On today's show
– Chris Fitzsimon, host of the Stories from the States podcast
– “Out Chicago” host Scott Duff and film critic Rebecca Ford with their monthly look at TV, movies, theater and more

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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On today's show &ndash; Chris Fitzsimon, host of the <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/podcast/stories-states">Stories from the States podcast</a> &ndash; &ldquo;<a href="https://heartlandsignal.com/programs/out-chicago/">Out Chicago</a>&rdquo; host Scott Duff and film critic Rebecca Ford with their monthly look at TV, movies, theater and more
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Joan Esposito: Live, Local & Progressive | October 30, 2026

On today's show
– Ron Roberts, host of “The Ron Show,” a political talk show now airing on Heartland Signal station WMLB Atlanta
– Melissa Bean, Democratic candidate for Congress in the 8th District of Illinois
– Ian Karbal and Peter Hall, state government reporters for the Pennsylvania Capital-Star
– Andrew Grunwald, vice president of Political Strategy at The States Project, and Melissa Walker, principal strategist, Giving Circles, at The States Project
– Heartland Signal reporters Elinor Epperson and Kori Skillman

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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On today's show &ndash; Ron Roberts, host of &ldquo;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ron-show/id1654073158?uo=4">The Ron Show</a>,&rdquo; a political talk show now airing on Heartland Signal station WMLB Atlanta &ndash; <a href="https://www.melissabeanforcongress.com/">Melissa Bean</a>, Democratic candidate for Congress in the 8th District of Illinois &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/author/ikarbal">Ian Karbal</a> and <a href="https://penncapital-star.com/author/phall">Peter Hall</a>, state government reporters for the Pennsylvania Capital-Star &ndash; Andrew Grunwald, vice president of Political Strategy at <a href="https://statesproject.org/">The States Project</a>, and Melissa Walker, principal strategist, Giving Circles, at <a href="https://statesproject.org/">The States Project</a> &ndash; Heartland Signal reporters <a href="https://heartlandsignal.com/author/elinor/">Elinor Epperson</a> and <a href="https://heartlandsignal.com/author/kori/">Kori Skillman</a>
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Joan Esposito: Live, Local & Progressive | October 29, 2026

On today's show
– Dr. Elicia John, behavioral scientist and assistant professor of marketing at American University in Washington, D.C., and Dr. Lez Trujillo Torres, consumer researcher and assistant professor of marketing at University of Illinois Chicago; together they have authored a recent study on the U.S. census
– George D. Strickland, recently retired Lake County associate judge for the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit Court of Lake County
– U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley, Democrat of Illinois
– U.S. Rep. Jonathan Jackson, Democrat of Illinois
– Zev Shalev, founder of Narativ.org, a bestselling news Substack

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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On today's show &ndash; <a href="https://www.american.edu/kogod/faculty/eliciaj.cfm">Dr. Elicia John</a>, behavioral scientist and assistant professor of marketing at American University in Washington, D.C., and <a href="https://business.uic.edu/profiles/trujillo-torres-lez/">Dr. Lez Trujillo Torres</a>, consumer researcher and assistant professor of marketing at University of Illinois Chicago; together they have authored a recent study on the U.S. census &ndash; George D. Strickland, recently retired Lake County associate judge for the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit Court of Lake County &ndash; U.S. <a href="https://quigley.house.gov/">Rep. Mike Quigley</a>, Democrat of Illinois &ndash; U.S. <a href="https://jonathanjackson.house.gov/">Rep. Jonathan Jackson</a>, Democrat of Illinois &ndash; Zev Shalev, founder of <a href="https://www.narativ.org/">Narativ.org</a>, a bestselling news Substack
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Joan Esposito: Live, Local & Progressive | October 28, 2026

On today's show
– Christopher Armitage, author, veteran, former law enforcement officer, activist, policy adviser, and publisher of The Existentialist Republic on Substack; his latest piece is "Would the U.S. Be Better Off as a European Union-Style 'Country of Countries'?"
– Professor Steven D. Schwinn of the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law
– Terry Savage, syndicated personal finance columnist and author

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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On today's show &ndash; Christopher Armitage, author, veteran, former law enforcement officer, activist, policy adviser, and publisher of <a href="https://cmarmitage.substack.com/">The Existentialist Republic</a> on Substack; his latest piece is "<a href="https://cmarmitage.substack.com/p/why-i-want-11000-members-of-the-us">Would the U.S. Be Better Off as a European Union-Style 'Country of Countries'?</a>" &ndash; <a href="https://law.uic.edu/profiles/schwinn-steven/">Professor Steven D. Schwinn</a> of the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law &ndash; <a href="https://www.terrysavage.com/">Terry Savage</a>, syndicated personal finance columnist and author
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Joan Esposito: Live, Local & Progressive | October 27, 2026

Bill Scher

Nicole Foy

Pat Kreitlow

On today's show
– Bill Scher, politics editor at Washington Monthly; his latest articles are “Meet the Democratic Senate Candidates Who Are Overperforming. And Underperforming” and “Kansas? Montana? Mississippi? Where Will the Blue Wave Crest?“
– Nicole Foy, immigration reporter for ProPublica; she recently authored the investigative article, “We Found That More Than 170 U.S. Citizens Have Been Held by Immigration Agents. They’ve Been Kicked, Dragged and Detained for Days“
– Pat Kreitlow, founder and editor of Up North News

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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On today's show &ndash; <a href="https://washingtonmonthly.com/author/bill-scher/">Bill Scher</a>, politics editor at <a href="https://washingtonmonthly.com/">Washington Monthly</a>; his latest articles are &ldquo;<a href="https://washingtonmonthly.com/2026/10/23/meet-the-democratic-senate-candidates-who-are-overperforming-and-underperforming/">Meet the Democratic Senate Candidates Who Are Overperforming. And Underperforming</a>&rdquo; and &ldquo;<a href="https://washingtonmonthly.com/2026/10/20/kansas-montana-mississippi-where-will-the-blue-wave-crest/">Kansas? Montana? Mississippi? Where Will the Blue Wave Crest?</a>&ldquo; &ndash; <a href="https://www.propublica.org/people/nicole-foy">Nicole Foy</a>, immigration reporter for ProPublica; she recently authored the investigative article, &ldquo;<a href="https://www.propublica.org/article/immigration-dhs-american-citizens-arrested-detained-against-will">We Found That More Than 170 U.S. Citizens Have Been Held by Immigration Agents. They&rsquo;ve Been Kicked, Dragged and Detained for Days</a>&ldquo; &ndash; <a href="https://upnorthnewswi.com/author/patkreitlow/">Pat Kreitlow</a>, founder and editor of Up North News
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Joan Esposito: Live, Local & Progressive | October 26, 2026

Chris Fitzsimon

Bruce Rheins

On today's show
– Chris Fitzsimon, host of the Stories from the States podcast; a radio version of the podcast now airs on WCPT Sundays at 6:00 p.m. Central
– Bruce Rheins, former CBS Los Angeles deputy bureau chief

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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On today's show &ndash; Chris Fitzsimon, host of the <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/podcast/stories-states">Stories from the States podcast</a>; a radio version of the podcast now airs on WCPT Sundays at 6:00 p.m. Central &ndash; Bruce Rheins, former CBS Los Angeles deputy bureau chief
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Joan Esposito: Live, Local & Progressive | October 23, 2026

Dr. Willie Wilson

Pennie McCoach

William Muck

On today's show Rickey Hendon fills in for Joan and his guests are
– Willie Wilson, 2027 candidate for Chicago mayor
– Pennie McCoach, president and business agent of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 308, which represents rail workers for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)
– William Muck, professor of political science at North Central College

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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On today's show Rickey Hendon fills in for Joan and his guests are &ndash; <a href="https://williewilson2027.com/">Willie Wilson</a>, 2027 candidate for Chicago mayor &ndash; Pennie McCoach, president and business agent of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 308, which represents rail workers for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) &ndash; <a href="https://www.northcentralcollege.edu/profile/wjmuck">William Muck</a>, professor of political science at North Central College
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Joan Esposito: Live, Local & Progressive with guest host Rickey Hendon | October 22, 2026

On today's show Carolyn Fiddler fills in for Joan and her guests are
– Ben Jacobs, reporter
– Chris Mann, Democratic candidate for attorney general of Kansas 
– Heather Williams, president of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC)
– Minnesota Attorney General Keith Elllison, 2026 candidate for re-election
– Tevin Davis, multidisciplinary artist and digital creator whose work spans theater, television, film, comedy, music, political satire, and digital media

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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On today's show&nbsp;<a href="https://statehouseaction.substack.com/">Carolyn Fiddler</a> fills in for Joan and her guests are &ndash; Ben Jacobs, reporter &ndash; <a href="https://chrismannforkansas.com/meet-chris/">Chris Mann</a>, Democratic candidate for attorney general of Kansas &ndash; Heather Williams, president of the <a href="https://www.dlcc.org/">Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee</a> (DLCC) &ndash; <a href="https://www.ag.state.mn.us/office/agbio.asp">Minnesota Attorney General Keith Elllison</a>, 2026 <a href="https://www.keithellison.org/">candidate for re-election</a> &ndash; Tevin Davis, multidisciplinary artist and digital creator whose work spans theater, television, film, comedy, music, political satire, and digital media
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Joan Esposito: Live, Local & Progressive with guest host Carolyn Fiddler | October 21, 2026

Melissa Toufanian

Aaron Kleinman

Richard Chew

Matthew Botvinick

On today's show Mike Nellis fills in for Joan and his guests are
– Aaron Kleinman, Heartland Signal‘s senior political analyst and author of the “Radio Free America” newsletter
– Melissa Toufanian, former State Department deputy assistant secretary who served on the communications team for the original Iran nuclear deal under President Obama, and now serves as managing director at Navigator Research
– Richard Chew, host of “Chew’s Views,” weekday mornings from 6:00 to 8:00 a.m. Central on WCPT, AM 950 The Progressive Voice of Minnesota, KFNN 1510 AM Phoenix, and Atlanta's WMLB AM 1690; the show also airs on WARR in Warren County, North Carolina
– Matthew Botvinick, world-renowned AI researcher and neuroscientist who is senior fellow at Yale Law School, a member of the technical staff at Anthropic, and author of "AI and Political Freedom: The Risk to Democracy and How to Respond" (2026)

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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On today's show <a href="https://endlessurgency.com/">Mike Nellis </a>fills in for Joan and his guests are &ndash; Aaron Kleinman, <a href="https://heartlandsignal.com/">Heartland Signal</a>&lsquo;s senior political analyst and author of the &ldquo;<a href="https://radio-free-america.beehiiv.com/">Radio Free America</a>&rdquo; newsletter &ndash; Melissa Toufanian, former State Department deputy assistant secretary who served on the communications team for the original Iran nuclear deal under President Obama, and now serves as managing director at <a href="https://navigatorresearch.org/">Navigator Research</a> &ndash;&nbsp;Richard Chew, host of &ldquo;<a href="https://heartlandsignal.com/programs/chews-views/">Chew&rsquo;s Views</a>,&rdquo; weekday mornings from 6:00 to 8:00 a.m. Central on WCPT, <a href="https://www.am950radio.com/">AM 950 The Progressive Voice of Minnesota</a>, KFNN 1510 AM Phoenix, and Atlanta's WMLB AM 1690; the show also airs on WARR in Warren County, North Carolina &ndash;&nbsp;Matthew Botvinick, world-renowned AI researcher and neuroscientist who is senior fellow at Yale Law School, a member of the technical staff at Anthropic, and author of "<a href="https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691291215/ai-and-political-freedom?srsltid=AU7gw4XZGx4o2oiJPtCkcYTyNZpAHm3j0ehyw3LF5c3jjT5p_Q1_H_mb">AI and Political Freedom: The Risk to Democracy and How to Respond</a>" (2026)
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Joan Esposito: Live, Local & Progressive with guest host Mike Nellis | October 20, 2026

Amanda Zahorak

Paul Lisnek

Robert Pape

On today's show
– Amanda Zahorak, Democratic candidate for Illinois House District 48
– Paul Lisnek, multi-Emmy Award-winning TV host who served as political and legal analyst at WGN for 18 years; he is also the author of 15 books and host of “Curtain Call Chicago” and “Paul On Politics“
– Robert Pape, professor of Political Science at the University of Chicago specializing in international security affairs, and author of The Escalation Trap on Substack; his new book, “Our Own Worst Enemies: America in the Age of Violent Populism,” came out last month

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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On today's show &ndash; <a href="https://www.zahorakforil48.com/">Amanda Zahorak</a>, Democratic candidate for Illinois House District 48 &ndash; <a href="https://paullisnek.com/">Paul Lisnek</a>, multi-Emmy Award-winning TV host who served as political and legal analyst at WGN for 18 years; he is also the author of 15 books and host of &ldquo;<a href="https://paullisnek.com/curtain-call-chicago">Curtain Call Chicago</a>&rdquo; and &ldquo;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@PaulOnPolitics">Paul On Politics</a>&ldquo; &ndash; <a href="https://political-science.uchicago.edu/directory/Robert-Pape">Robert Pape</a>, professor of Political Science at the University of Chicago specializing in international security affairs, and author of <a href="https://escalationtrap.substack.com/">The Escalation Trap</a> on Substack; his new book, &ldquo;<a href="https://thenewpress.org/books/our-own-worst-enemies/">Our Own Worst Enemies: America in the Age of Violent Populism</a>,&rdquo; came out last month
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Joan Esposito: Live, Local & Progressive | October 19, 2026

From Heartland Signal and WCPT AM 820 in Chicago, here are full episodes of "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" (weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central), a topical and interactive talk show that focuses on national, state and city politics.  

A veteran Chicago broadcaster, Joan talks to politicians and professors, activists and authors, candidates and correspondents, as well as listeners who call in to share their views on the news of the day. Her goal is to Edify, Entertain and Elect — Democrats, of course.    

Joan Esposito has hosted WCPT's afternoon show since 2019. Prior to that she spent 20 years as a Chicago television anchor and reporter for WGN Channel 9, ABC7 and NBC5, and had a stint as managing partner at media trainer J2SC.  Joan is a long-time member of the Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). 

From Heartland Signal and <a href="https://heartlandsignal.com/wcpt820/">WCPT AM 820</a> in Chicago, here are full episodes of "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" (weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central), a topical and interactive talk show that focuses on national, state and city politics. &nbsp;
A veteran Chicago broadcaster, Joan talks to politicians and professors, activists and authors, candidates and correspondents, as well as listeners who call in to share their views on the news of the day. Her goal is to Edify, Entertain and Elect &mdash; Democrats, of course. &nbsp; &nbsp;
Joan Esposito has hosted WCPT's afternoon show since 2019. Prior to that she spent 20 years as a Chicago television anchor and reporter for WGN Channel 9, ABC7 and NBC5, and had a stint as managing partner at media trainer J2SC. &nbsp;Joan is a long-time member of the Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA).&nbsp;

Joan Esposito (Full Episodes)

Joan Esposito is joined by Nicole Foy, immigration reporter for ProPublica; she recently authored the investigative article, "We Found That More Than 170 U.S. Citizens Have Been Held by Immigration Agents. They’ve Been Kicked, Dragged and Detained for Days."

Here are a few highlights from the conversation:
- Foy said ProPublica has documented more than 500 U.S. citizens detained, including more than 100 detained amid questions about citizenship or status; most of that group were people of color.
- The reporting identified more than 60 people who were filming when arrested and more than 70 children caught up in arrests. 
- Reported cases raise concerns about Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, use of force, and First Amendment rights to protest and record officers.
- Identification documents have not always prevented detention, and some people have struggled to recover documents or phones held by the government.
- Foy said body camera use remains uneven, and access to footage is uncertain amid long federal records-request waits.

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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Joan Esposito is joined by <a href="https://www.propublica.org/people/nicole-foy">Nicole Foy</a>, immigration reporter for ProPublica; she recently authored the investigative article, "<a href="https://www.propublica.org/article/immigration-dhs-american-citizens-arrested-detained-against-will">We Found That More Than 170 U.S. Citizens Have Been Held by Immigration Agents. They&rsquo;ve Been Kicked, Dragged and Detained for Days</a>."
Here are a few highlights from the conversation: - Foy said ProPublica has documented more than 500 U.S. citizens detained, including more than 100 detained amid questions about citizenship or status; most of that group were people of color. - The reporting identified more than 60 people who were filming when arrested and more than 70 children caught up in arrests.&nbsp; - Reported cases raise concerns about Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, use of force, and First Amendment rights to protest and record officers. - Identification documents have not always prevented detention, and some people have struggled to recover documents or phones held by the government. - Foy said body camera use remains uneven, and access to footage is uncertain amid long federal records-request waits.
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Nicole Foy of ProPublica: WCPT 820 Interview

Filling in for Joan Esposito, Rickey Hendon is joined by Willie Wilson, 2027 candidate for Chicago mayor.

The interview focused on Wilson’s positions on Chicago taxes, education, economic development, and more. Here are a few highlights from the conversation:
- Wilson opposes the proposed head and delivery taxes, arguing that businesses pass costs on to consumers and that added costs can hurt affordability and jobs.
- He said tariffs had increased his business costs by $800,000 to $900,000 per month and similarly raise consumer prices.
- He advocated suspending gas taxes and described funding repeated gas and food giveaways.
- He called for students to demonstrate reading, writing, and trade skills before advancing grades, and criticized school spending amid low attendance and enrollment.
- He argued Chicago should retain the Bears, citing their economic contribution and the potential benefits of hosting a Super Bowl.
- He presented himself as a pro-business mayoral candidate not beholden to unions or special interests. 

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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Filling in for Joan Esposito, Rickey Hendon is joined by <a href="https://williewilson2027.com/">Willie Wilson</a>, 2027 candidate for Chicago mayor.
The interview focused on Wilson&rsquo;s positions on Chicago taxes, education, economic development, and more. Here are a few highlights from the conversation: - Wilson opposes the proposed head and delivery taxes, arguing that businesses pass costs on to consumers and that added costs can hurt affordability and jobs. - He said tariffs had increased his business costs by $800,000 to $900,000 per month and similarly raise consumer prices. - He advocated suspending gas taxes and described funding repeated gas and food giveaways. - He called for students to demonstrate reading, writing, and trade skills before advancing grades, and criticized school spending amid low attendance and enrollment. - He argued Chicago should retain the Bears, citing their economic contribution and the potential benefits of hosting a Super Bowl. - He presented himself as a pro-business mayoral candidate not beholden to unions or special interests.&nbsp;
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Dr. Willie Wilson: WCPT 820 Candidate Interview 

Filling in for Joan Esposito, Rickey Hendon is joined by Pennie McCoach, president and business agent of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 308, which represents rail workers for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). 

The discussion focused on improving safety for CTA workers and riders, with dedicated transit police presented as a key solution. Here are a few highlights from the conversation:
- McCoach said three transit workers had died in the past 90 days and emphasized that workers and riders need safer conditions.
- She said the contract is up in December, but her immediate priority is safety; the mayor’s budget, as she understood it, included no additional transit security.
- She reported that 50 sheriff’s deputies had been deployed and fewer than 200 CPD officers were assigned to cover the bus and rail system. She said the unions support a dedicated transit police force and questioned renewing the CPD contract without consulting them.
- McCoach cited improvements from the sheriff’s department and said Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart was expected to provide recommendations on dedicated transit police in December. 

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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Filling in for Joan Esposito, Rickey Hendon is joined by Pennie McCoach, president and business agent of the<a href="https://www.atu308.org/"> Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 308</a>, which represents rail workers for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA).&nbsp;
The discussion focused on improving safety for CTA workers and riders, with dedicated transit police presented as a key solution. Here are a few highlights from the conversation: - McCoach said three transit workers had died in the past 90 days and emphasized that workers and riders need safer conditions. - She said the contract is up in December, but her immediate priority is safety; the mayor&rsquo;s budget, as she understood it, included no additional transit security. - She reported that 50 sheriff&rsquo;s deputies had been deployed and fewer than 200 CPD officers were assigned to cover the bus and rail system. She said the unions support a dedicated transit police force and questioned renewing the CPD contract without consulting them. - McCoach cited improvements from the sheriff&rsquo;s department and said Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart was expected to provide recommendations on dedicated transit police in December.&nbsp;
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Pennie McCoach of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 308

Filling in for Joan Esposito, Carolyn Fiddler is joined by Heather Williams, president of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC). 

The interview focused on the DLCC's strategy and the stakes of state legislative elections.
- Heather described strong Democratic momentum, including 31 seats flipped this cycle, while stressing that most voters have not yet voted and campaigns need continued community-level outreach.
- The DLCC’s year-round work includes recruiting candidates, providing campaign tools and fundraising support, and building toward legislative majorities over multiple cycles.
- Potential Democratic trifectas in states including Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, Arizona, and Pennsylvania could shape policy, redistricting, election administration, and the party’s future candidate bench.

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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Filling in for Joan Esposito, Carolyn Fiddler is joined by Heather Williams, president of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dlcc.org/">Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee</a> (DLCC).&nbsp;
The interview focused on the DLCC's strategy and the stakes of state legislative elections. - Heather described strong Democratic momentum, including 31 seats flipped this cycle, while stressing that most voters have not yet voted and campaigns need continued community-level outreach. - The DLCC&rsquo;s year-round work includes recruiting candidates, providing campaign tools and fundraising support, and building toward legislative majorities over multiple cycles. - Potential Democratic trifectas in states including Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, Arizona, and Pennsylvania could shape policy, redistricting, election administration, and the party&rsquo;s future candidate bench.
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Heather Williams of the DLCC: WCPT 820 Interview

Filling in for Joan Esposito, Carolyn Fiddler is joined by Chris Mann, Democratic candidate for attorney general of Kansas.

Mann discussed his priorities as a Democratic candidate and contrasted them with incumbent Kris Kobach’s record. Here are a few highlights from the conversation: 
- Mann described his background as a police officer, prosecutor, and attorney representing victims of drunk driving. He cited the Kansas Fraternal Order of Police endorsement, the first for a Democrat in at least 25 years.
- He said many small law enforcement agencies need more support from the attorney general’s office and Kansas Bureau of Investigation.
- He identified rising domestic violence homicides, underfunded shelters, and youth suicide as key concerns, noting that suicide is the leading cause of death for Kansas children ages 10-17.
- Mann said consumer fraud losses exceeded $30 million in the first half of the year, including increased losses to government-impersonation scams. He proposed public education, coordination with law enforcement partners, and work with telecom and email providers.
- He also called for stronger support for farmers and businesses, and for pursuing federal funds allocated to Kansas.
- Mann said his day-one priority would be refocusing the office on public service and community safety. He criticized Kobach’s record on voting restrictions and said Kansas had not received federal funds he believes it is owed.

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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Filling in for Joan Esposito, Carolyn Fiddler is joined by <a href="https://chrismannforkansas.com/meet-chris/">Chris Mann</a>, Democratic candidate for attorney general of Kansas.
Mann discussed his priorities as a Democratic candidate and contrasted them with incumbent Kris Kobach&rsquo;s record. Here are a few highlights from the conversation:&nbsp; - Mann described his background as a police officer, prosecutor, and attorney representing victims of drunk driving. He cited the Kansas Fraternal Order of Police endorsement, the first for a Democrat in at least 25 years. - He said many small law enforcement agencies need more support from the attorney general&rsquo;s office and Kansas Bureau of Investigation. - He identified rising domestic violence homicides, underfunded shelters, and youth suicide as key concerns, noting that suicide is the leading cause of death for Kansas children ages 10-17. - Mann said consumer fraud losses exceeded $30 million in the first half of the year, including increased losses to government-impersonation scams. He proposed public education, coordination with law enforcement partners, and work with telecom and email providers. - He also called for stronger support for farmers and businesses, and for pursuing federal funds allocated to Kansas. - Mann said his day-one priority would be refocusing the office on public service and community safety. He criticized Kobach&rsquo;s record on voting restrictions and said Kansas had not received federal funds he believes it is owed.
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Chris Mann: WCPT 820 Candidate Interview 

Filling in for Joan Esposito, Carolyn Fiddler is joined by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Elllison, 2026 candidate for re-election. 

The interview focused on Keith Ellison’s record as Minnesota attorney general, his priorities if re-elected, and election protection. Here are a few highlights from the conversation:
- Ellison cited litigation over insulin pricing, SNAP benefits, federal immigration enforcement, and John Deere’s restrictions on farmers repairing equipment.
- He described the office’s role as enforcing existing laws, including consumer protection and antitrust laws.
- He said he would continue work on health care and prescription affordability, antitrust enforcement, technology practices affecting children, and recovery of earned wages.
- He identified farm closures and economic pressures as concerns raised by Minnesotans.
- He said his office and partner organizations are preparing to respond to federal interference or intimidation at the polls.
- He urged people to vote and to encourage others to vote, and report suspected intimidation to officials or civil rights organizations.

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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Filling in for Joan Esposito, Carolyn Fiddler is joined by <a href="https://www.ag.state.mn.us/office/agbio.asp">Minnesota Attorney General Keith Elllison</a>, 2026 <a href="https://www.keithellison.org/">candidate for re-election</a>.&nbsp;
The interview focused on Keith Ellison&rsquo;s record as Minnesota attorney general, his priorities if re-elected, and election protection. Here are a few highlights from the conversation: - Ellison cited litigation over insulin pricing, SNAP benefits, federal immigration enforcement, and John Deere&rsquo;s restrictions on farmers repairing equipment. - He described the office&rsquo;s role as enforcing existing laws, including consumer protection and antitrust laws. - He said he would continue work on health care and prescription affordability, antitrust enforcement, technology practices affecting children, and recovery of earned wages. - He identified farm closures and economic pressures as concerns raised by Minnesotans. - He said his office and partner organizations are preparing to respond to federal interference or intimidation at the polls. - He urged people to vote and to encourage others to vote, and report suspected intimidation to officials or civil rights organizations.
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Minnesota Attorney Gen. Keith Ellison: WCPT 820 Candidate Interview

Filling in for Joan Esposito, Mike Nellis is joined by Matthew Botvinick, world-renowned AI researcher and neuroscientist who is senior fellow at Yale Law School, a member of the technical staff at Anthropic, and author of "AI and Political Freedom: The Risk to Democracy and How to Respond" (2026). 

Prof. Botvinick will be speaking in Chicago on November 11 as part of University Press Week.
The author event will be called “Could AI Put Our Democracy at Risk?” and take place
at the University of Chicago Gleacher Center. A reception will take place from 5:45 to
6:15, followed by the program from 6:15 to 7:30 PM, including interactive activities and
audience Q&A.

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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Filling in for Joan Esposito, Mike Nellis is joined by&nbsp;Matthew Botvinick, world-renowned AI researcher and neuroscientist who is senior fellow at Yale Law School, a member of the technical staff at Anthropic, and author of "<a href="https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691291215/ai-and-political-freedom?srsltid=AU7gw4XZGx4o2oiJPtCkcYTyNZpAHm3j0ehyw3LF5c3jjT5p_Q1_H_mb">AI and Political Freedom: The Risk to Democracy and How to Respond</a>" (2026).&nbsp;
Prof. Botvinick will be speaking in Chicago on November 11 as part of University Press Week. The author event will be called &ldquo;<a href="https://graham.uchicago.edu/event/could-ai-put-our-democracy-at-risk/">Could AI Put Our Democracy at Risk?</a>&rdquo; and take place at the University of Chicago Gleacher Center. A reception will take place from 5:45 to 6:15, followed by the program from 6:15 to 7:30 PM, including interactive activities and audience Q&amp;A.
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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&nbsp;

AI expert and author Matthew Botvinick: WCPT 820 Interview 

Filling in for Joan Esposito, Mike Nellis is joined by Melissa Toufanian, former State Department deputy assistant secretary who served on the communications team for the original Iran nuclear deal under President Obama, and now serves as managing director at Navigator Research.

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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Filling in for Joan Esposito, Mike Nellis is joined by Melissa Toufanian, former State Department deputy assistant secretary who served on the communications team for the original Iran nuclear deal under President Obama, and now serves as managing director at&nbsp;<a href="https://navigatorresearch.org/">Navigator Research</a>.
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Melissa Toufanian of Navigator Research: WCPT 820 Interview

Joan Esposito is joined by Robert Pape, professor of Political Science at the University of Chicago specializing in international security affairs, and author of The Escalation Trap on Substack. His new book, "Our Own Worst Enemies: America in the Age of Violent Populism," came out last month.

Pape and Esposito discussed Ukraine’s military resilience, the risks of escalation, and a Korean-style armistice as a possible path to regional stability. Here are a few highlights from the conversation:
- Pape argued that Ukraine is not likely to collapse simply because U.S. support changes; he highlighted Ukrainian military and drone capabilities.
- He said U.S. intelligence, particularly warnings of incoming missile and drone attacks, is valuable, while European support is increasing but may take time to arrive.
- He described both Putin and Trump as caught in political escalation traps, in which backing down could alienate their core supporters.
- He warned that attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure could intensify retaliation and civilian suffering; he argued that such devastation could make Europeans more fearful of Russia rather than more willing to concede.
- Pape advocated a Korean-style armistice focused on stability along the line of contact, with no European troops in Ukraine, and support conditioned on adherence to that goal.
- He proposed taking Ukraine’s NATO and EU membership off the table while maintaining trade and offering Russia trade incentives tied to respecting the line of contact. 

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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Joan Esposito is joined by <a href="https://political-science.uchicago.edu/directory/Robert-Pape">Robert Pape</a>, professor of Political Science at the University of Chicago specializing in international security affairs, and author of <a href="https://escalationtrap.substack.com/">The Escalation Trap</a> on Substack. His new book, "<a href="https://thenewpress.org/books/our-own-worst-enemies/">Our Own Worst Enemies: America in the Age of Violent Populism</a>," came out last month.
Pape and Esposito discussed Ukraine&rsquo;s military resilience, the risks of escalation, and a Korean-style armistice as a possible path to regional stability.&nbsp;Here are a few&nbsp;highlights from the conversation: - Pape argued that Ukraine is not likely to collapse simply because U.S. support changes; he highlighted Ukrainian military and drone capabilities. - He said U.S. intelligence, particularly warnings of incoming missile and drone attacks, is valuable, while European support is increasing but may take time to arrive. - He described both Putin and Trump as caught in political escalation traps, in which backing down could alienate their core supporters. - He warned that attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure could intensify retaliation and civilian suffering; he argued that such devastation could make Europeans more fearful of Russia rather than more willing to concede. - Pape advocated a Korean-style armistice focused on stability along the line of contact, with no European troops in Ukraine, and support conditioned on adherence to that goal. - He proposed taking Ukraine&rsquo;s NATO and EU membership off the table while maintaining trade and offering Russia trade incentives tied to respecting the line of contact.&nbsp;
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Prof. Robert Pape: WCPT 820 Interview

Joan Esposito is joined by Jen Thompson, former Republican campaign manager, former counsel in the U.S. House and Senate, and author of "Wild Pivot: Notes from a Political Life Rewritten" (2026). 

The conversation examined midterm election expectations, changes in the Republican Party, and Thompson’s departure from GOP politics. Here are a few highlights from the conversation:
- Thompson agreed that predictions of a “blue wave” can encourage complacency; she cautioned that polls can be unreliable and urged people to vote.
- She said the size of any Democratic gains could shape how Republicans respond and affect members’ districts. 
- She expects committed Republicans to double down, while an anti-Trump wing is also emerging; she noted the party has changed significantly from its earlier form.
- A change in House majority brings major staffing and resource shifts, making it difficult for the minority to advance legislation.
- In "Wild Pivot," Thompson describes leaving a successful Republican career after a car accident prompted her to question whether her work aligned with her values.
- She said women are often courted with political messaging that does not address their interests authentically, and that women who challenge expectations can be dismissed as troublemakers.

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

 

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Joan Esposito is joined by Jen Thompson, former Republican campaign manager, former counsel in the U.S. House and Senate, and author of "<a href="https://shewritespress.com/product/wild-pivot/">Wild Pivot: Notes from a Political Life Rewritten</a>" (2026).&nbsp;
The conversation examined midterm election expectations, changes in the Republican Party, and Thompson&rsquo;s departure from GOP politics. Here are a few highlights&nbsp;from the conversation: - Thompson agreed that predictions of a &ldquo;blue wave&rdquo; can encourage complacency; she cautioned that polls can be unreliable and urged people to vote. - She said the size of any Democratic gains could shape how Republicans respond and affect members&rsquo; districts.&nbsp; - She expects committed Republicans to double down, while an anti-Trump wing is also emerging; she noted the party has changed significantly from its earlier form. - A change in House majority brings major staffing and resource shifts, making it difficult for the minority to advance legislation. - In "Wild Pivot," Thompson describes leaving a successful Republican career after a car accident prompted her to question whether her work aligned with her values. - She said women are often courted with political messaging that does not address their interests authentically, and that women who challenge expectations can be dismissed as troublemakers.
Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive">heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive</a>).
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Author Jen Thompson: WCPT 820 Interview

From Heartland Signal and WCPT AM 820 in Chicago, here are featured interviews from "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" (weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central, a topical and interactive talk show that focuses on national, state and city politics.

A veteran Chicago broadcaster, Joan talks to politicians and professors, activists and authors, candidates and correspondents, as well as listeners who call in to share their views on the news of the day. Her goal is to Edify, Entertain and Elect — Democrats, of course.    

Joan Esposito has hosted WCPT's afternoon show since 2019. Prior to that she spent 20 years as a Chicago television anchor and reporter for WGN Channel 9, ABC7 and NBC5, and had a stint as managing partner at media trainer J2SC.  Joan is a long-time member of the Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). 

From Heartland Signal and <a href="https://heartlandsignal.com/wcpt820/">WCPT AM 820</a> in Chicago, here are featured interviews from "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" (weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central, a topical and interactive talk show that focuses on national, state and city politics.
A veteran Chicago broadcaster, Joan talks to politicians and professors, activists and authors, candidates and correspondents, as well as listeners who call in to share their views on the news of the day. Her goal is to Edify, Entertain and Elect &mdash; Democrats, of course. &nbsp; &nbsp;
Joan Esposito has hosted WCPT's afternoon show since 2019. Prior to that she spent 20 years as a Chicago television anchor and reporter for WGN Channel 9, ABC7 and NBC5, and had a stint as managing partner at media trainer J2SC. &nbsp;Joan is a long-time member of the Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA).&nbsp;

Joan Esposito (Featured Interviews)

From Heartland Signal and WCPT AM 820 in Chicago, "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" (weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central) is a topical and interactive talk show that focuses on national, state and city politics. A veteran Chicago broadcaster, Joan talks to politicians and professors, activists and authors, candidates and correspondents, as well as listeners who call in to share their views on the news of the day. Her goal is to Edify, Entertain and Elect — Democrats, of course.    

Joan Esposito has hosted WCPT's afternoon show since 2019. Prior to that she spent 20 years as a Chicago television anchor and reporter for WGN Channel 9, ABC7 and NBC5, and had a stint as managing partner at media trainer J2SC.  Joan is a long-time member of the Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). 

From Heartland Signal and <a href="https://heartlandsignal.com/wcpt820/">WCPT AM 820</a> in Chicago, "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" (weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central) is a topical and interactive talk show that focuses on national, state and city politics. A veteran Chicago broadcaster, Joan talks to politicians and professors, activists and authors, candidates and correspondents, as well as listeners who call in to share their views on the news of the day. Her goal is to Edify, Entertain and Elect &mdash; Democrats, of course. &nbsp; &nbsp;
Joan Esposito has hosted WCPT's afternoon show since 2019. Prior to that she spent 20 years as a Chicago television anchor and reporter for WGN Channel 9, ABC7 and NBC5, and had a stint as managing partner at media trainer J2SC. &nbsp;Joan is a long-time member of the Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA).&nbsp;

Joan Esposito: Live, Local & Progressive

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