Podcast Episodes

Former charter operator Aspira wants profit from sale of taxpayer-funded school

Former charter school operator Aspira has declared bankruptcy. It comes just 11 years after the nonprofit built a modern school in Chicago’s Avond…

1 month, 1 week ago

Why has Illinois had so many storms this week?

Illinois might get even–more–storms today (FRI).

The rocky forecast follows a week of deadly severe weather that caused a wave of damage, leaving hun…

1 month, 1 week ago

Arabic immersion strengthens Muslim children’s cultural awareness and identity

For Chicago-area Muslim families, finding a preschool that reflects their values *and* supports their children’s development is a challenge.

Cultural…

1 month, 1 week ago

A shot at buying a building for strapped renters in changing Chicago communities

In recent years, many Chicago renters have been priced out of their neighborhoods.

In some parts of the city, there’s an ordinance in place that give…

1 month, 1 week ago

Chicago’s far Southeast side is an industrial area. Many residents are used to strange smells wafting through the air. But the smell coming from a nearby funeral home was different.

The South Deering neighborhood is in a historically heavy industrial area. This area was once home to large steel mills that have since closed. …

1 month, 1 week ago

Welcome to the neighborhood. Welcome to the block.

A listener wanted to know about the history of block clubs in Chicago and who is behind them today.

HOST: PUENTE

1 month, 2 weeks ago

57 decomposing bodies discovered at Far South Side funeral home

We're following an important local story today that could be disturbing for some listeners. Dozens of decomposing bodies were found at a Far South…

1 month, 2 weeks ago

WBEZ's Somer Van Benton spoke with the parents of Lollapalooza. Here's what they had to say.

Lollapalooza weekend brought thousands of people to Chicago’s Grant Park.

Amid the headliners and packed crowds, another group made its way through th…

1 month, 2 weeks ago

First pitch arrives in Springfield for Women's Pro Baseball League

The Women’s Professional Baseball League kicked off their inaugural season in Springfield this weekend.

And despite a forecast that brought showers a…

1 month, 2 weeks ago

Mega immigration court hearings in Chicago are fueling record deportation orders

The Trump administration is shifting tactics in its deportation campaign. Last year, the focus was aggressive arrests … highlighted by 'Operation…

1 month, 2 weeks ago