Archives

Chicago Newsroom 2.0
March 6, 2025
In this special live edition of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andrea Zopp and guests analyze Mayor Brandon Johnson’s high-stakes trip to Washington, where he joins mayors from Boston, Denver, and New York City to testify before the U.S. House Oversight Committee. With GOP leaders intensifying their scrutiny of sanctuary cities, the discussion explores the fight for federal funding, the future of immigrant protections, and the broader national impact of this political showdown.
More

Chicago Newsroom 2.0
February 28, 2025
In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andrea Zopp breaks down the Madigan verdict and the latest drama unfolding at City Hall. Joined by Block Club reporter Francia Garcia Hernandez, Cook County Commission on Human Rights Chair Sufyan Sohel, and Just Act Partners Co-Founder Matt Johanson, the panel provides expert analysis on the political and legal implications shaping Chicago’s landscape.
More

Chicago Newsroom 2.0
February 21, 2025
In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andrea Zopp takes a deep dive into efforts to protect the public trust with Chicago Inspector General Deborah Witzburg. She also breaks down the week’s biggest news stories with journalist Brandon Pope and Juatise Gathings, Co-Founder of Just Act Partners. This insightful discussion examines the state of accountability in Chicago and the challenges in ensuring transparency and good governance.
More

Chicago Newsroom 2.0
February 14, 2025
In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andy Zopp leads a discussion on corporate DEI rollbacks, the ongoing CTU-CPS contract negotiations, and Mayor Brandon Johnson’s upcoming trip to Washington, D.C. Roundtable guests Morgan Malone, Francia Garcia Hernandez, and Juatise Gathings provide insights into these critical issues shaping Chicago’s future. Additionally, Andy sits down with 36th Ward Alderman Gilbert Villegas and Metro Edge CEO Craig Huffman to discuss the city’s new Data Residency Ordinance and its potential impact on businesses and residents.
More

Chicago Newsroom 2.0
January 31, 2025
In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, guest host Darrious Hilmon leads a discussion on the Trump administration’s first week in office with roundtable regulars Francia Garcia Hernandez, Ashley Munson, and Sufyan Sohel. The panel examines key policy changes, their potential impact on Chicago, and what lies ahead. Additionally, Darrious sits down for one-on-one conversations with Mark Ishaug, President & CEO of Thresholds, and Jeffery Beckham Jr., CEO of Chicago Scholars and Co-CEO of Reach Pathways, to discuss their work in education, leadership development, and mental health advocacy.
More

Chicago Newsroom 2.0
January 24, 2025
In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andy Zopp leads a critical discussion on Chicago’s downgraded bond rating and the upcoming closure of several Walgreens locations in the city’s most underserved neighborhoods. Roundtable guests Adrienne Samuels Gibbs, Sufyan Sohel, Morgan Malone, and Hugo Balta provide in-depth analysis on the financial and social implications of these developments. Additionally, Andy sits down for a one-on-one conversation with Stephanie Piccirilli, CEO & President of Ignite, to explore the organization’s efforts in supporting youth experiencing homelessness and creating pathways to stability.
More

Chicago Newsroom 2.0
January 17, 2025
In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andy Zopp examines Mayor Brandon Johnson’s relationships with CPS CEO Pedro Martinez and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. Roundtable guests Hugo Balta, Morgan Malone, Ashley Munson, and Sufyan Sohel provide insights into the dynamics of these key political relationships and their implications for Chicago. The episode also features one-on-one interviews with Cook County Commissioner Bill Lowry and urologist Dr. Paul Yonover, who highlights the importance of prostate health and preventative care.
More

Chicago Newsroom 2.0
January 10, 2025
In the winter season premiere of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, guest host Kevin Triskett dives into the precarious state of public education under the incoming presidential administration. Joined by experts including Heather Anichini from The Chicago Public Education Fund, Hal Woods from Kids First Chicago, Stephen McClain from UIC, Joli Robinson from Center on Halsted, and Taquia Hylton from Prairie Hills School District 144, the episode offers a comprehensive discussion on the future of education in Chicago and the challenges educators, students, and communities will face in the coming years.
More

Chicago Newsroom 2.0
January 10, 2025
In this edition of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, guest host Darrious Hilmon leads a roundtable discussion with Juatise Gathings, Dr. Gwendolyn Oglesby-Odom, Kelwin Harris, and Christa Hamilton to reflect on the year in review. The conversation covers the most significant events and developments that have shaped the city’s landscape. Additionally, Darrious speaks with 4th Ward Alderman Lamont Robinson about Chicago’s newly approved budget and sits down with Mike Shaver, CEO of Brightpoint, to discuss the organization’s ongoing work and impact on the community.
More

Chicago Newsroom 2.0
December 18, 2024
In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andy Zopp continues the discussion on Chicago’s ongoing budget turmoil with regulars Morgan Malone, Robin Robinson, and Ashley Munson. The roundtable provides a deeper analysis of the city’s financial challenges and the potential impact on local communities. Additionally, Andy sits down with Courtney Sakai and Michael Takada from the Japanese American Service Committee to discuss the organization’s future plans and how they are supporting the Japanese American community in Chicago.
More