and Judy is not happy about it. Do you need a new show to watch? Don't worry Bruce and Judy have two show suggestions for you!
The Chicago Tribune has sued the City of Chicago for concealing Freedom of Information documents about allegations regarding misconduct by city workers. Axios' Monica recaps the latest with Bruce and Judy.Senator Darren Bailey on Governor Pritzker ending the mask mandate on February 28th. Judy shares what she will be betting on during the Big Game.
Bruce, Judy, and their listeners try to decide what Chicago should do with Soldiers Field. Judy shares some staple bars around Chicago. The Cubs will launch their own streaming service, but Judy does not think this is a good idea. Meteorologist Ray Stagich shares what's in store for the rest of the week. Tom, Judy, and Miranda bring in chili for Bruce to judge.