City Cast Chicago

City Cast

Chicago’s daily news podcast, fresh every weekday morning. Host Jacoby Cochran brings you timely conversations with news and culture makers; activists and artists; bus drivers and students; those who love and hate this place. City Cast Chicago is a smart and delightful new way to connect with the city we share. Learn more and subscribe to our newsletter at chicago.citycast.fm.

Named Best Podcast by Chicago Reader 2022

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1,360 episodes
Updated Friday

Episodes1360

Newest first

Friday · 36 min
New Mayoral Candidates, More Grocery Closures, and Chicago’s Rainy Summer
On Tuesday, candidates hoping to get on February’s ballot were able to start gathering nominating petitions. That includes folks who want to run for police district council, city council, city clerk, city treasurer, and of course, mayor. The Chicago Tribune’s Jake Sheridan and freelance journalist Corli Jay discuss the latest. Plus, how Chicago’s rainy summer is impacting residents, and Mayor Brandon Johnson responds to shuttered Save-A-Lot locations on the South and West Sides. Good News: North Lawndale Arts Fest, Morgan Park Roots Fest 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 31 episode: Broadway In Chicago - The Notebook Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Thursday · 36 min
Your Guide to August 2026 in Chicago
August in Chicago is packed with reasons to visit all corners of the city, including the Bud Billiken Parade, Northalsted Market Days, the Crosstown Classic, and more. Here’s your guide to getting the most out of the month. 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 30 episode: Broadway In Chicago - The Notebook Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Wednesday · 30 min
CPS Budget Woes, Chi's Best Chicken Wings, and the Esteem Awards
The Board of Education is scheduled to vote tomorrow on a Chicago Public Schools budget plan that would lay off 760 teachers and 801 teacher aides, in addition to the 162 central office and citywide staff that have already been laid off. Contributors Anna DeShawn and Brandon Pope join us to talk about why the district is proposing this, plus the 19th annual Esteem Awards, and how to celebrate National Chicken Wing Day in the Windy City. Good News: Boxville Battle of the Wings 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 29 episode: Broadway In Chicago - The Notebook Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Tuesday · 33 min
Chicago Renter Protections, Edgewater Restricts E-Scooters, and Lollapalooza Weekend
Right now, Chicago’s City Council is weighing exactly how to update the city’s 40-year-old Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance. There are two competing visions: one from the mayor and the other from a bloc of alderpeople. Host Jacoby Cochran and creative producer Michelle Navarro are discussing the key differences between the two proposals. Plus, e-scooters are being restricted in Edgewater, and Lollapalooza weekend is back in Chicago. Good News: String Fellow Quartet , Marvin Gaye Tribute , Slide 2 The Stu 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 Tuesday, July 28th episode: Broadway In Chicago - The Notebook Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Monday · 35 min
Why Chicagoans Feel Like Crime Is Up. Plus, Archdiocese Sues Accusers
A new study from NORC at the University of Chicago indicates many Chicagoans feel like violent crime rates are rising even though the data doesn't support it. We dig into why that is with contributors Adora Namigadde and Brandon Pope. Plus, we break down a countersuit from the Archdiocese of Chicago, and take the City Cast landmarks quiz. Good News: Sky vs. Sun, Sky vs. Aces 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 Monday, July episode: Broadway In Chicago - The Notebook Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
July 24 · 36 min
Can Chicago Save Save-A-Lot Stores? Plus, Safety Net Hospitals Are Struggling
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
July 23 · 36 min
How To Check For Chicagoland Ticks. Plus, Amusement Parks, and Reboots We Want
Now that the smoke has largely cleared out, it is the perfect time to get outdoors and into nature. Whether you’re planning a quick hike or weekend camping trip, the Illinois Department of Public Health wants you to protect yourself against ticks and mosquitoes. Contributors Al Scorch and PJ Walker help us run through IDPH’s guidelines. Plus, we’re asking our guests what makes Chicago’s live audiences so special, whether amusement and water parks still go-to summer spots, and what reboots would they welcome with open arms? Good News: The Trashy Summer Market 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 23 episode: Visit Bloomington Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
July 22 · 30 min
Are Parking Meters Connected to ICE? Plus, Chicago Therapy Collective and Chicago’s Busiest Weekend
A plan to sell Chicago’s 36,000 parking meters remains stalled in the City Council. A group of alders is critical of the potential buyer's financial connections to ongoing ICE operations. Contributors Leigh Giangreco and Anna DeShawn are here with the latest. Plus, the Chicago Therapy Collective recently became the largest LGBTQ+ mental health provider in the state, and this weekend’s calendar is packed with great events. Good News: Butterfly Sanctuary tour 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 22 episode: Visit Bloomington Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
July 21 · 38 min
Chicago's New Smoke Season, School Board Candidates Dropped, and the Pokémon Capital
Should Chicagoans be preparing to mitigate wildfire smoke every summer? How are fundraising efforts and ballot challenges shaping the race for school board? Is Chicago the Pokémon capital of North America? Executive producer Simone Aliecea and host Jacoby Cochran are answering these questions and more. Plus, how to make your own air purifier. Good News: Roseland Peoples Market 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 21 episode: Visit Bloomington Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
July 20 · 36 min
Why is The 78 Getting $425M? Plus, Chicago Summer Music Magic
Last week, alderpeople approved a $425 million infrastructure plan at ‘The 78’ in the South Loop, anchored by the forthcoming Chicago Fire stadium. Contributor Leigh Giangreco is here with details, including why few alders voted against it. Plus, Al Scorch walks us through a magical week of Chicago summer music, and we’ve got thoughts on delivery during extreme weather. 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. Good News: Pullman Railroad Days 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 20 episode: Visit Bloomington Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
July 17 · 39 min
Did Mayor's ICE Order Actually Do Anything? Plus, 1,000 Teens Downtown
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
July 16 · 35 min
Harold’s Chicken Battle, Ford City Suitors, and Next Great Food Fest
In January, longtime Harold’s Chicken Shack CEO Kristen Pierce-Sherrod passed away. Now, a legal battle between her five children and her widower will determine who owns the multimillion-dollar brand going forward. We dive into the drama with contributors PJ Walker and Yareni Murillo. Plus, we’ve got ideas for what should replace Ford City Mall and which iconic Chicago foods deserve their very own food festival. Good News: Rogers Park Taco Crawl 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 16 episode: Visit Bloomington Destination Madison Newberry Library Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
July 15 · 37 min
Influential Priest Accused of Abuse, Beware Raw Lettuce, and All-Star Weekend
The Rev. Michael Pfleger, the St. Sabina parish leader for 45 years, has been removed from his position as the Archdiocese of Chicago investigates another accusation of sexual assault against him. We break down the latest reporting with contributors Brandon Pope and Anna DeShawn. Plus, WNBA All-Star Weekend returns to Chicago next week, and we’ve got cyclosporiasis updates. 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 15 episode: Visit Bloomington Destination Madison Newberry Library Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
July 14 · 38 min
Tips For Second Heat Wave. Also, Can the Onion Make Infowars Funny?
Another heat wave is hitting Chicago. Here's what to expect. Also on today's podcast, we talk to Onion executive editor Jordan LaFlure about the Chicago satire publication's new parody of Infowars. For years, Infowars spread all kinds of misinformation, most notably about the Sandy Hook School shooting that killed 20 children and six adults. Jones then lost a defamation suit, which led to his bankruptcy and, eventually, bidding on Infowars — which The Onion won. 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 Tuesday, July 14 episode: Visit Bloomington Destination Madison Newberry Library Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
July 13 · 36 min
City’s Street Vendor Crackdown, Mayoral Quiz, and Belugas at Shedd
Chicago is seeing a rise in enforcement against immigrant street vendors. Over the last few months the Street Vendors Association of Chicago has been sounding the alarm on a rise in citations, arrests, and number of carts that have been confiscated by Chicago police officers and city workers. We break down the latest with contributors Leigh Giangreco and Jill Hopkins. Plus, the Shedd Aquarium is welcoming even more beluga whales to the lakefront, and we’ve got a fun way to keep track of everyone running for mayor. Good News: Fire vs. Vancouver | Sky vs. Seattle Storm 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 13 episode: Visit Bloomington Destination Madison Newberry Library Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
July 10 · 37 min
Is Chicago Still Broke? Plus, ICE Arrests Increasing
What have we learned in the last week about the city’s financial position, and what does that mean for the growing field of mayoral candidates? Alex Nitkin with the Illinois Answers Project is here with the past, present, and future of Chicago’s fiscal health. Plus, contributor Yareni Murillo is sounding the alarm about an increase in ICE arrests in Chicago. And what happened to the city’s tree-planting efforts? 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 10 episode: Visit Bloomington Chicago Public Library Lincoln Park Zoo DCASE Newberry Library Randolph Street Market Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
July 9 · 36 min
Mayor’s Transit and Public Health Picks. Plus, ‘Love Island’ Mania and Chicago’s Next Hit Show
Today we’re talking about some new appointments coming out of the Johnson administration, including a new Public Health Commissioner and transit board members. We break down the nominations with executive producer Simone Alicea and contributor Yareni Murillo. Plus, where to watch “Love Island” in Chicago and our pitches for the next big Chicago-based TV series. 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 9 episode: Visit Bloomington Chicago Public Library Lincoln Park Zoo DCASE Newberry Library Randolph Street Market Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
July 8 · 34 min
Is Chuy Garcia Controlling Congressional Race? Plus, a Visit to Feld
U.S. Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia (4th) has been accused of thumbing the political scales in favor of his chosen successor. In November, Garcia dropped out of the race just before the candidacy submission deadline, leaving his chief of staff, Patty Garcia, as the only Democratic candidate on the ballot. Now, independents in the race say the elder statesman is creating even more campaign hurdles. We discuss the details with contributors Leigh Giangreco and Anna Deshawn. Plus, the Obama Presidential Center celebrates queer history all year long, and host Jacoby Cochran reviews Chicago’s newest Michelin-starred restaurant, Feld. 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 Wednesday, July 8 episode: Visit Bloomington Chicago Public Library Lincoln Park Zoo DCASE Newberry Library Randolph Street Market Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
July 7 · 42 min
Why Massage Parlors Are Getting Raided in the 12th Ward
Two illicit massage parlors on Archer Avenue were raided within weeks of each other — including one next door to 12th Ward Ald. Julia Ramirez’s office. Creative producer Michelle Navarro lives in the ward and has noticed the proliferation of sketchy-looking establishments in her neighborhood. She and host Jacoby Cochran ask Ramirez what’s happening at these “spas,” why there are so many in the area, and who’s responsible for regulating them. Plus, they discuss how the Moving Archer Forward project fits into all of this. Good news: Chicago Latin Jazz Fest 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 7 episode: Visit Bloomington Chicago Public Library Lincoln Park Zoo DCASE Newberry Library Randolph Street Market Water Lantern Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
July 6 · 33 min
Who Will Replace Retiring Police Chief? Plus, Chicago's New Gayborhood?
The Chicago Police Department will be without a permanent police superintendent starting July 15, as current superintendent Larry Snelling announced his retirement late last week. We break down Snelling’s tenure and Mayor Brandon Johnson’s potential timeline with Araceli Gomez-Aldana and Leigh Giangreco. Plus, the number of same-sex couples on the Far Southeast Side is growing, and we’ve got even more good news for you. Good News: Karaoke Storytellers, Argyle Night Market 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 Monday, July 6th episode: Visit Bloomington Chicago Public Library Lincoln Park Zoo DCASE Newberry Library Randolph Street Market Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

City Cast Chicago

New Mayoral Candidates, More Grocery Closures, and Chicago’s Rainy Summer

Your Guide to August 2026 in Chicago

CPS Budget Woes, Chi's Best Chicken Wings, and the Esteem Awards

Chicago Renter Protections, Edgewater Restricts E-Scooters, and Lollapalooza Weekend

Why Chicagoans Feel Like Crime Is Up. Plus, Archdiocese Sues Accusers

Can Chicago Save Save-A-Lot Stores? Plus, Safety Net Hospitals Are Struggling

How To Check For Chicagoland Ticks. Plus, Amusement Parks, and Reboots We Want

Are Parking Meters Connected to ICE? Plus, Chicago Therapy Collective and Chicago’s Busiest Weekend

Chicago's New Smoke Season, School Board Candidates Dropped, and the Pokémon Capital

Why is The 78 Getting $425M? Plus, Chicago Summer Music Magic

Did Mayor's ICE Order Actually Do Anything? Plus, 1,000 Teens Downtown

Harold’s Chicken Battle, Ford City Suitors, and Next Great Food Fest

Influential Priest Accused of Abuse, Beware Raw Lettuce, and All-Star Weekend

Tips For Second Heat Wave. Also, Can the Onion Make Infowars Funny?

City’s Street Vendor Crackdown, Mayoral Quiz, and Belugas at Shedd

Is Chicago Still Broke? Plus, ICE Arrests Increasing

Mayor’s Transit and Public Health Picks. Plus, ‘Love Island’ Mania and Chicago’s Next Hit Show

Is Chuy Garcia Controlling Congressional Race? Plus, a Visit to Feld

Why Massage Parlors Are Getting Raided in the 12th Ward

Who Will Replace Retiring Police Chief? Plus, Chicago's New Gayborhood?