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 1 – MOOvers in Jefferson Park, a Moving Company
Cezar describes doing business in Chicago as "insane". He wants to grow his moving business. What's standing in his way?
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Episode 2 – Jimmy’s Vegan of Auburn Gresham, a Food Producer
Jimmy describes doing business in Chicago as "hard but fair". His initial business model was inspired by a famous Black Institution...
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Episode 3 – Middle Brow Beer Co. in Logan Square, a Brewery and Brewpub
Pete describes doing business in Chicago as "optimistic". He followed a Brew Pub model, but how did outsourcing the production of...
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Episode 4 – Upton’s Naturals in Austin, a Food Producer
Nicole and Dan describe doing business in Chicago as "resourceful". They saved thousands when bringing their food space up to code....
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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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