Steven Galanis is the co-founder of Cameo and a proud Chicagoan. He takes us inside the company’s journey from its scrappy beginnings in Chicago to becoming a global platform, reflecting on the challenges of building a startup in the Midwest and how the team adapted through both the pandemic boom and the subsequent difficult period.

In this episode, we cover:

• The very Chicago origin story of Cameo (yes, it involves O’Hare traffic).
• How the company soared during the pandemic—and rebuilt after layoffs.
• Why Steven kept Cameo headquartered in Chicago instead of moving to the coasts.
• The bold decision to bring employees back to the office—with perks like $10k raises and daily lunches.
• Chicago’s role in shaping tech, talent, and grit.

Cameo isn’t just a startup—it’s a Chicago story through and through.

Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and comment; it helps us continue to bring you the voices behind the institutions, people, and places that make Chicago extraordinary.

RIOPOP, the ultimate summer refreshment, sponsors this episode. Non-alcoholic, low carbonation, and infused with electrolytes, perfect for a day at the museum or soaking up the Chicago sun.

Connect with the hosts of DIBS on Instagram Nick Sarantos and Mallory Waxman