My Chicago hosted by John Grafft

We listen to Tim Wurman’s story on operating and owning a family-run independent bookstore in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood located at the six-way intersection of Lincoln Avenue, Wellington Avenue, and Southport Avenue. Three Avenues Bookshop is a general interest bookstore open to all story lovers, and aims to promote literacy, connection, and engagement within our community, city, and beyond.

We sit down and talk shop with Gianna, the owner of Rebel Lash & Brow Studios (Rebellash) in the heart of Lake View. She has been an eyelash extensions specialist for 8 years and aims to provide only the best lashes and brows solution in Chicagoland. See full video interview link in our bio!

#chicagorealestate #chicagoentrepreneurs #chicagosmallbusiness #eyelashextensions #chicagoeyebrows

Stuart Grannen, founder of Architectural Artifacts, Inc. (AAI) talks shop with us on collecting unique statement pieces and treasures while delving into his background on the passion.

Following its 35-year legacy as one of the nation’s top destinations for globally sourced design and architectural statement pieces, AAI has reimagined a 35,000-square-foot Mid Century-style school to introduce its latest concept. Brainchild of legendary antiques dealer and Founder Stuart Grannen in partnership with Robert and Debra Baum of Bedderman Hospitality, AAI will infuse hospitality with world-class design. The concept will invite guests to experience chef-driven food and beverage offerings, as well as multi-use private and large-scale event spaces in addition to its signature art, antiques, and one-of-a-kind furnishings.

We sit down with Mark Pomarico, Design Principal, and Andy Weber, Principal, at Booth Hansen and dive into the process and passion behind designing homes, apartments, and communal structures among other properties in Chicago and around the country.

Founded in 1980, Booth Hansen is a nationally-recognized architecture, planning, and interiors firm. As a medium sized firm, they provide project and design leadership with experienced principal architects who are engaged and attentive to the needs of every project no matter the size. Through commercial, cultural and educational projects, as well as multi-family and single-family residences, our contribution to the built environment aims to capture the unique quality of each project.

We sit down with Dr Kelly Simms, ND, CNS, and breakdown her specialization in women's health and fertility. Dr. Simms and her staff provide Chicago-area patients with comprehensive naturopathic care, personalized service and an individualized plan focused on both underlying causes and end results. Dr. Simms views her role as that of a teacher, one who empowers and guides patients at every step of their journey. In addition to holding a doctorate in Naturopathic medicine, Dr. Simms is a Certified Nutrition Specialist® professional. A Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS) is a nutrition practitioner or a person who uses nutrition therapy to address health needs.

We get into the nitty gritty of artists and the art scene with Fidel Rodriguez, owner of Artspace 8. The gallery, located heart of Chicago's Magnificent Mile, focuses on contemporary fine art paintings, prints and sculptures by emerging and established artists from around the world as well as a destination for those looking for something to hang on the wall of a Gold Coast penthouse. 

We sit down with Christopher Zwirn as he explains the process and beginnings of his custom signs, banners and vehicle wraps business while navigating the pitfalls of a small independent business. We also take a tour of the shop for an in-depth look at the details of the work while Chris discusses growing up in Logan Square. Thank you for watching My Chicago.

We sit down with Bucktown Built founder Jerry Rodman and discuss his passion for woodwork and the ups and downs of running a small business. Jerry launched Bucktown Built named for the Chicago neighborhood where he lives with his wife and two dogs while located in the Workshop 4200 creator space full of fellow local artisans.

Walk with us through a facility tour of and Bucktown Built provided by Jerry Rodman. Jerry Rodman launched Bucktown Built named for the Chicago neighborhood where he lives with his wife and two dogs, to establish a dedicated workshop in a building full of fellow local artisans, build relationships with trustworthy exotic hardwood suppliers from the US Pacific Northwest to Costa Rica and work with top interior designers and local businesses in the Midwest.

We chat with Konrad Koczwara, CEO of Elevated Living, and his all-in-one "Branded Resident App" that combines traditional operations with hotel style on-demand personal services and experiences at luxury apartment buildings while also discussing his upbringings as an entrepreneur.