City Cast Chicago

Earlier this week, former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, once the most influential politician in the state, was found guilty of bribery, conspiracy, and other corruption charges following a four-month trial and two weeks of deliberation. We’ve got WCIU TV host Brandon Pope and Block Club Chicago’s Jamie Nesbit Golden reacting to this historic conviction, including the juror's split verdict. Plus, the city prepares to lose community clinics in Uptown and Englewood, Beyonce adds a third Chicago tour date, and we’re loving one North Lawndale neighbor’s ice cream dreams. 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 Feb. 14 episode: The Newberry - Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class TimeLine Theatre Company Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Introducing The #1 Cause of Breakups & The Spiritual Secret To Attracting Healthy Love | David Ghiyam from The School of Greatness.Follow the show: The School of GreatnessI'm going on tour! Come see The School of Greatness LIVE in person!Get my new book Make Money Easy here!In a paradigm-shifting conversation about love and relationships, spiritual wisdom teacher David Ghiyam reveals why our most painful relationships are actually divine assignments for our soul's growth. This episode offers groundbreaking wisdom for anyone who has ever felt stuck in toxic relationship patterns or questioned why they keep attracting the wrong partners, as David provides practical tools to shift from victim consciousness to spiritual mastery in love. Through vulnerable personal stories, including his own journey of maintaining a beautiful friendship with his ex-wife while co-parenting four children, David illuminates how our relationship patterns are not random but carefully orchestrated opportunities for spiritual evolution. He shares the transformational insight that instead of seeking "the one," we must focus on becoming "the one" by expanding our spiritual vessel to receive love. David Ghiyam’s website to learn more about him and his missionIn this episode you will learn:Why focusing on building your "spiritual vessel" is more important than searching for the perfect partnerHow our souls pre-program specific relationship challenges to help us grow and evolveThe counterintuitive reason why over-giving in early relationships often leads to their demiseWhy blessing your ex-partners instead of labeling them "toxic" is crucial for manifesting healthy loveThe profound connection between your belief in what you deserve and your capacity to receive loveFor more information go to https://www.lewishowes.com/1732For more Greatness text PODCAST to +1 (614) 350-3960More SOG episodes we think you’ll love:Gregg Braden – greatness.lnk.to/1726SCDr. Joe Dispenza – greatness.lnk.to/1413SCGabby Bernstein – greatness.lnk.to/1714SC Get more from Lewis! Pre-order my new book Make Money EasyGet The Greatness Mindset audiobook on SpotifyText Lewis AIYouTubeInstagramWebsiteTiktokFacebookXDISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.

Chicago Animal Care and Control is having its annual “Love is in the Air” adoption event which offers fee-waived adoptions. The municipal shelter cares for 400 to 500 animals daily and in 2024, they saw an increase in animal intake and euthanasia. Last year, host Jacoby Cochran talked to CACC public information officer Armando Tejeda, who told us how the largest municipal animal shelter in the Midwest cares for Chicago’s animals and how you can help.  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 Feb. 13 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class TimeLine Theatre Company Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

More and more restaurants and bars are going cashless, meaning you must have a card or a phone to pay your bill. But many of Chicago’s most beloved spots are not only bucking the trend, they are committed to staying cash-ONLY. City Cast Contributor Leigh Giangreco spoke with restaurant owners to learn more. Good News: Crying at the Shed Film Festival 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 Feb. 12 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class TimeLine Theatre Company Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Episode Description: Months after the city ended its contract with gun detection technology ShotSpotter, Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration is searching for its replacement. Host Jacoby Cochran and producer Michelle Navarro explain replacement requirements and technology the city is already testing out. Plus, we talk about the new neighborhood map reimagined by residents and what places we are looking to check out for Black Restaurant Week.  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 Feb. 11 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class TimeLine Theatre Company Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

When an individual has bad credit, it might be harder to rent an apartment, buy a car, or get a loan. But what happens when a city or state has a low credit rating? After one agency downgraded Chicago’s rating and as the governor prepares to make his budget address next week, host Jacoby Cochran talks with DePaul University professor Amanda Kass about how municipal credit ratings work, why Chicago is close to “junk” status, and what it says about the city’s financial health. 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 Feb. 10 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class TimeLine Theatre Company Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

On Thursday, the Justice Department announced it is suing the city and state alleging “sanctuary laws” are impeding ICE investigations. Host Jacoby Cochran sits down with WTTW’s Amanda Vinicky and Heather Cherone to discuss the details of the lawsuit. Plus, Mayor Johnson is heading to Congress, women’s soccer reaches an investigation settlement, and Black restaurant week begins this weekend. Good News: 7th Annual Cultural Jam, Bridgeport Records Detroit Techno, Val’s Halla Pop Up Record Store 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 Feb. 7 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class Klairmont Kollections Paramount Theatre – Use code CityCast for $5 off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

While gyms, yoga studios, and cycling classes might be packed at the beginning of the new year, by now it’s probably dropped off a little. Most of us can agree, It’s tough to work out and stay active, especially during the winter in Chicago. That’s why host Jacoby Cochran is talking with fitness director Seobia Rivers about her realistic guide to working out in the city.  Looking for even more fitness options? Check out this guide on our website. Good news: Chicago Botanic Garden Orchid Show 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 Feb. 6 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class Klairmont Kollections Paramount Theatre – Use code CityCast for $5 off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and whether you’re spending it on a date, with friends, or riding solo, we wanted to help out with some of the best places for a romantic dinner, themed cocktails, and mouthwatering desserts. Host Jacoby Cochran sits down with The Infatuation’s Adrian Kane and John Ringor who bring their favorite picks.  Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter.  Good news: Lunar New Year Chinatown Parade & Argyle Lunar New Year Celebration Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 5 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class Klairmont Kollections Paramount Theatre – Use code CityCast for $5 off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Big concentrations of mergansers, a type of duck, were found dead along Chicago beaches this weekend. Advocates suspect it’s bird flu. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea discuss what this means for the city’s birds and the price of eggs. Plus, Mayor Brandon Johnson is outlining his priorities for 2025.  The first nine people who become members today will receive a tote bag! Good news: “From Chicago, With Love” at Lakeshore Design Lab 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 Feb. 4 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class Klairmont Kollections Paramount Theatre – Use code CityCast for $5 off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Property tax bills are headed to mailboxes in Cook County. The 2024 first installment taxes are due March 4. That makes it a good time to revisit our conversation from the fall with the Tribune’s A.D. Quig and the Illinois Answers Project Alex Nitkin about property tax basics and why Chicago is always complaining about them. 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 Feb. 3 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class Klairmont Kollections Paramount Theatre – Use code CityCast for $5 off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago communities are grappling with the increased Immigration and Customs Enforcement presence. Chalkbeat Chicago’s Reema Amin and Chicago Tribune’s Laura Rodriguez Presa explain how ICE makes arrests and how schools are responding. Plus, they talk about how Chicago students’ test scores compare nationally and the reopening of Sikia, Englewoods’s culinary student–led restaurant, after five years.  Apply to be Hey Chicago’s newsletter editor. We’re doing a 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 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 Jan. 31 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class Klairmont Kollections Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Black History Month, Valentine’s Day, Theatre Week — There’s still plenty to do in Chicago during the shortest month of the year. Host Jacoby Cochran, executive producer Simone Alicea, and producer Michelle Navarro are here with your best tips for February including best date spots and where to donate or volunteer around the city. 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.  For even more tips on how to make the most of January in Chicago, check out Hey Chicago’s take on what to do this month.  City Cast Chicago’s guide to February is made possible by our awesome sponsors, The Newberry (use code CITYCAST for 10% of your class) and Klairmont Kollections. City Cast Chicago is also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.  Reach us at chicago@citycast.fm.

Sure, Chicago has a lot of great bars. But every Chicagoan knows that the best parties happen in a basement, especially if you have a home bar like Theresa “Mama T” Ferrell. Mama T’s impressive home cocktail skills have been making the rounds on TikTok thanks to her son, City Cast Chicago host Jacoby Cochran. That’s why we’re getting Mama T’s best basement cocktail tips. We’re doing a 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 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 Jan. 29 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class Klairmont Kollections Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Top federal officials were out in Chicago this weekend as agents began arresting immigrants, making good on the Trump administration’s promise of a crackdown. The operations came after a chaotic week of fear following the inauguration and days after federal agents showed up at an elementary school in Back of the Yards, sparking a lot of confusion. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran breakdown what happened at Hamline Elementary. Plus, is the third time the charm for NASCAR this summer?  Tell us what you LOVE about Chicago. We’re doing a 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 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 Jan. 28 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class Klairmont Kollections Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Dolton residents will be voting for mayor in just four weeks, and this small south suburban election might just be the wildest political story in Illinois right now. Current Mayor Tiffany Henyard — who’s also the Thornton Township supervisor — has been accused of mismanaging public funds (from a taxpayer funded trip to Las Vegas to a line item for the mayor’s stylist) and retaliating against political opponents. The acrimony has prompted multiple investigations, a failed recall effort, and all but halted progress in village meetings. NBC Chicago’s Regina Waldroup explains how these issues go beyond political chaos and actually affect the people of Dolton. Good News: Architecture and Design Film Festival We’re doing a 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 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 Jan. 27 episode: Babbel — Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST The Newberry — Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class Klairmont Kollections Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

As threats of mass deportations in Chicago continue, we check in with WBEZ’s Adriana Cardona-Maguigad on how city officials, advocacy groups, and community members are preparing for the worst. Block Club Chicago’s Patrick Filbin also joins us to discuss a proposed housing development in Lincoln Park, a punk rock record label pushing for landmark status, and a 10-foot igloo! Good News: Jaja’s African Hair Braiding We’re doing a 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 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 Jan. 23 episode: Babbel – Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

We’ve heard from listeners and newsletter readers that some of you have New Year's resolutions to read more in 2025 or add more books about Chicago to your home libraries. So we decided to curate our very own Chicago reading list with Chicago writer, scholar, and cultural organizer Eve Ewing. We’re doing a 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 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 Jan. 23 episode: Babbel — Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago is known for its robust food and restaurant scene, but what should we expect this year? Chicago Tribune food critic Louisa Chu tells host Jacoby Cochran which restaurant industry trends and stories she’s looking out for.  Tell us what you LOVE about Chicago. 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 Jan. 22 episode: Babbel – Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Reports emerged over the weekend that the Trump administration’s plan to carry out the largest deportation operation in U.S. history could begin as soon as Tuesday in Chicago. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea talk about how the news is playing out in the city. Plus, we’re unpacking the hemp debate in Illinois and taking a cold weather quiz! Know Your Rights (Immigration Enforcement) The 2025 Chicago International Puppet Festival Tell us what you love about Chicago 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 Jan. 21 episode: Babbel — Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE