City Cast Chicago

City Cast Chicago


Latest Episodes

Learning About Pigeon-Racing Made Us Pigeon Advocates
July 25, 2024

It’s pigeon-racing season. And while the sport is banned in Chicago, pigeons racing through the city can end up exhausted, confused, and possibly injured. Earlier this year, we visited a Great Lakes Pigeon Rescue foster home where we met some former racin

Your Approachable Guide to Wine in Chicago
July 24, 2024

As we enjoy our packed summer social calendars, we’re also enjoying a variety of beverages. That’s why over the next few weeks, we’re bringing you some guides on spots to drink, beverages to bring to your next hang, and how to appreciate what Chicago has

What's Next for DNC? Plus, New Restaurants and More Festivals
July 23, 2024

President Joe Biden has dropped out of the election and announced his support for Vice President Kamala Harris to take his place as the Democratic Party's nominee. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea are here to discuss what happens n

Can Transit Merger Save CTA?
July 22, 2024

Lawmakers are considering merging Chicagoland transit agencies — CTA, Metra, and Pace — to address declines in ridership and a looming $730 million budget crisis. Chicago Tribune transportation reporter Sarah Freishtat tells host Jacoby Cochran what we kn

What Makes Chicago Roller Skaters the Best?
July 05, 2023

Chicago roller skaters have long been called the smoothest roller skaters for their intricate footwork, elaborate routines, and signature swagger. We visit MLK Roller Skating and Bowling Center in Auburn Gresham with Chicago legend Theresa “Sweet T” Ferre

Have You Tried These ‘Hometown Bites’ From Chi?
July 03, 2023

Tired of the same old burgers and dogs on Fourth of July? Looking for something unique — and truly Chicago — to feed your out-of-town guests? Food writers Monica Eng and David Hammond have a whole book to help you out. “Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30

Terrible Air Quality, More Highway Expansions, and Holiday Cookouts
June 30, 2023

Earlier this week, Chicago had some of the worst air quality in the world due to wildfire smoke from Canada. Officials have recommended masking and limiting outdoor exposure. But should Chicagoans be prepared for smoke to happen more often as the impacts

NASCAR Rolls into Chicago…And You Have Opinions
June 29, 2023

After weeks of road closures and a healthy amount of skepticism from city residents, NASCAR weekend is upon us. We hear from a few City Cast listeners and Hey Chicago readers, some of whom want to avoid the area and others excited for the race. Plus, host

This Alder Wants City Council’s Immigration Committee to Actually Meet
June 28, 2023

The City Council’s committee on Immigrant and Refugee Rights is slated to meet this morning — the same committee that failed to meet for over a year even as the city scrambled to house thousands of arriving migrants and asylum-seekers. Now, it has a new c

Mayor Johnson vs. Candidate Johnson, Weird Local Laws, and Can Chicagoans Drive?
June 27, 2023

Five weeks into Mayor Brandon Johnson’s first term, and supporters as well as critics are watching closely to see if he’ll keep his campaign promises. Recent moves to continue to allow local school councils to keep police officers in schools and a payment