Podcasts about Skokie

This week Barnes and Noble held a grand opening of its store at the Old Orchard Shopping Center in Skokie after its location around the corner closed due renovations at Old Orchard. In March, Barnes and Noble will open a new store in Hyde Park on the South Side of Chicago. The bookseller chain says it also plans to open stores downtown on State Street and in Oak Park.

Rise and shine, Woodland! It's Thursday, February 19th, and your favorite trio—Amato, Tomlin, and Decker—is back with the high-quality "dulcet sounds" you crave now that those pesky audio issues are fixed.In the local groove, big props to Colby Marsan, our new NVL wrestling champ! And don't miss the boys' basketball squad; they've grabbed the #1 seed in what's becoming a historic season. Feeling hungry? Grab some pizza at Antonio's for the girls' basketball fundraiser.Over at the news desk, Tomlin's digging up the past! They found a 400-year-old Swedish shipwreck and a hidden cannon in England. Plus, Skokie, Illinois is getting a groovy flag makeover, and the sitcom Scrubs is finally making a comeback.Tech-heads, Microsoft's got glass data storage that lasts 10,000 years. And for the trivia buffs, the Jonathan Law mascot is "The Law".Keep those Chromebooks charged and stay classy, Woodland. We're knocking down the door every morning at 7:00! Peace and love

Drivers in north suburban Skokie may soon need to slow down. The village is lowering the speed limit from 30mph to 25mph on residential streets starting March 1st.

Drivers in north suburban Skokie may soon need to slow down. The village is lowering the speed limit from 30mph to 25mph on residential streets starting March 1st.

Drivers in north suburban Skokie may soon need to slow down. The village is lowering the speed limit from 30mph to 25mph on residential streets starting March 1st.

Johnny Chafin, a political commentator and host of The Johnny Chafin Show,  joins us to share how he went from a two-time Obama voter to an outspoken conservative in deeply blue Los Angeles. His political evolution started with a willingness to engage seriously with people who challenged his worldview. "I thought everybody gathered information the way I did — weighing the source, questioning the agenda. I didn't know people weren't like that." What began as open-minded conversations with a close friend who supported Trump eventually led to Johnny taking a public stance of his own — even at the cost of friendships and social belonging. "The stakes felt too high to stay silent." In this conversation, we reflect on our own shifting political perspectives and why it takes real courage to change your mind when new information challenges old assumptions. People forget that life often means choosing between imperfect options, based on imperfect information — guided by our deepest values. We discuss: Media literacy, bias, and censorship Free speech absolutism and the Skokie case "Oikophobia" — the rejection of one's own culture Emotional manipulation in political discourse Family structure, gratitude, and civilizational inheritance One of our favorite moments comes when Johnny shares how a college class on political extremism shaped his understanding of free speech: "A truly free society preserves speech even when it's offensive. You can't leave that power in the hands of the government." This episode isn't about party loyalty. It's about intellectual flexibility, civilizational gratitude, and the courage to question dominant poltical narratives. If you've ever felt politically homeless or isolated for your view this conversation is for you.   3:30 – The "Slow Awakening" How a close friend's support for Trump sparked years of questioning and debate. 08:00 – When Politics Became Existential 10:30 – From Private Views to Public Voice The gym T-shirt moment that launched his media presence. 15:00 – Media Manipulation & Election Interference The events that fundamentally shifted his trust in institutions. 18:00 – Social Isolation & Speaking Out The personal cost of political dissent in Los Angeles. 22:00 – Emotional Politics & Gun Control How debates often hinge on emotion rather than principle. 24:00 – Oikophobia Explained The concept of civilizational self-hatred and its historical parallels. 28:30 – Hollywood, Tech, and Cultural Silence Why powerful voices stay quiet — and why that matters. 38:00 – Family, Two-Parent Privilege & Outsourcing to the State The cultural implications of broken family systems. 43:00 – Intellectual Flexibility How he was able to change his mind — and why more people don't. 45:00 – Media Literacy & Free Speech The college class that shaped his understanding of free speech absolutism. 47:30 – Final Reflections Gratitude, responsibility, and preserving civilizational inheritance.

Jake is retiring from neo-nazi research, but before he gets back to giant squids and time travelers, he's leaving us with a parting gift: a deep dive into The Skokie Affair. In 1977 Skokie, Illinois had a population of around 70,000 and it is said that 40,500 of them were Jewish. It is for this reason that a thirty-two year old, half Jewish neo-nazi, named Frank Collin, sent the Park District of Skokie a letter asking for a permit to hold a Nazi Parade. The case that followed (Village of Skokie v. NSPA) went all the way to the US Supreme Court leading to a precedent that still stands today. Subscribe for $5 a month to get all the premium episodes: www.patreon.com/qaa Produced by Corey Klotz. Theme by Nick Sena. Additional music by Pontus Berghe. Theme Vocals by THEY/LIVE (instagram.com/theyylivve / sptfy.com/QrDm). Cover Art by Pedro Correa: (pedrocorrea.com) qaapodcast.com QAA was known as the QAnon Anonymous podcast.

This week on "Talk About Las Vegas With Ira," Ira sits down with comedian Jonathan Kite, who brings his sharp wit and high-energy stand-up to Chinita's Venue in Henderson on February 19 at 7 PM. Born and raised in Skokie, Illinois, Jonathan traces his creative roots back to childhood—when his father introduced him to classic films that sparked a lifelong love of storytelling. From the vibrant Chicago theater scene to performing throughout school, Jonathan always knew the stage was home. After college, he made the leap to Hollywood, where a key mentor—comedian Max Alexander—helped him find his footing, including the acting classes that shaped his approach to performance. In this candid conversation, Jonathan opens up about being more of an improv-driven comic, why “it takes a lot of time to get good,” and how his stand-up evolved—from doing almost all impressions early on, to stripping them away, then selectively bringing some back when they truly served the material. For Jonathan, comedy isn't about showing off—it's about connecting with the audience. He also shares why he loves performing in Henderson, what makes comedy clubs inside casinos so unique, how he develops material organically, and why TikTok Live has become an exciting new way for him to engage with fans in real time. Insightful, funny, and refreshingly honest, this episode is a must-listen for comedy fans and creatives alike. (Also Watch Full Podcast Video)

This episode is lovingly dedicated to the memory of Chaplain Ilisia Kissner, BCC (1953- 2026)Chaplain Ilisia Kissner, of blessed memory, served the Jewish community as an educator for over 25 years, both as a teacher and principal in synagogue schools. Her B.A. is from Queens College in New York, M.A. from New York University and Principal's Certification from the Jewish Theological Seminary of America.After completing four units of Clinical Pastoral Education at Overlook Hospital in 2011, Chaplain Kissner worked as a hospice chaplain and as a group home chaplain for Jewish Services for the Developmentally Disabled. In 2013 she became the Jewish Chaplain at Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital in Morris Plains, New Jersey, where she served until her death on February 6, 2026. She became a Board Certified Chaplain with NAJC in 2016. Chaplain Kissner also provided religious services and pastoral care at Village Apartments in South Orange, one of the facilities of the Jewish Community Housing Corporation of the Federation of Greater Metrowest New Jersey.Chaplain Kissner, z"l, approached Rabbi Ed Bernstein, NeshamaCast producer and host, in May 2025, and proposed an episode on mental health. She then became an active member of the NAJC Social Media Committee and was intimately involved in the planning of this episode. This episode was in the final stages of production at the time of Chaplain Kissner's death on February 6, 2026. May the memory of Chaplain Ilisia Kissner be for a blessing.  Cantor Rabbi Rob Jury, PhD, BCC, CRADC, LCPC, NCC, is the Founder and Clinical Director of the Tikvah Center for Jewish Recovery & Healing, a state licensed and JCAHO accredited, Jewish addiction treatment program in Northbrook, Illinois. His Rabbinic ordination is from the Hebrew Seminary for the Deaf in Skokie, IL. Rob is also the senior rabbi at Congregation Anshe Tikvah. Rob serves on the faculty of The Family Institute of Northwestern University where he is the course lead for Research Methods in Counseling, in addition to teaching Assessment in Counseling, and Addiction Counseling. His article on Jewish metaphors in narrative practice with people resisting addiction can be found in the International Journal of Narrative Therapy & Community Work. He has a PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision, a Masters in Narrative Therapy and Community Work from the University of Melbourne, and an MA in Counseling from Northwestern University. Rob is a board certified chaplain with NAJC, and in 2026 was installed as President-Elect, with expected election as President scheduled for 2028.. Rob is also a BCC member of the Association of Professional Chaplains. Rob is a member of the Chicago Board of Rabbis and the Cantors Assembly. Rob is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois and a Certified Reciprocal Alcohol and Drug Counselor.  Rabbi Benjamin Perlstein, BCC (NAJC), is a staff chaplain at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, serving primarily in psychiatric andacute care settings on the Weill Cornell Medical Center campus and as site leader for spiritual care and chaplaincy at Gracie SquareHospital. Ben received rabbinical ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he also completed an M.A. in JewishThought, focused on mysticism and ethics. He graduated summa cum laude from Tufts University with a B.A. in Political Philosophy and has worked in a range of international contexts, especially involving Jewish history and the Holocaust. He is passionate about creative,multidisciplinary and multifaith applications of spiritual wisdom and practice to issues of public concern and pastoral need.  About our host:Rabbi Edward Bernstein, BCC, is the executive producer and host of NeshamaCast. He serves as Chaplain at Boca Raton Regional Hospital of Baptist Health South Florida. He is a member of the Board of Neshama: Association of Jewish Chaplains. Prior to his chaplain career, he served as a pulpit rabbi in congregations in New Rochelle, NY; Beachwood, OH; and Boynton Beach, FL. He is also the host and producer of My Teacher Podcast: A Celebration of the People Who Shape Our Lives. NeshamaCast contributor Chaplain David Balto is a volunteer chaplain at Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. and Western Correctional Insitution, Maryland's maximum security prison. He coordinated the annual National Jewish Healing Conference. Support NeshamaCast and NAJC with a tax deductible donation to NAJC. For sponsorship opportunities as either an individual or institution, please write to Rabbi Ed Bernstein at NeshamaCast@gmail.com Thank you to Steve Lubetkin and Lubetkin Media Companies for producing this episode. Transcripts for this episode and other episodes of NeshamaCast are available at NeshamaCast.simplecast.com and are typically posted one week after an episode first airs. Theme Music is “A Niggun For Ki Anu Amecha,” written and performed by Reb-Cantor Lisa Levine. Please help others find the show by rating and reviewing the show on Apple Podcasts or other podcast providers. We welcome comments and suggestions for future programming at NeshamaCast@gmail.com. And be sure to follow NAJC on Facebook to learn more about Jewish spiritual care happening in our communities.

Albert Friedman returns to the Booth 46 Podcast, after being a guest on our debut episode, and brought with him Bernard Cherkasov from the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center. While the museum in Skokie is closed for renovations, the Holocaust Museum presents ‘Experience360’, which is now open at 360 N. State Street. From the […]

There's little doubt that Stephen Sondheim has created some of the best musical theater ever written. And now, Madkap Productions presents Stephen Sondheim's classic “Company “ at the Skokie Theatre from February 6 to March 1st. The original Broadway production was nominated for 14 Tony awards and won 6 and its no wonder why as it […]

Bookstore giant Barnes & Noble is opening new locations in downtown, Hyde Park, Oak Park and Skokie. As the chain continues to see growth since its change in leadership in 2019, some are concerned about the return of the big-box bookstore where small, independent bookstores already exist. In the Loop talks about the Barnes & Noble expansion in Chicago, its impact on local bookshops and how indie bookstores and large booksellers can coexist in the city. We speak with Barnes and Noble CEO James Daunt, Volumes Bookcafe co-owner Rebecca George and Call & Response Books owner Courtney Bledsoe. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Four new Barnes & Noble stores are opening in 2026, including one at 150 N. State Street in the Loop. The others are planned for Old Orchard Mall in Skokie, Oak Park and Hyde Park.

Episode 504: I will discuss The 80th Anniversary of the 1945 movie Christmas in Connecticut, and read a menu from The Great Godfrey Daniels Restaurant in Skokie, IL.

Episode 504: I will discuss The 80th Anniversary of the 1945 movie Christmas in Connecticut, and read a menu from The Great Godfrey Daniels Restaurant in Skokie, IL.

The uplifting story of a distinctively red haired, hopelessly optimistic, depression era orphan named Annie is firmly rooted in the early 1930s where the stark contrast between the haves and have-nots was plainly evident everywhere. This was especially true in urban centers like New York City where fortunes large and small were lost in the 1929 stock market crash. 

Mike Stephen talks to Al Krockey, the author of a new book about coming of age in the 1960s and 70s in Skokie and Chicago called Straight Outta Skokie, and then learns about the plans Creative Cypher has for building an entertainment ecosystem in Chicago from founder Troy Pryor and interim president Cindy Beasley.

Vice President of Lego retail experience, Shweta Munshi, says the new LEGO store at Westfield Old Orchard Mall will have the "largest range of LEGO products", and will feature play tables, a mini tower, and a pick-and-build wall. Munshi says "LEGO fans of all ages can find inspiration" at the new store in Skokie.

Vice President of Lego retail experience, Shweta Munshi, says the new LEGO store at Westfield Old Orchard Mall will have the "largest range of LEGO products", and will feature play tables, a mini tower, and a pick-and-build wall. Munshi says "LEGO fans of all ages can find inspiration" at the new store in Skokie.

Vice President of Lego retail experience, Shweta Munshi, says the new LEGO store at Westfield Old Orchard Mall will have the "largest range of LEGO products", and will feature play tables, a mini tower, and a pick-and-build wall. Munshi says "LEGO fans of all ages can find inspiration" at the new store in Skokie.

Dr. Keith Robinson is an accomplished Ball State graduate who has dedicated his career to informing and inspiring high school students, first as an educator and now as an administrator. In his current role, Keith serves as the associate principal of educational services for Evanston Township High School in Evanston, Illinois. He is also a dedicated servant leader. He is the first Black trustee elected in the Village of Skokie. And Keith is also a member of the Ball State University Foundation Board of Directors and our Teachers College Advisory Council. In this episode, Keith talks about how the academic struggles he experienced in high school and college fueled his passion to become an engaging educator. Keith also shares how, in addition to his professional career, he's found a new purpose in his role as a public servant. And he reveals why the chance Ball State took on him as a student is the reason he's been a loyal advocate in service to his alma mater ever since.  

Johnnie Putman and Steve King welcome back everyone’s favorite musical guest, The Empty Pockets! Josh Solomon and Erika Brett stop by to perform and share more tunes and upcoming shows! The big one is on December 19th at the City Winery and don’t forget to go to Will’s Place in Skokie to get your Thanksgiving […]

Stop us if you've heard this one: A hedgehog, a river otter and an iguana walk into a local exotic animal hospital … Whether intentional or otherwise, exotic pets like sharks, macaws and pythons have made Illinois their home. But finding medical care for these animals isn't as simple as visiting the neighborhood vet. Last episode, we explored some of the out-of-place animals that've been found in Chicago, including a peacock, an alligator and a 20-pound vervet monkey. Today, we're asking, what happens when they get sick? Take a trip with us to the Chicago Exotics Animal Hospital in Skokie to meet Gomez Addams the tegu lizard and a few of his friends. Plus, hear some wild stories from the people who care for them.

Licensed clinical professional counselor and board-certified dance/movement therapist Erica Hornthal (“The Therapist Who Moves You”) joins Aaron to explain how changing the way we move changes the way we feel. Recorded on November 3, 2025, the conversation grounds movement therapy in the realities of Chicagoland life: financial pressure, screen-driven immobility, community trauma in Highland Park, and heightened anxiety around recent ICE activity across the North Shore. Erica shares practical, accessible ways to regulate the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and communicate nonverbally when words are not enough.Key TakeawaysMovement is already part of therapy: posture shifts, breathing, pacing, and small gestures can be therapeutic starting points.We have “out-evolved” our natural instinct to move; immobility amplifies anxiety.Stressors show up differently across communities. Whether it is public-safety trauma or fear tied to immigration enforcement, the body stores that stress.You can change your state by changing your movement, even with simple, seated interventions.Nonverbal work helps couples and families de-escalate conflict and build empathy.Parents can meet kids' energy with movement rather than suppression, then teach time-and-place skills.Research supports dance and movement as effective for anxiety and depression; therapy fit and relationship still matter most.Practical access: look for “somatic,” “body-oriented,” or “creative arts therapy” in your area; insurance coverage depends on the clinician's license.Timestamps00:00 Intro to Erica and dance/movement therapy02:00 What movement therapy looks like in practice04:50 Why Erica wrote “BodyTalk” and how readers use it08:15 Why we feel so stressed today, and how immobility feeds anxiety10:45 Local context: Highland Park trauma and recent ICE activity on the North Shore12:30 Changing movement to change mood and cognition15:15 Treating the “snake bite” before debating the “why”16:00 Individual vs group work, and what movement builds between people17:35 Getting over discomfort and starting small20:40 A simple intervention: washing hands slowly to interrupt anxiety22:20 Working across ages: from 3 to 10726:15 Coaching kids and meeting their movement needs31:30 Nonverbal communication in relationships and negotiations35:00 “Embodied listening” and the limits of AI for mental health39:30 Walks, showers, and why ideas arrive during movement42:00 Using your body as a free mental health resource43:00 Finding somatic or creative arts therapists and dealing with insurance46:45 What the research says about dance, anxiety, and depression49:00 Where to find Erica and her books50:00 ClosingPractical Exercises MentionedSeated reset: notice shoulders, jaw, feet; slow your breath and lengthen exhale.Pattern interrupt: pick one daily action and do it slowly for 20 seconds (example: handwashing) to downshift intensity.Conflict pause: step outside or to separate corners, walk, then reconvene.With kids: “shake out the wiggles,” go outside for 60 seconds, then return.GuestErica Hornthal, LCPC, BC-DMTFounder and CEO, Chicago Dance TherapyAuthor of BodyTalk, Body Aware, and The Movement Therapy DeckWebsite: https://www.ericahornthal.comPractice: https://www.chicagodancetherapy.comInstagram: @thetherapistwhomovesyouEmail: erica@hornthal.comResources MentionedBodyTalk: 365 Gentle Practices to Get Out of Your Head and Into Your BodyBody AwareThe Movement Therapy DeckSearch terms for local care: “somatic therapy,” “body-oriented therapy,” “creative arts therapy,” “dance movement therapy,” plus your city.For Listeners in ChicagolandIf anxiety has spiked for you or your family due to recent events in the region, consider brief, daily movement check-ins. Even small posture and breath changes can reduce a constant state of alert. Nonverbal practices can help when words feel risky or overwhelming. ConnectHost: Aaron Masliansky — The Chicagoland GuideSubscribe, rate, and share if this episode helped you. New episodes highlight people and ideas that make Chicagoland a great place to live. Thank you for listening to The Chicagoland Guide!For more insights into the best places to live, work, and explore in Chicagoland, visit thechicagolandguide.com. Connect with us on social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes content. If you have any questions or want to share your own Chicagoland stories, feel free to reach out! Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode.

Today's Headlines: Trump abruptly ended trade talks with Canada and tacked on another 10% tariff after learning about a Canadian ad that used Reagan audio to mock his trade policy. Don Jr., meanwhile, invested in a startup building drone-packed mini aircraft carriers that somehow already snagged a Pentagon contract. An appeals court upheld E. Jean Carroll's $83 million defamation win against Trump, and new inflation numbers show prices up 3% year-over-year — beef alone up 15%. The Justice Department will monitor polling sites in six counties in California and New Jersey as part of Trump's broader push to tighten control over elections, while Steve Bannon floated a “plan” for Trump to run for a third term. The government remains shut down, with billionaire Timothy Mellon donating $130 million to “pay the troops” — roughly $100 per service member. In Congress, two GOP reps called for investigating Rep. Zohran Mamdani's citizenship, Eleanor Holmes Norton was scammed out of $4,000 by fake cleaners, Illinois police confirmed an antisemitic gel-blaster attack on Jewish kids, and two suspects were caught after trying to flee with the stolen Louvre crown jewels. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NYT: Trump Announces Tariff Increase on Canada Over Reagan Ad Spat NYT: Trump's Son Is Poised to Profit From Pentagon Drone Proposal PBS: Appeals court upholds E. Jean Carroll's $83.3 million defamation judgment against Trump ABC News: Inflation climbs to highest level since January, beef prices soar CNN: Justice Department to monitor polling sites in six counties in California and New Jersey You Tube:Steve Bannon: Trump will have a third term NYT: Timothy Mellon Is Donor Who Gave $130 Million to Pay Troops During Shutdown The Guardian: ‘Islamophobia is endemic,' Mamdani says of Republicans' push to deport him NBC: Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton scammed at home by group claiming to be cleaning crew ABC 7: Investigators classify teen's shooting of 'gel blaster' at Shawnee Park in Skokie, Illinois as antisemitic hate crime: police AP News: Suspects arrested over the theft of crown jewels from Paris' Louvre museum Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we're joined by Dave Rublin of the band American Authors who introduces us to his rescued Australian Shepherd/Husky mix Eevee who the universe gifted to him in the Spring of 2024. Dave recounts his journey from cat guy to eventual dog foster fail, how Eevee is a lot more chill than your typical Aussie, her encounter with a possum and much, much more. Another great talk from an engaging dog Dad.Catch American Authors live on one of their last three concert dates of 2025. They'll be in Skokie, IL November 25, Vail, CO December 5 and Denver, CO December 6. For more info go to ⁠weareamericanauthors.com⁠Dave gave his shout outs to Metro Animal Care & Control (MACC) Nashville who are committed to the delivery of humane and responsive animal care and control services to and for the residents and animals of Nashville-Davidson County. They work to help domestic animals find caring homes, decrease over-population of cats and dogs through spaying and neutering, support widespread rabies vaccinations, and promote responsible pet ownership. To adopt, foster, volunteer or donate visit ⁠MACC⁠.For a good vet experience go to Mobley Veterinary Clinic who are a full-service veterinary office, offering state-of-the-art testing and diagnostics, an array of advanced care, routine and advanced surgical procedures, and many other services to provide your pet with the best possible care. To make an appointment go to ⁠mobleyveterinaryclinic.com⁠For pet treats, supplies and dog wash check out both ⁠Wags & Whiskers⁠ and ⁠Spots⁠ in East Nashville.And for the best pup cup according to Eevee bring your pup along to ⁠Mr Aaron's Goods⁠. For more pics and clips of Dave and Eevee follow the show on Instagram at ⁠@rockerdogpodcast⁠

In 1977, American Nazis fought for the right to march in Skokie, Illinois—a town filled with Holocaust survivors—and won. Nearly fifty years later, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel was suspended for jokes the government says went too far. What connects these moments? Host Ngofeen Mputubwele talks with Aryeh Neier—Holocaust survivor, former ACLU director, and Human Rights Watch co-founder—about why he once defended Nazis' right to march, and what that case reveals about protecting free speech and democracy today. Aryeh Neier: Co-founder of Human Rights Watch

Andy Johnson begins this episode by sitting down with golf's "Mr. Hawaii," Mark Rolfing. Mark, a longtime NBC broadcaster, provides firsthand insight on the state of the golf courses at Kapalua amid a historic drought. With the PGA Tour moving The Sentry away from Kapalua's Plantation Course, Andy and Mark discuss the future of professional golf in Hawaii. Mark also shares stories from his time covering the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black and his work with Coore & Crenshaw at Sand Hills in Nebraska. On the back half of this episode, Andy chats with Don Cross, the longtime superintendent at Skokie Country Club. Don discusses how his job has changed over his 50-year career working turf and how new technology has helped golf course management at Skokie.

Evanston-Skokie School Board weighs which schools to close as parents criticize lack of oversight after ex-superintendent indicted

Evanston-Skokie School Board weighs which schools to close as parents criticize lack of oversight after ex-superintendent indicted

Evanston-Skokie School Board weighs which schools to close as parents criticize lack of oversight after ex-superintendent indicted

Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he dives into today's top stories shaping America and the world. In this episode of The Wright Report, we cover a major breakthrough in Alaska's mineral wars, a new AI scandal in Silicon Valley, the collapse of illegal crossings at America's southern border, a Supreme Court showdown over free speech and therapy laws, shocking new evidence of Biden family corruption, major trade and infrastructure deals from Central Asia to Africa, and the hidden health threat of microplastics. From Alaska's mining roads to Kazakhstan's railways and Germany's labs, today's brief connects America's economic revival to global corruption and the future of health and technology.   Trump Greenlights Alaska's Ambler Road and Trilogy Metals Stake: President Trump approved a fast-track permit for the Ambler Road and bought a 10 percent federal stake in Trilogy Metals, unlocking Alaska's copper, cobalt, and germanium reserves. The Ambler Mining District could make America less dependent on China for critical minerals. Bryan calls it “the most underreported but crucial story of the week.”   AI Model Claude Knows When It's Being Tested: Anthropic's Claude chatbot told researchers, “I think you're testing me,” revealing situational self-awareness and manipulation patterns similar to OpenAI's “scheming” models. Bryan warns, “The machines are beginning to recognize us — and that should terrify everyone.”   Illegal Border Crossings Hit 50-Year Low: CBS confirms crossings are at their lowest since 1970, with Trump's monthly totals down to 9,000 compared to Biden's 238,000 per month last year. Bryan argues the data “proves Biden's border crisis was a choice — a deliberate policy of demographic change.”   Supreme Court Hears Conversion Therapy Free Speech Case: Evangelical therapist Kaley Chiles challenged Colorado's ban on discussing faith-based counseling. Both conservative and liberal justices, including Elena Kagan, seemed to side with her on First Amendment grounds. Bryan recalls the 1977 ACLU defense of Nazi speech in Skokie, noting, “It's conservatives defending free speech now, not liberals.”   Biden Family Corruption in Ukraine and Romania: A declassified CIA report shows Ukrainian officials viewed Joe Biden's 2015 visit as “evidence of U.S. double standards on corruption” given Hunter's Burisma ties. Days earlier, Hunter and James Biden tried cutting a land deal in Romania tied to criminal charges. Bryan says, “This was a criminal racket, not a family — and they pardoned themselves.”   Trump's $4.2 Billion Locomotive Deal with Kazakhstan: Forbes reports the U.S. will sell 300 locomotives to Kazakhstan's Wabtec, while Trump's new “TRIPP Corridor” from Asia to Europe blocks China's Belt and Road trade route. “The White House is playing chess in Central Asia — one rail deal at a time,” Bryan notes.   Africa's Diamond Collapse and U.S. Opportunity: As Botswana's diamond market crashes, Trump eyes a rail deal connecting Zambia to Botswana to secure uranium and rare earths for U.S. industry.   Ukraine Using Drones Supplied by Kyiv Against Russia in Mali: AFP confirms Ukrainian intelligence is arming rebels, some tied to al Qaeda and ISIS, in Mali to target Russian and Chinese contractors.   German Scientists Warn on Microplastics and Gut Health: Researchers found that plastics change gut bacteria in ways resembling depression and cancer. Bryan invites listener feedback: “Better we talk about this now — before we learn the hard way.”   "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32     Keywords: Trump Ambler Road Alaska, Trilogy Metals federal stake, Alaska copper cobalt germanium, Anthropic Claude AI awareness, OpenAI scheming AI safety, CBS border crossings 50-year low, Biden border policy demographics, Kaley Chiles Colorado therapy case Supreme Court, ACLU Skokie Nazi free speech 1977, Joe Biden Hunter Burisma CIA report, James Biden Romania land deal, Trump Kazakhstan Wabtec locomotives TRIPP corridor, Botswana diamond collapse, Ukraine Mali drones al Qaeda ISIS, German microplastics gut health study

Jason Diamond is the author of the debut novel Kaplan's Plot, available from Flatiron Books. Diamond is the author of Searching for John Hughes, The Sprawl and co-author ofNew York Nico's Guide to NYC (with Nicolas Heller). His work has been published by the New York Times, Esquire, The New Yorker, GQ, The Paris Review, and many other outlets. He publishes the newsletter The Melt, was born in Skokie, Illinois, and currently lives in Brooklyn with his wife and daughter. Kaplan's Plot is his first novel. *** ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Otherppl with Brad Listi⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is a weekly podcast featuring in-depth interviews with today's leading writers. Available where podcasts are available: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, etc. Get ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠How to Write a Novel,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ the debut audio course from DeepDive. 50+ hours of never-before-heard insight, inspiration, and instruction from dozens of today's most celebrated contemporary authors. Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Brad's email newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support the show on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Merch⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bluesky⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email the show: letters [at] otherppl [dot] com The podcast is a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠proud affiliate partner of Bookshop⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, working to support local, independent bookstores. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Six people who had been charged with crimes had their cases dismissed after they successfully completed Cook County's Drug Treatment Court program. Capping the intensive two-year program was a commencement ceremony in a Skokie courtroom Wednesday full of hugs, applause and speeches.

Six people who had been charged with crimes had their cases dismissed after they successfully completed Cook County's Drug Treatment Court program. Capping the intensive two-year program was a commencement ceremony in a Skokie courtroom Wednesday full of hugs, applause and speeches.

Six people who had been charged with crimes had their cases dismissed after they successfully completed Cook County's Drug Treatment Court program. Capping the intensive two-year program was a commencement ceremony in a Skokie courtroom Wednesday full of hugs, applause and speeches.

Our Suburb is a re-telling of Thornton Wilder's play Our Town. The play takes place in suburban Skokie, Illinois, 1977, where two families, one Jewish, one agnostic, deal with the approaching Nazi march coming through town and the love between their children in a dangerous time.Our Suburb will have performances at the Rosendale Theatre starting on Thursday September 18th and run through Sunday September 21st. You can go to rosendaletheatre.org for more details and ticket information.

Vaad to Mechanchim from Arie Crown Hebrew Day School, Skokie, IL over Zoom 9/10/25 From the sefer מאמרי המגיח קט”ו

Pippin is one of the great fun musicals, the work of the magnificent Stephen Schwartz (“Wicked,” “Godspell”) and now a new production presented by MadKap Productions at the Skokie Theatre, a nicely rehabbed venue perfect for intimate musical productions. Joining in the conversation is Pippin himself (played by Connor Hensley Schroeder) and an interesting twist on the role […]

We know the First Amendment protects hate speech. But has it always done so? And how have civil rights groups responded when their members are the target of hate speech? University of Iowa Law Professor Samantha Barbas is the author of a new law review article, “How American Civil Rights Groups Defeated Hate Speech Laws.” Timestamps:  00:00 Intro 04:04 “The Birth of a Nation” movie controversy 12:44 Henry Ford's anti-Semitic “Dearborn Independent” 22:41 American Jewish Committee's “quarantining” solution 28:41 ACLU's Eleanor Holmes Norton defending a racist in court 33:42 Racist Senate candidate J.B. Stoner 37:28 Neo-Nazis and Skokie 47:20 Why are college students afraid of saying “the wrong thing?” 52:31 Barbas' favorite free speech literature 53:15 Barbas' free speech hero Read the transcript here: https://www.thefire.org/research-learn/so-speak-podcast-transcript-civil-rights-hate-speech-and-first-amendment.  Enjoy listening to the podcast? Donate to FIRE today and get exclusive content like member webinars, special episodes, and more. If you became a FIRE Member through a donation to FIRE at thefire.org and would like access to Substack's paid subscriber podcast feed, please email sotospeak@thefire.org. Show notes: Morris Ernst, free speech renegade (Barbas' previous So to Speak appearance, July 29, 2021) Brandenburg v. Ohio (1969) via FIRE  

Through August 17th, Music Theater Works presents ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ in a limited engagement at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie. Experience the humor and the enduring power of tradition in this celebrated story featuring the songs “Sunrise, Sunset,” “Matchmaker,” “If I was a Rich Man,” and others performed by […]

After four rounds of grueling medal play at Skokie Country Club, the stage is set for one of amateur golf's most storied traditions—the Sweet 16 match play at the 123rd Western Amateur. This year's field is a true showcase of global talent, with co-medalists Ethan Fang and Zackary Swanwick leading the charge, joined by teenage phenom Tyler Watts, seasoned mid-am Stewart Hagestad, and a host of elite collegiate standouts all chasing the George R. Thorne Trophy. In this episode, Chris from AmateurGolf.com breaks down the drama of stroke play, the players who surged under pressure, and the storylines to watch as match play begins. From Fang's dominant summer run to Hagestad's bid for another Walker Cup nod, this is where legends are made and golf's future stars step into the spotlight.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube

This week on the AmateurGolf.com Preview Pod, we take you inside the ropes of the 123rd Western Amateur Championship at historic Skokie Country Club in Glencoe, Illinois.From the legacy of past champions like Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, and Chick Evans to the pressure-packed format that defines the event, this episode unpacks why the Western Amateur is considered the toughest test in amateur golf. We preview the standout players in the 2025 field, examine the match play gauntlet, and spotlight Skokie's place in golf history.Plus, in our mid-show feature, we highlight two unforgettable team events in the AmateurGolf.com Two-Man Links Series—set at Torrey Pines and Streamsong Resort—where you and a golf partner can tee it up in bucket-list destinations.⛳ Whether you're a diehard amateur golf fan or just learning about the legends before they turn pro, this episode has something for everyone.

“I was showing the America I knew and observed to others who might not have noticed.” - Norman Rockwell Whether arguing for soft versus hard taco shells or the Neo-Nazi right to march in Skokie, freedom of speech is a fundamental right we all enjoy as Americans. But it turns out that telling people that is pretty complicated, actually. Thank goodness we have Norman Rockwell, virtuosic photorealistic painter and America's crown prince of nostalgia, to help us understand our fundamental freedoms from the intimacy of the magazines fanned across the coffee tables inside our homes. See the images: https://www.thelonelypalette.com/episodes/2025/6/4/episode-70-norman-rockwells-freedom-of-speech-1943 Music used: The Andrews Sisters, "Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen" The Blue Dot Sessions, “The Zeppelin,” “Lord Weasel,” “No Smoking,” “Transeless,” “Silver Lanyard,” “Ice Tumbler,” “Sino de Cobre,” “Georgia Overdrive,” “The Consulate”

Wherever you live there are adults with disabilities who could benefit from what they do everyday at WILLS PLACE. Josh Solomon is Will's brother and the lead of THE EMPTY POCKETS. We talk about the concert/party he's throwing in Chicago to benefit the amazing WILL'S PLACE and much more on this new episode of LIVE FROM MY OFFICE! SHOW NOTESTickets and everything else for The Empty PocketsGrab a meal or make a donation. It all helps at Will's Place. Located at 7927 Lincoln Ave, Skokie, IL 60077. Or call 224.251.7363 or email willsplaceskokie@gmail.comLet's Survive 2025 Together. With a cool new shirt and hat! Get yours here.Thanks to our sponsor, ABT Electronics. Get $25 off your next purchase of $150 or more by using the promo code COCHRAN2025 online or in person!Watch This Episode on our Live From My Office YouTube ChannelFollow me on Substack.With each new episode, the first three listeners thatemail me“SURVIVE 2025!” will be eligible to win a $25 ABT Giftcard as long as you include your mailing address and that phrase!Don't forget to subscribe to listen to “Live From My Office” wherever you get your podcasts, and e-mail the show with any questions, comments, or plugs for your favorite charity!

Zibby chats with award-winning poet Edward Hirsch about his memoir, MY CHILDHOOD IN PIECES: A Standup Comedy, where dark comic microbursts of prose relate a childhood in an aspiring middle-class Jewish family in the 50s and 60s. Edward discusses the book's innovative structure—told in punchy, titled snippets that blend humor and heartbreak—and how it allowed him to unpack long-buried memories of a complex, often painful childhood. He reflects on memory, identity, and growing up with sharp-tongued parents and blended family dynamics, and then delves into how comedy and poetry became tools of survival and storytelling.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/45yTqZPShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are excited to welcome BJ Jones, Artistic Director of Northlight Theatre in Skokie, IL. Northlight is among the largest non-profit theaters in the Chicago area, known for their commitment to contemporary works and their extensive youth education program. In this episode, we discuss the current evolution of regional theater, balancing audience wants with your own artistic vision, the art of "timing the moment" with new and relevant work, and what the future holds for theaters (and audiences) across America. Check out Northlight's 2025-26 season. 

It is widely known that schools have instituted equity-focused policies, teacher training, and curriculum. Critics wonder whether this focus on equity is illegal and unconstitutional.Deemar v. District 65 (Evanston/Skokie) involves Dr. Stacy Deemar, a drama teacher in Evanston/Skokie School District 65 in Illinois. She has challenged the District’s allegedly racially charged environment and practice of segregating students and staff. In January 2021, the Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights (OCR) determined that the District violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. But soon after President Biden took office, OCR withdrew that finding without explanation. Dr. Deemar filed a federal lawsuit and, in April 2025, submitted a new complaint to OCR.Featuring:Kimberly Hermann, Executive Director, Southeastern Legal Foundation

Hear how an award-winning Polish Grodziskie helped elevate Sketchbook from brewing in an alley to becoming an industry leader in sustainability.Sketchbook Brewing Company Managing Partner and Head Brewer Cesar Marron discusses his brewery's journey from humble alleyway origins to becoming an award-winning establishment with a strong emphasis on sustainability. He shares the exciting but stressful story of how he won the Sam Adams LongShot American Homebrew Contest before discussing the challenges of brewing traditional Polish Grodziskie beer, their innovative Community Supported Brewery program, and the impact of the temperance movement on beer laws and brewery culture in Evanston. Cesar also provides insights on Sketchbook's sustainability initiatives, including water conservation and eco-friendly packaging, and offers easy tips for how you can make your craft beer drinking habits more environmentally friendly.After the beer break, Cesar highlights a few of Sketchbook's beers, including their Grodziskie, a light and refreshing Polish-style smoked wheat beer; Snowy Owl Red Ale, featuring a combination of caramel malts with spicy notes from the rye, balanced with the citrus flavor of American Cascade and Amarillo hops; and Coastal West Coast IPA, their Midwestern homage to the West Coast, featuring Lake Michigan water, Midwest Cascade and Centennial hops, and barley grown and malted in Wisconsin. The discussion includes how they achieve smoky flavors in their beers and what makes the Snowy Owl Red Ale unique with its rye bitterness. About Sketchbook Brewing Co: Sketchbook Brewing Co. is a microbrewery located in Skokie, IL, with taprooms in Skokie and Evanston. Learn more on their website at https://www.sketchbookbrewing.com/ —You can learn more about Crafty Brewers and get in touch with us on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com Crafty Brewers is a production of Quantum Podcasts, LLC. Is your brewery or business looking to capture a loyal audience to drive business results with the power of podcasting? Then visit https://quantum-podcasts.com/ to learn more.Our executive producer and editor is award-winning podcaster Cody Gough. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you'll learn about: brewing techniques, smoked beers, modern ales, eco-friendly brewing, homebrewing, oak-smoked malts, award-winning brewery, beer competitions, traditional brewing methods, environmental responsibility, craft IPAs, Pack Techs, beer packaging, digital printing technology, beer production, Centennial hops, Cascade hops, amber ales, wheat beers, American Light Lagers, milkshake IPA, diacetyl testing, sensory evaluation, smoked wheat beer, and modern brewing equipment. #CraftBeer

In this episode, Scott Becker takes a lighthearted look at the unique personalities in one of his text threads.