How's Business?
How’s Business? is the product of our listening tour with small businesses throughout the City of Chicago. Through interviews with company founders, How’s Business? documents what’s going well – and what could be going better – for small businesses in Chicago. From licensing to maintaining work/life balance, we get candid with entrepreneurs and capture what it’s really like to do business in The Windy City.
Episode 27 – The Silver Room, Eclectic Retail and Sound System Block Party in Hyde Park
Eric describes doing business in Chicago as "exhilarating." Despite being a natural entrepreneur who loves his city and his community, it...
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Episode 19 – Friendly Wash Throughout Chicago, a Laundromat
Tony describes doing business in Chicago as "great". He worked as a real estate broker before opening a laundromat business. How...
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Episode 20 – Moon Meals of Hyde Park, a Food Producer
LaForce describes doing business in Chicago as "interesting". LaForce says you have to be patient when you're getting all the correct...
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Episode 21 – IntoxiCakes
Kamilah describes doing business in Chicago as a "learning experience". She began by experimenting with boozy cupcakes in her kitchen. What...
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WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
If you are a small business owner in Chicago with a story to tell, we’d love to hear from you! You can reach out here. We especially want to hear about licensing and legal issues that you encounter, so we can continue our research and advocacy to knock down barriers for entrepreneurs. We may even follow up to schedule an interview! However, we understand that it can feel scary to share your business challenges — you’re welcome to submit your story anonymously.
Subscribe Today
How’s Business? releases new episodes featuring Chicago’s small business owners every Tuesday morning at 7 AM through Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Stitcher. If you like what you hear, subscribe and rate the podcast.
Episode 33 – Aeslin Pup Hub, Brick and Mortar for All Your Pet Needs
Leah says she feels “conflicted” about doing business in the city of Chicago. Sometimes the red tape, regulations, and seemingly exorbitant cost of doing business makes it difficult to spend the money where it matters most — her staff. Despite the growing pains, what’s next for the Aeslin pet family?
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UPDATE: Sign Legislation Changes for Chicago Businesses featuring Right Way Signs
Alex describes doing business in Chicago as “frustrating”. He began growing his father’s sign company in Evanston, but relocated to Chicago. What about the Windy City and its workforce drew him there?
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