In this episode, Tonika Lewis Johnson, a Chicago native and social justice artist, discusses her impactful work, including the Folded Map Project, which visualizes segregation in Chicago. Tonika talks about her latest project, Unblocked Englewood, and the day she learned she was selected to be Chicago’s next MacArthur ‘Genius’ Fellow.

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In this special year-end episode of "Notes from Chicago," Ashley and podcast producer Tanisha Blakely reflect on things they love and hate about Chicago. Join them as they share memorable moments from past guests. Don't miss out on this final episode of the year before the show returns in January 2026!

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In this episode of Notes from Chicago, we're joined by Chef Nicolai Mlodinow and Shreena Amin of the fine dining restaurant Class Act in Bucktown. The two discuss the restaurant's unique dinner-party experience and the importance of connection and storytelling in its culinary approach.

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In this episode, Myesha McCaskill shares her journey of connecting people through the joy of skating. The dynamic founder of Inspired by Favor talks about her early days as a skate guard in Chicago to hosting international workshops.

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In this episode, Chris Smith shares his ambitious plan to run 48 half marathons across 48 states in 24 months, starting in January 2026. Chris discusses his organization, The Live Your Dreams Foundation, his community work to fight hunger, and his favorite places to run in Chicago.

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In this week's episode of Notes from Chicago, Ashley sits down with Dr. Mimi Guiracocha, a Rapid Response team lead at PUÑO (Pilsen Unidos por Nuestro Orgullo). Mimi discusses the increased presence of ICE and federal agents in Chicago and how neighbors are working together to fight back against dehumanizing and aggressive immigration policies.

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Chicago's taxi wars were a violent struggle for dominance in the 1920s. In this week's episode, Ashley talks to Anne Morrissy, author of 'Street Fight: The Chicago Taxi Wars of the 1920s.' They explore the rise of Yellow Cab, Anne's personal connection to the violent past, and modern parallels with today's rideshare services.

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Ferrara Candy Company has a rich Chicago history dating back to 1908. In this episode of Notes from Chicago, Ashley interviews John Conversa, a senior director of manufacturing at Ferrara, who shares his extensive experience in the candy industry.

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