Podcast

The Block Club Chicago Podcast

Daily News, News, News Commentary

The important, emotional, inspiring stories affecting Chicagoans.
New episodes Tuesdays, Thursdays, or whenever a BIG story breaks.

Daily News chart
#120
Episodes
447
Releases
Twice a week
Typical length
22 min
On air since
2021
Latest episode
10 hours ago

Episodes

447 episodes, newest first

  1. Should Chicago Have Public Festival Grounds? It's On The Ballot.

    Episode 440

    Show notes

    From major music events like Lollapalooza to the world’s largest food fest, Chicago anchors some of the nation’s biggest music and cultural spectacles — often closing off city streets and public parks to make them happen.

    A measure on Tuesday’s midterm election ballot will ask Chicagoans if the city should have a permanent festival and outdoor event space instead.

    Read More Here

    Host - Jon Hansen

    Reporter - Leen Yassine

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    18 min
  2. Need A Halloween Costume? A Chicago Thrifting Expert Shares Her Secrets

    Episode 439

    Show notes

    No idea what to be for Halloween?! Costume thrifting expert Shelby Shafer take host Jon Hansen to a South Side Goodwill to get inspired.

    Host - Jon Hansen

    Guest - Shelby Shafer - HER INSTAGRAM

    Episode sponsored by GOODWILL

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    18 min
  3. The Cubs Win The Latest Round In Their 20-Year Battle With The Rooftops

    Episode 438

    Show notes

    The Cubs have battled the rooftop owners for well over two decades. A judge's ruling has given the Cubs a win in the final round -- for now. Also, Illinois law is changing to help people serving on juries.

    Host - Jon Hansen

    Guests -

    Patrick Dolan, Conti and Dolan Law

    Mike Leonard, Leonard Trial Lawyers

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    32 min
  4. A Billionaire's Squirrel-Feeding Operation Is Driving Neighbors Nuts

    Episode 437

    Show notes

    One family's nut-feeding operation has continued despite city fines, as neighbors report rat infestations, damage to park property and disruptions to Green City Market.

    Host - Jon Hansen

    Reporter - Patrick Filbin

    Read More Here

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    24 min
  5. Are You Good At Obscure Chicago Trivia? Let's Find Out.

    Episode 436

    Show notes

    Recorded live at the Block Club Chicago Block Party on October 3rd, hosts Jon Hansen and Iridian Fierro asked obscure Chicago trivia questions, and attendees gave it their best shot! How many out of 6 questions would you have gotten right?

    Hosts - Jon Hansen, Iridian Fierro

    More on the party HERE

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    24 min
  6. How The Pope's Diagnosis Could Motivate More Lung Cancer Screenings

    Episode 435

    Show notes

    News of the pope’s lung cancer diagnosis has been a blow to many Chicagoans and Catholics around the world. The news, while tough, could motivate more Chicagoans to get screened for lung cancer, something Americans are terrible at. On today’s Block Club Chicago podcast, Rush thoracic surgeon Dr. Gillian Alex, on what the Pope is likely dealing with, and how there’s a lesson there for all of us.

    Host - Jon Hansen

    Guest - Dr. Gillian Alex

    More at RUSH.EDU

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    18 min
  7. Fed Up With A Lack Of Benches At Bus Stops, Chicagoans Install Their Own

    Episode 434

    Show notes

    Members of a group called the Northwest Neighborhood Alliance acknowledge they didn’t have permission from the city to install the benches, but the local alderperson said he supports the effort.

    Host - Iridian Fierro

    Reporter - Quinn Myers

    Read More Here

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    22 min
  8. Austin Had No Banks For Years. Then A Credit Union Changed Everything.

    Episode 433

    Show notes

    When Great Lakes Credit Union moved into the Austin neighborhood, banks soon followed. And now, in what was once a financial desert, investment and infrastructure are starting to move into the community. On today's podcast, how GLCU members from all over Chicagoland have contributed to Chicago's West Side, and how you can join them.

    Host - Jon Hansen

    Guests - Steve Bugg, GLCU. Deborah Thurmond-Williams, The Leaders Network

    More on GLCU

    More on The Leaders Network

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    23 min
  9. Enjoy An Architecture Speed Date During Open House Chicago

    Episode 432

    Show notes

    Explore one of the largest architecture and urban festivals in the world as Open House Chicago returns to celebrate 16 years of architecture, culture and community. Lauren Bakos joins the pod with a preview!

    Open House Chicago

    Host - Jon Hansen

    Guest - Lauren Bakos

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    20 min
  10. Why Are So Many People Reluctant To Get Screened For Cancer?

    Episode 431

    Show notes

    Illinois has a cancer screening problem. One third of adults in the state are behind on colorectal cancer screenings. 30% of women aren’t up to date and screenings for cervical cancer, and 1 in 4 women aren’t getting screened regularly for breast cancer. And shockingly, only 6% of high risk Illinois adults are getting screened for lung cancer.

    On today’s podcast, sponsored by Rush, Dr. Lisa Stempel discusses why we’re bad at this, and why it could be a costly mistake.

    Host - Jon Hansen

    Guest - Dr. Lisa Stempel

    More at Rush.Edu

    Our previous episode on Colorectal Cancer HERE

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    21 min
  11. Will 'Broadview Six' Prosecutors Be Disciplined?

    Episode 430

    Show notes

    The 'Broadview Six' were back in federal court last week, as the prosecutors in their dropped case face potential discipline following alleged misconduct during the grand jury process.
    And the U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan bill aimed to 'fix college sports', five years after NIL payments were permitted -- upending the status quo.

    Host - Jon Hansen

    Guests - Mike Leonard, Patrick Dolan

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    34 min
  12. What To Know About Chicago's School Board Elections

    Episode 429

    Show notes

    All 21 members of the Chicago Board of Education are up for election this fall. Chicago voters can cast a ballot for a school board president and a representative from their district. Today's podcast gives you the lay of the land with a month till the election.

    Host - Jon Hansen

    Guest - Makiya Seminera

    Chicago School BoardVoter Guide 2026

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    19 min
  13. From Classroom To Crafting, This CPS Teacher's Side Hustle Finds A Home

    Episode 428

    Show notes

    A new pop-up boutique in Beverly focused on vintage clothing, accessories and jewelry started as a Chicago Public School teacher’s crafting hobby over twenty years ago.

    Beverly resident Melissa Matthews opened her pop-up boutique, Adorned By M, on Aug. 29 at 10045 S. Western Ave. The storefront features a mix of primarily vintage items including clothing, hats, accessories and jewelry.

    Host - Iridian Fierro

    Guests - Jim Lynch, Melissa Matthews

    Read More Here

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    19 min
  14. He Gives Clothes A Second Life, Though They May Be A Bit 'Freaked Up'

    Episode 427

    Show notes

    Uncle Greg -- as he is known by family, friends and fans -- has sewing in his blood. Growing up in a family where thrifting was a necessity as much as art, Greg has found a rejuvenated love for needle thread after years of putting that skillset away. On today's podcast, we join Greg on a journey to Goodwill, where he finds materials and inspiration!

    Host - Jon Hansen

    Guest - Uncle Greg

    MORE ON GOODWILL HERE

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    19 min
  15. Little Village No Longer Chicago’s Largest Latino Neighborhood

    Episode 426

    Show notes

    Little Village, one of the city’s most historic Latino neighborhoods, is no longer home to the largest Latino population in Chicago, a new study found.

    Belmont Cragin is now home to the largest Latino population with nearly 58,000 people, compared to 56,000 people in Little Village, according to the study by the Great Cities Institute at the University of Illinois Chicago.

    Host - Iridian Fierro

    Reporter - Francia Garcia Hernandez

    READ MORE HERE

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    23 min
  16. The 1901 Project Promises A Lot. Neighbors Wonder If They Can Deliver.

    Episode 425

    Show notes

    Plans for a rooftop park next to the United Center that previously called for a soccer pitch and green space have been scrapped in favor of more parking, but project developers assure a new park remains in the works for the area. Are neighbors convinced?

    Host - Jon Hansen

    Reporter - Michael Liptrot

    Read More Here

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    22 min
  17. Dungeons & Dragons Is Having A Moment In Chicago -- With Women

    Episode 424

    Show notes

    An event by the Chicago Tabletop Game Association catering to women, nonbinary and femme people sold out in five days — proof of the growing appetite among women for the roleplaying game.

    Host - Iridian Fierro

    Read More Here

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    23 min
  18. The Last Minute Push To Stop Illinois' Aid-In-Dying Law

    Episode 423

    Show notes

    Illinois is set to become the first Midwestern state to allow terminally ill patients to seek life-ending medication from their physicians when the law goes into effect on Saturday. There's a last minute push to stop the law before it starts.

    Host - Jon Hansen

    Guests - Mike Leonard, Patrick Dolan

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    39 min
  19. Is Living In Chicago Detrimental To Your Health? We Ask Rush Doctors

    Episode 422

    Show notes

    Does Chicago's noise, extreme temperature changes, allergies and varying sunshine add up to a detriment to its residents' health? You asked these questions, and we got answers from Rush doctors!

    Host - Jon Hansen

    Guests -

    Alana Kirby, MD, PhD, Neurologist

    Lauren Kelly, AuD, Audiologist

    Christopher Greb, MD, Allergist

    Linna Gali, MD, Dermatologist

    Lauren Cordes, DO, Family Medicine

    Jon Tueting, Hand and Upper Extremity Orthopedic Surgeon

    For more, head to Rush.edu

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    14 min
  20. This City Mushroom Farm Grows Fungi For Top Chefs — And ‘The Bear’

    Episode 421

    Show notes

    Four Star Mushrooms on the Near West Side supplies to grocery stores and some of Chicago’s most acclaimed restaurants. Its mushrooms have also appeared on the hit FX series.

    Host - Iridian Fierro

    Guest - Joe Weber, Four Star co-founder and president

    Read More Here

    Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HERE

    Who we are

    Block Club Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization dedicated to delivering reliable, relevant and nonpartisan coverage of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. We believe all neighborhoods deserve to be covered in a meaningful way.

    We amplify positive stories, cover development and local school council meetings and serve as watchdogs in neighborhoods often ostracized by traditional news media.

    Ground-level coverage

    Our neighborhood-based reporters don't parachute in once to cover a story. They are in the neighborhoods they cover every day building relationships over time with neighbors. We believe this ground-level approach not only builds community but leads to a more accurate portrayal of a neighborhood.

    Stories that matter to you — every day

    Since our launch seven years ago, we've published more than 30,000 stories from the neighborhoods, covered hundreds of community meetings and send daily and neighborhood newsletters to more than 150,000 Chicagoans.

    We've built this loyalty by proving to folks we are not only covering their neighborhoods, we are a part of them.

    Some of us have internalized the national media's narrative of a broken Chicago. We aim to change that by celebrating our neighborhoods and chronicling the resilience of the people who fight every day to make Chicago a better place for all.

    20 min

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