City Cast Chicago
1,306 episodes — Page 1 of 27
Churches Build Housing, Maxwell Street’s Loss, and It’s Patio Season!
The DNC in Chicago ... Again?! Plus, Best Late-Night Bites
Are Chicago’s Scooters Safe? Plus, How Bad Will Mosquito Season Be?
A Rare, All Good News Episode
Why Is Mayor Johnson In Springfield? Plus, Chicago's First Baby Eagles in a Century
What Chicago Kids Want Us to Know
Will Chicago Hospitals Resume Trans Youth Healthcare? Plus, What is the RIFL Act?
Immigrant Families Facing Evictions. Plus, CPS Manages May Day
Your Guide to May 2026 in Chicago
Why Are Thousands of Property Tax Bills Late ... Again? Are Illinois Farmers Having Buyer’s Remorse?
Warlord Restaurant Plummeting, the DMV's AI Battle, and Dream Chicago Biopics
Peacebook Executive Order, New Lesbian-Owned Bar, and Does Chicago Need Film Critics?
Are Chicago’s Bridges OK? Plus, Red Line Extension, and Long Lines for… Bagels?
FEMA Aid Delays, Ford City’s Limbo, and Time Travel Chicago
How Close Are Bears to New Stadium? Plus, Bulls Clean House
CTA Drops Unarmed Security Guards. Plus, Chi’s Booming Film Industry
Why Is the Cinco De Mayo Parade Canceled? Plus, What’s Next For Aloha Motel?
Chicago Floods Worsening, May Day Plan, and National Library Week
O'Hare Cuts Flights, Airline Super Merger, and Nightmare Chicago Blunt Rotation
Tipped Wage Veto, New Zoning Chair, and Back of the Yards Coffeehouse
Why Are CPS and the Archdiocese Beefing? Plus, Ford City Mall Ordered to Close
Extremism in CPD, Sky’s Quick Turn Around, and ‘Safronia’ at Lyric Opera
Will CPS Close on May Day? Plus, Silver Room Block Party Returns
West Ridge YMCA For Sale, Indie Concerts Archive, and Chicago’s Worst Trades
South Side Birthing Center, 75th Street Welcomes Visitors, and Chicago’s ‘81 Club’
Broadview Protesters Face Trial, Farmers Market Prices Rise, and Where to Karaoke in Chicago
Why Can’t the Sky Keep Stars? Plus, The Hideout’s New Ownership
What to Do on Route 66 in Chicago
Mayor Johnson vs CHA Board, Buses to O’Hare, and Hawks Miss Playoffs… Again
'Your City Could Be Better': Denver’s Bet on a Women’s Soccer Stadium — Presented By City Cast Chicago
What Went Down At The Jeffs? Plus, Was Midway Blitz Martial Law?
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
Accessing Immigration Courts, Regulating Prediction Markets, and Ranking Chicago Burgers
Why are immigration court watchers in Chicago struggling to observe virtual hearings? Will Illinois regulate rapidly growing prediction markets? And what are the best burgers in the city? Executive producer Simone Alicea, contributor Leigh Giangreco, and host Jacoby Cochran dive into these stories. 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 2 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
Your Guide to April 2026 in Chicago
April showers are here, but luckily we’ve got your guide to what’s happening in Chicago this month — rain or shine. Host Jacoby Cochran is with executive producer Simone Alicea and City Cast Chicago contributor Brandon Pope have events to look forward to, tips for April, and news stories to watch. 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 1 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
Rental Inspections, Illini Final Four, and You’re Tired of Robots
Chicago has a new working group looking into proactive rental inspections and creating a registry of apartment owners. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea explain how we got here and how the moves could help renters. Plus, the Fighting Illini are in the Final Four, and y’all have thoughts on AI and robots. 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 March 31 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
CPS Finally Has a Permanent Leader. Plus, Broadview Calls to Close ICE Facility
The Chicago school board seems to have its pick for permanent CPS CEO, finally… and it’s interim CEO Macquline King. Ahead of the board’s meeting this morning, host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea take us through how we got here. Plus, the mayor of Broadview is calling on the feds to close the ICE facility there and reimburse the village for costs incurred during Operation Midway Blitz. We’re also discussing the rise of Nashville hot chicken in Chicago. 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 March 30 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
'Your City Could Be Better': How Austin is Succeeding at Affordable Housing — Presented By City Cast Chicago
More affordable housing is needed in places like Chicago. Some cities, however, are doing better than others at meeting this need. Austin, Texas, for example, is building more affordable housing than any other American city right now — 50% more, by some measures, than the second most successful city. However, this fast-growing city is also seeing a shortage in housing that middle- and lower-income residents can afford. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Austin podcast host Nikki DaVaughn about this paradox, the city’s affordable housing successes, and where Austin’s still falling short. Plus, how far is too far to walk to a neighbor’s house? Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
Mayor Walks Back ICE Order. Plus, West Side Hospital Closing
The Chicago Police Department has been under a federal consent decree, required to “change the way it trains, supervises and disciplines officers,” for seven years. Since it was introduced, CPD has reached full compliance with just 22% of mandates and has yet to implement a new system that tracks misconduct allegations. We are joined by WTTW’s Heather Cherone and Block Club Chicago’s Manny Ramos. Plus, West Suburban Hospital is temporarily closing its doors today, Lincoln Park has a new baby rhino, and Happy Birthday, Mama T! 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 March 27 episode: The Other Art Fair Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
AI School Coming to Chicago and Delivery Robots Are Crashing Out
Alpha Academy, a private school that operates teacherless classrooms with AI-developed lesson plans and curricula, is coming to Chicago next fall. And we have questions and thoughts. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea break down the latest details. Plus, what’s going on with the delivery robots crashing into bus shelters, and is there anything we’d rather talk about than all things AI? 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 March 26 episode: The Other Art Fair Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
What’s ICE Actually Doing at O’Hare? Plus, Council Stalemate and Rat Quiz
What is ICE actually doing at the airport? According to some reports, scrolling their phones and chatting with currently unpaid TSA agents. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea are talking about what this means for travelers and how to help TSA agents currently working unpaid due to the partial government shutdown. They also discuss the stalemate in City Council’s zoning committee, and Simone gives Jacoby a rat quiz.Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter.Follow us @citycastchicagoYou can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246Learn more about the sponsors of this March 25th episode:Access Contemporary MusicThe Other Art FairBecome a member of City Cast Chicago.Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Big Joliet Data Center, What to See at C2E2, and Your Thoughts on Portillo’s
Joliet has approved a 795-acre data center project even as state lawmakers consider stricter regulations. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea discuss Illinois’ great data center debate. They’ve also got tips for C2E2 this weekend, and you’ve got thoughts on Portillo’s, weather prep, and loose eggs. 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 March 24th episode: Access Contemporary Music The Other Art Fair Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
The Pritzker Machine, O’Hare Madness, and Loose Eggs
Even without facing a primary opponent, Gov. JB Pritzker seems to be coming out on top in Illinois politics. Host Jacoby Cochran, executive producer Simone Alicea, and contributor Leigh Giangreco discuss Pritzker’s apparent new role as kingmaker. They also discuss expected delays at O’Hare and revisiting our favorite breakfast sandwiches — including Leigh’s flaming hot take on eggs. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 23rd episode: Access Contemporary Music The Other Art Fair 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 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
'Your City Could Be Better': Could a Nevada Brothel Help Redefine Labor Standards Nationwide? — Presented By City Cast Chicago
The unionization efforts of sex workers in Nevada might have implications for gig workers in Chicago. At Sheri's Ranch, a legal brothel 45 minutes outside Las Vegas, some of the workers are seeking both recognition as employees and union representation. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with former City Cast Las Vegas podcast host, current contributor, and longtime Nevada attorney Dayvid Figler about why sex workers are considered independent contractors, what sparked this legal battle, and what happens if they win. Plus, what's different about neighborhoods in Las Vegas? Mentioned on the show: Could a Pahrump Brothel Union Set a New National Standard for Labor Laws? (City Cast Las Vegas) Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
Freezing Tipped Wage Hikes, Encampment Evictions, and West Town Restaurant Week
Back in 2023, Chicago’s city council voted to gradually raise the subminimum wage for tipped workers every July for five years until it matched the city’s full minimum wage in 2028. Now the city council has voted to freeze the annual increases. We are joined by the Tribune’s Jake Sheridan and the Reader’s Katie Prout to discuss Mayor Johnson’s plan to veto the vote. Plus, why did the city clear another encampment in Legion Park during the coldest week of the month, and how much did outside funding impact primary results? Good News: West Town Restaurant Week 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 March 20 episode: Access Contemporary Music Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Surviving All Four Chicago Seasons In a Day
This March feels like Chicago can’t make up its mind about what season it is. It can go from low 60s and sunny to low 20s and snowing — sometimes in just a day. That’s why the City Cast Chicago team is giving their pro-tips to survive those Chi days when all four seasons come to play. 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 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Here’s Who Won in the Primary Election
The results are in! Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea break down who won and who lost on primary day in Illinois, including the closely watched Senate race, congressional contests, and county elections. 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 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
It’s Election Day Today … and Tomorrow? Plus, Our Summer Plans at Ravinia
It’s primary election day! But did you know it’s also election day tomorrow? CPS families, teachers, students, and neighbors can cast a vote for their local school councils. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea are breaking down some county races, what LSCs do, and they’re planning their ideal Ravinia picnics. 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 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Who’s the Biggest Campaign Fundraiser? Plus, Preserving 400M-Year-Old Limestone
Campaign fundraising, super PAC spending, and where candidates are getting their money has been hotly debated this election season. Senate candidate and U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi is the nation’s second-highest fundraising federal candidate. City Cast contributor Leigh Giangreco and Block Club Chicago’s Maxwell Evans dive into how the congressperson amassed such a massive bankroll. Plus, we check in on restoration efforts at Morgan Shoal on the South Side, and host Jacoby Cochran asks: Where would you host your political photo-op? Good News: Asian Pop Up Cinema 20th Year Anniversary 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 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
‘Your City Could Be Better’: DC’s Plan To Hold Federal Agents Accountable — Presented By City Cast Chicago
Chicagoans are concerned about police accountability, especially with the increased presence of federal troops in many cities. DC Council in Washington recently passed emergency legislation requiring local police to release body-worn camera footage of incidents involving federal forces they patrol with, and to collect the names of federal officers who make arrests. It’s a big shift in local policy, partially motivated by the fact that local cops have damaged their reputation by patrolling with feds. City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran talks with City Cast DC podcast co-host and executive editor Mike Schaffer about the political stakes involved, the effectiveness of body cameras, and how Washingtonians are dealing with the heavy federal law enforcement presence. Plus, Mike and Jacoby weigh in on public transit etiquette in their cities when it comes to people playing music out loud. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email us now! We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
Election Day Countdown, CTA’s New Safety Plan, and Orchids Blooming
Primary election day is Tuesday. Of the many races we’re watching, we’re diving a little deeper into the open race for the 7th Congressional District. Jessica Mordacq with Austin Weekly News and Forest Park Review has been profiling the candidates. She joins host Jacoby Cochran and freelance reporter Brandon Pope to talk about what she’s learned, plus the new CTA safety plan, what’s happening for St. Paddy’s Day weekend, and Oscars buzz. 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 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Why Are So Many Breweries Closing? Plus, Animal Control Controversy and Public Bathrooms
Acting head of Chicago Animal Care and Control, Susan Cappello, has been leading the department for three years and is Mayor Brandon Johnson’s pick for the permanent role. But her appointment has been met with vehement opposition from shelter volunteers and others in the animal care community. Ahead of an expected confirmation vote next week, host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea break down the controversy. Plus, why so many Chicago breweries are closing and digging into Chicago’s lack of public bathrooms. 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 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE