It’s the Chicago Reader‘s 40th birthday, and Michael Miner joins us because he’s been there for it all. Hans Holsen becomes METRA PR man Harvey Pilker, here to explain fare hikes. Whit Nelson explains science, specifically, neutrinos. Thea Lux performs as Nadine Valentine. And Dastardly comes in with music. As usual, if you can hear us, this magazine is LIVE. Download at iTunes here, or listen below.

At Saturday’s show at the Horseshoe, we’ll have Ryan O’Connor; Tim Baltz of The Second City e.t.c., comedian Nick Vatterott; Barrel of Monkeys ensemble member Lucy Katherine Campbell; playwright Marisa Wegrzyn with a new radio play, and musical guest Josh and the Empty Pockets. Check The Paper Machete‘s site for the updates on this line-up as the week goes on.