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
We often have people in our inbox who want to get involved in the city’s vibrant arts scene. They’ve got this creative urge, but they just don’t know where to start. Our host Jacoby Cochran will be the first to tell you that Chicago’s open mic scene can be a great jumping off point. Whether you’re interested in sharing your poetry, original stories, music, or comedy there is definitely an open mic for you. Musician Sam Thousand co-founded Chibrations, an app that helps Chicagoans find open mics, live jam sessions, and performance opportunities. He gives us the best spots to check out and advice for budding performers and artists.
Open mics mentioned
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The Vienna Beef warehouse made a cameo in “The Bear,” next Wednesday is National Hot Dog Day, and we are entering peak cookout season. So we guess it’s time to finally talk about the Chicago-style hot dog. The City Cast Chicago team breaks down the Chicago dog’s origins, their favorite places to grab one, and if it deserves all the hype.
Spots mentioned:
Good News: The North Center Summer Music Series, Hyde Park’s Harper Court Music Series, and Deeply Rooted Summer Dance Intensive in Woodlawn
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NASCAR’s street race was held over the weekend in Grant Park. Between small music crowds, Sunday rain delays, and road reopenings, was this a successful NASCAR weekend? Plus, executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran talk about festivals this weekend and events for Chicago singles to find love — or at least one date — this summer.
Events mentioned:
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Mayor Brandon Johnson recently expanded financial assistance for families impacted by gun violence, including for funeral expenses. Meanwhile, a state program that aims to help families pay for burial costs when a child is killed by gun violence is off to a slow start, helping only two families in its first year. We talk with The Trace reporter Rita Oceguera who explains what families go through when a loved one is killed by a gun, why this money is needed, and how families can apply.
Some good news: Chicago Public Library
If you enjoyed today's interview with Ravinia Festival artistic producer Erik Soderstrom, learn more here.
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City Cast CEO David Plotz sits down with hosts from all 13 City Cast daily local podcast hubs to talk about what stories they’re watching in their hometowns that are likely to impact yours too. Listen in for how Jacoby Cochran's story stacks up against the rest.
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Chicago might be the snack capital from big brands like Nabisco and Kellogg to local ones like Garrett Popcorn and Jays Chips. But which Chi snacks are worth packing for your July 4th road trip or cookout? We’re bringing back a conversation from the winter between host Jacoby Cochran and producer Michelle Navarro, where they break down the best snacks the city has to offer and the snacks unworthy of your hard-earned money.
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NASCAR returns to Chicago this weekend. Last year’s race was marked by fierce debate, torrential rainstorms, and mixed economic returns. So how will this year’s event fare? Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea lay out their predictions. Plus, they rank their favorite Metra stops and discuss festival lessons from June.
Good news: Pride South Side
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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.
The holiday week will keep us busy in Chicago, but what else is happening this month besides Fourth of July? We got you covered with fireworks tips, summer eats, and a festival calendar.
For even more tips on how to make the most of July in Chicago, check out Hey Chicago’s take on what to do this month.
If you enjoyed today's interview with Revolution Brewing's founder, Josh Deth, learn more here.
City Cast Chicago’s guide to July is made possible by our awesome sponsor, Ravinia Festival. We’re 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.
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Reach us at chicago@citycast.fm.
In November, Chicagoans will go to the polls to elect members of the Chicago School Board for the first time. Filing week is over, and now we know a total of 47 candidates will be on the ballot across 10 districts. Chalkbeat Chicago’s Becky Vevea and WTTW’s Heather Cherone are in the building with everything we need to know before voting. Plus, we discuss former Ald. Ed Burke’s two-year prison sentence, City Council’s new revenue subcommittee, and first thoughts on ‘The Bear’ season 3.
Good News: New Restaurant ‘Feld’ Now Open in West Town & Stop The Violence Celebrity Basketball Game
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The third season of the Emmy award-winning show “The Bear” returned this week, and Chicago is ready for it. Host Jacoby Cochran and correspondent Greta Johnsen are breaking down the storylines they’re most excited for this season as the rain and dental work keep them inside this weekend. Plus, we’re talking about interesting Sundance films in Chicago this weekend and books we’re reading.
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