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 5 years ago Tagged

What is the future of Chicago bars after the pandemic?

Mike Stephen discusses the future of bars and taverns in Chicago with @ChicagoBars, talks to local journalist Alison Flowers about the new Chicago Police Torture Archive, and discovers the Secret History of 20th century bluesman Johnny Shines. And in the OTL Wrap Party, Mike and Producer Collin recap the show and remember that Valentine’s Day is this weekend. The local pandemic tunez come from Beach Bunny. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page or RSS feed.

Posted 5 years ago Tagged

Are food delivery apps ruining restaurants?

Mike Stephen discusses the impact of food delivery apps on local restaurants with Phillip Foss, co-owner of EL Ideas and Boxcar Barbecue, previews the FOIAFest with Chicago Headline Club president Madhu Krishnamurthy, and learns the Secret History of local blues shufflers The Aces. And in the OTL Wrap Party, Mike and Producer Collin reflect on using food delivery apps. The local pandemic tunez come from Harry James Brenner. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page or RSS feed.

Posted 5 years ago Tagged

Is our democracy healthy?

Mike Stephen discusses the health of our democracy in the wake of recent events with Dr. Joel Ostrow, professor of political science and an expert in the rise and fall of democracies.  Then we learn about the life of the late Alejandro Morales, a beloved local musician who recently passed away, from OTL contributor Steve Krakow (aka: Plastic Crimewave). And in the OTL Wrap Party, Mike and Producer Collin encourage us, the people, to get our act together when it comes to supporting our democracy. The local pandemic tunez come from Moss Grows. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page or RSS feed.

Posted 5 years ago Tagged