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Chicago Way w/John Kass (05/27/25): This week, John Kass tries to get to the bottom of Jeff Carlin’s bad mood by sharing stories from his weekend in the city celebrating his wedding 39th wedding anniversary. Plus, Kasso wonders if his love for Chicago can ever be redeemed. Check out more from Kass at JohnKassNews.com or contact me at john@johnkassnews.com, […]
Second City Works presents "Getting to Yes, And" on WGN Plus
Kelly has a fascinating conversation with University of Toronto professor Christopher DiCarlo where they discuss his new book: “Building a God: The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and the Race to Control It.” “Let me be very clear: the threat from AI of existential risk and annihilation to humanity is very real.” “The word ‘robot' is derived […]
Anthony Mateos, an Evanston Township High School junior, joins Rick Kogan to talk about his book, Who We Are: Stories from the Chicago StreetWise Community. Anthony explains the process of getting the book published and comments on the response the book has received in the local community.
On this airing of The Great Outdoors, Charlie Potter questions whether AI can forecast the weather faster and with greater accuracy, and also shares how university research reductions may impact conservation work.
Elder law attorney Kathryn Casey joins Karen Conti to discuss the importance of estate planning with family members sooner rather than later. Kathryn explains the difference between elder law attorneys and estate planning attorneys and dives in on the role of a power of attorney.
Military lawyer and Army veteran John Maher joins Karen Conti to share some stories and insights on the Memorial Day holiday. John details the medals that veterans can be honored with and breaks down the basis of military law. John also explains what the law says for soldiers who are in combat.
Mike Stephen learns about recruiting candidates for local office through the 100K Project with lead organizer and steering committee member Tom Tresser and then gets an update on some local education issues with Chalkbeat Chicago bureau chief Becky Vevea.
This week's New to Lou Too is the Handy Sandy Roller Bag Grocery Cooler. Combine functionality with convenience by providing a reliable solution for transporting your groceries while keeping them at the optimal temperature! It's available on Amazon. For more info, visit the YouTube HouseSmarts Channel.
Lou Manfredini, A.K.A. Mr. Fix-It is back with great advice for homeowners, special guests, information on new products, and more!
Featured on WGN Radio's Home Sweet Home Chicago on 05/24/25: Perma-Seal Basement Systems' Chief Operating Officer Joel Spencer discusses leveling municipal sidewalks, preparing for storms, and installing drain systems. To learn more about Perma-Seal’s services, go to permaseal.net or call 1-800-421-SEAL (7325).
Featured on WGN Radio's Home Sweet Home Chicago on 05/24/25: Andrew Simmons, Owner & Operator of Simmons Power & Soft Washing, joins to discuss the value that powerwashing can add to a home, oil stains on driveways, and roof cleanings. Visit simmonspower-softwash.com for more information and for a free quote, call (847) 416-8869.
Featured on WGN Radio's Home Sweet Home Chicago on 05/24/25: Lindholm Roofing's Assistant Manager Mike Huston to the rescue! Listen in while Mike talks about roof inspection practices, gutters, and more! To learn more about what Lindholm Roofing can do for you, go to lindholmroofing.com or call them at 773-283-7675.
We started off this week's show by chatting with Perma-Seal Basement Systems' Chief Operating Officer, Joel Spencer, about preparing your home for storms. Lindholm Roofing's Assistant Manager Mike Huston, joined the show to talk about roof inspection practices. Then, Andrew Simmons, owner and Operator of Simmons Power & Soft Washing, shares the benefits of power washing and talks […]
The Writer Files: Writing, Productivity, Creativity, and Neuroscience
New York Times bestselling author Laura Munson spoke to me about her acclaimed writing retreats, building a bridge to readers, and bringing wonder back into our lives with her latest THE WILD WHY. Laura Munson is the New York Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author of the novel Willa's Grove and the memoir This Is Not The Story You Think It Is. She is also an editor and Founder of the top-ranked Haven Writing Retreats. Her new book is THE WILD WHY: Stories and Teachings to Uncover Your Wonder. A Maria Shriver Sunday Paper Pick, “For fans of Brené Brown's Daring Greatly, Glennon Doyle's Untamed, and Elizabeth Gilbert's Big Magic, this illuminating self-help tool is the perfect book for anyone who yearns to rekindle their own voice.” Laura has been featured or published in Vanity Fair, Elle, Redbook, Time, Newsweek, The New York Times' “Modern Love” column, The New York Times Magazine, O, The Oprah Magazine, and many others. She has appeared on Good Morning America, The Early Show, WGN, NPR, London's This Morning, Australia's Sunrise, and other global media outlets. [Discover The Writer Files Extra: Get 'The Writer Files' Podcast Delivered Straight to Your Inbox at writerfiles.fm] [If you're a fan of The Writer Files, please click FOLLOW to automatically see new interviews. And drop us a rating or a review wherever you listen] In this file Laura Munson and I discussed: How to rekindle your true voice Why we lose wonder in our worried world Her life's journey to live in her truth The importance of finding radical empathy How to eradicate the “tortured artist” pattern And a lot more! Show Notes: lauramunson.com The Wild Why: Stories and Teachings to Uncover Your Wonder by Laura Munson (Amazon) Laura Munson on Facebook Laura Munson on Instagram Kelton Reid on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Second City Works presents "Getting to Yes, And" on WGN Plus
Kelly welcomes renowned playwright, poet and teacher Sarah Ruhl back to the podcast. Sarah is a two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist, a Tony Award nominee, and the recipient of the MacArthur Genius Fellowship. She has a new book, it's called “Lessons from My Teachers.” “Our phones can give us facts but not story; information, but not relation.” […]
Enjoy this edition of “The Best of Speed Jokes.” What was your favorite joke of the week? Keep sending your jokes to JohnWilliams@wgnradio.com!
Liz Shulman, English teacher at Evanston Township High School and in the School of Education and Social Policy at Northwestern University, joins John Williams once again to talk about how she managed the school year. Liz tells John about her recent piece in the Wall Street Journal about showing her students ‘The Breakfast Club,’ how the cell phone […]
WGN host and auto racing expert Dane Neal joins John Williams to preview the 109th running of the sold-out Indy 500! Dane talks about the possibility of seeing an EV in the Indy 500, how fast the cars will be going this year, why he thinks anything can happen in this year’s race, the drivers that he will be looking […]
Lisa Dent checks in with the newsroom to hear their stories.
Mortgage and real estate expert David Hochberg joins Lisa Dent to share how the market reacts to Trump’s “big, beautiful bill.” David also shares what WGN listeners are talking to him about.
Lisa Dent checks in with the newsroom to hear their stories.
Lou Manfredini joins Lisa Dent in his weekly segment, Ask Lou, where he answers your questions about home repair. This week, Lou answers a number of WGN Radio listener questions, such as how efficient split ACs are, power washing decks, and the steps for trampoline maintenance!
Kevin O’Connell of Operation Flags for Vets joins Lisa Dent to discuss the need for volunteers this weekend. Their annual event, this Saturday morning in Des Plaines, will help place over 5,500 flags at veterans’ grave sites. Volunteers will meet at 700 N. River Road on May 24 at 8:30 a.m.
Ilyce Glink, CEO of Best Money Moves financial wellness company, joins Lisa Dent to share the numbers and stats of Memorial Day. Then, Glink shares the latest news surrounding tariffs placed on Apple and the EU.
Mark Jaynes, the Voice of the Indy 500 and IndyCar Radio anchor, joins Lisa Dent to talk about his background in broadcasting and how he became the Voice of the Indy 500. And, Jaynes shares which drivers to look out for on Sunday. The 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500 can be heard Sunday morning, […]
Dermatology physician assistant Renata Block joins Lisa Dent to discuss the effectiveness of sunscreen. They discuss a new report that found only one in four sunscreens can safely protect you from the sun. Renata shares what types of sunscreens you should look for and how to use them appropriately.
On May 23rd, 2025, Steve Grzanich shares today's potential market drivers:
Shamus Toomey, Editor in Chief and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. Shamus has details on: After Uber Caught Overcharging Chicago Riders, City And State Push To Regulate Rideshares: Block Club reported that Uber was overcharging the city's downtown congestion fee. A city […]
Chicago radio personality and Barguments podcast host Dan Levy joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to talk about the start of grilling season and the best recipes for listeners to fire up on the grill this summer. Wendy, Dan, and Dave Eanet each comment on ways they clean their grills, and then Wendy shares a tasty […]
WGN’s Dane Neal joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to set the stage for the 2025 Indianapolis 500. Dane discusses the excitement leading up to the race and highlights some of the great food available for fans to purchase. The Indy 500 coverage gets underway at 9:00 AM Sunday morning with Dane on WGN […]
Tanner Mitchell, known as Tanner the Planter, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to chat about ways to keep your indoor plants healthy longer as well as tips for repotting houseplants. Tanner also details some ingredients and fertilizers to use to enhance the life of your plants. You can find Tanner’s plant advice and […]
Dean Richards, entertainment reporter for WGN, joins Wendy Synder, in for Bob Sirott, to provide details on the latest news in entertainment. Wendy and Dean talk about the ‘Avengers’ delay, ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ release date, Sofia Vergara’s thoughts on dating, ‘Lilo & Stitch’, ‘Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning’, and more.
WGN host and auto racing expert Dane Neal joins John Williams to preview the 109th running of the sold-out Indy 500! Dane talks about the possibility of seeing an EV in the Indy 500, how fast the cars will be going this year, why he thinks anything can happen in this year’s race, the drivers that he will be looking […]
Enjoy this edition of “The Best of Speed Jokes.” What was your favorite joke of the week? Keep sending your jokes to JohnWilliams@wgnradio.com!
Liz Shulman, English teacher at Evanston Township High School and in the School of Education and Social Policy at Northwestern University, joins John Williams once again to talk about how she managed the school year. Liz tells John about her recent piece in the Wall Street Journal about showing her students ‘The Breakfast Club,’ how the cell phone […]
Steve Grzanich has the business news of the day with the Wintrust Business Minute. Oberweis Dairy is planning an expansion just a year after it was acquired out of bankruptcy by a new owner. Hoffman Family of Companies purchased the 100-year-old company last June and has spent the last year upgrading stores and buying real […]
Segment 1: Liza Lefkowski, Vice President of Merchandising and Stores, Wayfair, joins John Williams to talk about the 1 year anniversary of their first brick and mortar store in Wilmette! Segment 2: Joe Cicero, Director of Marketing and Promotions for the McHenry Outdoor Theater, joins John to talk about the 74th season of the theater! […]
John Williams brings you another round of Speed Jokes. Keep sending yours to JohnWilliams@wgnradio.com.
Author and registered dietician nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner joins John Williams to talk about Memorial Day and the unofficial start of grilling season! Dawn offers some alternatives (or in addition to) to your typical grilling fare! And, as usual, Dawn answers all of your health and nutrition questions.
Local farmer John Andermann of the Will County Farm Bureau joins John Williams to talk about where he farms, how long he’s been farming, how the planting season is going this year, the costs of fertilizer and putting the crop into the ground, how he comes up with the money to do the work, the […]
It's time once again for our Best of the Midwest feature! Are you trying to come up with some vacation ideas that are only a quick getaway from the Chicago area? Well, John Williams has some great recommendations for your trip! Today, we head to the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan and visit with Brandy […]
Suzy Welch, best-selling author, tech entrepreneur, and award-winning professor at NYU Stern, joins John Williams to talk about her new book, “BECOMING YOU: The Proven Method for Crafting Your Authentic Life and Career.” Suzy talks about how AI is changing the world we live in, how she ended up writing her new book, why she’s […]
Wendy Reed, Partner at Just Rite IT, joins John Williams to talk about what Just Rite IT does, how they help customers with their technology needs, the most important need for businesses right now, the typical problems they solve, how they ease the day-to-day burden for their clients, and the ways they can help increase […]
Joan Oberndorf, Manager of the Andersonville Farmers Market, joins Lisa Dent to highlight the vendors that will be at this year’s farmers market. Joan chats about their new location on 1500 West Winona St and the fresh products you’ll be able to find.
Attorney Burt Odelson, legislative counsel for the Village of Dolton Board of Trustees, joins Lisa Dent to discuss Dolton’s plans to acquire Pope Leo XIV’s childhood home through eminent domain. The two discuss how the Pope’s home is already changing the neighborhood and its current value.
Dean Richards, entertainment reporter for WGN, joins Bob Sirott to provide details on the latest news in entertainment. Bob and Dean talk about a real ‘Cheers’ bar in Boston, half-price movie tickets every Wednesday at AMC theaters, Tom Hanks on Broadway, the latest ‘Cats’ review, and much more.
Stephanie Lulay, Executive Editor and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Bob Sirott to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. She provides details on: Northwest Side Getting Its 1st Trader Joe’s In Jefferson Park: The City Council approved a zoning change Wednesday which clears the way for the popular grocery store to replace a former CVS. […]
Lieutenant David Haynes, a retired Chicago police officer who worked on the North Side, chats with Bob Sirott about life since being retired and some new food places he has found down south that remind him of Chicago. Lt. Haynes also talks about his radio show in Tennessee and the food spots he is going […]
The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start off the podcast talking about the Department of Justice looking into the hiring practices of Mayor Brandon Johnson. What do the Rascals make of the DOJ probe? The Chicago City […]
Chicago Way w/John Kass (05/19/25): RealClear Politics' Tom Bevan is here to discuss James Comey selling seashells by the seashore and what could be considered one of the greatest scandals in presidential history, the cover-up of Joe Biden’s health problems. John Kass & Jeff Carlin also ask Tom about Rahm Emanuel facing off against JB Pritzker in […]