The Fran Spielman Show Podcast

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Craig Dellimore, now retired City Hall reporter for WBBM News Radio 780. Craig reflects on his 25-year career covering Chicago politics, sharing his experiences from growing up in Jamaica, Queens, to his time working as a copy boy at The New York Times. He also recalls his memories of significant events, such as Harold Washington's rise to mayor of Chicago and his harrowing experience during a police shooting in Harlem. Craig discusses his contributions to journalism, his pride in mentoring young reporters, and his thoughts on the changing political landscape.

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In a special Father's Day edition, Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman is joined by three notable Chicagoans - Mayor Brandon Johnson, Rahm Emanuel, and Congressman Chuy Garcia - to discuss their fathers and how their relationships with them have shaped their own journeys in fatherhood.

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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.

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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 discusses ongoing projects, including the Wrigley Field security plan. He also touches on broader civic issues, such as the sub-minimum wage for tipped workers, short-term rental transparency, and upcoming budget challenges for the city.

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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 President Trump's tariffs affecting Canadian tourism. Despite these challenges, Reynolds highlights Chicago's recent record-breaking hotel occupancy and the city's strong reliance on domestic visitation. She emphasizes the need for increased investment in marketing Chicago internationally and suggests leveraging social media and tech innovations. The discussion also covers recovery strategies post-COVID, local staycation initiatives, and a controversial tourism improvement district proposal to boost Choose Chicago’s budget. Reynolds outlines her vision for maintaining momentum amid economic uncertainties and enhancing Chicago’s appeal through diversified, high-return events.

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