Jason sits down with Joe Weisman of the Ill Noise Business Playbook for a conversation that hits close to home. Together, they talk about why small businesses and local nonprofits matter so much and how they show up every day for the people and neighborhoods that need them most.

From championing the underdog to sharing stories that actually mean something, Jason and Joe dig into what it takes to build real connections and lasting legacies right here at the local level. Along the way, they swap personal stories, throw in a few classic movie references, and remind us why small businesses are truly the heartbeat of our communities. This episode is a feel good reminder that when you focus local, real positive change follows.

Jason sits down with Katie Davis, a true trailblazer in the sales world, for a real and refreshing conversation about what happens when teams choose collaboration over competition. They dive into why diverse teams matter, how the right systems can lift everyone up, and what it looks like to build a culture rooted in trust and shared goals.

Katie opens up about her journey navigating male-dominated spaces and the lessons she’s learned along the way, especially the power of leaning on one another instead of going it alone. At the heart of it all is a simple truth we love around here: success is better when it’s shared.

If you believe in building strong teams, supporting your people, and creating a village that wins together, this conversation is for you. Tune in and get inspired to rethink the way you approach sales, community, and growth.

Kevin Kramer, Director of Economic Development for Hoffman Estates, sits down with Jason Stallard on the Love Local Chicagoland podcast for a heartfelt conversation about what truly brings people together. They talk about why being present matters more than being perfect, how technology can sometimes make us feel more alone, and simple ways we can all build deeper, more meaningful relationships. Kevin opens up about navigating life as an introvert while still craving connection, and he reminds us just how far listening, empathy, and genuine care can go. Tune in to feel inspired to show up for each other and strengthen the communities we call home.

Jason sits down with Louie Sharp for a conversation that feels honest, hopeful, and full of heart. Louie opens up about the lessons he’s learned along the way, from his time in the US Marine Corps to building a business and hosting his own podcast. Together, they talk about what it really takes to grow as a person — doing the inner work, facing adversity head-on, and choosing forgiveness even when it isn’t easy.

At its core, this episode is about leading with love and integrity, and how those choices can change not just our own lives but the communities around us. Through real stories and candid moments, Jason and Louie remind us that joy can be found even in hard seasons, and that understanding each other matters more than ever in the times we’re living in.

Palatine Police Officer Erica Amezcua opens up about her story in a way that stays with you. Sitting down with Jason on the Love Local Chicagoland podcast, she shares how perseverance, faith, and the right people in her corner helped her rise above a tough upbringing. Erica talks about breaking generational cycles, finding mentors who truly see you, and why community policing matters so deeply.Her journey is a reminder that hope is real and that everyday heroes walk among us — especially for young girls who dream of creating change. In this honest, uplifting conversation, Erica and Jason explore resilience, understanding, and the incredible things that can happen when you believe in yourself and the people around you.

Kelly DeGrazia has spent 29 years teaching kids, lifting them up, and helping them grow, and on this week’s Love Local Chicagoland podcast, she sits down with Jason for a heartfelt conversation about what really matters in education today.

Kelly shares how she builds kindness, confidence, and community in her classroom, and why emotional learning is just as important as academics. They talk about setting healthy screen-time boundaries, supporting kids in a post-COVID world, and the powerful role teachers play in shaping values that last a lifetime.

It is an honest, hopeful look at how small daily interactions can help kids become resilient, compassionate humans. If you care about the future of education or simply enjoy hearing from people who make a difference, you will want to give this one a listen.

Join Jason from the Love Local Chicagoland podcast as he sits down with Elizabeth from Blessings in a Backpack Chicago and Frank from Spunky Dunkers to tackle the important issue of childhood hunger. In this episode, they share how these local organizations are teaming up to make a real difference—like creating a special donut to raise awareness and support their mission. Through heartfelt stories and community-driven initiatives, they shine a light on the challenges children face with food insecurity and show how everyone can play a part in helping. Tune in to hear inspiring ideas, meaningful collaborations, and ways to reimagine community support that truly makes an impact.

Join hosts Jason and Samir this Veterans Day as they shine a spotlight on the inspiring work of the Giving Group, featuring board member Liz Karsten. In this special episode, you’ll hear how their community initiatives support veterans, kids, and pets — including a heartfelt room remodel that brought comfort and care to a deserving veteran.You’ll also meet Mike Powers of Powers Painting and Decorating, who helped make the transformation possible, and veteran Dino, who shares how community, camaraderie, and local support have made a profound impact on his life.This Veterans Day, we’re celebrating the spirit of service — both from those who’ve worn the uniform and from the neighbors and businesses who step up to give back. Tune in to discover how collaboration, compassion, and community can make all the difference.

In this edition of Local Talks, moderator Nicole Bolden guides a thoughtful conversation with panelists Raghu Sundara, Mary Liccardi, Karl Fay, Erin Chan Ding, and James Cheng as they explore what it means to find peace in the midst of life’s busyness and uncertainty.

Together, they share personal stories, practical insights, and reflections on mindfulness, balance, and community connection. Whether you’re seeking calm in your daily routine or inspiration for personal growth, this conversation offers meaningful takeaways for anyone navigating today’s fast-paced world.

Community advocate Justin O’Rourke joins Jason Stallard for a heart-to-heart conversation about what it means to create real, lasting impact in the Chicago area. Together, they explore how compassion and courage can drive powerful change through mental health advocacy, LGBTQ+ support, and immigrant solidarity.Justin shares his personal journey and the life lessons that inspire his work—reminding us that empathy and action go hand in hand. Through stories of resilience and hope, he highlights how small acts of kindness and understanding can ripple out to strengthen entire communities.This episode invites listeners to stand with marginalized voices, embrace diversity, and lead with love. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about courage, compassion, and building a more inclusive tomorrow—one connection at a time.