Suburban Civics 101

Jackie Williamson and Ethan Spaid
  • 5.0 (10)
  • Politics
  • Updated Biweekly

Hosts Jackie Williamson and Ethan Spaid demystify local politics, government, and policy in the Chicago suburbs. They explore the often-overlooked world of local government, breaking it down without jargon or partisanship. Whether you’re a first-time voter or a long-time resident, this podcast empowers you to get informed and engaged in the politics that impact your community.

Episodes

  1. 03/24/2025

    Library Board

    In this episode of Suburban Civics 101, we explore the vital role of library boards with guests Marti Sladek (Downers Grove Library Board) and Ginger Kearney (Helen Plum Library Board). They break down how library boards shape policies, oversee budgets, and advocate for public libraries, as well as the key differences between elected vs. appointed boards. We also discuss how libraries are funded, the impact of technology on modern libraries, and Illinois' groundbreaking law banning book bans. Plus, our guests share the unexpected ways libraries serve their communities—like access to social services and making it easier for people in unincorporated areas to take advantage of their library. Tune in for a fascinating look at how libraries remain essential hubs for learning and connection. Do you have a question for a future episode? Reach out to the Suburban Civics 101 team on ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Threads⁠, ⁠BlueSky⁠, and ⁠TikTok @SuburbanCivics101, or email us at ⁠suburbancivics101@gmail.com⁠. This podcast is produced by Jackie Williamson, Ethan Spaid, and Josh Williamson, and is edited and mixed by Josh Williamson.

  2. 03/17/2025

    School Board

    In this episode of Suburban Civics 101, we dive into the role of school boards with guests Dave Long (CUSD 200) and Margaret DeLaRosa (Glenbard District 87). They break down what school boards actually do—like hiring superintendents, setting district priorities, and managing budgets—and debunk common misconceptions about their responsibilities. We also explore how public schools are funded, how curriculum decisions are made, and how boards navigate differing priorities from parents, teachers, and state regulations. With local elections coming up on April 1st, this episode is a must-listen for anyone wanting to understand how school boards impact our communities! Do you have a question for a future episode? Reach out to the Suburban Civics 101 team on ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Threads⁠, ⁠BlueSky⁠, and ⁠TikTok @SuburbanCivics101, or email us at ⁠suburbancivics101@gmail.com⁠. This podcast is produced by Jackie Williamson, Ethan Spaid, and Josh Williamson, and is edited and mixed by Josh Williamson.

  3. 03/10/2025

    City Council and Village Board

    In this episode of Suburban Civics 101, we dive into the roles of City Councils and Village Boards with Wheaton City Council Member Erica Bray Parker, and Carol Stream Village Trustee Matt McCarthy. They break down the differences between cities and villages, how budgets are created, and how elected officials balance the needs of residents and businesses. Whether you're curious about how ordinances are passed or how your tax dollars are spent, this episode sheds light on the impact these governing bodies have on daily life. Plus, with the April 1st local election approaching, we discuss why your vote matters! Do you have a question for a future episode? Reach out to the Suburban Civics 101 team on ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Threads⁠, ⁠BlueSky⁠, and ⁠TikTok @SuburbanCivics101, or email us at ⁠suburbancivics101@gmail.com⁠. This podcast is produced by Jackie Williamson, Ethan Spaid, and Josh Williamson, and is edited and mixed by Josh Williamson.

  4. 03/03/2025

    Townships

    Township government has been in the news, but what is a township, and what does it actually do? In this episode, we break it all down with Stacy Slater and Larry Pitts from Milton Township in DuPage County. We explore the history, responsibilities, and structure of township government, from property assessments to road maintenance and community services. Plus, we answer a listener question: Are townships still necessary in the suburbs? Tune in to learn how this often-overlooked level of government impacts your daily life! Do you have a question for a future episode? Reach out to the Suburban Civics 101 team on ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Threads⁠, ⁠BlueSky⁠, and ⁠TikTok @SuburbanCivics101, or email us at ⁠suburbancivics101@gmail.com⁠. This podcast is produced by Jackie Williamson, Ethan Spaid, and Josh Williamson, and is edited and mixed by Josh Williamson.

  5. 02/21/2025

    E00 | Teaser

    Welcome to the Suburban Civics 101 Podcast: your go-to resource for understanding the inner workings of local government and politics in the Chicagoland area! Hosted by Jackie Williamson and Ethan Spaid, this teaser episode introduces the mission of the podcast: to demystify suburban politics and give you the tools you need to better engage with your local government. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or disconnected from your local government, this podcast is for you. Get ready for interviews with elected officials, experts, and more, all aimed at helping you feel more informed and empowered to take action. Jackie shares her journey from confusion about township roles to running for office and discovering the interconnected pieces of local governance. Ethan, a lifelong Wheaton resident, dives into the challenges of understanding local elections and offers insights from his own experiences in lobbying and serving as a student ambassador to a local school board. Together, they explore the often-overlooked aspects of local politics, from non-partisan elections to the impact of key local offices like township, city council, school board, and more. Be sure to subscribe, today, on your favorite podcast app, so you never miss an episode. Do you have a question for a future episode? Reach out to the Suburban Civics 101 team on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, BlueSky, and TikTok @SuburbanCivics101, or email us at suburbancivics101@gmail.com. This podcast is produced, edited, and mixed by Josh Williamson.

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    4 Episodes

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About

Hosts Jackie Williamson and Ethan Spaid demystify local politics, government, and policy in the Chicago suburbs. They explore the often-overlooked world of local government, breaking it down without jargon or partisanship. Whether you’re a first-time voter or a long-time resident, this podcast empowers you to get informed and engaged in the politics that impact your community.

Information

  • Creator
    Jackie Williamson and Ethan Spaid
  • Years Active
    2025
  • Episodes
    5
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Jackie Williamson and Ethan Spaid
  • Show Website
    Suburban Civics 101