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
If you’re looking to quit Dry January right when it ends, or if you need a spot to hang out with non-Dry January friends, breweries are the perfect place. Chicagoland has one of the highest concentrations of breweries in the country. Executive producer Simone Alicea talked with Adam Drakulic, a local Brewery tour guide, in 2024 about Chicago’s brewing history and how to truly make the most of the craft beer scene.
Spots mentioned:
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Bally’s Chicago casino is seeking an extension on its construction deadline for its permanent site in River West. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea discuss the latest news, including whether the city can buy back the parking meters after the infamous $1 billion deal that left Chicagoans feeling scammed. Plus, a look back at the Bears game and how this storybook season left the city feeling.
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Our video about “slashies” (bars-slash-packaged goods stores) really got you all debating about what “real” Chicagoans call things. Host Jacoby Cochran, social media manager Rick Homuth, and executive producer Simone Alicea debate whether “slashie” is a real thing and the popularity (or perceived popularity) of other Chicago slang terms.
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Earlier this week, Trump was once again threatening to withhold funding from Chicago and other sanctuary cities with stated commitments to protecting immigrants. We sat down with TV host Brandon Pope and South Side Weekly’s Alma Campos to discuss whether these threats will withstand ongoing legal challenges. Plus, Venezuelans migrants feel left in limbo, Fulton Market's business rents are skyrocketing, and the MSI’s newest exhibits are a must-visit.
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Barnes & Noble, the last of the giant chain bookstores, is opening a massive flagship store downtown after the company’s Wicker Park location opened last year. Host Jacoby Cochran and host of “Happy To Be Here”, Greta Johnsen, discuss what this resurgence means for Chicago’s independent bookstores, where they get their books, and Greta’s picks from Chicago authors.
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Just because we are in the midst of Chicago winter doesn't mean you have to stay inside. Host Jacoby Cochran, executive director Simone Alicea, and producer Michelle Navarro talked last fall about all the food, drinks, and activities that cost 10 dollars or less.
Some lists and resources:
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Last week, the Chicago Public Schools’ Office of the Inspector General released its annual report, which included investigations into cases of pandemic relief fraud, financial mismanagement, and sexual abuse and misconduct. Producer Michelle Navarro and host Jacoby Cochran discuss the findings. Plus, we’re reliving the Bears' historic playoff comeback and talking about our favorite spots during Chicago Restaurant Week. Check out Paige Serena’s Restaurant Week spreadsheet.
Good News: Tomorrow Never Knows at Ramova
This episode mentions sexual assault, so please take care when listening.
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The 2026 Primary Elections are right around the corner. So we’re talking about the biggest races we’re watching, including the contest for U.S. Senate, the county board president’s race, and the future of property tax assessments. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran also break down historic retirements in their congressional districts.
Good News: The Moth at The Den
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The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability held a meeting this week to hear testimony from Chicagoans about federal immigration enforcement over the past six months. We talk about the latest news with Block Club Chicago’s Francia Garcia Hernandez and The Triibe’s Corli Jay, including a teen curfew advancing in the City Council, an affordable housing initiative in North Lawndale, indoor farmers markets, and how you can help families impacted by ICE. Plus, we share predictions for the Bears' playoff game against our rivals.
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As the federal funding outlook for child care and educational programs looks more and more uncertain, we decided to visit the after-school program at Carole Robertson Center for Learning’s Albany Park site. As the center celebrates its 50th anniversary, host Jacoby Cochran and producer Michelle Navarro ask some of the kids in the program what they think Chicago adults should know, and they talk to staffers about why these programs are important.
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