The Block Club Chicago Podcast

A group of 27 alderpeople introduced a set of alternative budget proposals to City Council that would scrap a corporate head tax. Mayor Brandon Johnson has doubled down on his support of the idea. Are we headed toward a government shutdown?Host - Jon HansenReporter - Quinn MyersRead More Here Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HEREWho we areBlock 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 coverageOur 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 daySince 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.

Patrick Filbin, a reporter for Block Club Chicago focusing on Homeland Security, dives deep into the propaganda tactics used by DHS during Operation Midway Blitz. He reveals how the agency transformed violent encounters into heroic narratives, often contradicting local facts. Filbin discusses specific incidents, like the conflicting accounts of the Franklin Park shooting and misleading videos from the South Shore raid. His insights on how DHS undermines local media and manipulates public perception highlight the urgent need for accountability in reporting.

Today's podcast is a field trip to the Chase Bank South Shore Community Center at 6650 S. Stony Island Ave. The branch was established to be a place for all neighbors to gather nearly five years ago. Today we attend a forum on fraud prevention, and see how neighbors are buying into the community center, and learning important tips to avoid scammers this holiday season. Host - Jon HansenGuests - Jared Evans, Chase Community Manager; CPD Detective John MaddenMore on Chase's Community Banking HereBlock Club's Coverage of the branch opening in 2021 Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HEREWho we areBlock 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 coverageOur 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 daySince 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.

A whimsical yet very serious public art project by Logan Square artist Charlie Dean is gaining traction as an alternative to a paid postal service, designed to be used for monumental conversations or difficult news that need softening.Host - Iridian FierroGuest - Charlie DeanRead More Here Want to donate to our non-profit newsroom? CLICK HEREWho we areBlock 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 coverageOur 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 daySince 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.

Michael Liptrot, a West Side reporter for Block Club Chicago, shines a light on local holiday gift shopping in Chicago. He highlights unique finds like gardening kits from the Garfield Park Conservatory and rare titles from Perpetual Books. Discover charming stationery at Atlas Stationery and delicious treats from Calumet Fisheries. Liptrot also shares exciting options in Englewood's streetwear and the vibrant offerings of the Discount Mall and Chinatown. The discussion emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses this holiday season.

Mark Carman, sports journalist and podcaster, dives into the Bears' impressive 8-3 record while cautioning fans to temper their enthusiasm. He discusses the pivotal changes with Coach Ben Johnson and rookie Caleb Williams, contributing to the team's likable identity. Carman analyzes their close wins, the role of luck, and possible sustainability concerns due to their negative point differential. He encourages fans to enjoy the journey, manage expectations, and even predicts a playoff berth, spotlighting standout players like Montez Sweat and rookie Colston Loveland.

Dr. Dipti Gupta, a breast imaging radiologist, dives into the rise in breast cancer diagnoses and how advancements are helping women survive. She emphasizes the importance of annual mammograms starting at 40, noting they can reduce mortality by up to 40%. Gupta discusses the latest in mammography technology and personalized treatment options, including targeted therapies for various patient demographics. She also highlights Rush's efforts to address healthcare disparities and improve community access to screenings, providing a hopeful outlook on early detection.

Quinn Myers, a city hall reporter for Block Club Chicago, dives deep into the tumultuous journey of Mayor Brandon Johnson's 2026 budget proposal. He explains the staggering $1.2 billion shortfall and the finance committee's pivotal rejection of the revenue ordinance. The discussion unpacks the controversial corporate head tax, illustrating its implications for businesses and the city's fiscal strategy. Myers also sheds light on the political dynamics within the council, highlighting the ongoing tensions and negotiations crucial to achieving a balanced budget.

In this engaging discussion, Mike Tepeli, a Groupon executive who has been with the company since 2010, shares insights on Groupon's Chicago roots and its revitalization journey. He talks about the need to refocus on local experiences after overcoming hurdles like overexpansion and the pandemic. Mike details the company's new strategies, including a curated marketplace and strong merchant relationships. Additionally, hear how a Groupon deal transformed Brigette's life, leading her to launch a successful trapeze business, illustrating the platform's impact on local entrepreneurs.

Melody Mercado, a reporter for Block Club Chicago, dives into the turbulent story of Gino and Marty's, a once-celebrated Italian restaurant in Fulton Market. She reveals how a viral Facebook post ignited an investigation into widespread unpaid wages and vendor debts, totaling over $400,000. Former employees share harrowing tales of missed paychecks, while vendor lawsuits mount. Despite dreams of a comeback, the financial chaos raises questions about the restaurant's future and broader issues in the industry, blending glamour with hidden struggles.