Chicago, The Nation, and Beer
June 22, 2025
This week we're back at Alarmist Brewery, discussing the tense political climate. We dive into ICE raids in LA, troops on American streets, and the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel. While sipping on Crispy Boy pilsner and 13.3% barrel-aged stout, we break down how the US bombing of Iran could spiral into something much worse. Tune in for our alarming analysis!
June 06, 2025
This week we're at Crust Tap Room in Albany Park, sipping on their Peachy Keen sour ale and other delights. We tackle the 'Disgusting Abomination Bill' cutting Medicaid by $600 billion, and how it turns out that there's a Hurricane season. Plus, Ukraine's impressive drone strike deep into Russia and why it's officially the Summer of the Corvid. Note: sadly, we recorded before the big Trump/Musk breakup. It's still probably worth listening to though.
May 18, 2025
This week we're at Maplewood Brewery, having survived yesterday's dust storm. We dive into Pope Leo XIV's labor-focused agenda, Trump's sketchy new Qatari 747, and the administration's budget chaos. The DHS is running out of money in July while Republicans argue over how badly to cut Medicaid. Be sure to stick around to hear about the state fair lineup. Seems like we'll have an extra special butter cow this year!
May 07, 2025
We check out the rebranded Ravinia Brewing, now called Diversey House, a collaboration between Moore's Brewing and Steep Ravine. While enjoying their beers, we discuss Trump's first 100 days, cabinet chaos, and the ongoing Abrego Garcia case. Plus, we dive into the impacts of China tariffs and major retirements in Illinois politics.
April 20, 2025
This week we're at Spiteful Brewing discussing authoritarian moves by Trump and his allies, from rendition to El Salvador to attacks on universities. We dive into the courts pushing back, while enjoying some crisp IPAs and excellent Hefeweizen. The Pope even makes an appearance, delivering some divine shade to JD Vance.
April 09, 2025
This week we hit up Hop Butcher to discuss some wild politics over high ABV beers. We chat about travel stories from Hawaii and Australia, dissect the NSA's Signal chat debacle, and dive into Trump's revenge tour against universities and law firms. Good thing these beers are strong - it's been a heavy week!
February 22, 2025
This week we're at Revolution Brewing discussing Trump's mounting legal challenges and the rise of fascism. We sample their Repo Man rye stout while covering CPAC's Nazi salutes, governors standing up to Trump's threats, and whether the Pope's health crisis matters. Between sips of barrel-aged beers, we ponder resistance strategies and the importance of long-term vision in politics.
February 02, 2025
This week we're at Off Color's Mouse Trap taproom, trying to make sense of the overwhelming political chaos. We discuss everything from trans rights to FAA regulations while sipping on their delicious Stoutling. We navigate the serious stuff but end on a hopeful note about ways to resist and stay engaged in these challenging times.
January 21, 2025
We're at Spiteful Brewing on Inauguration Day, watching the transition of power with a mix of dread and dark humor. We discuss Trump's parade of tech billionaires and the horrors that may or may not be coming. At least the freezing temperatures kept the outdoor celebrations to a minimum and the flag poles frozen at half-staff for Jimmy Carter.
January 11, 2025
This week we're at Is/Was Brewing on Ravenswood, diving into their saison-focused lineup while tackling the heavy start to 2025. We cover Jimmy Carter's passing, Trump's inauguration donors, and disturbing New Year's Day attacks. Though the mood is somber, we find some levity in their excellent beers.
December 21, 2024
This week we venture to the Hop Leaf in Andersonville, moving away from our usual brewery visits to the best beer bar in Chicago. We even have a special guest! This week we discuss the continuing resolution drama, Elon Musk's growing political influence, and Trump's shadow presidency while enjoying some seriously fancy beers served in proper glassware. Who's in charge here? The Belgian quads are, that's who!
December 08, 2024
This week we head to Ravinia Brewing before they close to relaunch as Steep Ravine Brewing. The rumors of their demise were a bit exaggerated. In politics news, we talk about Trump's potential cabinet picks, including the alcoholic and abusive Pete Hegseth for Defense Secretary. Plus, we cover South Korea's brief martial law adventure and Assad's sudden departure from Syria.
November 16, 2024
Drowning in post-election vibes at Cultivate by Forbidden Root, we're hashing out the baffling blame game and contemplating the political pendulum swing. Amidst the pints, we dive into grand theories of what happened, and where do we go from here.
November 05, 2024
This week, we're stewing about the upcoming election at Spiteful Brewing after a failed attempt at Hop Butcher. We dive into how polls are playing tricks, and confirm our love for Spiteful's space and drinks. We're almost there everybody, buckle up!
October 26, 2024
After looking at the polls in abject terror we figured it'd be good to have a drink. So this week we're at Revolution Brewing to talk about the last days of the election. Trump's increasingly bizarre public appearances? Yup, we've got that. Details about the A and B zones of the CPS board elections? It's all right here!
October 01, 2024
This week we hit up Old Irving Brewing for some tasty lagers and sours. We chat about the upcoming VP debate, Trump's fascist crime and housing plans, and some frustrating interviews with Harris. Also, we delve into school politics in Chicago. Don't forget: early voting starts this week in Chicago!
September 13, 2024
We record at O'Shaughnessy's pub, nervously gearing up for debate night. Kamala Harris preps intensely while Trump claims he's not prepping, yet gets coached by Gaetz and Gabbard. Kamala dominates and Trump, well, does Trump. Tune in for chaos, politics, and our liberal takes.
September 01, 2024
This week we hang out at Spiteful on the perfect Chicago summer day! We talk all about the DNC and our volunteer experiences, including hugging strangers at the airport. Plus, highlights from Tim Walz's killer speech and Harris' roll call vote surprises (like, seriously, who expected Lil Jon?). Oh, and RFK found a roadkill whale...because why not?
August 19, 2024
This week we hang out at Dovetail, EJ contemplates barrel-rolling Italian plumbers, and Steve enjoys a Festweiss. Join us as we dive into the VP race, the charming Tim Walz, and the perils of actually listening to Trump’s speeches. We got all the hot takes and hot dishes you can handle!
July 27, 2024
This week we’re at O'Shaughnessy's for a hot take on the longest nine days in politics ever. Biden's out, Harris is in, and we're thrilled! Fundraising records, rapid endorsements, and VP speculation—oh my! Also, did Steve fail the DNC background check? Get pumped, politic pals!
July 20, 2024
This week we’re navigating Begyle's delicious ales while skirting train noise. Of course there's been some news since our last podcast. To start, there's European elections and Menendez being found guilty. It feels like there's some other stuff to talk about though...
June 28, 2024
This week, we found ourselves at an unusual spot - Almost Home Tavern and Grill - to catch the debate. We discuss SCOTUS' busy term, stumbling on lazy judges, Clarence Thomas taking millions, and the perennial Trump saga. Then the debate started. Truly it is the year of the fuck.
June 08, 2024
This week, we braved the beautiful weather to record at Dovetail, despite some tech hiccups. We discussed the big news: Trump's 34-count felony conviction. We also chatted about misinformation, disinformation, and everything in between. Cheers!
May 29, 2024
We crash-land at Spiteful Brewing for episode 113! Last episode we forgot to talk about our beer at Ravinia because we were so focused on tacos. Oops! Today, we're diving into the complicated mess of Trump trials, Rudy's surprise birthday guest, and even a high-speed political heist in Taiwan—yes, really. Plus, some intriguing Supreme Court updates, including Alito's upside-down flag. But wait, there's more: tons of beers sampled and loved at Spiteful. Cheers to justice, dogs, and delicious drinks!
April 27, 2024
This week at Ravinia, we're swapping political rants for taco rants because it's Taco Tuesday, baby! We've got our eyes on the Trump trial circus, marveling at the legal shenanigans. Also, we're plotting to pay for silence in beer since it's apparently legal - handy, right? Stick around for a masterclass in political absurdity and taco appreciation.
April 14, 2024
We dive into Draught Politics at Demo Brewing Company, nano-brewing our way through recent chaos from political figures to AI targeting systems. It's been a bit, so grab a brew and let's catch up!
March 17, 2024
We're at Begyle, on St. Paddy's, and diving deep into Chicago's all-out green chaos and the Steeler's quarterback room. Don't worry though, we've got what you need to prep you for the primary this Tuesday. Grab a pint, and listen in!
March 03, 2024
Wow, another sunny day in Chicago has us soaking up rays (and possibly a sunburn) at Half Acre, where the beer is as delightful as ever. Too bad our spirits aren't as light after diving into the latest Supreme Court shenanigans, state politics, and the ongoing tragedy in Gaza. Good thing we've got local Chicago matters and the 'Bring Chicago Home' initiative to keep our hope (and blood alcohol level) up. Cheers?
February 19, 2024
We're at Illuminated Brewworks, diving into everything from Russians buying Starlink in Ukraine to local Chicago politics. Also, is Tucker Carlson secretly trying to get a grocery gig with his awe at Russian shopping carts?
February 03, 2024
We're trading political punches over beers at Hop Butcher, talking about Nikki Haley’s bold move against Trump, the 2024 election rollercoaster, and Arizona's wild Senate race. Plus, some serious legal drama for Trump and a brief on the Israeli situation. Strap in; it's a bumpy ride!
January 15, 2024
Today's hilariously chilling episode comes from Double Clutch Brewing in Evanston, the furthest we've braved for beer. We dove into the frothy currents of political and legal chaos, joked about Trump's mounting legal fees and his unusual courtroom confession, while sipping fantastic beers and cozying up to the best pretzels around. Next up, we brace for a record-cold Iowa caucus where Trump's inevitability could be his Achilles' heel. Stay warm and tuned!
January 05, 2024
We're sipping the good stuff at Revolution Brewery on Kedzie while diving into juicy political topics. The 14th Amendment's impact on Trump's ballot woes gets dissected, and Illinois' new laws, including minimum wage hikes and banning book bans, spark our debate. Plus, we touch on CPS changes and migrant challenges without losing our humor over a hint of Aaron Rodgers' unvaccinated stance. No Epstein list scoop yet, though!
December 22, 2023
This episode at Off Color's Mousetrap is a festive one where we revel in former Alderman Ed Burke's conviction, sip unique brews, and end the year both somberly and humorously, contemplating the existential dread of 2024. Season's Greetings!
December 09, 2023
On this episode recorded at Begyle Brewing, we talked about a range of topics from saying goodbye to controversial political figures like Henry Kissinger George Santos' cameo antics. As always, we ended on Chicago politics, talking about the city's challenge with accommodating migrants sent from border states and the canceled plan for a tent city on contaminated land. Cheers to another deep-dive discussion all served up with a side of quality Begyle brews.
November 23, 2023
This week we stopped by Metropolitan Brewery despite some location mix-ups. We discussed their bankruptcy woes and sipped beers like their Crankshaft Kölsch. Politics-wise, we dove into the chaos of Trump's legal entanglements and upcoming trials, Congress' fumbles, and a bit on international tensions. Also, a nod to Hunter Biden slapping lawsuits on his detractors and local Chicago politics, from budgets to the fate of the Skokie Swift. Stay tuned for local brewery love and political banter, topped with a Lions vs. Packers Thanksgiving game chat.
November 11, 2023
In episode 101 at Ravinia Brewing, we made it past our centennial mark and dove into some legal brew-haha between Ravinia Brewing and Ravinia Festival. We also chewed on Congress taking petty swipes at Pete Buttigieg and the ongoing saga of Trump's legal battles. Plus, a fun detour into Chicago's political theatre, with a progressive push for housing funding and an alderman's physical scuffle over a vote. Our beer picks? Pumpkin alt and more!
October 25, 2023
In this episode, we celebrated the 100th episode of "Draught Politics" at the District Brew Yards. We had a lively chat with special guest Carl Rutherford from Twisted Hippo who gave a deep-dive on the state of the beer politic world and its struggles, including the stalled direct-to-consumer laws and overall impact of the pandemic on lesser-known breweries. Our chats ranged from serious global events to the importance of supporting local breweries and creating sustainable growth within the sector.
September 29, 2023
This week we grasp desperately at the last days of summer, enjoying some beers on the lovely deck at Metropolitan brewing. Of course we’ll talk about the latest news of the fraudster in chief and discuss the looming government shutdown.
September 05, 2023
This week we’re at one of our favorites, Half Acre, to enjoy some beers and cover the latest in the Trump indictments. Hint: it isn’t going well for Trump if the law matters.
August 23, 2023
This week we head back to Eris to have some delicious ciders, delivered automatically through the power of technology. We talk all about the indictments of course. No, not those indictments, the other ones. NO, THE OTHER ONES! Tune in, won’t you?
August 09, 2023
This week we risk the apocalypse by going outside the borders of Chicago to visit Temperance brewing located in Evanston. Of course we’ve got lots of indictment related news to talk about, but if you tune in this week, you can find out what the cutest animal on the planet is!
July 17, 2023
This week is a big week for Draught Politics where we bring in our Will Hurd correspondent, Carol, to talk with us about all things Will Hurd! That plus we have plenty of our new segment, Judgef**kery!
June 11, 2023
Naturally the indictments came out AFTER we recored this episode, but we were able to get together and ensure that we talked about them. We’ll start with a regular full episode, recorded at Maplewood brewery, and then at the end we have some bonus content dedicated to the indictments. Enjoy!
May 20, 2023
This week we’re back at Old Irving Brewing for some beers, some politics, and of course, their delicious soft pretzels. It’s been a while so we spend some time catching up on the latest goings on with Nobel Prize winner, George Santos, and of course that sexual assaulter, Trump.
April 16, 2023
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April 07, 2023
Imagine for a moment that you could travel back a few days in time to see what the world was like before the Chicago municipal election. What would that world look like? How did we muddle through life without Trump indictments? Well, tune into this week’s timely podcast to look back at those halcyon days!
March 17, 2023
It took us a little while to get together, but this week we wanted to discuss the results of the municipal election. Then with the latest goings on at SVB, we couldn’t help but turn into an economics podcast for a bit. In spite of that, we think it’s worth listening to so join us!
February 26, 2023
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February 11, 2023
This week we’re back to Hop Butcher … OF THE WORLD, for some beer and a review of Biden’s state of the union.
January 20, 2023
Join us for a special Sunday edition of the podcast! We’ll break down McCarthy’s no good, very bad week, and keep you up to date on the Dolphins/Bills game while we do it!
December 29, 2022
This was recorded just before Christmas and with holiday travels it took a little while to get this uploaded. So it may be a little dated, but no less entertaining!
November 27, 2022
This week we’re at a brand new tap room, Hop Butcher Of The World, to talk about the election results and, of course, beer!
November 06, 2022
Well folks, we’re two days out from the midterms, so it felt like we should get together and record one more podcast while our overlords permit it. So tune in to hear our predictions and our thoughts on Ravinia Brewing!
October 24, 2022
It’s a sad in the world of Chicago breweries as Empirical has closed down. We found out about it at the last minute and wanted to make sure to squeeze in a quick episode to send it off properly. Like I said, it’s a quick one, but we’ll be back soon with a full pre-election podcast to prepare you for whatever may come.
October 08, 2022
After some travel and some ‘rona, we’re back! It’s been a few weeks since we’ve been able to get together to podcast, but hopefully you’re still out there. Join us as we try to catch you up on all the news that’s fit to talk about while drinking beer!
August 21, 2022
Here’s how much we have to talk about this week: we barely covered Alex Jones. What’s got us so distracted, besides our tasty beers? Tune in and find out!
July 17, 2022
This week we’re at the Old Irving Brewery, ironically located on Montrose, to tell you about the latest in politics. This week, Snooki brings a little Jersey Shore to the Pennsylvania Senate race, and witnesses are tampered with. So open a private keg, and join us, won’t you?
June 18, 2022
Hey everybody! Sorry to leave you hanging for a few weeks but we’re back with not one but TWO episodes for you to enjoy! The first was recorded this week. The second one was recorded a couple weeks ago. Hope you enjoy both of them and thank you for your ongoing patience!
April 17, 2022
It’s been a while since we’ve been able to record, but this pod is absolutely worth the wait! This week we’re at Dovetail to talk about Ukraine, and the Elon Musk’s quest for world domination. Join us, won’t you?
February 28, 2022
There’s a lot to talk about this week. The cold war is back but hotter, and the Twisted Hippo brewery has been lost to fire. So grab a cold one, and your favorite headphones to get our run down of all the latest.
February 05, 2022
We’re Back! The positivity rate in Chicago has returned to a more modest level so we’ve returned to publishing this podcast. Join us for discussions of insurrections, pandemics, and all the other uplifting stories of the day!
December 06, 2021
On this week’s podcast Steve and EJ return to our old friend, Twisted Hippo, to talk about beer, double negatives, and the SCOTUS of concern.
November 13, 2021
This week, EJ and Steve are INSIDE at Urban Brew Labs to talk about Infrastructure, Build Back Better and how world leaders have managed to reverse climate change through the power of speeches and naps! Join us won’t you?
September 27, 2021
This week we check out the delightful beer garden over at the Alarmist tap room while we talk about immigration, the debt ceiling, and all things involving cyber ninjas.
August 23, 2021
After such a successful train themed episode last week we insisted on doubling down. This week we’re at Dovetail where we can hear both the L and the Metra at the same time! To fill the time between trains passing by we talk about Afghanistan and everybody’s favorite infectious disease, Covid-19!
August 01, 2021
This week EJ and Steve head to Empirical brewery to enjoy some of their fine beers and get you up to speed on the latest politics. We discuss the 1/6 commissions, police reforms in Chicago, and are occasionally interrupted by the sweet sounds of Biden’s favorite form of transportation.
July 11, 2021
This week Steve and EJ head to the Burning Bush brewery, one of the newer additions to the Chicago brewing scene. We’ll tell you all about what SCOTUS is screwing up and we’ve got indictments!
June 20, 2021
After a bit more of a hiatus than we’d intended, we’re back to pod at the lovely Metropolitan Brewing tap room. This week we share our frustrations over the quest for bipartisanship and celebrate the departure of Netanyahu from Israel leadership.
May 17, 2021
EJ and Steve are in person, vaxxed and unmasked, ready to get you up to date on all the latest in politics! We return to Half Acre on a beautiful Sunday afternoon to enjoy some beers and a little Cheney inspired Schadenfreude. So grab a cold one and join us, won’t you?
January 17, 2021
Another quiet and peaceful day this week in the news. Since we’re no longer in 2021 there are some bright spots in the news, but don’t worry you’ll still want a beer for this.
January 17, 2021
EJ and Steve get together for an emergency broadcast as the Capitol is breached by right wing seditionists
January 17, 2021
Catching up on the backlog of podcasts, here's our farewell to 2020. May 2021 be a whole hell of a lot better!
October 31, 2020
This is it everybody! We are three days out from the election! Does Biden win? Does the apocalypse begin? What about Hunter Biden’s emails, amiright???
October 02, 2020
Trump has the ‘Rona, and we’ve got an emergency podcast ready to break it all down for you! Enjoy this unusually timely take!
August 29, 2020
This week, is a very momentous week for us. In honor of our 50th episode, and in conformance with all national, state, and local health codes, we met in person to record this podcast. No zooms! No Facebook Lives or Facebooks Live! Just two guys, two beers, and two microphones! So join us as we talk about racial justice, and as many conventions as our Election Circus tent could hold!
August 11, 2020
This week come join us for a Coronavirus update, and stay for some prime gourmet Illinois corruption! Apologies for the sound quality, the zoom call was using the wrong mic.
July 17, 2020
The last of catchup on the podcasts, with some discussion of the surging numbers in Florida. This was recorded when they were in the mere thousands instead of 10s of thousands! Ahhh, the memories. Enjoy!
July 17, 2020
This podcast was recored a while ago during a Facebook Live session, but I have failed as a podcaster by taking weeks to post it. On the bright side, this episode doesn’t mention a certain politician’s name once. We allude to him, but that name is not in here.
May 25, 2020
During the lockdown we’ve been streaming to Facebook, but finally we’ve managed the technical prowess to get you a podcast to listen to as well. So go ahead and lower your mask, raise your beer, and join us for all the latest!
March 27, 2020
TWO TRILLION DOLLARS and some beer. That's what we got this week. Join us won't you?
March 19, 2020
This week EJ and Steve are in their secure locations as we watch the apocalypse unfold. Fortunately we have enough beer to get us through another episode. We might even talk about things that are not directly linked to Covid-19!
March 08, 2020
This week Steve and EJ risk Covid-19 infections by crossing over the Chicago border to visit Sketchbook’s tap room up in Evanston. There’s much to talk about this week with people hoarding toilet paper and Biden taking the lead in the Democratic primary. So grab a beer, press play, and join us for all the latest.
February 22, 2020
It was a hell of a week in politics and EJ and Steve are here to give you the rundown from the District Brew Yards. This week Warren got to enjoy her favorite hobby, eviscerating rich guys from Wall Street. Meanwhile Trump decided to pardon a few of his buddies including our very own Rod “It’s F**king Golden” Blagojevic.
February 16, 2020
This week, Steve and EJ check out the brand new Burning Bush Brewery as they talk about another long week in politics. The impeachment might be over, but Trump’s checking a few firings off of his todo list. Meanwhile in Election Circus news, the Iowa caucus results are probably done and New Hampshire may be the end of the road for Biden. Fire up your podcast app, grab a beer, and join us for all the latest!
February 06, 2020
This week Steve and EJ had to record remotely, and with a few technical glitches along the way. It seemed a fitting tribute to the fine work of Shadow on the Iowa Caucus vote tallying app. Tune in this week to get the details on that, the end of impeachment, the SOTU and more!
January 31, 2020
This week there’s a ton of impeachment related news with the revelations from Bolton’s upcoming book and the film stylings of Igor Fruman playing a role in the trial. Will there be witnesses? Will there be whiskey allowed on the floor for question time? Tune in this week as EJ and Steve head over to the All Rise Brewing to catch you up on the latest.
January 24, 2020
In spite of the pettifogging, the Senate Impeachment trial kicked off this week, so Steve and EJ met up at Pilot Project Brewing to talk all about it. There’s also updates on Iran, the 737 Max, and a new virus coming out of China.
January 18, 2020
This week EJ and Steve return to the Old Irving Brewery to talk about the official beginning of impeachment, the breakup of team progressive, and then give you a World War 3 update.
January 10, 2020
Seems there’s a bit to talk about in regards to Iran this week, so Steve and EJ got together at Maplewood’s taproom to have a very foreign policy heavy episode. Don’t worry though, the election circus rolls on, and we merged in the Chicago segment this week due to lack of non-weed news.
January 03, 2020
On this week’s Draught Politics, EJ and Steve, talk about what a year 2019 was and discuss what’s going on with legal marijuana in Chicago.
January 01, 2020
For the final podcast OF THE DECADE, Steve and EJ headed to Empirical’s Tap Room on Ravenswood to talk briefly about the latest national news and then look back at what a crazy year 2019 was.
December 21, 2019
This week EJ and Steve gathered at a little house party to watch the debates. Afterwards we recorded, talking about how the debate went and, of course, the third successful impeachment of a President in US history.
December 14, 2019
This week Steve and EJ are broadcasting from quarantine as there’s illness circulating through both their households. Even if one of us substitutes NyQuil for a lager, there’s plenty of politics to talk about this week!
December 06, 2019
This week EJ and Steve met up at the Hopewell tap room in Logan Square to talk about the judiciary committee hearings. We also celebrate the rare occasion where the week ended with less Democratic Presidential candidates than it started with.
December 03, 2019
Since we last recorded, the city of Chicago budget was completed. It didn’t have the overwhelming support that was typical of mayors past, so we talk about that as we drink a few beers at the Revolution Brewing Tap Room.
November 30, 2019
After a few delays in being able to sync up our schedules we’re together again for a new episode of Draught Politics. This week we visit Revolution Brewing’s Kedzie Tap room to catch up on the latest impeachment news and the election circus.
November 17, 2019
This week EJ and Steve meet at Maplewood Brewery to catch up on the biggest local politics news, the end of the CTU strike. We talk about the outlines of the settlement and what EJ’s happy return to a semi-normal schedule.
November 15, 2019
After a week’s hiatus due to travel conflicts, Steve and EJ meet up at Maplewood brewery to review the first day of impeachment hearings. Then in the Election Circus 2020 we ask why people keep jumping into the race at this late date.
November 01, 2019
To honor the end of the CTU strike, we bring you our strike focussed episode that we recorded on Monday. As it turns out we accidentally predicted the strike ending on Thursday, so give the show a listen and see what else we got right!
October 29, 2019
This week EJ and Steve head to Eris Brewing to enjoy some ciders, pretzels, and the schadenfreude of Trump getting booed at a Nationals game. Then of course we talk all about SCIF’s and the latest from Election Circus 2020.
October 26, 2019
For the local part of our podcast met up at Twisted Hippo to talk about the CTU strike with our guest podcaster, Chris, from the GOTMFV show. Chris hails from Michigan, home of Betsy DeVos, so he brought his outside perspective on teacher strikes and public education.
October 23, 2019
This week we have a special episode of Draught Politics with our first guest podcaster, Chris from Eclectablog and the GOTMFV Podcast. We met up at one of our favorite taprooms, Twisted Hippo, to talk all about impeachment, the democratic debate, and Michigan politics.
October 17, 2019
Today the CTU strike is upon us with at least a day of strikes ahead and possibly more. EJ and Steve recorded earlier this week at Dry Hop Brewing to discuss our thoughts on the strike and make our predictions for how it will unfold. It’s perfect entertainment for those of you spending a little extra quality time with the kids this week!
October 15, 2019
This week, EJ and Steve head to Dry Hop Brewing to catch up on impeachment news and the antics of Rudy Giuliani.
October 03, 2019
This week Steve and EJ meet up at Old Irving Brewing to talk about labor unrest in Chicago and the latest in FBI raids. So grab a pint, sit back, and let them catch you up on all of the local news.
October 01, 2019
This week we meet at the Old Irving Brewery to finally talk about impeachment. That’s right everybody, be sure to listen to this episode before new breaking news makes it obsolete!
September 26, 2019
We continue Episode 21 with our local and state segment at the Corridor brewery. This week we preview the possibility of a CTU strike as well as contemplate why the Oberweiss family keeps trying to run for office.
September 25, 2019
This week we return to our normal routine but at a new location, Corridor Brewing. We talk all about Lewandowski’s testimony and the whistleblower complaint, plus circus 2020. Note that we recorded this before Pelosi decided to initiate a formal impeachment inquiry.
September 19, 2019
This week we have a special episode as EJ catches Steve up on what’s happened in the last two weeks during his honeymoon. Sharpie gate, the Democratic candidate debate, and of course chicken sandwiches are all on the agenda. Tune in and catch up with Steve on the last 3,792 news cycles!
September 11, 2019
In this episode, we delved into a deep dialogue on the crucial topic of climate change, spurred by Sanders' $16.3 trillion climate change proposal. Of course, we couldn't avoid derailing into the effects of socialized medicine and the Democratic primary, but the conversation always circled back to finding impactful climate solutions. From agreeable action plans to potential policy pitfalls, we covered a spectrum of standpoints on what many believe is our planet's most pressing problem. We might not have been at our usual brewery this time but rest assured, beer was involved.
September 04, 2019
While Steve is away, the podcast continues on with a discussion about the Fair Tax. This is going to be a crucial change to how government in Illinois works, so EJ and Steve dive deep on the policy and its ramifications.
August 30, 2019
After a long national session and a low batter, Steve returns home to record while EJ remains at an undisclosed location in Michigan. None the less we have beer and talk about the first 100 days of the Lightfoot administration. We continue to count down the days til the budget apocalypse unfolds!
August 29, 2019
This week EJ and Steve record remotely with EJ trying some of the beers Michigan has to offer while Steve visits Dovetail. Plenty of Donald Trump craziness to cover over the last week, and of course plenty of Circus 2020 polls!
August 22, 2019
This week Steve and Ej meet at Empirical’s tap room to discuss a recent Aldermanic forum where they discussed their experiences in a shifting Chicago political scene. Is the machine truly dead? Plus they contemplate the fate that awaits the grand champion steer from the state fair.
August 20, 2019
This week Steve and EJ visit the Empirical tap room to talk about yield curves and our hopes for Texas turning into a blue state. Eventually…
August 15, 2019
The State Fair is going on this week so not a lot to talk about in politics, but a budget hole looms for Chicago and we talk more about the possibilities of a teacher’s strike. We wash it all down with a couple of lagers at the Middle Brow Bungalow.
August 13, 2019
With the news filled with gun violence it was a pretty long week to talk about in this episode, but EJ and Steve have a couple beers at Middle Brow’s Bungalow and try to lighten the mood.
August 06, 2019
EJ and Steve meet up at Spiteful brewing to review the July Democratic Presidential debate, and find a little time to talk about some great changes to the law in Illinois.
August 03, 2019
This week EJ and Steve head to Spiteful Brewing to talk about Trump being Trump, #MoscowMitch trending and cause for optimism in the fight for control of the Senate.
July 27, 2019
Due to a technical problem (i.e. Steve forgetting) last week’s local podcast didn’t get released. So this week we present two weeks of local conversation in one. Recorded at Half Acre on Lincoln Avenue and Begyle Brewing!
July 23, 2019
This week EJ and Steve head to Begyle Brewing in Ravenswood to talk about Trump's racism, the debate brackets, and hang out with some neighborhood dogs
July 18, 2019
This week EJ and Steve visit Half Acre’s Lincoln Avenue location to talk about racist tweets, Pelosi, the Squad, and impeachment. Then of course no episode would be complete without a visit to the big tent of Election Circus 2020.
July 12, 2019
EJ and Steve head to Metropolitan’s Tap Room on the River for a quiet week in local politics. A CTU contract fight looms over the summer and lacking any current corruption we talk about the treasures of the recently discovered 35th Ward office.
July 09, 2019
This week EJ and Steve head to Metropolitan's Tap Room to talk about the airports of the revolutionary war and the latest updates to Election Circus 2020
July 04, 2019
In part 3 of Episode 12 we get local at Off Color’s Mouse Trap tap room, discussing tax increases, the revenue of the Rosemont Mayor and the art of craft cocktails when the Trumps are in town.
July 02, 2019
EJ Returns this week for a visit to Off Color Brewing’s tap room, the Mouse Trap, for a recap of the debates, Trump’s visit to North Korea, and the House signing on to funding for immigrant detainment
June 27, 2019
This week we have special coverage of the Democratic Presidential Debates, recorded at Gideon Welles in Lincoln Square!
June 23, 2019
In the second half of episode 11 we turn to local news, talking about some press missteps by Lori Lightfoot as well as finally covering the suburbs with news in Evanston about rezoning and police oversight.
June 21, 2019
This week we recorded remotely with Steve at Dovetail and EJ deep in the heart of Brexit. It was hard not to talk about Iran this week and then we dive deep into the lineup for the upcoming Democratic debates.
June 13, 2019
In our National and International politics podcast this week, EJ and Steve find unity on a beer selection, and we dive deep into the tailoring choices of Donald Trump on his visit to the UK.
June 10, 2019
This week we ended up doing a pub crawl for our 10th episode, stopping at four different tap rooms in Chicago while we chatted about the latest in Chicago and Illinois politics.
May 30, 2019
It worked out that we waited a few days to record this week’s podcast as not only did we get to hear all of Mueller’s revelations, but it was great weather to be in Half Acre’s Balmoral beer garden. In local politics Lightfoot puts the indicted alderman Burke in his place, and the state pushes marijuana legalization to a Senate vote.
May 21, 2019
This week we return to our podcasting mission with coverage of Lori Lightfoot’s inauguration, eroding abortion rights and our usual Circus 2020 segment. Of course there’s always beer, and this week we visit Alarmist for a couple pints.
May 07, 2019
On our 7th episode we return to the Twisted Hippo to talk about the future of legal marijuana in Illinois and the variety of impeachment possibilities in our nation's capital.
April 30, 2019
This week the Chicago Municipal Elections wrapped up and so we turn our eyes towards the state budget. We have a couple of beers at Metropolitan's lovely riverside taproom and talk all about Biden's campaign Camaro.
April 22, 2019
We taped this episode at Spiteful Brewing and began by reflecting on the tail end of the Chicago elections, analyzing the impacts of the results and the need for election reform. We also chatted about newcomers to the 2020 election circus, Seth Moulton, and the potential launch of Biden's campaign. Finally, we talked over a couple of brews about Mayor Pete's increasing popularity. We toasted to good beer, hopeful politicians and summer's approach.
April 11, 2019
Due to some scheduling conflicts we didn’t have time to record this week. However, we did have some segments that were cut for time on the first few episodes. So we’ve created a “best of” podcast with those clips.
April 01, 2019
This week we're at Dovetail Brewery in Ravenswood to wind down the Chicago election coverage as we head to the polls tomorrow. In national news, we have Biden accusations, more Mueller report, and a Brexit update.
March 25, 2019
In the latest episode, we had a shot of politics on draft at Eris Brewery and Cider House, discussing Chicago's mayoral race and the power of endorsements, debates, and appearance of impropriety among candidates. We talked about Lori Lightfoot's defense strategy given her seeming frontrunner status while lightly pointing out the negative perception of Preckwinkle's running out of money or having a misguided strategy. We also highlighted Willie Cochrane's felony wire fraud case, labeling it the "week in aldermanic crime". Besides politics, we savored Chicago's rise to the top in terms of the number of breweries in town.
March 20, 2019
In this inaugural episode of Draft Politics, we merged our loves of beer and politics. We kicked off the show by introducing ourselves and talking about our backgrounds in the political scene. We shared our aim for the podcast - to facilitate 'beer-level' conversations about politics, an atmosphere we believe can foster understanding and common ground. We tackled elections and upsets in Chicago, dove into alderman races, as well as the mayoral race, all while chatting in the comfy settings of local breweries.