In 2015, Satchel Lang was a curious five-year-old Chicagoan who didn’t want poop’s destiny to remain such a mystery. Now 11-years-old, we catch back up with Satchel and revisit the answer to Satchel’s question that reveals how poop and pee in the Chicago area get processed by an agency called the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago.
Byzantium And The Crusades - The Decline of the Crusaders Episode 7 “The Rise of Saladin”
In this episode, we'll hear how Saladin saw a golden opportunity to create an Islamic empire that could challenge the Crusaders when his rival Nur ad-Din, the Zengid ruler, and the capable Crusader King of Jerusalem, Amalric, both died unexpectedly. However, the new young King of Jerusalem, Baldwin IV, although himself a leper, would prove to be a brave and courageous leader.
Please take a look at my website nickholmesauthor.com where you can download a free copy of The Byzantine World War, my book that describes the origins of the First Crusade.
The Right to Drink - The Surprising History of Moonshine
There’s a funny thing about alcohol. Every time the government makes it hard to get, the greater the lengths humans go to get it. Throughout human history we’ve found mind-bendingly creative ways to obtain our precious hooch, and the higher the government barriers the larger the black market. But moonshining isn’t just an American Prohibition era story, it’s a modern day--and global--phenomenon. So grab your jug and listen along as we compare moonshine myths and lore with modern day reality.
Curious City - What My Family’s Great Migration Story Reveals About Chicago Blues
In the 20th century, millions of Black Americans who lived in southern states packed up and moved to northern cities — drawn by the promise of greater freedom and better jobs. Many headed to Chicago, and they brought a musical genre with deep African roots that reflected the realities of Black life: the blues. Reporter Arionne Nettles’ grandparents were among those who came to Chicago from the South, and when they established themselves in the city, they found success in the growing blues industry.
Byzantium And The Crusades - The Decline of the Crusaders Episode 6 “Saladin: The Early Years”
In this episode, we hear about the new young ruler of Egypt, Saladin, the man who would become the nemesis of the Crusaders. But his early years were fraught with difficulty and danger as the powerful ruler of the Zengid state in Syria, Nur ad-Din, sought to make him his vassal. Meanwhile, the Crusader King Amalric tried to ensure that Islam remained divided.
Please take a look at my website nickholmesauthor.com where you can download a free copy of The Byzantine World War, my book that describes the origins of the First Crusade.
Curious City - What Chicago’s Architectural Clues Reveal About How We Lived
If you’ve lived in or visited an older home or apartment building in Chicago, like question asker Biz Knapp, chances are it has an odd door or some other quirky feature that seems out of place today. But the evolution of apartment layouts signifies more than just a change in style or materials — They also provide architectural clues about the way Chicagoans once lived. We revisit those clues in this episode from 2017.
Then, we catch up with Evanston elementary drama teacher Michael Rodriguez. You might recognize his voice from an episode back in August, when he shared his excitement for the new school year. Now, about two months into his remote learning routine, we hear if things are going the way he expected.
Byzantium And The Crusades - The Decline of the Crusaders Episode 5 “The Second Attack on Egypt”
In this episode, we hear about the King of Jerusalem, Amalric's alliance with the Byzantines against Fatimid Egypt, where a young man called Saladin has seized power. A large Byzantine fleet and Crusader army converge on the Egyptian fortress of Damietta. But can they succeed in defeating Saladin, the man who will in time become the nemesis of the Crusaders?
Please take a look at my website nickholmesauthor.com where you can download a free copy of The Byzantine World War, my book that describes the origins of the First Crusade.
The Right to Drink - Why the )@#*$ can’t I ship booze to my door?
Almost every product under the sun can be delivered to your door in two days - or sometimes two hours. Except alcohol! Live in Vermont and want to order a 12-pack of IPAs from your favorite Michigan brewery? Sorry. Resident in NYC and want to order a bottle of that new small batch Kentucky bourbon you’ve been eyeing? Sure, COVID’s changed things, but how? And how long will it last? We’ll discuss when and where you can get booze at your doorstep.
Curious City - Chicago Residents Say Rats Are A Problem, So What Is The Solution?
We’re back on the rat beat! Through WBEZ’s Citizens’ Agenda project, Chicagoans expressed concerns about the large number of rats in their neighborhoods. So we walk you through what you, your neighbor and your elected officials can do to tackle Chicago’s rat problem. Later in the episode, hear from Chicago-based professional wrestler Colt Cabana, who wants to know your questions about the city’s wrestling history.
Curious City - Chicago Residents Say Rats Are A Problem, So What Is The Solution?
We’re back on the rat beat! Through WBEZ’s Citizens’ Agenda project, Chicagoans expressed concerns about the large number of rats in their neighborhoods. So we walk you through what you, your neighbor and your elected officials can do to tackle Chicago’s rat problem. Later in the episode, hear from Chicago-based professional wrestler Colt Cabana, who wants to know your questions about the city’s wrestling history.