Best Chicago Magazine Podcasts (2025)

1
Taurus FirstClass Talks Hate It Or Love It, Chicago Roots & Building a Legacy | #254 13:27

Play Pause

6d ago13:27

13:27

Taurus FirstClass (Terrance Polk) is a Chicago-based independent singer, songwriter, and rapper who has been making waves since 2021 with a sound rooted in honesty, perseverance, and lived experience. 🔹 Topics Discussed Taurus FirstClass’ journey as an independent artist The meaning behind his stage name and Chicago roots Creating his debut album H…

1
Our 25 Favorite Bites of 2025 22:33

7d ago22:33

22:33

In addition to John and Amy, we hear from our food writers about the dishes they loved most this past year.By Chicago magazine

1
Survitt on Creative Growth, Industry Co-Signs & the Journey to Nova | #257 11:59

1d ago11:59

11:59

In this episode of The Stardom101 Magazine Podcast, recording artist and producer Survitt shares his journey from creating music on a phone to earning professional certification in music production. He discusses his evolving sound, recent industry recognition, and what fans can expect from his upcoming album, Nova. Topics Discussed: Early musical i…

1
Financial Literacy Is a Life Skill: Empowering Communities with Shangra-La Jones | #256 21:45

5d ago21:45

21:45

Shangra-La Jones is an Advisory Board Member of the Colorado Financial Educators Council (COFEC) and an active member of the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) Financial Advocacy Committee. She holds two Master’s degrees—one in Public Financial Management and one in Public Administration—and has over 20 years of experience in the financial…

1
Emprezz S: Finding Her Voice Through Music, Healing & Purpose | #255 9:46

6d ago9:46

9:46

Emprezz S is an independent American recording artist with Caribbean roots from the Bahamas. Her sound blends R&B, love music, elements of rap, and country influences. After surviving a life-threatening medical journey that included a liver transplant, Emprezz S turned to music as a form of healing and self-expression. Today, her music reaches audi…

1
#714 - JaQuavious Harris: A Road to the Trials Shining Star 1:08:04

2d ago1:08:04

1:08:04

This episode is a replay of a recent episode of Road to the Trials - Season Four. As you'll hear, it's an extremely powerful and inspirational look at one of the many runners who are shining their light under the national running radar. Lindsey Hein and Peter Bromka sit down with JaQuavious Harris for one of their first post-race interviews from th…

1
Teresa Busby Shares Her Healing Journey After Loss on The Stardom101 Magazine Podcast | #253 18:08

7d ago18:08

18:08

Teresa Busby is an author from Sumner, Mississippi, currently residing in Southaven, Mississippi. She is a devoted mother of three and a woman of faith whose life was forever changed after losing her son in a tragic train accident in 2008. Through her writing and professional work in social services, Teresa seeks to bring comfort, understanding, an…

1
Cloak The Scribe Breaks Down “Man Listen,” Music Business & Chicago Roots on SMP | #252 19:45

7d ago19:45

19:45

Chicago-born emcee Cloak The Scribe joins The Stardom101 Magazine Podcast for a raw and insightful conversation about artistry, hustle, and longevity in hip hop. Inspired by the late Tupac Shakur, Cloak shares how hearing “So Many Tears” at just 10 years old pushed him to pick up a pen and pursue lyricism with purpose. He reflects on his rise throu…

1
From Poverty to Purpose: Victoria Carrera on Boxing, Faith & Building The Boxing Grind | #251 33:59

13d ago33:59

33:59

In this impactful episode of The Stardom101 Magazine Podcast, we sit down with Victoria Carrera — author, fitness trainer, nurse, humanitarian, and founder of The Boxing Grind. Victoria opens up about her early life, growing up in poverty with parents battling addiction, and how discovering boxing at the age of 16 became a life-saving turning point…

1
Extending the Human Lifespan 17:04

10d ago17:04

17:04

The longest living human ever recorded made it to 122 years old. Is that age a fantasy for most, or an increasingly realistic possibility? In this episode, we explore the ethics of aging, impacts on aging, and what the future may hold — from research on biological vs. chronological age, to risk factors in our control. Guest: Douglas Vaughn, MD, car…

1
#713 - Stephanie Dyer: Going for 70 Marathons by 70 and Getting Faster Along the Way 50:28

17d ago50:28

50:28

Stephanie Dyer picked up running at college after watching the Boston Marathon and she has held it close over since. Now, over 30 years later, Stephanie is still cranking out PR's at her favorite distance and aiming for 70 marathons by the age of 70. Incredible! In this episode she talks about building consistency, getting faster with age, finding …

1
#712 - Kristin Johnson: Running 2:53 and Smashing the 3:00 Barrier 32:58

20d ago32:58

32:58

Kristin Johnson returns to the show for the second time in 2025 after ripping off another seven minute PR with a 2:53 at the Indy Monumental Marathon. Kristin talks about how she's gone from 3:59 to 2:53 in her favorite distance, the changes that were required, and how she doubled-down on what worked. Sponsors ASICS - Explore the METASPEED Edge and…

1
John's Favorite Fries and Where to Eat at Chicago Airports 15:54

24d ago15:54

15:54

John breaks down what makes a great fry and where to find them. Amy takes us on a quick tour of where to eat at Midway and O'Hare airports.By Chicago magazine

1
#711 - "How Can I Run Like I Used To?" Part 2: Setting Yourself Up for Success 21:16

1M ago21:16

21:16

In this episode of the Rambling Runner podcast, I continue my "How Can I Run Like I Used To?" mini-series. When we restart our running journey we are usually filled with excitement and vigor. That is wonderful! However, we need to balance those emotions with a plan of attack that allows us to build a foundation, identify problem areas we can addres…

1
How to Build a Chicago-Style Thanksgiving 18:47

1M ago18:47

18:47

Writer Chandra Ram joins John and Amy to discuss how to add local flavor to the big meal.By Chicago magazine

1
Coping with News Overwhelm 28:20

1M ago28:20

28:20

What makes people vulnerable to news overwhelm? How can we stay grounded amidst the media chaos — and avoid polarization? Chicago Health contributor Dan Dean talks with media researchers about medical misinformation and disinformation, and how to protect your mental health during a stressful news cycle. Guests: Stephanie Lynn Edgerly, PhD, Professo…

1
#710 - "How Can I Run Like I Used To?" Part 1: Mentality and Attitude 19:57

1M ago19:57

19:57

In this episode of the Rambling Runner podcast, I delve into the challenges and mindset required to regain peak fitness after a significant time away from running. I emphasize the importance of a long-term commitment, adopting a beginner's mindset, and the need for self-compassion and realistic goal setting. I share personal insights and strategies…

1
#709 - Rachel Schilkowsky: Juggling Winning, Family, Work, and a Desire to More 59:41

2M ago59:41

59:41

In this episode, I sit down with Rachel Schilkowsky to dive into her recent win at the Hartford Marathon, her impressive early morning training schedule, and the challenges she's faced. We discuss her performance at Hartford, how/why a PR can be gratifying yet still feel disappointing, and the crucial role of fueling during races. Rachel opens up a…

1
Chicago's Hottest Bistro & Two Great New Pizza Spots 22:08

2M ago22:08

22:08

John and Amy discuss Creepies, the new French Midwestern bistro from the Elske team, along with two tavern-style pizza places making waves.By Chicago magazine

1
#708 - Heidi Peoples: Teacher and Mother of 4 Takes First in the 45-49 Age Group at Chicago Marathon 35:20

2M ago35:20

35:20

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Heidi Peoples, a remarkable runner and multiple time Olympic Trials qualifier who recently finished first in her 45-49 age group at the Chicago Marathon. We delved into her journey from being a high school softball player to a marathon runner, her experiences balancing life as a teacher and a mot…

1
Ranking Our Favorite Steakhouses 16:49

2M ago16:49

16:49

John and Amy discuss their top five Chicago steakhouses, and what they say about the scene right now. For the full list, head to chicagomag.com.By Chicago magazine

1
#707 - Ashley Mateo: The Creation and Effect of RUNHER Magazine 45:32

2M ago45:32

45:32

In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Ashley Mateo about her new venture, RUNHER Magazine. We delve into the inspiration behind the magazine, the challenges of launching a print publication in a digital age, and the importance of storytelling in women's running. Ashley shares her journey from frustration with the male-dominated medi…

1
#706 - Lauren Floris: A College Coach Takes on a Moonshot Goal 40:15

3M ago40:15

40:15

In this episode, I sit down with Lauren Floris, head coach at Pepperdine University, to explore her journey in balancing coaching, family, and personal running goals. Lauren shares her ambitions to set personal records from the mile to the marathon and discusses the challenges and strategies involved in training, fueling, and maintaining motivation…

1
A Few of Our Favorite Meals Lately 25:50

3M ago25:50

25:50

John and Amy discuss some of the best places they've eaten recently, and chat about what they're looking forward to eating and drinking this fall (John's in a big pie-making phase).By Chicago magazine

1
#705 - Brodie Sharpe: Unlocking Running Potential with Strength Work 42:57

3M ago42:57

42:57

In this episode, I dive into the importance of strength training for runners with Brodie Sharpe. We explore how strength training can enhance running performance and discuss the balance between injury prevention and performance improvement. Brodie shares insights from research and personal experience, emphasizing the role of strength training in im…

1
New Twists on Old Fashioneds 18:56

3M ago18:56

18:56

Amy describes how Chicago is adopting the Wisconsin old fashioned. Plus, John discusses his review of the flashy new steakhouse in town, the Alston.By Chicago magazine

1
#704 - Charlie Watson: Detailing Sydney, the Newest Marathon Major, and Running 20 Minutes Faster Than Expected 46:49

3M ago46:49

46:49

Charlie Watson shares her exhilarating experience at the Sydney Marathon, highlighting her unique racing strategy that led to a surprisingly fast finish. She discusses the importance of mindset, strength training, and nutrition in her preparation, and how letting go of expectations allowed her to enjoy the race and perform beyond her goals. Charlie…

1
#703 - Racing Mindset Masterclass with Molly Huddle 26:40

4M ago26:40

26:40

In this motivating conversation, Molly Huddle shares how she cultivated a racing mindset that helped her become one of the fiercest racers, and best runners, of her generation. Sponsors ASICS - Check-out the new METASPEED Edge and Sky Tokyo along with the newly released Megablast and Sonicblast at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.asics.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠…

1
Where We Eat in Bucktown 22:29

4M ago22:29

22:29

We're headed to John's neighborhood to find where he grabs a drink, a burger, Thai food, and more. We also learn about what new restaurants are coming to Bucktown soon.By Chicago magazine

1
The Stardom101 Magazine Podcast w/ Bria Cheri | Episode 250 15:15

4M ago15:15

15:15

Bria Cheri on the release of her new song is called "Boy Toy", most anticipated debut album, upcoming shows & much more. CONNECT AND FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/briacheri_/?hl=en Twitter https://twitter.com/BriaCheri_/status/1863324911466328075 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_zbYlh2X7FYd6GS6E1lFtg rG02…

1
#702 - Hillary Allen: Returning From One of the Worst Running Injuries Ever to Qualify for the World Championships 51:57

4M ago51:57

51:57

In this episode, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with one of my running heroes, Hillary Allen. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit. From a life-threatening fall to becoming a world-class athlete again and qualifying for the World Championships, Hillary's journey is nothing short of inspiring…

1
#701 - Season Four of Road to the Trials: Three Hosts, Every Single Qualifier, One Big Goal 30:10

4M ago30:10

30:10

Welcome to Season Four of Road to the Trials! This will be the most epic season yet as we look to interview every qualifier to the 2028 Olympic Marathon Trials in Los Angeles as well as plenty of industry professionals along the way. Our expanded goal is matched by our expanding team! We now have three co-hosts - Matt Chittim, Lindsey Hein, and Pet…

1
#700 - Coach's Corner with Ruth Atkinson: Planning and Executing Long Runs for 4:30+ Marathoners 36:26

4M ago36:26

36:26

In this Coach's Corner episode, Ruth Atkinson from McKirdy Trained talks about how she plans long runs for runners who run the marathon in 4:30 or slower. This is a question we get all the time via DM's and email and we were excited to talk it out. Often times runners in this group assume that they need to run a 20 miler during marathon training to…

1
Where We Go for Korean Food in the Chicago Area 17:05

4M ago17:05

17:05

After diving into his review of Mister Tiger, the new West Town Korean restaurant, John gives us his rundown of where to go in Chicago and the suburbs for Korean barbecue, pochas, noraebang, and more. Plus, Amy gives us the scoop on a fantastic steakhouse dessert.By Chicago magazine

1
#699 - Racing Mindset Masterclass with Laura Thweatt 48:49

4M ago48:49

48:49

In this engaging conversation, Laura Thweatt shares how she was able to develop a mindset for race day that helped propel her to the top of the sport. She discusses the evolution of her mindset throughout her athletic career, particularly focusing on the mental preparation required for her experiences at the Olympic Trials, the challenges faced dur…

1
#698 - Karen Howe: Parenting/Guiding Teenagers Who Share Your Passion for Running 40:06

5M ago40:06

40:06

In this episode, I sit down with Karen Howe to explore the intricate balance of parenting and nurturing a passion for running. As a mother of two teenagers, Karen shares her journey from a non-runner to a marathon enthusiast and how/if her love for the sport has influenced her children, and how she tries to nurture that passion in them in a sustain…

1
#697 - Maurice Lowman: Reflections on the End of a 3,844 Day Run Streak 38:47

5M ago38:47

38:47

Join us as we welcome back Maurice Lowman, also known as the Marathon Panda, to discuss the emotional and transformative journey of ending his 3,488-day run streak. Maurice shares insights on how running intertwined with his sobriety journey, the challenges of letting go, and the new chapter he's embracing with gratitude and growth. Key Highlights:…

1
Our Mid-Year Check-in on New Openings 21:06

5M ago21:06

21:06

John and Amy talk about the restaurants they're most excited about from the first half of 2025. Plus: Amy's tips on where to eat if you're stuck at Midway Airport.By Chicago magazine

1
The Stardom101 Magazine Podcast w/ Crystal Alessandra | Episode 249 15:44

5M ago15:44

15:44

Crystal Alessandra on navigating the workplace during the loss of a loved one, relaunching her children's book "My Nanny is The Best", expansion of her brand with new products & much more. CONNECT AND FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/crystal_alessandra FOR PODCAST SPONSORSHIPS: Submit Ad Inquiries to: https://form.jot…

1
The Stardom101 Magazine Podcast w/ Al Laye | Episode 248 15:25

5M ago15:25

15:25

Al Laye on his latest single, upcoming movies, 2026 tour, new EP, Nubian God Entertainment LLC & much more. CONNECT AND FOLLOW HIS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allayemusic FOR PODCAST SPONSORSHIPS: Submit Ad Inquiries to: https://form.jotform.com/221666947196167 Ready to set up your interview and become a guest on this show?…

1
The Stardom101 Magazine Podcast w/ Mr.V.Banks | Episode 247 12:59

5M ago12:59

12:59

Mr.V.Banks on his new Album called Demented Wayz, mixtape, upcoming projects, Nothing Except Money Management LLC & much more. CONNECT AND FOLLOW HIS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1BVTCq3EjM/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mr.v.banks/profilecard/?igsh=MXRoYXl6ZjQwcWFjZg== Twitter https://www.twitter.com/veebanks YouTube htt…

1
Creating Lasting Memories: Featuring Rob Glaser of Virtual Time Capsule 16:20

5M ago16:20

16:20

Today we have a very special guest, Rob Glaser the Owner of Virtual Time Capsule located in Schaumburg, IL. Rob Glaser is the owner of Virtual Time Capsule. Virtual Time Capsule is a company that preserves memories for tears to come. It is a platform that allows you to send your life stories to anyone at a later date in the future. Simply upload th…

1
#696 - John Raneri: Transitioning from 2:12 Marathoner to the Trails 51:30

5M ago51:30

51:30

In today's episode we are joined by elite marathoner John Raneri to discuss his transition from road racing to trail running. In this episode, John shares his experiences, challenges, and triumphs as he navigates the world of trail and ultra running. From his initial interest in trail running to his recent races, John provides insights into his tra…

1
#695 - Miki Sawada: From Professional Concert Halls to Conquering the Western States 100 1:01:56

5M ago1:01:56

1:01:56

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Miki Sawada, a professional classical pianist and dedicated amateur ultra-runner. Discover how Miki balances her passion for music with her love for running, and how she uses both to connect with communities across the country. From her unique Gather Hear Tour to conquering the Western States 100, Mi…

1
Reviewing While High Makes John a Better Critic 24:01

5M ago24:01

24:01

John explains how adding a little THC to his dining experience helps him de-stress and focus on the moment. Plus, Amy describes the perfect Filipino food crawl.By Chicago magazine

1
#694 - Justin Fiske: Co-American Masters Record in the Road Mile and a 2:28 Marathon After a 15-Year Hiatus 41:37

5M ago41:37

41:37

Join us as we dive into the inspiring story of Justin Fiske, the newly crowned co-American record holder in the masters road mile. After a 15-year hiatus from running, Justin shares how he reignited his passion during the pandemic, leading to a sub-2:30 and other electric performances . Discover his journey from casual 5Ks to tying the American rec…

1
The Stardom101 Magazine Podcast w/ Petty Murphy | Episode 246 22:41

5M ago22:41

22:41

Petty Murphy on his upcoming movie projects, comedy shows, the return of his podcast "The Petty Murphy Project" & much more. CONNECT AND FOLLOW HIS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Website https://www.pettymurphyproductions.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/thepettymurphyproject Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thepettymurphyproject YouTube https://www.yout…

1
The Stardom101 Magazine Podcast w/ Dr. Erika L. Mcknight | Episode 245 25:41

5M ago25:41

25:41

Dr. Erika L. Mcknight on ELM School of Real Estate, ELM Realty, Building Generational Wealth & much more. CONNECT AND FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Website https://www.elmschoolofrealestate.com FOR PODCAST SPONSORSHIPS: Submit Ad Inquiries to: https://form.jotform.com/221666947196167 Ready to set up your interview and become a guest on this show? Tex…

1
Where We Eat and Drink in the Burbs 18:07

5M ago18:07

18:07

Gas up the car, we're headed to the suburbs for today's episode. John and Amy talk about the best food and drink outside of the city, including some of John's favorite Japanese restaurants. Plus, we get the lowdown on Cafe Yaya, the new all-day spot in Lincoln Park from the team behind Galit.By Chicago magazine

1
Where is the Human in the AI Loop? Featuring Dirk Vander Noot of Telltales Operations 34:49

6M ago34:49

34:49

On today's episode we decided to switch it up a bit and talk about a topic that is on everybody's minds: Where is the Human in the AI loop? To help us talk about this we brought on an AI expert Dirk Vander Noot who is the owner of Telltales Operations. Dirk Vander Noot is a Fractional COO or the right hand man to vision focused founders and busines…