Mike Stephen talks to Tracy Baim, the co-publisher of the Chicago Reader, about that publication’s 50th anniversary and what it means to the city. Then, we learn about a proposal to fight homelessness in Chicago from Edrika Fulford, a member of the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless‘ Grassroots Leadership Team. And Mike tells the story of a high school prank that will help improve that school’s cybersecurity. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page, Spotify, or our RSS feed.

Posted 4 years ago Tagged

This week we learn how COVID-19 impacts local reentry facilities. (Photo credit: Mike Stephen/WGN Radio)

Mike Stephen learns how COVID-19 is impact local prison reentry facilities with freelance journalist Michael Murney, pays tribute to gymnast Dianne Durham by featuring his interview with her from 2006, and learns the Secret History of Chicago-born musician Jim Holvay. And in the OTL Wrap Party, Mike and Producer Collin get ready for their 4th of July celebrations. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page, Spotify, or our RSS feed.

Posted 4 years ago Tagged

We get a more complete story of carjackings in Chicago. (Photo credit: Mike Stephen/WGN Radio)

Mike Stephen gets the story behind the increase of carjackings in Chicago with University of Chicago sociologist Dr. Robert Vargas, discusses the impact of the pandemic on working mothers with Frank Manzo of the Illinois Economic Policy Institute, and chats with Keya Trammell about her new music. And in the OTL Wrap Party, Mike and Producer Collin recap the show and offer some takeaways. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page, Spotify, or our RSS feed.

Posted 4 years ago Tagged

Vashon Jordan Jr. documents local protests. (Photo Credit: Vashon Jordan Jr. Used with permission.)

Mike Stephen talks to Vashon Jordan Jr., the photographer behind the book Chicago Protests: A Joyful Revolution, checks in with Craig Morrall of the Nisei Lounge to see how that bar has survived the pandemic, and learns the Secret History of blues pianist Willie Mabon. And in the OTL Wrap Party, Mike and Producer Collin emphasize the importance of Vashon’s work, spicy hot wings, and exploring your community. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page, Spotify, or our RSS feed.

Posted 4 years ago Tagged