The 78

This week's podcast episode covers various topics including the Windy City Smokeout festival, Robert's Pizza, the movie The Exorcist, the Blues Brothers, and two festivals in Chicago: Roscoe Village Burger Fest and Taste of River North. The episode also features a discussion about a local shop called the Happy Hour Shop. Overall, the episode highlights the vibrant food and cultural scene i...

In this conversation, Tom Barnas discusses various topics including music, food, sports, and Chicago landmarks. He talks about his experiences at Windy City Smokeout, a country music festival, and his visit to Paisley Park, the home and studio of Prince. He also shares his thoughts on the book 'Last Comiskey' which explores the history of Comiskey Park, the former home of the Chicago White...

Tom Barnas shares his experiences and stories from his travels around Chicago and beyond. He talks about his visit to Galena, Illinois, home of the Field of Dreams movie location, and the Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa. He also mentions the cozy Duck Inn in Bridgeport and the Illuminarium at Navy Pier. Tom reflects on the importance of war memorials and the significance of freedom on the 4th of July....

In this podcast episode, Tom Barnas discusses various topics related to Chicago, including the history of Superdawg, the origin of the Italian beef sandwich, the story of Judy Garland's ruby slippers, the challenges faced by small businesses like Heritage Bikes and Coffee, and the unique performance style of the band Future Islands.

In this podcast episode, Tom Barnas talks about various stories and places in Chicago. He mentions the Punchbowl Social in the West Loop, Lake Geneva and the mailboat jumpers, the Electric Funeral Bar in Bridgeport, Local Goods Chicago, the Hardcore Hearse Club, and his experience organizing block parties at WGN and CBS. Tom emphasizes the uniqueness and positive aspects of Chicago and encourages...

This podcast episode covers several stories from Chicago, including the 48th anniversary of The Alley, a jewelry business turned punk store. It also discusses Kuma's Corner, a unique burger joint known for its heavy metal theme, and the Winnetka Music Festival, started by Val Heller of ValsList.com. The episode concludes with a mention of the Summer Camp Sketch Comedy Show and the I Am a Man m...

In this podcast episode, Tom Barnas talks about various experiences he had in and around Chicago. He mentions visiting a retro cocktail bar called Common Decency, posting a story about the origins of Memorial Day, exploring Omaha, Nebraska, and discovering the history of balloon bombs during World War II. He also discusses a book called 'Made in Chicago' that highlights the origins of popu...

In this podcast episode, Tom Barnas interviews two amazing women: Amy Bazzari, author of 'The Best Hits on the Blues Highway,' and Cindy Fee, the voice behind the Golden Girls theme song. Tom also discusses the history of Chess Records and its influence on the Rolling Stones. He covers other topics such as the Bluey exhibit, summer festivals in Chicago, and the reopening of Castaways resta...

In this podcast episode, Tom Barnes discusses various topics including Amy Bazzari's book about the Blues Highway, Lottie's Pub in Bucktown, and his recent experiences in Naperville at Go Brewing and Cocoa Beach Pier. He also highlights the artwork of Jim Bachor and the art of tufting at Pop Craft Studios in Uptown. Tom emphasizes the importance of celebrating local gems like Lottie's...

This podcast episode covers various topics, including a visit to the Chicago Magic Lounge, an interview with chef Brian Enyart, a tour of the Ferrara Candy Company, and a discussion about the history of 97.9 The Loop radio station. The episode also mentions the Roseland Community Hospital and a bronze statue of the Fonz in Milwaukee.

This week, delve into the captivating journey of Peter Jesperson and his remarkable 50 years in the music industry. Discover the eclectic wonders of Strange Cargo in Andersonville, immerse yourself in the vibrant universe of C2E2, embrace the spooky spirit of Halfway to Halloween, and uncover the hidden gems of The Getaway in Lincoln Square. Join us for an extraordinary peek behind the curtain in...

Explore the vibrant tapestry of Chicago's South Side with ventures to Beverly Records, where vinyl dreams come alive. Dive into the secret corridors of 007 at the Museum of Industry, where history whispers in every exhibit. Experience the sweet aroma and cultural richness of the Largest Filipino Bakehouse in the US, where tradition meets innovation. And step into the glamorous world of beauty...

This week, The 78 invites you to delve behind the scenes as we uncover captivating stories featuring luminaries like Rick Bayless, the legendary Sammy Sosa of the Cubs, insightful discussions with Scott Bonn on our fascination with serial killers, a glimpse into the rigorous training to become a Chicago lifeguard, and a luxurious tour of the presidential suite at the esteemed St. Regis Hotel.

Join us as we delve deep into the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Chicago on the day of the eclipse, where the city's pulse beats with excitement and anticipation. Amidst the hustle and bustle, we uncover a captivating tale of Cubs opening day and the colorful characters our protagonists encounter along the way. Tune in to this special edition of The 78 for this story and more as we explore the...

Tom Barnas is the host and creator of Stories From The 78. Barnas lives and breathes Chicago. Being part of the Chicago media landscape for over 20 years. Getting his feet wet in Chicago morning radio and eventually making the transition to television at WGN TV by way of WGN Radio 720, he has been a successful storyteller in the Chicago media community. This latest venture, Stories From The 78 is...