Best Fran And Carlo Podcasts (2025)

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

10d 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
General Superintendent and CEO of the Chicago Park District Carlos Ramirez-Rosa 39:54

29d 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
Navigating Tourism Challenges in Chicago with Choose Chicago's New CEO, Kristen Reynolds 42:27

16h 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

8d 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

14d 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
Challenges and Opportunities in Chicago's Development: A Conversation with Commissioner Ciere Boatright 41:28

21d 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
Counting down to the Journey to Jazz with Brenda Sisane, on The K Jazz Show 21:57

24d ago21:57

21:57

This week on The K Jazz Show, we’re thrilled to be joined by the inimitable Brenda Sisane — broadcaster, cultural curator, creative director, and part of the driving force behind the Journey to Jazz festival. As the festival turns three this year, we take a moment to celebrate its growth, its grounding in pure jazz, and its growing impact from the …

1
Journeying to Jazz with Hilton Schilder on The K Jazz Show 21:46

25d ago21:46

21:46

We are joined by none other than the legendary Hilton Schilder — a man whose music is as layered and soulful as the city he hails from. Born into rhythm, raised by Goema, and armed with a playful spirit including 16 instruments (yes, sixteen!), Hilton is Cape Town’s very own sonic alchemist. From Punk to Classical, Rock to Cape Jazz, his fingerprin…

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

25d 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
Standard Bank Young Artist, Siya Charles on The K Jazz Show 5:59

1M ago5:59

5:59

We’re thrilled to celebrate the 2025 recipients of the Standard Bank Young Artist Awards (SBYA) — an initiative that, for 40 years now, has honored creative excellence and fearless innovation in South African art. Among the six remarkable trailblazers is Siyasanga “Siya” Charles, a Juilliard-trained trombonist whose global career and bold artistic …

1
Introducing the Nomadic Orchestra on The K Jazz Show 13:24

1M ago13:24

13:24

We’re joined by a collective that’s as much about movement as they are about music. With their brass-heavy sound, genre-defying style, and infectious energy, they’ve made waves across South Africa and beyond. They say they play intelligent music… they play dumb music… and they play whatever they want—because you come anyway!…

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

1M 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

1M 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
A Journey to Jazz with Heinrich Frans on The K Jazz Show 29:03

2M ago29:03

29:03

As the sun rises and the melodies of the past, present, and future intertwine, we are thrilled to welcome an artist whose voice has graced some of the world’s most prestigious stages. His journey in music began at the tender age of 11, singing in renowned choirs before evolving into a seasoned vocalist, working alongside legends like Jonathan Butle…

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
Experience Wanda Baloyi on The K Jazz Show 10:48

2M ago10:48

10:48

Every week on The K Jazz Show we keep you plugged in with the latest on the jazz band stands with our feature “The Jozi Jazz Plug” and this week we are excited to have with us Wanda Baloyi who is a dynamic force in the music industry, seamlessly blending Afro-Jazz, Neo-Soul, and House into a signature sound that is both timeless and boundary-pushin…

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
Out of this world with Siya Makuzeni on The K Jazz Show 33:11

2M ago33:11

33:11

“Kofifi FM, you are spending time in the company of The K Jazz Show, Sundays 10;00 to 13:00 and as always we bring you closer to some of the conversations with your favourite jazz musicians. As the Joy of Jazz Festival approaches, one name stands out—Siya Makuzeni. A dynamic force in South African jazz, and she is a trombonist, vocalist, composer, …

1
Outgoing Chicago Park District CEO Rosa Escareno 35:24

2M 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
Heroines of Jazz with Marumo Femme on The K Jazz Show 28:01

2M ago28:01

28:01

The K Jazz Show, is where we celebrate the rhythm, soul, and stories of jazz! Today, we have an electrifying conversation lined up with a dynamic duo who are shaking up the South African jazz scene— Marumo Femme! Known for their deep passion for music and cultural storytelling, these visionary sisters Mamello and Kopano Pule are the masterminds beh…

1
Painting the canvas with Carlo Mombelli on The K Jazz Show 30:49

2M ago30:49

30:49

The K Jazz Show, is where we celebrate the finest in South African jazz, and today, we have the honor of sitting down with one of the true luminaries of the genre—legendary bassist, composer, and educator, Carlo Mombelli. Who has long been at the forefront of musical innovation, pushing the boundaries of sound and storytelling through his deeply ev…

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

2M 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

2M 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
A Sound Like Freedom with Rosa Brunello on The K Jazz Show 27:28

2M ago27:28

27:28

We are in the company of Italian bassist Rosa Brunello, who describes her music as a variety of styles, from avant-garde jazz to experimental soundscapes, she is also the bass player for American jazz vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater and you and I get to sit at her feet and listen to tales of her walk with jazz.…

1
Miz Mantwa talks the 26th Edition of The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival on The K Jazz Show 12:10

2M ago12:10

12:10

We were joined by friend of the The K Jazz Show and producer of The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival to talk about the 2025 Edition and what they have in store for you!By Ngwako Malakalaka

1
A Celebration of Karoo Spirit, Jazz Mastery & 30 Years of Democracy on The K Jazz Show 18:50

2M ago18:50

18:50

A Celebration of Karoo Spirit, Jazz Mastery & 30 Years of Democracy is what will be taking jazz travellers to the Western Cape’s town of Prince Albert this year. Building on the festival’s reputation for embodying the true Karoo spirit of music, the 2025 Journey to Jazz continues to attract a stellar line-up of jazz virtuosos. A key highlight will …

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
Terence Collie in his Elements on The K Jazz Show 28:48

3M ago28:48

28:48

Terrence Collie is a pianist and composer whose refined artistry has cemented him as a vital figure in the UK jazz scene. Known for his expressive touch, deep musicality, and ability to seamlessly blend tradition with contemporary influences, Collie has worked with some of the finest musicians in the industry. His latest project, Elements, is a cap…

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
Remembering Suthukazi Arosi on The K Jazz Show 23:25

3M ago23:25

23:25

This past week, we learned of the passing of Suthukazi Arosi who transitioned at the age of 64. Suthu was a Singer, dancer, actress, and cultural activist born in Cala in the Eastern Cape. Longtime friend and colleague Mark Roth reflects on the life and times of this icon and we also get tributes from Musicians Bab Themba Mkhize, Skipper Tshabalala…

1
Mbizo: A gathering for Johnny Dyani with Adam Zanolini 32:42

3M ago32:42

32:42

Chicagoan Adam Zanolini, is a an ethnomusicologist, multi-instrumentalist, composer, and bandleader whose work embodies the deep and ever-evolving legacy of Black creative music. In a collaboration with the players and composers of the mighty AACM (Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians) and Chimurenga SA Celebrate the music and phil…

1
Oscars Preview with Richard Roeper 33:22

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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
The Southern's Suite, with Sean Mason. 32:04

4M ago32:04

32:04

North Carolina born and New York based Pianist and Composer Sean Mason is our guest. Whose musical journey has taken him from the soulful heart of the South to the bustling streets of New York City, where he’s now a staple in the city’s vibrant jazz scene. He’s had the honor of playing alongside jazz legends, and his story is one of passion, persev…

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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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

5M 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

5M 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

5M 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…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Fran And Carlo Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen