How's Business?
How’s Business? is the product of our listening tour with small businesses throughout the City of Chicago. Through interviews with company founders, How’s Business? documents what’s going well – and what could be going better – for small businesses in Chicago. From licensing to maintaining work/life balance, we get candid with entrepreneurs and capture what it’s really like to do business in The Windy City.
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Aeslin Pup Hub, Brick and Mortar for All Your Pet Needs
02/18/2020
Aeslin Pup Hub, Brick and Mortar for All Your Pet Needs
Leah says she feels "conflicted" about doing business in the city of Chicago. What started as a vision for one retail shop has grown into a go-to hub for Chicago pet supplies, grooming services and dog daycare. With three locations, and a move and expansion on the horizon, Leah certainly has her hands full. And she loves it! But sometimes the red tape, regulations, and seemingly exorbitant cost of doing business makes it difficult to spend the money where it matters most -- her staff. Despite the growing pains, what's next for the Aeslin pet family? Learn more at Follow and . *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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UPDATE: Sign Legislation Changes for Chicago Businesses featuring Right Way Signs
02/11/2020
UPDATE: Sign Legislation Changes for Chicago Businesses featuring Right Way Signs
Previously, Alex described doing business in Chicago as "frustrating". Running the sign company his father started has been a challenge, to say the least, especially with all of the layers of approval and red tape it takes for clients to get their signs and awnings approved. The permit process is currently slow and complicated, but it might be getting a little easier. As we release this episode, a new ordinance has been introduced in City Council to change the process for signs that hang over the public way, like awnings and thick lettering. To learn how to help advocate for this change and others like it in support of Chicago small business, email us: or call 773-834-3129. You can learn more about Right Way Signs at or on Facebook *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Dinobi Detergent, a family owned manufacturer in Chicago
02/04/2020
Dinobi Detergent, a family owned manufacturer in Chicago
Sylvia and Augie's business grew out of a personal need for an effective laundry detergent that wouldn't irritate their family's sensitive skin. From diaper rash to eczema to sweaty workout clothes, Sylvia couldn't find an "all in one" product that worked for everyone, so she engaged an organic chemist to create one. Dinobi Detergent is designed to be an affordable, plant-based laundry detergent that is powerful in the wash, yet gentle on skin and the environment. From changing consumers' buying habits, to navigating the city's contract and procurement process, to keeping their product in stock for wholesalers, doing business isn't always easy. What is the vision for Dinobi over the next five years? Learn more at Follow and Fun fact: "dinobi" means "precious." *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Forty Acres Fresh Market, a Pop-Up Grocer on Chicago's West Side
01/28/2020
Forty Acres Fresh Market, a Pop-Up Grocer on Chicago's West Side
Liz says doing business in Chicago is "uncertain" because she's trying something outside of the box in the grocery market. Forty Acres Fresh Market is a pop-up grocer specializing in selling high quality fresh produce at an everyday low price. Founded in response to the dearth of fresh food options on Chicago's West Side, Liz is doubling down on community partnerships, grants, and building credibility in her neighborhood. Can this business model thrive in the long term?
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Autolyze Consulting, a Remote Food Industry Consultant in Chicago
01/21/2020
Autolyze Consulting, a Remote Food Industry Consultant in Chicago
Shelby describes doing business in Chicago as a "microcosm." Learn more about his journey through Chicago's food world on this week's episode! *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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R.B. Pest Solutions, Pest Control in Chatham
01/14/2020
R.B. Pest Solutions, Pest Control in Chatham
Robbie says doing business in Chicago is "full circle" because of how far she's come, from college professor to learning how to grow and manage her Chatham based pest control company to bidding on accounts with universities and other large companies and organizations. And it hasn't been easy. From licensing to human resources to managing your online reputation, running a business can sometimes feel like you're working twice as hard as having a job. So how exactly does she do it? Learn more at Follow and *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Catalyst Ranch, Creative Meeting and Event Space in Chicago Loop
01/07/2020
Catalyst Ranch, Creative Meeting and Event Space in Chicago Loop
Eva says doing business in Chicago is "challenging." That's putting it lightly! This founder of Catalyst Ranch, a creative meeting and event space in historic downtown Chicago, has run around in circles and jumped through hoops many times for everything from expanding their physical location, to getting the proper licensing to offer catering at their events, to getting a sign that people can actually see from the street. Find out why, despite these obstacles, Eva has no plans to leave Chicago and how she made the leap from corporate employee to thriving entrepreneur. Learn more at Follow , , and *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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The Silver Room, Eclectic Retail and Sound System Block Party in Hyde Park
12/31/2019
The Silver Room, Eclectic Retail and Sound System Block Party in Hyde Park
Eric describes doing business in Chicago as "exhilarating." Despite being a natural entrepreneur who loves his city and his community, it isn't always easy to navigate the city's codes and licenses. How exactly did Eric go from peddling Bart Simpson t-shirts on the street, to a lifestyle retail space in Wicker Park and a move to Hyde Park, to starting a block party in Hyde Park that attracts thousands of people, to pop-up shops around Chicago? Learn more at Follow @thesilverroom... Instagram: Facebook: Twitter: *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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StellaLily, a Mobile Art Business based in Ravenswood
12/17/2019
StellaLily, a Mobile Art Business based in Ravenswood
Juana describes doing business in Chicago as "frustrating." She spent much of her life savings outfitting a truck for mobile retail, but how's it going? Learn more at *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Yolis Tamales in Gage Park, a Tamale Vendor
12/10/2019
Yolis Tamales in Gage Park, a Tamale Vendor
Maria describes doing business in Chicago as "amazing." Her business was recently formalized with the passing a street vending ordinance. Learn more about what street food legalization means for her. *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Robust Coffee Lounge in Woodlawn, a Coffee Shop
12/03/2019
Robust Coffee Lounge in Woodlawn, a Coffee Shop
Jake describes doing business in Chicago as full of "opportunity". He decided to open a coffee shop when the markets crashed and he needed to find a new source of income. Ten years later, what does it mean to Jake to own his own business? You can learn more about Robust Coffee Lounge at or on *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Revolutionary Care, a traveling Massage Therapist
11/19/2019
Revolutionary Care, a traveling Massage Therapist
Rezna describes doing business in Chicago as "determination." She's determined to help Chicagoans understand their power to heal themselves. But how does she do it? Connect with Revolutionary Care on *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Lobster Gram of Mayfair Park, a Food Distributor
11/12/2019
Lobster Gram of Mayfair Park, a Food Distributor
Dan describes doing business in Chicago as "entrepreneurial". He built a market for shipping seafood from the trunk of his car. How has he handled the challenges of maintaining a potentially hazardous food business? You can learn more about Lobster Gram at or on Facebook *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Intoxicakes in Bronzeville, a Cupcake Maker
11/05/2019
Intoxicakes in Bronzeville, a Cupcake Maker
Kamilah describes doing business in Chicago as a "learning experience". She began by experimenting with boozy cupcakes in her kitchen. What inspired her to transition into a full-fledged business? You can learn more about Intoxicakes at or on Facebook *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Moon Meals of Hyde Park, a Food Producer
10/29/2019
Moon Meals of Hyde Park, a Food Producer
LaForce describes doing business in Chicago as "interesting." LaForce says you have to be patient when you're getting all the correct licenses and permits. How much time does he suggest you allot? You can learn more about Moon Meals at or on Facebook *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Friendly Wash Throughout Chicago, a Laundromat
10/22/2019
Friendly Wash Throughout Chicago, a Laundromat
Tony describes doing business in Chicago as "great". He worked as a real estate broker before opening a laundromat business. How did he choose the locations that would support the kind of business he was seeking to launch? You can learn more about Friendly Wash at or on Facebook *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Just Ice in Back of the Yards, a Craft Ice Producer
10/15/2019
Just Ice in Back of the Yards, a Craft Ice Producer
Rosanna describes doing business in Chicago as "a new thing every day". When she opened her craft ice business she had no competitors in Chicago. How did Rosanna go about navigating a new industry? You can learn more about Just Ice at icecoldjustice.com or on Facebook @icecoldjustice. *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Vested World in The Loop, an Angel Investor
10/08/2019
Vested World in The Loop, an Angel Investor
Euler describes doing business in Chicago as "extremely collaborative". As a lawyer, he focused on transactional work. How has his legal background informed the way he approaches the promotion of economic development in underserved areas? You can learn more about Vested World at or on *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Back of the Yards Coffee in Back of the Yards, a Coffee Shop
10/01/2019
Back of the Yards Coffee in Back of the Yards, a Coffee Shop
Jesse describes doing business in Chicago as "daunting." His neighborhood views him as a huge asset and his business is profitable - so what's in the way of his business' growth? To learn more about Jesse's Back of the Yards-based coffee shop, check out the business at and on Facebook at *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Nature's Little Recyclers Throughout Chicago, a Composter
09/24/2019
Nature's Little Recyclers Throughout Chicago, a Composter
Ed and Dale describe doing business in Chicago as "tough". They have faced skepticism from both their local communities and legislators. What challenges do they face as owners of a composting business in Chicago? *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Saucy Porka in The Loop & Hyde Park, a Restaurant
09/17/2019
Saucy Porka in The Loop & Hyde Park, a Restaurant
Amy describes doing business in Chicago as "rewarding but frustrating". When she began operating her food truck business, Amy had no idea she would end up launching the Food Truck Association and advocating for new legislation. What advice would she now give to small business owners looking to engage with City Hall and influence policy? You can learn more about Saucy Porka at or on *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Dearborn Denim of West Garfield Park, a Denim Brand and Manufacturer
09/10/2019
Dearborn Denim of West Garfield Park, a Denim Brand and Manufacturer
Robert describes doing business in Chicago as full of "good people". He says Chicago is one of the best places in America to launch an apparel manufacturing business. What about the city makes it a hospitable place for skilled workers in this industry? You can learn more about Dearborn Denim at or on *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Boombox Throughout Chicago, an Architect and Developer
09/03/2019
Boombox Throughout Chicago, an Architect and Developer
Katherine describes doing business in Chicago as "hilarious". When she first had the idea to support micro-retail, it was illegal. In what ways has Katherine worked with City Hall to create processes that support microbusiness owners? You can learn more about Boombox at or on *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Chicago Detours in The Loop, a Tour Guide Company
08/27/2019
Chicago Detours in The Loop, a Tour Guide Company
Amanda describes doing business in Chicago as "stimulating." She built a market of Chicagoans interested in off-the-beaten-path tourism. Where does she travel to show Chicago's historic side? You can learn more about Chicago Detours at or on *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Tea Squares of Englewood, a Food Manufacturer
08/20/2019
Tea Squares of Englewood, a Food Manufacturer
Jordan describes doing business in Chicago as "aspirational". He always wanted his business to benefit the local South Side community. What employment strategy has he chosen to further this mission? You can learn more about Tea Squares at and on Facebook *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Urban Roots Inc. of Bronzeville, a Lawn Care Company
08/06/2019
Urban Roots Inc. of Bronzeville, a Lawn Care Company
Jimmie and Tiffany describe doing business in Chicago as "full of opportunity". As minority owners of a landscaping business, what do they think the city of Chicago is doing right? You can learn more about Urban Roots Inc. at or on Facebook at *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Shop the Thrifty Fashionista, a Mobile Business, Fashion Resale Truck
07/30/2019
Shop the Thrifty Fashionista, a Mobile Business, Fashion Resale Truck
Jera and Joslyn describe doing business in Chicago as "interesting". This mother-daughter duo decided to open a mobile thrift boutique. What steps did they have to take to ensure they're compliant with the city's requirements? You can learn more about Shop the Thrifty Fashionista at or on Facebook *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Chicago Primal Gym in Lakeview, a Gym
07/23/2019
Chicago Primal Gym in Lakeview, a Gym
Sean and Grant describe doing business in Chicago as "a dream come true". They began their business from Sean's backyard and faced a variety of zoning challenges. What advice would they now give to self-employed gym owners? You can learn more about Chicago Primal Gym at or on Facebook *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Right Way Signs in Wicker Park, Sign Company
07/16/2019
Right Way Signs in Wicker Park, Sign Company
Alex describes doing business in Chicago as "frustrating". He began growing his father's sign company in Evanston, but relocated to Chicago. What about the Windy City and its workforce drew him there? You can learn more about Right Way Signs at or on Facebook *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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Haji Healing Salon in Chatham, a Yoga Studio and Wellness Center
07/09/2019
Haji Healing Salon in Chatham, a Yoga Studio and Wellness Center
Aya-Nikole describes doing business in Chicago as "vibrant and expansive". She once taught yoga is sunny California. What lured her back to Chicago? You can learn more about Haji Healing Salon at or on Facebook *** How’s Business? is created by the at the University of Chicago Law School (IJ Clinic) and is hosted by Stacy Massey. Podcast editing services by Andrea Klunder and Edwin Ruiz at Follow us on Instagram Chicago-based business owners who are interested in being featured on How’s Business? are especially invited to connect with us at !
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