Podcast appearances and mentions of steve dale

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson joins Steve Dale to take us behind the scenes at the Vatican. How did the Pope – a White Sox fan – respond to receiving Chicago Cubs swag? Then, Mayor Johnson talks about the teen takeovers, and whether or not he'll find an alternative for Shot Spotter.

Singer and star of Going Bacharach at the Apollo Theater John Pagano joins Steve Dale on the show to give us an inside look on the vibrant musical revue celebrating the legendary composer. Listen in while John shares stories from working with Bacharach for 26 years and reminds listeners why Burt Bacharach was one of the […]

Published co-author of “Mollie’s War,” Cyndee Schaffer joins Steve Dale to remember her mother Mollie, and the other 150,000 women who served in the military during World War II in honor of the 82nd anniversary of D-Day.

Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza joins Steve Dale to talk about why she wants to be the next mayor of Chicago. Listen in while Mendoza tells listeners why she has decided to get into this race, the major issues that she thinks that need to be addressed including the importance of growing the economic base of the city, how […]

John Landecker is joined by Steve Dale, WGN Radio's pet expert, and John Manchester, CEO and Owner of Windy City Sweets, to talk about their ice cream social on June 16th to help raise money for EveryCat Health Foundation. For more information, visit everycat.org.

Leave us a voicemail!Kids are routinely taught to ask a dog's owner before petting the dog. Today, radio host Steve Dale joins us to talk about how they should also find out if the dog wants to be petted or not. We learn about Steve's new children's book, Ask the Dog, which is a fun story with an important message, and we also talk about some good news in cat health.We talked about:Why Steve wrote the bookThe importance of preventing dog bites, and why children are especially at riskWhy children should learn to ask the dogHow the relationship between dogs and children has changed over the yearsWhat it was like working with an illustrator for the bookThe work of the EveryCat Health Foundation and their research on taurine in cat food, FIP, diabetes, and heart diseaseHow research on cat health has also benefited human healthAlso mentioned:The EveryCat Health Foundation is at everycat.orgTheater of the Mind created by David Byrne and Mala Gaonkar is at the Goodman Theater in Chicago through August 30 2026 https://theaterofthemindchicago.com/Steve Dale's interview with David Byrne https://stevedalepetworld.com/blog/conversation-with-david-byrne-booth-46/The book Steve recommended is Bicycle Diaries by David ByrneAsk the Dog by Steve Dale, illustrated by Shelby Koehler, is available wherever books are sold.Steve Dale is a certified animal behavior consultant, a radio host, and his show Steve Dale's Pet World is essential listening for everyone who loves pets. He co-edited Decoding Your Dog, written by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, and has written and contributed to many other books. Ask the Dog is his first children's book. Steve is the host of Steve Dale's Pet World on WGN radio and also hosts a Sunday afternoon talk show at WGN radio. Learn more about Steve and sign up for his newsletter at stevedale.tv.Support the showAbout the co-hosts:Kristi Benson is an honours graduate of, and now on staff with, the prestigious Academy for Dog Trainers and has her PCBC-A from the Pet Professional Accreditation Board. She lives in beautiful northern British Columbia, where she helps dog guardians through online classes. She is also a northern anthropologist.Kristi Benson's website  Facebook  Zazie Todd, PhD, is the award-winning author of Bark! The Science of Helping Your Anxious, Fearful, or Reactive Dog, Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy and Purr: The Science of Making Your Cat Happy. She is the creator of the popular blog, Companion Animal Psychology, and has a column at Psychology Today. She lives in Maple Ridge, BC, with her husband, a dog and a cat. Instagram  BlueSky 

This month’s Petcast features host Steve Dale speaking with Deborah Cribbs, the spokesperson for the Give Them Ten Foundation based in Cincinnati, that's on a mission to spread the word about spaying and neutering cats. It's the simplest and most humane way to address feline overpopulation. For more information, visit: www.givethemten.org.  Please enjoy the podcast.

Leo Roberts is Sir Galahad in Monty Python's Spamalot, opening May 19 at the CIBC Theatre (18 W. Monroe St.). Roberts joins Steve Dale to talk about members of the Monty Python Troupe he's met in real life. For tickets, visit Broadway in Chicago.

It's as intense as theater gets, and part horror – on stage, Covenant at the Goodman Theatre. Actress Anji White of TV's Fargo plays the mother you might not want to ever have, or maybe you do, and she joins Steve Dale to discuss the production. For tickets, visit the Goodman Theatre.

It may be the most important announcement ever in the history of WGN Radio: the Candy Hall of Fame is coming to town and will soon open on Michigan Avenue. Jeff Rubin, a Candy Hall of Fame inductee, joins Steve Dale to explain.

10th Ward Alderman Peter Chico, a former Chicago police officer, joins Steve Dale to express his views on the need for Shot Spotter, or a system like it, which has not been replaced despite the City’s promise to do so. He also talks about a nonprofit supporting first responders, called Light the Line, which Steve was […]

Chicago broadcast legend Bill Kurtis joins Steve Dale to discuss his book, Whirlwind: My Life Reporting the News. An argument can easily be made that Kurtis' style has changed Chicago and national broadcast news.

Steve Dale, WGN Radio's pet expert and host of Steve Dale's Pet World and Steve Dale's Other World, joins John Landecker to talk about what animal saved Dick Van Dyke’s life, does your dog laugh when you laugh, BARK annual walk to raise money for anti-cruelty, and more!

In this recorded Mother's Day interview with Steve Dale, Dionne Warwick talks about her two favorite productions, her sons. She says that as much as she still enjoys performing, her current CD, called DWuets, is her last. She is the queen of duets, having recorded and performed hundreds in her career, and she offers some of her […]

Actress Ruta Lee, who is about to celebrate her 91st birthday, is one of your favorite guests on Steve Dale's Other World, and she says Chicago is her favorite town. Lee's career includes appearing in films with the likes of Frank Sinatra and Fred Astaire, not to mention literally hundreds of TV guest shots.

Captain Kat Miller of Chicago's First Lady joins Steve Dale to discuss the various excursions they offer, from their famous Chicago Architecture Center-hosted cruises to the canine cruise for dogs, whose highlights will no doubt include the parks with the most squirrels.

Lucie Arnaz talks with Steve Dale about her kind-of-famous mom (Lucille Ball) and her own children on Mother's Day. She has a new book, Lucy and Desi: The Love Letters. But would Mom have wanted her to reveal these very personal notes? A candid conversation with Lucie can go anywhere, as she certainly speaks her mind.

The Buddy Foundation in Arlington Heights is an amazing animal shelter on many levels, guiding homeless pets toward loving homes while operating entirely with volunteer support. Longtime volunteer Louise Basgall shares details about their most important fundraiser, hosted by Steve Dale, happening May 28 at Chandler's Chophouse in Schaumburg. Darlene Duggan, president of Anti-Cruelty, highlights several key programs, including Bark, a […]

Joan Colletta, Founder of The Creative Conservancy, joins Steve Dale to talk about how she spends time with animals in their natural habitats. Joan shares her stories about volunteering for Rhino Conservation in South Africa, being around gorillas, and the importance of spreading education to prevent poaching.

Adrian Galante, Arranger and Musical Director of Going Bacharach, joins Steve Dale to discuss how the show is a tribute to the music of Burt Freeman Bacharach, one of the greatest American composers.  The show will be at the Apollo Theater, 2450 N. Lincoln Ave., from April 21st to May 17th.

Best known for playing George Costanza in Seinfeld, Jason Alexander joins Steve Dale to talk about directing Fault at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Jason shares what steered him toward the directing role, Hachi: A Dog’s Tale, and whether there will be a long-rumored Seinfeld reunion. Fault will be at the Shakespeare Theater at Navy Pier until May 24th.

Art Chat Daddy Sims, Community Outreach Manager, and Adam Helman, President and CEO of the nonprofit Guest House Chicago, join Steve Dale to discuss how they provide comfortable, affordable accommodations for patients and their families throughout their treatment. Guest House Chicago offers fully furnished apartments for medical patients and Rush Road Home participants through a […]

Steve Dale, WGN Radio's pet expert and host of Steve Dale's Pet World and Steve Dale's Other World, joins John Landecker to talk about Dog Bite Prevention Week.

Friday was International Jane Goodall Day in celebration of all she achieved. Steve Dale interviewed Dr. Goodall several times, including on WGN Radio. Though Dr. Goodall had only just begun to achieve, and left the planet more than a bit concerned, she never lost hope. Steve talks with Anna Rathman, executive director Jane Goodall Institute USA. […]

The last radio interview comedienne Judy Tenuta did was with Steve Dale. Steve talks with award-winning director and producer Brent Mata, about capturing the life of Judy Tenuta, in It Happened: The Judy Tenuta Story, a mini-biopic following the often wacky life and career of the ’80s accordion-playing comedienne. Steve’s Interview with Judy can be found here.

John Williams may have Thomas Jefferson, but Steve Dale has George Washington. A. D. Weaver is the Father of Our Country in the Hamilton Angelica Tour. He also talks with rotating cast member Asisha Sougou. Hamilton is showing at the CIBC Theatre (18 West Monroe St).

"I'm announcing that FIP is no longer considered fatal… and I looked up to see tears in the eyes of veterinarians around the world." This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund, OcuTrap, the Feline Behavior Summit 2026, and the TNR Certification Workshop. In this powerful and emotional episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron sits down with renowned animal behavior expert and advocate Steve Dale to explore groundbreaking advancements in feline health that are changing—and saving—lives. Steve shares the deeply personal story of his cat Ricky, whose diagnosis with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) sparked a decades-long mission to fund critical research through the EveryCat Health Foundation. What began as heartbreak has led to hope, including the development of a promising drug that can reverse heart enlargement in cats when caught early. The conversation then turns to one of the most historically devastating feline diseases: FIP (feline infectious peritonitis). Once considered a death sentence, FIP is now treatable thanks to years of persistence, research funding, and global collaboration. Steve walks us through the science, the setbacks, and the stunning breakthrough that has saved countless kittens—and even contributed to antiviral treatments used during the COVID-19 pandemic. Beyond the science, this episode highlights the evolving human-cat bond, the importance of understanding feline behavior, and why we are truly living in the "era of the cat." Whether you're a shelter professional, foster caregiver, or devoted cat owner, this conversation will leave you informed, inspired, and hopeful about the future of feline welfare. Press Play Now For: The surprising origin story of a piano-playing cat that changed everything How one cat's diagnosis led to life-saving HCM research A clear, accessible explanation of FIP and why it was once always fatal The breakthrough antiviral treatments now curing FIP in kittens How feline research contributed to human COVID-19 treatment Why understanding animal behavior can prevent bites and build trust The growing momentum behind "The Year (and Decade) of the Cat" Resources & Links EveryCat Health Foundation Steve Dale's Blog & Newsletter Ask the Dog by Steve Dale FIP Warriors Zen By Cat

Steve Dale, WGN Radio's pet expert and host of Steve Dale's Pet World and Steve Dale's Other World, joins John Landecker to talk about what goes into having a rabbit as a pet and shares tips to keep your rabbit healthy and safe.

Veterinary technician Kara Burns announces a fund she's launching to support studies for improved treatment for diabetic cats and other endocrine issues with the EveryCat Health Foundation. The fund is named for one her beloved cats, named O'Malley, and is the center EveryCat Springing into Action Campaign.   Burns also offers details about the upcoming April 11-12 Symposium […]

D. Jerome, the actor playing the Tin Man in The Wiz’s national tour, joins Steve Dale to talk about The Wiz’s 50th Anniversary Tour coming to The James M. Nederlander Theatre from March 31st – April 5, 2026. Listen in while D. Jerome shares what it’s like playing this iconic role and what it’s like […]

Erik Soderstrom, Senior Director of Programming at Ravinia, joins WGN's Steve Dale to highlight this year's major lineup of performances at Ravinia Festival, including Snoop Dogg, Paul Simon, Rod Stewart and many more. Erik and Steve also detail the history of Ravinia, some of the famous musicians who have appeared on stage, and Metra's role […]

Dr. Alphonsus Obayuwana, author of The Happiness Formula: A Scientific, Groundbreaking Approach to Happiness and Personal Fulfillment, joins WGN Radio’s Steve Dale to share the key to happiness. Listen in while Dr. Obayuwana shares what the Hope Index Scale (HIS) is, the science behind personal satisfaction, and more.

Chicago's own Dr. Anne Beall, award-winning multi-book author, joins Steve Dale to talk about her latest book titled The Compassionate Writer: Find Your Voice, Enhance Your Story, and Touch Lives. Listen in while Dr. Beall reminds listeners to write with courage, edit with kindness, and share their stories with the world.

WGN Radio’s Steve Dale is joined by Jaitee Thomas who stars as the legendary R&B singer in the Black Ensemble Theater’s 2026 production of The Jackie Wilson Story as they kick off their 50th Anniversary season. Listen in while Jaitee shares what makes Jackie one of the most influential performers of all time, Jackie’s relationship with […]

Chicago-native actor Lenin Izquierdo, who stars as Oscar in The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao at the Goodman Theatre, joins Steve Dale to talk about the show and his Chicago roots. For more information on the show, visit the Goodman Theatre.

Ryan Wagner, National Ambassador for the Guinness Open Gate Brewery and Head of Beer Quality joins Steve Dale to talk about the upcoming St. Patrick's Day festivities, why everything is green on St. Patty's day and how to best enjoy a perfect Guinness.

Dr. Jordan Metzl, nationally recognized sports medicine physician, best selling author, and fitness instructor, joins Steve Dale to discuss incorporating exercise into your diet and his book Push: Unlock the Science of Fitness Motivation to Embrace Health and Longevity. For more information, visit Dr. Jordan Metzl.

Singer Toni Tennille joins Steve Dale to talk about the making of the hit song, “Love Will Keep Us Together,” written by the late Neil Sedaka. She shared stories about their performances together and revisit classics.

Former governor Pat Quinn joins Steve Dale to talk about the Bear Down for Illinois campaign and the push to keep the Bears in Illinois. For more information, visit Bear Down for Illinois.

Noted pet expert Steve Dale joins Karen Conti to talk about his new book, ‘Ask the Dog’. Steve and Karen discuss why the dog bite rate is high today, the civil liability for dog bites, and a proposed Chicago ordinance that could allow dogs inside restaurants.

Steve Dale shares the heartbreaking news of the passing of a true broadcasting legend and dear friend, Betty Sanders (of the iconic “Bob and Betty” team). Steve reminisces about the early days of his career producing the legendary pair at WCFL, the invaluable lessons they taught him about class and connection, and why they were […]

Dr. Samantha Canning, an internal medicine specialist at Northwestern Medicine, joins Steve Dale to talk about everyone’s least favorite winter activity, getting sick. It's unlikely you live anywhere near Chicago and haven't either known someone or yourself who has experienced one of the really nasty upper respiratory viruses going around. What can you do to […]

Steve Dale is joined by legendary Hall of Fame broadcaster Mike “Doc” Emrick to celebrate a historic moment for American hockey. Doc and Steve break down the incredible “double gold” sweep—the first time in Olympic history both U.S. Men’s & Women’s teams have stood atop the podium in the same Games. They discuss the U.S. […]

Steve Dale catches up with the iconic Alison Arngrim, forever known to millions as the “girl you love to hate,” Nellie Oleson from Little House on the Prairie. Alison pulls back the curtain on her storied career and her New York Times best-selling memoir, Confessions of a Prairie B*tch: How I Survived Nellie Oleson and […]

The  Lincoln State Cat Club Cat Show is at the Kane County Fairgrounds, 25 S Randall Road, St. Charles, Feb. 21 -22. Show President Jeremy Basterash explains what cat shows are about. On Feb. 21st, Steve Dale will talk from 1 to 2:15 p.m, about a new Secure feline pheromone product and offer updates on cat health, specifically heart disease […]

Noted pet expert Steve Dale joins John Williams, to talk about his new book, “Ask the Dog!” He takes a listener question and teaches us the S.T.O.P. method when meeting new dogs.

Noted pet expert Steve Dale joins John Williams, to talk about his new book, “Ask the Dog!” He takes a listener question and teaches us the S.T.O.P. method when meeting new dogs.

Noted pet expert Steve Dale joins John Williams, to talk about his new book, “Ask the Dog!” He takes a listener question and teaches us the S.T.O.P. method when meeting new dogs.

Noted pet expert Steve Dale joins John Williams, to talk about his new book, “Ask the Dog!” He takes a listener question and teaches us the S.T.O.P. method when meeting new dogs.

Dog bites are more common than most people realize, and nearly all of them are preventable. This week on The Veterinary Viewfinder, Dr. Ernie Ward and Becky Mossor, MPA, RVT, welcome back longtime friend and Certified Animal Behavior Consultant, Steve Dale, to talk about his new children's book, Ask the Dog, and why it may be one of the most important dog bite prevention tools veterinarians can share. Each year, an estimated 4.5 million people in the U.S. are bitten by dogs, with hundreds of thousands requiring medical care. Steve explains why focusing only on asking the owner misses the most critical step: asking the dog. From subtle body language to displacement behaviors we routinely ignore, dogs often tell us when they are uncomfortable long before a bite happens. The conversation explores why hugging dogs, reaching hands toward faces, and forcing interactions can increase risk, even with familiar pets. The group also discusses the powerful role veterinary technicians and veterinarians play in translating dog behavior for clients, and how early education can reshape the next generation's relationship with dogs. This episode is a must-listen for veterinary teams, pet parents, and anyone who believes preventing dog bites starts with listening better. #VeterinaryViewfinder #DogBitePrevention #AskTheDog #DogBehavior #veterinarymedicine #VetTechLife #FearFree #HumanAnimalBond #AnimalWelfare #ClientEducation