The Fran Spielman Show

Chicago Sun-Times
  • 4.2 (29)
  • POLITICS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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.

  1. 5D AGO

    Rep. Kam Buckner

    Fran Spielman interviews State Rep. Kam Buckner about efforts to keep the Chicago Bears in Illinois amid an Indiana proposal to finance a Hammond stadium. Buckner argues Indiana would shrink the Bears’ market and brand and notes potential contamination concerns at the proposed Indiana site.

    43 min

  2. FEB 20

    Remembering Rev. Jesse Jackson

    Fran Spielman interviews Neil Steinberg about the death of Rev. Jesse Jackson at 84 and the challenge of capturing his long, complicated life in a definitive obituary. They review Jackson’s rise from segregated Greenville, South Carolina (including the Greenville Eight library protest), his work with Martin Luther King Jr., and his Chicago impact through Operation Breadbasket boycotts and decades of political influence and clashes with mayors.

    58 min

  3. FEB 12

    Commissioner Ivan Capifali | Business Affairs and Consumer Protection

    Fran Spielman welcomes Chicago's Commissioner of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection, Ivan Capifali. They discuss vital initiatives to support small businesses, including Mayor Johnson's 'Cut the Tape' program aimed at reducing bureaucratic red tape. Capifali emphasizes the importance of streamlining the business licensing process and highlights the city's efforts to enhance small business support amidst economic challenges.

    44 min

  4. FEB 6

    Debating video gaming terminals: Ald. Anthony Beale (9th) & Ald. Walter "Red" Burnett (27th)

    In this episode, Fran Spielman hosts a discussion between two Chicago City Council members, Ald. Anthony Beale (9th) and Ald. Walter "Red" Burnett (27th), who are on opposing sides of the debate over legalizing video gaming terminals (VGTs) in the city. Beal advocates for lifting the current ban, citing the potential for significant revenue generation to alleviate budget deficits and support local businesses. Conversely, Walter Burnett argues against VGTs, focusing on public safety risks, potential cannibalization of casino revenue, and the adverse effects of increased gambling accessibility, particularly on younger men.

    42 min

  5. JAN 29

    Cristina Pacione-Zayas | Mayor Brandon Johnson's Chief of Staff

    In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Cristina Pacione-Zayas, former Illinois lawmaker and the current Chief of Staff to Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. Pacione-Zayas discusses the challenges and pressures of her role, focusing on key city issues such as affordability, safety, and infrastructure. The conversation also touches on the political tensions surrounding Mayor Johnson's administration, including budget disputes with the City Council and efforts to hold ICE agents accountable for their actions.

    51 min

  6. JAN 22

    Boosting Chicago tourism amidst challenges: Insights from Choose Chicago's Kristen Reynolds and Guy Chipparoni

    Fran Spielman hosts a conversation with Kristen Reynolds and Guy Chipparoni, the President & CEO, and Chairman of the Board of Choose Chicago, respectively. The discussion covers the financial challenges Chicago faces in competing with cities like Las Vegas and Orlando for conventions and tourism. Reynolds and Chipparoni emphasize the importance of marketing Chicago as a destination, regardless of season, highlighting winter activities, restaurant and theater weeks, and the potential of future significant events like the opening of the Obama Presidential Center.

    45 min

  7. JAN 13

    Bears fever: A post-season deep dive with Rick Telander & Marc Ganis

    Fran Spielman is joined by former Sun-Times sports columnist Rick Telander and sports stadium consultant Marc Ganis to analyze the Bears' gripping Wild Card victory against the Green Bay Packers, driven by the late-game heroics of quarterback Caleb Williams and wide receiver DJ Moore. The trio also examines the potential long-term impact of Bears' newfound success on their plans for a new stadium, debating whether it will be built in Arlington Heights, Illinois, or possibly Northwest Indiana.

    43 min

  8. JAN 7

    Congressman Mike Quigley

    Fran Spielman interviews Northside Congressman Mike Quigley about his decision to run for Mayor of Chicago. Quigley discusses the city's fiscal challenges, including the substantial budget allocation to debt and pensions, which he believes interfere with addressing critical issues like mental health, homelessness, and public safety. He underscores the need for fiscal reforms, efficient management, and collaboration with state and federal governments. Quigley also critiques the current mayor's handling of the city's budget and emphasizes his own experience in making tough decisions.

    44 min
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4.2
out of 5
29 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Chicago Sun-Times
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    346
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Chicago Sun-Times Media Productions, LLC
  • Show Website
    The Fran Spielman Show

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