Chicago State of Mind is a conversation-driven podcast from the CNW Network that slows the city down long enough to really listen. Hosted by Chicago News Weekly, each episode sits with the people shaping Chicago’s politics, culture, neighborhoods, and narrative—digging into not just what they do, but why they do it. From elected leaders and organizers to artists, parents, workers, and everyday neighbors, guests open up about family, faith, resilience, and the city that made them who they are. With honest dialogue, deep reflection, and unmistakable Chicago energy, Chicago State of Mind reveals the values, stories, and inner motivations behind the headlines—and shows how this city’s grit, joy, and hope are lived out every day.
Chicago State of Mind
Claim This Podcastby The CNW Network
5.0(1 reviews)
11 episodes
Updated Daily
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Podcast Overview
Chicago State of Mind is a conversation-driven podcast from the CNW Network that slows the city down long enough to really listen. Hosted by Chicago News Weekly, each episode sits with the people shaping Chicago’s politics, culture, neighborhoods, and narrative—digging into not just what they do, but why they do it. From elected leaders and organizers to artists, parents, workers, and everyday neighbors, guests open up about family, faith, resilience, and the city that made them who they are. With honest dialogue, deep reflection, and unmistakable Chicago energy, Chicago State of Mind reveals the values, stories, and inner motivations behind the headlines—and shows how this city’s grit, joy, and hope are lived out every day.
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
1/23/2026
1 verified contact email on file for Chicago State of Mind
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Recent Episodes
July 27, 2026
Chicago State of Mind with Carl West
What does it take to build an independent Black-owned media organization in today's rapidly changing journalism landscape?<br /><br />On this episode of <i>Chicago State of Mind</i>, host Cheryl Mainor welcomes fellow publisher, entrepreneur, and media executive <b>Carl West</b>, Founder and Publisher of <b>TBT News</b>, and CEO of MG Media for an insightful conversation about the evolution of Black media, the challenges of sustaining independent journalism, and the opportunities that lie ahead. Drawing from decades of experience as a business leader and publisher, Carl shares his journey of launching and growing TBT News, the importance of owning our narratives, and why trusted community journalism remains essential in an era of social media and misinformation. Together, Cheryl and Carl explore the business of local news, digital transformation, collaboration among Black-owned media outlets, and the responsibility of preparing the next generation of media leaders.Whether you're passionate about journalism, entrepreneurship, community leadership, or the future of Black media, this episode offers a thoughtful and inspiring look at the people working to ensure our stories continue to be told.<br /><b></b><br /><b>Guest:</b> Carl West, Author, Founder & Publisher, TBT News and MG Media<br /><b>Host:</b> Cheryl Mainor<br /><b>Presented by:</b> Chicago News Weekly and CNW Studio<br /><br />
June 15, 2026
The Wisdom of Transition with Dr. Sakira Jackson
What happens when success no longer feels aligned, leadership is evolving, or an organization is facing a season of change? On this episode of <i>Chicago State of Mind</i>, host Cheryl Mainor sits down with Dr. Sakira Jackson, known as the “Business Doctor,” to explore how individuals and organizations can recognize, preserve, and transfer wisdom before valuable knowledge, opportunity, and insight are lost. Drawing from her work as a strategist, leadership advisor, and creator of the MeshMind™ framework, Dr. Jackson shares how high-capacity thinkers can navigate complexity, how leaders can distinguish between being stuck and being in transition, and why capturing lived experience is one of the most important responsibilities of modern leadership.This thought-provoking conversation examines personal transformation, organizational resilience, succession planning, and the hidden value of the lessons we learn through leadership, adversity, and change. Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, emerging leader, or someone standing at a crossroads in life, this episode offers practical insights for navigating transition with clarity, purpose, and confidence.<br /><b></b><br /><b>Chicago State of Mind</b> is a production of Chicago News Weekly, CNW Studio and CaveRoom Entertainment, bringing you conversations with the people shaping Chicago's culture, business, and future. <br /><br />To read more on Dr. Jackson, <a href="https://issuu.com/cnwmedia.com/docs/march_26_2026_edition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://issuu.com/cnwmedia.com/docs/march_26_2026_edition</a>
May 29, 2026
Leadership, Fatherhood, and Global Impact with Robert Johnson
On this episode of <i>Chicago State of Mind</i>, Cheryl Mainor sits down with businessman, strategist, and global visionary Robert Johnson of The Solomon Group for a powerful conversation about leadership, legacy, and rebuilding community through intentional action.<br /><br />Robert Johnson shares the inspiration behind the <i>Reclaim Father’s Day Weekend</i> movement and why restoring the value of fatherhood and family engagement is critical to the future of Black communities. The conversation also explores the meaning and impact of the <i>Global Peace Gesture</i>, an initiative designed to spark unity, healing, and international collaboration during a time of growing division around the world.<br /><br />In addition, Johnson discusses the launch of the <i>SG Africa Advisory Platform</i>, an ambitious effort to connect African and African American business leaders, innovators, and institutions through economic partnerships, cultural exchange, and strategic development opportunities across the continent.<br /><br />This episode goes beyond business—it’s a conversation about purpose, responsibility, and building bridges between generations, communities, and nations.<br /><i></i><br /><i>Chicago State of Mind</i> is a product of Chicago News Weekly and the CNW Network and is produced by Caveroom Entertainment.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
11 total episodes available
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is Chicago State of Mind?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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