This episode of the podcast features Theresa VanderMeer, Founder and CEO of Work+Shelter. Theresa represents the true spirit of an entrepreneur, bold and courageous, as well as thoughtful and empathetic. Theresa has created more than a place to buy merch/swag for your company, she has created something that will make a lasting impact on so many lives. In this episode, Theresa shares about true sustainability, as well as how Work+Shelter is helping families gain generational wealth. With an interesting and global story, Theresa will make you feel like a fast friend and mentor. Don't miss this episode, you will be truly inspired by Theresa VanderMeer!

The spirit of Good Trouble Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey’s brand has certainly taken on the vibe of its amazing founder, Dee Robinson, who is this weeks guest. Imparting the spirit of her mom, Dee knew that Chicago was the right place to start and build her company, and continues to call the city her home. Dee also sees the entrepreneurial spirit of the city, and how the diversity and culture of the Midwest has impacted its ability to lead the way in areas like innovation and business growth. Because of her willingness to try, her courage to learn through failure, and her passion to keep going, Good Trouble is a brand that is creating award winning Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, but also inspiring other brands to go out and try, creating good trouble. You will certainly connect with Dee’s spirit and we believe you will be inspired to try in your own life!

Season 8 continues with our guests Jarryd Loyd from Loyd & Co, and returning guest Walter Mendenhall of the Male Mogul Initiative. This is part 1 of our 2 part episode with these gentlemen, who share about what they know about Chicago, its neighborhood, and its needs. Jarryd Loyd has partnered with his sister, WNBA standout Jewell Loyd, to provide opportunities for youth in Chicago to learn more about the opportunities the world has for them and to provide access to resources. Jarryd and Walter share about the role mentorship plays and why they continue to do the work in the trenches for a better future. They also share about the importance of being a part of a team and how the life lessons they learned are still impacting them today. Be sure to come back for part 2 next week!

We are kicking off Season Eight of the podcast featuring Kelly Fair, a Chicago Native, and Cecilia Cuff, a Philadelphia born Chicago transplant who has been shaped in her adult life by our city. These true ladies are truly community leaders and builders who are investing in Chicago neighborhoods. In part one of this two part episode, Kelly and Cecilia talk about Chicago, what makes it unique, and how the difficulties of that sometimes effects it. Their passion for the people of the city, mentorship, and healing is obvious, and pairing that with the fact that these are two women who are not okay sitting on the sidelines, means that Kelly and Cecilia are doing some big things in Chicago, especially on the south and west sides. Be sure to come back and listen to part two next week!