Stay ConnectedChicago’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
Why did Mayor Brandon Johnson go to Springfield? Will state police actually investigate the killing of Silverio Villegas González by ICE last year in Franklin Park? We’re answering these questions with Borderless Magazine’s Katrina Pham and WTTW’s Heather Cherone. Plus, eaglets have been spotted on the South Side, and Obama Presidential Center’s tickets are selling out fast.
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Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! Earlier this year, we visited the Carole Robertson Center for Learning at their Albany Park site to talk to teachers and students about why after-school programs are critical to families across the city. On the center’s 50th anniversary, we wanted to revisit the conversation we had with these Chicago kids about what they want adults to know.
Good news: Emmett and Mamie Till-Mobley House
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In April, a federal judge ruled the Trump administration could not cut Medicare and Medicaid funding to hospitals providing gender-affirming care to minors. Host Jacoby Cochran, contributors Anna Deshawn and Brandon Pope discuss why Chicago hospitals have yet to reinstate their services for transgender youth. Plus, lawmakers want gun manufacturers to pay for gun violence, and Chicago’s summer festival season is right around the corner.
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A new report shines light on how immigrant families in Chicago continue to suffer months after the height of Operation Midway Blitz. Many families are struggling to find consistent work, are behind on rent, and are at risk of eviction. Host Jacoby Cochran and creative producer Michelle Navarro look over the report’s findings. Plus, it seems that May Day went down pretty smoothly for CPS, and we’ve got some of our favorite places to take the kiddos in our lives.
Good News: "Aged Well" Documentary Screening
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May flowers are blooming all around us as summertime Chicago is on the horizon. We’ve got your guide to what’s happening in Chicago this month — rain or shine. Host Jacoby Cochran, creative producer Michelle Navarro, and audience development manager Chima Ikoro have events to look forward to, tips for May, and news stories to watch.
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Property tax bills remain a headache for thousands of Chicagoans, as tech issues continue to delay bill arrivals. We ask the Tribune’s A.D. Quig and Axios Chicago’s Monica Eng, who is to blame for this decade-long snafu. Plus, prosecutors weigh possible Midway Blitz investigations, Illinois farmers are struggling, and Unity Day 2026 is back in Englewood.
Good News: 1920s Chinese jazz cafe, “Oh, Mary!”
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Earlier this year, the co-owner of the restaurant Warlord, Trevor Fleming, was arrested and charged with sharing explicit images of a woman without consent. We discuss what some employees have called a culture of abuse and the impact it has had on the restaurant since. Host Jacoby Cochran is joined by contributors Leigh Giangreco and Al Scorch. Plus, the DMV continues its modernization effort, and we want to know which Chicagoan deserves a big-budget biopic.
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After years of advocacy, Mayor Brandon Johnson signed the Peacebook Executive Order. Developed by the youth-led organization, Good Kids Mad City, this order establishes the city’s first permanent year-round youth peacekeeping program. Host Jacoby Cochran is joined by contributors Brandon Pope and Anna Deshawn. They discuss details of the executive order, the new lesbian-owned bar Fathom, and the Chicago Critics Film Festival.
Good News: First Friday Music Series
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Chicago is officially in spring bridge-lifting season, when 27 bridges along the Main and South Branches of the Chicago River will lift twice a week to accommodate boats. As several bridges remain closed for construction, we are wondering about the state of Chicago’s bridges. Host Jacoby Cochran and creative producer Michelle Navarro are discussing results from the most recent federal inspection. Plus, the Red Line Extension officially breaks ground, and folks are lining up early for the city’s newest bagel shop.
Good News: Jazz + Gumbo: Brazilian Jazz on Vinyl
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So far in 2026, Illinois has received more severe weather warnings than any other state. However, FEMA aid remains delayed or overall rejected. The city cast team breaks down the latest numbers. Plus, Ford City Mall’s future is stuck in limbo, and what Chicago spot transports you back in time.
Good News: Just for a Thrill
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