Episodes
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Actor David Naughton: American Werewolf in London 45th anniversary screening at The Tivoli Theatre on Thursday October 29th; ‘I’m a Pepper, You’re a Pepper’
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with actor and singer David Naughton about the 45th anniversary of the cult classic horror-comedy An American Werewolf in London, the groundbreaking special effects and makeup that brought his terrifying transformation to life, and his iconic Dr Pepper commercials…
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Bill O’Reilly on his new book, ‘Confronting America,’ and the issues shaping our nation
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with bestselling author, journalist and political commentator Bill O’Reilly about his new book, Confronting America: What Has to Change, exploring the challenges facing the nation, the changing American culture, politics, education, family values and personal...
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WTTW’s Chicago Stories explores the 1893 World’s Fair, Chicago’s toy industry, historic skyscrapers and the city’s Irish heritage
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Anna Gardner, executive producer of WTTW’s Chicago Stories, about the acclaimed documentary series and its new season, exploring the fascinating people, places and events that shaped Chicago. From the 1893 World’s Fair and the city’s legendary toy industry to its...
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Micky Dolenz: The Last Surviving Monkee Brings His Legendary Music to the Rialto Square Theatre
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with music legend Micky Dolenz, the last surviving member of The Monkees, about his remarkable six-decade career in music, television and entertainment, the unforgettable hits that defined a generation, his memories of fellow Monkees Davy Jones, Michael Nesmith and...
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Fred Winston: Five decades in Chicago radio, now a Radio Hall of Fame inductee
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier, also Chair of the Museum of Broadcast Communications, welcomed radio legend Fred Winston into the Radio Hall of Fame. They talked about Fred’s influences including Dick Biondi, his time at WLS and in rock radio, and some of his funniest moments on the air
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Mike Rowe: The value of hard work, the skilled trades and the mikeroweWORKS Foundation
TV’s Mike Rowe talks with WGN Radio’s Dave Plier about today’s job market, the growing demand for skilled trades, the value of hard work, and the powerful impact of his mikeroweWORKS Foundation.
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Boldly going with William Shatner: Chicago’s Riot Fest, ‘The Sixty-Year Mission: How Star Trek Changed Television And The World’ documentary
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with the legendary William Shatner, who recently turned 95, about his two upcoming Chicago performances during Riot Fest weekend, his new heavy metal album, 60 years of Star Trek, and his upcoming documentary, “The Sixty-Year Mission: How Star Trek Changed Television...
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The power and impact of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA): Changing lives, creating hope
Dr. Sharon Hesterlee, President and CEO of the Muscular Dystrophy Association, talks with WGN Radio’s Dave Plier about the impact of MDA today, advances in research and treatment, support for individuals and families living with neuromuscular diseases, and the organization’s enduring legacy,...
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This is History: The 60th Anniversary of The Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon, Pullman and the Labor Movement
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier and Dave Schwan present their weekly segment, This Is History, looking back at Chicago’s Pullman Strike and its impact on the American labor movement and the establishment of Labor Day, plus the 60th anniversary of the Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon.
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The Moody Blues’ Justin Hayward: LIVE at the Des Plaines and Arcada Theatres September 19 & 20
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier shares his conversation with music legend Justin Hayward of The Moody Blues during Bob’s Record Collection, celebrating the 40th anniversary of “Your Wildest Dreams,” the timeless music of The Moody Blues, and Hayward’s upcoming Chicago-area appearances. For tickets and…
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Kicking off tailgating season with Kevin Kolman of Weber Grill
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks backyard autumn grilling, tailgating tips, and more with Weber Ambassador Kevin Kolman.
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‘Watching TV’ event at The Museum of Broadcast Communications, Saturday September 19th at Noon
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier speaks to author Wally Podrazik about his book Watching TV and the upcoming event at the Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago, on Saturday, September 19th at Noon. WGN Radio listeners get half off admission. Use promo code: WGN RADIO HALF OFF at museum.tv for tickets.
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Men at Work’s Colin Hay: Coming to Chicago with stories behind their biggest hits
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Colin Hay, the legendary singer-songwriter and voice of Men at Work, about his remarkable musical journey, the band’s meteoric rise to international fame, and the timeless songs that defined a generation, including “Down Under,” “Who Can It Be Now?”, and...
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What’s in a name? The stories behind Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier welcomes retired WGN newsman Roger Badesch for a fascinating look at the history and origins of Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods, discovering the stories behind the names, the people, cultures, and events that shaped each community, and how Chicago’s rich neighborhood heritage...
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Brhett Vickery returns: Motherhood and The WGN Morning News
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier welcomes WGN Morning News anchor and traffic reporter Brhett Vickery for a heartfelt conversation about returning to work after maternity leave. Brhett shares the joys and challenges of balancing new motherhood with the demands of early morning television, reflects on the...
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Garry Meier: The importance of getting out and connecting, things our kids and grandkids will never experience
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Chicago radio legend Garry Meier about the importance of getting out and connecting with others in an increasingly isolated world. As younger generations spend more time online and less time socializing face-to-face, Meier shares why real conversations,...
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Front Row Experiences Auction Benefiting the Museum of Broadcast Communications
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Tom Carballo of Detroit’s Mojo in the Morning and a newly elected member of the Museum of Broadcast Communications Board of Directors about the Museum’s Front Row Experiences Charity Auction, featuring more than 50 once-in-a-lifetime opportunities with some of…
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Pat McGann brings the laughs from Zanies Rosemont to The Wynn Las Vegas with Sebastian Maniscalco
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with comedian and Chicago native Pat McGann about making the most of summer, family vacations with his kids, time with his parents, and life on the road as one of America’s top touring comedians. They also discuss Pat’s upcoming performance at Zanies Rosemont on…
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Experience The McHenry Outdoor Drive-In: July 4th Chicago Cubs Baseball, Classic Film ‘The Sandlot’ & Fireworks!
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier welcomes Scott Dehn, proprietor of the McHenry Outdoor Theater, the only drive in movie theater in Chicagoland, to discuss the nostalgia of the drive in experience, from classic concession stand favorites and retro intermission commercials to why watching movies under the...
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From the archives: Dave Plier talks with legendary TV director James Burrows
From June, 2022: WGN Radio’s Dave Plier welcomes TV icon James Burrows to talk about his book: ‘Directed by James Burrows: Five Decades of Stories from the Legendary Director of Taxi, Cheers, Frasier, Friends, Will & Grace, and More’. All this from the man who helped launch the careers of Ted...
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Billy Corgan Unplugged: Podcasting, Lollapalooza & America’s 250th
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Chicago’s own Billy Corgan about an exciting year ahead for The Smashing Pumpkins, including the band’s summer and fall tour, kicking things off with the America 250 celebration in Los Angeles, headlining Lollapalooza, and returning home for a major show at...
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A Father’s Day Tribute: America’s Favorite TV Dads
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier and Watching TV co-author Walter Podrazik celebrate television’s most memorable dads, spanning more than seven decades of TV history. From the wise and dependable fathers of the 1950s like Jim Anderson (Antenna TV’s Father Knows Best) and Ward Cleaver (Leave It to Beaver)…
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Chicago’s Own Joe Mantegna: Serving military families of the fallen, first responders, veterans and the Memorial Day concert
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Chicago’s own Joe Mantegna on Memorial Day to honor our fallen, a recap of the annual National Memorial Day concert, some of the other celebrities involved, how he got involved with the veteran community, plus a discussion about the Cubs, and more.
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Radio Legend Garry Meier: Venerating our fallen with memories of WWII by his father
Radio Hall of Famer Garry Meier joins WGN Radio’s Dave Plier to talk about the real meaning of Memorial Day, celebrating his father, Frank Meier, and his combat experiences serving in World War II. Visit Garrymeier.com for more.
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The true meaning of Memorial Day
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier and Dave Schwan talk about the true meaning of Memorial Day, which originated as ‘Decoration Day’ after the Civil War and was officially signed into law in 1967. Plus, Dave shares President Ronald Reagan’s moving Memorial Day speech from 1984.
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Backyard Grilling: The Ultimate Summer BBQ with Weber
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Weber’s Kevin Kolman about getting your grill into gear this summer, recipes for the perfect burger, steaks, ribs, breakfast, desserts, and more! Visit Weber.com for more.
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Chicagoland’s Santa’s Village celebrates 67 years of summer fun
Santa’s Village Amusement & Water Park proprietor Jason Sierpien joins WGN Radio’s Dave Plier to celebrate the park’s 67th season and reflect on the rich history of the beloved family attraction that first opened in 1959. The conversation explores the evolution of the park, including its classic...
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Celebrating Don Rickles at 100: Dave Plier Shares Rare Vegas Interview and Tributes
To honor a promise to “keep his name alive,” WGN Radio’s Dave Plier celebrates the legacy of the late Don Rickles on what would have been his 100th birthday, sharing a memorable backstage Las Vegas interview with the comedy legend. The special also features bonus conversations with Rickles’...
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Oak Park native Jeff Mauro ‘The Sandwich King’: Food Network, Collab with Lou Malnati’s, Mauro Provisions, City Winery on May 29th!
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier hangs out in studio with Jeff Mauro, “The Sandwich King,” to talk about his journey through food and comedy, his hit shows on Food Network, and his latest venture, Mauro Provisions, a new collaboration with Lou Malnati’s. Jeff also previews his upcoming appearance at City...
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Evolution of Late Night Television Exhibit at The Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago
WGN Radio and the Museum of Broadcast Communications CEO speaks with Justin Kulvsek, longtime senior consultant with the museum, about the new Evolution of Late Night Television exhibit, Johnny Carson: The Centennial, and Five Decades of The Loop. They also discuss exciting new additions…
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Eve Plumb: Happiness Included, Jan Brady & Beyond
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with The Brady Bunch’s Eve Plumb about her new book, Happiness Included: Jan Brady and Beyond. She shares behind-the-scenes stories from the iconic series and reflects on her life and career beyond her role as the famous middle sister.
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Steve Darnall on Marvels: The Novelization, Nostalgia Digest Spring Edition and the Legacy of Orson Welles
Steve Darnall of Nostalgia Digest Magazine talks about the Spring edition, including features on Orson Welles and the Chicago Cubs’ College of Coaches, as well as his upcoming novel, Marvels: The Novelization. Visit nostalgiadigest.com for more!
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Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, discusses Easter, potential visit of Pope Leo XIV, and his message of peace
Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, joins WGN Radio’s Dave Plier to discuss all things Easter weekend. From the Triduum, including Easter Sunday, to the potential visit of Chicago’s own Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Cupich offers insights on attending Mass with family and the rising numbers of...
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Rick Springfield discusses the origins of ‘Jessie’s Girl,’ his iconic TV roles, and his journey in music
80s rock icon and Grammy award-winning artist Rick Springfield sits down with WGN Radio’s Dave Plier to talk about the origins of his music career, what inspired him to pick up the guitar, and the story behind his smash hit “Jessie’s Girl.” Rick also reflects on his iconic role as Dr. Noah Drake…
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Craig Ferguson unscripted: Comedy, late night, and CW’s Scrabble
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier sits down with comedian and late-night legend Craig Ferguson to discuss his journey from punk rock bands and theater to comedy, The Drew Carey Show, and The Late Late Show. They also dive into his love of game shows, as Craig brings his signature humor to Scrabble on The…
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From 2012: Dave Plier visits with Orion Samuelson
In December 2012, Dave Plier visited with Orion Samuelson to discuss Orion’s career and book, You Can’t Dream Big Enough.
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Music icon Smokey Robinson brings the sound of Motown back to Chicago
Music legend Smokey Robinson, member of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame, Kennedy Center Honors recipient, winner of the National Medal of Arts, a Grammys Living Legend Award, including an Honorary Doctorate from Howard University, helped shaped the sound of Motown...
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Improv icon Colin Mochrie from ‘Whose Line Is It Anyway?’ LIVE at the Genesee Theatre
Actor and improvisational comedian previously known for his work on “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” Colin Mochrie joins WGN Radio’s Dave Plier on the show to talk about the art of improvisation. Listen in while Colin gives listeners an inside look into what fans can expect if they come out to see…
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WGN-TV’s Mike Toomey, Ana Beleval and Jeff Hoover headline a Night of Comedy at The Tivoli Theater on Thursday March 12th!
Mike Toomey and Ana Belaval from the WGN Morning News join WGN Radio’s Dave Plier to talk about their upcoming night of comedy happening, hosted by WGN-TV’s Jeff Hoover on Thursday, March 12th at Classic Cinemas Tivoli. Get tickets at classiccinemas.com. [audio...
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Comedian George Lopez: Valentine’s Day laughs at The Genesee – Sitcom stories, late-night TV, and the joy of being on stage
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier sits down with comedian George Lopez to discuss his first appearance on Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show, his groundbreaking sitcom, the history of Latinos on television, and his experience hosting a late-night talk show. Lopez shares why he’s happiest when he’s on stage,...
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Love, laughs, and plot twists: The rom-com deep dive
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with WGN Radio producer Neal Fischer and tonight’s guest producer Ashley Bihun about Neal’s latest book, “The Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book” exploring the trivia, secrets, and behind-the-scenes stories that make romantic movies irresistible.
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First Look: The biggest commercials of Super Bowl LX
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier and Jeff Rogers of Jeff Rogers Unlimited take an inside look at this year’s Super Bowl commercials — breaking down the record-setting ad spend, the celebrity talent behind the spots, and the strategies brands use to capture the attention of one of television’s largest...
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WGN-TV’s Pat Tomasulo: Big Game preview, Laugh Your Face Off Event – Saturday April 25th
WGN-TV’s Pat Tomasulo shares his thoughts on the Big Game this Sunday, plus a the upcoming ‘Laugh Your Face Off Event’ on Saturday April 25th, benefiting The Facial Pain Research Foundation, to find a cure for trigeminal neuralgia. For tickets, visit LaughYourFaceOff.org.
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The night The Beatles changed America: The Ed Sullivan Show, February 1964
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier shares his conversation with Emmy and Grammy award-winning, producer, director, writer and documentary filmmaker Andrew Solt to talk about the most valued television libraries of all time which he owns: The Ed Sullivan Show and The Beatles first appearance on American...
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Late Night TV legend Jay Leno: The state of TV After Hours, Comedy Influences, The Tonight Show
WGN Radio personality Dave Plier sits down with late-night television legend Jay Leno for an engaging and deeply personal conversation you won’t want to miss. Featured prominently in The Evolution of Late Night Television exhibit, now on display at the Museum of Broadcast Communications in…
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Chicago Bears Super Bowl champion Kevin ‘Butthead’ Butler, radio legend Kevin Matthews and Jim Shorts on Sunday’s big game
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Chicago Bears Super Bowl champion Kevin ‘Butthead’ Butler, radio legend Kevin Matthews, and Jim Shorts about the 1985 Bears’ legendary adventures on the Kevin Matthews Show, the new Loop exhibit at the Museum of Broadcast Communications, and a conversation...
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From ‘Da Bears’ to Conan: Robert Smigel on Comedy, Chicago and Triumph the Insult Comic Dog
Dave Plier shares his conversation with comedy legend Robert Smigel, the creative force behind the “Da Bears” sketch and the voice of Triumph the Insult Comic Dog. They dive into Smigel’s incredible career, from writing sketches on 425 episodes of Saturday Night Live to co-writing films with Adam...
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Reflecting on a Legacy: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier and Dave Schwan reflect on the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as they revisit past conversations with civil rights leader Jesse Jackson and Dr. King’s granddaughter, Yolanda Scott King, highlighting the impact of Dr. King’s work on generations past and present.
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Comedian Erica Rhodes at Zanies Rosemont this weekend!
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier welcomes comedian Erica Rhodes, who went viral last year on the WGN-TV Morning News, to talk about dating, aging, and her appearances at Zanies Rosemont this weekend: TONIGHT at 7pm, Friday and Saturday at 7pm and 9:15pm. You can get $10 OFF the late show on Saturday if you...
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Those We Lost 2025: Rob Reiner, James Lovell, Brian Wilson, Diane Keaton, George Wendt, Ryne Sandberg, Roberta Flack, Charlie Kirk, Sister Jean, more
UIC Adjunct Lecturer and historian Wally Podrazik joins WGN Radio’s Dave Plier, along with Ryan Burrow, Mark Carman and Amanda Czarnecki look back at the notable figures we lost in 2025 including Rob Reiner, James Lovell, Brian Wilson, Diane Keaton, George Wendt, Ryne Sandberg, Roberta Flack,...
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The Dave Plier Podcast from 720 WGN
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