Columnist and film critic Richard Roeper joins Bob Sirott to talk about how Governor J.B. Pritzker opened up about his recent weight loss and how Americans tend to feel about a political candidate’s health and physical appearance. They also discuss where people prefer to watch sports, whether that’s in their homes or in crowded pubs and taverns.

Jon Hansen, host and executive producer of the Block Club Chicago Podcast, joins Bob Sirott to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. Jon has details on:

Printers Row Lit Fest Marks 40th Anniversary With Headliners Sandra Cisneros, Bill Kurtis: This weekend’s event will feature children’s programs, political discussions, dance performances and more. “It’s a book lover’s paradise,” an organizer said.

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Opening In Wicker Park With Malört-Infused Scoops: The New York ice cream chain opens Sept. 12 on Damen Avenue with a limited-edition flavor featuring Chicago’s famously bitter liqueur.

211 Call Center, A Hotline Helping Chicagoans Meet ‘Basic Needs,’ Celebrates Move To South Side: The 211 Metro Chicago service, which refers people to resources for housing, income assistance and food security, moved into the Xchange Chicago tech hub.

40+ Theater Productions To Check Out In Chicago This Fall: From fantastical adventures to stirring musicals, hilarious comedy and elaborate drama, the legendary Chicago theater scene has a variety of performances for you to enjoy this season.

President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau Steve Bernas joins Bob Sirott to talk about fake job offer texts, how scammers are targeting grandparents by using AI, and how a local resident almost lost thousands of dollars in a phishing scam. He also discusses why you should avoid answering calls from “Google Support” and a jury duty scam in Lake County.

Dean Richards, entertainment reporter for WGN, joins Bob Sirott to provide the latest news in entertainment. Bob and Dean share details about why Lady Gaga postponed her Miami show, the “Superman” sequel announcement, and Sophie Turner’s new movie role. They also talk about Radiohead’s upcoming tour, Dean’s interview with Lauren Graham, and the feud between Roger Waters and Jack Osbourne.

On September 4th, 2025, Steve Grzanich shares today’s potential market drivers:

Thought Leader Drew Lear, Senior Vice President and Relationship Manager at Associated Bank, is with Steve Grzanich this week to discuss the upcoming jobs report and concerns that might come with it, as well as the rise in core inflation.

Karen Conti, Chicago trial attorney, joins Bob Sirott to talk about what could be the basis for a lawsuit if the federal troops are sent to Chicago and if the ruling in California would also apply to Illinois. She also discusses how a judge will decide if DNA technology is reliable enough to use for the Gilgo Beach murder trial and advice for people dating in the workplace.

Dr. Aileen Marty, Infectious Disease Specialist and Professor at Florida International University, joins Bob Sirott to talk about the latest health news. Dr. Marty shares details about which COVID vaccine she recommends getting and new rules from the FDA concerning certain COVID vaccines.

Anna Davlantes, WGN Radio’s investigative correspondent, joins Bob Sirott to share what happened this week in Chicago history. Stories include former President Ronald Reagan’s first pitch at a Cubs game, one of Oprah’s most iconic moments, the opening of Chez Paul, and more.

Shamus Toomey, Editor in Chief and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Bob Sirott to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. Shamus has details on:

Ridge Avenue Reopening After Months-Long Closure, But Work Begins On Clark Street, Ashland: Protected bike lanes are being added to Clark Street in Andersonville and Uptown, and Ashland Avenue is going to be repaved while pedestrian safety improvements are also installed.

Lost Something In Lake Michigan? This Chicago Scuba Diver Will Find It For You: Yohei Yamada reunites boaters with valuables they’ve dropped into the lake — from cellphones to wedding rings and Rolex watches. In the water is also where he is finding himself again.

Hidden Cove, Iconic Karaoke Bar, Closing This Month: The late-night karaoke hot spot in Lincoln Square will close Sept. 15, with its longtime building set to be redeveloped.