Podcasts about chicago podcasts

In another All-Maul Recap on Tap bonus episode, hosts Alyce and Laura discuss* the final 2 episodes of Star Wars: Maul - Shadow Lord Season 1.  At the time of recording, Star Wars Celebration tickets had just gone on sale. So we talk a little about that.   The keg is tapped in our final Recap on Tap of Maul Season 1! Join us for a recap and discussion of episode 9: Strange Allies and the season finale, episode 10: The Dark Lord.  Still kinda bitter about the Ahsoka novel retcon. Still not our favorite move, Star Wars. Caravan of Corrections and Confusions? Sixth/Eleventh Brother edition Why Alyce has been right about the prequels all along. RIP Spybot. You would have loved Mr. Bones. Vader's silence explained. You've seen the Force push, pull, hold. Now introducing: the Force nudge That's all she wrote! See you in June for a discussion on The Mandalorian and Grogu! Bluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.social Instagram: @forcetoastpod Email: forcetoastpod@gmail.com Website: forcetoastpod.com *This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

Send us Fan MailThe funniest part of comedy is supposed to be the laughter, not the analytics, but that's not the world we're working in anymore. We sit down with comedian Stephanie Robertson to talk about hitting her five-year mark in stand-up, what the comedy community gives you that the internet never can, and why the live room still tells the only truth that matters.Stephanie shares what life looks like during a forced slowdown: moving back from Austin, Texas, staying in the suburbs, and losing access to her car for a week. That simple problem turns into long walks, heavy journaling, and a lot of clarity about momentum, creativity, and what you actually need to keep writing. We also get into her experience producing a weekly show at The Vixen in McHenry, dealing with regulars who know your act, and the constant push to keep evolving.Then we go straight at the big modern headache: the social media algorithm. We talk Instagram Reels, TikTok, stand-up clips, retention time, and how editing for “the first two seconds” can distort a joke and chip away at creative integrity. We also unpack why huge follower counts still don't guarantee ticket sales, and we debate the thin line between offensive jokes and comedic freedom through the Kevin Hart roast backlash. If you care about stand-up comedy, comedy clubs, marketing as a comedian, and building a career without selling your soul to metrics, this one's for you. Subscribe, share this with a friend who lives online, and leave a review with your take on where the line should be.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment. 

Send us Fan MailTime is the one thing nobody can refund, and that truth sits underneath everything we talk about with Race Bannon. We start with a real check-in: what we're working on mentally and emotionally, how mortality changes the way we move, and why being present is a skill you have to practice. From there we get into what “real wealth” actually means when the flex fades: health, peace, and relationships that are still standing 20 years later. Then we zoom out to Chicago hip hop, independent radio, and the behind-the-scenes friction that comes with institutions, gatekeepers, and control. We talk about why some stations want to own your information, why online radio can be freer than corporate airwaves, and how cities build “safe bubbles” that protect money while squeezing everybody else. If you care about culture carrying, artist ownership, and building something that lasts, this part hits hard. We also get into the internet attention economy: algorithms, outrage marketing, and why posting isn't the same as connecting. Race Bannon shares what it takes to build community outside the feed, plus what he's dropping now with Super Sounds, including the Roping release and where to get it direct. Tap in, share this with someone who needs it, and subscribe and leave a review so more people can find the conversation.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment. 

In today's episode, I sit down with Pamela Wardrop and Carol Johnson, the Silver Sisters, comedians and show promoters carving out their own space in San Diego. We're exploring why it's never too late to start something new and how life's biggest curveballs become the best stage material.From navigating dark humor after a cancer diagnosis to the reality of being a grandma in comedy clubs, this episode is about making your own room and finding your tribe. If you've been waiting for permission to follow your dreams, this is your sign to stop waiting and start picking yourself.⸻⏱️ Episode Timeline & Highlights[01:19] – Carol's ultimate revenge story: Her ex said she wasn't funny, so she started writing [02:03] – How a cancer diagnosis became Pamela's "now or never" catalyst [05:15] – My surreal moment reaching out to Mike Birbiglia at 69 [08:42] – The Silver Sisters' philosophy: Stop waiting to be picked [15:43] – Raising "Tornado Boy" and teaching to a child's strengths [24:07] – From naval cryptologist to comedy stage: Pamela's military journey [30:00] – Why women in comedy need to produce their own magic [38:37] – Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP) and healing through comedy [45:00] – Finding your tribe and creating community in comedy [52:00] – Final wisdom: Dress like your own character every day⸻Links & Resources Mentioned• Youtube Channel: Pam Without a Plan (@pamwithoutaplan371) • Instagram: Carol Johnson Comedy(@caroljohnsoncomedy) • Instagram: Silver Sisters Comedy(@silversisterscomedy) • ASAP (Armed Services Arts Partnership) – asapasap.org • Mic Drop Comedy Club, Sandiego - www.micdropcomedysandiego.com/⸻Closing ThoughtsIf you enjoyed hearing from these fabulous ladies, subscribe and follow the Suzi Chicago Podcast. Also, leave a rate and review. Remember: make your own room, find your tribe, and dress like your own character every single day. See you next time!

Send us Fan MailLosing someone you love can reorder your whole day, and sometimes the only way through is to build a routine that holds you up. We sit with Chicago's own Teefa for a conversation that starts with grief and self-care and quickly opens into something bigger: what it means to be a real artist, a real person, and a real voice in Chicago hip hop. From sauna time and meditation to building a home that feels like a retreat, Teefa breaks down how healing becomes a practice, not a slogan. We also dig into her journey through the Chicago music scene, from early access to DJ gear and recording, to barbershop freestyles, ciphers, and first shows that made the dream feel reachable. The talk turns to how the city's hip hop spaces have changed, how drill music reshaped attention, and why “balance” in music matters for youth, culture, and mental health. If you care about lyricism, vulnerability, and storytelling that reflects real life, you'll hear why Teefa believes words carry weight and why growth should never have an age limit. Then we get practical about the music business: Chicago radio support, local artist ecosystems, fair opportunities, and why every step toward success can't come with a price tag. We close on the joy of sound with “International” and Teefa's house music and hip hop blend that's built to move a room without losing bars. Subscribe for more real conversations, share this with a Chicago music fan, and leave a review so more listeners can find the show.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment. 

YOU ANSWER TO ME B-TCH TITLE CARD HERE In Episode 154, hosts Alyce and Laura have* the Mandalorian and Grogu and Maul. That's it. That's the episode.  JK there are a few other things: The final trailer for The Mandalorian and Grogu! (YouTube) If you don't want to watch the full 37-min video of Jon Favreau's appearance at CinemaCon, SWNN has a good breakdown here.  Are you going to the May The Fourth preview screenings of Mando/Grogu? If so, you're lucky because tickets went fast! If you're into model making, Phil Tippett's creature shop, film effects and/or Star Wars ships, you'll probably enjoy this behind the scenes look at The Mandalorian and Grogu film with Adam Savage and Jon Favreau. Grain of Salt: there's a rumor swirling about a new 2D animated Star Wars series  From “This is the Way” to “Have It Your Way”! Burger King's got The Mandalorian and Grogu stuff for kids and adults.  Millennium Falcon meets Mando? Smuggler's Run is going to somehow incorporate The Mandalorian and Grogu? We don't get it, so hopefully more to come? (via SWNN)  BooshkeeDO you even have an elbow?  Recap on Tap - with SPOILERS! Maul - Shadow Lord episodes 3-6 features the galaxy's Ugliest Lieutenant, Rook harshing on Maul's vibe at every turn, Looti Tooti, The Fart before he became a fart (presumably) and Two Boots providing no reassurance whatsoever in any situation Laura gets mad - no, stays mad - at how expensive things are  Come for Happy Hour, stay for Alyce's young Boba Fett impression Apropos of Nothing: The phone strap Alyce asked about isn't available anymore, but this is kind of similar    Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_Laura Instagram: @forcetoastpod Bluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.social Email: forcetoastpod@gmail.com Website: forcetoastpod.com *This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

Welcome to our first 100% video episode! I'm sitting down with the beautiful, brilliant, Emmy-winning Trish Suhr in my newly transformed art studio.Trish shares the "Swedish Death Cleanse" philosophy that'll make you want to toss your clutter immediately, plus a three-minute encounter with Dolly Parton that literally stopped her from quitting show business.We dive into growing up in a funeral home, the "high tides" mentality for women in comedy, and why being "seasoned" means you still have plenty of shine left. If you've ever felt underestimated or wondered if your best work is still ahead, this conversation is for you.⸻⏱️ Episode Timeline & Highlights[02:57] – Blessing my convertible at CarMax: Gratitude for things that served us[04:26] – The Swedish Death Cleanse and giving your stuff away while you're alive[11:06] – Caskets and cadavers: Growing up in a funeral home and med school drawing[22:34] – How a surprise open mic in South Carolina launched my comedy at 68[31:25] – The "High Tides" mentality: Why women in comedy don't compete[43:59] – The "Spring" patent story: Never judge an engineer by their cover[01:00:00] – Emmy-winning writing and Clean House memories[01:20:00] – Why "seasoned" performers have more to give than ever[01:36:45] – Three minutes with Dolly: The moment that saved Trish's career[01:45:00] – Final thoughts on shine, gratitude, and Grandma Fun Fun wisdom⸻Links & Resources Mentioned• Book: The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning by Margareta Magnusson• Hotel Recommendation: St. Regis Venice• Comedians: Leanne Morgan, Karen Mills, Josh Johnson• TV Shows: Clean House, The Office, Ted Lasso, Rooster (HBO)• Follow Trish Suhr on Instagram, @trishsuhr for more stories and wisdom⸻Closing ThoughtsIf you loved this conversation, follow the show so you don't miss a single episode. Rate, review, and share this with someone who needs a little "Grandma Fun Fun" wisdom in their life.

Send us Fan MailMost people think a great live show is just great music. We don't. A great show is communication, timing, sound, and a lineup that actually makes sense, and Lyric Versatile pulls back the curtain on how Chicago nights go right (or fall apart). We start with a real check-in on pacing and mental balance, then get into the personal story behind his name, his North Side roots, and how community shaped his style.From there we get practical about event curation and live show promotion in the Chicago hip hop scene: what promoters forget to do, why the DJ workload matters, how many acts is too many, and the uncomfortable truth that your vision has to match your budget. Lyric also breaks down Sunday Service Social, the open jam session built around musicians, vocalists, and MCs creating in real time with a house band, plus what that kind of space does for confidence, freestyling, and artistic growth.Then we go deeper on vulnerability in rap and what a healthy relationship looks like when conversations get uncomfortable. And yes, we still make room for left-field comedy, including a rapid-fire “Bitch I Got Options” game and some opinions that probably should've stayed off-mic. If you're building a fanbase, booking shows, or just love Chicago culture and live music, you'll leave with both gems and laughs.Subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review if you want more conversations like this. What's the one thing that instantly ruins a live show for you?Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment. 

In Episode 153, hosts Alyce and Laura are* going to the MAUL later, thank you for asking. Laura whips out the good sh-t for Happy Hour We made a Sally Ride error and every woman in STEM that left an indelible mark on the world rolled over in their grave… including Sally Ride, probably.  The Mandalorian and Grogu is coming out in May, a few weeks after May the Fourth. You'd think that would be a good marketing tie in, yeah? Nope, Star Wars Day is all about Return of the Jedi this year for some reason. Maul about Maul! He's everywhere! In the news! On Disney+! Probably other places! Maul - Shadow Lord is getting a second season. Plus, Filoni talks Maul with Esquire. Protip: there's a great TLDR on SWNN. Jon Favreau will be at CinemaCon to get everyone hyped about the upcoming Mando movie (via Deadline) Grogu is the real star of this filmmaker roundtable Ben There, Done That! (patting ourselves on the back for that one) Stephen Soderbergh reacts to Lucasfilm's pass on his Ben Solo-centric film (BKMAG via Nerdist) In book news, Star Wars' new horror offering and, on the opposite end, an adult coloring book! Multitudes, Star Wars contains, hmmm? LEGO Smart Bricks continue to mystify the masses. Now Mark Hamill weighs in. We're back with Recap on Tap! Maul - Shadow Lord is officially here and we're diving into episodes 1 and 2 with a SPOILER discussion on all the old and new faces, cute lil guys and insane bad-@ssery abound!  Feeling a little lost after the first episodes of Maul - Shadow Lord? We recommend Youtini's Everything You Need to Know article.  BOOSHKEEDOO! Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_Laura Instagram: @forcetoastpod Bluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.social Email: forcetoastpod@gmail.com Website: forcetoastpod.com *This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

In Episode 152, hosts Alyce and Laura learn* valuable lessons about 90s Nickelodeon theme songs and where the f-ck Tosche Station is! If there is one thing you take away from this podcast, it's that you are supposed to watch all 39 hours of Daredevil before you watch Born Again.  Will Alyce's prediction/dream that Taylor Swift be cast as the voice of Grogu ever come true? Here's an update… (Gizmodo via Variety) Remember in our last episode when we asked, hey whatever happened to that one trilogy? From our lips to Penguin Random House's ears. Check out this article and the official synopsis for Reign of the Empire: Edge of the Abyss here. What TIME is it? Show time (show time), show time (show time)! Thanks, 2016 Bruno Mars. Speaking of time, they make mid-bougie Mando watches for men and not women. Some poor schmuck had to drill a bar into the deepest depths of the earth for our boy Adam Driver (via SWNN) Usually we regret asking for a man to mansplain something to us, but we kinda needed someone to explain Smart Bricks to us. Fortunately GamingBible was on it.  Star Wars dropped the episode titles for Maul, but they did it on icky twitter, so here's a link to Star Wars News Net instead. You're welcome.  Out with the new, in the with old trilogy: Disneyland's Oga's gets a refresh (via WDW News Today) Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_Laura Instagram: @forcetoastpod Bluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.social Email: forcetoastpod@gmail.com Website: forcetoastpod.com *This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

We open on the Chimera f--kin'. In Episode 151, hosts Alyce and Laura enjoy* one last jaunt to Peridea, complete with TOE Fighters, Rebels Season 1 Ezra and Grand Admiral Cock a Doodle Blue! Let's catch up with Alyce's Marvel catch up. Catch up Inception! Speaking of, should we add a Marvel segment to our show when Daredevil comes back? What do we call it? Marvel Manor? Marvel, May I? Marvel Mountain Schlong, perhaps… Happy Belated Rebels Remembered Day to all who celebrated last week! A preview of the forthcoming May issue of Empire Magazine, featuring Mando and the BABAY Today's lesson in filmmaking no one asked for: the black and white clappy thing used on film sets Prediction: you won't be able to swing a light saber without hitting someone dressed as Rotta the Hutt at the next Star Wars Celebration Bae? Alyce's Bae? Obi-Wan? O-Bae-Wan? He's gonna be in Ahsoka season 2? Maybe? (via Bespin Bulletin) Step aside, Ewan. There's a new Bae in town! Ryan Gosling has a rule about franchises. His rule is confusing. But it's his world and we're just living in it. Did “Are You Afraid of the Dark” traumatize Millennials in childhood? Revisit 90s Nickelodeon with us! Maul has to be faster and more intense in the upcoming animated series. Also apparently he's going to be questioning everything he believed about the Jedi. Not about Obi-Wan though, he definitely still hates that b-tch. Recap on Tap: Our Ahsoka Again segment comes to an end as we re-watch the Season 1 finale, Part 8: The Jedi, The Witch, and the Warlord. Climb aboard the mountain where Morgan finally reveals her true badassery, Daniel aka Sabine's Force powers show up when it really counts, Ezra makes a big leap and trooper zombies are powerless without their heads! We hope you've enjoyed the ride. Now enjoy the 9- to 10-month (or more) wait for Season 2.   Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_Laura Instagram: @forcetoastpod Bluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.social Email: forcetoastpod@gmail.com Website: forcetoastpod.com *This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

Send a textEver yell at your screen because the boom mic is right there? We sat down with Chicago filmmaker Will Adams to unpack how he turned the internet's favorite “bad movie” moments into a sharp, self-aware comedy that has audiences laughing with the filmmakers instead of at them. From fake eating and no-blood gunfights to the infamous not-really-kissing kiss, Will bakes the jokes into the script, then lets pros like Damon Williams, Adele Givens, and B. Cole deliver them with perfect timing.We dig into why writing is the single biggest lever for indie film quality and how a tight script can survive rough edges that fancy cameras can't hide. Will lays out a practical blueprint—write first, lock locations, then cast with dates—and explains why unstructured improv often wrecks continuity and pacing. As a director, he owns the vision, coaching performances until the line clicks because “that's a cut” is a promise to the audience. His Chicago upbringing—code-switching between grandma's grammar lessons and South Side cadence—shows up in dialogue that sounds lived-in, not lab-built, and in his refusal to box Black stories into endless gangster reruns.We also talk distribution and discoverability, the power of watching comedy with a crowd, and the music puzzle: why he partners with a composer to nail tone while dodging rights landmines. Will's influences span Pulp Fiction and Snatch, structures where every character is the star of their own thread before everything collides. That DNA shapes the film's spine, preventing sketch chaos and rewarding attention with layered payoffs. Before we wrap, Will teases Fluke—think Atlanta meets Curb Your Enthusiasm—about an out-of-work actor who keeps failing upward, proof that there's room for fresh, funny, human stories that don't recycle the same tired tropes.If you're hungry for smarter laughs and better craft, hit play, share the link with a note, and tell a friend what gag destroyed you. And if you're new here, tap follow, rate the show, and drop a review—your words help more curious listeners find us.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment.

Send a textThe moment you decide to end something beloved is the moment your standards get loud. We talk with author-engineer-artist Steve Sxak about closing the Marston House Cipher after 15 years of free, culture-first sessions—and why a final-season victory lap and documentary are the right way to honor it. The reasons are honest: parenthood, touring, writing, and an unwillingness to do a half-speed version of a pillar that helped define Philly's underground hip-hop.From there we dive into the shifting DNA of battle rap. Steve's watched the scene evolve from off-the-top, on-beat warfare to intricate, months-in-the-making a cappella performances. We break down the pros and cons of both, the real boundaries—words are open, hands are not—and the intangible skills that separate a punchline from a moment: timing, breath, and crowd control. Philly is the backdrop for it all—late nights, tight roads, and tighter communities that push you to grow or get left.Creation doesn't stop at the booth. Steve's touring with The Heroes League into SXSW's Nerdcore Days, carrying a mobile studio to capture spontaneous collabs. He's dropping a project every month across hip-hop, R&B, folk, and punk, plus a hard-knock record with Amsterdam's Skinny Bones the Godfather that's taking him to Europe and beyond. We also unpack the surprise hit of his YA novel, Invasion Of The Punk Rockers Who Drink Blood, how a joke title became a serious story about belonging and real-world monsters, and what it took to bring it to life.Underneath the accolades is a working parent's blueprint: homeschooling for flexibility and focus, kids in the room learning engineering and rhythm, and a studio practice that values preparation over posturing. If you've ever wrestled with when to close a chapter, how to protect your standards, or how to build a creative life that still makes room for Nerf wars and bedtime, this conversation lands. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves hip-hop and books with bite, and leave a review with your take: is anything off-limits in battle rap?Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment.

In Episode 150, hosts Alyce and Laura celebrate* the 7th Avernersary of Force Toast (and The Mandalorian) but mostly Force Toast. Reminiscing on 7 years of watching and reading Star Wars, doing trivs and learning mad skills, like how to do Star Wars Celebration, how to podcast and how to not drink too much when podcasting. Important life lessons! What do Sam Elliott, sh-tty beer and football have in common? Star Wars at the Super Bowl! Mystifying, or just a small (expensive) part of a grander marketing plan? (article referenced) Speaking of Mando - we call him Mandu now - a new MandUlorian & Grogu trailer is here! Let's discuss!  The article that sparked a million click bait parasites did not actually say what you think it said. Calm down.  We did the math. Jon Favreau isn't going anywhere. Take that, click bait.  Remember Rogue Squadron? The question of whether it will ever come to fruition remains… a question. (via Parade) RIP Admiral Piett actor Kenneth Colley. Sorry DailyMail and the internet made it weird.  Recap on Tap gets dreamy and maddening in Part 7 of Ahsoka: Dreams and Madness! Hera strikes back, Baylan is Batman now, Ahsoka is scary, Morgan does not Yes And any of this, and Every. Single. Reunion on this show is underwhelming.  Thanks for being one of our 80k+ downloads! From Day 1 to Day 2,555 - however long you've been listening to our rambling, we really, really, really appreciate you! Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_Laura Instagram: @forcetoastpod Bluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.social Email: forcetoastpod@gmail.com Website: forcetoastpod.com *This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

Send us a love letter (or hate mail, your choice!)Are you ready to level up your dating game? Looking to impress some lucky lady? The Rizzler says the key to winning her heart is actually quite simple, head to your local mall and buy her a pink Lamborghini, duh!!!Conor and I take to the podcast to celebrate his 30th with a little help from the Rizzler himself, file a formal complaint about the Mariano's on Chicago Avenue for its complete disregard for the customer experience, and surrender to the Tell Me Lies drama. Get silly with us on social:FOLLOW THE PODCASTInstagram: @pessimisticatbestFacebook: @pessimisticatbestWebsite: pessimisticatbest.comFOLLOW SAMInstagram: @samgeorgsonTikTok: @samgeorgsonTwitter: @samgeorgsonYouTube: @samgeorgsonWebsite: samanthageorgson.comFOLLOW CONORInstagram: @longliveconorSupport the show

Joy can be a radical act on a Chicago stage. We sit down with the C.R.E.A.M  Girls—Indica and CookieNoMilk—to unpack how routines, faith, and a gritty sense of humor keep them balanced while they chase bigger rooms and brighter lights. From West Side roots to synchronized performances, they show how therapy, poetry, and family history turned into a sound that's equal parts fun and fearless.We go deep on the craft. Why stage presence matters as much as bars. How image communicates intent. What open mics can unlock when you treat them like headline sets. The C.R.E.A.M Girls explain why audience engagement isn't optional, how a signature handshake and coordinated fits make you memorable, and why artists should invest in performance planning, not just studio time. They name-check influences from Mary J. and Drew Hill to J. Cole and Durk, then draw a clean line between nostalgia, lyricism, and energy that moves a room.The most powerful moment centers on “Holding On,” a record born from personal loss. CookieNoMilk opens up about grief, resilience, and using music to speak when words fail. From there, we widen the lens: what today's hip-hop is missing—respect for women and room for maturity—and how the city can win with less gatekeeping and more honest guidance. We talk dream collabs, the difference between BET and the Grammys, and why Chicago's indie film scene needs stronger scripts, rehearsal, and coaching to match its ambition.If you care about artist development, community building, and the unglamorous habits that lead to stage-ready magic, this one hits home. Tap in, share it with a friend who's grinding toward their first big look, and leave a review so more Chicago artists can find these gems. Subscribe for new episodes, mixes, and our upcoming Poetry Night details.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment.

Send us a love letter (or hate mail, your choice!)What constitutes stuff vs. things? Easy, boys like stuff, girls like things, and a dream is a wish the heart makes, next question! Meghan and I take to the podcast to settle the stuff vs. things debate, defend the typo, survive a smelly Uber, and drag the completely vibeless CVS on Chicago Ave. Join in, you know you wanna!Get silly with us on social:FOLLOW THE PODCASTInstagram: @pessimisticatbestFacebook: @pessimisticatbestWebsite: pessimisticatbest.comFOLLOW SAMInstagram: @samgeorgsonTikTok: @samgeorgsonTwitter: @samgeorgsonYouTube: @samgeorgsonWebsite: samanthageorgson.comFOLLOW MEGHANInstagram: @meghan.kathrynSupport the show

Chicago doesn't let you get comfortable—and that's the point. We sit down with K.E.N (Killing Every Note) to trace a path from grade-school poetry recitals to genre-bending records, hard-earned stage chops, and a mindset tuned to resilience over approval. He's reading The Courage to Be Disliked and living it out loud: letting go of instant validation, choosing intention over attention, and treating discomfort as a cue to level up.K.E.N breaks down the craft like a technician. He talks flow pockets, syllable choices, and how fast rap only works when it's melodic and clear. We get inside his performance philosophy—how the best sets start with reading the room, rehearsing with purpose, and building a moment people feel long after the last hook. Then we dig into the making of Limitations, a rock-leaning track that clicked only after he brought in Voxy the Artist to scream on the record and arranged those textures like instruments. It's a lesson in serving the song instead of ego.We also explore why local artists often stand in their own way, how to keep releasing when early responses are quiet, and why numbers mean more when pulled back into real-life scale. And yes, we go deep on the enduring power of Fuck That Nine To Five—why it resonates in every room, how he softened the delivery without losing bite, and what a two-plus-year push taught him about patience and payoff. Along the way, K.E.N shares what's next: a collab with Rhymster, teaching hip-hop at a Wicker Park school, a CAN TV performance, and a mysterious “draft number six.”Tap play, get energized, and bring your focus back to the work that matters. If you felt this one, share it with a friend, leave a review, and hit follow so you never miss an episode.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment.

What if love doesn't end when the relationship does? We sit down with coach Emma Galland for a candid, unfiltered journey through desire mismatch, asexuality, and the courage it takes to tell the truth even when it breaks the old container. Emma shares why her marriage ended without bitterness, how she and her ex kept a profound bond, and why radical honesty protects love while betrayal destroys it. We unpack jealousy, ego, and the myth of ownership—shifting from “you belong to me” to “we each belong to ourselves.” Along the way we explore monogamy as a cultural choice, not a biological default, and what it means to design a relationship that actually fits who you are.If you've ever struggled to talk about sex, Emma's tools will change your script. Learn the “couple bubble,” a structured space where partners speak without interruption, and discover how to normalize sexual check-ins so fantasies don't feel like landmines. We also get practical about libido: the big depressors (alcohol, smoking, certain drugs), why circulation is everything, and how leafy greens and nitric oxide support arousal for all genders. From tantra and sacred intention to voyeurism, nudity, and boundaries, this conversation blends anthropology, health, and real-life coaching into a toolkit you can use tonight.Expect clear language, zero shame, and actionable steps: ask what felt good, separate fantasy from action, question conditioning, and choose integrity over secrecy. Whether you're happily monogamous or curious about ethical nonmonogamy, these insights help you build trust, deepen intimacy, and stay true to yourself. If the episode moves you, tap follow, share with a friend who needs it, and drop a review telling us the one honest conversation you're ready to have.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment.

In Episode 149, hosts Alyce and Laura toast* to the comedic genius of Catherine O'Hara, Nightsisters inventing semaglutides, and daiquiri shacks (shaquiris? Is that anything?)We start by discussing the atrocities taking place in Minneapolis and the U.S. at large, and how our respective areas of the country are reacting. Just in case you have any doubts of where we stand, we supported the January 30 general strike and we're really f---ing pissed and sad about what's happening in Minneapolis.Laura shares an update on her other Star Wars show, The Jedi Way.The Caravan of Corrections do be caravaningThe torch has been passed! Kathleen Kennedy steps down from Lucasfilm and it is going to take 2 people to replace her, so yes, haters tell us more about how awful she is at her job *eye roll* (check out Deadline's exit interview with KK here)Speaking of retirement, we have FIRE plans. Long story short, Laura will open a Shaquiri and record weird noises from a beach, and Alyce will be at Chipotle.Formerly Darth. Now just Maul. Well, actually it's Maul: Shadow Lord now. He's many things - an aMAULgamation, if you will. Anyway, there's an article and poster and trailer, oh my! Alyce forgot about the Dave Filoni Star Wars Avengers/Heir to the Empire film lol. But there's a new rumor that's probably nothing, so whateverLEGO is putting microchips in bricks now. Or maybe they've been doing that for a while? Don't know, but they're doing it with Star Wars now. CAPITALISM! (via StarWarsNewsNet)We're really out of the loop on whatever Galaxy of Heroes is, but if you know what those words mean, there's an Andor update coming.If you can get your crotch goblins to sit still for a second, maybe they can meditate with Grogu  Recap on Tap: Ahsoka Again continues! Join us for a recap and discussion of Part 6: Far, Far Away, in which we galaxy-hop only to see a bunch of the same people from the last galaxy! Night Witches on Peridea: did they originate there or was that a bachelorette party gone wrong? Laura's toasting to toasting in her Toast To. Toast Inception. Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_LauraInstagram: @forcetoastpodBluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.socialEmail: forcetoastpod@gmail.comWebsite: forcetoastpod.com*This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

A single mixtape can hold a whole city. We sit down with Lia to unpack why Acid Rap still feels like Chicago's heartbeat—joyful, messy, vulnerable, and alive. From the juke-charged Intro to the windows-down freedom of Juice and the tender confession of Cocoa Butter Kisses, we trace how Chance captured a moment that outgrew the moment. It's not just nostalgia; it's a map of youth, where the block protects the artist, the hook carries the crowd, and the laughter in the ad-libs feels like friends in the room.We go deep on the context too. Early drill was rising, and Chance offered a parallel lens—same city, different angle—naming what it's like to be close to danger without performing it. Paranoia becomes the hinge, the summer song that says the quiet part out loud: loving warm weather while bracing for phone calls nobody wants. Lia shares a personal story of loss that changed how the record sounded over time, and we talk about how music can make space for grief without losing its joy. That tension—party and prayer, bounce and burden—is what gives the project its staying power.We also wrestle with evolution. Did sobriety temper the risk-taking that made Acid Rap electric, or did it open a new kind of honesty? Art-as-diary means the page reflects the day, and we explore how fans can honor an artist's growth without demanding a loop of the past. Along the way, we compare authentic Chicago texture with media that misses the mark, and we make a case for soul in the age of AI: you can model a cadence, but you can't automate stakes. If you've ever danced in the living room or felt a drumline pull strangers into family, you'll hear why this mixtape still matters.Press play, then tell us the line or track that never left you. If the conversation moves you, follow the show, share with a friend, and leave a review to help more listeners find us.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment.

In Episode 148, hosts Alyce and Laura are* impatient for Starfighter, for Ahsoka and for the Mando movie. The theme of the episode is WE'RE SICK OF WAITING!It's the first episode of the 2,026th year of when humans started counting yearsAlyce shares thoughts on the Stranger Things finale. Also she's an influencer now. You have been influenced. Who gives a sh-t about Tom Cruise, can we talk about how there's gonna be lightsabers in Star Wars: Starfighter?! (NYT via Variety)Will Season 2 of Ahsoka drop in 2026 after all? We don't know sh-t about Marvel anymore. We used to, but now we need someone to brief us on the last 3 years of content.This Mando movie poster came out back in September, but we missed it then, so we're gonna make fun of it nowThere's a new image featuring Sassy Din™ from the upcoming film, The Mandalorian and Grogu. But will the movie be worth the wait? We're bringing our Ahsoka Again segment into 2026 with our rewatch recap of Part 5: Shadow Warrior! Be advised this segment contains spoilers for the entire first season of Ahsoka.Teeth and war: Ahsoka Tano's legacyHimbo Anakin is annoyed that everyone is still mad about him turning evil and terrorizing the galaxy for 2 decades. He just wants Ahsoka and everyone to get over it, is that too much to ask? Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_LauraInstagram: @forcetoastpodBluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.socialEmail: forcetoastpod@gmail.comWebsite: forcetoastpod.com*This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

What if better sex has nothing to do with lasting longer, stacking positions, or chasing the perfect orgasm—and everything to do with presence? We sit down with tantric coach Emma Galland for a candid, eye‑opening conversation about turning intimacy into a grounded practice that starts with the self. Emma shares how slowing down, breathing, and setting a clear intention can transform connection, whether you're solo or partnered, new lovers or long‑time. This is sex as meditation, not performance.We get specific. Emma breaks down why men often ask for sex as a way to feel loved and respected, and how partners can create a safe container where edgy truths are welcomed instead of shamed. She explains the “couple bubble,” an agreement to listen without judgment, and shows how consent becomes deeply erotic when you ask the body—not just the mind—for a yes. We unpack the pressure around orgasms, the time mismatch most couples face, and why each person is responsible for their own arousal. Non‑ejaculatory orgasms, presence over performance, and practical breathwork make the theory usable tonight.The conversation expands into body image, naked yoga, and radical self‑acceptance. Emma highlights how dropping the performance mask—on the beach or in the bedroom—dissolves shame and unlocks more sensation. We also call out social media's role in selling the image of sex while hiding the actual skills of intimacy. If you're curious about tantra, consent, holding space, or simply want to feel more connected and confident, this episode offers a clear, human path forward with real‑world examples and tools you can try.If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs it, and leave a review so more people can find these conversations. Got questions for part two? Send them our way and join the dialogue.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment.

The mic opens on a check-in and turns into a masterclass on presence. Che' Afrique—singer, songwriter, and teacher—joins us to talk about becoming a better mother, paying attention to kids in a loud world, and why “being there” beats any illusion of balance. We dig into the moments parents miss, the power of boundaries, and how structure saves more futures than speeches ever will.From Boston classrooms to Chicago memories, Shea breaks down how education and edge shaped her voice. She takes us back to her first performances, the shaky hands that came with stage fright, and the mindset shift that turned critique into confidence. Then we get into the heart of craft: creativity, authorship, and the debate around ghostwriters. Che take is bold—give the pen its flowers, not just the face on the cover. Credit the creators, expand who gets seen, and let authenticity lead the sound.The standout story lands with “Not The One,” a heartbreak track born on New Year's Day, written through tears and recorded as a freestyle. That song became proof that vulnerability travels: men and women heard their own lives in it. We talk fame versus privacy, choosing fortune over endless cameras, and how artists can share truth without selling their peace. Along the way, we call out book bans, defend critical thinking, and map how to teach kids to question with respect. We close with property goals, an EP on deck, and a simple vow: keep pushing Black love—patient, purposeful, and present.Hit play, share with a friend, and tell us what you're working on internally. If this moved you, subscribe, leave a review, and pass it to someone who needs a nudge toward their own voice.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment.

Ever notice how the best artists don't just make noise—they guard their peace? We bring Teddy into the booth to talk about what it takes to create with intention when the world keeps pulling your focus. He unpacks the shift from reacting to responding, and why that one choice protects your energy, sharpens your decisions, and lets your music breathe.Teddy's path reads like a mixtape: born in Germany, raised across military bases, soaking up cultures from Kansas to Alaska to California before dropping anchor in Chicago. That movement shaped an ear that loves variety—family record crates, a grandmother who DJ'd in Chicago, and early moments of discovery that made hip-hop feel both personal and global. We dive into how context unlocks sound, why cadence matters as much as content, and how local scenes forge identity before the world catches on.We trace the grind from ciphers and hallway battles to a makeshift studio powered by a tape deck, PS2, and MTV Music Generator—then into Magix, Ableton, and Maschine. Along the way, we compare California and Chicago show ecosystems, the role of open mics in building an artist's voice, and the pride a city takes when its sound travels. We also face the industry head-on: streaming's reach vs. revenue, the early pioneers who took the heat for brand-building, and whether AI can polish a track yet still miss the human connection that turns songs into moments. We close with life lessons that carry into the studio: a healthy relationship as a place of growth, safety, and accountability—and a few laughs about love, loyalty, and even impossible deodorant.Pull up for craft, perspective, and a warm invite to Kitty's Cocktail Lounge Sunday Service in Blue Island. If you're into live music, community energy, and artists who put heart first, you'll feel at home. If this conversation moved you, subscribe, rate, and share it with a friend who needs a creative spark. Your support helps the culture grow.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment.

In Episode 147, hosts Alyce and Laura bid* 2025 adieu, sum up their silly holiday seasons and dive into all the Ahsoka action in a recap of episode 4!Alyce returns to her local avant-garde theater and it was full of chaos! And waffles!Analyzing and reviewing the many iterations of The GrinchWe finally learn what exactly the K-pop Demon Hunters are. They're on the Netflix. Ahsoka Season 2? We don't know her. Or her release date. Or anything. (via The Direct)A word-salad, non-update (nupdate?) on the Rey movie (via Collider)Vidya gamez newz and an Old Republic update all in one! Also we learn what a “mood piece” (aka, not a trailer?) is. (via Gamespot)An actual real update on Star Wars: Starfighter!In Recap on Tap, we're back with more Ahsoka Again! We've reached Part 4: Fallen Jedi, and things are really picking up! And by “picking up” of course we're referring to that scene where Baylan picks up Ahsoka and throws her off a cliff. You know that song from Dirty Dancing, She's Like the Wind? That's how we think of Marrok in Ahsoka. Except he's more like a fart than the wind. Someone should re-work that song for Marrok and call it He's Like a Fart.Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_LauraInstagram: @forcetoastpodBluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.socialEmail: forcetoastpod@gmail.comWebsite: forcetoastpod.com*This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

Happy Holidays! This is our first holiday episode this year! Listen while we discuss what is going on with Meredith, Everett and the rest of the clan! We discuss relationship dynamics when families are going through grief, importance of finding meaning and purpose in your life as well as those expensive shoes being broken willy nilly! This episode features Hannah and Brittney only and we missed our Ben while recording! Enjoy! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

In Episode 146, hosts Alyce and Laura find a few Star Wars news breadcrumbs and discuss* all the things they don't remember about the Ahsoka series (it's a lot of things).Thanksgiving rewiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiindWe never really thought about it, but it turns out The Volume technology isn't exclusive to Star WarsHot take: Star Wars: Starfighter will be as well received or better received by general audiences as Attack of the Clones“One of us! One of us!” is what was going through our heads as we read Henry Gilroy's recent comments about Sabine's Jedi turn in the Ahsoka series (via SWNN)Likely not news, but it's news to us: there are 2 new Star Wars books coming out next yearShawn Levy lets us all know that he's still having fun making his Star War and hasn't quit the movie (via Vanity Fair)Recap on Tap: Ahsoka Again! We're back for Part 3: Time to Filler, I mean, Time to Fly! We discuss the highs and lows, what worked and what didn't, live-action Jacen, Hera losing her cool, squabbles with senators, space walks, space whales and more!Wait, was Qui-Gon Jinn a racist boomer? Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_LauraInstagram: @forcetoastpodBluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.socialEmail: forcetoastpod@gmail.comWebsite: forcetoastpod.com*This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

In Episode 145, hosts Alyce and Laura take* a look back at Halloweens of yore and bring back their new segment: Ahsoka Again! Please be advised: temporary tattoos should not go on your faceHo phase and college days! Alyce had the best group Halloween costume back in the day.Shoutout to Mandoverse Updates on socials, we love your updates (Follow them on Bluesky)A brief discussion on The Mandalorian and Grogu: budget, Sigorney's role and more (via Inside the Magic)Shawn Levy REALLY wants you to know one key thing about Starfighter (via EW)If you're a Matt Smith fan, he gave a really long interview here, where he gave an update on his upcoming role in Star Wars: Starfighter.Pour one out for Star Wars Insider magazine (via starwars.com)In this episode's Recap on Tap: Ahsoka Again, we revisit Ahsoka Season 1, Part 2: Toil and Trouble. “Dark Jedi” are a thing according to AI, Hera gets messy, human women in Star Wars prove enormously talented at surviving stab wounds, and Sabine is Mary Poppins, y'all!Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_LauraInstagram: @forcetoastpodBluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.socialEmail: forcetoastpod@gmail.comWebsite: forcetoastpod.com*This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

In Episode 144, hosts Alyce and Laura are* feeling excited about Star Wars for the first time in a while! TV Talk. Everything is cancelled. The end. Welcome back to The Puddin' Pod. The podcast about pudding. Update: The Puddin' Pod has also been cancelled now. Some hints about how much Rotta the Hutt we can expect in “The Mandalorian and Grogu” filmMeg Dowell's spoiler-free review of Star Wars: The Last Order may convince Laura to start reading again.Tbh the most surprising thing about Adam Driver developing a whole a-- Star Wars movie is that it somehow never leaked. Seriously, how? (Variety via AP)Don't we all want a soundtrack to our life? Isn't that a universal desire? Apparently not…Somewhere, maybe from a rocket in outer space, George Lucas is fuming about Disney capitalizing on the Holiday Special.Step aside, Recap on Tap! We've got a new segment: Ahsoka Again! In ou visit, recap and review an episode of season one of the Ahsoka series. There will be spoilers for all of Season 1 of Ahsoka in each episode recap.In our first Ahsoka Again segment, join us as we revisit ep 1x1: Master and Apprentice, wherein Ahsoka can't handle spheres, autocorrect can't handle “Baylan,” Alyce finds a parallel, Laura is in a bubble and everyone can be related! Later, Bo!Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_LauraInstagram: @forcetoastpodBluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.socialEmail: forcetoastpod@gmail.comWebsite: forcetoastpod.com*This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

What if the biggest drain on your life is being “overly accessible”? We kick off with a raw check-in that flips the script on generosity and boundaries, then move through a life lived at full volume: growing up in South Dorchester, becoming a father young, and choosing values over vibes. The stories are sharp and funny, but the lessons cut deeper—protect your time, know your worth, and give your best to people who truly earn it.Nick T brings a wild arc: Division I athlete, young husband and dad, security pro, live streamer turned top 10 percent podcaster. He opens up about donating a kidney to his best friend's son and the brutal aftermath—sepsis, hospital stays, and choosing loyalty anyway. Along the way we unpack a real-world safety playbook for daughters on campus and in cities today, from rideshare risks to tracking tech and social engineering in public spaces. It's actionable, honest, and built from experience in security staffing.Then we wade into the online dating trenches. Catfish tactics, “travels for work” euphemisms, babysitter-payment scams, and the surprisingly high cost of modern courtship collide with practical rules that work: verify on video, never send money, spot red flags fast, and keep your standards. From there, we trace Nick's pivot from streaming burnout and clout-chasing to podcasting with purpose—creating community, amplifying other creators, and staying grounded when the numbers start popping.If you're juggling fatherhood, dating, and creative work while trying to stay true to yourself, this one hits home. Tap play, share it with a friend who needs tougher boundaries, and drop a review so more people can find the show. Subscribe for more candid conversations on relationships, safety, culture, and building a life that actually fits.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment.

Mike Stephen visits Yo Soy Ella's Curbside Compassion van to learn about their therapy services from founder and executive director Sarah Taylor, explores the new Takeout 25 Community Cookbook with founder Ravi Parakkat, and gets the lowdown on new music from local musician Terry White.

The official One Chicago Podcast kicks off with Jason Beghe, who has played Sergeant Hank Voight on Chicago P.D. since day one. He joins host Brian Luce, a former Chicago cop and current P.D. producer, to discuss their work on set, Voight's moral complexity, and the importance of telling the truth of the story. Production Designer Greg Van Horn, known on set as “Merlin,” also shares how he creates the iconic locations that bring the series to life. You can watch this interview on the One Chicago YouTube channel, and check out the season premieres of Chicago Med, Fire and P.D. Wednesday, October 1st starting at 8/7 Central on NBC and streaming on Peacock.

Mike Stephen rewinds to get the story of Chicago's Media Burn archive and the Center for Immigrant Progress and then discovers the Secret History of Panicsville.  AND we have a special announcement!

Host Brian Luce sits down with David Eigenberg to talk about his unexpected path to playing Christopher Herrmann, the behind-the-scenes camaraderie on Chicago Fire, and the time he singed his eyebrows on set. The episode also features the LeFevours, the legendary father-son stunt team, who share how they pull off some of the most unforgettable stunts on Chicago Fire and Chicago Med.

The official One Chicago Podcast kicks off with Jason Beghe, who has played Sergeant Hank Voight on Chicago P.D. since day one. He joins host Brian Luce, a former Chicago cop and current P.D. producer, to discuss their work on set, Voight's moral complexity, and the importance of telling the truth of the story. Production Designer Greg Van Horn, known on set as “Merlin,” also shares how he creates the iconic locations that bring the series to life.You can watch this interview on the One Chicago YouTube channel, and check out the season premieres of Chicago Med, Fire and P.D. Wednesday, October 1st starting at 8/7 Central on NBC and streaming on Peacock. For exclusive podcasts and more, sign up at Patreon.Sign up for our newsletter at crimewriterson.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Episode 143, hosts Alyce and Laura dig* deep to find Star Wars and Star Wars-adjacent news to discuss… outside of the Mando trailer, clearly we gotta get into that.Did you know Alyce is a low-key profesh cake decorator?They haven't even started making Space Balls 2 yet and they're already spoofing The Force AwakensIn a shameless effort to distract us from the Jimmy Kimmel firing fiasco (before it all got resolved), Disney dropped a trailer for The Mandalorian & Grogu. Are Star Wars fans reading too deep into this picture from the Ahsoka season 2 set? No way, Star Wars fans have never done that…Filming has officially wrapped on season 2 of the Ahsoka series (via SWNN)Bryce Dallas Howard discusses directing in Star Wars and why she keeps coming back (People via SWNN)  Remember when they canonized snow cones in Star Wars? TV Tangent CornerKiera Knightley is down for more Sabé stories, but the sequel trilogy era may not be the best option… (via Screenrant)Coincidence or conspiracy? Sabé isn't the only former handmaid who recently discussed the possibility of returning to a galaxy far, far away! (HappySadConfused podcast via Jedi News) Good shot, baby!Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_LauraInstagram: @forcetoastpodBluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.socialEmail: forcetoastpod@gmail.comWebsite: forcetoastpod.com*This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

The official One Chicago Podcast kicks off with Jason Beghe, who has played Sergeant Hank Voight on Chicago P.D. since day one. He joins host Brian Luce, a former Chicago cop and current P.D. producer, to discuss their work on set, Voight's moral complexity, and the importance of telling the truth of the story. Production Designer Greg Van Horn, known on set as “Merlin,” also shares how he creates the iconic locations that bring the series to life.You can watch this interview on the One Chicago YouTube channel, and check out the season premieres of Chicago Med, Fire and P.D. Wednesday, October 1st starting at 8/7 Central on NBC and streaming on Peacock. For exclusive content from Kevin and Rebecca, sign up on Patreon. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mike Stephen learns about the effort to end politically drawn voting maps in Illinois from Chicago Magazine writer Ted McClelland, discusses the slowdown in overturning wrongful convictions in Cook County with Injustice Watch reporter Dan Hinkel, and highlights the important work of Share Our Spare in supporting young children and families with interim executive director Jesseca Rhymes. Also, help out Chicago street vendors!

Mike Stephen learns about Chicago's new ordinance allowing accessory dwelling units in certain areas from Illinois Answers Project reporter Alex Nitkin, discusses the federal funding cuts to Chicago Public Schools with Chalkbeat Chicago bureau chief Becky Vevea, and gets the lowdown on how TaskForce works to promote inclusion on the city's West Side from communications director Hannah Pewee.

Two minutes in and you can hear it: this is soul built for feeling and for the floor. We sit with Spanish artist Carlos Abril to unpack the spark behind Love So Strong, the disco‑tinted energy of Sensational and Get Down, and the quiet discipline of slowing down so songs can actually breathe. He traces a line from Don Blackman and Sheik to present‑day production choices—live‑leaning strings, drums with pocket, arrangements that give DJs space to work—and explains why he writes like a diary: honest, specific, and not edited for the algorithm.We talk upbringing and how a small city with big support turned experimentation into a habit, not a risk. Stevie Wonder looms large—in lyric, arrangement, and sheer wonder—and that reverence becomes a north star for taste, not imitation. Carlos opens up about working mostly alone, catching himself before perfectionism breaks the vibe, and how a healthy relationship with yourself might be the most underrated tool in a songwriter's bag. The conversation stacks into a bigger theme: time beats money. With time, you write, practice, connect, and heal. Without it, even a budget can't buy you voice.For selectors and heads, there's plenty here: DJ‑friendly intros, the logic of long mixes, and why modern soul thrives when club intent meets headphone detail. Looking ahead, Carlos teases a debut album that folds in folk colors, Brazilian sway, and a touch of psychedelic haze—Motown uplift filtered through his own compass. If you've been craving groove with heart, hooks with heritage, and stories that feel lived‑in, this one's for you.Stream the episode, add the tracks to your playlist, and tell a friend who needs a lift. If you enjoy the show, tap follow, share a clip, and leave a quick review—your support helps more people find the music that moves them.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment.

Mike Stephen gets an update on the latest Chicago TIF numbers from Tom Tresser of the TIF Illumination Project, chats with local musician Carlo Basile about his local music with a worldwide influence, and previews the Back Fine Art Faire with Patricia Andrews-Keenan, founder of Pigment International.

What if the biggest relationship breakdown in your life became your greatest breakthrough? In this raw and revealing episode, certified Integrated Attachment Theory Coach Brian Power takes us on a journey through the invisible forces that shape our connections with others.Brian shares his personal story of relationship collapse—complete with a restraining order and temporary separation from his son—that ultimately transformed into healing and reconciliation. With remarkable vulnerability, he explains how childhood abandonment wounds from his father's absence created patterns that sabotaged his adult relationships until he finally confronted them.The conversation explores the four attachment styles (secure, anxious preoccupied, dismissive avoidant, and fearful avoidant) and how they manifest in everyday relationship behaviors. From checking a partner's phone to appearing emotionally unavailable, these patterns signal deeper wounds begging for attention. The most powerful revelation? The qualities that trigger us most in our partners often mirror our own unhealed trauma.Through practical exercises and insights, Brian demonstrates how we can reprogram subconscious patterns within 21 days of consistent practice. He breaks down the six core elements needed for healing: addressing wounds, identifying needs, processing emotions, establishing boundaries, improving communication, and changing behaviors.Whether you're struggling in a current relationship, healing from a past one, or preparing for future connections, this episode offers both compassion and practical tools for transformation. The path forward isn't about finding perfect partners—it's about becoming more whole ourselves so we can create the deep, secure connections we all desire.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: The SHITTS Podcast. Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart Radio. Subscribe and comment.

Mike Stephen discusses the results of a new report on how Chicago gets its news with Medill professors Tim Franklin and Stephanie Edgerly, gets a preview of some upcoming local events about the brain from Illinois Science Council founder Monica Metzler, and discovers the Secret History of Lani Hall.

In Episode 142, hosts Alyce and Laura find* a possible new career path for Alyce: Star Wars movie prop auction item appraiser… or fortune teller. It's between those two options.Anyone else loving Foxy Knoxy on Hulu?Prop Watch is over (for now)! One of us guessed almost exactly right and the other one… did notWhy do we keep forgetting that Maul: Shadow Lord is going to be a thing? The people yearn for more Hondo Ohnaka (via The Direct)Oscar Isaac may be on the hunt for a new/another house (via GamesRadar, this Deadline article also mentioned)We probably should have listened to the podcast to get the full context, but this recent interview with a certain SW showrunner is… confusing (via GamesRadar)Today's segment of Star Wars Capitalism is here to deck the halls of your hopefully-high ceiling household this holiday seasonSebulba lives! A brief overview of the Dug species. Because why not?Alyce learns what a meta quest is! Laura misses The Void VR experience! But maybe this Beyond Victory thing will scratch that itch? Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_LauraInstagram: @forcetoastpodBluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.socialEmail: forcetoastpod@gmail.comWebsite: forcetoastpod.com*This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

Mike Stephen discusses the work being done to avoid a transit fiscal cliff in Illinois with state representative Kam Buckner (26th) and John Greenfield, editor of Streetsblog Chicago. Then, John Howard Association executive director Jennifer Vollen-Katz discusses new “emergency” rules put in place to regulate communication with those who are incarcerated in state prisons.

In Episode 141, hosts Alyce and Laura demand* justice for Luke's cancelled Tosche Station plans. Those power converters aren't going to pick up themselves!Beware, movie prop auction houses have hidden fees for those buying $2 million lightsabers. Rich people - they're just like us!If an Allen Wrench is good enough for film-grade lightsabers, it's good enough for your Ikea bookshelf.I guess we can finally be confident that Star Wars: Starfighter will actually get made (I mean, it has a cast and everything now).Auntie Alyce, The Elder: Mullet ExpertAh yes, the classic villain in Ahsoka season 1: Babylon. Babylon Skull will return in S2. That was definitely his name.Speaking of, should we do an Ahsoka S1 re-watch? We're thinking we should do an Ahsoka S1 re-watch. Some folks have seen a sneak peak of season 3 of Star Wars Visions and we particularly enjoyed this review of what was shown at Anime NYC.No more streaming series for you! Now it's just trilogies on trilogies. Thanks to Sal of Rogue Rebels for the Throwback to Celebration 2016! Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_LauraInstagram: @forcetoastpodBluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.socialEmail: forcetoastpod@gmail.comWebsite: forcetoastpod.com*This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

In Episode 140, hosts Alyce and Laura and the set of Attack of the Clones may have* accidently created a new superhero: Super Pipe Cart Man!Matt Smith is joining the Dark Side of the Star Wars universe! Hey, haven't we heard that story before? (Deadline exclusive)More Lego Star Wars silliness is on the way! Check out the trailer!First came the Mando-verse, now we're [allegedly] getting a Rey-verse? Some new reveals about the original cut of Rogue One, courtesy of Alan TudykThe internet is just a big game of Telephone, which is essentially why some people thought Obi-Wan was going to show up in Ahsoka… or is he?No, but really. What would actually happen if an actor spilled the spoiler tea about an upcoming project? Ron Howard is not here to start drama (unlike SOME people we know)Imagine being so good at your job, they have to use movie magic to slow you down (via Collider)Laura can't decide if she's more embarrassed for Disney or GC with this lawsuit settlement. Fortunately, Alyce has a casting solution.You gotta be Rich Rich (one Rich isn't enough) to get this Death Star LEGO set that is allegedly coming soon.Helpful links referenced in this episode:On the most recent episode of The Jedi Way, John Rocha and Laura discuss Matt Smith and the alleged Rey-verse. Find it on YouTube here! Laura Kelly and Alex Damon joined Gustavo on Triad of the Force for a High Republic retrospective: all three phases, what worked for us, and our thoughts on Trials of the Jedi! Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_LauraInstagram: @forcetoastpodBluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.socialEmail: forcetoastpod@gmail.comWebsite: forcetoastpod.com*This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

In Episode 139, hosts Alyce and Laura forgot* what happened in Ahsoka, and Keeve Trennis is all up in her feelings.The History of the Mandela Effect and how it relates to Star Wars (via GoodHousekeeping)In a follow up to last week's episode, more about the award-winning dog ballsProp Watch! Prop auctions are interesting to us. So we're gonna talk about it. (via Yahoo)Star Wars' 50th anniversary is coming up… in two years. But Disney wants you to mark your calendar now to make sure you have no conflicts, I guess?Maul looks like Maul and live-action Ezra had a shower (via IGN) Hopefully everyone who attended the publishing panel at SDCC had fun, but it seemed like the news was uh…. slim pickins.Sounds like George Lucas' museum is gonna be cool as hell (via IGN)Movie rumor roundup! Is the guy from Not Another Teen Movie gonna be in Star Wars? Where are things with the Rey movie? More Hayden in S2 of Ahsoka, or is everyone reaching? If anyone at Hulu asks, Alyce lives in a giant mansion.Everything comes full circle with movie ratingsRecap on Tap: The High Republic goes out with an emotionally-muted bang in the comic, The Beacon. This discussion includes SPOILERS for the comic AND spoilers for Trials of the Jedi. Skip 35:40-46:35 to avoid. Plus, Alyce's initial, spoiler-free thoughts on The Acolyte: Wayseeker.Helpful links referenced in this episode:Upcoming guest spot alert! Keep an eye on the Rogue Rebels feed for Sal, Alyce and Laura's review/discussion on The High Republic: Trials of the Jedi!Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_LauraInstagram: @forcetoastpodBluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.socialEmail: forcetoastpod@gmail.comWebsite: forcetoastpod.com*This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!

Listen, btch! It's a podcast! In Episode138, hosts Alyce and Laura enter* neuter territory. No, that's not a typo. Some dude is making a bunch of money off of fake animal testicles. There's another Star Wars prop auction coming up. Will this one flop too? SDCC is coming up and you know what that means! New Star Wars action figures and exclusives. Also George Lucas is going to be on a panel at Comic-Con? Ugh, another one (three?) bites the dust. (via Rolling Stone) Andor got a bunch of Emmy nominations! And not to be forgotten if it was kind of just a footnote/afterthought in this article, The Acolyte got one too.This week, Alyce is the one that can't read good. There must always be one host that can't read good but can do other things good. Reylo Rising! Shippers, rejoice, your favorite fan fic is becoming a movie!All buff dudes look the same. The new Superman, like the old Superman, is a giant nerd. One of us! One of us!The BD-1 droids at Galaxy's Edge are the cutest d*mn things we've ever seenVernestra is a our petty Jedi queenUp until now, we've only scratched the surface on The High Republic: Trials of the Jedi, but now we are entering spoiler territory! Alyce finished the book so let's dive deeper Twitter: @forcetoastpod | @sLeiaAllDay | @ShutUp_LauraInstagram: @forcetoastpodBluesky: forcetoastpod.bsky.socialEmail: forcetoastpod@gmail.comWebsite: forcetoastpod.com*This podcast contains a sh!t ton of profanity and boozin. You can find a bleeped version of this podcast absolutely nowhere. Cheers!