If you’re new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Chicago community. October starts tomorrow and Chicago is leaning into spooky season. Whether you like Halloween or not, the sun is setting earlier, which is scary enough. Luckily, we’re talking about everything to do, from haunted houses and parades to learning about Chicago’s architecture and Indigenous history. Plus, we’ve got tips for early voting, navigating Uni...
Sep 30, 2024•34 min•Transcript available on Metacast Mayor Brandon Johnson and Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez have been in a public power struggle this week, with Johnson reportedly asking for Martinez’s resignation. Sun-Times education reporter Nader Issa and WBEZ City Hall reporter Mariah Woelfel dig into how the conflict is rippling into city budget talks and upcoming school board elections. Plus, Chicago NBA legend Derrick Rose is retiring, entertainment legend Bozo the Clown is returning, and we’ve got more spots to eat alone like ...
Sep 27, 2024•33 min•Transcript available on Metacast Now that it’s officially fall, the City Cast team is going road tripping! Last year, host Jacoby Cochran, executive producer Simone Alicea, newsletter editor Sidney Madden, and marketing coordinator Jermaine Thomas each picked a direction and gave us their best road trip ideas. Whether you’re in it for the leaf peeping, tasty treats, a little fright, or a cozy vibe, we’ve got getaways for you! Good News: Birds, Bikes, and Beats at Big Marsh Park Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make s...
Sep 26, 2024•28 min•Transcript available on Metacast Whether it's because of the rise in remote work and solo traveling or simply a desire to try new things alone, cities like Chicago are seeing more solo diners. Freelance food writer Samantha Nelson tells host Jacoby Cochran her favorite spots and what makes Chicago a great place to dine by yourself. Restaurants mentioned: Robust Coffee Lounge in Woodlawn Arami in West Town Lior’s Cafe in Roseland Hopleaf in Andersonville Quartino in River North Shake A Leg in Austin Irazu in Wicker Park Warlord ...
Sep 25, 2024•26 min•Transcript available on Metacast This weekend Mayor Brandon Johnson made good on a campaign promise when ShotSpotter was decommissioned. He has also reportedly asked CPS CEO Pedro Martinez to resign. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran are discussing these big moves. Plus, we are looking at the White Sox’s historically bad season and our last festival update of the season. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also...
Sep 24, 2024•31 min•Transcript available on Metacast Chicago Animal Care and Control cares for 400 to 500 animals daily. They also have seen increases in animal intake and euthanasia this year. Host Jacoby Cochran talks to CACC’s public information officer Armando Tejeda who tells us how the largest municipal animal shelter in the Midwest cares for Chicago’s animals and how you can help. Good news: The Moth StorySLAM Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can ...
Sep 23, 2024•29 min•Transcript available on Metacast Twenty percent of Chicagoans identify as Mexican, according to a new UIC Great Cities institute report. We break down their findings with WBEZ’s Araceli Gomez Aldana and WTTW’s Joanna Hernandez. Plus, we are discussing National Voter Registration Day, the forthcoming Little Village Starbucks, and Vocalo’s Summer Finale concert at Millennium Park Good News: World Dumpling Fest, Pilsen Community Books, Real Ones Show Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chic...
Sep 20, 2024•31 min•Transcript available on Metacast Illinois is hosting a state flag design contest. That’s because the Illinois flag is forgettable at best, according to “Good Flag, Bad Flag” author Ted Kaye. Last year, he told host Jacoby Cochran what would make our state flag better. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 If you enjoyed today's interview with Revolution Brewing's Director of Communicat...
Sep 19, 2024•23 min•Transcript available on Metacast The “Starbucks effect” is when property and home values rise after the second-largest restaurant chain in the world opens a new location. As Little Village prepares for a new Starbucks by the end of the week, residents and community activists are voicing their concerns. Chicago Tribune reporter Laura Rodriguez Presa tells host Jacoby Cochran how it could impact the city’s largest and most recognizable Mexican immigrant community. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up f...
Sep 18, 2024•31 min•Transcript available on Metacast On Thursday, the city will release more information about efforts to combine Chicago’s existing homeless shelter system with the system for new arrivals. The public’s first look at the initial details of the plan comes after the city closed a Gold Coast homeless shelter used during the Democratic National Convention and announced the upcoming closure of three migrant shelters. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea break down what we know so far. Plus, we’ve got tips for enjoyi...
Sep 17, 2024•31 min•Transcript available on Metacast Chicago’s Greyhound bus terminal could close as early as this week, despite transit advocates pushing the city to save the terminal before its lease ends in October. Nearly 500,000 riders rely on the terminal each year. Block Club Chicago reporter Quinn Myers explains how we got here and why Chicago could become the biggest city in the Northern Hemisphere without an intercity bus terminal. Good News: What’s Funny Comedy Festival Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up fo...
Sep 16, 2024•23 min•Transcript available on Metacast In August, Mayor Brandon Johnson announced a 2025 budget gap of $985 million dollars. He said Chicago would have to make sacrifices and find creative solutions. He left no options off the table including property tax hikes. This week the Johnson administration implemented a hiring freeze. WTTW’s Heather Cherone and Sun-Times’ Mariah Rush help us understand why the budget hole is so large and what potential solutions are available. Plus, we are discussing an environmental ruling against Trump Tow...
Sep 13, 2024•47 min•Transcript available on Metacast All summer long we have been telling you to buy local: in our walking guides, at farmers markets, and street festivals. But aren’t some things — like sex toys — more comfortable to buy online? Well, executive producer Simone Alicea talks to Early to Bed owner Searah Deysach about why it still might be better to shop local in this case, especially as September is Sexual Health Awareness Month. As you might have already guessed, we’re talking about sex. So, this interview touches on some explicit ...
Sep 12, 2024•29 min•Transcript available on Metacast We’ve talked wine, we’ve talked beer — now it’s time to talk about the best cocktails in Chicago. From unique artisanal offerings to happy hours to drinks that won’t break the bank, Infatuation Chicago’s John Ringor is talking with Jacoby Cochran about where to find the best cocktails. Good News: Universal Soul Circus Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-02...
Sep 11, 2024•24 min•Transcript available on Metacast Paul La Schiazza, the former head of AT&T Illinois, is expected to be in court this morning for the start of his long awaited criminal trial. La Schiazza is charged with bribing ex-House Speaker Michael Madigan for favorable legislation. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran explain what this means for Madigan’s upcoming trial. Plus, we are discussing the final round of our Chicago icon bracket and running down this weekend’s festival lineup. Good News: Chicago Humanities Fest...
Sep 10, 2024•31 min•Transcript available on Metacast On paper, Chicago has strong protections for renters if landlords fail to maintain proper living conditions. Tenants can withhold rent, report problems to the city, or sue their landlords. But an Injustice Watch investigation shows in practice, tenants face an uphill battle even when buildings have repeated documented violations. Senior reporters Alejandra Cancino and Maya Dukmasova explain how the legal system is set up to protect landlords. Good News: Chicago Underground Film Festival Want som...
Sep 09, 2024•34 min•Transcript available on Metacast Earlier this week, four people were gunned down while sleeping on a Blue Line train en route to Forest Park. While the alleged gunman was apprehended soon after, investigators are still working to piece together the timeline. Block Club Chicago’s Manny Ramos and Ariel Parrella are here to explain the latest details. Plus, we discuss misinformation about new arrivals living in Washington Park, how North Side communities are honoring a legendary ice cream vendor, and Block Club’s Block Party. Want...
Sep 06, 2024•32 min•Transcript available on Metacast Tourism season is still in full swing, and we are curious why these popular Chicago attractions got poor reviews. Host Jacoby Cochran plays with Dairo Durham and Sara Faddah from 77 Flavors of Chicago to see who can guess the Chicago spot based on its one-star ratings. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Sep. 5 ep...
Sep 05, 2024•23 min•Transcript available on Metacast September just started, and pumpkin spice is already making a comeback. Last fall, we learned that Illinois is the country’s largest producer of pumpkins and home to the canned pumpkin brand that made pumpkin pie a household staple. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea reviewed some pumpkin spice offerings and learned some pumpkin facts. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also tex...
Sep 04, 2024•31 min•Transcript available on Metacast If you’re new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Chicago community. Whether you’re trying to make the most of the last few weeks of summer or you’re ready for cozy fall vibes, we got you. From leaf-peeping road trips to best new restaurants to tailgating tips, here’s what you need to know to enjoy September. For even more tips on how to make the most of September in Chicago, check out Hey Chicago’s take on what to ...
Sep 03, 2024•34 min•Transcript available on Metacast Chicago Public Schools students returned to the classroom this week, and it was once again a frustrating start to the year for thousands without reliable bus service. While CPS reports a 25% increase in bus drivers over last year, the number of students with disabilities lacking adequate transportation has doubled. Chalkbeat Chicago’s Samantha Smylie and WBEZ editor Natalie Moore join us to break down the latest. Plus, we hear their thoughts on Chicago’s forthcoming school board election, a popu...
Aug 30, 2024•32 min•Transcript available on Metacast Chicago has no shortage of icons and symbols — from winning sports teams to inventive architecture to whole music genres. But which is the ultimate icon that represents the city to outsiders and Chicagoans? We created a tournament bracket and are narrowing it down to just one symbol to top them all. Think we got it wrong? Weigh in on the matchups, and let us know what we missed. Good news: Chicago Sky vs Indiana Fever Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey C...
Aug 29, 2024•34 min•Transcript available on Metacast In the lead-up to last week’s Democratic National Convention, Chicagoans were told time and time again that neighborhood restaurants would see a boost during the week. City Cast contributor Leigh Giangreco tells host Jacoby Cochran if the convention impacted local restaurants as promised. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 If you enjoyed today's inte...
Aug 28, 2024•29 min•Transcript available on Metacast Chicago Public Schools students are back in the classroom this week, and we're looking at some of the biggest education stories going into the school year. That includes a looming budget deficit, ongoing negotiations with the Chicago teachers’ union, and the first-ever school board election. Plus, executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran are talking about the hottest day of the summer and Labor Day weekend festivals to check out. Good News: National Museum of Mexican Art’s Viva L...
Aug 27, 2024•27 min•Transcript available on Metacast We are more than halfway through Chicago’s vibrant farmers market season, but there's still time to hit the markets before they close in the fall. That makes it the perfect time to revisit our guide from the spring when executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran broke down what’s in season, their favorite markets in the city, the three biggest farmers market mistakes, and how to avoid them! Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newslet...
Aug 26, 2024•26 min•Transcript available on Metacast Back in July, the city began clearing out one of the largest homeless tent encampments just two miles from the United Center. Mayor Johnson and his administration say that individuals were offered temporary residency at a city shelter and denied claims they were “hiding the homeless” ahead of this week’s DNC. Sun Times Reporter Elvia Malagón and Audience Engagement Specialist Ellery Jones are here to discuss the latest developments as the city has since further restricted access to the former en...
Aug 23, 2024•34 min•Transcript available on Metacast We’ve talked about the traffic, we’ve talked about the hype, and we’ve talked about the after-parties. But another major component of the Democratic National Convention are the protests. Earlier this week producer Michelle Navarro headed to Union Park where the Coalition to March on the DNC 2024 was planning the largest protest gathering in the city. Ahead of the coalition’s second protest and Vice President Kamala Harris’ convention closing speech tonight, we’re hearing from protesters on why t...
Aug 22, 2024•25 min•Transcript available on Metacast Between long speeches at the Democratic National Convention, late night show tapings, and tons of after-parties, you may find yourself out after midnight on a school night this week. So the City Cast Chicago team has put together a list of our favorite late-night spots to grab some food, drinks, and maybe a song. Alynia Zushi & Karaoke Lounge in Bridgeport, Baba’s (Ashburn, Greater Grand Crossing, Gresham) Bar Siena in West Loop Emporium (Logan Square, Westown, West Loop) Galloping Ghost Arcade ...
Aug 21, 2024•24 min•Transcript available on Metacast The Democratic National Convention is officially underway in Chicago, and it’s all anyone can talk about. That’s why we recorded our episode from McCormick Place to check the vibes and see what this event is actually all about. Plus, to celebrate The Onion’s return to print, we’re playing a game: Real headline or Onion headline? Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at:...
Aug 20, 2024•26 min•Transcript available on Metacast The Democratic National Convention starts today. Contributor Leigh Giangreco tells host Jacoby Cochran about road closures, transit changes, security protocols, and everything else Chicagoans should expect this week. Good News: Full Moon Jam at Foster Beach, She Safe We Safe in Chatham, and Crafter’s Circle in Portage Park Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 7...
Aug 19, 2024•28 min•Transcript available on Metacast 
