Midwest Today Podcast - Episode #002 - August 8th 2024

In this week’s episode of "Midwest Today," hosts Sarah and Ethan dive into a packed weekend of events and intriguing stories from across the Midwest. If you’re in Chicago, get ready for a whirlwind of activities, including the much-anticipated Market Days in Northalsted, the Chicago Air and Water Show, and the Crosstown Classic between the Cubs and White Sox. Whether you’re enjoying the neon lights of Sidetrack’s Scruff Glow Party or catching the thrilling aerial displays over Lake Michigan, there’s something for everyone in the Windy City this weekend.

But it’s not all about current events—we also take a trip down memory lane to revisit one of Chicago’s most bizarre and infamous incidents: the 20th anniversary of "Poopgate." Back in 2004, a Dave Matthews Band tour bus dumped 800 pounds of waste onto unsuspecting tourists cruising the Chicago River, creating a scandal that has lingered in the city’s collective memory ever since.

Beyond Chicago, we explore Columbus, Ohio, which has surprisingly emerged as the hottest real estate market in the country. According to recent data from Realtor.com, homes in Columbus are attracting record levels of interest, particularly from out-of-state buyers seeking affordability and vibrant community life.

We wrap up the episode with a deep dive into the evolving cannabis industry in Waseca, Minnesota, featuring insights from original reporting by Waseca County News. Midwest Extraction Services, a local business, is making waves as it shifts from hemp to cannabis, aiming to position Waseca as the "cannabis capital of Minnesota."

Join us for this engaging mix of news, culture, and history from the heartland, as we explore the stories that make the Midwest unique. Whether you’re a local or just a fan of Midwest culture, this episode has something for everyone.