Nick catches up with Monica Eng from Axios to talk through the stories she’s been covering lately. They get into Governor J. B. Pritzker’s push for new nuclear power facilities in Illinois, ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year, and the annual joy of Paczki Day. Monica also shares thoughts on the new production of “Hamnet” at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, her first experience trying a Dirty Soda, and highlights from a recent trip to Puerto Rico.

Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick for a loose, funny catch-up that turns into a debate about traditions that might be past their expiration date. The handshake gets questioned, and class reunions get a full breakdown, complete with stories and strong opinions. It’s news, food, travel, and a little social commentary, all rolled into one easy conversation. [Ep 431]