We head over to Wicker Park to discuss the challenges facing local business owners this past year. (Photo credit: Mike Stephen/WGN Radio)

Mike Stephen sits down with four local business owners at Janik’s Cafe in Wicker Park to discuss the challenges of 2023 and how to make 2024 a better year. The panel features Katie Coleman of Mulberry & Me, Scott Weiner of The Fifty/50, Mario Ponce of Takito Kitchen, and Felipa Janik of Janik’s. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page, Spotify, or our RSS feed.

We discuss the state of Chicago bars this week. (Photo credit: Mike Stephen/WGN Radio)

Mike Stephen gets an update on the state of Chicago bars and taverns with Mr. Chicago Bars, learns about the incredible work of the Common Pantry from executive director Maureen O’Conor, and chats with local musician Ron Lazzeretti about his new music and upcoming record release show. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page, Spotify, or our RSS feed.

What are the most conservative wards in Chicago? (Photo credit: Mike Stephen/WGN Radio)

Mike Stephen gets a profile of Chicago’s most conservative wards with Ted McClelland, contributing editor of Chicago Magazine, discusses new initiatives for youth mental health in Illinois with State Senator Mike Simmons, and discovers the Secret History of 1970s R&B group The Brighter Side of Darkness. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page, Spotify, or our RSS feed.

This week we learn about the state’s first Green Dining Hub. (Photo credit: Mike Stephen/WGN Radio)

Mike Stephen learns about the first Green Dining Hub in Illinois with Takeout 25 founder Ravi Parakkat, previews the Inspired By You Fest with the owner of Muse Coffee Studio, George Davis, Jr., and uncovers the Secret History of local pianist Marshall Vente. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page, Spotify, or our RSS feed.