DIBS presented by Chicago History

This week, we sit down with Michael Alter, principal owner of the Chicago Sky, to talk about what it really takes to build a professional sports franchise from the ground up, and why investing in women’s sports is about so much more than the game.From launching the Sky as an expansion team to winning the 2021 WNBA Championship, Michael shares the highs, the challenges, and the moments that made it all worth it. We explore the league's evolution, the explosive growth of women’s basketball, and how the Sky became a cultural force in Chicago and beyond.We also talk about the realities behind the scenes, from building a brand without an NBA counterpart to navigating media narratives to protecting players in the age of social media. And at the core of it all is a bigger mission: creating visibility, opportunity, and inspiration for the next generation of female athletes.In this episode, we cover:The origin story of the Chicago Sky and why Chicago needed a WNBA teamWhat it takes to build a franchise from scratch, including branding, hiring, and early challengesThe 2021 championship run and why it meant more than just a titleHow the WNBA is evolving, from expansion teams to global growthThe dark side of sports: social media, player safety, and online abuseWhy women’s sports are finally getting the attention they’ve always deservedListen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram, Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

This week, we’ve got DIBS on Kathryn Erbe.Kathryn Erbe is a celebrated stage and screen actor whose career spans Broadway, film, and some of television’s most iconic series. Many audiences know her as Detective Alexandra Eames on Law & Order: Criminal Intent, but her work reaches far beyond that role—from HBO’s groundbreaking drama Oz to beloved films like D2: The Mighty Ducks and What About Bob?A longtime member of the Steppenwolf Theatre Company ensemble, Kathryn returns to Chicago to star in The Dance of Death, a riveting and darkly funny psychological thriller adapted by Conor McPherson from August Strindberg’s classic play. Performing at the legendary Steppenwolf Theatre, the production blends biting humor, emotional intensity, and extraordinary physical performances.In this episode, Kathryn shares:How she landed on Broadway just six weeks after graduating from NYU TischThe surreal experience of joining Steppenwolf Theatre, a company she once read about as a teenager, dreaming of becoming an actorBehind-the-scenes stories from Oz, one of HBO’s most groundbreaking early dramasWhat it was really like filming Law & Order: Criminal Intent for ten seasons alongside Vincent D’OnofrioWhy theater and the shared experience of live performance feel more important than ever after the pandemicThe deeply personal story of how theater helped transform her life after a difficult adolescenceKathryn also talks about the physical demands of performing The Dance of Death, even revealing she’s currently performing the show while recovering from a broken foot.Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram, Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

We’re joined by Michael Hitchcock—Northwestern alum, Western Springs native, and a quietly legendary force behind some of the most influential comedies of the last 25+ years. From interning at WBEZ, CBS 2, WGN, and learning Chicago media from the inside, to finding his creative home at The Groundlings in Los Angeles, Michael’s career is a masterclass in craft, longevity, and being “in everything you love” (often before you even realize it).We talk about Michael’s iconic run with Christopher Guest, including Waiting for Guffman, Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, and For Your Consideration, and how that ensemble, improv-driven style didn’t just shape comedy, it helped rewrite the rules of how comedy films get made. Michael shares what it was like returning to Best in Show 25 years later, why it still holds up, and what surprised him most about dog show culture.Plus, Michael takes us inside two of the biggest streaming hits of the moment: Nobody Wants This and The Lowdown on FX/Hulu, a modern noir with sharp dialogue, an all-star cast, and an awards-season buzz that’s building fast. We also dig into his experience on Glee, from appearing on-screen to writing and producing across multiple seasons—what it’s like creating TV at peak cultural impact, and how music rights actually work when you’re pulling off ambitious episodes with major artists.In this episode, we discuss:Growing up in the western suburbs and falling in love with Second City and Chicago theaterThe surprising connection between community theater and landing Waiting for GuffmanThe Groundlings, character comedy, and the Chicago vs. LA comedy differenceThe legacy of Best in Show and why it’s still a cult classic (and then some)Behind the scenes of Nobody Wants This, The Lowdown, and GleeListen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram, Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

Chicago runs on voices you feel like you’ve known forever, and Melissa Forman is one of them. In this episode, we sit down with the legendary morning host of 93.9 WLIT-FM (Light FM) to unpack what makes Chicago one of the biggest radio markets in the country, why authenticity is the only currency that works here, and how radio still builds real community in a world that’s more “connected” than ever.Melissa takes us from Glenbrook to U of I, then into the early days of learning the craft the hard way—reel-to-reel, carts, stunts, brutal hours, and the kind of on-the-ground experience today’s broadcasters rarely get. We also talk about how the industry has evolved: how technology changed show prep, how programming and playlists actually work, and why structure doesn’t have to mean losing your voice.And yes, we go complete Chicago radio nerd. Melissa shouts out the icons who shaped her, shares the artists who gave her true “how is this my life?” moments (Dennis DeYoung included), and explains what she’s learned after decades on-air: at its best, radio isn’t just entertainment, it’s companionship, comfort, and a daily check-in that matters more than people realize.In this episode, we talk about:Why Chicago is one of the biggest radio markets, and why we’re so loyal to the voices we hear every dayHow the “Chicago holiday station” tradition became a citywide ritual (and why it starts when it starts)The real reason holiday songs repeat (and what “Top 40 philosophy” has to do with it)Radio then vs. now: carts, reels, stunts, and the end of the farm systemAuthenticity in Chicago: why this city rejects “national” energy and demands the real thingCommunity on-air: how Melissa uses her platform to make listeners feel seen, safe, and heardMelissa’s formative influences: Brandmeier, Dahl, Landecker, and moreListen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram, Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

This week, we got DIBS on Jeff Mauro, Food Network host, comedian, musician, and proud Chicagoan who built a career by blending two hometown obsessions: comedy and sandwiches. Jeff takes us from a big Italian-American kitchen to Taste of Chicago, from Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding to the Food Network Star stage, and shares what it really takes to turn a point of view into a long-lasting career.We talk about growing up in the Chicagoland area with food at the center of everything, the moment Jeff realized humor was his superpower, and why he never stopped chasing the dream, even when he was ready to be “good” with a normal life. He also breaks down Chicago sandwich culture (yes, we go there), what people still get wrong about Italian beef, and how food TV is evolving in the age of YouTube, influencers, and short-form clips.Jeff is also bringing a live, variety-style show to City Winery Chicago on January 22, a night of stories, music, food, and off-the-cuff comedy that feels like the most Jeff Mauro thing possible. In this episode, we cover:Jeff’s Chicago upbringing and why food was always the epicenterHow comedy became his superpower in third gradeMoving to LA and finding the Chicago community out westThe long road to Food Network Star and what finally made it clickWhy “being famous” is not a career and what creators miss todaySandwich King's origins and the power of a clear culinary point of viewHot dog as a sandwich debate (with a surprisingly poetic answer)Jeff’s current favorite Chicago sandwich picksFood Network’s shifting landscape and why live performance is the next waveWhy Jeff loves Chicago: grit, beauty, authenticity, and zero tolerance for nonsenseEpisode Resources:Jeff Mauro live at City Winery Chicago — January 22Mauro Provisions (including Jeff’s Jardiniera, now available at Whole Foods across the Midwest and Walmart)Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

This week, we got DIBS on Chris Candy, actor, musician, and executive producer of the new Amazon Prime documentary John Candy: I Like Me. From Planes, Trains, and Automobiles to Uncle Buck to Home Alone, John Candy helped define Chicago on screen for a generation. Now, his son Chris is pulling back the curtain on the man behind the roles: the working actor, the dad, and the human being who was as generous off-camera as he was hilarious on-camera.Set against the backdrop of the holidays, when John Candy movies are basically required viewing in Chicago, this conversation dives into grief, legacy, and what it means to share a parent with the world. Chris talks candidly about losing his dad at just eight years old, why the family waited three decades to make a documentary, and how I Like Me became his way of both honoring and finally processing that loss.If you grew up on John Candy movies, love Chicago holiday classics, or are navigating your own “Dead Dad Club” grief, this one’s going to hit you right in the feelings.In this episode, we cover:How John Candy: I Like Me came to life, from early ideas to teaming up with Colin Hanks and Ryan ReynoldsWhy the Candy family saw this as the definitive documentary and decided now was the right timeWhat it was like for Chris to grieve in public and privately at the same timeThe emotional weight of revisiting his dad’s life through old footage, friends’ stories, and fan memoriesMacaulay Culkin’s powerful recollection of working with John on Uncle Buck and how John treated kids on setThe Chicago DNA running through John’s most iconic roles and why the city still feels like “America in one place”How comedy, kindness, and vulnerability can all coexist in one personWhat Chris hopes people remember about his dad after watching the filmThe strange, tender camaraderie of the “dead dads’ club” and why talking about grief mattersWhy John Candy felt like someone audiences could trust, especially kids watching him on screenAbout John Candy: I Like MeJohn Candy: I Like Me is an intimate look at the beloved actor’s life, career, and inner world, from his early days on SCTV to Hollywood stardom. Featuring interviews with friends, collaborators, and family, the film explores not just the characters we love but also the man who played them and the son still learning who his father was.Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

A Red Orchid Theatre is one of Chicago’s most intimate and fearless stages, with just 60 to 70 seats, no distance between actor and audience, and storytelling that asks you to lean in. This week on DIBS, we sit down with Kirsten Fitzgerald, longtime ensemble member and Artistic Director of A Red Orchid Theatre, to talk about the craft, community, and Chicago spirit that have kept the company pushing artistic boundaries for more than 30 years in the heart of Old Town.Kirsten takes us from growing up in Lake Bluff and discovering theater as a calling, to training in the Midwest, to returning to Chicago in the mid-90s and finding her artistic home at A Red Orchid after seeing a production in 1995 that changed everything. Along the way, she shares the company’s origin story, founded by Guy Van Swearingen, Michael Shannon, and Lawrence Grimm, why the name A Red Orchid carries deeper meaning than most realize, and what it takes to build art that lives right on the edge of something honest.In this episode, we cover:The making of an actor: The first productions that blew Kirsten’s mind, why theater felt like a real calling in high school, and how Midwest training helped shape her craft.Returning to Chicago: Coming home after grad school, building a sustainable acting life, and how her day job at Thresholds turned into theater-driven work through games, interviewing skills, and social practice.How A Red Orchid started: The founding story, the Old Town space, and how a firefighter's schedule, a DIY mindset, and a rented room turned into a company that’s lasted more than 30 years.Why the room matters: What it means to do theater with 60–70 seats, how intimacy changes performance, and why audiences sometimes need time to sit and process before they can even stand up.Choosing a season as an ensemble: How the company reads year-round, votes on plays, balances classics with new work, and builds seasons around urgency, relationships, and what’s “eating at” the group.What’s coming next: Kirsten’s excitement for Birds of North America (which she’s directing), the themes she’s drawn to this season, and why she wants everyone to “just walk in the door.”Purchase tickets to Birds of North America here.Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

As the Bears gear up to face the Packers, we sit down with Super Bowl-winning quarterback Jim McMahon to talk about the city that adopted him, the team that defined a generation, and what it means to live with the long-term impact of the game he helped shape.Jim takes us from San Jose to Soldier Field to Lambeau: how a kid who loved baseball wound up under center for the 1985 Bears, why he saw rebellion as a form of leadership, and what it was really like inside that famously intense Ditka–Buddy Ryan locker room. Along the way, we get the stories behind the headbands, the sunglasses, and the day he wore a Bears jersey to the Packers’ White House visit.If you grew up hearing the ’85 Bears described like Greek gods, if “Go Bears” has ever been your version of “hello,” or if you’ve ever wondered what happens to a body and brain after football, this one’s for you.In this episode, we cover:Bears–Packers, from both sidelines: How a player who spent seven years as the ultimate Bear ended up in Green Bay and why he wore a Chicago jersey to the Super Bowl ring ceremony at the White House.The legend of #9: Jim’s journey from BYU record-breaker to the swaggering, sunglasses-wearing quarterback of the 1985 Bears, and why he saw “us against them” as pure Chicago energy.Cannabis over opioids: How he and other former players got off pain pills, what he’s learned about the body’s endocannabinoid system, and why he calls marijuana a medicinal plant, not a drug.Troops, USO tours, and perspective: The story of visiting bases in Iraq during wartime, staying in Saddam’s palaces, meeting wounded soldiers in autograph lines, and how that reshaped his sense of service and sacrifice.The headband heard ’round the world: From getting fined for an Adidas band to trolling NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle on national TV, then turning the spotlight to charities during the Super Bowl.Hockey dads and golf trips: Raising kids in Northbrook youth hockey, early memories of brutal ’70s hockey fights, and dream foursomes that include Michael Jordan and rounds at Augusta, St. Andrews, and Pebble Beach.Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

This episode is a love letter to Chicago’s lakefront icon. As we head into the holidays, we sit down with Marilynn Gardner President & CEO of Navy Pier, to talk about what it means to steward “Chicago’s front porch”, a place where history, culture, and core memories all collide.Marilynn takes us on a journey from freight to festivals: how a municipal pier built in 1916 became a Navy training site, a University of Illinois campus (a.k.a. “Harvard on the Rocks”), and eventually one of the most visited spots in the city — complete with the Centennial Wheel, public art, theater, restaurants, FlyOver Chicago, and more.If you’ve ever flown into Chicago, seen Navy Pier out the window, and thought, “Okay, I’m home,” this one’s for you.In this episode, we cover:A pier with a thousand lives: Marilynn traces Navy Pier’s evolution from shipping hub to Navy training ground, university campus, and finally the civic space we know today.Why Navy Pier is “Chicago’s front porch”: How the pier brings people together across neighborhoods, backgrounds, and generations, and why Marilynn sees her role as stewarding a mission-based cultural center, not just a tourist attraction.Winter WonderFest is back: The beloved holiday tradition returns after a five-year hiatus, with indoor ice skating, rides, and family-friendly fun for those long Chicago winter days.FlyOver Chicago & falling in love with the city (again): Nick shares his unexpectedly emotional experience on FlyOver Chicago, and Marilynn explains why it captures the grit, resilience, and beauty of the city so well.Events that shape the city’s cultural life: From EXPO CHICAGO to volleyball tournaments, weddings, fundraisers, and everything in between, how Navy Pier balances public space, local businesses, and significant events.Balancing history and what’s next: How Marilynn and her team protect the pier’s legacy while reimagining underused spaces and bringing in new experiences that keep people coming back.Episode Resources:Navy PierWinter Wonderfest TicketsMarilynn Gardner LinkedInListen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

This week, we got DIBS on Rocky Horror at the Music Box, the Midnight Madness shadow cast that’s been turning a 35mm print, a midnight showtime, and a lot of fishnets into one of Chicago’s longest-running queer rituals. From a scrappy 1990s Rogers Park crew to five sold-out Halloween shows in 2024, this is the story of how a “weird little movie” became a pillar of the city’s cultural fabric and a home for anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider.In this episode, Nick takes you inside the Music Box on Halloween night, live from the lobby, the balcony, and backstage, to talk with cast president Marnie Thompson, Franks Elise and Amy, historian/DJ/security chief Chris, veteran cast members Bones and Billy, newer faces like Mark, Sarah, and Colby, staging manager Logan, and Music Box special events director Matt Carr. Together, they unpack why Rocky still matters 50 years later, what it means to build a truly welcoming “padded room” for self-expression, and how a volunteer cast keeps this tradition alive month after month.In this episode, we cover:The first time it hits you: cast “Rocky stories” that start with high school theater, late-night TV, strict parents, anime conventions, and end with joining the cast.Why it endures: Rocky Horror as queer sanctuary, counterculture church, and a rare third space where you don’t have to drink to belong.Halloween vs. every other month: what makes the October run feel like “our Christmas,” how five shows sold out by early October, and why the energy on Halloween is unlike anything else in the city.Behind the corsets: staging managers juggling five nights of casting Tetris, months of rehearsals, handmade prop bags, and the nerves that never quite go away.Life on stage: playing Frank, Riff Raff, Eddie, Rocky, and more, embodying confidence, messiness, and joy, and what it feels like to have 700 people scream and dance with you at midnight.Queer history in real time: Midnight Madness as a 40-year Chicago institution, a place to figure out gender and sexuality long before language caught up, and a space where new generations keep finding themselves.The Music Box as home: how a once-run-down neighborhood theater became a thriving, analog, all-year destination, from Rocky at midnight to White Christmas sing-alongs and why people “just keep coming back.”If you’ve never been: how to pick your first show (Halloween chaos vs. deep-cut regulars), what to expect from the callbacks and crowd, and why the only real rule is simple: don’t be a dick.Episode Resources:The Music BoxListen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

This week, we got DIBS on filmmaker Gabe Polsky. It’s just me and Gabe in the room talking through his new documentary, The Man Who Saves the World? — the unbelievable, real-life story of Reverend Patrick McCollum and his mission to protect the Amazon. We delve into why Gabe was drawn to this journey, how the film came together, the moments that shook him, and what it means when one person decides to undertake something this significant.It’s a straight, honest conversation about belief, impact, and Chicago roots — the kind of talk you only get when it’s one-on-one.Episode Resources:Follow Gabe: @gabepolskiListen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

This week, we got DIBS on Kevin Shaw—Emmy-winning director, cinematographer, and one of Chicago’s most essential storytellers. From ESPN field producer to red carpets at the Chicago International Film Festival, Kevin has spent a career capturing the city’s heart. His latest documentary, One Golden Summer, revisits the 2014 Jackie Robinson West Little League team—how they united Chicago, what really happened when the headlines turned, and why this story is bigger than baseball.In this episode, Kevin pulls back the curtain on making the film without easy access to TV archives, centering the players’ voices a decade later, and challenging lazy narratives about the South Side. We talk youth sports as a media product, the whiplash from hero to “cheater,” and the resilience of young men who still love the game despite the spotlight’s burn.In this episode, we cover:The summer that gripped Chicago: Jackie Robinson West’s run, the joy of Williamsport, and kids sneaking in wiffle ball between interviews.When the cameras turned: media incentives, racial stereotyping, and how a complex residency rule became a national “gotcha.”Centering the players: why Kevin stepped back on premiere night, and what it means to let the team tell their own story now as adults.Youth sports on TV: visibility vs. exploitation; why putting 12-year-olds on a national stage can help and harm.Chicago myths vs. reality: Morgan Park, community, and the cost of a single-story narrative about the South Side.Life after the storm: mental health, rebuilding identity, and the players’ paths—in baseball, music, and beyond.What’s next for Kevin: a new project on Oscar Robertson, labor rights, and how the NBA changed forever.Episode Resources:Vision Construction & Consulting One Golden SummerListen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

Join us for a limited series called Chicago Unsolved, where hosts Nick Sarantos (co-host of the DIBS Podcast) and Kerry Karic explore one of Chicago’s strangest true-life mysteries — the Max Headroom Incident.In 1987, during a Sunday night Bears broadcast, WGN’s signal was hijacked by a figure in a rubber Max Headroom mask. Two hours later, it happened again—this time on PBS affiliate WTTW during Doctor Who. What followed was a bizarre, 90-second pirate transmission filled with cryptic phrases, eerie laughter, and a fly swatter.No one was ever caught.Joining Nick and Kerry is Professor Paul Booth, DePaul University’s professor of media and pop culture, who helps unravel how this low-tech act of rebellion became one of the most infamous unsolved hacks in television history. Together, they revisit the analog world of 1980s Chicago, decode the cultural impact of Max Headroom, and explore what this moment reveals about media, technology, and the rise of counterculture in America’s third-largest city.In this episode:The night Chicago TV went dark: how two local stations were hijacked in real time.Why the Max Headroom Incident still fascinates tech historians and pop-culture fans nearly 40 years later.The eerie connection between the hacker’s message, media consolidation, and today’s digital echo chambers.What the analog age can still teach us about creativity, rebellion, and control.Chicago Unsolved is brought to you by Vision Construction and Consulting, Inc. and One Tale at a Time Animal Rescue.Be sure also to check out our sister show, DIBS, on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow @Chicago_History on Instagram, Facebook, and X for more stories, behind-the-scenes content, and clips from both podcasts. Like, comment, and be a part of @Chicago_History.Nick's Instagram - @chiniko312Kerry's Instagram - @Kerryc9

This week, we got DIBS on Larry Potash, WGN Morning News anchor, creator/host of the Emmy-winning series Backstory, and a Chicago media institution. From Boston roots to 30+ years in the Midwest, Larry has had a front-row seat to the stories (and characters) that shape this city.In this episode, Larry pulls back the curtain on how WGN’s morning show actually gets made, why “great storytelling beats podium soundbites,” and how Backstory uses history to decode today’s headlines. We discuss journalism’s evolution (and erosion) in the social era, the difference between accountability and viral noise, and how Chicago maintains its sense of humor both on and off the air during heavy news cycles.In this episode, we cover:The WGN way: chemistry, authenticity, and why “news is a conveyor belt,” not a script.Backstory, explained: using history to make sense of now, plus standout episodes (Bozo, antisemitism in Oak Park, lost archives).From film to phones: the tech shifts Larry’s life, from tape and bike couriers to real-time feeds and misinformation.Politics & sports, Chicago-style: Daley-era obsessions, Obama’s rise, and how the Bears/Bulls/Cubs change the city’s mood.Heavy to light (for real): balancing tragedy with levity, why cancel culture misses the point, and Larry’s advice for young storytellers.Episode Resources:Vision Construction & Consulting Purchase Tickets for Mr. Wolf at Steppenwolf TheaterListen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

Join us for a limited series called Chicago Unsolved, where hosts Nick Sarantos(co-host of the DIBS Podcast) and Kerry Karic dive into one of Chicago’s most infamous mysteries: the disappearance of candy heiress Helen Brach. In 1977, Brach vanished without a trace, leaving behind whispers of fraud and foul play tied to the horse-racing world and a case that has gone unanswered for nearly fifty years. Joining the conversation is legendary Emmy Award-winning investigative reporter Chuck Goudie of NBC 5 Chicago, who shares his insight into the twists, theories, and lasting impact of this haunting story.Be sure also to check out our sister show, DIBS, on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow @Chicago_History on Instagram, Facebook, and X for more stories, behind-the-scenes content, and clips from both podcasts. Like, comment, and be a part of @Chicago_History.Nick's Instagram - @chiniko312Kerry's Instagram - @Kerryc9

This week, we got DIBS on Audrey Francis and Glenn Davis, the dynamic co-artistic directors of Chicago’s legendary Steppenwolf Theatre. From its scrappy beginnings in a Highland Park church basement to its 50th anniversary season, Steppenwolf has redefined American theater, launching iconic productions, shaping generations of actors, and making Chicago a global cultural force.In this episode, Audrey and Glenn pull back the curtain on how the ensemble operates, what it means to nurture bold new voices, and how they’re keeping Steppenwolf’s rebellious spirit alive while planning a boundary-pushing season. We talk about their own journeys from actors to artistic leaders, the delicate balance between honoring classics and debuting new work, and what makes Chicago audiences so uniquely special.In this episode, we cover:The origin story: How three young actors built Steppenwolf into a world-class theater company.Building an ensemble: Why long-term relationships and artistic trust fuel their success.Behind the season: A preview of Mr. Wolf, Feet, Windfall, Catch as Catch Can, and a revival of Amadeus.Life onstage: Their advice for aspiring actors, and how they keep the work honest, brave, and alive.Steppenwolf’s 50th season celebrates its storied past while boldly embracing the future—and Audrey and Glenn are steering the company with passion, humor, and a fierce love for Chicago.Episode Resources:Learn more and explore upcoming shows at Steppenwolf.Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

This week we’ve got dibs on Anthony Rapp, actor, singer, activist, and Chicago-area native best known for originating Mark Cohen in RENT and for Lt. Cmdr. Paul Stamets on Star Trek: Discovery. From community theater in Joliet at age six to Broadway, film, TV, and concerts, Anthony shares a generous, funny, and deeply personal look at craft, legacy, and life back in Chicago.In this episode, we cover:Chicago roots to Broadway stages: Summer-camp Wizard of Oz at six, Equity card at nine on the Evita tour, and early gigs at the Goodman, plus the teacher and community directors who opened doors.On-screen favorites: How Richard Linklater’s collaborative style made Dazed and Confused a career favorite and a bracing (and unforgettable) Yul Brynner story from The King and I tour.The making & meaning of RENT: Honoring Jonathan Larson, processing loss on the cusp of success, and how the show widened empathy, representation, and allyship for a generation.Activism as purpose: From early HIV/AIDS advocacy to marriage-equality work and how fatherhood has sharpened his lens on community and belonging.Star Trek & storytelling: Building TV’s quietly groundbreaking queer partnership with Wilson Cruz, why sci-fi is the perfect empathy machine, and portraying trauma, love, and repair on screen.Episode Resources:City Winery Chicago Presents Anthony Rapp of the original Broadway cast of RENT live on Sunday, September 21st at 7:00 PM!Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

This week on DIBS presented by @chicago_history, we sit down with Dr. Voula Saridakis, head curator at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry.In this episode, we cover:The museum’s origins at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition and how it evolved into today’s Griffin Museum of Science and Industry.What’s hidden behind the walls: 35,000+ artifacts, with only a fraction on public display.Stories behind iconic exhibits like the U-505 submarine, Apollo 8 command module, the coal mine, the Boeing 727, and the five-story tornado in Science Storms.How exhibits like The Great Train Story sneak in Easter eggs (yes, those superhero figurines are intentional).Annual traditions, including Christmas Around the World & Holidays of Light, and the museum’s deep partnerships with Chicago’s neighborhoods.Preparing for new neighbors like the Obama Presidential Center and collaborating with institutions like the University of Chicago.The museum’s future: digitizing its collections, expanding access through VR/AR, and inspiring the next generation of scientists and dreamers.Episode Resources:Griffin Museum of Science and IndustryU-505 Submarine Exhibit TicketsListen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

This week on DIBS presented by @chicago_history, we sit down with Jaap Hoogstraten, Director of Exhibits at Chicago’s legendary Field Museum. For generations, the Field has been at the heart of Chicagoland childhoods, whether it was the awe of seeing Sue the T. rex for the first time, standing beneath towering dinosaurs, or peeking at ancient mummies on a school field trip.In this conversation, we discuss:The history of the Field Museum, from its roots at the 1893 World’s Fair to its current status as a global leader in science and storytelling.How the museum is tackling modern challenges, from cultural sensitivity and collaboration with Native communities to the rise of short-form video and interactive tech.Behind-the-scenes insights into building exhibits, what it takes to plan for years, balancing in-house creativity with traveling shows, and keeping fragile treasures preserved for future generations.Iconic memories like the unveiling of Sue the T. rex, “Dozin’ with the Dinos,” and how exhibits like Native Truths are transforming museum experiences.Supporting local museums matters, whether it’s buying a ticket, becoming a member, or simply bringing your kids to experience the wonder.We also get a preview of the upcoming After the Age of Dinosaurs exhibition (opening August 28, 2025), plus fun stories from Jaap’s 25 years shaping one of Chicago’s greatest institutions.Chicago is fortunate to have the Field Museum, and this episode serves as a poignant reminder of why it remains a cultural anchor for the city and beyond.Episode Resources:Field MuseumAfter The Age of Dinosaurs TicketsListen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.RIOPOP, the ultimate summer refreshment, sponsors this episode. Non-alcoholic, low carbonation, and infused with electrolytes, perfect for a day at the museum or soaking up the Chicago sun. Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

Steven Galanis is the co-founder of Cameo and a proud Chicagoan. He takes us inside the company’s journey from its scrappy beginnings in Chicago to becoming a global platform, reflecting on the challenges of building a startup in the Midwest and how the team adapted through both the pandemic boom and the subsequent difficult period.In this episode, we cover:The very Chicago origin story of Cameo (yes, it involves O’Hare traffic).How the company soared during the pandemic—and rebuilt after layoffs.Why Steven kept Cameo headquartered in Chicago instead of moving to the coasts.The bold decision to bring employees back to the office—with perks like $10k raises and daily lunches.Chicago’s role in shaping tech, talent, and grit.Cameo isn’t just a startup—it’s a Chicago story through and through.Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.RIOPOP, the ultimate summer refreshment, sponsors this episode. Non-alcoholic, low carbonation, and infused with electrolytes, perfect for a day at the museum or soaking up the Chicago sun. Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

We’ve got DIBS on Kevin Boehm, cofounder of Boka Restaurant Group and 2019 James Beard Award winner for Outstanding Restaurateur. Kevin opens up about his unconventional journey from living in a van and launching a 6-table restaurant in Florida to becoming one of the most respected names in hospitality. In this episode, we cover:The origin story of Boka Restaurant Group and its “chef partner” modelWhy hospitality and mental health matter just as much as foodHow the pandemic reshaped his leadership and inspired his upcoming book, "The Bottomless Cup", out in Fall 2025His personal transformation—including going alcohol-free, therapy, and building Beyond, a holistic wellness club in ChicagoAnd yes, we talk pizza (and his new spot, Zarella, opening soon in Chicago!)We also catch up with friend of the show Steve Dolinsky, Chicago’s pizza authority and former NBC/ABC7 food reporter, to talk about his new gig at Levy and the return of Pizza City Fest Chicago. From the $26 GA ticket to the $125 VIP experience, Steve walks us through everything you need to know about the ultimate pizza weekend happening August 22–24, including fresh pies made onsite, a pizza box folding competition, and a killer music lineup (Hello, Trippin’ Billies and Sixteen Candles!). Additionally, we learn about the fest’s charitable partner, Donate Pizza, and why Chicago's diverse pizza styles—tavern, deep dish, stuffed, and pan—deserve more recognition on the national stage.Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

We’re diving deep—literally and figuratively—into one of Chicago’s most beloved institutions: The Shedd Aquarium. We are joined by Bob Wengel, Senior Vice President of Facilities and Security at Shedd, who has been helping care for this iconic lakefront destination for over 30 years.In this episode, Bob shares the fascinating history of how John G. Shedd envisioned a world-class aquarium for Chicago, the extraordinary design details hidden in plain sight, and how the facility has evolved over the decades through cutting-edge sustainability practices, architectural innovation, and a deep commitment to animal welfare.From beluga whales and anacondas to penguin field trips during the pandemic, Bob takes us behind the scenes to explore the work that keeps the Shedd a world leader in aquatic care, conservation, and climate education. He also shares exciting updates on Shedd’s Centennial Commitment, including new exhibits, environmental outreach along the South Branch of the Chicago River, and a renewed focus on inspiring the next generation through immersive, tech-forward experiences.Whether you’ve visited the Shedd a dozen times or have yet to go, this episode will leave you with a renewed appreciation for what it means to look nature in the eye.In this episode, we cover:The surprising origin story of the Shedd AquariumHidden design gems in the original 1930 Beaux-Arts buildingHow Shedd’s sustainability efforts reduced water usage by 50% and waste by 80%Why beluga whales are so special to Bob—and to Shedd visitorsHow animal rescue, veterinary science, and climate research come together at SheddThe viral story of Wellington the penguin during the pandemicWhat’s coming this summer: Jazzin’ at the Shedd, new exhibits, and a beautiful new entranceResources & Links:Plan your visit: www.sheddaquarium.orgFollow the Shedd on Instagram: @shedd_aquariumListen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

This week on Dibs, we sit down with a hometown hero who’s made a name for himself in Chicago journalism: Ben Bradley, 4 PM anchor and investigative reporter at WGN News.Born and raised in the South Suburbs, Ben has spent more than two decades reporting on the stories that shape Chicago—from local corruption to headline-grabbing political scandals. In this episode, we dive deep into his groundbreaking work on the Dalton investigation and what it takes to break a story in the age of “fake news,” outrage culture, and 10-second attention spans.In this episode, we cover:The real process behind investigative journalismWhy local news matters more than everHow social media and partisanship have changed news consumptionChicago’s history of political scandal and why it keeps repeatingWhat keeps Ben inspired to report the truth in his own hometownListen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

On this episode of DIBS, we sit down with the legendary Steven Smith, the man behind some of the most iconic sneakers of all time. Known as the Godfather of the Dad Shoe, Steven’s career has spanned decades and touched nearly every major sneaker brand—New Balance, Reebok, Fila, Nike, Adidas, Yeezy, and now Crocs. Steven's designs have defined generations of streetwear and sneaker culture, from the classic New Balance 574 to the futuristic Yeezy 700 Wave Runner.In this episode, we cover:How Chicago’s streets and sneaker culture inspired Steven’s iconic designsHis journey from a fresh art school graduate to a global design legendThe story behind creating game-changing sneakers like the New Balance 574, 996, and Yeezy 700His partnership with Kanye West at Yeezy and the innovative process behind the Wave RunnerWhy he chose to take his talents to Crocs and what’s next for his design evolutionSteven also shares his favorite spots in Chicago, his love for Piece Pizza in Wicker Park, and why he believes Chicago is the perfect blend of grit and grace.Connect with Steven Smith:InstagramLinkedInListen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman

On this episode of DIBS, we sit down with legendary Chicago Bulls play-by-play announcer Adam Amin for an unforgettable deep dive into his journey—from growing up in Addison as a Bulls superfan to becoming the voice of the team he idolized.Adam shares how it still gives him goosebumps to hear “Sirius” echo through the United Center, the dreamlike experience of calling buzzer-beaters next to Stacey King, and the honor of following in the footsteps of Chicago sports legends. We talk about the adrenaline of live sports broadcasting, what it was like calling games during COVID, and how he balances objectivity with hometown pride across the NBA, NFL, and MLB.Plus, Adam opens up about his creative outlet, DJing, and how house music is just as much a part of Chicago’s soul as sports. From his love for tavern-style pizza to his family’s immigrant story and connection to the city, Adam’s story is full of heart, humor, and hometown love.Whether you're a die-hard Bulls fan, a sports media junkie, or love a great Chicago story—this episode is a slam dunk. This episode is sponsored by Riotpop.Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory WaxmanFor sponsorship opportunities or joint marketing partnerships, email us at [email protected].

We’re kicking off the first episode of DIBS with none other than Steve Dolinsky, a true icon of Chicago’s food scene. You might know him as “The Food Guy” on NBC 5 Chicago, where his mouthwatering food reports air every Thursday at 10 p.m.Steve is a 13-time James Beard Award winner and an accomplished author, best known for Pizza City, U.S.A.: 101 Reasons Why Chicago is America’s Greatest Pizza Town. That book came after he visited 185 pizzerias in just six months—yes, really. The research led to the launch of Pizza City U.S.A. Tours in 2018 and Pizza City Fest, an annual celebration of top pizza makers nationwide.He also co-hosted The Feed Podcast with Chef Rick Bayless from 2014 to 2019, which won the James Beard Award for Best Podcast in 2015.We couldn’t imagine a better guest to help us dig into what makes Chicago’s food culture so special. Welcome to DIBS, Steve!Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory WaxmanFor sponsorship opportunities or joint marketing partnerships, email us at [email protected].

DIBS is dedicated to exploring Chicago's heart and soul, sharing untold stories celebrating the city’s vibrant culture, iconic history, and influential figures. Rooted in the cherished Chicago tradition, our podcast highlights the journeys of elite entrepreneurs, celebrated artists, community leaders, and cultural icons. DIBS aims to connect our diverse and highly engaged audience through engaging narratives about the people and moments that shape Chicago’s identity, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the city we all love.Download this episode of DIBS wherever you listen to podcasts!Stay connected by following us on Instagram @chicago_history.For sponsorship opportunities or joint marketing partnerships, email us at [email protected].