Say More with Mary Dixon & Patrick Smith

To celebrate 91.5 Day and the one-year anniversary of the show, Mary and Pat mark the occasion with a live performance and studio audience. We also asked WBEZ superfans to join us and put on their producer hat by pitching the topics they want us to dive into in future shows. Plus, cast members from Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s Play On! perform a scene and song from the show premiering this weekend.GUESTS: Hailee Kaleem Wright, actorAlanna Lovely, actorJames Harkness, actor

The temperature is cooling off, the leaves are turning, and the TV lineup is about to get a refresh. It’s time to grab a blanket, snuggle into a cozy spot on the couch, and dive into the new shows airing this fall. On today’s Say More, we run down the most-anticipated TV shows heading to your screen this fall. From returning comedy gems like “Ted Lasso” and the highly anticipated “A Different World” reboot to fan-favorites like “The Great British Bake Off,” we run down this fall’s can’t-miss shows. GUEST: Danette Chavez, editor-in-chief of The A.V. Club and the secretary of the Television Critics Association

The Sept. 11 terror attacks profoundly altered U.S. domestic and foreign policies. President Bush instituted increased surveillance of American Muslims and activists, started the protracted war in Afghanistan and invaded Iraq. This week, NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani released thousands of documents that suggest that government officials knew how toxic the air quality was after the World Trade Center Towers collapsed, but didn’t alert the public.So, 25 years after this deadly attack, Say More invited callers to share how their lives were changed. 

An unhealthy employee can be an unsuccessful employee. According to one annual survey, 90% of American workers say they have at least one minor mental health issue at work and half say they experience moderate to severe levels of burnout, depression and anxiety.Some companies are trying a variety of different wellness programs, like organization-wide step goals, therapy stipends or stress-management training. But are these resources actually meant to improve your health or just make sure you stay a profitable resource?Say More asks a professional corporate wellness counselor to weigh in on the benefits of these programs.GUEST: Erin Clifford, corporate wellness coach at Erin Clifford Wellness

The Printer’s Row Lit Fest is returning for its 41st weekend, with an extensive lineup of authors and speakers, including Chicago’s poet laureate.

What is the one poem you keep returning to, the poem that reaches off the page to speak with you as if it’s an old friend offering sage advice? If you haven’t found yours yet, the Printer’s Row Lit Fest this weekend is your chance to discover the poem – as well as the poet. Say More waxes poetic with Chicago’s very own poet laureate.Poetry suggestions from Say More listeners:The Creation by James Weldon JohnsonIf by Rudyard KiplingOn Children by Khalil GibranThis Be The Verse by Philip LarkinAbsolution in the New Year by Judith Ortiz CofferOutwitted by Edwin MarkhamNow We Are Six by A.A. MilneThe Force That Through The Green Fuse Drives The Flower by Dylan ThomasLovers of the Poor by Gwendolyn BrooksPrimer Lesson by Carl SandburgHow To Be A Poet by Wendell BerryGUEST: Mayda del Valle, Chicago poet laureate

It’s been one year since DHS announced ICE operation Midway Blitz in honor of Katie Abraham who was killed in a drunken hit-and-run in Urbana, allegedly by a Guatemalan man without legal status. The aim of the operation was to target who DHS considers “criminal illegal aliens.”But according to data analysis by WBEZ and the Chicago Sun-Times, 85% of the people who were detained during Midway Blitz had no prior criminal conviction. In fact, immigration enforcement were often more successful at holding criminals before and after their highly publicized deportation campaign.Say More hears from listeners about reflections on that time and where we are today.GUEST: Adriana Cardona-Maguigad, WBEZ immigration reporter

Artist Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, is in Chicago for his 2026 tour with two sold-out shows at Soldier Field. While many fans are feeling the excitement, former fans are reflecting on their relationship/connection with him after years of controversy from antisemitic rhetoric to anti-Black remarks and extremist associations. Countries like Russia, Poland and the UK have gone as far as barring him from entering and cancelling his tour dates and festival appearances. Earlier this year – before dropping his new album – Ye published an apology in the Wall Street Journal saying he "lost touch with reality” after suffering brain damage in a car accident years ago that eventually led to a bipolar type-1 diagnosis.But can people really redeem themselves after causing so much harm from their actions?Say More dives in.GUEST: Arionne Nettles, WBEZ news editor

President Trump’s executive order changing the name of Lake Ontario is overwhelmingly unpopular among Americans. It’s the latest in the president’s renaming efforts. In Chicago, landmarks like Lake Shore Drive and the Sears Tower have been renamed, but many locals say they won’t change what they call them.Say More asks a historian about the legacy of name changes and the fights over them, and opens the phones to hear from listeners. Plus, we reflect on the legacy of feminist icon Gloria Steinem.GUESTS: Jennifer Brier, professor of Gender and Women’s Studies, University of Illinois ChicagoKevin Schultz, professor in the Department of History, University of Illinois Chicago

According to a 2023 study, more than half of employees surveyed say they’ve considered taking a break from work to avoid feeling burnt out and support their mental health and wellbeing. For students, gap years spent abroad helped them build soft skills like adaptability, communication and creative problem-solving.Gap years and sabbaticals aren’t always about travel and adventure; some people spend the time volunteering, working and saving or building skills. Say More asks listeners about their experiences taking a gap year or sabbatical.GUEST: Sandy Furth, certified educational planner, World Student Support

The House was gavelled into a brief session yesterday following a five-week break. By mid-September, both the House and Senate will return for fall legislating. As the nation’s lawmakers head back to D.C., what topics do Chicagoans want to be addressed first?Say More takes your calls and hears what Congress is working on right now from a political reporter on the ground. GUEST: Arthur Delaney, Huffington Post senior reporter covering Congress

A proposed privately funded express train would shuttle passengers from the Loop to O’Hare International Airport in 15 minutes. The $2.25 billion battery-powered train line would run on existing tracks from the Old Post office to O’Hare. Say More asks: If you had $2.25 billion dollars to spend on an urban development innovation what would you do? Improve sidewalks? Smart roofs? Maybe a fleet of bullet trains? GUEST: Mark Bennett, director of planning central region, Speck Dempsey

The protein-maxxing trend is taking over the internet. Whether you’re trying to gain muscle or lose weight, there’s a seeming obsession with making sure you’re getting enough protein. But is this all protein actually good for you? When is it too much? Say More hosts sit down with a dietitian and asks you to share your experience. GUESTS: Bethany Doerfler, MS, RD, GI research specialist and clinical dietitian, Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health CenterDana Buccheri, owner and trainer, StrongWithDana

As we shift from beach reads to cozy fall book lists, Say More asks listeners what everyone is reading, and what we’re looking forward to reading this fall. And Mary Dixon and Patrick Smith debate the question: do you read differently depending on the season?Guest: Greta Johnsen, host of the Happy to Be Here podcast Greta suggests:Land by Maggie O’Farrell Exit Party by Emily St. John Mandel Ply by Hernan DiazMary suggests:Cool Machine by Colson WhiteheadThe Keeper by Tana FrenchThe Rise and Fall of the Artificial State by Jill LeporePat suggests:Dead Man’s Walk by Larry McMurtryOn the Calculation of Volume by Solvej Balle Listener suggests:Razor Blade Tears by SA Cosby The Dark Forest by Liu Cixin – part of Three Body Problem trilogyThree Lives of Cate Kay by Kate FaganAtmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid Pedro Paramo by Juan Rulfo Emperor of Gladness by Ocean VuongFire and Clay by Will Quam My Friends by Fredrick Backman

Legendary singer-songwriter Dolly Parton died at the age of 80 on Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2026. She was hospitalized just four days prior.In a recent interview on Aug. 21, Parton said, “I’m still healin’, I’m still workin’! You know me — as I’ve often said — I’ve dreamed myself into a corner and I still have so many things I want to achieve, so I’m gonna keep on working as long as I can to see everything come to life.”Say More hears from listeners about the impact of Dolly Parton on their lives.GUESTS: Lydia Hamessley, Eugene M. Tobin Distinguished Professor of Music, Hamilton College; author, Unlikely Angel: The Songs of Dolly PartonChris Jones, editorial page editor and chief theater critic, Chicago TribuneS. Mayumi "Umi" Grigsby, executive director, Share Our Spare – Chicago partner for Dolly’s Imagination Library 

Tens of thousands of cases of cyclosporiasis have been confirmed by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention since earlier this year.Now, it seems like we’re seeing more and more warnings of foodborne illnesses. From listeria-tainted cold cuts and salmonella-laced jalapenos to screw worms in beef cattle and dog food contaminated with metal – the recalls seem neverending.Say More opens the phone lines to hear how people are adapting and checks in with an expert on food safety to get tips and the latest information.GUEST: Brian Schaneberg, executive director, Institute for Food Safety and Health at IIT

You can’t go through social media without seeing an influencer telling you how to fix your life, or your job, or your body. Sometimes it’s great advice. Sometimes it’s NOT. Today on Say More. have you ever been influenced to do something you would later regret? We dig into the social media economy that’s fueling bad influencers. GUEST: Prof. Rima Touré-Tillery, associate professor of marketing at Northwestern University Kellogg School of Business

Let’s face it. It’s been a crappy summer. Tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, overcast and smoky skies have all gotten in the way of outdoor events and days spent at the beach or on the patio. So, with a little less than a month left of summer, what’s the one thing you’re going to do – come hell or high water – that will give you a sense of satisfaction and carry you through the winter?

Chicagoans got hit with a variety of extreme weather events this summer. From wildfire smoke to frequent flooding, sewer geysers to triple-digit heat, living and owning a home in the city is steadily getting more trying.The extreme weather has also caused considerable damage for homeowners. And it’s also contributing to higher insurance costs. Meanwhile, getting your homeowners insurance provider to pay up is easier said than done. On today’s Say More, listeners hear from two industry experts for a closer look. GUEST: Abe Scarr, director of Illinois Public Interest Research Group (PIRG)Mark Friedlander, senior director of media relations at Insurance Information Institute (III)

Chicago is no longer the rattiest city in the country. That’s according to the national pest control company, Orkin. But many, including a spokesperson for Chicago’s Department of Streets and Sanitation, question the corporation's methodology and findings as issues with the rodents persist across the city. Cole Stallard, commissioner of Chicago’s Streets and Sanitation, says while the agency is getting better at rodent control, Chicagoans also need to do their part and clean up after themselves and their pets.On Say More, callers share their experiences in combatting rat infestations and ask for more help from the city.  GUEST: Cole Stallard, Commissioner, Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many universities relaxed standardized testing requirements for admissions, creating “test-optional” policies that lingered long after a return to the physical classroom. Now, we’re seeing elite institutions return to requiring SAT or ACT scores for admission and an increase in students selecting to submit their scores, even to test optional schools.Many professors and administrators say high school grades are often inflated and that test scores are a more accurate measure of a student’s future success. But, many advocates are concerned that this disadvantages students who can’t afford test-prep classes or to retake the test multiple times to improve their score. Say More asks callers to share their experiences with SAT or ACT tests and to weigh in on the question of whether there’s a place for standardized tests in admissions. 

It’s spider season – the time of year when our eight-legged friends reach maturity and go searching for a mate. The increase in arachnid activity means you're probably seeing more webs in the yard and an increase in spider sightings indoors. Despite the fact that most spiders are friendly and good for the environment, arachnophobia – an intense fear of spiders – is one of the most common phobias in the world. Today, Say More  wants to know: how do you feel about spiders? Are you seeing more spiders than usual this season? Are you ushering them outside – or ushering yourself far away from any sign of spidey? GUESTS: Allen Lawrance, associate curator of entomology, Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

Chicago’s Air & Water show is back with several days of events and performances planned. On Saturday and Sunday, onlookers watched the aerial acrobatics and aquatic activities from the Thunderbirds and other military and civilian performers.Those who didn’t see the show in person at North Avenue Beach were still able to hear it across the city as the various jets and planes fly by.Say More asks listeners how they feel about the show this year.GUESTS: John Llewellyn, MSI senior exhibit strategist and transportation expertCapt. Hannah Durbin, public affairs officer for the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration SquadronAndrea Guthmann, WBEZ producer

From Flock cameras to Ring doorbells, surveillance permeates everyday life in America. Say More ask listeners if these technologies make them feel safer, and if not, what steps people are taking to protect their privacy. GUEST: Freddy Martinez, co-director of Lucy Parsons Labs

How is artificial intelligence affecting Chicago workers?

The many languages of Chicago

The 2026 General Midterm elections are less than three months away. Illinoisans will send a new senator and congressional representatives to Washington, choose the governor and other statewide officers. Affordability, the war in Iran and healthcare are among the issues top of mind for voters. On today’s Say More, we’re looking at the issues and anxieties that are driving voters to the polls. GUEST Jane Ruby, president, League of Women Voters of Chicago

What could it look like if Chicago’s top priority was climate change?

Who gets to claim being a Chicagoan?

Everybody loves a park. How would you improve yours?

WBEZ’s Say More asks listeners to walk us through their perfect day in Chicago. Callers share where they would eat, the art they would see, where they want to go swimming and where they would want to end their final night in the Windy City.Plus, Mary and Pat share their own dream itineraries.

What classic film do you think is due for a reboot?

Should you take your kids to Lollapalooza?

What song keeps the blues away?

Imagine a bartender who already knows your drink or a barista who can whip up the usual while you chat. Whether it’s at your neighborhood dive, your longtime barbershop or your favorite café, becoming a regular at a local institution can be a gratifying experience.Say More asks listeners why and where you’ve become a regular.GUEST: Ashok Selvam, founder of food culture publication Ravenous Kara Meyers, barista at Metric Coffee on Fulton

What Chicago business would you bring back?

Did you know that Chicago and Lithuania have strong cultural and political ties to each other? Two-time Lithuanian president Valdas Adamkus worked in Chicago as the regional administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency. Nearly 60,000 Lithuanian immigrants live in Chicagoland. Longtime Illinois Senator Dick Durbin’s mother was born in Lithuania.Despite only declaring independence from the Soviet Union in 1990, Lithuania’s government has been rated a stronger democracy than the U.S. by several international political watchdog organizations. So what can Americans learn from Lithuania’s young but passionate commitment to democratic governing? We sit down with a reporter who traveled to Lithuania to find out. GUEST: Stephanie Zimmermann, Chicago-Sun Times investigative reporter

What do you want?

Does your family have that one dish that everyone loves? Is the cook behind it willing to share or are they taking that recipe to the grave? Say More listeners dish about family food drama – and the recipe that caused a ruckus in the group chat.

The Onion’s plans for conspiracy site Infowars: ‘You can’t degrade something this stupid’

On Monday, we talked about how to make friends as adults.Today on Say More, our conversation continues with a focus on maintaining friendships.  Careers, kids and busy schedules often make it difficult to prioritize our pals. We dig into the importance of making time for friends and how those relationships keep us healthy. Guests Dr. Jason Washburn, chief of psychology, psychiatry and behavioral sciences department, Feinberg School of MedicineMark Caro, former Chicago Tribune reporter 

Snelling’s last day was Wednesday. Now the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability has to find his replacement.

It’s all about intentionality.

We want to know the tune that puts you in a “summertime and the livin’ is easy” kind of mood.

Producer: Patrick Smith

Producer: Micah Yason

Producer: Micah Yason

Producer: Cianna Greaves

Producer: Meha Ahmad, Patrick Smith

According to a new survey, only a third of Americans feel that “the American Dream” still holds true today.