In the heart of Chicago, Brad Tietz has dedicated his career to understanding the intricate workings of government, policy, and business relations. As the Vice President of Government Relations and Strategy at the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, Brad’s insight into the city’s business ecosystem is both wide-ranging and deeply impactful. For over 15 years, he’s helped shape policies that aim to enhance Chicago’s economy while balancing the practical realities of politics.

Brad’s story begins with a foundation rooted in community values. He studied political science at Illinois Wesleyan University, an experience that sparked his interest in local governance. Brad credits these early years with helping him hone a simple but powerful principle in his career: “Work hard, know your stuff, and be good to people.” This advice, passed down by a seasoned lobbyist, has been Brad’s guiding mantra. In a field often marked by high stakes and complex dynamics, Brad emphasizes the importance of respect and transparency, even when advocating for difficult policies.

Early in his career, Brad served as a legislative analyst, a position that introduced him to high-profile issues within Illinois’s House of Representatives. This role required him to dissect legislation, evaluate stakeholders, and understand both the promises and potential pitfalls of each bill. Brad describes these years as challenging yet foundational, as they offered a front-row seat to the legislative processes that would later shape his approach to advocacy.

Today, Brad’s work at the Chicagoland Chamber spans initiatives in economic development, workforce growth, and strategic policy advocacy. His influence is evident in initiatives such as the Illinois Data Center Tax Incentive. Originally a niche sector, data centers have since seen exponential growth, catapulting Illinois to second in the nation for data center development. This progress was no accident; it was a result of years of collaboration between Brad, industry leaders, and legislators who recognized the sector’s potential. “Data centers started with just a 1% growth rate before the incentive,” Brad says. “Now, we’re seeing over 20% growth.”

Economic growth, however, is not Brad’s sole focus. Workforce development, especially in underserved communities, is central to his mission. Recently, he worked to secure funding for community college programs tailored to the data center industry, creating pathways to high-paying jobs without a traditional four-year degree. These roles often pay well over $100,000, a major economic boost for residents who previously had limited access to such opportunities. This approach embodies Brad’s belief that economic policies should benefit every part of the community, fostering a sustainable model for local growth.

Brad also recognizes the importance of diversifying Chicago’s industry base. He’s championed initiatives in clean energy, life sciences, and film, all of which offer substantial job creation potential. One standout achievement has been the expansion of the film tax credit, which has reinvigorated Chicago as a sought-after production hub. As he explains, “Partnering with industry and labor organizations, we developed a fund that helps train residents from the South and West Sides in film production.” This program provides participants with skills for an industry where starting salaries often exceed $80,000.

Looking forward, Brad sees housing and childcare as two critical areas that Chicago must address to support economic resilience. Both issues directly impact workforce availability, and in Brad’s view, they are integral to attracting major investments, like the proposed $20 billion quantum computing campus. With an eye on the future, Brad is working to ensure that Chicago’s infrastructure can accommodate these next-generation industries.

When asked how he has sustained his drive over the years, Brad credits his early morning...

Kendra Cowart’s story is one of those rare, layered tales that invites you to question what you think you know about the so-called “right path” in life. Kendra’s journey began in the western suburbs of Chicago, where, despite an upbringing she describes as privileged, she never quite felt like she fit in. Struggling to connect with the people around her, she constantly felt a need to explore life beyond the surface-level ambitions that others seemed content with. For Kendra, life’s rejections and obstacles weren’t just hurdles to overcome—they were turning points that ultimately led her to a more fulfilling life.

At 21, Kendra met a mentor who changed her perspective on what life could be. This mentor didn’t just provide career advice or life tips; she asked Kendra a fundamental question, one that would shape her entire approach to life: “How are people experiencing you?” This question opened up an avenue of self-reflection that many of us don’t explore until much later in life, if at all. Kendra realized she was seeking validation in the wrong places and needed to understand herself first to make meaningful connections with others. This wasn’t about changing her personality but about recognizing her strengths and focusing on where she could grow.

Despite her eventual focus on coaching, Kendra’s path was anything but linear. She enrolled at the University of Missouri (Mizzou), hoping to find her “tribe,” but her expectations were met with more isolation. Mizzou, she found, wasn’t the dream college experience she’d hoped for. But this setback only fueled her to look inward. Watching others seemingly glide through life while she struggled, Kendra yearned for a community that shared her drive and curiosity. Her search would eventually lead her to the world of network marketing, a turning point that shifted her focus to personal development.

Network marketing introduced Kendra to a world of personal growth seminars and self-help books, a journey that would expose her to people living the life she envisioned. She credits this period as a “blessing in disguise”—one that equipped her with tools to face life’s challenges head-on. Through workshops, seminars, and a budding interest in personal development, Kendra began to see the true value of self-improvement. For her, these experiences highlighted the importance of mindset, a perspective she now brings into her own coaching.

Today, Kendra is a full-time coach, working with the Life Score Foundation on the South Side of Chicago, a wellness resource center focused on social and emotional learning, workforce development, and financial literacy. She describes her role not just as a job but as a calling. Working with Life Score allows her to bring the same transformative tools that shaped her life to others in her community. In Kendra’s words, she’s there to be “the spark plug,” igniting potential in people who may not yet see it in themselves.

Kendra’s story is also one of resilience in the face of societal expectations. As a Black woman, she’s seen how people often view her through a specific lens, one that doesn’t always align with her experiences or ambitions. She’s driven by a desire to dismantle stereotypes and build bridges between communities, bringing a holistic wellness approach to spaces that might otherwise focus only on the bottom line.

Through her coaching, Kendra helps clients recognize that setbacks and rejections aren’t just unfortunate events to get over. “It’s all protection,” she says, emphasizing that everything that happens—whether it’s people walking away or situations not working out—is ultimately for your highest good. She believes this mindset has allowed her to navigate life’s challenges with a sense of peace, knowing that every rejection has, in fact, redirected her toward something better.

For those struggling to find their footing, Kendra’s approach is refreshing. She encourages you to embrace the unknown and to

In the heart of Chicago, Julio Bañales took a leap of faith that not many would. Opening his dog grooming business, Mouse House, in the South Loop wasn’t just a professional move; it was a deeply personal decision born out of love, loss, and a desire to make a difference. After years of working for big companies like PetSmart and local family-run businesses, Julio realized that his passion went beyond the grooming table. It was about creating a space where animals could feel loved, and owners could trust that their pets were getting the best care possible.

When COVID hit, the world shifted for Julio, like it did for so many. He had been working steadily, but the pandemic made him rethink his priorities. The loss of his beloved dog, Maui, served as a wake-up call. "It made me realize, life is short," Julio says, reflecting on that time. It wasn’t that he disliked his job at Chrysler’s; it just wasn’t fulfilling him in the way he needed. The loss of Maui inspired Julio to open Mouse House in honor of his dog. "If we hadn’t found the location that we did, I don’t know if Mouse House would even be here," he admits. But once the doors opened, there was no turning back.

Julio’s approach to dog grooming goes far beyond the basics. For him, it’s not just about cutting fur or cleaning paws; it’s about love. "We promise to love your animal the way you do," he shares. Julio’s philosophy is centered on comfort over vanity. If a dog’s coat is matted, it’s not about maintaining a specific look; it’s about ensuring the pet’s well-being. This functional approach is what sets Mouse House apart from other groomers in the city. Julio wants each dog to feel like they're in a safe, loving space, and that’s why he’s built an environment where animals can be animals.

Decorating the space has been another labor of love for Julio. Every season, Mouse House is transformed with new themes, bringing warmth and personality into the shop. From festive blankets to seasonal decor, Julio creates an atmosphere that clients—both pets and humans—appreciate. “People love to see the decorations,” he says, and it’s clear that this attention to detail extends to every aspect of his business.

One of the hardest parts of Julio’s work is dealing with senior dogs or pets who are a little more skittish. "I like to do meet and greets," he explains, noting that some dogs come in with nervous energy, especially if they’ve had bad experiences at other groomers. "We try to eliminate every stress factor," he says, describing how he adjusts the environment to make each pet as comfortable as possible. The open, kennel-free setup at Mouse House helps dogs feel less confined and more at ease.

Over the years, Julio has built a team that shares his passion. Working alongside his wife, Lisa, and his growing team of groomers, Mouse House has become more than just a business—it’s a family. "It’s a growing family," Julio says, adding that their camaraderie extends to the dogs they care for. "The dogs feed off the environment," he shares, emphasizing how much the energy in the room affects the animals' experience.

When it comes to running his business, Julio admits he didn’t have all the answers at first. But that didn’t stop him. "There’s no better time than now," he advises anyone considering starting their own venture. Julio dove into entrepreneurship with heart, learning as he went. He didn’t wait for the perfect business plan or website. Instead, he trusted his instincts, leaned into his passion, and let social media do the talking. "Instagram has been a big help," he says, noting that his humorous posts and behind-the-scenes videos have helped build a loyal following.

For anyone thinking about jumping into their passion, Julio offers this advice: "Don’t go into it with a money mindset. Go into it with love, and everything will fall into place." It’s that love that has...

Shauna Young, a woman of resilience and strength, shares her story of growth, healing, and self-discovery after going through a tough divorce. It’s a journey not just about recovering from a broken relationship but rediscovering who she is and what she truly wants. For many, moving on might mean jumping into the next relationship. But for Shauna, it was clear that true healing comes from within.



Shauna's decision to step back and not rush into dating immediately after her divorce wasn’t easy. "I suggest you do not date right away," she says firmly, acknowledging that many people feel the urge to fill the emotional gap by seeking new partners. Instead, Shauna chose to focus on understanding herself first. "You need to heal. You need to figure out really what you want," she emphasizes. This period of introspection helped her avoid repeating old patterns and attracting the same types of partners she’d left behind.

She speaks candidly about the pressure women feel to couple up quickly after a breakup. Society often expects them to bounce back, but Shauna’s perspective challenges that norm. The strength to stand alone, to allow space for emotional and mental recovery, is what sets her apart. "I was attracting the same man I was married to," she admits, revealing that trying to date before fully healing led her back into similar unhealthy dynamics.

Shauna’s turning point came when she decided to pause, take a step back, and focus on self-improvement. "Everything was just a competition," she reflects, describing how she initially approached dating as a way to prove that she could move on faster than her ex. But the reality is, healing doesn’t happen on a schedule, and Shauna realized that trying to rush it only led to more confusion and pain.

For Shauna, it wasn’t just about getting over someone; it was about finding herself again. When she looked at old photos, it wasn’t just her appearance that seemed different. “It was in my eyes,” she shares, recalling how even her smiles back then masked deep sadness and emptiness. It’s a sentiment many people can relate to — that disconnect between the face they show the world and the truth of what they feel inside.

Shauna found solace in her children and her career, areas of her life she could nurture and grow without the complications of a new relationship. It’s a decision that has paid off in unexpected ways. "I see it with other women," she says. "They’re trying so hard to find that partnership, but they end up losing themselves in the process." Instead, Shauna’s experience reminds us that focusing on one’s own growth can lead to a more fulfilling life — partner or not.

Now, Shauna shares her story with other women, particularly those over 40 who feel pressured to settle down again. Her message is clear: take your time, focus on healing, and don’t let anyone — not even yourself — rush the process. “You can’t force it,” she states, with the wisdom of someone who’s lived through it. When the right partner comes along, it won’t be out of desperation or loneliness but out of a place of wholeness and readiness.

Ultimately, Shauna’s story is about the power of choosing yourself. Whether it’s building a business, being present for your children, or simply learning to love your own company, Shauna proves that fulfillment and happiness come from within. The next relationship, if and when it happens, will be an addition — not a solution.

David Herrera embodies the spirit of Chicago, a city known for its grit, resilience, and ambition. Born and raised in West Town, David’s connection to his community runs deep, with roots that stretch back to the 1950s when his family first settled in the area. His story is one of perseverance, a commitment to bettering both himself and the neighborhood he calls home.

Growing up in what was once a tough, working-class neighborhood, David witnessed firsthand the transformation of West Town from a struggling community to one of Chicago's most sought-after neighborhoods. “We stuck it out through the tough times in the eighties and early nineties before the neighborhood started gentrifying,” David recalls. This personal history informs his passion for real estate development, a field in which he has made significant strides over the past several years.

David’s academic journey took him through Loyola University, where he studied economics and finance—subjects that piqued his interest in the mechanisms of wealth creation. “Studying economics and finance and working for Wall Street firms, you really start to understand how money's created, wealth is created,” he explains. This knowledge, combined with a deep understanding of his local community, laid the groundwork for his foray into real estate development.

His first major project, a four-flat in Ukrainian Village, was a resounding success. “I ended up more than doubling the capital on my first deal,” David shares, his voice reflecting both pride and the satisfaction of seeing his hard work pay off. This project was not just about financial gain; it was about creating value and reinvesting in the community that shaped him.

David’s journey wasn’t without challenges. The volatility of the corporate world, particularly during the financial downturn of 2008, led him to reconsider his career path. “I didn’t see too much loyalty in the corporate space for a guy like myself,” he admits. This realization pushed him to leave the corporate world behind in 2016 and pursue his passion for real estate full-time. His ability to pivot and adapt to new circumstances is a testament to his resilience—a quality that has served him well both in business and in life.

Beyond real estate, David’s commitment to his community led him to run for alderman in his neighborhood. It wasn’t an easy decision, nor was it a cheap endeavor, but it was a move motivated by a desire to protect the interests of his fellow residents. “I’m from here, right? I want to make money here too, right? I want a piece of the action because I’m from here,” David says, expressing his frustration with the obstacles he faced from established politicians. His bid for alderman was a bold statement: he wasn’t willing to stand by while outsiders dictated the future of his community.

Though his run for office didn’t result in a victory, David has no regrets. The experience only deepened his commitment to his neighborhood and reinforced his belief in the importance of community-driven development. “My loyalty is to the community where I grew up,” he emphasizes, a sentiment that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt a strong connection to their roots.

David’s story is a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about financial gain; it’s about making a lasting impact on the community around you. Whether through real estate development, political activism, or simply being a good neighbor, David Herrera exemplifies what it means to give back to the place that gave you so much.

As he continues to invest in both his neighborhood and his own personal growth, David remains focused on the future. His plans include expanding his investments beyond Chicago, with ventures in Mexico and other regions. But no matter where his business takes him, Chicago will always be home—a place where he’s not just building wealth, but also a legacy.

Carmen Rossi's journey from the small town of Frankfort to becoming a notable figure in Chicago's hospitality and entrepreneurial landscape is a tale of passion, resilience, and community spirit. As Nick DeGregorio sat down with Carmen, it became evident that Carmen's success isn't just measured by his business ventures but also by his commitment to giving back to the community.

Born and raised in Frankfort, Illinois, Carmen reminisced about his upbringing in a town where community and involvement were key. His father's role as mayor instilled in him a sense of public service and civic duty. Carmen's high school years were marked by an active participation in various activities, which he credits as foundational in shaping his entrepreneurial spirit.

Carmen’s time at the University of Illinois was a pivotal period where he began experimenting with business ideas. From dormitory loft businesses to a spring break travel service, his college days were filled with ventures that not only honed his business acumen but also taught him the invaluable lesson of failure. "Experiencing failure early on gave me the courage to take on bigger risks later," Carmen shared, emphasizing the importance of resilience.

One of the key themes Carmen discussed was the concept of humility and asking for help. "Humility is a special quality, but it's not one you should hide," he advised. This openness to learning from others has been a cornerstone of his approach, allowing him to navigate various industries, including hospitality, law, and even cannabis.

Carmen's current focus, 8 Hospitality, is a testament to his belief in the power of community and culture in business. He attributes the success of his ventures not merely to sound business strategies but to the people who make up his teams. "It's the people that make the business," he said. Carmen’s leadership style is inclusive and empowering, fostering an environment where talent can thrive. He looks for individuals who not only fit the job description but also bring a unique energy and perspective to the team.

A significant part of Carmen's ethos is giving back to the community. Whether it's through providing jobs, supporting local organizations, or mentoring young professionals, he sees it as a duty to contribute positively to the city that has given him so much. "Chicago has given me everything. I owe everything to this city," he declared with palpable pride.

Carmen's story is not just one of business success but also of personal growth. He reflected on the impact of losing his mother, a pivotal figure in his life, and how it shaped his outlook. "Losing my mom was like losing my biggest supporter," he confessed. This loss, however, only deepened his resolve to live a life that honors the values she instilled in him: positivity, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of growth.

As the conversation wrapped up, Carmen offered advice to those facing challenges, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the positive and learning from every experience. "Wear your mistakes," he advised. "By fundamentally understanding them, you learn and grow."

In a city often portrayed negatively in the media, Carmen Rossi stands out as a beacon of positivity and resilience. His story serves as an inspiration, not just for budding entrepreneurs but for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their community. Whether he's managing one of his restaurants or mentoring the next generation of leaders, Carmen's focus remains clear: build, grow, and give back.

In a recent episode of "The Chicagoan," host Nick DeGregorio delved into an inspiring conversation with Tania Leanos, a multi-talented individual balancing careers in finance and fashion. Born and raised in Chicago, Tania's journey from a criminology major to a financial professional and model showcases her resilience and determination.

Tania shared her background, growing up in Berwyn, Illinois, and attending UIC with aspirations of law school. However, her path shifted as she joined her family's finance firm. Despite the initial uncertainty, she embraced her new role, demonstrating the power of adaptability. “I thought I’d be going to law school, but I couldn’t see myself doing that for the rest of my life,” Tania explained.

The discussion illuminated how Tania balances an office job with fashion gigs, revealing a unique blend of professional worlds. “It's a really good balance going from an office setting to Miami Swim Week and back,” Tania said, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in her career.

A key figure in Tania’s life is her sister, who played a pivotal role in introducing her to the fashion industry. Watching her sister's modeling career inspired Tania to pursue similar opportunities. “She started her own clothing line, and I’ve been helping her with that. Having a role model like her made me want to do it too,” Tania shared, underscoring the significance of family support.

The conversation also touched on Tania's personal growth through challenging times, including her parents' divorce. This experience, though difficult, shaped her resilience and drive. “Seeing my mom take care of three kids on her own was a challenge, but it pushed her to start our family finance firm. It showed me that we could get far just following her lead,” Tania reflected.

She encouraged listeners to believe in themselves and take action despite fears. “I used to think I wasn’t tall enough or thin enough. But you just have to go for it, work hard, and not care about what others think,” Tania advised, highlighting the importance of self-belief and perseverance.

Fitness also plays a crucial role in Tania’s life, helping her manage stress and maintain balance. She revealed how cardio routines, like her "hot girl walks" with her sister and dog, provide a mental escape. “It makes me feel so much better and helps me find peace of mind,” she said, emphasizing the therapeutic benefits of staying active.

Looking ahead, Tania is excited about her future projects, including planning an innovative fashion show with her sister. She also dreams of starting her own brand and balancing her professional achievements with personal aspirations. “In a few years, I hope to be a mom, a wife, and continue growing our businesses,” Tania envisioned, showing her commitment to both career and family.

Nick's interview with Tania Leanos offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone striving to balance multiple passions and overcome obstacles. Through their conversation, Tania's story of hard work, family support, and self-belief shines as a testament to achieving success on one's terms.

Jennie Raymer, host of The Chicagoan podcast, recently sat down with Julie Giese, the president of NASCAR Chicago, to discuss the upcoming NASCAR race and its significance for the city. This event marks a pivotal moment for both NASCAR and Chicago, especially considering last year's successful debut.

Julie, a seasoned professional with 24 years in NASCAR, shared her journey from growing up on a dairy farm to becoming a pivotal figure in the racing industry. Her story is one of perseverance and passion, qualities that have driven her career. "If you have a passion for something, don't give up on it," Julie advised, emphasizing the importance of resilience and authenticity.

Last year, NASCAR's first-ever street race in Chicago drew significant attention. With 85% of attendees experiencing their first NASCAR race, the event was more than just a race; it was a celebration of the city's vibrancy and potential. Despite less-than-ideal weather, the enthusiasm and turnout highlighted Chicago's appeal and the sport's broadening reach.

The collaboration with local schools, such as Chicago Public Schools and Columbia College, has created educational and engagement opportunities. Julie shared, "Our youth created a 200-foot mural, and this year, they designed the banners in Butler Field. It's representative of Chicago and NASCAR coming together."

The race not only attracts tourism but also supports local businesses. Julie noted, "Working closely with Choose Chicago and the Sports Commission, we aim to drive tourism and showcase the city's beauty." The 2023 race, scheduled for July 6th and 7th, promises to build on this foundation, further embedding NASCAR into the city's cultural fabric.

Julie recounted the story of TFOCB Member Jamie Elder, a South Loop resident and first-time NASCAR attendee, who was initially skeptical but left with a newfound appreciation for the sport. His experience epitomizes NASCAR's goal to reach new audiences and create lasting impressions. "Seeing our longtime race fans come together with new ones in downtown Chicago was special," Julie remarked.

For fans attending this year, Julie recommended utilizing scanners or the NASCAR mobile app to listen in on drivers' communications, enhancing the immersive experience. "It's like getting inside the helmet," she said, underscoring how this feature offers a unique perspective on the race.

The inclusion of Chicago's own Buddy Guy and a house music showcase adds local flavor to the event, making it a true celebration of the city. Julie concluded with a piece of advice: "Listen and be authentic. Whatever you're doing, ensure it has authenticity to it." Her words resonate not only with aspiring professionals but also with anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their community.

This episode with Julie Giese is a testament to how sports, community, and passion can come together to create something extraordinary. As the city gears up for another thrilling race weekend, it's clear that NASCAR is more than just a sport—it's a bridge that connects and uplifts communities.