In this enlightening episode of the Love Local Chicagoland podcast, Jason Stallard welcomes Jason Alicea to the studio. The episode dives deep into Jason Alicea's inspiring journey of overcoming financial struggles and the critical role mental health has played in his life. Through candid conversations, they explore the importance of mental health for men, debunking societal stigmas and highlighting effective strategies for overcoming personal challenges. Jason Alicea shares the origins and mission of his nonprofit, Don't Limit Your Identity Foundation, and offers valuable lessons from his personal and professional life.

Listeners will gain insights into practical steps for improving mental health, the significance of seeking therapy, and the necessity of celebrating small victories. Jason Alicea emphasizes the importance of finding one’s purpose and living a life of impact and service. The episode is rich with motivational stories and pragmatic advice intended to inspire and uplift anyone facing similar adversities.

In this episode of the Love Local Chicagoland Podcast, Jason Stallard sits down with entrepreneur and author Melanie Santostefano to discuss her journey and the release of her new book, "Thoughts Become Things." Melanie shares insights from her two-decade-long career in public relations, reflections on her personal life, and valuable lessons that have shaped her path. This conversation delves into her principles for a fulfilling life, emphasizing the importance of gratitude, humility, honor, grit, faith, and forgiveness.

In this groundbreaking episode of the Love Local Chicagoland podcast, Jason Stallard welcomes Vito Roppo, a distinguished mortgage lender from Fairway Mortgage, to share his insights and experiences. Broadcasting from the newly built Love Local studio at Bell Works Chicago, this conversation dives into the heart of Vito’s professional journey, his unique approaches in the mortgage industry, and his unwavering commitment to community involvement.

In this engaging episode of the Love Local Chicagoland series, Jason Stallard and Aaron Bondi sit down with Matt Irvin, a visionary entrepreneur and the mastermind behind Cocial. Matt shares his inspiring journey from the Midwest to California and back, detailing how the experiences and relationships formed during the pandemic led to the creation of Cocial. Through insightful discussions, Matt emphasizes the importance of community, connection, and support in today's rapidly changing work environment.

As the conversation dives into the evolution and offerings of Cocial, Matt elaborates on how the pandemic fueled his desire to build a space that goes beyond traditional co-working. He discusses Cocial's various spaces, including private offices, flexible memberships, and therapy rooms, which cater to a wide array of professionals and community members. The episode also highlights the importance of local businesses, mental health, and the power of creating impactful, human-centered experiences in the workplace.

In this episode of the Love Local Chicagoland podcast, Jason Stallard engages in a deep conversation with Nicole Bolden, co-owner and founder of Thriving with Baby. Nicole shares her personal journey, from growing up in a family of entrepreneurs to discovering her passion for social

Thanks to our sponsor Love Local Chicagoland!

Welcome to another episode of Love Local Chicagoland's Brand Worthy series, where Jason Stallard and Aaron sit down with Bret Mooney, a financial consultant at Mooney Lyons Financial. They discuss his professional journey, leadership philosophy, and the dynamic financial strategies that set his firm apart.

In this episode of the Love Local Chicagoland podcast, join Jason as he sits down with Brandon Cork, a salesperson at Pulse Technology and a passionate advocate for the community. They discuss Brandon's upbringing in Gary, Indiana, the challenges he faced, and the importance of having positive role models. They also delve into the issues affecting the black community, such as police brutality and systemic racism. Brandon emphasizes the need for empathy, understanding, and open-mindedness in order to create a better tomorrow. Tune in to hear Brandon's inspiring story and his insights on building a stronger community.

In this episode of the Love Local Chicagoland podcast, mental health experts Destiny Salazar and Susana Shymanik from Bridge Youth and Family Services discuss the current state of mental health in our communities. They explore the impact of COVID-19 on children and teens, the barriers to accessing mental health services, and the importance of collaboration and community support. With advice for parents on communicating with their children and a number of resources to help, these two women bring much-needed awareness and support for the critical problems our youth is facing today.

You know them from Rep's Place and Brothers' Ribs, but do you know the owners? Mike Reppe and Katie Burriss join us to talk about how they got started, and how they came to work together! From hardships to triumphs, these culinary experts share their experiences in running a restaurant in Chicago's northwest suburbs. If you've ever had a burger or barbecue from them, you can't miss this episode!

On this episode of the Love Local Chicagoland podcast, Jason sits down with Nate Ruben to dive deep into self-awareness, entrepreneurship, and the power of serving communities. Headstrong and driven, Nate shares his journey and how it has shaped his entrepreneurial lifestyle.