In the wake of difficult times abroad and at home, we discuss our shared humanity this week. (Photo credit: Mike Stephen/WGN Radio)

Mike Stephen discusses shared humanity with Rabbi Ari Hart of the Skokie Valley Agudath Jacob Synagogue, learns about a new study that debunks myths about Illinois’ population from Frank Manzo of the Illinois Economic Policy Institute, and discovers the Secret History of the 1960s local garage-rockers The Rooks. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page, Spotify, or our RSS feed.

This week we explore the trauma of youth gun violence. (Photo credit: Mike Stephen/WGN Radio)

Mike Stephen discusses the residual trauma for students impacted by gun violence with Mauricio Pena of Chalkbeat Chicago, learns about the disparities in school discipline in the northwest suburbs from Jennifer Richards of the Chicago Tribune, and explores a new report detailing Illinois Muslims assets and needs with Dr. Joe Hoereth, director of the Institute for Policy and Civic Engagement at UIC. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page, Spotify, or our RSS feed.

A lovely Chicago speed camera.

Mike Stephen learns about the impact of Chicago traffic cameras on minority communities with Pro Publica reporter Emily Hopkins, explores the fight against anti-Semitism in society with Michael Siegel, senior rabbi at Anshe Emet Synagogue in Lakeview, and chats with Mark Vickery about new music for his Cosmic Bull project. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page, Spotify, or our RSS feed.

Rev. Bonnie Perry and Mike Stephen at All Saints Episcopal Church in Chicago's Ravenswood neighborhood.

Mike Stephen chats the outgoing rector of Ravenswood’s All Saints Episcopal Church and bishop-elect of The Episcopal Diocese of Michigan, Rev. Bonnie Perry, about community-building and a life of service and then discovers the Secret History of 70s local country-rockers Possum River.  This week’s local music is brought to you by Alex Ellsworth. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our iTunes page or RSS feed.