Podcast appearances and mentions of monica eng

Nick welcomes journalist Monica Eng back to the podcast to talk about some of the stories she’s been covering for Axios Chicago, including the latest developments in Chicago politics, Governor Pritzker’s views on data centers and their environmental impact, Pilates classes that can help get you in shape, the growing concerns surrounding e-scooter safety, great local food, Lake Michigan dips, and more. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick for another round of kids’ TV trivia, where they figure out who Skeeter Valentine is and come to the conclusion that That’s So Raven is basically The Dead Zone for kids. They also chat about the differences between wallabies and kangaroos, Chicago’s brutal weather, and a variety of other wonderfully random topics. [Ep 463]

Nick welcomes Monica Eng from Axios Chicago to talk about some of the stories she's been covering lately, including problems with Cook County electronic monitoring, an update on how kids are doing in CPS, the best spots around town to see and smell lilacs, the history of her great-grandfather's jazz club, the PopUp Bagels versus New York-style bagel debate, and more. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to celebrate a few historic moments tied to May 15th, including the founding of Las Vegas, the debut of Mickey Mouse, and the birth of McDonald's, along with its original mascot, Speedee. [Ep 455]

Former Chicago mayoral candidate Paul Vallas is fined for violating campaign finance rules. Mayor Johnson announces plans to meet with Pope Leo XIV in Rome. Lawyers for residents of the South Shore apartment building raided during Operation Midway Blitz seek millions in damages from the federal government. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more with WBEZ education reporter Sarah Karp, Axios Chicago reporter Monica Eng and NBC 5 political and investigative reporter Paris Schutz. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Have you thanked a journalist lately?Coming off one of the most challenging years ever for local U.S. reporters, the historic 19th Century Club in Oak Park gathered a panel of journalists—and a gerontologist—to assess the present and future of local news, with your Chicago Public Square publisher as a moderator.And now, in a Square podcast, hear how it went, May 9, 2026—with Monica Eng of Axios Chicago; Manny Ramos of Block Club Chicago; Max Reinsdorf, general manager of the Newswell Chicago newspapers; and gerontologist Dr. Lydia Manning.Listen here, or on Spotify, Pandora, YouTube, Amazon's Alexa-powered speakers or Apple Podcasts.If you prefer to watch your podcasts, here's video of the session, produced by John Roberts and Edward Pitts of Absolute Streaming. ■ Enjoying these podcasts? Reader support makes them possible.■ And consider subscribing—free—to the daily Square email newsletter._____Photos, left to right: Meyerson, Manning, Eng, Ramos, Reinsdorf.Photographer: Todd Bannor.Raw audio: John Roberts and Edward Pitts, Absolute Streaming.

Property tax bills remain a headache for thousands of Chicagoans, as tech issues continue to delay bill arrivals. We ask the Tribune's A.D. Quig and Axios Chicago's Monica Eng, who is to blame for this decade-long snafu. Plus, prosecutors weigh possible Midway Blitz investigations, Illinois farmers are struggling, and Unity Day 2026 is back in Englewood. Good News: 1920s Chinese jazz cafe, “Oh, Mary!” Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this May 1 episode: Steppenwolf Theatre Paramount Theatre Visit Bloomington TimeLine Theatre Co Newberry Library Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Nick welcomes Monica Eng to talk about a range of stories she's been covering for Axios.com, including tipped minimum wage in Chicago, geriatric gymnastics, great happy hour deals around the city, the reopening of the beloved dance club Berlin, human composting, how to handle a flooded road, and more. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to revisit some pop culture moments from the 90s and 00s that probably should have stayed in the past. They get into things like French kissing Jar Jar Binks, the real dangers of Skydancers, the questionable haircuts and fat suits on Friends, and even Right Said Fred somehow being too sexy for their cat. [Ep 447]

Efforts begin to rename Pilsen's Cesar Chavez Post Office. Chicago launches a citywide program allowing homeowners to add additional dwelling units. Meanwhile, housing advocates announce plans to sue Chicago Housing Authority over last month's CEO appointment. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in our Weekly News Recap. Our panel today: Block Club Chicago reporter Quinn Myers; Monica Eng, Chicago reporter for AXIOS; and Sun-Times reporter Kaitlin Washburn. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Monica Eng, reporter with Axios Chicago, joins Lisa Dent to discuss Illinois lawmakers discussing human composting. Human composting is a process of turning human remains into soil. The body is placed in a specially designed vessel and surrounded with natural materials. The process yields about a cubic yard of soil, including composted plant matter.

Axios reporter Monica Eng joins Bob Sirott to talk about the variety of cultural cuisine on Dempster Street and some of the places she tried, including Larsa Mediterranean Grill and Pizzeria, Dosa Point, and Pita Inn. Freelance journalist Ari Bendersky also joins Bob to share some of his favorite spots on Chicago Avenue, like Flo, […]

Nick welcomes Monica Eng from Axios back to break down the latest Chicago election results, including the surprises, the clear winners, and the people who didn't have a great night. Monica also shares a moment she'd probably like back, mispronouncing a Led Zeppelin song on TV, and tells the story of her “Dempster Dive,” where she worked her way down four miles of Dempster Street sampling food from 20 different cultures. She also talks about seeing “Madama Butterfly” at the Lyric Opera and gets into the realities of being a tipped worker in the city. Esmeralda Leon joins Nick later and the conversation turns to some of the worst excuses people have ever given for missing work. Things get ridiculous fast, with stories involving a vomiting llama, a swarm of bees, and plenty of other excuses that probably didn't hold up. It's news, food, opera, and complete nonsense, all in one episode. [Ep 439]

Six Illinois Democrats boycott President Trump's State of the Union address. Meanwhile, Governor Pritzker demands a $8.6 billion refund for Illinois taxpayers after the Supreme Court rules against Trump tariffs. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more with Axios Chicago reporter Monica Eng, WTTW anchor and host Brandis Friedman and WBEZ investigative reporter Dan Mihalopoulos. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Nick catches up with Monica Eng from Axios to talk through the stories she's been covering lately. They get into Governor J. B. Pritzker's push for new nuclear power facilities in Illinois, ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year, and the annual joy of Paczki Day. Monica also shares thoughts on the new production of “Hamnet” at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, her first experience trying a Dirty Soda, and highlights from a recent trip to Puerto Rico. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick for a loose, funny catch-up that turns into a debate about traditions that might be past their expiration date. The handshake gets questioned, and class reunions get a full breakdown, complete with stories and strong opinions. It's news, food, travel, and a little social commentary, all rolled into one easy conversation. [Ep 431]

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson defends an executive order that requires Chicago police to help hold ICE agents accountable for alleged abuses. Marimar Martinez, a Chicago woman shot by Border Patrol, speaks out in an exclusive WBEZ-Sun-Times interview and on Capitol Hill. Meanwhile, Reshona Landfair, the Jane Doe in R. Kelly's infamous tape, is out with a memoir, Who's Watching Shorty?, where she tells her story and “reclaims her name.” In the Loop goes behind the headlines of those and other state and local stories Better Government Association president David Greising, Axios Chicago reporter Monica Eng and Chicago Sun-Times reporter Violet Miller. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Nick welcomes Monica Eng back for her first visit of 2026, catching up as she prepares for a colonoscopy and somehow still manages to be the hungriest person in the room. The conversation moves through the latest local and national stories she's been covering for Axios, along with a rundown of the ten best things she ate in 2025 and five Chicago-area restaurants she's watching closely. There's also a sober moment on how everyday costs keep creeping up for Chicagoans, even when the food is great. Esmeralda Leon joins Nick later to unpack a federal class-action lawsuit against McDonald’s over the McRib and its lack of actual rib meat. That opens the floodgates to a fast food rabbit hole, with stories and laughs about some of the strangest menu items ever unleashed on the public. It's a mix of sharp reporting, food obsession, and just enough legal absurdity to keep things moving. [Ep 419]

We’re toasting 2026 with whiskeys and liqueurs around the world. There’s a new favorite Irish whiskey, a liqueur that causes you to make a sour face, a drink made from cacti, and the signature drink of Estonia. [Ep 370] Show Notes: Destination Eat Drink foodie travel guides Destination Eat Drink blog Rick’s publishing company Eckhartz Press David Hammond and Monica Eng’s book Made in Chicago Simon Bajada’s website Simon’s book Malta: Mediterranean Recipes from the Islands Discover Estonia food tours

Nick welcomes Axios Chicago's Monica Eng for a rundown of the stories she has been digging into lately, starting with the city budget and the complicated process required to get it passed. She also highlights a handful of terrific local gift shops for holiday shopping, the recent WBEZ power outage, and new data on CPS college enrollment. The conversation gets delightfully seasonal with a defense of pickled herring and a story about how Monica managed to get snowy bike lanes plowed through sheer persistence. Esmeralda Leon joins Nick afterward to catch up on life and mark National Stretching Day with the kind of chat that makes even basic self-care sound like a group project. She also shares her enthusiasm for a standout Netflix documentary on the legendary Mexican singer Juan Gabriel, a recommendation that quickly becomes its own mini conversation. [Ep 411]

Chicago's budget showdown continues, Indiana's legislature bucks Trump redistricting trend, and ICE agents were out in force in west suburban Elgin. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in the Weekly News Recap. Our panel today: Tom Schuba, Chicago Sun-Times watchdog reporter; Monica Eng, Axios reporter; David Greising, Better Government Association president. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Chicago is now fully in holiday mode, so we're back with our holiday edition of the one-star review game! Host Jacoby Cochran quizzed Axios Chicago reporters Carrie Shepherd and Monica Eng last year. Can they guess these popular Chicago holiday attractions based on their one-star Yelp reviews? 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 Dec. 4 episode:  The Auditorium Dandelion Bev Ed Uniting Voices Chicago Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

In the last few weeks, we have talked about some iconic Chicago staples, whether it's a deep dive into the world of Vienna Beef or a shout-out to a 50-year-old sub sandwich. That got us thinking about all the other iconic Chicago sammies. Axios reporter Monica Eng and host Jacoby Cochran linked up earlier this year to rank eight Chicago sandwiches. From the sweetsteak to the jibarito to the Italian beef, which one is No. 1? Good News: Real Ones Show Community Events Round Up 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 If you enjoyed today's interview with Composer Steve Hackman, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this Nov. 12 episode:  The Newberry Paramount Theatre Babbel – Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Nick kicks things off with some exciting news about his brand-new book, “40 YEARS, 40 FILMS,” available from Eckhartz Press. Then he welcomes Monica Eng from Axios Chicago to discuss local stories like the 100-mile border rule, the Gregory Bovino hearing and its surprising outcome, and why grocery store tacos deserve way more respect. They also debate Chicago's greatest hometown celebrities before turning to a heartfelt tribute to their late friend Tony Fitzpatrick. Monica shares moving stories and plays touching audio from her final hospital visit with Tony — wise, funny, and beautiful words from a true Chicago original. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick for a spirited Halloween celebration, revisiting some of the most iconic costumes through the decades and sharing laughs over Nick's favorite horror movies of all time. It's heartfelt, funny, spooky, and full of Chicago soul. [Ep 399]

Millions of Americans were in the streets over the weekend, rallying against President Donald Trump and his administration's latest authoritarian escalations. Organizers for the 'No Kings' protests said more than 7 million people turned out to more than 2,700 pro-democracy rallies across the country. Republicans tried their best to demonize the protesters saying the "hate America" demonstrations would be filled with radicals and violence. But, as it turns out, the protests were almost entirely peaceful. Chicago, Illinois, a focal point for the administration's crackdown on immigration, was just one of the cities that saw people gather in solidarity against Trump. So to talk more about the latest regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the back and forth on National Guard deployment, and what's really happening on the ground there, we spoke with Monica Eng. She covers Chicago for Axios.And in headlines, the Israel-Hamas ceasefire faces its first major test, Trump says he's ending financial aid to one of the country's closest Latin America allies, and the government shutdown stretches into a new week.Show Notes:Check out Monica's work – www.axios.com/authors/mengCall Congress – 202-224-3121Subscribe to the What A Day Newsletter – https://tinyurl.com/3kk4nyz8What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcastFollow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nick welcomes journalist Monica Eng from Axios back to the podcast to dig into some of her latest stories. They cover the looming possibility of the National Guard coming to Chicago, updates on how to get your Covid vaccine, the opening of a new restaurant at Bally's in River North, and why Aldi might just be the best place on earth (yes, even with self-checkout). Monica also shares her thoughts on the serene beauty of the Caldwell Lily Pool. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick for a fun segment on weekend plans, the arrival of Halloween, and another dive into 90s pop culture. They revisit the name of the Fresh Prince's beloved butler, debate who was really behind “The Slap Heard Around the World,” and more nostalgic gems. [Ep 387]

Nick welcomes Monica Eng from Axios Chicago for another wide-ranging conversation on the stories shaping the city. They cover local politics, a trip to the legendary Steak N Egger, Burrito Beach turning 30, new restaurants outside the Joliet casino, the best Korean dumplings on Pulaski, and key updates from CPS as a new school year begins. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick for laughs and nostalgia. They chat about Joliet casinos, the reboot of Hollywood Squares with Drew Barrymore, and the end of AOL dial-up. The episode also revisits 90s pop culture staples—from Now That's What I Call Music! and The Macarena to the truly terrifying Furby. [Ep 379]

Monica Eng, reporter for Axios, joins Lisa Dent to talk about the Federal changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP. Under the provisions in the ‘Big Beautiful Bill,’ 360,000 Illinois residents risk losing SNAP benefits. Eng shares who might be affected and the financial cost of the changes for the state.

This week on Chewing, we talk about babes, pizza, and hot stuff. First, Monica talks to My Pi pizza founder Larry Aronson about his last pizzeria closing in Chicago after 54 years. Then, Professor Steve Balkin talks about the death of Maxwell Street as he makes Monica some homemade matzo brie. Lastly, James Park talks about his cookbook “Chili Crisp: 50+ Recipes to Satisfy Your Spicy, Crunchy, Garlicky Cravings.” chewing.xyz chicagotribune.com/chewingpodcast facebook.com/chewingpodcast Insta Louisa Chu @louisachu1 Monica Eng @monicaengreporter   Links: Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites by Monica Eng and David Hammond   Music: Theme music: “Zhong Nan Hai” by Carsick Cars  Outro music: “15 Minutes Older” by Carsick Cars Segments: “Be Sweet” (Korean Version) by Japanese Breakfast feat. So!YoON!  “Heart of Gold” by Neil Young “Look In My Eyes” by The Chantels “Life is but a Dream” by The Harptones “Hot Sauce” by NCT Dream

Monica Eng, reporter with Axios Chicago, joins Lisa Dent to discuss an uptick in ICE arrests of non-criminal immigrants.

A Midwest heat wave continues, Gov. JB Pritzker launches his campaign for a third term, hundreds rally for trans rights, and more. Reset goes behind the headlines of those stories and much more in our Weekly News Recap. Our panel today: Monica Eng, Axios reporter; Cindy Hernandez, Chicago Sun-Times general assignment reporter; Mack Liederman, Block Club Chicago reporter. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.

Chicago has invented or popularized so many iconic foods that we can't cover them all in one episode. So let's just focus on the sandwiches. Axios reporter Monica Eng and host Jacoby Cochran are ranking eight iconic sandwiches. But from the sweetsteak to the jibarito to Italian beef, which one is no. 1? 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 June 18 episode: Babbel – Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Monica Eng, reporter with Axios Chicago, joins Lisa Dent to discuss the increase in lead levels in the water of 72 communities in Illinois. Eng encourages people in affected communities to let faucets run for 5 minutes after several hours of non-use before ingesting any water.

Steve King and Johnnie Putman are back for tons of music, Malort and motor related goodness! Our first guest is Monica Eng, Author and Axios reporter with some real reporting on the Real ID, Chicago’s impending curfew law after an influx of late night “teen takeovers” and the obligatory food jones, if you consider Malort […]

Nick welcomes the always-lovely Monica Eng from Axios Chicago to chat about a range of uniquely Chicago topics, including Aldi's surprising fine-dining options, Potbelly stepping things up with their new prime rib sandwich, the controversial speed cameras on LSD, and the ever-present challenges (and horrors) of riding the CTA Red Line. They also dive into the bizarre world of Malört candy and share details about an upcoming Axios event featuring Maria Pappas and Lori Lightfoot. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to catch up, answer listener emails, and revisit some of the most bizarre events from the very strange year of 2017—including the story of a man who had a 130-pound growth surgically removed, a growth that began as an ingrown hair...yes, really. [Ep 346]

Nick welcomes journalist, author, food writer, and Axios Chicago contributor Monica Eng to the podcast to share her memories of watching Saturday Night Live as a kid, what really makes her laugh, and how SNL helped shape her sense of humor. Monica reflects on her cheerleading days, her love for Jerry Lewis movies, and the influence of her hilarious Puerto Rican aunts—who even inspired a couple of her favorite sketches. She also reveals her Top 5 SNL Sketches of All Time, featuring the comedic brilliance of Gilda Radner, Cheri Oteri, Will Ferrell, Tom Hanks, Andy Samberg, Molly Shannon, and more. And yes—Monica delivers a spot-on Roseanne Roseannadanna impression, and you'll hear it. A fun, nostalgic, and laugh-filled conversation with a good friend and a great writer. [Ep 116]

This week on Chewing, we talk about international street food. First, Monica talks to Faraz Sardharia about his new restaurant Rickshaw Pakistani & Indian Street Eats, which raises funds for unhoused people in Chicago. Monica also talks to women's rights advocate Rohini Dey about transforming her pioneering modern Indian restaurant Vermilion into a women-centric “cocktail den” called Sanctuary in River North. Then, Monica talks to Steven Marks, the American who co-founded the Mexican restaurant chain Guzman y Gomez in Australia that's now invading Chicago's suburbs. Finally, Louisa talks to India Jenkins, the owner of The Corned Beef Hideout and the creator of spicy jerk corned beef sandwich called That Jerk, but will they eat it?!   chewing.xyz chicagotribune.com/chewingpodcast facebook.com/chewingpodcast Insta Louisa Chu @louisachu1 Monica Eng @monicaengreporter   Links: Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites by Monica Eng and David Hammond   Music: Theme music: “Zhong Nan Hai” by Carsick Cars Outro music: “15 Minutes Older” by Carsick Cars

Reporter with Axios Chicago, Monica Eng, joins Lisa Dent to discuss how Midwest farmers are being affected by President Trump’s new tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China that are set to begin on April 2nd.

Nick welcomes Monica Eng from Axios Chicago to the podcast to discuss some of her latest stories, including the challenges undocumented people are facing with ICE, how the Mayor fared on his recent trip to D.C., and whether Rahm Emanuel is really staging a political comeback. They also dive into Fat Tuesday treats, top-tier fish sandwiches, the best ripple chips, and a new slang term the kids are using for hot dogs. Then, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to chat about the wild weather, the adventure of getting a Real ID before the deadline, and, of course, the rising use of the word "Glizzy" to describe a hot dog. They also explore other hilariously misleading food terms in a fun, fast-moving conversation. [Ep 330]

Award-winning Chicago reporter with Axios Chicago Monica Eng joins Lisa Dent on the show to discuss how local business leaders are urging the Trump administration to update immigration policy that don’t involve mass deportation. Listen in while Monica shares details surrounding a new campaign called “Secure Our Borders and Secure Our Workforce” which was launched […]

Monica Eng, reporter for Axios, comes on the show to talk with Lisa Dent about her 5 favorite dishes in 2024. From turmeric soups to dobladas, the two talk about all the best dishes to get in Chicago.

This week on Chewing, we talk about plants, Feld, and krill. First, Monica talks to Washington Post Food and Dining editor — and bestselling author — Joe Yonan about his new book, "Mastering the Art of Plant-Based Cooking"! Then Louisa talks to the chef and owner of one of the most polarizing new restaurants in Chicago — and former guest of Chewing, Jake Potashnick of Feld. Monica talks to the owner of Fry the Coop about why he only uses beef fat when frying. Lastly, Monica dares Louisa and Iris to taste canned krill — best known as whale food — but will they eat it?! chewing.xyz chicagotribune.com/chewingpodcast facebook.com/chewingpodcast Insta Louisa Chu @louisachu1 Monica Eng @monicaengreporter   Links: Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites by Monica Eng and David Hammond   Music: Theme music: “Zhong Nan Hai” by Carsick Cars Outro music: “15 Minutes Older” by Carsick Cars Segments:  "Garden (Say It like Dat)" by SZA  “Big Cheese” by Nirvana “Spice Up Your Life” by Spice Girls “Shake Hands With Beef” by Primus

Nick welcomes Monica Eng from Axios.com back to the podcast to discuss the latest issues surrounding the mayor and the budget, wild boat rides, the changing tipping habits of diners, and Monica's rundown of the best things she ate in 2024. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to contemplate the charm of the Santa Tracker and reflect on the anticlimactic flop that was Y2K. Esma also shares her experience of enjoying great sushi delivered by a robot waitress on a bullet train. They wrap up by revisiting A Taste of History and indulging in some amazing chocolate. [Ep310]

With holiday festivities in full swing, we're back with our one-star review game! Host Jacoby Cochran is quizzing Axios Chicago reporters Carrie Shepherd and Monica Eng. Can they guess these popular Chicago holiday attractions based on their one-star Yelp reviews? Voting in the Reader's Best of Chicago is open! Vote City Cast Chicago as Best Podcast and Hey Chicago as Best Email Newsletter. 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 Dec. 5 episode: The Second City Paramount Theatre - CityCast for $5 off of up to 4 tickets! BetterHelp - Get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

From savory waffles made from stuffing to pie for breakfast to soul food egg rolls, the possibilities for Thanksgiving leftovers are endless. Reset gets tips from parenting blogger Jenny LeFlore and Monica Eng, Chicago reporter for Axios and host of the Chewing podcast. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.

Nick welcomes Monica Eng from Axios Chicago to the podcast to chat about some of the stories she's covering, including the Advent calendar craze at Aldi, the city's crackdown on people parking or standing in bike lanes, where Trump won the majority of the vote in Chicago, and how Michigan is cutting into Illinois' weed sales. Then, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to discuss the quirks of eating at a stranger's house (like discovering they don't have Kool-Aid or use Karo syrup on pancakes), how franchised stores sometimes make up their own rules, and the return of see-through glass cooler doors at Walgreens. They also continue their Italian snack taste test! [Ep298]

This week on Chewing, we talk about how sisters are doing it for sustainability! First, Monica talks to legendary author and editor Ruth Reichl about her new documentary film Food and Country. Then, we talked to Hewn Bread founder Ellen King and Volition Tea founder Annie Xiang about their big expansions. Finally, Monica talked to Upside Food COO Amy Chen who offered Monica a taste of their cultivated meat, but did she eat it? Lastly, a new bonus segment with a new jingle!   chewing.xyz chicagotribune.com/chewingpodcast facebook.com/chewingpodcast Insta Louisa Chu @louisachu1 Monica Eng @monicaengreporter   Links: Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites by Monica Eng and David Hammond   Music: Theme music: “Zhong Nan Hai” by Carsick Cars  Outro music: “15 Minutes Older” by Carsick Cars Segments:  “A Better Future” by David Bowie "Bread and Butter" by The Newbeats “Tea For Two (with Choir and Orchestra)” by Doris Day “Cup Of Tea” by Kacey Musgraves “Cells” by They Might Be Giants “Chicken” by Pixies “Le Grand café” by Charles Trenet

Nick welcomes Monica Eng from Axios.com to discuss some of the stories she's currently covering, including Next Restaurant's recreation of Charlie Trotter's classic menu, the buzz around the $10 strawberry from Whole Foods, Chicago's most annoying intersections, potential natural disasters that could strike the area, and the need for ShotSpotter technology in the city. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to chat about submarine movies featuring scenes where Gene Hackman gets punched. They also finish their quiz about Korea, fulfill a Magic Megaphone request, and taste test a unique snack. Plus, they dive into some details about a classic haunted house in Chicago. [Ep286]

This week, Monica and Louisa talk Honey and Fun Guys. First, Monica went to the inaugural George R.R. Martin Summer Intensive Writing Workshop, where she made Malaysian rice balls with fellow fellow, Honey Ahmad. Monica also talked to author and filmmaker Curtis Chin about his book “Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant.” Finally, Monica talks to Josh Noel about his new book on Malort and dares Louisa and Iris to try fungi yogurt, but will they eat it?   chewing.xyz chicagotribune.com/chewingpodcast facebook.com/chewingpodcast Insta Louisa Chu @louisachu1 Monica Eng @monicaengreporter   Links: Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites by Monica Eng and David Hammond Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant by Curtis Chin Malört: The Redemption of a Revered and Reviled Spirit by Josh Noel   Music: Theme music: “Zhong Nan Hai” by Carsick Cars  Outro music: “15 Minutes Older” by Carsick Cars Segments:  “Janji” by Aziz Harun “Masing Masing” by Ernie Zakri, Ade Govinda “Early in the Morning” by The Gories “Detroit City Blues” by Fats Domino “Crying at Airports” by Whale

This week on Chewing, Monica and Louisa report back from the James Beard Awards. Monica talks to Outstanding Chef winner Michael Rafidi, Best Chef: Great Lakes winner Hajime Sato, and Lifetime Achievement Award winner Ruth Reichl. Then, Monica chats with Capriole Goat Cheese founder Judy Schad and Prairie Grass Cafe chef and co-owner Sarah Stegner. Louisa talks about her story on The Bear and dares Monica and Iris to try a James Beard award-winning chef's cannabis chocolate. Last, Monica catches up with TikTok star Jake Potashnick on finally opening the doors to his new farm-to-table restaurant Feld.   chewing.xyz chicagotribune.com/chewingpodcast facebook.com/chewingpodcast Insta Louisa Chu @louisachu1 Monica Eng @monicaengreporter   Links: Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites    Music: Theme music: “Zhong Nan Hai” by Carsick Cars  Outro music: “15 Minutes Older” by Carsick Cars Segments:  “Working for the Knife” by Mitzki “Fly Over States” by Jason Aldean “The Midwest Can Be Alright” by The Gizmos “Grass Canons” by Olivia Tremor Control “A New Day Has Come” by Celine Dion

Nick welcomes Monica Eng, from Axios.com, back to the podcast to discuss several Chicago-centric stories like: segregation in the CPS, a huge surge in Chicago biking (and personal stories about bike lanes and traffic), a report on the CTA, a brief history of Chinese food on the Southside, and a cicada report which includes stories of Sex Crazed Zombie Cicadas that are terrorizing the city (well, they're not really terrorizing the city...but, they do actually exist!). Then, Esmeralda Leon and Nick talk about goofy celebrities who like to pull crazy pranks (we're looking at you George Clooney), and they continue their taste-testing of snacks from Thailand. And Nick gives you the details about his upcoming screening of The Who's TOMMY at the Lake Theater in Oak Park, IL. [EP249]

Protests continue on local university campuses. Lawmakers return to Springfield for spring session, where the Bears' stadium plans are sidelined by the governor's aides and other political leaders. Meanwhile, Mayor Johnson prepares to relaunch a guaranteed basic income program and the speed limit could be lowered in Chicago. Reset goes behind those headlines and more with Axios' Monica Eng, Chicago Tribune's Ray Long and WBEZ's Mariah Woelfel. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.

Monica Eng, from Axios.com, joins Nick to talk about the high tension in the Mayor's Press Room, the future of Clark Street dining, when to tip and when not to tip, the death of Maxwell Street, and the new WTTW series in which Monica appears. Then, Esmeralda Leon and Nick finish their snack tour of Ukraine, talk about what's true and what's false about food myths, and discuss what it's like to down a couple of two-liter bottles of Jolt Cola while working at Jewel. Plus, Nick talks about his new film series, "Nick's Pix," that kicks off with a screening of the classic 80's action movie "Streets of Fire" that he is hosting at the Lake Theater in Oak Park, Il. Get your tickets now at  classiccinemas.com/nick [EP238]

A new study shows that more than two-thirds of kids under 6 in Chicago might be exposed to lead-contaminated water. That could be because the city has nearly 400,000 lead water service lines, the most of any city in the country. Axios' Monica Eng has been closely following Chicago's lead pipe removal efforts. In one of our very first episodes, she told us how the city ended up with so many lead lines. We're revisiting that conversation, and Monica returns with an update on what's happened since. 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 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices