Noon Business Hour on WBBM Newsradio

A popular grocery chain with a fiercely loyal following may have another hit on its hands, two well-known retail brands are teaming up to capitalize on the lucrative back-to-college shopping season, and the age of self-aware machines may be arriving sooner than expected.

Signs are emerging that artificial intelligence may already be much closer to self-awareness than many experts initially predicted. Paul Hochman, President of Humongous Media, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss.

Tips on digging out of student loan debt, a look at new ways dealers are trying to get customers behind the wheel, and an overview of some "key changes" that occur when a child turns 18.

As many recent college graduates step into the real world, they're also carrying financial obligations ranging from student loans to credit card debt. Ed Gjertsen, Certified Financial Planner and Founder of Engage Wealth Group here in Chicago joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details...

A look at the local housing market. Pizza Hut is sold, McDonald's taps into nostalgia, and why you should use your vacation days and then actually unplug while you're away.

A lot of workers leave vacation days on the table, and when they finally take time off, they often bring work along, never fully unplugging. Two habits that employment experts say can contribute to burnout... Rick Cobb, Founder of the workplace consulting firm 2-Discern in Chicago joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss...

A look at the busy week ahead on Wall Street, there is another dramatic turn in the streaming wars, and a pair of investment ideas from a money pro.

A social media influencer's grocery store weight checks reveal many packaged foods contain less than advertised, leaving shoppers paying more for less, a look at why golf's comeback keeps gaining momentum and we meet a local farmer who is building a sustainable food business, selling natural meats and connecting consumers with products from other local farms as well.

A local farmer is building a sustainable food business while selling natural meats and connecting consumers with products from other local farms as well. Scott Hasselmann - Owner and Operator of Hasselmann Family Farm in Marengo joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss.

A social media influencer's grocery store weight checks reveal many packaged foods contain less than advertised, leaving shoppers paying more for less. Jimmy Wrigg, a social media influencer you can follow on TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to explain.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off today, bringing billions of dollars in tourism and investment while placing North America in the global spotlight. The economics of buying a fixer-upper are changing. And how to split the bill without creating restaurant drama.

Splitting the check at a restaurant can be tricky for diners and servers alike... Izzy Kharasch - President of Hospitality Works - AKA – The Restaurant Coach here in Chicago joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss.

Economist Diane Swonk joins us with the latest on today's key inflation numbers. Plus, why a baby's greatest financial asset is time, and from Boomers to Gen Z, every generation has money myths — and experts say each one gets something wrong.

From Boomers to Gen Z, every generation has money myths - and experts say each one gets something wrong. Shari Greco Reiches - Regional Director of E-P Wealth here in Chicago joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details...

When shopping for a teen driver, safety is paramount, and many experts say there are a variety of SUVs under $10,000 that provide strong crash protection. Plus, ways to get the most out of your summer vacation and create "space" within a trip for two.

When shopping for a teen driver, safety is paramount, and experts say there are several SUVs available for under $10,000 that offer strong crash protection. Matt Jones, Independent Auto Expert based in Los Angeles joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details.

A preview of the busy week ahead on Wall Street, craft beer's boom is fading as consumer tastes shift, and a pair of investment ideas from our Monday afternoon stock picker.

The latest twist in the Bears stadium saga points toward the Hoosier State, we talk with the man who brought Stan's Donuts to the Chicago area, and the legendary Italian Village Restaurant adds a new element.

As the World Cup prepares to kick off, many employers are embracing the excitement, using matches to boost teamwork and workplace interaction. From science fiction to city streets - the rise of robotaxis - and why young people are increasingly pushing back against the AI boom.

As the World Cup kicks off - especially this year, with the tournament being held in North America - many employers are embracing the excitement and using matches to boost teamwork and workplace interaction. Michelle Reisdorf - Chicago Jobs Expert for Robert Half joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour with the details...

For many homeowners—especially empty nesters and retirees—downsizing is about more than moving to a smaller home; it’s about simplifying life. That same focus on financial well-being is fueling interest in Freedom Numbers, a key benchmark of financial independence, while budget-conscious consumers continue to seek value at restaurants and stores.

Organizing your personal finances today can spare your loved ones significant stress and uncertainty down the road, the travel trend of putting one child in the spotlight and turning Bears road games into unforgettable travel experiences.

Following your favorite NFL team on the road is becoming a popular travel trend, blending football, tourism, and unforgettable experiences. But you'd better start planning now. Mark Wolters, Wolters World Travel and Culture - YouTube channel and Associate Professor Of Business Administration at the University of Illinois - Gies College of Business in Urbana-Champaign joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noo...

Illinois lawmakers wrapped up the spring session without taking final action on a proposal tied to the Bears' stadium plans, Internet culture is finding a profitable home on the big screen, and we'll discuss how to turn your child's first paycheck into a valuable financial teaching moment.

Your high schooler's first job and paycheck provide an opportunity for some important financial lessons. Chris Everett, fiduciary financial planner and president of Everett Wealth Solutions in Forest Park, joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to explain.