The Fran Spielman Show

Feb 06 2025 296 ep. 33 mins 13

The Fran Spielman Show Podcast artwork

Join veteran City Hall reporter Fran Spielman as she interviews Chicago’s biggest movers and shakers. Each week, Fran sits down with a local leader, politician or policymaker to get the inside scoop on the latest news in Chicago.

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Sun-Times sports columnist Rick Telander | Super Bowl preview & remembering Virginia McCaskey

Feb 06 2025 38 mins

In this special Super Bowl week episode, Fran Spielman and Chicago Sun-Times sports columnist Rick Telander discuss the evolution and significance of the Super Bowl, the unique qualities of star quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts. Rick provides insights into the future of the Bears, including the hiring of their new head coach Ben Johnson, potential conflicts of inte

Chicago's Response to Mass Deportation Efforts

Jan 30 2025 36 mins

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman is joined by Beatriz Ponce de León, Chicago's Deputy Mayor for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, and Lawrence Benito, Executive Director of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, about the impact of President Donald Trump’s mass deportation efforts on Chicago’s immigrant community. They discuss the community’s response

Investigative Legacy: A Conversation with Tim Novak

Jan 24 2025 39 mins

In this week’s episode, Fran Spielman interviews Tim Novak, a distinguished investigative reporter at the Chicago Sun-Times, who recently announced his step back from full-time work after a 30-year career. Novak reflects on his career, his motivations, the challenges facing investigative journalism today, and future projects. The conversation also delves into the personal impact

Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch Discusses State Challenges and Trump Era Strategies

Jan 16 2025 36 mins

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch regarding a variety of pressing state issues as Illinois prepares for a new Trump presidency. Welch addresses the financial struggles of middle-class families, the state's strategies to 'Trump-proof' itself, the potential impact of Trump's policies, and the need for responsible budgeting without resorting

Chicago news year in review

Dec 17 2024 39 mins

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman is joined by colleagues and investigative reporters Tim Novak and Robert Herguth to discuss the tumultuous year in Chicago politics under Mayor Brandon Johnson. They delve into various controversies, including the failed referendum on homelessness, the resignation of the Board of Education, and the mismanagement within the mayor's office.

U.S. Ambassador to Japan and former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel

Dec 03 2024 37 mins

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Rahm Emanuel, the former Chicago mayor and outgoing U.S. Ambassador to Japan. They delve into Emanuel's reflections on public service, his tenure in Tokyo, and his potential future endeavors. The conversation also explores the challenges faced by current Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, the Democratic Party's strategies, and the implications

Balancing Chicago's Budget: A City Council Perspective with Ald. Matt O’Shea (19th) & Ald. Andre Vasquez (40th)

Nov 21 2024 35 mins

In this episode, Fran Spielman talks with Southwest Side Alderman Matt O'Shea and North Side Alderman Andre Vazquez about the ongoing conflict with Mayor Brandon Johnson over the 2025 budget for Chicago. The discussion covers challenges such as the proposed property tax increase, budget cuts, and finding new revenue sources. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and Cal

Kennedy Bartley, Chief of External Affairs

Nov 14 2024 37 mins

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman interviews Kennedy Bartley, Mayor Brandon Johnson's Chief of External Affairs, about Chicago's progressive revenue needs, the upcoming city council vote on a $300 million property tax, and the broader budget process. Bartley discusses the mayor's commitment to transparency, collaboration, and values-focused budgeting, addressing issues fro

Sun-Times reporters recap the 2024 election results

Nov 08 2024 37 mins

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman is joined by political experts Lynn Sweet, Tina Sfondeles, and Mitch Armentrout to dissect the surprising reelection of Donald Trump. The discussion delves into Trump's performance among various voter demographics, Kamala Harris' campaign challenges, and the broader ideological shifts at play. The panel also explores the potential impacts

Discussing Mayor Johnson's proposed Chicago budget | Ald. Anthony Beale (9th)

Oct 31 2024 36 mins

In this episode, Fran Spielman is joined by Ald. Anthony Beale (9th) to discuss Chicago's looming budget crisis. With Mayor Brandon Johnson proposing a $17.3 billion budget and a contentious $300 million property tax increase, Beal critiques the Mayor's policies and governance style. The episode delves into the political dynamics within the Chicago City Council and explores potenti