Are Chicago students struggling? (Photo credit: Mike Stephen/WGN Radio)

Mike Stephen discusses the preliminary results of Chicago student test data with Mila Koumpilova of Chalkbeat Chicago, gets the lowdown on the expansion of the Chicago Tool Library from co-founder Tessa Vierk, and learns about a new locally-produced film featuring Chicago street artists called Tagged from writer and executive producer Grant Troyer. To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our Apple Podcasts Page, Spotify, or our RSS feed.

OTL: #584-Inside Make! Chicago, The Parking Ticket Geek Returns, The Secret History of Jimmy Davis

Mike Stephen conversationalizes with:   Plastic Crimewave (aka Steve Krakow) about TBD for this week’s edition of The Secret History of Chicago Music;    Joseph Buka, founder of MAKE! Chicago; and,   The Parking Ticket Geek.   Let us know about your favorite cozy winter neighborhood bars/taverns here!   This week’s local music is provided by The Evening Attraction.  Mike attempts to find his inner craftsman at MAKE! Chicago.  To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our iTunes page or RSS feed.

OTL: Episode #483- Ald. Arena talks Chicago finances, Diversity in the teacher workforce, Getting crafty with Handmade Market

Mike Stephen talks with:   Chicago’s 45th Ward alderman John Arena about the city’s finances and why the Progressive Caucus is urging the Emanuel administration to reconsider its plans to pay interest rate swap termination penalties;   Jenner Academy of the Arts principal Robert Croston about school diversity and what it takes to produce more black teachers; and   Handmade Market organizer Heather Flett about what you can find at one of the longest-running craft markets in town.   Meanwhile, we defend our neighbors against RoadSnacks and their “10 Worst Chicago Suburbs” list.   This week’s local music is provided by the Ben Marshall Band.   OTL host Mike Stephen reps his beautiful yet economical hometown of Elmwood Park, Illinois.   To subscribe to the OTL podcast, please visit our iTunes page or RSS feed.