NBC’s powerhouse television universe known as One Chicago is expanding beyond the screen and straight into the earbuds of devoted fans everywhere. With the launch of the brand-new One Chicago Podcast, enthusiasts of Chicago P.D., Chicago Fire, and Chicago Med are about to be granted unprecedented access to behind-the-scenes stories, actor interviews, exclusive insights from showrunners, and deeper context into some of the franchise’s most iconic episodes. This move marks a bold new chapter in how NBC engages its audience—not just as viewers, but as part of a connected, passionate community. For over a decade, One Chicago has captivated millions with its interwoven stories of first responders in America’s third-largest city, offering compelling drama, heart-stopping emergencies, and deeply human characters. With its trifecta of shows airing back-to-back on Wednesday nights, fans have come to cherish the emotional depth, interconnected plots, and character crossovers that keep the universe fresh season after season.

However, while the shows themselves offer rich narratives, fans have increasingly craved more—more access, more content, more connection to the creative forces behind their favorite fictional heroes. That’s where the One Chicago Podcast comes in. Developed by NBC in collaboration with Wolf Entertainment, the podcast promises to deliver weekly episodes timed to coincide with new broadcasts or pivotal franchise events. Hosted by a rotating lineup of cast members, producers, and writers, each episode of the podcast will serve as an audio deep-dive into the making of One Chicago—from script to screen and everything in between. Whether it’s exploring the emotional toll of a character death, examining how real-life first responders shape the authenticity of each series, or revealing how crossover episodes are coordinated logistically, the podcast’s mission is to enrich the viewing experience while spotlighting the voices behind the scenes. The debut episode, which drops next week, features Chicago Fire’s Miranda Rae Mayo and Chicago Med’s Nick Gehlfuss discussing what it means to portray characters that audiences rely on not just for entertainment, but for hope. Listeners can expect anecdotes about on-set moments, real-life inspirations for story arcs, and how the cast bonds behind the scenes. This kind of candid, unscripted storytelling is what will likely set the One Chicago Podcast apart in a sea of promotional media.

NBC executives have emphasized that this isn’t a typical marketing tool—it’s an immersive storytelling companion that exists to reward the franchise’s loyal fanbase. The format will also include fan-submitted questions and voicemail messages, allowing listeners to participate directly in the conversation. It’s part of a larger effort to blur the line between fans and creators and to reflect how emotionally invested many viewers have become. Indeed, the One Chicago franchise has long benefited from a highly engaged fan community, one that discusses every plot twist, theorizes about romantic pairings, and analyzes character motivations with the fervor usually reserved for sci-fi fandoms. By introducing an official podcast, NBC is validating that engagement and offering an outlet where deeper context can be provided without the constraints of a 42-minute televised format.

The move also comes at a time when podcasts are booming across all industries. As traditional TV ratings face competition from streaming platforms, companion podcasts offer networks a way to retain and grow their audience by meeting them where they already are—on mobile devices, during commutes, at the gym, or while doing daily tasks. It’s a way of keeping One Chicago present in fans’ lives even during the show’s off-season or between episodes. This kind of strategic expansion aligns with the direction of modern franchises, where content isn’t limited to a single format but rather spans video, audio, social media, and even live events.

The One Chicago Podcast will also play a critical role in setting up major story arcs and teasing future developments. While it won’t contain spoilers, fans can expect clues and Easter eggs dropped by showrunners or actors that might hint at what’s to come. For example, during hiatus months when reruns dominate airwaves, the podcast will continue releasing episodes, focusing on deep character studies or recaps of previous seasons, helping new viewers catch up while giving longtime fans fresh material to chew on. Technically, the podcast will be available on all major streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music, with episodes ranging from 30 to 45 minutes.