The 217 Today Podcast
217 Today: Americans are drinking less. What does that mean for winemakers in the Heartland?
In today’s deep dive, the grape harvest for wine is in full swing. But in some regions, the last few years have been tough.
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The 21st Show
Northern Illinois University President Lisa Freeman talks enrollment, football and funding
The president of Northern Illinois University discusses how her school is responding to challenges in higher education.
The 21st Show
Amid protests, Trump deploys National Guard to Illinois; Democratic leaders fight back with lawsuits
We talked with people on the ground after President Trump deployed National Guard troops to Illinois.
The 217 Today Podcast
217 Today: What happens if new data centers come to C-U? A look at the environmental costs
In today’s deep dive, still to come data centers use a lot of energy and water. And with the rise in AI some worry about the possibility of more facilities coming to downstate Illinois.
The 21st Show
Best of: Oscar-nominated filmmaker on the decline of newspapers
Rick Goldsmith is an Oscar-nominated documentary filmmaker. His newest film, "Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink," examines how hedge funds and private equity firms are hollowing out America's newspapers. He stopped by our studios to talk about the film and the struggles of American journalism.
A version of this interview was originally broadcast April 1, 2025.
The 217 Today Podcast
217 Today: When will beef prices drop? We asked a rancher, a butcher and an economist
In today’s deep dive, beef is as expensive as it’s ever been, thanks to the high cost of cattle. Retailers of all sizes have upped their prices on steak and hamburger.
The 21st Show
Illinois author Shelby Van Pelt on the smash success of ‘Remarkably Bright Creatures’
Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, novelist Shelby Van Pelt now makes her home in Wheaton, Illinois. Her debut novel, "Remarkably Bright Creatures," has been a huge hit, reportedly selling more than two million copies. It's also being made into a movie by Netflix. We'll talk with Van Pelt about her life and work.
The 217 Today Podcast
217 Today: Rural America still needs fast internet. Some worry new federal plans will fall short
In today’s deep dive, federal dollars will help bring internet connection to rural communities across the U.S. But new guidance from the Trump administration is asking states to consider the lowest cost options.
The 21st Show
Why is the job market so tough right now?
In the midst of economic uncertainty, job seeks are struggling to find work and competing with thousands of applicants at times. Labor and economic experts weigh in on what's happening and where the labor market goes from here.
The 21st Show is Illinois' statewide weekday public radio talk show, connecting Illinois and bringing you the news, culture, and stories that matter to the 21st state. Have thoughts on the show or one of our episodes, or want to share an idea for something we should talk about? Send us an email: talk@21stshow.org. If you'd like to have your say as we're planning conversations, join our texting group! Just send the word "TALK" to (217) 803-0730. Subscribe to our podcast and hear our latest conversations.
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PT6pb0
Find past segments, links to our social media and more at our website: 21stshow.org.
The 21st Show
Congressman Eric Sorensen on government shutdown, bailout for farmers
The federal government shutdown is now in its second day with no end in sight. Congressman Eric Sorenson gives his take on how federal workers in Illinois are being impacted by the shutdown.
The 21st Show is Illinois' statewide weekday public radio talk show, connecting Illinois and bringing you the news, culture, and stories that matter to the 21st state. Have thoughts on the show or one of our episodes, or want to share an idea for something we should talk about? Send us an email: talk@21stshow.org. If you'd like to have your say as we're planning conversations, join our texting group! Just send the word "TALK" to (217) 803-0730. Subscribe to our podcast and hear our latest conversations.
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PT6pb0
Find past segments, links to our social media and more at our website: 21stshow.org.
