The Local

Get the dish about new and upcoming restaurants in Wheaton and surrounding areas!  Mike discusses how his group is proud to bring back the word “service” in customer service.  How he learned important life skills in the restaurant business leading him to a very satisfying career.  As Ross from Friends reminds folks – it’s ok to PIVOT and take a risk!  Cheers!

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Dr. Jorgensen discusses his unexpected journey that took him from surgeon to coroner. He shares historical perspective on the creation of the coroner's office going all the way back to medieval times. He also provides perspective on the Fentanyl crisis and how his office is leading the fight against it.

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Bob has been a lifelong resident of Wheaton and knows where the bodies are buried – literally! As a matter of fact, as a young lad, he golfed amongst them. He reminisces of the good old days and is just as excited to see where Wheaton is headed. This story-rich interview goes from dunking to cocktail parties, and ping-pong balls! Also, more seriously Bob talks about how banking has affected customers during these turbulent times and how they’re faring the rate wars. How participating in community events is a way of giving back and teaching the younger generation the significance of this waning pastime.

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It’s not every day you get to sit down with a former Chicago Cub and pro baseball player who shares the same town as you. On this episode of The Local, Marc & Vickie hear fun-filled stories from Dave Otto about what it was like to be drafted to the major leagues alongside notable names like Bo Jackson and Barry Larkin, and how opting for college instead of the pros the first time around paid dividends down the road. 

If you’re a baseball fan, you’ll be hooked hearing a behind the scenes account of the Major Leagues, but even for those unfamiliar with the sport, all the wisdom, intrigue, and life lessons that Dave shares make this episode a must listen. Plus he has a GREAT sense of humor!

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From the first Latina Lieutenant Governor of Illinois to changing laws for fair housing, Evelyn Sanguinetti proudly shares her journey from growing up in poverty to living in Springfield. A refreshing story of failure, humility, and hard work that made her famously known as The Sidewalk Lady, and how she uses her experiences to make Wheaton a desirable place for businesses to thrive!

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From corporate guy to entrepreneur, Mark Bridges, founder of Grandpa Frank’s Candy, turned his grandfather’s family recipe into a business that has taken Wheaton by storm. Hear how Mark made his transition from consulting into business ownership, what inspires him, and how he inspires us – and a little bit about his custom candy for Fairhaven Wealth Management!

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In this re-release, learn how Ron Austin started his career at the former Big Eight firm Arthur Andersen & Co, and decided if he had to work this hard – he’d rather work for himself!  With unwavering support from his wife, it was a leap of faith that paid off with a lot of hard work. What a badge of honor it was to cold call clients and develop a relationship that comes to fruition. In keeping with the changing times, from cold calling to having staff work remotely, Ron talks about how culture is pivotal to success. Including the challenges of keeping the younger workforce engaged and happy. Including support for working remotely yet trying to impart the importance of the hands-on experience of being in the office, where everyday conversations are some of the best learning experiences.

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In this re-release, learn how Eric Schlickman started out as a young foreman with Legos on the playground, then became an architect by trade. He has a truly fascinating story of how networking and past experiences helped him take the leap of faith into the restaurant business. Eric shares how his faith, work ethic, and family are all part of reshaping the social landscape of Wheaton. He also dishes on some of his exciting new projects. His recent exploits are even mentioned in the Daily Herald! By the time you’re done listening, you’re going to want to open your own business! 

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This must listen podcast is chock-full of fascinating stories from smuggling drugs into Mexico to helping Navajo Indians!  SCARCE stands for School and Community Assistance for Recycling and Composting Education and how their unique name ties into the goal of promoting environmental education. 

Kay is a human LinkedIn and Federal Express wrapped up into one intrepid storyteller, and just one of her missions is to be dedicated to the kids on this planet. 

By the time you’re done hearing this story, you’ll want to visit her warehouse of all their products or consider donating to this massively important cause.

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In this classic episode of The Local, we revisit our conversation with Sue Wahlgren.

Sue began her ambassadorship at Cosley Zoo 39 years ago, when there were just two employees. Today, the team is over 30, and they're proudly accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Only 10% of United States zoos enjoy this honor!  

Find out about their Junior Zoo Keeper program for kids ages 12-17, the buzz about their UnCorked wine event, their annual golf outing, and all the other ways the zoo has a positive impact on our community. This year they’re celebrating 40 years!  

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