Shows
Chicago UnscriptedScott Simon - NPR Host & AuthorHe has been with NPR for more than 40 years. Scott Simon joins “Chicago Unscripted’ to talk about AI, Venezuela, the current state of journalism, and the funding fate of NPR. We also discuss his poignant and personal book about the death of his mother, his deep love for the Cubs, and his deeper love for the city of Chicago. Plus, if he could share a pint with one figure in history, who would it be?
2026-01-0948 minChicago UnscriptedDeborah Norville - Former 'Inside Edition' Anchor, 'The Perfect Line' HostAfter 30 years as the anchor of ‘Inside Edition,’ Deborah Norville has a new job hosting a game show. In this episode of ‘Chicago Unscripted,’ Norville plays a round of her new game - as a contestant, and talks about how her career started in Atlanta. WMAQ hired her when she was just 23, and she took Chicago by storm. So much so, NBC called her up to ‘The Today Show.’ But her rocket ship crashed with a painfully public and messy departure that drove her into a deep depression. Deborah shares personal stories about that exit, and how she leaned into gratitu...
2025-12-2047 minChicago UnscriptedJoshua Doss -Political Data Analyst, Pollster & ConsultantIf data is the new currency in the digital age, Joshua Doss could be a banker. His specialty is political data. He shares his observations on Instagram with a robust audience of more than half a million followers.He joins ‘Chicago Unscripted’ to talk about the educational value of political data, and how he uses numbers to make a point, spread the truth, and promote mindset expansion.
2025-11-2252 minChicago UnscriptedAli Barthwell - Reality TV Recapper, Writer for 'Last Week Tonight with John Oliver'If you're a fan of 'The Bachelor' franchise, you likely know her work. Ali Barthwell has spent the last ten years recapping every episode. Which reality show would she be on if she had her choice? She shares that, her path through Second City, her cancer journey, and her 'other' job, writing for 'Last Week Tonight with John Oliver' - where she has won five Emmys. A Chicago native, she also has thoughts on how to make the city even better.
2025-10-3154 minChicago UnscriptedEric Stonestreet - 'Modern Family' & 'Dexter: Resurrection' ActorIt’s hard to understate how much Chicago means to Eric Stonestreet. It’s where he got his start after college at Kansas State, and where he built the foundation of his acting career. Eric shares stories of how he went from sociology to stage, the importance of improv in his career, and his two critical years at the IO Theater and Second City. He covers his early days in Boys Town, his favorite SNL actor, his iconic role on ‘Modern Family,’ and the pitfalls of playing a gay character as a straight man. What’s obvious throughout, is his love f...
2025-10-021h 04Chicago UnscriptedGreg Kinnear - Oscar Nominated ActorHe has been a Hollywood star for decades, acting next to some of the biggest names in movies and TV. But Greg Kinnear has never lost sight of the Midwest roots that keep him grounded and humble. Greg shares stories from his early days, including a frightening tour in Lebanon after his dad got a job in the State Department. Plus, his breakthrough experiences in the entertainment industry, and a spot on impression of a legendary Casey Kasem meltdown.
2025-09-1047 minChicago UnscriptedSarah Spain - 'Good Game' Podcast Host, espnW contributor, AuthorSarah admits she can be a lightning rod. Her opinions often spark headlines. She explains why it's important to share her voice on often toxic social media platforms. We cover the challenges facing women's sports, WNBA player salaries, and the transgender athlete debate. We also discuss Sarah's new book about the incredible twists and turns of NFL player and coach Deland McCullough's adoption story, and the broader themes of privilege, mental health and family dynamics that emerged.
2025-07-2652 min
RHAP: We Know SurvivorMitch Guerra and Star Toomey Talk Survivor 48 | The Survivor 50 FilesMitch Guerra and Star Toomey Talk Survivor 48 | The Survivor 50 Files
As Survivor 50 brings together legends from across the decades, it’s time to revisit the history that made them icons. In The Survivor 50 Files, host Brandon Donlon dives deep into the castaway archives — exploring the journey of each player in the Survivor 50 cast in the order they originally played.
With insight from former tribemates, behind-the-scenes stories, and a sharp eye for the game’s evolution, Brandon unpacks what made each of these players memorable and why they earned a spot in the biggest season yet.
2025-07-091h 11Survivor 50 – RobHasAwebsite.comMitch Guerra and Star Toomey Talk Survivor 48 | The Survivor 50 FilesMitch Guerra and Star Toomey Talk Survivor 48 | The Survivor 50 Files
As Survivor 50 brings together legends from across the decades, it’s time to revisit the history that made them icons. In The Survivor 50 Files, host Brandon Donlon dives deep into the castaway archives — exploring the journey of each player in the Survivor 50 cast in the order they originally played.
With insight from former tribemates, behind-the-scenes stories, and a sharp eye for the game’s evolution, Brandon unpacks what made each of these players memorable and why they earned a spot in the biggest season yet.
2025-07-0900 min
RadiogirlJoe Donlon - Living the Dream at CBS ChicagoListen at http://radiogirl.us/audio/RG200.mp3Joe Donlon is an anchor at CBS News Chicago. He was on the air at WGN-TV and NewsNation in Chicago, and was at KGW-TV in Oregon for several years before coming to Chicago. He talks about why he loves Chicago and feels relaxed; how he's been living the dream; how he got to WGN-TV from Oregon; having fun at work; the journalism profession including: demo reels, challenges in the business, prepping for a newscast and speaking spontaneously, how to be effective on the air, working in national news vs l...
2025-06-2700 minSurvivor 50 – RobHasAwebsite.comTina Wesson and Rodger Bingham Talk Colby Donaldson | The Survivor 50 FilesTina Wesson and Rodger Bingham Talk Colby Donaldson | The Survivor 50 Files
As Survivor 50 brings together legends from across the decades, it’s time to revisit the history that made them icons. In The Survivor 50 Files, host Brandon Donlon dives deep into the castaway archives — exploring the journey of each player in the Survivor 50 cast in the order they originally played.
With insight from former tribemates, behind-the-scenes stories, and a sharp eye for the game’s evolution, Brandon unpacks what made each of these players memorable and why they earned a spot in the biggest season yet.
2025-06-1700 minChicago UnscriptedLori Lightfoot & Pat Brady - Six Months into Trump 2.0They’re back. Two political heavyweights return to ‘Chicago Unscripted’ to discuss the situation in the Middle East, immigration protests, ICE raids, the National Guard, sanctuary city status, DOGE, Elon, tariffs, the big beautiful bill, and more.
2025-06-161h 00Chicago UnscriptedWillie Geist - 'Morning Joe' & 'Sunday Today' HostThere is a lot of Chicago & Illinois in Geist family history. Willie was born in Evanston and says Chicago still feels like home. He talks about his roots here, and his relationship with his dad. Bill Geist was a humorist for the Chicago Tribune before a 31 year career at CBS. We dive into the book he wrote with his dad, and Bill's fight today with Parkinson's. Plus, his favorite interviews, why he still roots for the Illini, the current state of the media, and the Trump administration's lawsuit against 60 minutes.
2025-06-0159 minChicago UnscriptedLee Loughnane - Trumpeter & Co-founder of the Band "Chicago"It is one of the most popular and successful bands of all time, and it started in the music school at DePaul University in 1967. Lee Loughnane was the trumpet player when “Chicago Transit Authority” started playing cover songs in Chicago bars. He talks about how the city of Chicago forced them to change their name, the process behind many of their hits, and getting stoned with Jimi Hendrix in a Holiday Inn. Lee also opens up about the painful and tragic death of lead singer Terry Kath, at the height of the band’s popularity.
2025-05-2044 minChicago UnscriptedJohn Vincent - National anthem voice of the Chicago CubsIf you're a Cubs fan, you've seen him. John Vincent specializes in Sinatra, but also sings the national anthem for the Cubs. Former Bears coach Mike Ditka and his wife Diana gave John his big break at the age of 28. John talks about growing up in a tight knit Italian family on the South side, the loss of Bears legend and good friend Steve 'Mongo' McMichael, and the supportive tweet from Lady Gaga that gave him a new mission in his battle with OCD.
2025-05-0653 minChicago UnscriptedSteven Moore - A key GOP operative on why the US shouldn't abandon UkraineHe's considered one of the most influential, behind the scenes republican advocates for Ukraine. Where did he lose the GOP and can he get the party back where he thinks it should be - solidly behind Ukraine? The Chief of Staff for former Illinois Republican Congressman Peter Roskam shares what he thinks about those supporting Russia in the war. How should President Trump, Europe, and the world handle Vladimir Putin? What's ahead for the negotiations to end the war? And how will this look when it's over?
2025-03-2338 minChicago UnscriptedArne Duncan - The fate of the Department of EducationArne Duncan knows education, and he has the resume to prove it. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from Harvard, ran Chicago Public Schools, and became the Secretary of Education under his good friend, Barack Obama. He shares his thoughts on President Trump’s efforts to eliminate the department, the importance of that federal money, and what might happen without it. The Hyde Park native has spent the last nine years working to reduce gun violence in Chicago. He also shares a powerful and inspirational full circle story of forgiveness and resurrection involving the 1984 shooting death of Benji Wilson, a yo...
2025-03-0933 minChicago UnscriptedJim WilliamsIf it happened in Chicago over the past 50 years, Jim Williams probably either saw it, covered it as a reporter, or has a story somehow connected to it. Jim recently stepped away from his full time anchoring duties at CBS News Chicago. He shares his insights about the media, his beloved Cubs, his time as press secretary for Richard M. Daley, and the job he had as a teenager that became the foundation for everything that followed.
2025-02-2545 minChicago UnscriptedErnest Crim III - Unpacking the Super Bowl halftime showThere was the music, and then there were the messages. Historian Ernest Crim III admits even people in the stadium probably missed at least some of the embedded meanings sprinkled throughout Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show. Mr. Crim breaks down the symbolism, social issues, racial references, and the myriad opinions of the performance.
2025-02-1248 minChicago UnscriptedShemekia CopelandThe Washington Post calls Shemekia Copeland, ‘The greatest blues singer of her generation.’ Ahead of this year’s Grammys, Shemekia joins ‘Chicago Unscripted’ to talk about her eight nominations, including three this year. Chicago based Alligator Records signed her at just 18. She reminisces about the early days of her career in Chicago, and the many music legends she has performed with. Shemekia shares stories of the rich history of the blues in Chicago, and growing up with her famous father, Johnny Copeland, one of the best guitarists in blues history.
2025-01-2836 minChicago UnscriptedLarissa MayLarissa May has become a leading voice on the dangers of social media and technology for our children. And she's just 30 years old. She grew up in the suburbs, and says social media was her first addiction - at the age of 10. Her mental health hit rock bottom at Vanderbilt University. But that's when she decided to make a change. It has lead to a thriving business aimed at creating a seat belt for the next generation of parents and children as they navigate the treacherous waters of today's online world.
2025-01-1647 minChicago UnscriptedGary SiniseThe role of Lt. Dan changed his life. But long before the release of ‘Forrest Gump,’ actor Gary Sinise had a deep appreciation for the nation’s military veterans. Gary talks about growing up in Highland Park, co-founding Steppenwolf Theater, and the incredible work he’s doing with his Gary Sinise Foundation. Gary also talks about the painful loss of his son, his latest mission to keep Mac’s legacy alive, and the WWII book we both think everyone should read.
2025-01-0159 minChicago UnscriptedOrly KGHave you ever taken a leap of faith? Made a decision that completely changed your future? Orly KG has - a few times. And her latest pivot has her in a world she never could have imagined just a couple of years ago. A successful Chicago business owner, Orly found herself in the bathroom of a comedy club, when a flyer on the wall changed the direction of her life and career. Orly shares her journey from that bathroom, to telling jokes at PTA meetings, to an appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show where she shared the stage with...
2024-12-1144 minChicago UnscriptedBill KurtisWhen Bill Kurtis was cast as the narrator in the news spoof, "Anchorman," there was one word he wouldn't say. He was worried the role would be a career ender. It was just the opposite. Now he admits he'll say pretty much anything. And he has. The legendary CBS network and Chicago anchor has covered some of the biggest stories of a generation, hosted hundreds of true crime documentaries, and currently stars in the NPR news quiz show, "Wait, Wait.. Don't Tell Me." There's the Voice of God. And then there's Bill Kurtis.
2024-11-2147 minChicago UnscriptedMitchell BisschopHe took on everyone from Frank Sinatra, to Mayor Richard J. Daley, the machine, the mob, and more. The late Mike Royko is one of the most famous journalists to call Chicago home. He wrote a daily column for 30 years, butting heads with the rich and powerful while representing every day Chicagoans. During the pandemic, actor Mitchell Bisschop decided to write a one man play using Royko’s columns to bring his impact on the city to life. Mitchell joins ‘Chicago Unscripted’ to discuss his hometown of Chicago, how he discovered Royko, my encounter with his mom, and his show...
2024-11-1445 minChicago UnscriptedLori Lightfoot & Pat Brady: Election EditionWhich of my guests thinks Joe Biden should pardon Donald Trump? We also discuss what went wrong with the Harris campaign, and what the Trump campaign did right. What happens now with immigration? Foreign policy? What are the takeaways moving forward for each party? The two former prosecutors also weigh in on the new Cook County State's Attorney and what will change from the Kim Foxx era.
2024-11-0651 minChicago UnscriptedColin CowherdColin Cowherd has an opinion. But he doesn’t have an opinion on your opinion of his opinion. I’ve known Colin since 1997 when we worked together in local television in Portland, Oregon. We’ve remained great friends through his rise to the top of the sports talk radio world. Colin has had a home in Chicago for several years. His wife is from here. Is he about to move his show, ‘The Herd” to Chicago? Is Caleb Williams the real deal? We cover the Bears, the future of linear television, a controversial Olympic boxer, and his viral comments about Donal...
2024-11-0140 minChicago UnscriptedJarrett PaytonWalter Payton is one of the greatest football players in NFL history. His legacy lives on in Chicago and beyond. In this episode, Walter’s son Jarrett walks us through the life of his legendary father, and the emotional final few months before his untimely death. It’s a deeply personal conversation about what Walter Payton meant to the city of Chicago. And what Chicago, to this day, has meant to the Payton family.
2024-10-2547 min
Chicago UnscriptedBob CostasBob Costas is synonymous with NBC Sports. For 40 years, he has been the voice of some of the most iconic moments in sports. From the Olympics, to NFL and NBA, he has had a front row seat to sports history. Before that, he was the voice of the Chicago Bulls on WGN in 1979. In the first episode of “Chicago Unscripted,’ Costas covers everything from politics, to his classic call of ‘The Sandberg Game,’ his memories of Harry Caray, the 1972 Olympics, his exit from NBC, and his Mount Rushmore of sports broadcasters.
2024-10-1847 min
The Jody Maberry ShowHelp Others Find Sunset Moments"When you design for the human experience, people feel it, and it becomes meaningful for them." Key Moments 01:03 Lee Cockerell's remarkable journey resonates with all. 04:24 New generation of park professionals prioritize purpose. 07:35 Need for new productivity definitions in the workplace. 10:48 Transitions in professional industry and focus. Connect with Chris Donlon Insights website Chris Trout on LinkedIn Learn About Disney Aspire Connect with Jody www.jodymaberry.com About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/ Inst...
2024-08-1415 min
Morning GoodThe Brunch Club - Episode 217James Donlon and Joe Jacques join the show for today's episode. They talk about letting go of what people think, the Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show, and whether Charlamagne tha God is autistic.Thanks to James and Joe for coming back on the show. You can find them both on previous episodes and check out their links below for more info. James is on Instagram @jamesdonlon_ and YouTube @jamesdonlon_. Joe Is on Instagram @joejaxcomedy and has content out on YouTube with Christophe Jean @jeanjax7541.As always, find Michael Good on Instagram @michaelgoodcomedy and on...
2024-04-2159 min
Bad GaysJoe Orton and Kenneth Halliwell
Warning: this episode contains discussions of domestic violence, child sexual abuse, and suicide. Listener discretion is advised.
A rare twofer this week on our show: we discuss the lives and careers of Joe Orton and Kenneth Halliwell. Both frustrated writers from the North of England making their way in the repressive, damp climate of the postwar UK, they were sent to prison for defacing library books into brilliant collage art. But when Orton achieved fame and success, the pressure was too much for Halliwell to bear. And their disturbing pattern of traveling to Tunisia to abuse children c...
2024-02-201h 05
The Clemson DubcastBrad BrownellIt’s been a busy summer for Brad Brownell, who’s preparing for his 14th season at Clemson.
He and assistant Billy Donlon pulled off the coup of landing Syracuse guard Joe Girard out of the transfer portal.
Then Brownell waited anxiously as a fully-healthy P.J. Hall turned the heads of NBA scouts who were evaluating him during various combines and workouts.
Hall recently elected to return to Clemson for the 2023-24 season, and his pairing with Girard gives Clemson the ACC’s top two returning scorers in conference play from last season.
2023-07-051h 17
PDX Media Good Old DaysJoe DonlonJoe Donlon is one of the eight, male main news anchors in the history of KGW-TV (Richard Ross, John North, Ralph Wenge, Bill Lagatutta, Pete Schulberg, Steve Abrams, Jim Benneman-- only one of them was jerk, and I never met Ross, or North. I have no idea who the current main, male anchor is at KGW. The main women anchors over time have been Robin Chapman, Kathy Smith, Tracy Barry, Carol Jensen, and Laurel Porter-- They were all very nice.) BACK TO JOE. He was a stellar news anchor and newsroom leader for 21 years. He’s also a wo...
2021-08-1333 min
Large Marge Sent UsMy Cousin VinnyHAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEETIE!!!! Lil Ole Sweetie turned the big 3-5 this weekend, and while she celebrated all week the piece de resistance is definitely getting to watch her favorite court room comedy of all time, My Cousin Vinny! Holy hella this movie is funny and perhaps is most known for Marisa Tomei's star turn and OSCAR win for playing Miss Mona Lisa Vito, a wearer of tight dresses but also a whiz at car mechanics! We love her and this movie about two recent NYU grads (one is Ralph Maccio aka Danielson) who find themselves taking a r...
2018-05-211h 18Large Marge Sent UsGroundhog DayDisney once again thwarted our podcasting plans and wouldn't let us easily rent and stream Sleeping Beauty, so we watched Groundhog Day instead! As far plan B's go, Groundhog Day is the bees knees. Starring the beloved Bill Murray, Groundhog Day taught us many valuable lessons including but not limited to: How to easily rob an armored bank truck, Sweet Vermouth is gross, and that you should never get in the shower and then turn on the faucet. We'll discuss how the Phil Connors Suicide reel terrified us as kids, how Phil Connors is pretty much just a regular...
2017-05-2954 min