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.

On this episode of the Love Local Chicagoland Podcast, we're honored to welcome Pam Orr, the Executive Director of Fellowship Housing. As a nonprofit organization, Fellowship Housing helps single moms build a new legacy for themselves with financial support and housing.

Jason sits down with Karl Fay, a local pastor and artist, on a topic

Join us on the Love Local Chicagoland Podcast for a deep dive into mental illness with Matt Koenig. Matt shares his personal journey of triumph over his own struggles and the importance of transparency in discussing mental health.

Matt's message is clear: seeking help and honesty about mental health is paramount. He bravely shares his own battles with depression and anxiety, guiding us through the ups and downs that shaped him.

In addition, Matt delves into the societal pressures that can affect mental health and underscores the significance of self-acceptance. His book, "How Are You Doing? Relational Discipleship for the Everyday Person," offers insights on forging meaningful connections and rediscovering joy in life.

For our watchers, this episode is an honest, heartfelt dissection of the human condition. It speaks to our message at the core- living is tough, but together, we can lift each other up and make the world a better place.

In this episode of the Love Local Chicagoland Podcast, we sit down with Natalie Rodriguez, the Executive Director of Hopeful Beginnings. Join us as we explore the organization's mission and the invaluable- and free- services it extends to families.

Natalie sheds light on Hopeful Beginnings' commitment to the well-being of parents and children alike, fostering a healthy environment for budding families. The organization stands as a pillar of support, offering free counseling to parents navigating the challenging terrain of postpartum depression, anxiety, and/or loss. They extend a compassionate hand to families in need, providing essential resources for their children.

Part of what makes Hopeful Beginnings unique is its handling of infant adoption, where they foster loving and open relationships between birth parents and adoptive families. Natalie delves into the beautiful synergy that emerges from these partnerships, creating a nurturing environment for children to thrive.

At its heart, Hopeful Beginnings wants to equip parents with the tools and resources they need to become the best caregivers possible. Whether you're a parent seeking support, an advocate for community welfare, or simply curious, we hope you’ll tune into this episode and learn more about Hopeful Beginnings!

To learn more about Hopeful Beginnings, please visit:

https://www.hopefulbeginning.org/

On this episode of the Love Local Chicagoland Podcast, we have the privilege of speaking with Yeulanda Brown-Degala, the co-founder of the Good Neighbors Network, and Rachael Schmidt Hooker, the nonprofit's board president. Together, they share their journey and the organization's transformative impact on the Chicagoland community.

Born from a desire to help community members in need, the Good Neighbors Network helps provide assistance in the form of food, supplies, scholarships, and more. Tune in today and learn how their story began– and where it's going!

On this episode of the Love Local Chicagoland Podcast, we're honored to have Roxie Parikh as our guest. Roxie is not only a breast cancer survivor but also an advocate for the crucial role that community support plays in the journey of cancer warriors.

Join us as Roxie shares her personal journey through the challenges of breast cancer. She emphasizes the importance of celebrating small victories, which often become beacons of hope on the arduous path to recovery.

Beyond her own journey, Roxie sheds light on the importance of openness and storytelling within the cancer community. She explains how sharing experiences and offering support can be a powerful force in dispelling fear and providing solace to those undergoing treatment.

This episode is a heartfelt testament to resilience and the power of community. Whether you're on a personal journey with cancer, a caregiver, or someone seeking to understand the challenges involved, Roxie's story is a story of triumph and hope.

Jason and Monica sit down with Amy Willhelmi, a licensed therapist and