Fran Spielman interviews Steve Mahr, Chicago’s newly appointed acting Chief Financial Officer, who shares his background in public service and public finance investment banking. They discuss Chicago’s recent budget stalemates, the rejection of Mayor Brandon Johnson’s corporate head tax, and warnings of a possible $160 million midyear shortfall, as well as the city’s decision to split the advanced pension payment due to delayed Cook County property taxes.

Fran Spielman interviews Chicago Public Media’s Tina Sfondeles and Dave McKinney about Illinois’ St. Patrick’s Day election, focusing on surprises and the role of money and endorsements. They discuss Juliana Stratton defeating big-spending Raja Krishnamoorthi in the U.S. Senate primary, aided by JB Pritzker’s $5 million and popularity, and argue debates and messaging on ICE mattered more than fundraising. They cover key House primaries shaped by retirements and machine support (Jan Schakowsky backing Daniel Biss; Danny Davis backing LaShawn Ford), note influencer-driven candidate Kat Abughazaleh’s strong showing, and examine statewide races including Darren Bailey’s GOP gubernatorial nomination.

Fran Spielman interviews Ravinia Festival president and CEO Jeff Haydon about the final stages of a $75 million, two-year renovation of the 75+ year-old Hunter Pavilion, including new seating, improved visibility, an expanded stage, and enhanced acoustics. They also discuss major headliners and debuts (including Paul Simon, Hugh Jackman, Ricky Martin, Chance the Rapper, Miranda Lambert, Billy Idol, Rod Stewart, and Kool & the Gang).

Fran Spielman talks Oscars with film critic Richard Roeper, host of The Movie of Your Life podcast, focusing on the tight Best Picture race between ‘Sinners’ (a record 16 nominations) and Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘One Battle After Another.’ Roeper predicts major category splits (including Best Actor, Best Actress, supporting races), discusses what makes ‘Sinners’ work beyond the vampire premise, praises ‘Hamnet’ and ‘Song, Song Blue,’ and weighs in on concerns that the Paramount-Skydance bid for Warner Bros. Discovery could reduce competition and jobs in the creative industry.

Fran Spielman interviews State Rep. Kam Buckner about efforts to keep the Chicago Bears in Illinois amid an Indiana proposal to finance a Hammond stadium. Buckner argues Indiana would shrink the Bears’ market and brand and notes potential contamination concerns at the proposed Indiana site.

Fran Spielman interviews Neil Steinberg about the death of Rev. Jesse Jackson at 84 and the challenge of capturing his long, complicated life in a definitive obituary. They review Jackson’s rise from segregated Greenville, South Carolina (including the Greenville Eight library protest), his work with Martin Luther King Jr., and his Chicago impact through Operation Breadbasket boycotts and decades of political influence and clashes with mayors.

Fran Spielman welcomes Chicago's Commissioner of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection, Ivan Capifali. They discuss vital initiatives to support small businesses, including Mayor Johnson's 'Cut the Tape' program aimed at reducing bureaucratic red tape. Capifali emphasizes the importance of streamlining the business licensing process and highlights the city's efforts to enhance small business support amidst economic challenges. 

In this episode, Fran Spielman hosts a discussion between two Chicago City Council members, Ald. Anthony Beale (9th) and Ald. Walter "Red" Burnett (27th), who are on opposing sides of the debate over legalizing video gaming terminals (VGTs) in the city. Beal advocates for lifting the current ban, citing the potential for significant revenue generation to alleviate budget deficits and support local businesses. Conversely, Walter Burnett argues against VGTs, focusing on public safety risks, potential cannibalization of casino revenue, and the adverse effects of increased gambling accessibility, particularly on younger men. 

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Cristina Pacione-Zayas, former Illinois lawmaker and the current Chief of Staff to Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. Pacione-Zayas discusses the challenges and pressures of her role, focusing on key city issues such as affordability, safety, and infrastructure. The conversation also touches on the political tensions surrounding Mayor Johnson's administration, including budget disputes with the City Council and efforts to hold ICE agents accountable for their actions. 

Fran Spielman hosts a conversation with Kristen Reynolds and Guy Chipparoni, the President & CEO, and Chairman of the Board of Choose Chicago, respectively. The discussion covers the financial challenges Chicago faces in competing with cities like Las Vegas and Orlando for conventions and tourism. Reynolds and Chipparoni emphasize the importance of marketing Chicago as a destination, regardless of season, highlighting winter activities, restaurant and theater weeks, and the potential of future significant events like the opening of the Obama Presidential Center.