Best Fran And Carlo Podcasts (2025)

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: All your UK questions answered. 43:46

11d ago43:46

43:46

In this week's episode, Fran breaks down ALL you need to know from the UK perspective regarding World's Toughest Mudder 2025. She'll tell you what to expect regarding the weather, she'll give you tips on what gear to bring (Hint: BRING ALL OF IT), and she'll break down how to drive in the UK when you're used to driving on the opposite side of the r…

1
Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling 31:13

5h ago31:13

31:13

Fran Spielman is joined by Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling for an in-depth and candid conversation. Snelling discusses his journey leading one of the nation’s largest police departments, the challenges of public safety in Chicago, and the strategies behind recent reductions in violent crime. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/priv…

1
Chicago's 44th Ward: Challenges, Changes, and Collaborations with Alderman Bennett Lawson 44:03

8d ago44:03

44:03

In this episode, Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman converses with Alderman Bennett Lawson of Chicago's 44th Ward, covering a range of topics including signs at Wrigley Field, public safety plans, small business challenges, and legislative achievements. Lawson shares insights from his tenure, learning from former Alderman Tom Tunney, and di…

1
Challenges in Navigating Noncompete Agreements and Protecting IP in the Workplace with Fran Haas 43:06

7d ago43:06

43:06

In today’s episode, Jeff Harty and Fran Haas explore the complexities of noncompete agreements, noting their effectiveness in protecting IP but also their challenges. Fran highlights varying state laws on noncompetes and provides valuable insights related to structuring noncompete agreements with remote and mobile workforces. In this episode, Jeff …

1
Navigating Tourism Challenges in Chicago with Choose Chicago's New CEO, Kristen Reynolds 42:27

15d ago42:27

42:27

In this episode, Fran Spielman sits down with Kristen Reynolds, the new President and CEO of Choose Chicago. They discuss Reynolds' transition from Discover Long Island to leading Chicago's convention and tourism efforts. The conversation addresses the impact of recent world events on tourism, including a tragic incident in Washington DC and former…

1
Hall of Fame right fielder and former Chicago Cub Andre Dawson 39:06

22d ago39:06

39:06

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Hall of Fame right fielder Andre Dawson, discussing various topics from his illustrious career. They talk about his experiences meeting fans, the recent eligibility of Pete Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson for the Hall of Fame, and the evolving nature of baseball. Dawson reflects on his time with the Cubs, his…

1
Mayor Brandon Johnson: Reflections on two years in office 1:05:50

29d ago1:05:50

1:05:50

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Mayor Brandon Johnson as he approaches his midterm anniversary. Joined by WBEZ city government reporter Mariah Woelfel, the discussion covers a variety of topics, including the Mayor’s personal growth, his approach to governance, and the challenges faced in transforming the city of Chicago. Johnson reflects…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: Obstacle Innovation Edition! 45:55

25d ago45:55

45:55

In this week's episode, Fran and Carlo accidentally stumble upon the greatest idea for a new obstacle. For once, their random ramblings turn into something useful! Hopefully "Jack's Door" will be seen on a course some time soon. They also take some time to chat about Carlo's recent trip to Sweden, and his review of the ⁨@toughviking6072⁩ event in G…

1
Challenges and Opportunities in Chicago's Development: A Conversation with Commissioner Ciere Boatright 41:28

1M ago41:28

41:28

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman interviews Chicago's Commissioner of Planning and Development, Ciere Boatright. They discuss the city’s development challenges, including high interest rates, tariffs, and capital constraints. They also touch upon issues like the future of major projects like Invest Southwest, LaSalle Street conversions, a…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: Pick Up Lines Edition! 40:36

1M ago40:36

40:36

Our distracted duo is BACK with another episode chock full of OCR news and other tidbits of fun! This week they share some new info regarding the WTM Friday night Community Dinner, and well as some news regarding requirements surrounding British Obstacle Sports memberships. They take a fun detour and chat a bit about horrible pick-up lines, and wra…

1
General Superintendent and CEO of the Chicago Park District Carlos Ramirez-Rosa 39:54

1M ago39:54

39:54

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman interviews Carlos Ramirez-Rosa, a ten-year veteran Alderman and the new general superintendent and CEO of the Chicago Park District. They discuss a range of topics, including Carlos's ambitious plans for the park district, his rapid learning on the job, and his strategies for enhancing community safety and…

1
Stephen Yang: Navigating China’s Patent Landscape 39:18

1M ago39:18

39:18

Jeff Harty discusses the evolution of China’s patent system with Stephen Yang. The conversation highlights the shift from foreign to Chinese patent filings, now at more than 3 million annually, with 1.6 million invention patent filings in 2023. In this episode, Jeff Harty and Stephen Yang discuss: Patent filing trends in China Types of patent prote…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: World's Toughest Mudder GIVEAWAY ANNOUNCEMENT!! 56:37

2M ago56:37

56:37

Fran and Carlo are ALL over the map in this episode, but one thing that they do (eventually) accomplish...is announcing the winner of last episode's contest. One lucky winner will be getting a FREE entry into World's Toughest Mudder 2025! Did you enter?? It could be YOU! Give 'em a listen and find out!…

1
A Conversation with Filmmaker John Block 37:59

2M ago37:59

37:59

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews John Block, an independent producer and filmmaker from Chicago, about his moving and inspirational film, 'I Will Build This World From Love.' The conversation explores John's upbringing in Chicago, his career highlights at major networks like NBC, and his transition to independent filmmaking. See Privacy Po…

1
The Importance and Future of the USPTO with Drew Hirshfeld 34:04

2M ago34:04

34:04

Today, Jeff Harty and Drew Hirshfeld talk about the potential impact of the DOGE advisory board on the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Their conversation covers how the office is funded and how the USPTO maintains productivity and handles the large backlog of patent applications. They also discuss the impact of the return-to-office executive orde…

1
CTU President Stacy Davis Gates on the new teachers' contract 43:44

2M ago43:44

43:44

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Stacy Davis Gates, President of the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU), discussing the recently approved teachers' contract. The civil war between the Chicago Teachers Union and SEIU has fractured Mayor Brandon Johnson’s progressive union coalition continues—so much so that it endangers Johnson’s political future…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: World's Toughest Mudder Q&A 59:51

2M ago59:51

59:51

This week Fran and Carlo sit down with WTM 2025 Race Directors Kate Wray and Matt Brooke, as they answer all kinds of different questions about what's to be expected at World's Toughest Mudder in the UK this June.By Carlo and Fran

1
Jeffrey Haydon Ravinia Festival CEO discusses renovations and exciting summer lineup 35:07

2M ago35:07

35:07

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman speaks with Jeffrey Haydon, CEO of the Ravinia Festival, about the upcoming $75 million renovation of Ravinia's 36-acre campus in Highland Park. Haydon explains the decision to shorten the concert season to accommodate construction and shares the challenges and logistics of managing the renovation and the …

1
Stephen Kunin: Restoring Patent Rights: Innovation, Legislation, and the Future of IP Protection 39:59

2M ago39:59

39:59

In this episode, Jeff Harty and Stephen Kunin discuss: The RESTORE Act and injunctive relief in patent cases Reforming patent subject matter eligibility through PERA The current landscape of innovation protection How patent protection in the United States stacks up with other countries Key Takeaways: The RESTORE Act aims to modify injunctive relief…

1
Outgoing Chicago Park District CEO Rosa Escareno 35:24

3M ago35:24

35:24

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews soon-to-be former Chicago Park District Superintendent and CEO Rosa Escareno. Escareno discusses her recent resignation, her decision-making process, and the transition to her successor Alderman Carlos Ramirez-Rosa. She reflects on her tenure, achievements, and challenges, including equity in park facilitie…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: The DEATH TO OCR?? Edition 47:42

3M ago47:42

47:42

This week Fran and Carlo tackle the most dreaded question making the rounds....IS OCR DEAD?? Some say yes, some say no. Fran and Carlo offer their like warm takes on that subject and more this week!By Carlo and Fran

1
Anthony Driver, President of the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability 36:21

3M ago36:21

36:21

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman and criminal justice reporter Tom Shuba, welcome Anthony Driver, president of the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability. Driver addresses recent criticisms from Andrea Kirsten, outgoing chief administrator of Chicago's Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA), who resigned amidst…

1
Fran Spielman on 50 Years in Chicago media | The 300th episode 25:13

3M ago25:13

25:13

In a special 300th episode of The Fran Spielman Show, Fran commemorates her 50 years in the news business and 40 years at the Chicago Sun-Times. She shares her experiences as a sports writer in her early days, covering seven Chicago mayors, and breaking major stories. This episode features an insightful interview with Sasha-Ann Simons from WBEZ's R…

1
Chicago Public Media CEO Melissa Bell 46:32

3M ago46:32

46:32

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman sits down with Chicago Public Media CEO Melissa Bell, who shares her path from San Diego roots to media leadership. Inspired by her father's news devotion and transformed by the events of 9/11, Bell recounts her shift from law to journalism, including co-founding Vox Media. Bell tackles journalism's modern…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: The Kitchen Sink Edition! 40:44

3M ago40:44

40:44

Good luck keeping up with Fran and Carlo this week! They venture all over the place from the jump. But they DO manage to share some kind words about the most recent Obstacle Running Adventures episode (https://www.instagram.com/obstaclerunningadventures/) where they talk about the first ever DEKA ATLAS (https://race.spartan.com/en/deka/atlas) that …

1
Oscars Preview with Richard Roeper 33:22

4M ago33:22

33:22

In this episode, Fran Spielman and renowned movie critic Richard Roeper delve into the 2024 Oscars, discussing the ten nominees for Best Picture and various other award categories. They give insights into the quality and appeal of this year's films, highlighting standout performances and direction. They also touch on the impact of the Los Angeles w…

1
Inside Chicago Politics: A Candid Conversation with Dick Mell 40:06

4M ago40:06

40:06

Fran Spielman interviews former Chicago alderman Dick Mell, focusing on recent history-making events in Chicago and Illinois politics. Mike Madigan, former Illinois House Speaker, has been convicted of federal corruption charges and faces significant prison time at 82. Meanwhile, former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich, Mell's son-in-law, received…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: The Jack Goras Edition! 49:24

4M ago49:24

49:24

Never in our lives did we think we'd have an episode with so much Jack Goras content, but HERE WE ARE! This week we share some Community News (including Jack). We've got some Spartan news as well as some big stuff coming from DEKA. We then talk about Jack some more. We also check in on our Super Bowl pics, and Carlo's Champions League predictions. …

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: The P-Word Edition! 49:33

4M ago49:33

49:33

Fran and Carlo are BACK with another hilarious look at the OCR World through their oddly shaded lenses. This week they give a bit of a rundown on the newly announced DEKA Italia Series, as well as recognize a couple members of the community for their recent accomplishments. As always, they manage to delve on topic a lot, and almost find themselves …

1
Sun-Times sports columnist Rick Telander | Super Bowl preview & remembering Virginia McCaskey 38:48

4M ago38:48

38:48

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 Jo…

1
Chicago's Response to Mass Deportation Efforts 36:54

4M ago36:54

36:54

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 discu…

1
Investigative Legacy: A Conversation with Tim Novak 39:35

4M ago39:35

39:35

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 …

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: The BOLD PREDICTION Edition 42:28

4M ago42:28

42:28

Join us this week as our hosts look back fondly on The Mettle Games, and all the festivities that surrounded the weelend in Kuwait! They also check in on how well Fran did at predicting the outcome of American Football playoff games...and the tables get turned on Carlo, as he now has to predict the outcome of upcoming Premier League games! They als…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: The METTLE GAMES Edition 46:41

5M ago46:41

46:41

Join us this week as our hosts preview The Mettle Games! With The OCR Report handling the livestream duties for this event, Fran and Carlo talk about the upcoming race in Kuwait, the OCR Report's coverage, and make some ridiculously misguided race predictions. They also share their new foreign language phrases that they've learned. During the Thoug…

1
Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch Discusses State Challenges and Trump Era Strategies 36:52

5M ago36:52

36:52

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 respon…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: SEASON 2 Kickoff edition! 44:37

5M ago44:37

44:37

Fran and Carlo are BACK! Kicking off Season 2 in style with news about the upcoming Mettle Games in Kuwait, along with some early hype regarding World's Toughest Mudder this June! They go heavy on the adjacent this week, and delve into wonderful ramblings about their favorite nicknames, as well as teachers from their past. This one is sure to keep …

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent Episode 26: SEASON 1 FINALE 53:42

6M ago53:42

53:42

Happy Holidays from Fran and Carlo! This week our titanic twosome say goodbye to Season 1 with a rollicking rampage of fun and games! They talk a bit about all the madness of the Deka World Championships, and then wander off into a sea of Seasonal topics! Lots of laughs in this one, so be sure and stay tuned till the end. Thanks for riding along wi…

1
Chicago news year in review 39:13

6M ago39:13

39:13

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 mismana…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent Episode: Episode 25 The WE GOT JOKES Edition! 50:58

6M ago50:58

50:58

Join us this week as our tenacious tandem takes turns telling some of the dumbest jokes that they know! This episode is heavy on the ADJACENT, but they still manage to update you on what went down at the Dubai World Obstacle Championships as well as Hyrox Anaheim! There's some really fun tangents in this one, so be sure to listen all the way throug…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: Episode 24 The Kitchen Sink Edition! 46:06

6M ago46:06

46:06

This week our delightful duo cover a wide array of subjects! While they manage to chat a bit about the Spartan Beast Championships in Abu Dhabi, they also carry on about State Capitals, Wombats, Pygmy Hippos, and other oddities. Carlo shamelessly plugs his soon to be famous "cooking" channel, and we cheer on a member of the Tough Mudder Community a…

1
U.S. Ambassador to Japan and former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel 37:12

6M ago37:12

37:12

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…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: Episode 23 The Michael Jordan Edition! 42:15

6M ago42:15

42:15

This week's episode kicks off with a little Michael Jordan conspiracy theory, and quickly goes downhill from there! We got a couple race results for you, some talk about the upcoming Spartan Beast World Champs in UAE, and then some food talk! Lots of fun this week! As always, come for the news.....and stay for some laughs!…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent: Episode 22: Worlds Toughest Mudder Recap Edition 57:58

7M ago57:58

57:58

Join us this week as Fran and Carlo share their thoughts on ALL THINGS Worlds Toughest Mudder! The highlights, the low lights, the things that made them laugh, the things that made them cry (okay, not really)...but really! Lots to cover in this episode about all the amazing experiences they had while spending the week at their favorte race, and the…

1
Balancing Chicago's Budget: A City Council Perspective with Ald. Matt O’Shea (19th) & Ald. Andre Vasquez (40th) 35:13

7M ago35:13

35:13

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 h…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent Episode 21 | Live from the WTM Community Dinner 51:54

7M ago51:54

51:54

This week was a special episode recorded at the World's Toughest Mudder Community Dinner! Fran and Carlo talk about all the pre race festivities and even manage to wrangle a couple of athletes to come chat with them. They talk with The Ultra OCR Man himself Evan Perperis, Women's elite contender (and show superfan!) Melissa Linden, as well as WTM C…

1
Kennedy Bartley, Chief of External Affairs 37:33

7M ago37:33

37:33

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-focuse…

1
Sun-Times reporters recap the 2024 election results 37:44

7M ago37:44

37:44

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 al…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent Episode 20: Breaking Brunch Edition! 1:06:21

7M ago1:06:21

1:06:21

Join Fran and Carlo this week as they not only get each other (and YOU) SUPER HYPED for World's Toughest Mudder.....but they also share some BREAKING NEWS about the Awards Brunch that you won't wanna miss! Tune in all the way to the end, to ensure that you don't miss it!!By Carlo and Fran

1
Discussing Mayor Johnson's proposed Chicago budget | Ald. Anthony Beale (9th) 36:11

7M ago36:11

36:11

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…

1
Fran and Carlo Get OCR Adjacent Episode 19: World's Toughest Mudder Countdown Edition! 49:06

7M ago49:06

49:06

Join Fran and Carlo this week as their excitement builds with World's Toughest Mudder just a couple of weeks away. They share some race updates from Dallas and the UK, and speak on the race to be the 2024 Holy Grail Champion. In this week's Thoughts on Things, they delve into their parent's first dates, and celebrities they'd switch places with if …

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Fran And Carlo Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen