Best Ben Joravsky Podcasts (2024)

1
Miles Kampf-Lassin—“Kamala Day" 1:02:39

2h ago1:02:39

1:02:39

Biden to Harris. Ben riffs. Miles Kampf-Lassin talks Biden, Harris, Gaza, Bernie, AOC, Sean O’Brien at the MAGA convention. And more. Miles is an editor/writer at In These Times. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.…

1
Tom Near—North Side Without Money 1:04:25

12h ago1:04:25

1:04:25

Tom Near is a professor of Evolutionary Biology at Yale University—and the chair of the department. But back in the 1980s, he was a gang member in a rough-and-tumble neighborhood near Diversey and Clybourn on the North Side. Yes, kiddies—there was a time before gentrification on the North Side. Tom talks about how he and the neighborhood changed. H…

1
Maya Goldberg-Safir and Alissa Hirsh—-The W Crossroad 49:33

2d ago49:33

49:33

Maya Goldberg-Safir and Alissa Hirsh talk all things WNBA, including…the difference between men and women as sports fans. Male fragility in the press box. And where the league is going. Maya blogs about the Sky. And Alissa covers the Sky for The Next. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com…

1
Rummana Hussain--Usha's Role 1:04:16

12h ago1:04:16

1:04:16

Rummana Hussain explains Usha Vance's role in the Trump/Vance campaign. That is--she's using her background as an Indian-American woman to convince voters her husband, Senator JD Vance, is not a racist even if he's running with Trump. Good luck with that. Also, the roles of spouses in the campaigns of their spouses. Don't get Ben started on Bill Cl…

1
Meredith Shiner—The Freak Show 1:07:57

3h ago1:07:57

1:07:57

With the Freak Show having just ended, Meredith Shiner turns her attention to the shit show that’s ongoing. That is, MAGA’s twisted cult-like convention is over while the Dems frantic efforts to convince President Biden to step down continues. Meredith is a communications consultant and longtime Washington DC political reporter. See Privacy Policy …

1
Brendan Shiller—Back in Chicago 49:45

15h ago49:45

49:45

With all eyes on the presidential race, Ben shifts his attention back to Chicago. At least for today. Brendan joins Ben to talk…Musical committee chairs in the council. Why do some alders hate on Byron Sigcho Lopez? What does the zoning committee chair do and why do we need a mayoral ally to do it? Aldermanic privilege— myth or reality? And the sho…

1
Jim Coogan—COVID and JD 1:03:56

6d ago1:03:56

1:03:56

Gotta give JD Vance credit—he’s a great apple polisher. Ben riffs. Jim Coogan riffs on Ben’s riff. Meet Peter Thiel. On other topics… Is a case of COVID President Biden’s exit excuse? Jim explains how the MAGA Supremes teamed up with Judge Cannon to enable Trump to avoid trials until after the election, if he faces trials at all. Jim is a trial law…

1
Monroe Anderson—-Washington Slept Here 58:01

7d ago58:01

58:01

The Tribune calls Ben “great”. Ben riffs. Then Ben and Monroe talk some local news—should Mayor Johnson remove the George Washington statue from City Hall? How about replacing it with a statue of Hercules Posey? Then it’s on to national news. The Trump shooting, the MAGA convention, JD Vance. And more… See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privac…

1
Denali Dasgupta—"Too Much Reality" 1:03:32

1d ago1:03:32

1:03:32

A lot of things happened this weekend—to put it mildly. Ben riffs on everything from the Trump shooting to Vance as VP to Amber Rose as MAGA spokeswoman to opening night of MAGA’s convention. Denali Dasgupta tells you what you need to know about the 2025 Project blueprint—a document she read so you won’t have to. Also, the Denali Book Club examines…

1
Alderman David Moore—The Lion and the Jackass 48:27

7d ago48:27

48:27

Alderman David Moore camps out in a tent in his ward as a tactic to fight violence. Ben riffs. And Alderman Moore explains what he’s doing with that tent and why. Also, he talks ShotSpotter and his defer-and-publish showdown with Alderman Daniel La Spata. And he offers a parable about the Lion, the Jackass and blue grass that’s especially relevant …

1
Mueze Bawany—Biden and Basketball 1:08:02

6h ago1:08:02

1:08:02

Mueze Bawany takes on all the issues. Talking…Biden and Dems. Fascism and Trump. Bears on the eve of the season. Men and women as basketball fans. And Ben’s beloved Bulls. A high school football coach and unapologetic lefty, Mueze is Chicago’s foremost authority on football. Aside from his inexplicable attraction to the Knicks, he also knows a thin…

1
David Faris—Coattail Catastrophe 1:02:41

5h ago1:02:41

1:02:41

David Faris spares no details pointing out the ripple effect if Trump beats Biden in a landslide—the White House, House and Senate. And the Supreme Court, which MAGA already controls. In short, Trump’s coattails. David is a political science professor at Roosevelt University and a columnist for Slate and Newsweek. His views are his own. See Privacy…

1
Rummana Hussain—In Denial 1:02:07

2h ago1:02:07

1:02:07

As Rummana Hussain and Ben sat down to talk, it was the day after an excessive night of Fourth of July fireworks as Americans ostensibly celebrate their independence from one king, while preparing to elect another. Then President Biden declared he was staying in the race regardless of what anyone thought of said. Oh, brother. Is everyone supposed t…

1
Kina Collins—"Good News" 1:12:04

16h ago1:12:04

1:12:04

Hey, Dems, look on the bright side—at least people are paying attention to Biden. Ben riffs. Kina Collins breaks down the election—crazies, cowards and the couch. Who’s on the couch and why. And everything wrong with Dems with the Cisneros-Cuellar congressional race as exhibit A. That said, Kina says—please, vote against Trump! Also, some unsolicit…

1
Tara Dickman and Laurie Glenn—“As In France" 1:03:39

2d ago1:03:39

1:03:39

Laurie and Tara explain what’s going on in France, politically speaking, and what it means for politics right here in the USA. A must listen to learn the basics of French politics and to hear Ben butcher the pronunciation of Macron, Le Pen, Bardella, Melenchon and a few other French names. Stick around as Ben and Laurie debate Biden and Harris. Sho…

1
Monroe Anderson—“Nancy Weighs In" 1:05:18

3d ago1:05:18

1:05:18

Nancy Pelosi gives a master class in passive aggressiveness as she more or less gently tries to tell President Biden it’s time to step down. Ben riffs. Monroe Anderson seconds that motion. Again, more or less. And then explains why some people are reluctant to endorse Kamala Harris. Also, why won’t Chicago admit that NASCAR is a bust. See Privacy P…

1
Peter Cunningham —“Back In Time" 1:02:38

8d ago1:02:38

1:02:38

Biden in 2023 = Daley in 2006. Ben riffs. He can’t help himself! Always making everything about Chicago politics. Speaking of which, Peter Cunningham riffs on Ben’s riff. Going back to his ‘06 Daley talking points as though time has stopped. Then he explains why he’s sticking with Joe. And what Biden has to do to beat Trump. Also, a few words about…

1
Chris Pennant—The Sky Way 1:01:48

4d ago1:01:48

1:01:48

Chris Pennant ponders a few of the big bball political questions of the day, including…what is it that makes basketball-hating, hockey-loving, Trump-voting MAGA men fall in love with Caitlin Clark? Also, why are the experts who run the Bulls and the Sky incapable of signing any player who can shoot the three? Is this some kinda perverse Chicago thi…

1
A Chicago Legend—Edward "Buzz" Palmer 1:04:48

5d ago1:04:48

1:04:48

1
Julie Lynn—The Ballot Game 59:19

12d ago59:19

59:19

Julie Lynn explains why ballot initiatives on abortion are not quite the game changers Dems think they are. As if Dems didn’t have enough problems. More to the point, they will not protect abortion as a right once Trump gets elected and bows to the zealots and bans it. Julie is a communications consultant. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/pr…

1
Pat Whalen-"HELLLLLLP" 1:13:58

12d ago1:13:58

1:13:58

Ben and Pat try to keep their sanity in the face of utter madness. Including, some Dems bright idea about what to do to save President Biden’s campaign. It is…AI to create a new and improved Joe Biden. Ben says it’s a weak attempt at satire. Pat says, no, the dude is serious. And that may be the least of things. Pat is a comedian, actor and impresa…

1
Chicago Legend—Ken Davis 43:23

9d ago43:23

43:23

After 9 years as Host, Ken Davis announced that he is ending his Chicago Newsroom on CAN TV. Join us as we look back at the highlights with the man himself. It's our dear friend Kenny D, Ken Davis on this Saturday. Originally ran May, 2019. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do…

1
Monroe Anderson—“Ralph Weighs In" 1:00:01

10d ago1:00:01

1:00:01

Ralph Nader blames Hillary Clinton for the MAGA supremes devious. Ben riffs. Then Monroe talk all things Biden. In other words…should he resign? Can he when in his demented state? And more… See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.…

1
Andrew Schneider—“The Professor’s Balm" 1:08:17

15d ago1:08:17

1:08:17

In the aftermath of the debate debacle, Professor Alan Lichtman has a message that’s soothing and seductive for pain -stricken Dems. Ben riffs. Then Andrew riffs. Then Ben riffs on Andrew’s riff. Soon they’re riffing on all things national politics even though they intended to talk preservation in Chicago. Andrew asks: how can you get voters to car…

1
Mary Wisniewski—The Great Mr. Algren 38:06

11d ago38:06

38:06

1
Dave McKinney—just Call It A Gratuity 36:12

12d ago36:12

36:12

1
David Faris—Oh, No, Joe 1:02:42

20d ago1:02:42

1:02:42

In the aftermath of Thursdays disastrous presidential debate, David Faris explains what Dems must do to remove President Biden from the ticket, recognizing that they probably won’t do it. He tries hard not to say—I told you so. David is a political science professor at Roosevelt University and a columnist for Slate and Newsweek. His views are his o…

1
Meredith Shiner—“Disaster" 1:14:28

15d ago1:14:28

1:14:28

Biden and Trump have a debate, if that’s what you call last night’s debacle. Ben riffs. Meredith Shiner explains how we arrived at a point where our choice comes down to a corrupt fascist and an incoherent old man. Also, a few words about CNN, MSNBC, Rachel Maddow, Kamala Harris, Biden’s inner circle, Dems and a word of advice for Democrats: we mus…

1
Delmarie Cobb—“Much to Discuss” 1:06:12

16d ago1:06:12

1:06:12

Dan Mihalopoulos writes a column explaining how Ed Burke sorta tried to win him over with ear muffs. Ben riffs. Delmarie Cobb explains why it will take more than ear muffs for her to forgive Burke for what he did to Mayor Washington. Delmarie also talks Jamaal Bowman, what Biden has to do to win the election and why she welcomes democracy to the ci…

1
Monroe Anderson—"Just In” 1:03:29

22d ago1:03:29

1:03:29

The Supremes accidentally release a ruling on abortion. Accidentally, huh? Ben riffs. Monroe is even more skeptical about the Supreme’s accident than Ben is. Monroe talks AIPAC and Jamaal Bowman. Pretty cynical move, AIPAC. A few words about Reese and Clark and Magic and Bird and Ali and Frazier. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and …

1
Sarah Bingaman—“Prison Stripes" 1:01:12

18d ago1:01:12

1:01:12

Burke’s sentencing judge chastizes Danny Solis. Ben riffs. And Sarah Bingaman returns! Talking Blue politics from Red country Illinois. Sarah is a political activist from Lee County. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.…

1
Jeff Jenkins—MAGA Psychos 51:25

19d ago51:25

51:25

Jeff Jenkins on MAGA Governor Kristi Noem, who claims to have killed her 14-month-old puppy for basically the high crime of being a14-month-old puppy. It’s pretty obvious Noem thinks killing a puppy will convince Trump to choose her as his running mate. But did she actually kill the puppy or did she make up the dog-killing story to impress Trump? J…

1
Jason Dones—School Board Democracy 45:53

20d ago45:53

45:53

Jason Dones is running for school board from a district on Chicago’s northwest side. He explains the process and talks the issues, including: charters, budgets, police in schools and handouts to Bears (yes, it would come from CPS). The election is in November. Welcome to democracy, Chicago. You’re only about 100 years late to the game. See Privacy …

1
David Faris—Supreme Law 59:30

21d ago59:30

59:30

David Faris explains the alliance between MAGA judges and Trump, the MAGA man. Starting with Justice Alito flying his flag upside down, in solidarity with the insurrection. A few words about the polls. And how the NYT covers politics. David is a professor of political science at Roosevelt University and a political columnist for Slate and Newsweek.…

1
Rummana Hussain—Journalistic No Nos 56:48

22d ago56:48

56:48

Turns out the New York Times prohibits reporters from participating in protest marches. Rummana Hussain analyzes what’s that all about. A word or two about Milwaukee and Chicago. And the Sympathizer. Rummana is an editorial writer and columnist for the Sun-Times. Her views are her own. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California …

1
Joanna Klonsky—"Editor's Note” 1:05:16

23d ago1:05:16

1:05:16

The Sun-Times feels compelled to add an editor’s note to a story about the boss. No, not Bruce Springsteen—the chairman of the board boss. No, not Sinatra. Ben riffs. Then Joanna riffs on Ben’s riff. And then they’re off… talkIng abortion rights, national politics and, Ben being Ben, basketball. Joanna is a political strategist. Her views are her o…

1
Dr. Allison Cowett—"Good Job, Chicago" 1:07:39

23d ago1:07:39

1:07:39

Chicago takes a segregationist’s name off of one public school and puts RBG’s on another. Ben riffs. Dr. Cowett talks abortion rights. The impact on Chicago when MAGA states outlaw abortion. What to say to Fox News talking heads when they say—hop on a bus. Why MAGA’s assault on abortion rights is a medical crisis. And why Chicago needs a quiet zone…

1
Monroe Anderson--"Milwaukee Sucks" 1:06:19

25d ago1:06:19

1:06:19

Donald Trump hates on Milwaukee. Ben riffs. Monroe Anderson explains why Trump is staying in Chicago and not Milwaukee for the GOP convention, even though the convention is in Milwaukee not Chicago. Then he explains why Charlamagne Tha God is singing a new song about Black voters loving Trump. And then he explains why he believes unnamed WBEZ and S…

1
Mick Dumke—Sherman’s Gift 1:09:57

28d ago1:09:57

1:09:57

Rick Telander teaches aspiring young journalists how to cover TIFs. Ben riffs. Mick Dumke joins the riff. Soon they’re leading a symposium on journalism. Mick then discusses his latest investigative story. It deals with drugs, low income housing, policing and the inability of the CHA to take care of its property. Also, a few words about Sherman Ale…

1
David Faris—Senator’s Son 1:01:07

30d ago1:01:07

1:01:07

David Faris sends out a warning—Trump’s looking for vengeance. But first he, Trump, must figure out his position on abortion. And a few words about Hunter Biden, who’s a classic senator’s son. To paraphrase John Fogarty. David is a political science professor at Roosevelt University and a columnist for Slate and Newsweek. His opinions are his own. …

1
Benny Jay "Short and Sweet" 9:19

30d ago9:19

9:19

Ben gets an unexpected turn of events that leaves him asking—what would Joe do? Joe as in Rogan. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

1
Sarah Garza Resnick—“Trick or Treated" 45:52

1M ago45:52

45:52

Eric Zorn has a good response to pearl clutches, like Ben, who thought it was unfair for a movie maker to entrap the Alitos. Ben riffs. And Sarah Garza Resnick talks all things abortion rights. Including Trump’s attempts to bamboozle voters with his leave it up to the state’s ploy. And how the MAGA justices tried to defuse the abortion issue to hel…

1
Monroe Anderson—“Geezers Go!" 57:31

1M ago57:31

57:31

North Dakota voters ban geezers—sorta. Ben riffs. Monroe Anderson talks Trump’s senility, Biden’s age, Alito’s recording, Hunter’s conviction, Democrat’s timidity, Burke’s sentencing and Mayor Johnson’s haircuts. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.…

1
Miles Kampf-Lassin—-“Hunter's Turn" 1:02:51

1M ago1:02:51

1:02:51

Hunter Biden is convicted. Ben riffs. Miles Kampf-Lassin talks hard right election gains in Europe. Netanyahu’s tactics. Billionaires make their move for Trump—so much for democracy. Labor after the UAW vote in Alabama. And this being the Ben show…a few words about Caitlin Clark. Miles is an editor/writer for In TheseTimes. See Privacy Policy at ht…

1
Stacy Davis Gates—Up Against It 1:01:29

1M ago1:01:29

1:01:29

MAGA Chicago loves Ben as long as they find him useful, Ben riffs. Stacy Davis Gates talks contract negotiations, legacy media, Bears stadium and more. Including a few words about Anthony Edwards. Stacy is the president of the Chicago Teachers Union. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/…

1
Adolfo Mondragon—Wife Blamers 1:03:01

1M ago1:03:01

1:03:01

Adolfo explains the latest trend in excuse making—blame the wife! Not only Justice Alito but Senator Menendez from New Jersey. Also, a few words about Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s president elect. And Trump and Burke updates. Adolfo Mondragon is a lawyer in Chicago. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at htt…

1
Rummana Hussain—Makeupgate 1:00:43

1M ago1:00:43

1:00:43

Rummana Hussain covers it all, including…Mayor Johnson’s $30,000 a year grooming bill; the presidential election in India, Caitlin Clark and Larry David. Rummana is an editorial writer/columnist for the Sun-Times. Her views are her own. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not…

1
Thaer Ahmad—Gaza Update 50:51

1M ago50:51

50:51

Dr. Thaer Ahmad offers a first-hand account of the desperation in Gaza as Israel continues its bombardment. And he explains the politics at play—in Israel and Washington. Thaer is an emergency room doctor in the suburbs who has worked in hospitals in Gaza over the last few months. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Priva…

1
Jim Coogan-"Hunter On The Stand" 1:04:57

1M ago1:04:57

1:04:57

The feds prosecuting Hunter Biden on gun charges. Ben riffs. Jim Coogan talks Hunter Biden prosecution. And then takes the deep dive on Trump’s hush money trial. Including why Trump didn’t take the stand. Jim is a trial lawyer in Chicago. He hosts his own podcast, Coogan Knows The Law. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California …

1
Kady McFadden—“New Trial" 55:03

1M ago55:03

55:03

Now Ed Burke wants a new trial? Ben riffs. Then he promises not to talk about the WNBA. Then he breaks that promise. Ben can’t help himself. Kady McFadden gives you the A to Z on the latest environmental news. Including…carbon capture legislation in Illinois. Gas stove ordinance in Chicago. And whether this country is ready to revolt against the MA…

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Ben Joravsky Podcasts

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