Institute of Politics

Overview of Organization

WBEZ Chicago is a leading public media organization dedicated to providing insightful journalism and engaging content to the community. With a commitment to journalistic excellence, WBEZ has received numerous awards and recognition for its impactful reporting and storytelling.

Internship Summary:

As the intern for our talk shows at WBEZ Chicago, you will have the opportunity to expand your production experience and refine your journalism skills while working alongside members of WBEZ's award-winning newsroom and talk show team. This internship is designed to provide you with hands-on experience in radio, podcast and web production.

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with seasoned journalists and reporters to research, write, and produce compelling talk show conversations and web articles
• Conduct research on political and other news topics, helping to identify potential story ideas and angles.
• Learn how to craft content for radio, podcasts, digital platforms and social media
• Work closely with a seasoned executive producer and hosts who will provide mentorship, guidance and feedback to help you refine your production skills and storytelling techniques.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Pursuing a degree in journalism, communications, political science, or a related field.
• Strong writing and storytelling skills.
• Interest in politics and government affairs.
• Curiosity and a passion for journalism and community engagement.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced newsroom environment.
• Proficiency in digital media tools and platforms is a plus.

About Your Supervisor:

Dan Tucker is executive producer of WBEZ’s daily talk shows In The Loop and Say More. He manages the show staff and the day-to-day production of the shows. Prior to joining WBEZ in 2014, he was a producer and reporter at WNYC in New York where he focused on business, technology and local New York City news. Dan has an M.A. in Journalism from the City University of New York and a B.A. in English from Vassar College.

Eligibility

Undergraduate students Domestic and International students

Location, Modality and Commute:

Our full-time talk shows team works a hybrid work schedule where employees are required to work three days onsite and two days remote per week. A part-time intern would be expected to be on-site at least one day per week with possible other remote hours specified by their executive producer. 848 East Grand Ave., Chicago, Ill., 60611. Specific directions will be provided. To reach our office from Hyde Park, students have the option of taking buses or trains, riding a bike or e-scooter or driving. Parking at Navy Pier for employees costs $14 per day. There is a room for bike and scooter storage, but a lock is still recommended. We also have a shower room.

Start and End Date:

The Academic Year internships will take place according to the IOP’s timeline, with specific dates and weekly hours to be determined by the employer partner and intern during the interview process:

• Onboarding: November – December 2025
• Intern Work Period: January – May 2026