Podcasts about wbez

Seven Save-A-Lot grocery stores across the South and West Sides could close their doors as early as Saturday if Yellow Banana, the company that owns and operates them, can't find new funding. Block Club Chicago's Atavia Reed is here with the latest. Plus, WBEZ's Kristen Schorsch joins us to detail the ongoing legal battles surrounding the recently shuttered West Suburban Hospital and provide a temperature check on Chicago's struggling safety net hospitals. Good News: 5th Annual Words of Wonder Literary Festival!, Roots: “The Brunch Experience”  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 July 24 episode: Visit Bloomington Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE 

Host Greta Johnsen talks with Sarah Wilson about her new book, I Eat the Stars: How to Live Fully and Beautifully in a Collapsing World. As the title suggests, Sarah's book explores the idea of sysrem collapse, a metacrisis we're already experiencing through climate crises, political upheaval, cultural isolationism, and fossil fuel consumption.This book isn't necessarily easy to read -- after all, it presents a pretty grim future for our current way of life. But Sarah also points out that many of the systems that are currently collapsing have been oppressing us from the beginning. And to that end, this book is an invitation to consider what to prioritize as humanity moves forward.SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposers: Ross Bellenoit and Jeremy ThalTile art: Mac MacleanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today, a City Council committee will question the details and effectiveness of the Mayor's “ICE on Notice” executive order as ICE sightings and arrests are up in Chicago. Mayor Brandon Johnson signed it back in January, following months of Operation Midway Blitz, and with it directed the Chicago Police Department to “investigate federal immigration agents and refer evidence of suspected illegal activity to the Cook County State's Attorney's Office.” WBEZ's Mariah Woelfel is here to discuss what, if anything, has changed in the last six months. Plus, Sun-Times reporter Erica Thompson tells us about her afternoon with 1,000 Chicago teens downtown. Good News: Silver Room Block Party We're doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We'd be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it's only 7 minutes long. You'll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. 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 July 17 episode: Visit Bloomington Destination Madison Newberry Library Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE 

Chicago gets a one-two punch with another heat wave combined with dangerous air quality. A North Side Trader Joe's becomes the first of the grocery chain's Illinois locations to unionize. And the Shedd Aquarium agrees to take in abandoned beluga whales from a closed marine park in Canada. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in the Weekly News Recap.GUESTS: Carrie Shepherd, Axios Chicago reporter Quinn Myers, Block Club Chicago reporter covering Wicker Park, West Town & Bucktown Bob Herguth, Chicago Sun-Times investigative reporterFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop. 

Today's episode is about public television, classic literature, and an extremely charismatic Jack Russell Terrier.Yes, we are talking about Wishbone, the iconic children's PBS show that aired from 1995 to 1998. It was about Wishbone the dog, who imagined himself as the star of many canonical texts such as The Odyssey, Romeo and Juliet, Oliver Twist, and Cyrano de Bergerac. The shoe aired for 50 episodes, and won 5 Daytime Emmys. There's a new documentary out about the show -- it's called What's the Story, Wishbone?. Host Greta Johnsen talks to two of the documentary's producers, who also worked on the original show -- Betty Buckley, who also produced Wishbone, and Larry Brantley, who played the voice of Wishbone himself.As the documentary explores, the show wasn't easy to make. The adaptations were ambitious, the production schedule was intense, and nothing like it had really been made before. But at the same time, there's a tangible sense of curiosity and joy. And of course, a charming dog in pantaloons is always a delight. SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposers: Ross Bellenoit and Jeremy ThalTile art: Mac MacleanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal appeals court in Chicago upholds Illinois' assault weapons ban one week after the U.S. Supreme Court agrees to consider a challenge to the ban in Cook County. Former Chicago mayor Rahm Emmanuel makes headlines after a controversial speech in Israel. Plus, the CTA says crime is down 30% percent over last year.In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in the Weekly News Recap.GUESTS: David Greising, president, Better Government AssociationOlivia Olander, state government reporter, Chicago TribuneMitch Armentrout, Chicago Sun-Times reporter covering government and politicsFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Welcome to our Summer series! This week on Queer News, Anna DeShawn continues to bring you the stories that matter most to our community! Join Anna for an exclusive interview with Brave Space Alliance's new CEO Nikki Patin. Nikki Patin has been serving as the CEO for Brave Space Alliance for one month, but before then Nikki's had quite the career. Featured in The Guardian, Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Reader, Windy City Times and on WBEZ, WTTW, and HBO, Nikki Patin has been writing, performing, educating, leading organizations and advocating for over two decades.    Nikki talks with Anna about who they are, what qualified them for the CEO position out of the 100 applicants who applied, their tentative 10-year strategic plan for the future of Brave Space Alliance, and the impact Brave Space Alliance has had on the LGBTQ+ community. Brave Space Alliance (BSA) is an LGBTQ+ focused community center on Chicago's South Side that welcomes and serves all who come through our doors.  They strive to empower, embolden, and educate each other through mutual aid, knowledge-sharing, and the creation of community-sourced resources as we build a world of liberty and justice for all. Want to support this podcast?

Host Greta Johnsen talks to author and poet Paige Lewis. Their novel Canon is the GRETAGRAM book club selection for July. Canon is difficult to describe -- it pays homage to many classic epics and is deeply rooted in the Bible, But it's also extremely irreverent, funny, and weird. Ultimately, it's a nonbinary hero's journey with Good Guys and Bad Guys and a wonderful talking whale. Greta and Paige talk about OCD, the nature of evil, the sensationalism of violence, and FUN ANIMAL FACTS!There are three ways you can participate in book club:Listen to this spoiler-free conversation with Paige, then read the book, then sit back and relax!Do the first two things above, but leave Greta a voicemail with your thoughts by Monday, July 27! Just record yourself on your smartphone and email the tile to greta m johnsen at gmail dot com.Listen to the podcast, read the book, and come to the Zoom discussion on Sunday, August 2 at noon Central Time! Email Greta for the link. UPCOMING BOOK CLUB BOOKS:August: Land, Maggie O'Farrell (out now)September: Pool House, Mary H.K. Choi (out now) October: Exit Party, Emily St. John Mandel (out Sept. 14) November: Ply, Hernan Diaz (out Sept. 29)December: The True Confessions of First Lady Freeman, Deesha Philyaw (out Sept. 29)SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposers: Ross Bellenoit and Jeremy ThalShow art: Mac MacleanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mayor Johnson wants to give Chicago renters new protections, Governor Pritzker issues a state disaster proclamation over extreme weather as the Chicago region remains under extreme heat warning. Plus, Police Superintendent Larry Snelling and Chicago FBI Chief DePodesta announce abrupt resignations.In the Loop breaks down those stories and more.GUESTS: Leigh Giangreco, freelance journalistRummana Hussain, Chicago Sun-Times opinion pages editor and columnist Shia Kapos, Politico reporter and author of Politico's Illinois Playbook newsletterFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

The June GRETAGRAM book club selection is Julia Langbeing's Dear Monica Lewinsky, a novel that explores sainthood, desire, the legacy of Monica Lewinsky, and the history of horny nuns. Host Greta Johnsen discusses the book with Gwen Kirby, the author of the wonderful short story collection Shit Cassandra Saw. Together, we unpack what makes this book SO GOOD, from tone to topic to setting to structure.SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposers: Ross Bellenoit and Jeremy ThalTile art: Mac MacleanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a violent weekend with eight killed and 40 injured, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson joins calls for the creation of a new Department of Gun Violence Reduction. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court strikes down Hawaii's restrictive gun law. And embattled U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros announces plans to review the work of a “Broadview Six” prosecutor going back to 2007. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more.GUESTS: Paris Schutz, NBC 5 political and investigative reporterMaxwell Evans, Block Club Chicago reporter Violet Miller, Chicago Sun-Times general assignment reporter Alma Campos, Chicago Sun-Times immigration reporterFor a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Nurses everywhere are fed up. They're organizing and walking picket lines more than ever before. Here in the Chicago area, more than 2,000 of them have voted to unionize in just the last month. On today's In the Loop, we'll hear first-hand accounts from a couple of local nurses and a journalist who's been following their efforts. GUESTS: Jessica Ahn, registered nurse in the emergency department at Saint Mary of Nazareth Hospital Sarah Louise Dawson, registered nurse in medical ICU at Rush University Medical Center Kristen Schorsch, WBEZ public health and politics reporter For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

No you're not seeing things – we're bringing you our Weekly News Recap a day early! Illinois Governor JB Pritzker promises to be “very involved” in the 2028 presidential election. A man accused of burning a cross in Grant Park faces hate crime and arson charges. The U.S. Department of Justice challenges Evanston's reparations program. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in our Weekly News Recap. GUESTS: Talia Soglin, Chicago Tribune transportation and labor reporter Lee Bey, Chicago Sun-Times architecture critic Justin Laurence, Crain's Chicago Business government and politics reporter For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Housing advocates have warned that the Obama Presidential Center could price out longtime residents. So far, the cost of single and multi-family homes in Woodlawn closest to the Obama Center have doubled since 2019, and less than a third of housing stock in the area was considered affordable. Also, the number of short-term rentals, like Airbnb, are increasing in the neighborhoods around the Presidential Center, which takes potential rental housing out of the market. In the Loop digs into how the city has fallen short of delivering on promises aimed at protecting residents from displacement, and how the growth of Airbnbs in the area is impacting affordability. GUESTS: Sidnee King Pineda, journalist, Illinois Answers Project Infiniti Gant, housing organizer, Southside Together Kristy Ramsey, Airbnb host, Woodlawn resident Cam Rodriguez, WBEZ data reporter Alexandra Salomon, WBEZ senior editor For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Walgreens has shuttered two more South Side locations, including the Chatham location, after closing five in 2025. Ald. William Hall (6th) wants to launch the city's first-ever Office of Pharmacy Access to create publicly owned alternatives. Block Club Chicago's Atavia Reed and WBEZ's Sarah Karp are here with details. Plus, we're recapping Chicago Public Schools Supt. Macquline King's congressional testimony in Washington this week.  Good News: Movies In The Parks, Chicago Music Legacy Tour, Simeon's First Play in Decade 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 Friday, June 12 episode: Visit Bloomington Friends of San Damiano Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE 

Chicago police investigate a cross burning and potential hate crime in Grant Park. Governor Pritzker says he's open to calling a special legislative session to reach a Bears stadium deal. Former Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel pedals presidential aspirations on a bike tour of New Hampshire. In the Loop breaks down those stories and much more with Axios' Carrie Shepherd, Chicago Tribune's Dan Petrella, and WBEZ's Alden Loury. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Is Indiana the inevitable new home for the Bears, or is the leap toward Hammond just a stealthy negotiation tactic to put pressure on Illinois? The team announced Friday that its board of directors has voted to push forward with developing a stadium in Hammond, Ind., even though an exact site has not been selected yet. So are Chicago and Arlington Heights really out of the running? Will the fans follow the team to Hammond? How did we get here? In The Loop digs in. Our panel today: Indiana State Rep. Earl Harris, Jr.; Cheryl Raye-Stout, WBEZ sports contributor; Prof. Deborah Carroll, director, UIC's Government Finance Research Center. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

It's the first Friday of the month, which means it's time for a new book to read! This month's selection is Julia Langbein's phenomenal novel Dear Monica Lewinsky, and Julia is today's guest on the show.The book is about Jean, whose life was derailed the summer after her sophomore year in college. When she travels to France to study medieval religious history, she meets a charismatic professor and decides to pursue an affair with him. The repercussions of that choice echo through her life, and she's still haunted as an adult. When she realizes her summer abroad was the same summer the Monica Lewinsky story broke in the United States, Jean prays to Monica, asking for forgiveness. That's when a vision of Monica Lewinsky appears to Jean, and she's able to relive her summer in France. When Tom Perrotta blurbed Julia's first novel American Mermaid, he said, “It probably shouldn't work, but it succeeds brilliantly, thanks to Julia Langbein's tonal control and wicked sense of humor,” and the same can be said for Dear Monica Lewinsky. This book may be hard to describe, but it's a joy to read, and it's also a searing examination of female desire and the prices we pay to pursue it.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

ICE agents sparked chaos in Chicago's Albany Park neighborhood, crashing into a woman's car and threatening residents as they chased and detained a man. Media outlets got a preview of the Obama Presidential Center campus. Developers break ground on a $7-billion project around the United Center. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in the Weekly News Recap with WBEZ senior statehouse reporter Mawa Iqbal, Chicago Tribune government reporter A.D. Quig and Block Club Chicago reporter Quinn Myers. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

It's the last Friday of May, which means it's time to discuss T Kira Madden's novel Whidbey!Host Greta Johnsen talks to self-professed T Kira stan Kristen Arnett, the author of several novels. (Her most recent book, Stop Me If You've Heard This One, is especially wonderful!)They unpack what makes this complex novel so readable: nuanced themes, compelling characters, tangible sense of place, and propulsive plot.TRIGGER WARNING: This book deals with themes of child sexual abuse, which we discuss. SPOILER ALERT: This episode includes spoilers for the book. If you haven'y read it yet a nd you don't want to know what happens, listen to the spoiler-free author interview here. For more information on the GRETAGRAM book club, sign up for Greta's newsletter, GRETAGRAM!SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposers: Ross Bellenoit and Jeremy ThalTile art: Mac MacleanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Obama Presidential Center announces the schedule for its grand opening. Chicago's U.S. Attorney's Office says it's instituting reforms after the high-profile case against a group of ICE protesters falls apart because of prosecutorial misconduct. Plus, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson visits Pope Leo XIV in Rome. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more with freelance journalist and City Cast Chicago contributor Brandon Pope, Illinois Answers Project reporter Alex Nitkin and Chicago Sun-Times reporter Violet Miller. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Host Greta Johnsen talks to two of her favorite readers -- MJ Franklin, an editor at the New York Times Book Review and host of The Book Review Book Club podcast, and Traci Thomas, who hosts the wonderfully bookish podcast The Stacks.Even though the three of them have WILDLY different reading tastes, they also have an abundance of respect for each other, so these conversations are always a treat. Here's a list of each of their recommendations: Greta's picks: The Children, Melissa Albert (June 2)Land, Maggie O'Farrell (June 2)Etna, Paul Yoon August 4Traci's picks:Crossroads: A Memoir in Baseball and Life, Dusty Baker (June 9)The Great Wherever, Shannon Sanders (July 7) Seasons of Fury: Four Families and the Rise of Islamophobia in America, Rozina Ali (August 25)MJ's picks:Country People, Daniel Mason (July 7)Fixer Chao, Han Ong (July 14)The Mortons, Justine Larbalestier and Scott Westerfeld (July 21)SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposers: Ross Bellenoit and Jeremy ThalTile art: Mac MacleanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

City Council reached a near-unanimous decision to pause the subminimum wage hike for tipped workers this week. When they voted to free the subminimum wage hike back in March, Mayor Brandon Johnson ultimately vetoed their decision. Johnson confirmed this week he will accept this compromise and not pursue another veto. WBEZ's Susie An and Block Club Chicago's Madison Savedra are here to discuss why this ordinance is being reversed just three years in. Plus, Illinois is getting millions for lead pipe removal, and changes are coming to Ravenwood's popular Del Sur Bakery.  Good News: South West Side Zine Library 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 Friday, May 22 episode: Enjoy Illinois Broadway In Chicago - Spamalot Newberry Library Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Happy Friday! It's been another busy week in politics, the economy, and more. So before you head out for the long Memorial Day weekend, get caught up on the top local stories you need to know about: Illinois lawmakers debate insurance rate reform and prescription drug costs, charges are dropped against the Broadview Six, and Chicago broadcast journalists sue big tech. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in the Weekly News Recap. Our panel today: Nick Blumberg, WTTW News correspondent; David Greising, president of the Better Government Association; and Bob Herguth, Chicago Sun-Times investigative reporter. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

WXPN morning host and assistant music director Kristen Kurtis offers host Greta Johnsen three songs to enjoy this summer, and they are all BOPS: Zinadeplhia, “River”Parlor Greens, “Eat Your Greens”Allison Russell, “Cold April” ft. Kara Jackson, Denitia, and Explore! Pop ChoirSHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposers: Ross Bellenoit and Jeremy ThalTile art: Mac MacleanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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.

Illinois needs over 100,000 units to fill a severe housing shortage. Gov. Pritzker has a new plan to address this problem, the Building Up Illinois Developments, or BUILD. Housing advocates say the BUILD plan will help with housing affordability, particularly in neighborhoods with high demand. But some are concerned that this plan will take power from local municipalities and open the door for big developments in areas with mostly single family homes. In the Loop learns more about the basics of the bill currently working its way through the Illinois House and Senate from Mawa Iqbal, WBEZ statehouse reporter. We hear potential pros of the plan from Jeff Baker, CEO, Illinois Realtors and potential cons from Doug Pollock, president, Village of Riverside. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Fran Spielman and WBEZ's Mariah Woelfel mark Brandon Johnson's three-year anniversary as Chicago mayor. Mayor Johnson discusses his family milestones and argues his administration has improved its messaging while citing a 60-year low in homicides, reopened public mental health clinics, increased downtown visitors, and stabilizing census trends. Pressed on CPS's $732 million deficit and potential classroom cuts, he insists the State of Illinois must fully fund schools through progressive revenue such as a digital ad tax or billionaire/millionaire taxes, rejects school closures as repeating past failures.

Sweeping changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program made by the federal government last year are now going into effect. In the Loop gets updates and hears how changes to SNAP benefits are impacting local grocery stores and Chicago-area families. Guest host Mariah Woelfel, WBEZ city government reporter, checks in with Nolan Downey of the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Melody Winston of Living Fresh Market in Forest Park and Sally Schulze of RefugeeOne. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Months after the end of Operation Midway Blitz, immigration enforcement and detention is still underway in the Chicago area. But as federal agents have pivoted to a quieter approach, so too have rapid responders — advocates who work to provide fast on-the-ground help to people vulnerable to immigration raids and arrests. In the Loop checks in with Cristóbal Cavazos of the Casa DuPage Workers Center, Mimi Guiracocha of Pilsen Unidos por Ñuestro Orgullo (PUÑO) and WBEZ immigration reporter Adriana Cardona-Maguigad. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Host Greta Johnsen talks with profesisonal organizer Kelly Brask about how Swedish death cleaning can help you live better by getting rid of the things that no longer fit int your life and keeping the things that are useful and joyul for you. She also offers hints for how to organize your space and encourages you to embrace cleanliness while avoiding perfectionism. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ready for a week's worth of news in under an hour? Illinois State Police open an investigation into the ICE shooting of Silverio Villegas González. Mayor Johnson goes on the offense against the Bears in Springfield. Tickets for the opening of the Obama Center go on sale. And that's just the tip of the iceberg. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in the Weekly News Recap. Our panel today: Carrie Shepherd, Axios Chicago reporter; Jake Sheridan, Chicago Tribune city hall reporter; and Mitch Armentrout, Chicago Sun-Times reporter covering government and politics. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Host Greta Johnsen talks with T Kira Madden, whose novel Whidbey is the GRETAGRAM Book Club selection for May. (TW: Child sexual abuse.)Whidbey is told from the points of view of three women who are all connected to Calvin, a sexual precator: Mary Beth, his mother, and Birdie and Linzie, who victims who approach their trauma in very different ways. T Kira talks about the book's enticing opening scene, the ways that victimhood can be exploited, and whether she considers writing fiction to be cathartic. SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposers: Ross Bellenoit and Jeremy ThalTile art: Mac MacleanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chicago's Cinco de Mayo parade is cancelled for a second year due to immigration enforcement fears. IBM announces a new innovation center at the Quantum and Microelectronics Park on Chicago's South Side, pledging hundreds of jobs for City College graduates. Meanwhile, in Springfield, the Illinois legislature is finalizing its game plan to keep the Chicago Bears in Illinois. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more with Block Club Chicago reporter Mack Liederman, Chicago Sun-Times reporter Mary Norkol and Alex Nitkin, Illinois Answers Project government finance and accountability reporter. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Host Greta Johnsen talks with Roxana Jullapat, head baker and co-owner at the Los Angeles restaurant Friends & Family. Her new cookbook is Morning Baker: Recipes and Rituals for Breakfast and Beyond.In 2019, she wrote Mother Grains: Recipes for the Grain Revolution, a thorough compendium of heritage grains and everything they have to offer. Roxana says the new cookbook is just as devoted to whole grains, but it's a little more joyful. “There's a lot more spontaneity,” she said. “It truly is a reflection of what we make at Friends & Family, and what it means to be a grain head.”SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposers: Ross Bellenoit and Jeremy ThalShow art: Mac MacleanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Residents are still cleaning up basements and backyards after record-breaking rainfall. Gov. JB Pritzker says all bets are off for state employees on prediction markets. Body cam video of the shooting of Officer Krystal Rivera is released to the public. And Chicago Public School lunchroom staff block traffic over stalled contract talks. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in the Weekly News Recap. Our panel today: Christian Farr, NBC-5 Chicago reporter; Geoff Buchholz, WBBM Newsradio political editor; and Sarah Karp, WBEZ Education reporter. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Host Greta Johnsen talks to author Rufi Thrope, whose novel Margo's Got Money Troubles was just adapted into a series on Apple TV+.The show's cast is stacked -- it stars Elle Fanning as Margo, a young woman who becomes pregnant after an affair with her college professor. She decides to keep the baby, much to the chagrin of her own single mom Shyanne, played by Michelle Pfeiffer. Margo's absentee former pro wrestler dad, Jinx, is played by Nick Offerman. Rufi and Greta talk about the magic of seeing a novel in a whole new dimension, what Rufi is working on next, and the utter absurdity of living with the cuddly monster known as the Bull Terrier. SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposers: Ross Bellenoit and Jeremy ThalShow art: Mac MacleanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A former ComEd CEO and an ally of former Illinois House speaker Michael Madigan are both freed from prison and granted new trials. A Wisconsin sheriff files a defamation lawsuit against a Skokie woman and a Cook County Commissioner. Meanwhile, Illinois lawmakers pass legislation limiting junk fees for renters. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more with Axios Chicago reporter Carrie Shepherd, Chicago Tribune transportation and labor reporter Talia Soglin and WBEZ city politics reporter Mariah Woelfel. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

Hundreds of Chicago Catholic school students have found out some additional resources they rely on, like tutors, classroom aides, and after-school programs, will no longer be available through the end of the school year. Who is to blame between CPS and the Archdiocese? Well, it depends who you ask. We are joined by WBEZ's Adora Namigadde and freelance journalist Yareni Murillo. Plus, arts events supporting Chicago immigrants and Ford City Mall ordered to close.  Good News: Earth Fest, Pilsen Community Art House, Butterfly Effect Project  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 Thursday, April 16 episode: Window Nation Paramount Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Ben's beloved Bulls trade for a clubhouse preacher who asks reporters if they fornicated before marriage. He also has bad knees. Ben riffs. Alden Loury talks property tax and politics—or the politics of property tax. What prompted voters to oust Assessor Fritz Kaegi? Hint—rising property taxes. Well, that's not a hint so much as the answer. Was that fair to Kaegi? Will the next assessor make a difference? Also, Maria Pappas reveals she knows how to play the property tax game. Alden is an editor for WBEZ and Sun-Times columnist.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Greta's guest today will be familiar to longtime Nerdette listeners -- her name is Kate Schatz, and she's an activist and author. She co-wrote Do the Work: An Antiracist Activity Book with W Kamau Bell, and she's the author of Rad American Women A-Z and Rad Women Worldwide.Now, she's back with her first novel for adults! Where the Girls Were takes place in the Bay Area in 1968. It's about Baker, a teenager whose future is bright -- until she meets a boy, and has sex with that boy, and gets pregnant. Baker ends up at a “home for wayward girls,” a residence program where young pregnant women would be hidden from society until they gave birth. Their babies would be put up for adoption and the girls were expected to return home as if nothing ever happened. “This is a book about choice and reproductive freedom and bodily autonomy and how truly complicated and nuanced it all is,” Kate says. Kate talks with Greta about why she set the book in ‘68, the sneaky nefariousness of the word “unfit,” and where she finds comfort during tumultuous times. SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposers: Ross Bellenoit and Jeremy ThalShow art: Mac MacleanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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.

An unimportant investigation into the difference between cupcakes and muffins with Bon Appetit test kitchen editor Shilpa Uscocovic.SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposers: Ross Bellenoit and Jeremy ThalTile art: Mac MacleanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chicagoans are still asking if the feds will return to the city after Operation Midway blitz. WBEZ's Curious City recently tackled whether the federal presence here constituted martial law. We are joined by WBEZ's Erin Allen and Mike Davis. Plus, boos rain down at the Jeffs, and an international student's attempt to run every Chicago street hits a major roadblock. 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 April 3 episode: The Other Art Fair Steppenwolf Theatre Window Nation Chicago Architecture Center Walking Tours Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Police Supt. Larry Snelling faces public questioning about whether Chicago police coordinated with ICE agents. Illinois politicians respond to the firing of U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi. Thousands gather in Grant Park and suburbs for the third No Kings rally. University of Illinois makes it to NCAA's Final Four, while the Bulls dismiss a player for social media posts. In the Loop breaks down those stories and more in the Weekly News Recap with Nick Blumberg, WTTW News correspondent; Sophie Sherry, Chicago Sun-Times staff reporter; and Brandon Pope, freelance journalist. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

In 1819, Illinois lawmakers enacted the Black Laws, which required Black people to have a certificate of freedom to live in Illinois and made it illegal to gather in groups of three or more. That is, however, unless the gathering was for religious observances. From then on, churches made for and by Black people became hubs for connecting each other to resources, for education, as well as providing a spiritual home. In an ongoing series, WBEZ explores the history of Black churches in Chicago and their impact on their communities, faith and social justice movements. In the Loop sits down with Nicole Jeanine Johnson, WBEZ and CST investigative reporting fellow; Alden Loury, WBEZ senior data projects editor; and the Rev. John Smith of Olivet Baptist Church to learn more. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.

For this deep-dive discussion of Tayari Jones' novel Kin, host Greta Johnsen talks with Traci Thomas, who hosts The Stacks podcast. They talk about the exquisite pleasure of reading a book that does exactly what it sets out to do, the beauty of female friendship, and the different ways the main characters are mothered despite the absence of their actual mothers. Warning: this is a spoilery conversation! If you haven't read the book yet, go listen to Greta's spoiler-free conversation with Tayari. SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposers: Ross Bellenoit and Jeremy ThalTile art: Mac MacleanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Greta Johnsen and Kristen Meinzer discuss the finale of My So-Called Life -- “In Dreams Begin Responsibilities” -- with Pop Culture Happy Hour host Linda Holmes and Ronald Young, Jr., who hosts Weight for It. They talk about the centrality of Angela and Rayanne's friendship, the power of Patty's nostalgia trip, and how the episode works as both a season and series finale. Plus, Greta and Kristen talk to Winnie Holzman, the creator of My So-Called Life. about how fulfilling it is to hear stories about the show's impact even though it aired more than 30 years ago. She reflects on one of the main throughlines of her career: wanting to work on creatively inspiring teams.SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenCo-host: Kristen MeinzerSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposer: Andrew M. EdwardsTile art: Lou LovisekSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's MSCL rewatch episode, Greta Johnsen and Kristen Meinzer discuss My So-Called Life episodes 17 and 18 -- “Betrayal” and “Weekend” -- with Soraya Roberts, a culture writer and contributing writer at Defector who wrote the the book In My Humble Opinion: My So-Called Life.They talk about THE BEYRAYAL, whether Jordan actually loved Angela, and what Brian's deal is.SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenCo-host: Kristen MeinzerSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposer: Andrew M. EdwardsTile art: Lou LovisekSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Greta Johnsen and Kristen Meinzer discuss My So-Called Life episodes 15 and 16 -- “So-Called Angels” and “Resolutions” -- with Jenn White, the host of the NPR show 1A.They talk about the ups and downs of what Jenn (somewhat facetiously) calls “a very special episode of My So-Called Life,” the devastation and sweetness of Ricky's story, and the fact that Sharon is “just a nice, middle-class suburban girl who's horny,” as Kristen put it.SHOW CREDITSCreator and host: Greta JohnsenCo-host: Kristen MeinzerSenior Producer: Ben GoldbergComposer: Andrew M. EdwardsTile art: Lou LovisekSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.