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 5 – Haji Healing Salon in Chatham, a Yoga Studio and Wellness Center
Aya-Nikole describes doing business in Chicago as "vibrant and expansive." She once taught yoga in sunny California. What lured her back...
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Episode 7 – Chicago Primal Gym in Lakeview, a Gym
Sean and Grant describe doing business in Chicago as "a dream come true". They began their business from Sean's backyard and...
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Episode 8 – Shop the Thrifty Fashionista, a Mobile Business, Fashion Resale Truck
Jera and Joslyn describe doing business in Chicago as "interesting". This mother-daughter duo decided to open a mobile thrift boutique. What...
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Episode 9 – Urban Roots Inc. of Bronzeville, a Lawn Care Company
Jimmie and Tiffany describe doing business in Chicago as "full of opportunity". As minority owners of a landscaping business, what do...
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
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?
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
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?
Podcast: Play in new window | Download