Always Andersonville: The Podcast

This week, I am joined by internationally acclaimed magician David Parr and Joey Cranford, CEO, Founder, and co - owner of Chicago Magic Lounge.

Joey Cranford is an actor, director, and marketing executive, best known as the founder and CEO of the Chicago Magic Lounge. Trained at The Second City, he performed with I.O. and the Annoyance Theater before transitioning to film and TV, including roles in “Man of Steel” and “Better Call Saul.” His passion for Chicago history and close-up magic inspired the creation of the Chicago Magic Lounge, a top venue celebrating the city's historic magic bar scene.

This week, I'm joined by Janine Ramirez and Mike Waszkowski, owners of Rivers & Roads Cafe. Chicagoans Janine and Mike share a passion for adventure, food, and community. Janine, raised in a Puerto Rican household, discovered her culinary passion early, while Mike's adventurous spirit led him to rugby and philosophy. After a stint in LA, they returned to Chicago to realize their dream of creating a vibrant community hub with Rivers & Roads.

You know them, you love them, but what's their story?! This week, I am joined by one of Chicago’s favorite premier bands, Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute!

This week, I am joined by Phil McFarland, General manger of THC beverages Wherehouse Beverage Co producer and distributor of our Midsommarfest THC beverage sponsor, WYNK seltzer. Phil is a seasoned sales, marketing, and hospitality executive with 25 years of experience. Formerly VP at Canopy Growth, he spearheaded strategic transitions and launched over 115 products. Phil comes with significant experience in beer industry leadership, notably at Half Acre Beer Company.

This week, we are joined by Andy Johnston, owner of Andy’s Art, Antique’s, & Oddities.

Andy’s Art, Antiques & Oddities was born from the cherished memories of Andy's late mother, Billie, a kindred spirit in the love for art, décor, and unique finds. Inspired by their global adventures and Billie's knack for discovering the extraordinary, Andy decided to pursue entrepreneurship, guided by childhood ambitions. Named after his mother's endearing nickname for him, the boutique specializes in handpicked, one-of-a-kind treasures for homes, aiming to evoke happiness, comfort, and curiosity. Andy's dedication extends to personalized consultations, ensuring clients find their perfect piece. With Billie's spirit infusing every aspect, Andy’s Antiques embodies a lifelong passion and a tribute to a beloved mother.

This week, we are joined by owner Chef Rich Wang and manager X Wang, of Andersonville’s newest restaurant, Minyoli, opening at 5420 N Clark Street.

This week, we are joined by Silas Leslie. Silas (they/them) serves as Hire Trans Now Coordinator, Trainer, and Data Analyst at Chicago Therapy Collective. Silas provides free training & education built around actionable & accessible best practices to small businesses (many of which are in Andersonville). As a biracial, queer, trans, and neurodivergent person, Silas is deeply committed to an intersectional approach to diversity. Having called the Andersonville area home for a decade, Silas is dedicated to helping Andersonville be accessible, diverse, and thriving.

This week, we are joined by Eddy Ocampo. Founder and Owner of Skin Care For Gents and of the upcoming new addition to Andersonville, Apothecary EO. Eddy, an Andersonville native and seasoned dancer turned skincare expert, brings over a decade of experience in the beauty industry. As a licensed esthetician and laser technician, he has worked with top skincare brands like Image Skincare and PCA Skincare. Eddy's dedication to men's skincare led him to create a website catering to the everyday person's esthetic needs. His mission? Revolutionizing men's skincare, making it accessible and mainstream.

We're excited to present this special episode discussing the state of drag in Chicago and the country. Drag is important for its role in artistic expression, challenging gender norms, fostering inclusivity, serving as a platform for activism, providing safe spaces, offering entertainment and contributing to the cultural and historical fabric of society. 

This is our final episode in our series for our Say Hej campaign in January Health & Wellness month. In each episode, we’ve spoken with local experts on different aspects of health and wellness, correct some common misconceptions, and offer some insight and resources for achieving your own state of wellness in the new year.