Podcasts about chicago magazine

Washington Mystics forward Kiki Iriafen joins Sarah to discuss how her team’s young roster makes the pros feel like they’re back in college, her late start getting into the sport of basketball, why she only has one mandatory item on her pre-game to-do list, and what it took for people to finally start pronouncing her name correctly. Plus, racing double, lacrosse on the lake, and getting coached up to “outwit, outplay, and outlast.” The WNBA schedule is here The NCAA Softball Super Regionals schedule is here The NCAA Lacrosse tournament schedule is here Read the Chicago Tribune article on Natasha Cloud here Read the Chicago Magazine story about Northwestern lacrosse coach Kelly Amonte Hiller here Read Rachel Axon’s story on apps and websites failing to include women’s sports data here You can now WATCH Sarah’s interviews! Subscribe to @iHeartWomensSports on YouTube and check out the Good Game playlist here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at goodgame@wondermedianetwork.com Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social Instagram: @AzziArtwork Follow producer Bianca Hillier! Bluesky: @biancahillier.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

248 Nadine reflects on an essay she wrote about her favorite place to be in the summertime.Join Nadine at an upcoming retreat:Let Go Retreat June 14-17, Door County WIRevision Retreat: Craft Your Best DraftAug 24-28, 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WIAbout Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.About Michelle RedoHeart of the Story producer Michelle Redo has her own podcast, too... Daring to Tell where writers read their true stories of personal daring, then talk about writing and life. Also check out the audiobooks she's produced at her website, michelleredo.com

“Soccer matches are poorly designed experiments — you don't necessarily find out which team was better. But any soccer fan will tell you that. Oftentimes, the better team does not win.” — Nick Greene, via a NASA scientist On June 11, the World Cup comes to North America. Fifty-six years ago, I watched the searing injustice of Johann Cruyff's Holland getting robbed in the 1974 final by Germany. Today I talk with someone who explains how this kind of injustice is built into the game's DNA. Nick Greene — long-suffering Newcastle United fan and author of How to Watch Basketball Like a Genius — has a new book, How to Watch Soccer Like a Genius, which tells us what architects, stuntwomen, paleoanthropologists and computer scientists tell us about the beautiful game. What they tell us is that the game isn't fair. One NASA scientist tells Greene that soccer is a “poorly designed experiment” because the low-scoring nature of the game means results don't reliably identify the better team. Thus the dark fate of the free-scoring, brilliantly inventive Hungarians in 1954 and the Dutch in 1974. So if you want to watch the World Cup like a genius, don't expect the best team to win the tournament. Which may explain why Greene suspects that England — where the pain of World Cup injustice is a national fetish — will win in 2026. On penalties probably. Arsenal style. After 120 minutes of goalless football. Five Takeaways •       Soccer Is a Poorly Designed Experiment: A NASA scientist published a peer-reviewed paper concluding that soccer is a “poorly designed experiment” — the low number of goals means results don't reliably identify the better team. Greene's observation: any soccer fan could have told him that, and saved the journal space. But this is also what makes the game what it is. Unlike basketball's seven-game playoff series — which gives the best team enough chances to emerge on top — a single World Cup match, in a single-elimination tournament, means one error can have outsized consequences. The imperfect and the human are inseparable. •       Justice Has Nothing to Do With It: The 1974 Dutch vs 2004 Greece: Andrew's most painful memory: the 1974 World Cup final, where the magnificent Dutch side led by Cruyff was beaten by the Germans. The Dutch didn't win, but they are remembered as one of the greatest teams in history. The 2004 Greek side, which won Euro 2004 by parking the bus and grinding nil-nil victories, actually won — and are remembered as a fluke. The lesson Greene draws: the shared understanding built into soccer watching is that winning is only one metric, and often not the most important one. It is an imperfect and profoundly human enterprise. •       How to Appreciate Defense: The cliché American complaint about soccer is the low scoring. Greene's response: this is partly a failure to appreciate defense, which in soccer can look like the absence of good offense. He discusses Italy's history of outstanding defensive play — the Catenaccio system, Paolo Maldini, Beckenbauer — and the intelligence required to prevent goals. Andrew's contribution: his wife, who watches American football, taught him that defense is where the sophistication lives. The same is true of soccer. The genius watcher watches the defenders. •       VAR: Too Much, Going in the Right Direction: Greene's measured verdict on VAR — video assistant refereeing. His worst case: when it ruins a goal celebration. The player scores, the crowd erupts, the flag goes up, three minutes of review, okay everyone start celebrating again. That destroys the cathartic moment that makes soccer's rare goals so electrifying. His prediction: VAR will evolve toward the coach's challenge model used in American football and basketball — a limited number of challenges per half, preserving the flow of the game while correcting the worst errors. It's relatively young. It'll be futted and fidgeted with. •       Don't Bet On It. Watch the Game: Greene's best advice for American newcomers to soccer. Not about tactics, not about history. Betting on soccer is a mug's game — partly because results don't reliably reflect the better team (the NASA paper again), and partly because talking about your bets is the least interesting conversation you can have about sport. His prediction for the tournament: England. Reasoning: Harry Kane is playing. Andrew's reaction: Kane is a Spurs man, so reluctant endorsement. But please, Nick. Don't. About the Guest Nick Greene is a contributing writer at Slate and the author of How to Watch Soccer Like a Genius: What Architects, Stuntwomen, Paleoanthropologists, and Computer Scientists Reveal About the World's Game (Abrams Press, May 12, 2026) and How to Watch Basketball Like a Genius (Abrams Press, 2021). His work has appeared in the Washington Post, Chicago Magazine, and elsewhere. He is a Newcastle United fan and lives in Berkeley, California. References: •       How to Watch Soccer Like a Genius by Nick Greene (Abrams Press, May 12, 2026). •       Simon Kuper, Going to the Match — referenced in the introduction as a recent KOA episode on nine consecutive World Cups. •       Franklin Foer, How Soccer Explains the World — referenced as the prior KOA World Cup episode. •       David Winner, Brilliant Orange: The Neurotic Genius of Dutch Soccer — blurbed the book; relevant to the 1974 Dutch discussion. About Keen On America Nobody asks more awkward questions than the Anglo-American writer and filmmaker Andrew Keen. In Keen On America, Andrew brings his pointed Transatlantic wit to making sense of the United States — hosting daily interviews about the history and future of this now venerable Republic. With nearly 2,900 episodes since the show launched on TechCrunch in 2010, Keen On America is the most prolific intellectual interview show in the history of podcasting. WebsiteSubstackYouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify Chapters: 

247 Nadine reflects on an essay she wrote about a friend swooping in just when she needed it and how it inspired her to pay it forward.Join Nadine at an upcoming retreat:Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best DraftAug 24-28, 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WITiny True Stories and Sketches: A Micro Memoir RetreatOctober 26-Nov 2, 2026, SPAINAbout Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.About Michelle RedoHeart of the Story producer Michelle Redo has her own podcast, too... Daring to Tell where writers read their true stories of personal daring, then talk about writing and life. Also check out the audiobooks she's produced at her website, michelleredo.com

246 Nadine reflects on an essay she wrote about anxiety and safety.Join Nadine at an upcoming retreat:Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best DraftAug 24-28, 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WITiny True Stories and Sketches: A Micro Memoir RetreatOctober 26-Nov 2, 2026, SPAINAbout Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.About Michelle RedoHeart of the Story producer Michelle Redo has her own podcast, too... Daring to Tell where writers read their true stories of personal daring, then talk about writing and life. Also check out the audiobooks she's produced at her website, michelleredo.com

245 What is it like to be a midlife mom raising a middle schooler—when time seems to speed up just as you wish you could slow it down? When your child is reaching for independence, but every part of you wants to keep them close?As her son approaches his 13th birthday, Nadine reflects on the emotional tug-of-war of this stage of motherhood. She revisits an early moment that first sparked the pang of nostalgia—and explores the bittersweet milestones that come with raising an almost-teen.This episode is a heartfelt look at growing up and letting go, and the quiet, complicated beauty of loving a child who is becoming their own person.Join Nadine, Molly Wizenberg, and Hallie Bateman in Spain from Oct 26-Nov 2 for Tiny True Stories and Sketches: A Micro-Memoir Retreat. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just wanting to preserve impactful memories on the page, remember that every story—no matter how small—is worth capturing.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.About Michelle RedoCheck out producer Michelle Redo's podcast, Daring to Tell and sample the audiobooks she's produced at MichelleRedo.com

244 Ten years ago, during a particularly stressful and uncertain time, Nadine started a practice of of gathering good moments as reminder notes she could read when anxious. She compiled them into an essay that she shares in this episode. Now, Nadine looks back on that time and reflects on all that has evolved (and stayed the same) in the decade since. Join Nadine, Molly Wizenberg, and Hallie Bateman in Spain from Oct 26-Nov 2 for Tiny True Stories and Sketches: A Micro-Memoir Retreat. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just wanting to preserve impactful memories on the page, remember that every story—no matter how small—is worth capturing.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.About Michelle RedoCheck out producer Michelle Redo's podcast, Daring to Tell and sample the audiobooks she's produced at MichelleRedo.com

243 Five years ago, Nadine's father passed away at the age of 57. Nadine looks back on the spring of '21 and the years since, reflecting on all that has evolved. She explores important questions like: How to we go on in the wake of deep loss? How do we overcome the fear of our own mortality?In this deeply vulnerable episode, Nadine shares a personal essay that is an excerpt from her book, Come Home to Your Heart, and was featured in Good Grit Magazine. She also discusses the life event that prompted her to write the essay, and what she has learned in the years since that difficult period.Covered in this episode:The difficult spring of 2021 when she lost her fatherWhy readers have resoundingly chose this essay as a favoriteThe words that changed her outlook on lossThe behind-the scenes- process of writing this essayThe wisdom she's gained since this traumatic timeWhat it was like revisiting this material 5 yrs later and what gave her hope and healingJoin Nadine, Molly Wizenberg, and Hallie Bateman in Spain from Oct 26-Nov 2 for Tiny True Stories and Sketches: A Micro-Memoir Retreat. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just wanting to preserve impactful memories on the page, remember that every story—no matter how small—is worth capturing.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.Check out producer Michelle Redo's podcast, Daring to Tell --True stories read by the writers who lived them.

242 Nadine revisits an Easter-themed essay she originally wrote in 2021 and reflects on what's changed in the 5 yrs since. She also shares the writing process behind the essay and gives some writing tips for how to express emotional depth in a narrative. Join Nadine, Molly Wizenberg, and Hallie Bateman in Spain from Oct 26-Nov 2 for Tiny True Stories and Sketches: A Micro-Memoir Retreat. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just wanting to preserve impactful memories on the page, remember that every story—no matter how small—is worth capturing.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.Check out producer Michelle Redo's podcast, Daring to Tell --True stories read by the writers who lived them...https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daring-to-tell/id1547856931

Weez's Groovin' BBQ is a the brainchild of Brian Calhoun Backyard Competition master pit master. He is a caterer and competition BBQ guy who is known for his delicious smoked meats, including brisket, pulled pork, and ribs. They also offer a variety of sides, such as mac and cheese, coleslaw, and potato salad. Weez's Groovin' BBQ has been featured in a number of publications, including Chicago Magazine and Eater Chicago. They have also been awarded several accolades, including "Best Barbecue in Chicago" by Chicago Magazine and "Best Ribs in Chicago" by Eater Chicago. Weez's Groovin' BBQ isn't your average barbecue brand. It's a place where good times and feel-good flavors come together in perfect harmony. Founded by Brian "Weez" Calhoun infuses his product line with a fun, musical vibe. High-Quality BBQ, is Weez's focus bringing delicious, expertly smoked meats and all the fixings with twists of flavor. The fun and upbeat attitude is all about creating a positive and enjoyable experience. Fire up the grill, throw on some classic tunes, and smoke up a rack of Weez's Groovin' Baby Back Ribs. Sounds like a groovin' good time!

241 What if a gap year wasn't only reserved for high school grads trying to find themselves? In this encore episode, writer, hiker, and anti-capitalist tiny biz owner, Nic Antoinette, discusses the inspiration behind their grown up gap year, and Nadine opens up about the moment of jealousy that led to her "apprentice year." This is not a new-year-new-you, live-your-best-life episode. Instead, Nic and Nadine talk openly about how they are trying to be real with their plans and expectations. Nic also discusses the other ways they have curated a values-aligned life and career. In this inspiring and permission-granting conversation, you'll feel encouraged to make choices that challenge the norm in order to live a life that is a right fit for you.Covered in this episode: Why Nic writes so transparently about moneyHow honesty and privacy can exist at the same time Creating a values-aligned approach to work and lifeThe burnout that comes from being accessible to too many peopleHow we can be honest with ourselves with no pressure to do anything about it How Nadine and Nic have pivoted in their lives and careersThe key question that will help us take imperfect actionThe price of admission that Nic was willing to pay for peace of mindHow Nic's divorce impacted their outlook on changeWhat Nic and Nadine are doing during their gap and apprentice yearTheir worries about how these changes will impact their lives and careersNurturing our off-line livesAbout Nic:Has spent the past 19 years devoted to a public writing and storytelling practice.Their current writing can be found in a pay-what-you-can weekly newsletter project called Now What? — written for big-hearted, liberation-oriented people who are grappling with the question of who/how we want to be in this collapsing world. They are also the author of two adventure memoirs: How To Be Alone: an 800-mile hike on the Arizona Trail and What We Owe To Ourselves: a 500-mile hike on the Colorado TrailWebsite: https://www.nicoleantoinette.com/Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best Draft Aug 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WITiny True Stories and Sketches: A Micro-Memoir Retreat. Oct 26-Nov 2, SpainAbout Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

240 Nadine gives a personal update by sharing her recently written essay, Sometimes It's Just Hard, in which she opens up about her upcoming move, the state of her marriage, and the past events that impact her present day choices. She shares a recent conversation with her husband that inspired the essay and the writerly techniques she used to craft it. If difficult moments have prevented you from feeling hopeful and assured, you're not alone. This episode is for you.Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best Draft Aug 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WITiny True Stories and Sketches: A Micro-Memoir Retreat. Oct 26-Nov 2, SpainAbout Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

239 Author Susanna Daniel joins Nadine to talk about her new novel Girlfriending—a deeply personal work of autofiction inspired by heartbreak, midlife reinvention, and the messy joy of dating again. Susanna shares how a breakup and a suggestion from a writer friend led her to begin writing from life for the first time.Together Nadine and Susanna explore the creative process behind autofiction, the complexities of writing about real people, and how courage in life often leads to courage on the page. They also discuss midlife freedom, coming out later in life, co-parenting after divorce, and the surprising joys that come with starting over.This conversation is an honest, funny, and thoughtful look at creativity, identity, and the power of telling the truth—even when the truth is still unfolding.Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best Draft Aug 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WITiny True Stories and Sketches: A Micro-Memoir Retreat. Oct 26-Nov 2, SpainAbout Susanna:Susanna Daniel is the author of three novels. Girlfriending, a spinoff of her award-winning short story, "The Goddess of Illicit Choices," is a “a novel to read in a passionate rush, immediately start again in a more savoring way, and then press into the hands of everyone you know,” according to author Amy Shearn and “sexy, page-turning fiction” according to author Catherine Newman.Her debut novel, Stiltsville, was awarded the PEN/Bingham prize, and her second novel, Sea Creatures, was a Target Book Club pick.Susanna co-founded the Madison Writers' Studio with author Michelle Wildgen in 2013. She's won lots of fellowships and has been published lots of places, but she's mostly concerned with building clear and engaging stories and helping new writers develop their voices.Susanna lives in Madison with two terrific teens and adorable mutt. She kayaks a lot and does a lot of hot yoga, and she believes every human deserves human rights.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

238 This encore chat w/ bestselling memoirist Molly Wizenberg covers it all: partnership, parenting, writing, teaching, navigating midlife, and taking brave action. At its heart though, it's a chat about following our desire, even when it disturbs the status quo.Join Nadine, Molly, and Hallie in Spain from Oct 26-Nov 2 for Tiny True Stories and Sketches: A Micro-Memoir Retreat (just a few spots left). Whether you're a seasoned writer or just wanting to preserve impactful memories on the page, remember that every story—no matter how small—is worth capturing.Covered in this episode:Why The Fixed Stars had such a big impact on NadineHow to develop self-trust even when the path forward is unclearWhy we must not abandon ourselvesHow to grow as individuals within a partnershipHow Molly and Nadine (both mothers and teachers) prioritize their writing timeHow to become an emboldened writer even when we're afraidWhat Nadine's and Molly's mid-life journeys have looked likeThe impact of books on their lives and on the mainstream conversation around women and mid-lifeMid-life body empowermentThe brave action they've taken this past yearAbout Molly:Molly Wizenberg is a memoirist, essayist, and teacher of personal narrative writing. She is the author of The Fixed Stars, a Stonewall Honor Book and a 2021 finalist for the Washington Book Award in biography and memoir. Her previous books, A Homemade Life and Delancey, were both New York Times bestsellers. Her work has appeared in The Guardian, The Washington Post, and Bon Appétit, where she was a columnist for three years. She also cohosts the weekly comedy-and-food podcast Spilled Milk, where, with co-host Matthew Amster-Burton, she's been chewing on-mic since 2010. In other lifetimes, she wrote the James Beard Award-winning blog Orangette (2004-2019) and co-founded the Seattle restaurants Delancey and Essex. Today she writes the newsletter I've Got a Feeling, which a very astute person once described as “a chronicle of enthusiasms.” She teaches writing workshops online and around the world.Newsletter: https://mollywizenberg.substack.com/Website: https://www.mollywizenberg.com/Current workshop offerings: https://www.mollywizenberg.com/upcomingworkshopsPodcast: https://www.spilledmilkpodcast.com/Instagram (though I'm not there much): https://www.instagram.com/molly.wizenberg/About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

Mike Stephen discusses the issue of Illinois' struggling population numbers with Chicago Magazine writer Ted McClelland, learns about the local organization called Project I Am from its founder Jahkil Jackson, and then talks to Milwaukee rapper Rap J about his life story and upcoming Chicago performance.

In Interviews of the Week on 104.3 The Score, Blackhawks legend Jeremy Roenick joined the Spiegel & Holmes Show to celebrate Team USA men's hockey beating rival Canada to win the gold medal at the Winter Olympics; author Wayne Drehs joined the Spiegel & Holmes Show to share insight on his feature story for Chicago Magazine on Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong; and former Bears running back Raymont Harris joined the Spiegel & Holmes Show to reflect on life after football and how he has found balance with his mental health.

In Interviews of the Week on 104.3 The Score, Blackhawks legend Jeremy Roenick joined the Spiegel & Holmes Show to celebrate Team USA men's hockey beating rival Canada to win the gold medal at the Winter Olympics; author Wayne Drehs joined the Spiegel & Holmes Show to share insight on his feature story for Chicago Magazine on Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong; and former Bears running back Raymont Harris joined the Spiegel & Holmes Show to reflect on life after football and how he has found balance with his mental health.

In Interviews of the Week on 104.3 The Score, Blackhawks legend Jeremy Roenick joined the Spiegel & Holmes Show to celebrate Team USA men's hockey beating rival Canada to win the gold medal at the Winter Olympics; author Wayne Drehs joined the Spiegel & Holmes Show to share insight on his feature story for Chicago Magazine on Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong; and former Bears running back Raymont Harris joined the Spiegel & Holmes Show to reflect on life after football and how he has found balance with his mental health.

237 Nadine shares an essay about a couple's painting night that went awry and how she went about writing the piece. Join Nadine, Molly Wizenberg, and Hallie Bateman in Spain from Oct 26-Nov 2 for Tiny True Stories and Sketches: A Micro-Memoir Retreat. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just wanting to preserve impactful memories on the page, remember that every story—no matter how small—is worth capturing.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

In the Best of the Cubs this week, Matt Spiegel and Laurence Holmes discussed how center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong needs to make a few key adjustments in his approach at the plate; Leila Rahimi, Marshall Harris and Mark Grote discussed how the Cubs will use utilityman Matt Shaw; and writer Wayne Drehs joined the Spiegel & Holmes Show to share insight on his feature story for Chicago Magazine on Crow-Armstrong.

In the Best of the Cubs this week, Matt Spiegel and Laurence Holmes discussed how center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong needs to make a few key adjustments in his approach at the plate; Leila Rahimi, Marshall Harris and Mark Grote discussed how the Cubs will use utilityman Matt Shaw; and writer Wayne Drehs joined the Spiegel & Holmes Show to share insight on his feature story for Chicago Magazine on Crow-Armstrong.

In the Best of the Cubs this week, Matt Spiegel and Laurence Holmes discussed how center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong needs to make a few key adjustments in his approach at the plate; Leila Rahimi, Marshall Harris and Mark Grote discussed how the Cubs will use utilityman Matt Shaw; and writer Wayne Drehs joined the Spiegel & Holmes Show to share insight on his feature story for Chicago Magazine on Crow-Armstrong.

In the second hour, Matt Spiegel and Laurence Holmes reacted to interesting comments from Bears quarterback Caleb Williams and general manager Ryan Poles about quarterback development in this day and age. After that, writer Wayne Drehs joined the show to share insight on the terrific feature story he did for Chicago Magazine on Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong.

Laurence & Spiegs were joined by Chicago Magazine's Wayne Drehs who wrote a piece on Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong

In the final hour, Leila Rahimi and Marshall Harris wondered if the Bears can overhaul their defensive line this offseason as well as they did their offensive line in 2025. After that, they explained how Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong got real about the weight of expectations in an interview with Chicago Magazine.

In the second hour, David Haugh and Ruthie Polinsky were joined by Tribune reporter Brad Biggs to discuss the latest Bears storylines as the NFL Combine is underway in Indianapolis. After that, Haugh and Polinsky discussed Bears cornerback Nahshon Wright's upcoming free agency. Later, they reacted to Cubs star center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong praising Chicago and criticizing Dodgers fans in a Chicago Magazine feature story.

236 What do we do when we face resistance in our creative practice? What small practices lead to the most profound shifts? How can we grow to love our projects again when we've become blocked or critical? These are just some of the questions that bestselling memoirist Molly Wizenberg, bestselling author/illustrator Hallie Bateman, and host Nadine Kenney Johnstone answer in this episode.Need a pattern interrupt to jumpstart your creative practice? Join Nadine, Molly, and Hallie in Spain from Oct 26-Nov 2 for Tiny True Stories and Sketches: A Micro-Memoir Retreat. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just wanting to preserve impactful memories on the page, remember that every story—no matter how small—is worth capturing.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee announced on Monday that he'll sit down with Tucker Carlson for an interview in Jerusalem on Wednesday, aiming to counter what he calls misinformation about the region. The Media Line reports Huckabee's pushback stems from Carlson's recent sharp criticisms of Israel and Christian Zionists, whom Carlson labeled in an October 2025 interview as "the people I despise most in the world," though he later softened those remarks. This comes amid ongoing backlash, including Stop Antisemitism naming Carlson their 2025 "Antisemite of the Year" for invoking stereotypes about Jewish influence in US politics.On his Tucker Carlson Network, Carlson released a clip just a day ago discussing Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin's relationship, arguing Putin respects Trump and wants peace, while blasting Ukraine's Zelenskyy as a failure who's stolen billions in Western aid and sold NATO weapons to extremists. The full conversation touches on NATO's role, Europe's self-destruction through immigration, and the need for Russia as an ally against China.Separately, an Israeli Christian leader invited Carlson to visit their thriving community firsthand, but The New York Sun notes he has ignored the offer amid his portrayals of Israel as oppressive. Carlson also recently interviewed Texas congressional candidate Ryan Zink, a January 6 defendant, highlighting his ongoing platform for far-right voices like Nick Fuentes, whose October appearance split MAGA circles, as detailed in Chicago Magazine.These moves underscore Carlson's expanding influence through his network, fueling debates on his role in shifting conservative media toward isolationism and criticism of US foreign aid, while drawing rebukes from pro-Israel figures and warnings from investors like Ray Dalio on broader economic risks he discusses.Thanks for listening to the Tucker Carlson News Tracker podcast—please subscribe for more updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

The Chicago Way: An Oral History of Chicago Dining Michael Gebert From a city associated with steak and the stockyards, Chicago has become a capitol of innovative, even avant-garde cuisine—but how? That's the story that James Beard-winning Chicago food journalist Michael Gebert tells in The Chicago Way: An Oral History of Chicago Dining (Agate, $36.00). https://www.agatepublishing.com/97815728…/the-chicago-way/ The story goes back sixty-plus years, beginning with Chicago's first celebrity chef, Louis Szathmary, whose The Bakery would help establish a gang-ridden neighborhood called Lincoln Park as the home of what were soon to be called “yuppies.” From there, ersatz “Continental” cuisine gave way to authentic French cooking under chef-owners like Jean Banchet and Jovan Trboyevic. In turn, young American chefs like Charlie Trotter and Michael Foley would develop a similarly artisanal form of American cooking, while chefs like Rick Bayless and Tony Mantuano brought us authentic cuisine from other countries, helping to develop farmers markets and wine culture—as well as hot dining neighborhoods. Gebert interviewed over 200 chefs, diners, and media and real estate figures, including Rick Bayless, Grant Achatz, Stephanie Izard, Paul Kahan and Culinary Historians of Chicago's president and vice-president Scott Warner and Cathy Lambrecht to tell their story in their own words. His network throughout the Chicago food world offers a unique inside look at how our restaurants changed Chicago—and the world. Biography: Michael Gebert is the editor of Fooditor and a James Beard Award-winning food writer and video producer. He was also an editor of Grub Street Chicago, a contributor to publications such as Chicago Magazine and the Chicago Reader, and a founder of the online culinary chat site LTHForum. He lives in Chicago. Recorded via Zoom on February 12, 2026 CONNECT WITH CULINARY HISTORIANS OF CHICAGO ✔ MEMBERSHIP https://culinaryhistorians.org/membership/ ✔ EMAIL LIST http://culinaryhistorians.org/join-our-email-list/ ✔ S U B S C R I B E https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6Y0-9lTi1-JYu22Bt4_-9w ✔ F A C E B O O K https://www.facebook.com/CulinaryHistoriansOfChicago ✔ PODCAST 2008 to Present https://culinaryhistorians.org/podcasts/ By Presenter https://culinaryhistorians.org/podcasts-by-presenter/ ✔ YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6Y0-9lTi1-JYu22Bt4_-9w ✔ W E B S I T E https://www.CulinaryHistorians.org

235 Creativity often feels elusive, especially when life gets busy. How can we prioritize our writing when there's not a minute to spare? In this episode, Nadine shares how you can harness the beauty of small moments through micro memoirs and sketches to enrich your creative journey. Need a pattern interrupt to jumpstart this creative practice? Join Nadine and bestselling authors Molly Wizenberg and Hallie Bateman in Spain from Oct 26-Nov 2 for Tiny True Stories and Sketches: A Micro-Memoir Retreat. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just wanting to preserve impactful memories on the page, remember that every story—no matter how small—is worth capturing.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

234 What happens when the opposite traits that attracted you to your partner become the very things that frustrate you?Nadine revisits an essay she first wrote in 2018 and originally shared on episode 3 in 2021—an essay about her husband and the moments that have exposed their differences, for better and for worse.Nadine also reflects on what it's like to listen back, now that her kindergartener is a middle schooler and her home address has changed from Chicago to Florida. Yet some things have remained the same: life is as challenging and uncertain as ever.Through memories of wilderness hikes and a post-couples-therapy stroll that helped rekindle connection, Nadine explores how walking became both a practice and a metaphor for marriage. After the essay, she shares behind-the-scenes reflections on how the piece was written—and offers a gentle invitation to writers to follow objects, memories, and moments of meaning wherever they lead.Reclaim your writing time with the following offerings in 2026:Revision Made Easy: A 3-Step Process to Up-level Your Writing Virtual, Feb 28Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best Draft (In-person): Aug 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WIAbout Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

Five years ago—amid the uncertainty of a global pandemic—Heart of the Story was born. In this special anniversary episode, Nadine reflects on the journey that began in isolation and grew into a deeply resonant creative practice and community.Looking back at the episode that started it all, Nadine explores how revisiting our own work can reveal surprising truths about growth, desire, and inner wisdom. She pulls back the curtain on what has changed in the last several years and what lessons she's still re-learning. She also shares the inspiration behind the first episode, including a trip to couple's therapy that led to an aha moment.Reclaim your writing time with the following offerings in 2026:Revision Made Easy: A 3-Step Process to Up-level Your Writing Virtual, Feb 28Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best Draft (In-person): Aug 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WIAbout Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

232 Five days. No talking. No technology. Just awareness.Nadine shares her powerful experience from a five-day silent Vipassana retreat—and what emerged when there was nowhere left to escape. From boredom and resistance to unexpected joy, grief, and clarity, Nadine opens up about the emotional and spiritual breakthroughs that unfolded in stillness.She reflects on self-compassion, non-reactivity, and the freedom that comes from releasing expectations and the constant desire for things to be different. A moving loving-kindness meditation becomes the catalyst for deep emotional release and insight, revealing a simple but radical truth: happiness doesn't live in the future—it's available now.This episode is an invitation to slow down, listen deeply, and discover what silence can teach us about presence, peace, and being fully alive.Get access to the full episode when you become a paid subscriber on Substack.Covered in this episode:Why she chose to do a silent retreat for the second timeWhat was different (and disappointing) this timeWhat it was like to renounce technologyThe rules she brokeThe breakthroughs she hadThe shocking vision that made her weepReclaim your writing time with the following offerings in 2026:Revision Made Easy: A 3-Step Process to Up-level Your Writing Virtual, Feb 28Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best Draft (In-person): Aug 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WIAbout Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column...

What happens when you don't fully step away — but you stop rushing forward?Nadine reflects on the key takeaways from her semi-sabbatical: a year of working part time, studying deeply, and intentionally becoming a beginner again. Instead of chasing output, she followed curiosity. Instead of mastering, she practiced.This episode explores what a slower, experimental year taught her about identity, learning, rest, and growth — and why becoming a beginner might be one of the most transformative choices we can make.If you've been craving space to learn, try something new, or rethink your relationship with work and productivity, this episode is for you.Covered in this episode:How jealousy inspired her sabbaticalWhat she scaled back on and give up completelyThe silly and scary things she wanted to try in 2025How she funded her sabbaticalWhat her fears wereThe unexpected experiences that unfoldedWhat changed when productivity wasn't driving everythingThe key lessons she learned Reclaim your writing time in 2026:Publish the Personal (Virtual): Fridays Jan 23-Feb 27Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best Draft (In-person): Aug 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WIAbout Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

In 1999, under pressure from an activist priest, the City of Chicago Police and Fire Committee invited talk show host Jerry Springer to a hearing regarding violence on his show.  Spoiler, it didn't go well for Burke and the gang.  Come for the government inefficiency stay for the schadenfreude.  Alyssa is joined by her college roomate Pam to mock this circus.  Support the show by subscribing, leaving a five-star review, telling all your friends and following on Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram.  Show Notes: CBS: That one time when Chicago City Council became 'The Jerry Springer Show' WBEZ: How Jerry Springer delighted and infuriated ChicagoChicago Tribune: SPRINGMASTER JER, COVER BOY BURKE WRESTLE WITH ENNUI New York Post:SPRINGER ADMITS HE FAKES IT SOMETIMES South Coast Today: Live at City Hall -- it's Jerry Springer Footage: Jerry Springer Testifies (1999) Tampa Bay Times: Springer goes live, and verbal punches fly Media Burn: [Jerry Springer Chicago City Council hearing] New York Daily News: SPRINGER SEZ SHOW MOCKS VIOLENCE CBS: Springer Hedges On Violence Chicago Reader: Political Atrocities of 1999 Chicago Magazine: 20 Very Bad Chicago Media Gaffes Chicago Tribune: FINAL WORD ON SPRINGER'S CITY HALL GIG: SARCASM Chicago Sun-Times: How Jerry Springer delighted, infuriated Chicago Chicago Tribune: A DAY AT THE CIRCUS: WHICH ONE'S THE CLOWN? Footage: Jerry Springer Reaction (1999) Chicago Reader: The Fox and the Hounds New York Times: Live, at Chicago's City Hall: It's the 'Jerry Springer Show' Chicago Tribune:`SPRINGER SHOW' PLAYS CITY HALL Chicago Tribune: FINAL WORD ON SPRINGER'S CITY HALL GIG: SARCASM Chicago Tribune: SPRINGMASTER JER, COVER BOY BURKE WRESTLE WITH ENNUI Chicago Tribune: IT'S A FREE-FOR-ALL AS SPRINGER FACES COUNCIL Chicago Tribune: NEXT IN CITY HALL: TALK SHOW HOST WITH EXPLAINING TO DO Chicago Magazine: Father Courage: Michael Pfleger Takes on Jerry Springer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the next episode of Heart of the Story, Nadine shares takeaways and surprises from her Sabbatical Year, 2025. About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings, Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a weekly column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

229 While the show is on a holiday break, catch up on any episodes you missed!Reclaim your writing time with the following offerings in 2026:Tiny True Stories, Micro Memoir workshop (virtual) Jan 15Publish the Personal (Virtual): Fridays Jan 23-Feb 27Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best Draft (In-person): Aug 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WIAbout Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

228 In 2025, Nadine interviewed bestselling authors Catherine Newman, Jen Hatmaker, Molly Wizenberg, and more! Now, Nadine chats with her producer about their favorite podcast moments and which bits of guest wisdom impacted them the most. Learn how their personal and creative lives have changed as a result these impactful conversations.While the show is on a holiday break, catch up on any episodes you missed!About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

227 Nadine is taking a semi-sabbatical this year to study, try new things, & travel, and she's sharing her adventures with you in a podcast series that airs monthly throughout 2025. In this 11th episode, she shares the highlights, challenges, and takeaways from November, which was a month of tackling things she's been avoiding. She breaks down the major reasons for avoidance and her strategies for taking baby steps towards the very things we ignore. Join Nadine in her next round of Publish the Personal and at her next retreat:Publish the Personal (Virtual): Fridays Jan 23-Feb 27Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best Draft (In-person): Aug 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WICovered in this episode:The major things Nadine's been avoidingThe 4 reasons we avoidHow to take small steps towards the things we avoidHow to access difficult material on the pageAccess the full episode and the other Sabbatical Yr episodes when you become a paid subscriber on Substack.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

226: How do you turn a daydream into a life? Tricia Leach has been doing exactly that for the past decade. What began as a bold leap into full-time RV living became a family adventure that took Trish, her husband, and their kids through all 50 states and beyond—stories they've shared with a worldwide following through their beloved YouTube channel, Keep Your Daydream.But the journey didn't stop at the state lines. Along the way, Trish launched her own line of spice blends and published two cookbooks (including her newest, Tastes of the States). Now, she and her husband are dreaming even bigger: they've purchased a property that will soon become the Daydream Depot café, opening its doors in 2027.This episode dives into how curiosity, courage, and a willingness to start small can turn an ordinary life into an extraordinary one.Register for Nadine's Micro Memoir course on Jan 15!About Trish:Tricia Leach is the co-creator of Keep Your Daydream, a travel-and-lifestyle brand inspiring millions to chase adventure. She's the author of two cookbooks: Small Space, Big Taste and the latest Taste of the States, which celebrates America's regional flavors and the stories behind them. Whether she's on the road in the US in an Airstream or baking croissants at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, Tricia reminds us that daydreams are meant to be lived.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

Dining Editor for Chicago Magazine Amy Cavanaugh joins Bob Sirott to talk about some of her favorite places to eat at before a flight at O’Hare and Midway, including Tortas Frontera and Big Shoulders Coffee. She also shares details about a conversation she had with Chicago Magazine’s dining critic, John Kessler, about their favorite steak […]

225 Want to see your words in print but don't know where to begin? Or maybe the rejections are racking up and you don't know why. The world of publishing can feel illusive at best and cutthroat at worst, but once you know the unspoken rules, you can get published in no time. Learn how Nadine has gotten her writing in top mags and how she's helped hundreds of writers get published in places like The New York Times, Vogue, The Sun, Brevity, Boston Globe Connections, the Chicago Tribune, Hippocampus, Longreads, Writer's Digest, and more (and how they've gotten nominated for major awards like the Pushcart Prize).Covered in this episode: Why your typical approach isn't workingThe 4 ways to make your writing stand outWhat has helped Nadine and her students get published in major magsWhat Nadine has learned about publishing in her 20-year writing career (first as a Chicago magazine intern, then as a writing professor, a published writer, and a writing coach) If you want to finally publish your personal essays, look no further! Sign up for Publish the Personal, which will run on Fridays, Jan 23-Feb 27. In this 6-week intensive, we'll write, workshop, revise, and submit 2 of your personal essays to major publications. Success Stories mentioned in this show:Margaret GhielmettiSally Schwartz Barbara Phillips Sarah Robertson About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

224 If you want to feel more vibrant and inspired, this encore conversation is for you. Artist and retreat leader, Flora Bowley, joins Nadine for a conversation about their favorite creative practices and Flora's book, The Art of Aliveness. Join Nadine at her Revision Retreat on Madeline Island Aug 24-28, 2026.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

223 As we prep for the holidays and turn our attention to food, we're revisiting our chat w/ cookbook author, registered dietician, and culinary school grad Nisha Melvani. Covered in this episode:-how living in many places (Jamaica, England, Canada, NY) has impacted her cooking-how food affects our bodies-how to eat more plants even if you're not vegan-how to welcome a career change even while raising kids-how sharing her recipes led to unexpected writing opportunities-how to have a healthy relationship with social mediaAbout Nisha:Cookingforpeanuts.com I @cookingforpeanutsNisha is a vegan Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a master's degree in nutrition from Columbia University, an ACCET accredited trained Chef from the Natural Gourmet Institute in New York City, and a published cookbook author of Practically Vegan. She currently lives with her three teenagers in New York City. Nisha uses her professional expertise and personal experience as a vegan to help vegans and nonvegans transition to a plant-based diet and meet their nutrient needs. She enjoys helping her clients with their cooking, nutrition, and health goals.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

222 Nadine is taking a semi-sabbatical this year to study, try new things, & travel, and she's sharing her adventures with you in a podcast series that airs monthly throughout the year. In this 10th episode, she shares the highlights, challenges, and takeaways from October, which was a month of trying new things and being in community. She shares her recent experiences at a retreat in upstate New York and in a women's entrepreneur group. She also shares her most recent hormone roller coaster. Join Nadine at her next retreat:Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best Draft (In-person): Aug 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WICovered in this episode:What it's been like to tiptoe back into a fuller work lifeThe amazing retreat she assisted and attended at OmegaWhy she joined a women's entrepreneur group that is IFS focusedRecent hormone adventures that will have you laughingAccess the other episodes when you become a paid subscriber on Substack.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

221 In this hilarious episode, bestselling author Catherine Newman discusses the beauty and torture of parenting and perimenopause. They discuss the balance of humor and fear in Catherine's latest novels, Sandwich and Wreck, in which Catherine gets real about the complexities of everything from family vacations to "reproductive mayhem." Catherine shares her writing process and the personal experiences that've informed her novels. Ultimately. this episode is about how we hold love and terror at once. Covered in this episode:The excerpt that instantly made Nadine a fan of Catherine's writing. Nadine and Catherine's ridiculous injuries (one involved a mini-golf incident)Maternal anxiety, in all its terror and beautyCatherine's approach to writing that sellsThe unexpected symptoms of perimenopause that took both women by surpriseWhy reproductive experiences make intimacy such complicated territory How to write about our scariest thoughts without shame Join Nadine in her community or at her Revision Retreat:Writer Workout Membership (virtual): Every Monday, Doors Close Oct 31Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best Draft (In-person): Aug 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WIAbout Catherine:Catherine Newman is the New York Times bestselling author of the memoirs Catastrophic Happiness and Waiting for Birdy, the middle-grade novel One Mixed-Up Night, the kids' craft book Stitch Camp, the best-selling how-to books for kids How to Be a Person and What Can I Say?, and the novels We All Want Impossible Things, Sandwich, and Wreck. Her books have been translated into fifteen languages. She has been a regular contributor to the New York Times, Real Simple, O, The Oprah Magazine, Cup of Jo, and many other publications. She writes the Crone Sandwich newsletter on Substack and lives in Amherst, Massachusetts.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

Over 100,000 people marched downtown Saturday during Chicago's No Kings protest. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran recap the march and discuss ongoing court proceedings regarding the deployment of federal troops in Illinois. Plus, we're looking at Chicago Magazine's tongue-in-cheek “budget beaters” and ongoing results from our spookiest thing in Chicago poll. Good News: Dia de los Muertos Xicago 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 Oct. 21 episode:  The Other Art Fair Broadway in Chicago Deborah's Place Window Nation MUBI Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

220 Writer's block. How do we overcome it? Nadine shares the 8 tried and true ways to not only break the block, but avoid it altogether. Hear the wisdom she's gained from her decades of professional writing, magazine editing, university teaching, and manuscript coaching. Here are the links for her 2025/2026 workshops and retreats:Writer Workout Membership (virtual): Every Monday, Doors Close Oct 31Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best Draft (In-person): Aug 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WIAbout Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

219 Nadine is taking a semi-sabbatical this year to study, try new things, & travel, and she's sharing her adventures with you in a podcast series that airs monthly throughout the year. In this 9th episode, she shares the highlights, challenges, and takeaways from September, which was a month of giving and receiving help. She shares her personal experiences and reflections on the importance of showing up for oneself and others, particularly during significant life transitions, such as new motherhood. She recounts stories of support she received during her own journey and emphasizes the need for community and kindness in times of need. The discussion also touches on the challenges of parenting and the significance of creative pursuits in maintaining mental health.Here are the links for her 2025/2026 workshops and retreats:Writer Workout Membership (virtual): Every Monday, Doors Close Oct 31Revision Retreat: Craft Your Best Draft (In-person): Aug 2026, Madeline Island School of the Arts, WICovered in this episode:Nadine became an auntie!Nadine's reflections on her struggles during new motherhoodThe acts of support that had the biggest impact Navigating identity changes after becoming a parent.The ways that people have NOT been supportive during times of need (she can laugh about it now)The number one thing her writing group is doing to keep everyone writingNadine's perimenopause struggles and what's helpingAccess the other episodes when you become a paid subscriber on Substack.About Nadine:Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today's top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story. Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure, was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart, is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen, Natural Awakenings,Chicago Magazine, and more. She writes a regular column about mid-life reclamation on Substack.

Send us a textDr. Christy Kesslering, M.D. started out in conventional medicine as a Radiation Oncologist. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from UCLA and attended medical school at Loyola University Chicago-Stritch School of Medicine. She finished her Radiation Oncology Residency at the University of Wisconsin, Madison in 2000 and has been treating patients in the Chicagoland area since that time. She realized that something was missing from conventional medicine and did additional studies to improve outcomes with cancer but also saw many other diseases improve. She has done additional studies in the fields of Functional Medicine, Integrative Medicine, and the Terrain-Theory of cancer. She is a Terrain Certified Practitioner trained by Dr. Nasha Winters and is a founding member of the Society of Metabolic Health Practitioners.  She has been actively incorporating metabolic health practices into the care of oncology patients for many years. She has been named a Top Doctor multiple times by Castle Connelly and Chicago Magazine. She is now focusing her efforts on working with cancer and non-cancer patients to optimize cancer outcomes, improve quality of life, and reverse chronic diseases.  You can find her at: www.Kessrx.com