All For The Love of Chicago

Choose Chicago
  • 4.2 (17)
  • Places & Travel

What makes Chicago one of the greatest cities in the world? The people who call it home. All For the Love of Chicago dives into the neighborhoods, creators, and changemakers who make this city what it is. Produced and hosted by Choose Chicago — your official guide to the city. Visit choosechicago.com for more, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 23h ago

    Chicago’s Hispanic Heritage: A Culture Making Its Mark

    Welcome back to another episode of All For the Love of Chicago! We’re kicking things off with plenty of Chicago stories, travel talk, fall traditions, and an inspiring conversation with a special guest as we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month and the incredible impact of Chicago’s Hispanic community. We kick things off with "The Deep Dish" as Kristen and Lisa reflect on Chicago’s unpredictable weather and the buzz it’s creating on TikTok. Kristen also shares her experience moving her kids into their dorms and apartments before the two dive into all things travel, including some of the wild things that can happen at the airport. And "Just So You Know," you might just relate to this one. In our featured segment, "We’re Lovin’ It," Kristen and Lisa welcome Jaime di Paulo, President and CEO of the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month through October 15th. Jaime shares why he believes Chicago’s Hispanic community has continued to make its mark on the world, some of his favorite Hispanic-owned spots around the city, and upcoming events to look forward to, including their Día de los Muertos Gala. He also opens up about a recent health scare and the importance of always being your own advocate. We wrap up with Let’s ChicaGO, where Joanie and Fabiola highlight some of the exciting events happening around Chicago toward the end of September, including the World Music Festival, The Reeling Film Festival, the Día de los Muertos exhibition at the National Museum of Mexican Art, Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up, Lincoln Square Apple Fest, Chicago Fashion Week, and more. From music and film to food, fall traditions, and cultural celebrations, there’s plenty to get out and enjoy as we officially welcome the fall season! Follow Along on Instagram: Choose Chicago: https://www.instagram.com/choosechicago All For the Love of Chicago: https://www.instagram.com/allfortheloveofchicago Visit choosechicago.com for more information, and be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Chicago’s Hispanic Heritage: A Culture Making Its Mark

  2. 6d ago

    Fall Is Brewing: Goose Island, Chicago Traditions & What’s Happening This September

    Welcome back to another episode of All For the Love of Chicago! As we settle into a new season, we’re bringing you another episode packed with Chicago stories, local traditions, beer, and plenty of things to look forward to around the city. Plus, we’re sitting down with a true Chicago legend whose impact on the city’s beer scene spans more than three decades! We kick things off with "The Deep Dish" as Kristen and Lisa catch up on what’s happening around Chicago and share what they love most about the fall season. In our featured segment, "We’re Lovin’ It," Kristen and Lisa welcome John Hall, founder of Goose Island Beer Company. John takes us back more than 30 years to the early days of Goose Island and shares what inspired him to bring the iconic brewery to life in Chicago. They talk about why Chicago was the perfect place to start Goose Island, the evolution of the brewery over the years, and some of the incredible beers that have become part of Chicago’s beer culture. We wrap up with Let’s ChicaGO, where Joanie and Fabiola highlight some of the exciting events and experiences happening around Chicago in late September, including International Greeter Day, Emston Folk Festival, Chicago Live! at Navy Pier, Chicago Gourmet, Riot Fest, and more. From food and music to festivals and uniquely Chicago experiences, there’s plenty to look forward to as we head into fall. Follow Along on Instagram: Choose Chicago: https://www.instagram.com/choosechicago All For the Love of Chicago: https://www.instagram.com/allfortheloveofchicago Visit choosechicago.com for more information, and be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Fall Is Brewing: Goose Island, Chicago Traditions & What’s Happening This September

  3. Aug 27

    Chicago, One Block at a Time: The Ultimate City Run

    Welcome back to another episode of All For the Love of Chicago! This episode, we're catching up on the latest happenings around the city, from the never-ending hype and long lines at Hello Kitty to the arrival of Chicago's new Nutella store. Plus, with Labor Day Weekend right around the corner, fall is already creeping in, and apparently Costco is ready for it! We kick things off with "The Deep Dish" as Lisa and Kristen recap what's been happening around Chicago. They chat about the latest buzz around town, look ahead to Labor Day Weekend and the unofficial start of fall, and playfully read an honest review from one of their listeners who had a few things to say about the show. In our featured segment, "We're Lovin' It," Lisa and Kristen welcome Joabe Barbosa, a graduate student at Roosevelt University who has taken his love for Chicago to an incredible scale. Originally from Brazil, Joabe set out to become the first person to run every block in Chicago, covering more than 4,000 miles across all 77 neighborhoods. They dive into what inspired his journey, how experiencing Chicago one block at a time changed his perspective on the city, the communities and neighborhoods that left the biggest impressions, and how his story went viral and helped showcase Chicago to audiences around the world. Plus, Joabe shares what he loves most about Chicago, where he'd send someone spending their first weekend in the city, and what he hopes people take away from his journey. We wrap up with Let's ChicaGO, where Joanie and Fabiola highlight some of the events and experiences happening around the city, including Chicago Summer Screenings, the Edgewater Music Festival, the Malört World Record Contest, Bike the Drive, and more. From neighborhood festivals to unique Chicago traditions, there's plenty happening around the city as summer winds down. Follow Along on Instagram: Choose Chicago: https://www.instagram.com/choosechicago All For the Love of Chicago: https://www.instagram.com/allfortheloveofchicago Visit choosechicago.com for more information, and be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! Learn more about the Choose Chicago Foundation 2026 Gala: https://www.choosechicago.com/rsvp/?action=details&noredirect=1&eventId=5231 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Chicago, One Block at a Time: The Ultimate City Run

  4. Aug 13

    Chicago’s Underwater Neighbors: A Deep Dive Into Shedd Aquarium

    Welcome back to another episode of All For the Love of Chicago! This episode, we're catching up on the latest Chicago summer happenings, from the excitement and celebrity buzz surrounding Lollapalooza to a deep dive into one of the city's most iconic cultural institutions, Shedd Aquarium. We kick things off with "The Deep Dish" as Lisa and Kristen dive into the latest happenings around Chicago. Kristen recaps her Lollapalooza experience, including a run-in with someone from, you guessed it, The Golden Bachelor! They dish on the stars who were in town for the festival, including surprise appearances from Olivia Rodrigo and Sam Fender, celebrity visits to Chicago staples like Mr. Beef, and the social media community coming together to share the best Lolla survival hacks, from navigating the rain to tracking down the secret Hunter boots. Plus, they chat about Chicago's back-to-school tax offer for parents and what else is still on their summer bucket lists. In our featured segment, "We're Lovin' It," Lisa and Kristen welcome Meghan Curran, Chief Operating Officer at Shedd Aquarium. With more than 25 years at one of Chicago's most beloved cultural institutions, Meghan shares what she loves most about Chicago, why Shedd Aquarium remains such an iconic part of the city's experience for visitors and locals, and what it's like to lead an institution dedicated to conservation, education, and community engagement. Meghan also discusses Shedd's recent beluga whale rescue that captured national attention, the aquarium's Centennial Commitment as it approaches its 100th anniversary in 2030, and exciting new and upcoming experiences including Wonder of Water, Amazon Rising, and a new entryway experience. Plus, they spill the tea on the aquarium's most "high-maintenance" animal, while Meghan shares some of her favorite animal encounters, memorable guest experiences, and the can't-miss sights she'd recommend to anyone visiting Shedd Aquarium for the first time. We wrap up with Let's ChicaGO, where Joanie and Fabiola highlight some of the city's can't-miss summer events and experiences, including the Taylor Street Little Italy Festa, Villapalooza, Chicago Summer Dance in the Parks, and Chalk Howard Street. From neighborhood celebrations to outdoor performances and art-filled streets, there's no shortage of ways to experience the energy, culture, and community that make Chicago summers so special. Follow Along on Instagram: Choose Chicago: https://www.instagram.com/choosechicago All For the Love of Chicago: https://www.instagram.com/allfortheloveofchicago Visit choosechicago.com for more information, and be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! Learn more about Chicago's back-to-school sales tax holiday: https://tax.illinois.gov/research/publications/bulletins/fy-2026-30.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Chicago’s Underwater Neighbors: A Deep Dive Into Shedd Aquarium

  5. Jul 30

    Relationship To Table: Chicago's Rich Culinary Scene with James Beard Winner Chef Jake Potashnick

    Welcome back to another episode of All For the Love of Chicago, the podcast where we celebrate the people, places, and experiences that make Chicago one of the world's most dynamic destinations. From iconic summer traditions to unforgettable culinary stories, we're bringing you even more reasons to fall in love with the city. We kick things off with "The Deep Dish" as Kristen returns to the podcast, catching us up on her recent travels and a whirlwind of summer events across the city. Lisa and Kristen recap her trip to the FIFA World Cup, celebrate the ribbon cutting for Eli's Cheesecake's 46th birthday, and reflect on Rainbow Cone's incredible 100th anniversary celebration. They also share their excitement for the return of Lollapalooza, previewing this iconic Chicago tradition and the incredible lineup of artists set to take over Grant Park as summertime in Chicago reaches its peak. In our featured segment, "We're Lovin' It," Lisa and Kristen welcome Chef Jake (Jacob) Potashnick, owner of Feld Restaurant and recent James Beard Award winner. Jake reflects on Chicago's world-renowned culinary scene, what growing up in the city means to him, and how it shaped his career while inspiring the Relationship To Table philosophy at Feld Restaurant. He shares the inspiration behind his approach to hospitality, reveals a few of his favorite "death row bite" spots across Chicago, and discusses why hosting prestigious events like the James Beard Awards further cements Chicago's reputation as one of the world's premier culinary destinations, where an incredible food scene and rich cultural diversity come together to create something truly special. We wrap up with Let's ChicaGO, where Joanie and Fabiola highlight some of Chicago's can't-miss summer traditions and seasonal events. This episode features the 21st Annual Chicago Duck Derby, the historic Bud Billiken Parade, the Ravinia Festival outdoor concert series, the spectacular Chicago Air and Water Show, and Northalsted Market Days, making it the perfect time to experience the energy, culture, and community that define summer in Chicago. Follow Along on Instagram: Choose Chicago: https://www.instagram.com/choosechicago All For the Love of Chicago: https://www.instagram.com/allfortheloveofchicago Visit choosechicago.com for more information, and be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Relationship To Table: Chicago's Rich Culinary Scene with James Beard Winner Chef Jake Potashnick

  6. Jul 16

    The Sports Mecca of America: Inside Chicago's Biggest Moment for Women's Sports

    Welcome back to another episode of All For the Love of Chicago, the podcast where we spotlight the people, experiences, and unforgettable moments that continue to shape the spirit of Chicago. We kick things off with “The Deep Dish” as Lisa welcomes Clarissa Flores as guest co-host while Kristen is away. Lisa and Clarissa discuss her journey from competing as a Division I student-athlete at Northwestern University to building a successful career in Chicago's hospitality industry. As Director of Operations at TAO Hospitality Group Chicago, Clarissa has helped oversee one of the city's premier entertainment destinations, but her passion for sports and her hometown inspired her latest venture: Level Sporting Club. She shares how the new Wrigleyville hotspot is creating a dedicated home for women's sports fans while celebrating Chicago's thriving and rapidly growing women's sports community. In our featured segment, “We're Lovin' It,” Lisa and Clarissa are joined by Nadia Rawlinson, Co-Owner and Operating Chairman of the Chicago Sky and Co-Chair of the Chicago All-Star 2026 Host Committee. Nadia shares the excitement surrounding the upcoming AT&T WNBA All-Star festivities as Chicago prepares to welcome the basketball world, including celebrations at the brand-new Obama Presidential Center. She also discusses the Line 'Em Up initiative, which is helping inspire the next generation of girls through greater access to basketball across Chicago, and reflects on the incredible growth and momentum behind women's sports. Plus, Nadia shares a memorable story about joining fellow Chicago civic leaders on a special visit to the Vatican, where they had the opportunity to meet Chicago-born Pope Leo XIV. We wrap up with Let's ChicaGO, where Joanie and Fabiola highlight some of Chicago's favorite summer traditions and can't-miss seasonal events. This episode features a stop at the iconic Rainbow Cone, the uplifting sounds of the Chicago Gospel Music Festival, and a look at beloved neighborhood celebrations, including the Chinatown Summer Fair, Wicker Park Fest, and Fiesta del Sol, making it the perfect time to experience the energy, culture, and community that define summer in Chicago. WNBA All-Star Festivities: https://www.wnba.com/allstar/2026 Follow Along on Instagram: Choose Chicago: https://www.instagram.com/choosechicago All For the Love of Chicago: https://www.instagram.com/allfortheloveofchicago Visit choosechicago.com for more information, and be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    The Sports Mecca of America: Inside Chicago's Biggest Moment for Women's Sports

  7. Jun 25

    Culture Cousins: The People, Festivals & Flavors of Chicago

    Welcome back to another episode of All For the Love of Chicago, the podcast where we spotlight the people, experiences, and unforgettable moments that continue to shape the spirit of Chicago. We kick things off with our “Deep Dish” segment as Kristen returns to the show after a memorable family vacation. She catches Lisa up on her travels before the conversation turns to some of Chicago's biggest recent cultural and culinary moments. The two also tease exciting America 250 celebrations happening across Chicago, including the spectacular fireworks celebration planned by our friends at Navy Pier. Together, they recap their experiences at Chicago Blues Fest, the National Restaurant Association Show, and the James Beard Awards, which returned to their longtime host city of Chicago. Widely recognized as one of the world's premier culinary destinations, Chicago serves as the perfect backdrop for the industry's most prestigious awards, bringing together top chefs, restaurateurs, and food enthusiasts from across the globe. Lisa and Kristen also discuss the incredible energy across the city this summer and why Chicago continues to stand out as a world-class destination for culture, entertainment, and dining. In our featured segment, “We're Lovin' It,” Lisa and Kristen welcome Kenya Merritt, Commissioner of the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), a valued partner that works hand in hand with Choose Chicago throughout the year to bring world-class cultural experiences to residents and visitors alike. Kenya shares how signature events such as Taste of Chicago and Chicago Blues Festival help celebrate the city's rich cultural identity while creating opportunities for communities to come together. She also highlights the incredible programming available at the Chicago Cultural Center, one of the city's most treasured landmarks, which remains free and open to the public year-round. Along the way, Kenya playfully reminds us that we're all simply "culture cousins," connected through the arts, music, food, and experiences that make Chicago such a special place. We wrap up with “Let's ChicaGO,” where Steve returns to fill in for Joanie and joins Fabiola in highlighting some of Chicago's biggest summer events. They preview Windy City Smokeout, July 8–12, featuring top barbecue, country music, and performances by Treaty Oak Revival, Hootie & the Blowfish, and Lainey Wilson. They also spotlight the return of Taste of Chicago, where visitors can experience the city's incredible culinary diversity alongside performances by Beach Bunny, Babyface, and Common. Plus, they discuss the Grant Park Music Festival, a beloved Chicago tradition bringing free world-class performances to Jay Pritzker Pavilion throughout the summer. Follow along on Instagram: Choose Chicago: @choosechicago All For the Love of Chicago: @allfortheloveofchicago Learn More: Choose Chicago America 250: https://www.choosechicago.com/america250/ DCASE & Chicago Cultural Center: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Culture Cousins: The People, Festivals & Flavors of Chicago

  8. Jun 11

    The Friendliest City in the World: Celebrating Pride, Community & Chicago's Welcoming Spirit

    Welcome back to another episode of All For the Love of Chicago, the podcast where we spotlight the people, experiences, and unforgettable moments that continue to shape the spirit of Chicago. We kick things off with a special “Deep Dish” segment as Lisa welcomes Emmy Award-winning anchor and producer Matt Rodrigues as guest co-host while Kristen enjoys some family vacation time. Lisa and Matt pull back the curtain on the world of live television, share stories from NBC Chicago, and some of the craziest assignments Matt has tackled on live TV. The two also discuss what they’re most excited about this summer in Chicago and why Pride Month continues to be one of the city’s most vibrant and beloved celebrations. In our featured segment, “We’re Lovin’ It,” Lisa and Matt are joined by Tracy Baim, award-winning journalist, publisher, author, founder of Windy City Times, and Grand Marshal of the 2026 Chicago Pride Parade. Tracy reflects on her decades documenting Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community, shares how Pride celebrations have evolved over the years, and discusses what has helped make Chicago one of the most welcoming destinations in the world for LGBTQ+ residents and visitors. The conversation also explores must-see Pride Month events, the importance of Chicago’s diverse LGBTQ+ neighborhoods and communities, and what it means to serve as Grand Marshal during a historic moment for the city’s Pride celebrations. We wrap up with “Let’s ChicaGO,” where Steve and Fabiola spotlight some of Chicago’s biggest events and experiences happening throughout June. Highlights include free music and cultural programming in some of the city’s most iconic public spaces, Andersonville’s beloved Midsommarfest celebrating community, local businesses, food, and live entertainment, the return of the James Beard Awards and its exciting lineup of culinary events, and Tuesdays on the Terrace, a free outdoor series blending live music, contemporary art, and community gathering in the heart of downtown. Follow along on Instagram: Choose Chicago: @choosechicago All For the Love of Chicago: @allfortheloveofchicago Learn more about the Gerber/Hart LGBTQ+ Library & Archives here: https://www.gerberhart.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    The Friendliest City in the World: Celebrating Pride, Community & Chicago's Welcoming Spirit
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What makes Chicago one of the greatest cities in the world? The people who call it home. All For the Love of Chicago dives into the neighborhoods, creators, and changemakers who make this city what it is. Produced and hosted by Choose Chicago — your official guide to the city. Visit choosechicago.com for more, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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