On the eve of her second solo album release, Chicago singer songwriter Vivian McConnell, otherwise known as  V.V. Lightbody, joined The 21st to talk about growing up in a musical family, the origins of “nap rock” and making a name for herself. Plus a performance, just for us.

After having to cancel their California wedding, Rob Roberge and Gina Frangello were still able to get married in front of friends and family — by taking their wedding to Zoom.

The COVID-19 pandemic is putting a strain on many marriages and other domestic partnerships. But our guest, Eli Finkel, says while the average marriage will suffer, some relationships will benefit. He offers practical advice for making the best of a relationship during a crisis.

Today's enocore edition of The 21st: relationship advice for a pandemic, a Zoom wedding, and an interview with Chicago singer-songwriter V.V. Lightbody.

For many people of color, going about a seemingly banal activity, like birding, or jogging, can turn into a racist encounter that is at best unpleasant, and at worst potentially deadly. We speak with black runners about the mental checklists they go through to ensure their safety, and speak with a psychologist about the negative emotional and health effects of racial trauma. 

Illinois U.S. Sen Tammy Duckworth joins The 21st to talk about the possibility of being nominated for vice president, the key role the U.S. Senate could play in Illinois state finances, and the growing sense of “quarantine fatigue.”

Today on The 21st: an interview with Illinois U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth and a conversation about the racism and danger encountered by runners who are black.

On what would have been Miles Davis' 94th birthday, The 21st asks family members and musical expert to talk about his childhood in Illinois, his impact on the discussion of race and of course, his legendary musical performances and compositions.

Early Sunday morning, the Illinois General Assembly wrapped up a four-day legislative session. Activity was relatively limited: passing a budget, changing a few voting laws, and approving curbside ordering of cocktails during the pandemic. Wearing masks and keeping socially distant, lawmakers conducted session without the usual swarm of lobbyists, activists, and members of the public to bear witness. But Statehouse reporters were keeping tabs — mostly from a distance — and two joined us to recap the session.

Today on The 21st: a wrap up of the Illinois General Assembly's brief pandemic session and a look at the life and legacy of jazz icon and Illinois native Miles Davis.

Each Thursday on The 21st, we discuss a different aspect of mental health, and this week, we discuss loneliness. Whether you identify as an introvert who enjoys spending time alone, or are more extroverted and feel energized being around others -- the coronavirus has magnified the pandemic of loneliness across the personality spectrum.

People of the Islamic faith mark Eid this weekend — the end of the holy month of Ramadan. But traditional celebrations will look different this year because of COVID-19. 

Gov. J.B. Pritzker says Illinois will likely ease stay-at-home restrictions more quickly than previously thought,  allowing outdoor dining at restaurants starting in about a week. Plus the Illinois General Assembly is back in session after more than two months away. We’ll have the latest.

Today on The 21st: changes coming to Illinois' stay-at-home orders and an update on the legislative session, introverts thriving (or struggling) at home, and celebrating Eid at the end of Ramadan during the pandemic.