Wellness

Episode 32 – Dinobi Detergent, a family-owned manufacturer in Chicago

February 4, 2020 howsbusiness American Dream, Licensing, Retail, Self-funded Business, Sustainability, Wellness 00:14:43 Comments Off on Episode 32 – Dinobi Detergent, a family-owned manufacturer in Chicago

Sylvia and Augie’s business grew out of a personal need for an effective laundry detergent that wouldn’t irritate their family’s sensitive skin. From diaper rash to eczema to sweaty workout clothes, Sylvia couldn’t find an “all in one” product that worked for everyone, so she engaged an organic chemist to create one. Dinobi Detergent is designed to be an affordable, plant-based laundry detergent that is powerful in the wash, yet gentle on skin and the environment. From changing consumers’ buying habits, to navigating the city’s contract and procurement process, to keeping their product in stock for wholesalers, doing business isn’t always easy. What is the vision for Dinobi over the next five years?

Episode 31 – Forty Acres Fresh Market, a Pop-Up Grocer

January 28, 2020 howsbusiness Food Business, Health Inspection, Licensing, My first trip to City Hall, Permitting, Retail, Self-funded Business, Uncategorized, Wellness 00:17:12 Comments Off on Episode 31 – Forty Acres Fresh Market, a Pop-Up Grocer

Liz says doing business in Chicago is “uncertain” because she’s trying something a little outside of the box in the grocery market. Forty Acres Fresh Market is a pop up grocer specializing in selling high quality fresh produce at an everyday low price. Founded in response to the dearth of fresh food options on Chicago’s West Side, Liz is doubling down on community partnerships, grants, and building credibility in her neighborhood.Can this business model thrive in the long term?

Episode 23 – Revolutionary Care, a traveling Message Therapist

November 19, 2019 howsbusiness Illinois State Regulation, Licensing, Mobile Business, Self-funded Business, Social Enterprise, Wellness, Zoning 00:14:39 0 Comments

Rezna describes doing business in Chicago as “determination”. She’s determined to help Chicagoans understand their power to heal themselves. But how does she do it?

Episode 20 – Moon Meals of Hyde Park, a Food Producer

October 29, 2019 howsbusiness Access to Capital, American Dream, Fees, Food Business, Licensing, My first trip to City Hall, Red Tape, Retail, Self-funded Business, Shared Kitchen, Vegan, Waiting in Line, Wellness, Work-Life Balance 00:09:11 0 Comments

LaForce describes doing business in Chicago as “interesting”. LaForce says you have to be patient when you’re getting all the correct licenses and permits. How much time does he suggest you allot?

Episode 15 – Nature’s Little Recyclers Throughout Chicago, a Composter

September 24, 2019 howsbusiness Illinois State Regulation, Licensing, Permitting, Red Tape, Relocation, Small Business Incubator, Social Enterprise, Sustainability, Wellness, Zoning 00:11:53 0 Comments

Ed and Dale describe doing business in Chicago as “tough”. They have faced skepticism from both their local communities and legislators. What challenges do they face as owners of a composting business in Chicago?

Episode 10 – Tea Squares of Englewood, a Food Manufacturer

August 13, 2019 howsbusiness Fees, Food Business, Growth, Hiring, Licensing, Permitting, Red Tape, Retail, Shared Kitchen, Social Enterprise, Wellness 00:09:34 0 Comments

Jordan describes doing business in Chicago as “aspirational”. He always wanted his business to benefit the local South Side community. What employment strategy has he chosen to further this mission?

Episode 7 – Chicago Primal Gym in Lakeview, a Gym

July 23, 2019 howsbusiness Citations, Fees, Licensing, My first trip to City Hall, Permitting, Red Tape, Relocation, Self-funded Business, Waiting in Line, Wellness, Zoning 00:13:35 0 Comments

Sean and Grant describe doing business in Chicago as “a dream come true”. They began their business from Sean’s backyard and faced a variety of zoning challenges. What advice would they now give to self-employed gym owners?

Episode 5 – Haji Healing Salon in Chatham, a Yoga Studio and Wellness Center

July 9, 2019 howsbusiness Access to Capital, City Programs, GoFundMe, L3C, Relocation, Small Business Incubator, Social Enterprise, Wellness, Work-Life Balance 0:14:00 Comments Off on 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 to Chicago?

Episode 2 – Jimmy’s Vegan of Auburn Gresham, a Food Producer

June 18, 2019 howsbusiness Access to Capital, Licensing, Marketing, Red Tape, Retail, Shared Kitchen, Vegan, Wellness 00:11:36 0 Comments

Jimmy describes doing business in Chicago as “hard but fair”. His initial business model was inspired by a famous Black Institution in Chicago. Which one?