Ray Long, the great investigative reporter at the Chicago Tribune, joins John Williams to tell us everything we need to know about the Mike Madigan trial now that the jury has begun deliberations.

Enjoy this edition of “The Best of Speed Jokes.” What was your favorite joke of the week? Keep sending your jokes to [email protected]!

Jonathan Pozerycki, Partner, Chicago Region, Bridge Industrial, tells John about two new projects coming to Romeoville, Bridge Point Romeoville and Bridge Point I-55 Commerce Center. Jonathan talks about the progress of these developments, why Romeoville is a great location for these projects, and how they pride themselves on working with the villages where they build.

Dr. David Livingston, President, Lewis University in Romeoville, joins John Williams to talk about the alumni who work at WGN, how many students attend Lewis, how Lewis emphasizes practical experience as part of their curriculum, the success of their sports programs, the importance of his liberal education, why he believes good citizenship comes from a well-rounded education, the variety of programs the university offers, and the affordability of attending Lewis.

Author and registered dietician nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner joins John Williams to talk about the difference between processed and ultra-processed foods, the correlation between processed meat and brain health, and a new study showing that it takes more than 21 days to build a habit. Dawn also answers all of your health and nutrition questions.

John Williams brings you another round of Speed Jokes. Keep sending yours to [email protected].

The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the confusion over the Trump administration’s federal funding freeze. What were the big takeaways from the chaos that ensued this week? ICE agents came to Chicago over the weekend to search for immigrants with criminal histories. Austin explains the collateral damage that comes with such raids. Where are the rest of the Rascals on what happened? Also, why was Dr. Phil hanging around? The Rascals also comment on the news that the White House will expand access to press briefings. Is expanding access to new media a good idea? The jury has begun deliberations in former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan’s corruption trial. Do the Rascals believe Madigan will be found guilty of the charges? And what are the Rascals recommending this week? Cate and Brandon want you to watch some new TV, while John and Austin highlight a couple of books they have been enjoying.

Elder law attorney Kerry Peck joins John Williams to answer all your questions about elder law, trusts, wills, and elder abuse. Kerry discusses the two types of Power of Attorney in Illinois, and the importance of planning in advance for unexpected life circumstances.

Gabe Gonzalez, volunteer and organizer with Protect RP, joins John Williams to talk about the ICE raids that have been taking place in Chicago and what Protect RP is doing to educate residents on their rights in case immigration authorities come to the door.

Bob Bertog, president of Bertog Landscape Co. in Wheeling and a certified landscape professional with the National Association of Landscape Professionals, joins John Williams to answer all of your lawn and garden questions. Bob is concerned about fluctuating temperatures and how they will impact your plants and shrubs. What should we be doing now while we have a few nice winter days?