Always Andersonville: The Podcast

Episode 145 - The story of 40th Ward Alderperson, Andre Vasquez

This week, David and Gene are joined by Alderperson Andre Vasquez of the 40th Ward. A lifelong Chicagoan, Alderperson Vasquez has worked to connect and include members across the 40th Ward. Before his time as Alderperson, Vasquez worked in a senior management position at a utility company eventually servicing over 145,000 Illinois households. Currently, Alderperson Vasquez is actively engaging within the community increasing sustainability, infrastructure, and justice.

Episode 144 - The Story of 47 Ward Alderman, Matt Martin

This week, Laura and David are joined by the 47th ward Alderman, Matt Martin. Elected in 2019, Alderman Matt Martin has spent his political career improving the 47th Ward community that so many of us call home. Before his time working as an elected official, Alderman Martin tirelessly worked as a civil rights lawyer for the Illinois Attorney General's office, focusing on important issues such as police reform, healthcare, immigration, and workers’ rights. Now, Alderman Martin is leading to build a more prosperous and safe community.

Episode 143 - The story of Bezz Training Club with Jorge Bezera

Today we are joined by Jorge Bezera, owner of Bezz Training Club, the community founded, lakeside gym with one of the best views of the city. Bezz Training is an inclusive and accepting club that focuses on one's health and wellness with the mission to make working out the highlight of one's day. Jorge excels at the art of health management, and his elite approach to fitness will get you in the best shape of your life. You can find Bezz Training Club at 6033 N Sheridan.

Episode 142 - The story of American Eagle Productions with Jessica Texidor

This week, David and Laura are joined by Jessica Texidor, Director of Programs at American Eagle Productions. American Eagle Productions has blazed the trail for youth and educational theatre in the Chicagoland area, bringing the performing arts to over 300 schools and groups a year for the past 28 years. Their programming builds confidence, fosters empathy, and encourages collaboration as well as provides a safe space for children to express themselves. 

Episode 141 - The story of Bridget Gainer

This week, we welcome Bridget Gainer, the Cook County Commissioner of the 10th District. Elected to the board in 2010, Commissioner Gainer has used her leadership role in the non-profit, government and corporate sectors. She has worked tirelessly to create pension reform solutions, was able to institute the Cook County Land Bank and has continued to create new assets for regional workforce development, to name a few.

Episode 140 - The story of the Uptown Business Center with Heather Saenger

This week, Laura is joined by former Andersonville Chamber of Commerce employee and now current manager of the Uptown Business Center, Heather Saenger. The Uptown Business Center is one of eight business centers throughout Chicago. It aims to support new and existing business owners with licensing, permitting, and additional, specialized business assistance in collaboration with BACP, local Chambers, and community partners.

Episode 139 - The story of Downstate Donuts with Virgil Roundtree

This week, David and Laura are joined by Virgil Roundtree, owner of Downstate Donuts. Downstate Donuts has been cranking out life changing donuts since 2018.  Many were shocked after just 4 months on the donut scene they stole the show with first place @donutfest for a "simple" vanilla glazed donut.  It's all about that potato! Chicago restaurant industry pro Virgil, has taken the potato donut to new heights by focusing on fresh, local, and wholesome ingredients. Check out their flavors here, and find them locally at Ándale Market or order for a weekend delivery!

Episode 138 - The story of UnicornLife with Sean Todd

This week, Laura and Joelle are joined by Sean Todd, owner of UnicornLife: The Creative Agency. Unicorn Life offers services related to branding, digital design development + marketing, and print design. Sean is a firm believer that your mind should not be confined to an ideal set by the world around you. If your mind can imagine it, Unicorn Life can achieve it! 

Episode 137- The story of WasteNot Compost with Liam Donnelly

This week, David and Laura are joined by owner of WasteNot Compost, Liam Donnelly.  WasteNot Compost, Chicago’s first and only zero-emission compost collection, was born in 2015. WasteNot Compost currently serves homes and all business types ranging from schools, cafes, bakeries, to farmers markets, and everything in between. They take the work out of composting for you so it can not only be easy to do so in an urban setting, but is a clean experience with all tools provided every pickup.

Episode 136 - The story of Jamie Kelter Davis

This week, Laura and Joelle are joined by our 2021-22 Neighborhood Guide photographer, Jamie Kelter Davis. Jamie is a local photographer, storyteller and traveler based in Logan Square who shoots compelling visual narratives with subjects ranging from: women in farming, organic agriculture, projects about the American Midwest, art activism, women fighting for social justice using art, aging in rural areas, and now, the small business community of Andersonville!