https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sip-with-me--4847600enEntrepreneurshipCopyright Ioanna Kekatoshttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/28ff4dfaa3a7441dc8d6495026d79ffd.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sip-with-me--4847600Mon, 22 Jun 2026 13:24:29 +0000Ioanna KekatosIoanna Kekatosfeeds@spreaker.comA weekly podcast that’s mixed, shaken and stirred to perfection. We interview small businesses and content creators who share their inspiring stories!falseepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/100-years-of-route-66-and-summer-travel-with-heritage-corridor-destinations--72632903We sat down with our friends at Heritage Corridor Destinations to discover all the area has to offer, including great road trip ideas, summer fun, and of course, food for Aaron and antiquing for Ioanna!
Discover the history of Route 66 and how the I&M Canal shaped so much of the development in and around Chicago.
Plus, we talk about why towns in the corridor offer so much charm and hear all about some amazing food, beer, and shopping options!
We end with rapid fire, during which we discover their favorite season in the corridor and what kind of day trip they would plan for us!
PLAN A TRIP: https://www.hcdestinations.com/
ROUTE 66: https://www.hcdestinations.com/route-66
DINING: https://www.hcdestinations.com/Canal-Food-and-Drink
SHOPPING: https://www.hcdestinations.com/Canal-Shop
VISITORS GUIDE: https://www.hcdestinations.com/Request-Info]]>b81f932d-c715-46f7-b6d4-6ba14e62362fMon, 22 Jun 2026 11:20:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosRight in Chicago’s backyard is a corridor of history, beauty, and endless local charm. Home to the first 100 miles of Route 66, the I&M Canal, and the famous Starved Rock, Heritage Corridor spans multiple counties going south and west of the city....We sat down with our friends at Heritage Corridor Destinations to discover all the area has to offer, including great road trip ideas, summer fun, and of course, food for Aaron and antiquing for Ioanna!
Discover the history of Route 66 and how the I&M Canal shaped so much of the development in and around Chicago.
Plus, we talk about why towns in the corridor offer so much charm and hear all about some amazing food, beer, and shopping options!
We end with rapid fire, during which we discover their favorite season in the corridor and what kind of day trip they would plan for us!
PLAN A TRIP: https://www.hcdestinations.com/
ROUTE 66: https://www.hcdestinations.com/route-66
DINING: https://www.hcdestinations.com/Canal-Food-and-Drink
SHOPPING: https://www.hcdestinations.com/Canal-Shop
VISITORS GUIDE: https://www.hcdestinations.com/Request-Info]]>1974falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/brokeback-mountain-at-chicago-shakespeare-theater--72206825In our 2nd interview at the iconic institution, we talk their season-ending stunner, Brokeback Mountain.
Directed by Jonathan Butterell and starring Harrison Ball (former principal dancer at the New York City Ballet) as Ennis Del Mar and Jack Cameron Kay (Netflix’s Boots, Club Kid) as Jack Twist, the show features a live Country Western band on stage and emotional connection you’ll feel from your seat.
Harrison & Jack tell us about the show and what fans of the story can expect from this production. Discover why this show, that many know in book or movie form, works so well on stage.
We hear about how they connect with their characters and why the story resonates with them personally.
With fascinating backgrounds that include world-class ballet Julliard, and Netflix, we hear how they both incorporate training from other disciplines into their stage performance.
We end with rapid fire, learning their dressing room must-haves, favorite scene, and pre-show rituals!
Show runs through June 28! Tickets below.
TICKETS: https://www.chicagoshakes.com/productions/2526-brokeback-mountain/
CST SEASON 40 PREVIEW: https://www.chicagoshakes.com/current-season/
HARRISON BALL: @_harrisonball_
JACK CAMERON KAY: @jackcameronkay]]>63df0301-9929-4944-b2b1-75d755ea7aa3Thu, 28 May 2026 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWe wish we knew how to quit you, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre! In our 2nd interview at the iconic institution, we talk their season-ending stunner, Brokeback Mountain. Directed by Jonathan Butterell and starring Harrison Ball (former principal dancer...In our 2nd interview at the iconic institution, we talk their season-ending stunner, Brokeback Mountain.
Directed by Jonathan Butterell and starring Harrison Ball (former principal dancer at the New York City Ballet) as Ennis Del Mar and Jack Cameron Kay (Netflix’s Boots, Club Kid) as Jack Twist, the show features a live Country Western band on stage and emotional connection you’ll feel from your seat.
Harrison & Jack tell us about the show and what fans of the story can expect from this production. Discover why this show, that many know in book or movie form, works so well on stage.
We hear about how they connect with their characters and why the story resonates with them personally.
With fascinating backgrounds that include world-class ballet Julliard, and Netflix, we hear how they both incorporate training from other disciplines into their stage performance.
We end with rapid fire, learning their dressing room must-haves, favorite scene, and pre-show rituals!
Show runs through June 28! Tickets below.
TICKETS: https://www.chicagoshakes.com/productions/2526-brokeback-mountain/
CST SEASON 40 PREVIEW: https://www.chicagoshakes.com/current-season/
HARRISON BALL: @_harrisonball_
JACK CAMERON KAY: @jackcameronkay]]>2005falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/vintage-frills--72082986We sat down in-store with Owner/Operator, Jennifer Kelly, to hear her founding story, which includes a pink school bus and a lot of estate sales!
Hear about why she color-coordinates, how she sources pieces, and what’s trending this year.
She gives estate sale tips, talks how to tell what’s quality, and shares her dream of doing a Lollapalooza Pop-up!
We end with a round of rapid fire, learning one of her most memorable finds and one piece she’s always on the hunt for!
VISIT: 2846 N Milwaukee
SHOP ONLINE: https://www.vintagefrillschicago.com/
INSTAGRAM: @vintagefrills]]>232bf51e-6a74-40fa-921d-2fd85f8e4d18Wed, 20 May 2026 11:05:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosVintage is the vibe these days, and this Chicago business owner does it with a pop of color! Welcome to Vintage Frills, the color-coordinated vintage store that’s got treasures galore! We sat down in-store with Owner/Operator, Jennifer Kelly, to hear...We sat down in-store with Owner/Operator, Jennifer Kelly, to hear her founding story, which includes a pink school bus and a lot of estate sales!
Hear about why she color-coordinates, how she sources pieces, and what’s trending this year.
She gives estate sale tips, talks how to tell what’s quality, and shares her dream of doing a Lollapalooza Pop-up!
We end with a round of rapid fire, learning one of her most memorable finds and one piece she’s always on the hunt for!
VISIT: 2846 N Milwaukee
SHOP ONLINE: https://www.vintagefrillschicago.com/
INSTAGRAM: @vintagefrills]]>2121falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/schmackary-s--71975125We sat down with Founder & Owner, Zachary Schmahl, to hear how he transformed his cookie empire from a small side-hustle in his tiny Manhattan apartment to a bi-coastal business with a cult following.
Hear about how he develops new flavors and decide what gets featured when he changes the menu every two weeks.
Plus, he shares what’s trending the world of cookies and discusses why complex flavors are on the rise.
We end with fresh baked rapid fire, learning Zackary’s favorite mix-in, a cookie flavored he developed that didn’t slap, and he describes our podcast as a cookie!
You can visit Schmackary’s for cookies, bars, ice cream, coffee, and more at the locations below!
SHIP NATIONWIDE: https://www.schmackarys.com/nationwide-ordering
LOCATIONS: https://www.schmackarys.com/locations
MENU: https://www.schmackarys.com/flavors
INSTAGRAM: @schmackarys]]>afad46d7-aa18-45f8-b91a-2942cd4627b9Tue, 12 May 2026 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosSchmack dab in the middle of the big apple is New York’s hottest cookie shop, Schmackary’s! Known for having over 100 fun flavors and the cutest blue & white façade, this treat shop is anything but simple sugar. We sat down with Founder &...We sat down with Founder & Owner, Zachary Schmahl, to hear how he transformed his cookie empire from a small side-hustle in his tiny Manhattan apartment to a bi-coastal business with a cult following.
Hear about how he develops new flavors and decide what gets featured when he changes the menu every two weeks.
Plus, he shares what’s trending the world of cookies and discusses why complex flavors are on the rise.
We end with fresh baked rapid fire, learning Zackary’s favorite mix-in, a cookie flavored he developed that didn’t slap, and he describes our podcast as a cookie!
You can visit Schmackary’s for cookies, bars, ice cream, coffee, and more at the locations below!
SHIP NATIONWIDE: https://www.schmackarys.com/nationwide-ordering
LOCATIONS: https://www.schmackarys.com/locations
MENU: https://www.schmackarys.com/flavors
INSTAGRAM: @schmackarys]]>1909falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/souvlaki-gr--71672015Since Ioanna is from a Greek island, and also lived on the island of Manhattan, and Aaron married a New Yorker, we have high standards when it comes to our Greek food! This is the spot that never disappoints and will transport you out of the concrete jungle and into a Greek oasis.
We sat down with first-generation Greek-American Co-Owner, Tina Plagos, to hear the incredible founding story of her NYC restaurant. Learn about their iconic blue doors and what makes their pita special!
Hear how they created the “Souvlaki Pitza” and why they still get they get their meat from the butcher every single day.
Tina shares what loyal customers can expect ahead for the restaurant & menu- they are at 3 NYC locations, a location in Florida’s Boynton Beach, and one in Panama City! Combined with their food trucks, there’s Greek food for everyone! We also pitch her on opening in Chicago!
We end with rapid fire, during which Tina shares one of her favorite menu items, cool people she’s met dining, and what kind of Greek wine she likes!
MENU & RESERVATIONS: https://www.souvlakigr.com/]]>e408bfb7-b1f6-4ade-b634-6578856cb34eMon, 27 Apr 2026 11:30:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIf Disney World’s Epcot had a Greek pavilion, this would be it 🇬🇷 Since Ioanna is from a Greek island, and also lived on the island of Manhattan, and Aaron married a New Yorker, we have high standards when it comes to our Greek food! This is the spot...Since Ioanna is from a Greek island, and also lived on the island of Manhattan, and Aaron married a New Yorker, we have high standards when it comes to our Greek food! This is the spot that never disappoints and will transport you out of the concrete jungle and into a Greek oasis.
We sat down with first-generation Greek-American Co-Owner, Tina Plagos, to hear the incredible founding story of her NYC restaurant. Learn about their iconic blue doors and what makes their pita special!
Hear how they created the “Souvlaki Pitza” and why they still get they get their meat from the butcher every single day.
Tina shares what loyal customers can expect ahead for the restaurant & menu- they are at 3 NYC locations, a location in Florida’s Boynton Beach, and one in Panama City! Combined with their food trucks, there’s Greek food for everyone! We also pitch her on opening in Chicago!
We end with rapid fire, during which Tina shares one of her favorite menu items, cool people she’s met dining, and what kind of Greek wine she likes!
MENU & RESERVATIONS: https://www.souvlakigr.com/]]>1430falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/years-beer--70898340Meet Dan Abel, Co-Founder/CEO of Pilot Project Brewing & Years. We chat about how the NA beer was developed and what you can expect from their Original Pilsner, Classic Pale Ale, and Belgian Wit. There’s literally nothing missing from the taste, texture, and feel of these cold pours.
Hear about their proprietary  maltose-negative yeast and why their brew process is different from the rest. Plus, the story of how John Mulaney came into the fold!
We also chat NA beer trends and what Dan is excited about for the year ahead (literally).
We end with rapid fire, learning Dan’s favorite beer snack and one person he’d love to have a Years Beer with!

SHOP: https://yearsbeer.com/
BREWING PROCESS: https://yearsbeer.com/pages/our-process
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/yearsbeer/]]>805dcf0d-0eee-4e5b-8ae9-79989e6cdc10Thu, 26 Mar 2026 13:36:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosBeer lovers have spent too many years without a worthy non-alcoholic option. Introducing Years, the revolutionary NA beer approved by Comedian & Years Co-Owner, John Mulaney! Meet Dan Abel, Co-Founder/CEO of Pilot Project Brewing & Years. We...Meet Dan Abel, Co-Founder/CEO of Pilot Project Brewing & Years. We chat about how the NA beer was developed and what you can expect from their Original Pilsner, Classic Pale Ale, and Belgian Wit. There’s literally nothing missing from the taste, texture, and feel of these cold pours.
Hear about their proprietary  maltose-negative yeast and why their brew process is different from the rest. Plus, the story of how John Mulaney came into the fold!
We also chat NA beer trends and what Dan is excited about for the year ahead (literally).
We end with rapid fire, learning Dan’s favorite beer snack and one person he’d love to have a Years Beer with!

SHOP: https://yearsbeer.com/
BREWING PROCESS: https://yearsbeer.com/pages/our-process
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/yearsbeer/]]>2102falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/velvet-taco--70658013Take a bite into this episode with CEO, Chris Schultz, whom fans of our foodie episodes may remember from our Voodoo Doughnut feature in 2024! He’s back in Chicago, opening Velvet Taco’s 57th store, right here in Wicker Park! The first 57 people in line on March 25th at the new store will get FREE TACOS FOR A MONTH!
Chris tells us how this unique taco concept came to be and what’s behind the Velvet name.He walks us through the menu, highlighting popular items and their WTF Tacos (Weekly Taco Feature) which includes some of their most fun flavors!
Hear about their expansion plans and a why they landed on Wicker for the newest opening!
We end with rapid fire, asking Chris what flavor is trending, what he likes to drink with a taco, and he even describes us as a taco!
Wicker Park opens March 25th at 1482 N Milwaukee Ave.
ORDER/LOCATIONS: https://www.velvettaco.com/locations/
MENU: https://www.velvettaco.com/menu/
LOYALTY: https://www.velvettaco.com/the-velvet-room/]]>5419f3ba-25b4-4d7e-8329-beaee07af5d2Mon, 16 Mar 2026 11:25:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosLet’s tacoBout the tacos that everybody is talking about! Fans love them for their globally-influenced fusions and we love them for their incredibly  delicious flavors, such as Bacon Smashburger, Korean Fried Rice, and Chicken Tikka! Take a bite into...Take a bite into this episode with CEO, Chris Schultz, whom fans of our foodie episodes may remember from our Voodoo Doughnut feature in 2024! He’s back in Chicago, opening Velvet Taco’s 57th store, right here in Wicker Park! The first 57 people in line on March 25th at the new store will get FREE TACOS FOR A MONTH!
Chris tells us how this unique taco concept came to be and what’s behind the Velvet name.He walks us through the menu, highlighting popular items and their WTF Tacos (Weekly Taco Feature) which includes some of their most fun flavors!
Hear about their expansion plans and a why they landed on Wicker for the newest opening!
We end with rapid fire, asking Chris what flavor is trending, what he likes to drink with a taco, and he even describes us as a taco!
Wicker Park opens March 25th at 1482 N Milwaukee Ave.
ORDER/LOCATIONS: https://www.velvettaco.com/locations/
MENU: https://www.velvettaco.com/menu/
LOYALTY: https://www.velvettaco.com/the-velvet-room/]]>1341falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sip-with-me-awards-celebrating-200-episodes--705362260863e6ee-8831-4158-b0af-c17cf973a5f2Sun, 08 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWelcome to the Sip with Me Awards! In honor of our 200th episode, we are celebrating some of our favorite guests, businesses, and brands! Listen to find out our best behind-the-scenes story, who is most likely to become an A-List celebrity, and what...1541falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/america-250-yellowstone-national-park-with-superintendent-cam-sholly--69741331For its millions of annual visitors, Yellowstone National Park is a place of unity, beauty, and connection to mother nature, unrivaled by anything in the world. As our guest said, “it’s truly wild”.
We sat down with Cam Sholly, Superintendent of Yellowstone, to talk about the importance of our National Park System. He shares some of the public benefits provided beyond their stunning views and majestic landscapes.
Cam talks about his role in overseeing the country’s most popular national park and how his teams handle crowded summers, cold winters, and everything in between.
We discuss the science and research that takes place in the park, including the study of a volcano that lies miles beneath much of the park!
Cam also talks about the Park’s famous wildlife, including their famous bison, wolves, and bears.
We end with a round of rapid fire, learning cam‘s favorite spot in the park, his favorite season, and some of the cool people he has met!
VISIT: https://www.nps.gov/yell/
PARK PASS: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm
ABOUT CAM: https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/management/bios.htm
WILDLIFE: https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/nature/wildlife.htm
JOBS: https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/workwithus.htm]]>2682fd40-4623-401c-9b73-7f492d6da966Mon, 02 Feb 2026 14:06:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosAmerica is turning 250, and in America’s first national park, there’s so much to be proud of! Dreams can come true in this park, including Aaron getting engaged on the roof of a historic landmark (full story in the episode)! For its millions of annual...For its millions of annual visitors, Yellowstone National Park is a place of unity, beauty, and connection to mother nature, unrivaled by anything in the world. As our guest said, “it’s truly wild”.
We sat down with Cam Sholly, Superintendent of Yellowstone, to talk about the importance of our National Park System. He shares some of the public benefits provided beyond their stunning views and majestic landscapes.
Cam talks about his role in overseeing the country’s most popular national park and how his teams handle crowded summers, cold winters, and everything in between.
We discuss the science and research that takes place in the park, including the study of a volcano that lies miles beneath much of the park!
Cam also talks about the Park’s famous wildlife, including their famous bison, wolves, and bears.
We end with a round of rapid fire, learning cam‘s favorite spot in the park, his favorite season, and some of the cool people he has met!
VISIT: https://www.nps.gov/yell/
PARK PASS: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm
ABOUT CAM: https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/management/bios.htm
WILDLIFE: https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/nature/wildlife.htm
JOBS: https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/workwithus.htm]]>2475falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chicago-literary-salon--69531246We sat down for our own conversation with Ashley about her background and where the idea for a regular author series came from. She shares some of the fascinating stories authors have shared and what you can expect if you attend an event.
Ashley shares who is on her 2026 lineup and explains why the popularity of her author talks extends beyond the books to the conversations and connections made during the evening.
To check out all of the upcoming dates and authors, visit the link below!
TICKETS: https://www.hastybooklist.com/the-chicago-literary-salon
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/chicagoliterarysalon/]]>5dd72de4-aea2-421a-bf38-b2795eccbd18Wed, 21 Jan 2026 12:01:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThe Chicago Literary Salon is an upscale, ticketed author event series where book lovers gather for cocktails & conversation with writers at the heart of today’s literary scene. Created by Ashley Hasty, the innovative concept has grown a loyal...We sat down for our own conversation with Ashley about her background and where the idea for a regular author series came from. She shares some of the fascinating stories authors have shared and what you can expect if you attend an event.
Ashley shares who is on her 2026 lineup and explains why the popularity of her author talks extends beyond the books to the conversations and connections made during the evening.
To check out all of the upcoming dates and authors, visit the link below!
TICKETS: https://www.hastybooklist.com/the-chicago-literary-salon
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/chicagoliterarysalon/]]>1602falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/aura-candle--69400956Founded in 2020 by Tom and Linda Pendrey, this transformative candle bar has differentiated itself and garnered a loyal following of repeat customers from around the world. Featuring over 100 fragrance options and scent consultants who will teach you the science behind fragrance and fire, you will leave this experience, literally feeling enlightened!
Tom shares their founding story, including how they landed on Chicago and what some of the entrepreneurial milestones have been.
Kristen, who is Tom and Linda‘s daughter, guides us through what a candle making experience is like and how the team of consultants helps you to discover the meaning behind the scents you choose, and how to blend them into the perfect original fragrance!
We end with what’s trending in the world of candles, including sweet scents and their changeover to a new type of wax! Tom also highlights exciting additions to the business, including an e-commerce platform and the ability to customize your own sugar scrub.
BOOK: https://auracandlebar.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/auracandlebar/]]>1d344f10-fb94-42b3-afcf-afc32b32327eMon, 12 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosCreate your 2026 Aura with us at Aura Candle Bar! Founded in 2020 by Tom and Linda Pendrey, this transformative candle bar has differentiated itself and garnered a loyal following of repeat customers from around the world. Featuring over 100 fragrance...Founded in 2020 by Tom and Linda Pendrey, this transformative candle bar has differentiated itself and garnered a loyal following of repeat customers from around the world. Featuring over 100 fragrance options and scent consultants who will teach you the science behind fragrance and fire, you will leave this experience, literally feeling enlightened!
Tom shares their founding story, including how they landed on Chicago and what some of the entrepreneurial milestones have been.
Kristen, who is Tom and Linda‘s daughter, guides us through what a candle making experience is like and how the team of consultants helps you to discover the meaning behind the scents you choose, and how to blend them into the perfect original fragrance!
We end with what’s trending in the world of candles, including sweet scents and their changeover to a new type of wax! Tom also highlights exciting additions to the business, including an e-commerce platform and the ability to customize your own sugar scrub.
BOOK: https://auracandlebar.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/auracandlebar/]]>3266falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/new-year-s-therapy-a-2025-recap-our-2026-predictions--69239886Plus, we both make some bold predictions for 2026- from fashion trends, to politics, to AI, hear our super unfiltered hot takes on what’s ahead for Chicago, America, and the world.
Cheers to a New Year and thanks so much for another amazing year of storytelling!
Episode Outline1:00- 2025 Biggest news story, outfit of the year, and Ioanna’s rare diagnosis
2026 Predictions8:00- Chicago Bears10:30- AI14:30- Remote Work17:45- Clothing20:00- Midterm Elections26:00- Food & Dining]]>7f054d35-f006-450e-a9a3-f0028f51a45dMon, 29 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosJoin us for one last cheers as we recap 2025 and make predictions for 2026! We chat about a year of podcast highlights and are honest about the lows that come with creating media & content. Plus, we both make some bold predictions for 2026- from...Plus, we both make some bold predictions for 2026- from fashion trends, to politics, to AI, hear our super unfiltered hot takes on what’s ahead for Chicago, America, and the world.
Cheers to a New Year and thanks so much for another amazing year of storytelling!
Episode Outline1:00- 2025 Biggest news story, outfit of the year, and Ioanna’s rare diagnosis
2026 Predictions8:00- Chicago Bears10:30- AI14:30- Remote Work17:45- Clothing20:00- Midterm Elections26:00- Food & Dining]]>2084falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tru-tone--69007036In this festive episode, we meet Tru-Tone Christmas Lights, the company bringing back the nostalgic glow and timeless magic of vintage Christmas lights.
Learn how partners David Andora & Sean Hunt created their bulbs to capture that vintage glow so prominently featured in your most nostalgic Christmas movies and memories. A heartfelt founding story inspired by childhood memories and Christmases in Chicago!
Dive into what’s trending in holiday lights and hear some of the science behind Christmas lighting!
We end with a lit round of rapid fire, learning their favorite Christmas light color and the best gift they’ve ever received!
SHOP: https://tru-tone.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/trutonebulbs/
CHICAGO VENDORS
FESTIVE COLLECTIVE​5 N Milwaukee Ave
INSIDE HOME1942 W. Chicago Ave
DISTRICT CHICAGO5430 N Clark St]]>d521e342-cb4e-4d0b-94be-536de9191d41Fri, 12 Dec 2025 12:06:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIt’s Christmas of long ago, your house is covered in fresh snowfall, and the bright, warm glow of your incandescent Christmas lights peaks through to light up the winter cold. In this festive episode, we meet Tru-Tone Christmas Lights, the company...In this festive episode, we meet Tru-Tone Christmas Lights, the company bringing back the nostalgic glow and timeless magic of vintage Christmas lights.
Learn how partners David Andora & Sean Hunt created their bulbs to capture that vintage glow so prominently featured in your most nostalgic Christmas movies and memories. A heartfelt founding story inspired by childhood memories and Christmases in Chicago!
Dive into what’s trending in holiday lights and hear some of the science behind Christmas lighting!
We end with a lit round of rapid fire, learning their favorite Christmas light color and the best gift they’ve ever received!
SHOP: https://tru-tone.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/trutonebulbs/
CHICAGO VENDORS
FESTIVE COLLECTIVE​5 N Milwaukee Ave
INSIDE HOME1942 W. Chicago Ave
DISTRICT CHICAGO5430 N Clark St]]>2444falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/hyatt-lodge-oak-brook-chicago--68898774Michelle tells us about the scenic property, which is surrounded by forest preserve, and has rich historic ties to McDonald’s former headquarters! Hear about the property’s amenities, such as their absolutely insane indoor pool (perf for winter staycations), a full-service spa, and incredible wedding packages (Michelle even likely sold Aaron on scheduling his wedding)!
We also chat about why they are the must-do location for winter and Christmas fun in the suburbs. This year’s fun includes their famous holiday pop-up bar “Prancer’s Pub”, the family-friendly “Deck the Halls” crafting & coco events, and of course - THE SANTA SUITE - a North Pole Suite which included a special surprise from Santa!
Check out the links below to book a stay, explore the property, and plan your own suburban holiday fun!
HOTEL RESERVATIONS: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-hotels/en-US/chilo-hyatt-lodge-oak-brook-chicago
HOLIDAY OFFERINGS: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-hotels/en-US/chilo-hyatt-lodge-oak-brook-chicago/holidays
PRANCER’S PUB MENU: https://www.hyatt.com/content/dam/hotel/propertysites/assets/hyatt/chilo/documents/en_us/dining/hearth-lounge/389115_Prancers_Pub_Menu_Card.pdf
WEDDING INFO: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-hotels/en-US/chilo-hyatt-lodge-oak-brook-chicago/weddings
SPA: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-hotels/en-US/chilo-hyatt-lodge-oak-brook-chicago/spa]]>fb102825-1af5-40a0-a12b-c99275c61c40Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWhat do Santa, Suites, and Serenity all have in common? They’re all at Hyatt Lodge Oak Brook Chicago! We’re staying in their signature “Santa Suite” and chatting the holidays with Michelle Marvin, Director of Sales and Marketing! Michelle tells us...Michelle tells us about the scenic property, which is surrounded by forest preserve, and has rich historic ties to McDonald’s former headquarters! Hear about the property’s amenities, such as their absolutely insane indoor pool (perf for winter staycations), a full-service spa, and incredible wedding packages (Michelle even likely sold Aaron on scheduling his wedding)!
We also chat about why they are the must-do location for winter and Christmas fun in the suburbs. This year’s fun includes their famous holiday pop-up bar “Prancer’s Pub”, the family-friendly “Deck the Halls” crafting & coco events, and of course - THE SANTA SUITE - a North Pole Suite which included a special surprise from Santa!
Check out the links below to book a stay, explore the property, and plan your own suburban holiday fun!
HOTEL RESERVATIONS: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-hotels/en-US/chilo-hyatt-lodge-oak-brook-chicago
HOLIDAY OFFERINGS: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-hotels/en-US/chilo-hyatt-lodge-oak-brook-chicago/holidays
PRANCER’S PUB MENU: https://www.hyatt.com/content/dam/hotel/propertysites/assets/hyatt/chilo/documents/en_us/dining/hearth-lounge/389115_Prancers_Pub_Menu_Card.pdf
WEDDING INFO: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-hotels/en-US/chilo-hyatt-lodge-oak-brook-chicago/weddings
SPA: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-hotels/en-US/chilo-hyatt-lodge-oak-brook-chicago/spa]]>1343falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/transit-tees--68619398Transit Tees takes visuals from Chicago’s metropolitan landscape, iconic brands, and cultural landmarks and turns them into the most epic products, clothing, and decor!
We chat in-store with Tim Gillengerten, Owner and Creative Director, who in 2001, founded the business and is still creating local treasures to this day! We hear the founding story, which includes inspo from Chicago’s “L”. Plus, discover how he and his team of 23 create stunning products, like a map of all our Chicago neighborhoods and a Malört drinking game!
Hear what it’s like to collab with famous brands like Portillo’s and discover the stories behind their most popular products! Tim also shares some great advice for other entrepreneurs and small businesses!
We take the express train to end with rapid fire, learning Tim’s dream collab and his favorite holiday gift ever!
SHOP: https://www.transittees.com/
SOCIAL: http://instagram.com/transittees

Wicker Park1371 N. Milwaukee Ave
Andersonville5226 N. Clark St]]>10103deb-a975-43a2-b726-3ccb879853beTue, 18 Nov 2025 14:16:32 +0000Ioanna KekatosAnd when I’m back in Chicago, I feel it, and I stop at Transit Tees for all my holiday shopping! Transit Tees takes visuals from Chicago’s metropolitan landscape, iconic brands, and cultural landmarks and turns them into the most epic products,...Transit Tees takes visuals from Chicago’s metropolitan landscape, iconic brands, and cultural landmarks and turns them into the most epic products, clothing, and decor!
We chat in-store with Tim Gillengerten, Owner and Creative Director, who in 2001, founded the business and is still creating local treasures to this day! We hear the founding story, which includes inspo from Chicago’s “L”. Plus, discover how he and his team of 23 create stunning products, like a map of all our Chicago neighborhoods and a Malört drinking game!
Hear what it’s like to collab with famous brands like Portillo’s and discover the stories behind their most popular products! Tim also shares some great advice for other entrepreneurs and small businesses!
We take the express train to end with rapid fire, learning Tim’s dream collab and his favorite holiday gift ever!
SHOP: https://www.transittees.com/
SOCIAL: http://instagram.com/transittees

Wicker Park1371 N. Milwaukee Ave
Andersonville5226 N. Clark St]]>1709falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/vosges-haut-chocolat--68522928Know for their truffles, iconic flavor pairings, and absolutely HUGE annual advent calendar, Vosges has been treating Chicago & the world to sumptuous crafted treats for almost three decades!
We dipped into the chocolatey world of wonder with Ash Mishler & Jen Hockey, learning the history of Vosges, what makes their chocolate unique (they have their own proprietary blend cacao, so cool), and we heard about how they land on some of their exotic flavor pairings! From olive oil, to curry, to ginger, they have offered costumers the opportunity to travel the world by chocolate!
They share about their newly released collaboration with The Smashing Pumpkins, which includes chocolate crafted to pair with specific songs for an experiential tasting experience- a “sensory symphony” as they call it! We discuss what it takes to pull off an epic collaboration like this!
To end,we bite into rapid fire, discovering Ash & Jen’s favorite Vosges chocolate of all time and what they didn’t expect when they signed up to work with chocolate!
Gift Vosges now, including their signature “Exotic Truffle” box, The Smashing Pumpkins collab, and their 2025 Advent Calendar now at the links below!
SHOP/GIFT: https://www.vosgeschocolate.com/
ADVENT CALENDAR: https://www.vosgeschocolate.com/products/a-chocolate-calendar-of-advent
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/vosgeshautchocolat/]]>0a526335-5596-423f-b450-33da32dec300Tue, 11 Nov 2025 13:57:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosTucked away in Chicago’s Chocolate Temple is a wonderland of tastes, sights, and indulgent delicacies. Vosges Haut-Chocolat is our sweet treat pick for the 2025 holiday season! Know for their truffles, iconic flavor pairings, and absolutely HUGE...Know for their truffles, iconic flavor pairings, and absolutely HUGE annual advent calendar, Vosges has been treating Chicago & the world to sumptuous crafted treats for almost three decades!
We dipped into the chocolatey world of wonder with Ash Mishler & Jen Hockey, learning the history of Vosges, what makes their chocolate unique (they have their own proprietary blend cacao, so cool), and we heard about how they land on some of their exotic flavor pairings! From olive oil, to curry, to ginger, they have offered costumers the opportunity to travel the world by chocolate!
They share about their newly released collaboration with The Smashing Pumpkins, which includes chocolate crafted to pair with specific songs for an experiential tasting experience- a “sensory symphony” as they call it! We discuss what it takes to pull off an epic collaboration like this!
To end,we bite into rapid fire, discovering Ash & Jen’s favorite Vosges chocolate of all time and what they didn’t expect when they signed up to work with chocolate!
Gift Vosges now, including their signature “Exotic Truffle” box, The Smashing Pumpkins collab, and their 2025 Advent Calendar now at the links below!
SHOP/GIFT: https://www.vosgeschocolate.com/
ADVENT CALENDAR: https://www.vosgeschocolate.com/products/a-chocolate-calendar-of-advent
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/vosgeshautchocolat/]]>1412falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/vienna-beef--68414557We’re joined by Maizy Lind, Marketing Coordinator, who serves up the bunbelievable history of Vienna Beef and the Chicago Style Hot Dog! Hear about its roots to the Chicago World’s Fair and the poppy seeded popularity boom that came from the Maxwell Street Market.
Maizy talks about how their dogs are made, why so many ma & pop joins trust Vienna Beef, and what’s in their catalog of products beyond hot dogs!
We end with “Let’s Be Frank” where Maizy tells us her favorite hot dog topping, how she likes her french fries, and what she most loves about Vienna Beef!
Serve up Vienna Beef this holiday season! Order delicious snackies & treat at the link below!

SHOP & SHIP: https://www.viennabeef.com/
VIENNA LOCATOR: https://www.viennabeef.com/find-vienna-beef/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/viennabeef/
HOT DOG UNIVERSITY: https://www.viennabeef.com/hot-dog-university]]>393da5ce-d023-4a76-8254-8b0c231bc433Tue, 04 Nov 2025 12:49:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWe’ve got a lot to be frankful for this holiday season! And it all starts with our love for Chicago Icon, Vienna Beef! We’re joined by Maizy Lind, Marketing Coordinator, who serves up the bunbelievable history of Vienna Beef and the Chicago Style Hot...We’re joined by Maizy Lind, Marketing Coordinator, who serves up the bunbelievable history of Vienna Beef and the Chicago Style Hot Dog! Hear about its roots to the Chicago World’s Fair and the poppy seeded popularity boom that came from the Maxwell Street Market.
Maizy talks about how their dogs are made, why so many ma & pop joins trust Vienna Beef, and what’s in their catalog of products beyond hot dogs!
We end with “Let’s Be Frank” where Maizy tells us her favorite hot dog topping, how she likes her french fries, and what she most loves about Vienna Beef!
Serve up Vienna Beef this holiday season! Order delicious snackies & treat at the link below!

SHOP & SHIP: https://www.viennabeef.com/
VIENNA LOCATOR: https://www.viennabeef.com/find-vienna-beef/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/viennabeef/
HOT DOG UNIVERSITY: https://www.viennabeef.com/hot-dog-university]]>1864falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/halloween-history-the-stories-behind-reese-s-psl-and-pumpkin-carving--683117921a247430-3553-4169-9c0b-5fb154d22c17Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:17:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosGet ready for a spooky stroll through time! In this episode, we dive into the fascinating history of Halloween! From ancient Celtic roots to modern-day trick-or-treating, we uncover the origins of pumpkins, the story behind Halloween’s iconic...1283falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-brewed--68030545Brew up something scary tasty at this horror-themed coffee shop in Chicago 🧟‍♂️☕️
The Brewed is located in Avondale and features spookily delicious coffee/tea and decor featuring tons of horror movie posters, memorabilia, and frightful vibes!
We meet Co-Owner Jason Deuchler, who tells us the founding story, what they do special for spooky season, and why they went with a horror theme!
Plus, we find out about their Halloween Block Party on October 12th, 11am-8pm! BYOB (Bring Your Own Bones)!
Visit them at 2843 N Milwaukee Ave
MENU/INFO: https://www.thebrewedcoffee.com/
HALLOWEEN BLOCK PARTY: https://www.thebrewedcoffee.com/events/halloween-block-party
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/thebrewed/?hl=en]]>de5ffb7e-a793-4af4-9443-cb01fa89afa2Mon, 06 Oct 2025 11:41:00 +0000Ioanna Kekatos**THIS SCARY EPISODE WAS FILMED LIVE ON LOCATION AND MAY CONTAIN HORRIFYING SOUNDS OF WITCHES BREWING, MONSTERS MUNCHING, AND DEMONS DRINKING** Brew up something scary tasty at this horror-themed coffee shop in Chicago 🧟‍♂️☕️ The Brewed is located in...Brew up something scary tasty at this horror-themed coffee shop in Chicago 🧟‍♂️☕️
The Brewed is located in Avondale and features spookily delicious coffee/tea and decor featuring tons of horror movie posters, memorabilia, and frightful vibes!
We meet Co-Owner Jason Deuchler, who tells us the founding story, what they do special for spooky season, and why they went with a horror theme!
Plus, we find out about their Halloween Block Party on October 12th, 11am-8pm! BYOB (Bring Your Own Bones)!
Visit them at 2843 N Milwaukee Ave
MENU/INFO: https://www.thebrewedcoffee.com/
HALLOWEEN BLOCK PARTY: https://www.thebrewedcoffee.com/events/halloween-block-party
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/thebrewed/?hl=en]]>1046falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/witch-city-wicks--67850196We sit down with Liz Frazier, Founder & Owner of Witch City Wicks, Salem’s spellbinding premier gothic and witchy candle company. From the spark that started her business to the inspiration behind her enchanting scents, Liz shares how she’s built an incredible brand, what inspired some of her scents, and how she handles the busiest time of year in Salem/ Halloween!
Light your favorite candle, settle in, and join us as we chat about entrepreneurship and Salem’s witchy legacy! We end with spooky rapid fire where Liz shares her favorite candle scents, dream collaboration, and more.
SHOP CANDLES: https://www.witchcitywicks.com/
INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/
VISIT: 302A Essex St., Salem MA]]>29ef79fa-006a-4017-a9cd-5c7ec2fece53Mon, 22 Sep 2025 11:07:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis spooky season, we’re casting a glow on all things magical & mystical! We sit down with Liz Frazier, Founder & Owner of Witch City Wicks, Salem’s spellbinding premier gothic and witchy candle company. From the spark that started her...We sit down with Liz Frazier, Founder & Owner of Witch City Wicks, Salem’s spellbinding premier gothic and witchy candle company. From the spark that started her business to the inspiration behind her enchanting scents, Liz shares how she’s built an incredible brand, what inspired some of her scents, and how she handles the busiest time of year in Salem/ Halloween!
Light your favorite candle, settle in, and join us as we chat about entrepreneurship and Salem’s witchy legacy! We end with spooky rapid fire where Liz shares her favorite candle scents, dream collaboration, and more.
SHOP CANDLES: https://www.witchcitywicks.com/
INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/
VISIT: 302A Essex St., Salem MA]]>1702falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/nightly-spirits--67764631We sit down with Katie Stuck, Chicago’s Lead Tour Guide for Nightly Spirits, to uncover the haunted history, ghostly legends, and spirited nightlife woven into the streets of the Windy City. From eerie encounters in historic pubs to bone-chilling tales that lurk behind Chicago’s most iconic landmarks, Katie shares stories even locals don’t know!
Learn about the tour company, which focuses on smaller, intimate group sizes and offers a tour with booze (of course, the one we went on)! In over 20 cities nationwide, you are sure to have a hauntedly good time no matter where you go!
We end this haunting episode with a special round of rapid fire covering everything from the most haunted place in Chicago to Katie’s favorite ghost movie of all time, and MORE!
BOOK A TOUR:  https://nightlyspirits.com/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/nightlyspirits/]]>d28b64f3-70b5-464f-a642-a6d5b9ec7b64Mon, 15 Sep 2025 11:05:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis week’s episode is full of good spirits and ghostly fun! We sit down with Katie Stuck, Chicago’s Lead Tour Guide for Nightly Spirits, to uncover the haunted history, ghostly legends, and spirited nightlife woven into the streets of the Windy City....We sit down with Katie Stuck, Chicago’s Lead Tour Guide for Nightly Spirits, to uncover the haunted history, ghostly legends, and spirited nightlife woven into the streets of the Windy City. From eerie encounters in historic pubs to bone-chilling tales that lurk behind Chicago’s most iconic landmarks, Katie shares stories even locals don’t know!
Learn about the tour company, which focuses on smaller, intimate group sizes and offers a tour with booze (of course, the one we went on)! In over 20 cities nationwide, you are sure to have a hauntedly good time no matter where you go!
We end this haunting episode with a special round of rapid fire covering everything from the most haunted place in Chicago to Katie’s favorite ghost movie of all time, and MORE!
BOOK A TOUR:  https://nightlyspirits.com/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/nightlyspirits/]]>1689falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trey-plutnicki-twihard-a-twighlight-musical-parody--67688776Originating at Chicago’s Otherworld Theatre, the show’s current run takes it to the historic Apollo Theatre, where we sat down with Trey to talk all things Twighlight, fandom, and what audiences can expect when they come for a howling good time.
Known for appearances on Squid Game: The Challenge, Netflix’s Battlecamp, and his many Chicago Theatrical roles, Trey dishes on how he brings parts of himself into the show, including an iconic tap battle, and shares how the show has evolved since it first premiered. As an original cast member, Trey speaks to why the fandom is so strong and how the show perfectly blends actual Twighlight plot with modern comedic relief.
We end with rapid fire, discovering  Trey’s favorite line from the show and that Aaron is neither Team Edward not Jacob, but instead pledges allegiance to Team Trey!
See Twihard now through September 28th at The Apollo Theatre.
TICKETS: https://www.twihardthemusical.com/tour
FOLLOW TREY: https://www.instagram.com/choochootreyn/?hl=en
STREAM THE ALBUM: https://www.twihardthemusical.com/media]]>baf9b4f7-facd-427f-ae25-8a8db62d8d80Tue, 09 Sep 2025 11:14:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWe’ve got something for you to sink your teeth into! In honor of National Twighlighters Day and to kick off our 2025 Spooky Season, we sat down with Trey Plutnicki, one of the leading cast members in TWIHARD! A Twighlight Musical Parody. Originating...Originating at Chicago’s Otherworld Theatre, the show’s current run takes it to the historic Apollo Theatre, where we sat down with Trey to talk all things Twighlight, fandom, and what audiences can expect when they come for a howling good time.
Known for appearances on Squid Game: The Challenge, Netflix’s Battlecamp, and his many Chicago Theatrical roles, Trey dishes on how he brings parts of himself into the show, including an iconic tap battle, and shares how the show has evolved since it first premiered. As an original cast member, Trey speaks to why the fandom is so strong and how the show perfectly blends actual Twighlight plot with modern comedic relief.
We end with rapid fire, discovering  Trey’s favorite line from the show and that Aaron is neither Team Edward not Jacob, but instead pledges allegiance to Team Trey!
See Twihard now through September 28th at The Apollo Theatre.
TICKETS: https://www.twihardthemusical.com/tour
FOLLOW TREY: https://www.instagram.com/choochootreyn/?hl=en
STREAM THE ALBUM: https://www.twihardthemusical.com/media]]>1586falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maple-ash--67616012We sat down at Maple & Ash with Chef + Partner, Danny Grant, and National Beverage Director, Christina DeMoss, to talk all things food and drink!
Danny shares the founding story of the restaurant group and how they found their flame. Christina walks us through her cocktail menu and talks about what’s trending right now, including zero proof!
As a first timer, Aaron is introduced to the menu and their “I DON’T GIVE A F*@K” option. Danny dishes their iconic seafood tower and what’s called “beefed up butter”
Danny and Christina also give us a taste of what’s cooking behind the scenes, including what’s ahead for this culinary icon.
We end with a round of wood flamed rapid fire, learning their go-to order at the restaurant and what they would cook for us if we came in to eat!
Dine at 8 W Maple, Chicago, IL.
RESERVATIONS + INFO: https://www.mapleandash.com/
SOCIAL:https://www.instagram.com/mapleandash/?hl=en






Music I Use: Bensound.com/free-music-for-videosLicense code: GEPYSO2SVDRLELQ2Artist: : Sound EGO]]>819185fe-6386-44d5-a2fd-4840ef5896aeWed, 03 Sep 2025 12:09:42 +0000Ioanna KekatosIT’S A BIG F*@KING PODCAST EPISODE! We sat down at Maple & Ash with Chef + Partner, Danny Grant, and National Beverage Director, Christina DeMoss, to talk all things food and drink! Danny shares the founding story of the restaurant group and how...We sat down at Maple & Ash with Chef + Partner, Danny Grant, and National Beverage Director, Christina DeMoss, to talk all things food and drink!
Danny shares the founding story of the restaurant group and how they found their flame. Christina walks us through her cocktail menu and talks about what’s trending right now, including zero proof!
As a first timer, Aaron is introduced to the menu and their “I DON’T GIVE A F*@K” option. Danny dishes their iconic seafood tower and what’s called “beefed up butter”
Danny and Christina also give us a taste of what’s cooking behind the scenes, including what’s ahead for this culinary icon.
We end with a round of wood flamed rapid fire, learning their go-to order at the restaurant and what they would cook for us if we came in to eat!
Dine at 8 W Maple, Chicago, IL.
RESERVATIONS + INFO: https://www.mapleandash.com/
SOCIAL:https://www.instagram.com/mapleandash/?hl=en






Music I Use: Bensound.com/free-music-for-videosLicense code: GEPYSO2SVDRLELQ2Artist: : Sound EGO]]>2326falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/canopy-by-hilton-chicago-central-loop--67515015We chat with Complex General Manager & Chief Enthusiast, Liz Kraft, about the luxurious property and the fascinating history behind the building. Learn about the hotel’s iconic decor and how they pay homage to the city’s rail history. Discover the seasonal flavors showcased at its 16th floor Mediterranean inspired restaurant, Seville. Plus, Liz shares some of her favorite facts about the Canopy brand at Hilton and what makes a stay here unique.
We end with rapid fire, learning Liz’s favorite spot in the hotel and her favorite drink to get at the hotel bar.
226 W Jackson Blvd.

BOOK A STAY: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/chijbpy-canopy-chicago-central-loop/

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/canopychiloop/]]>69e2d672-1b62-4193-994c-38b0f32fa40cMon, 25 Aug 2025 12:52:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosA canopy of comfort in the hustle & bustle of Chicago’s central loop, Canopy by Hilton is located in the former Chicago and North Western Railway headquarters! This historic building is located next to Willis Tower and is centrally located for all...We chat with Complex General Manager & Chief Enthusiast, Liz Kraft, about the luxurious property and the fascinating history behind the building. Learn about the hotel’s iconic decor and how they pay homage to the city’s rail history. Discover the seasonal flavors showcased at its 16th floor Mediterranean inspired restaurant, Seville. Plus, Liz shares some of her favorite facts about the Canopy brand at Hilton and what makes a stay here unique.
We end with rapid fire, learning Liz’s favorite spot in the hotel and her favorite drink to get at the hotel bar.
226 W Jackson Blvd.

BOOK A STAY: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/chijbpy-canopy-chicago-central-loop/

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/canopychiloop/]]>1771falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/heron-agency-the-state-of-chicago-hospitality-in-2025-lessons-learned-from-the-founder-ceo--67449170Noreen Heron founded the firm in 2000 and has built it into one of the nation’s leading lifestyle communications agencies. We chat about her many PR adventures, including how she came to found her own firm and some of the amazing projects and clients she has had along the way.
We discuss the Chicago market and what trends she sees in local businesses and social media.
We end with PR rapid fire, learning if she has a dream client and who the coolest person she’s ever met is (besides us, of course)!
HERON: https://heronagency.com/

FOLLOW NOREEN: https://www.instagram.com/noreenheron/
Sonny Acres Farmhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sip-with-me/id1522224564?i=1000712259676
Vacations by Railhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sip-with-me/id1522224564?i=1000710876602
Randolph Street Markethttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sip-with-me/id1522224564?i=1000629066714]]>77ab2942-8cb5-433d-84d3-09e2a65a4051Tue, 19 Aug 2025 22:27:13 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn our five years of podcasting, we have worked with dozens of PR agents and firms. Today, we have the unique privilege of chatting with one of those firms, Heron Agency. A list of past episodes with their clients are below! Noreen Heron founded the...Noreen Heron founded the firm in 2000 and has built it into one of the nation’s leading lifestyle communications agencies. We chat about her many PR adventures, including how she came to found her own firm and some of the amazing projects and clients she has had along the way.
We discuss the Chicago market and what trends she sees in local businesses and social media.
We end with PR rapid fire, learning if she has a dream client and who the coolest person she’s ever met is (besides us, of course)!
HERON: https://heronagency.com/

FOLLOW NOREEN: https://www.instagram.com/noreenheron/
Sonny Acres Farmhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sip-with-me/id1522224564?i=1000712259676
Vacations by Railhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sip-with-me/id1522224564?i=1000710876602
Randolph Street Markethttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sip-with-me/id1522224564?i=1000629066714]]>1834falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/local-style-chips--67329820Available in Chicago Hot Dog, Deep Dish, Italian Beef, Hot Giardiniera, and Regular Salted, these kettle style chips will leave you feeling like you just bit into your favorite Chicago classics!
Hear her founding story and discover how she drew inspiration from Japanese flavors on her honeymoon. Learn about how she landed on her flavors and what it takes to craft the complex layers of each dish.
Laura also shares why Chicago is so special when it comes to food and community.
We end with rapid fire, learning which chip goes well with champagne and what Laura’s dream flavor is!
To secure your own chips, use the store locator at the link below or purchase them online!
STORE LOCATOR: https://localstylechips.com/pages/store-locator
ORDER: https://localstylechips.com/collections/potato-chips
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/localstylechips]]>8499ff01-8d7a-438c-80cf-63ffe6b8681eMon, 11 Aug 2025 11:11:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosLaura Gardner channeled true entrepreneurial spirit when she used her corporate layoff to gift the city of Chicago with its most iconic foodie invention in years, Local Style Chips! Available in Chicago Hot Dog, Deep Dish, Italian Beef, Hot...Available in Chicago Hot Dog, Deep Dish, Italian Beef, Hot Giardiniera, and Regular Salted, these kettle style chips will leave you feeling like you just bit into your favorite Chicago classics!
Hear her founding story and discover how she drew inspiration from Japanese flavors on her honeymoon. Learn about how she landed on her flavors and what it takes to craft the complex layers of each dish.
Laura also shares why Chicago is so special when it comes to food and community.
We end with rapid fire, learning which chip goes well with champagne and what Laura’s dream flavor is!
To secure your own chips, use the store locator at the link below or purchase them online!
STORE LOCATOR: https://localstylechips.com/pages/store-locator
ORDER: https://localstylechips.com/collections/potato-chips
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/localstylechips]]>1993falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chicago-shakespeare-theatre--67152928Meet Edward Hall, a literal “Hall” of Famer on the World Theatre Scene. As Artistic Director, Edward helps oversee overall creative direction for the theatre, including a dozen productions this season!
Edward dives into the genius of Shakespeare and shows how the contemporary, new works the theater puts on connect to Shakespearean Classics. Hear how CST innovates to create award winning productions that go on to show around the world.
Edward talks about the 2025-2026 season and what you can expect from their shows this year (from tennis, to horror, to classic Shakespeare, they truly have it all). Plus, he outlines some of his vision for the theatre and touches on what makes Chicago’s theatre scene special.
We end with rapid fire, learning Edward’s dream show to put on and where he loves to go in Chicago!
Book tickets and learn about the 25-26 season at the link below!

BOOK TICKETS: https://www.chicagoshakes.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/chicagoshakes/]]>a278d672-3dd7-453e-ae79-b321f0aa7c9eMon, 28 Jul 2025 12:32:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosP Where art thou Aaron & Ioanna? At Chicago Shakespeare Theatre! Meet Edward Hall, a literal “Hall” of Famer on the World Theatre Scene. As Artistic Director, Edward helps oversee overall creative direction for the theatre, including a dozen...Meet Edward Hall, a literal “Hall” of Famer on the World Theatre Scene. As Artistic Director, Edward helps oversee overall creative direction for the theatre, including a dozen productions this season!
Edward dives into the genius of Shakespeare and shows how the contemporary, new works the theater puts on connect to Shakespearean Classics. Hear how CST innovates to create award winning productions that go on to show around the world.
Edward talks about the 2025-2026 season and what you can expect from their shows this year (from tennis, to horror, to classic Shakespeare, they truly have it all). Plus, he outlines some of his vision for the theatre and touches on what makes Chicago’s theatre scene special.
We end with rapid fire, learning Edward’s dream show to put on and where he loves to go in Chicago!
Book tickets and learn about the 25-26 season at the link below!

BOOK TICKETS: https://www.chicagoshakes.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/chicagoshakes/]]>1725falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/5-years-of-sip-with-me--66874882We give you a behind-the-scenes look at our friendship, spill the tea on some of our podcast drama, and discuss the impact some of the episodes have had on our lives.
As always, thank you for listening and allowing us to share so many stories with you! Cheers to many more.
xoxo,aaron & ioanna]]>a1ea41b9-eaa2-4543-9143-035dee75a10aSun, 06 Jul 2025 11:41:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn this special episode, we celebrate five years of Sip with Me with our 180th episode! We give you a behind-the-scenes look at our friendship, spill the tea on some of our podcast drama, and discuss the impact some of the episodes have had on our...We give you a behind-the-scenes look at our friendship, spill the tea on some of our podcast drama, and discuss the impact some of the episodes have had on our lives.
As always, thank you for listening and allowing us to share so many stories with you! Cheers to many more.
xoxo,aaron & ioanna]]>1974falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/emily-kristen-morris--66805738Emily was the Elphaba standby on the Broadway National Tour of Wicked (what a resume credit) and played Bea in the Broadway National Tour of Something Rotten! In just a few weeks, she will play one of her dream roles in our favorite musical, Jenna in Waitress, in Ithaca, NY (ticket link below)!
We sat down with Emily to chat about her career and the many doors that have opened and closed along the way.
We discussed her voice studio, EKM, which has an entire team dedicated to teaching and coaching the next great voices of tomorrow! She shares what getting a voice lesson is like and what you can expect if you work with a coach.
We end with rapid fire, discovering Emily’s favorite show, her dream role (which we like to think we manifested wink wink), and her dressing room essentials!
Sign up for your own voice lesson at the link below and go see Waitress at the Hangar Theatre July 10-19!

EKM STUDIO: https://www.emilykristenmorris.com/ekm-vocal-studio
WAITRESS: https://hangartheatre.org/event/waitress/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/emilykristenmorris/?hl=en]]>58c33ddf-fc61-4dc9-97df-48a64f02f99eMon, 30 Jun 2025 13:06:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosEmily Kristen Morris defies gravity in all that she does! A Singer, Actress, Content Creator, Vocal Instructor & Founder of EKM Studios, she’s known for her stunning performances on stage and has likely appeared in your social feeds, giving viral...Emily was the Elphaba standby on the Broadway National Tour of Wicked (what a resume credit) and played Bea in the Broadway National Tour of Something Rotten! In just a few weeks, she will play one of her dream roles in our favorite musical, Jenna in Waitress, in Ithaca, NY (ticket link below)!
We sat down with Emily to chat about her career and the many doors that have opened and closed along the way.
We discussed her voice studio, EKM, which has an entire team dedicated to teaching and coaching the next great voices of tomorrow! She shares what getting a voice lesson is like and what you can expect if you work with a coach.
We end with rapid fire, discovering Emily’s favorite show, her dream role (which we like to think we manifested wink wink), and her dressing room essentials!
Sign up for your own voice lesson at the link below and go see Waitress at the Hangar Theatre July 10-19!

EKM STUDIO: https://www.emilykristenmorris.com/ekm-vocal-studio
WAITRESS: https://hangartheatre.org/event/waitress/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/emilykristenmorris/?hl=en]]>2102falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sonny-acres-farm--66492341We meet Jeannine Fontana, who in 2019 purchased the farm with her husband (also a lifelong Sonny Acres fan) and his friend. She shares some of the farm’s history and how it grew to be a staple for fall festivals and childhood traditions.
Jeannine tells us about what goes on during their other seasons, including their upcoming summer rodeos, flower sales and Christmas trail.
Jeannine also shares her passion project, building a brand new wedding venue on the farm! Aaron also tries to pitch her on having him be their first wedding (he has been engaged for six years, it’s about time he locks it down)!!
We end with six acres of rapid fire, learning Jeannine’s favorite Sonny Acres food and her favorite ride on the farm!
VISIT/INFO: https://sonnyacres.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/sonnyacresfarm/]]>cf933db1-b5a6-4d37-98c6-b1b101975cf7Tue, 10 Jun 2025 11:02:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThere’s 22 acres and a thousand reasons to love Sonny Acres! Aaron’s childhood pumpkin patch and Ioanna’s farm dream come true, this gem of a space in the middle of Chicagoland has 125 years of stories to tell! We meet Jeannine Fontana, who in 2019...We meet Jeannine Fontana, who in 2019 purchased the farm with her husband (also a lifelong Sonny Acres fan) and his friend. She shares some of the farm’s history and how it grew to be a staple for fall festivals and childhood traditions.
Jeannine tells us about what goes on during their other seasons, including their upcoming summer rodeos, flower sales and Christmas trail.
Jeannine also shares her passion project, building a brand new wedding venue on the farm! Aaron also tries to pitch her on having him be their first wedding (he has been engaged for six years, it’s about time he locks it down)!!
We end with six acres of rapid fire, learning Jeannine’s favorite Sonny Acres food and her favorite ride on the farm!
VISIT/INFO: https://sonnyacres.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/sonnyacresfarm/]]>1571falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/vacations-by-rail--66369154After trauma dumping for ten minutes about our flying anxiety, we discuss the unique benefits of traveling by rail! Liz breaks down what to expect for first-timers and spotlights some of the perks, such as constant views and a unique ability to hop on and off along your route!
She shares the must-book experiences for 2025, what’s trending in the world of rail. and shares some of what she envisions for the future of American rail!
We end the episode with a round of rapid fire, featuring her favorite onboard snack, dream rail destination and more! Liz also designs the perfect trip for us (no flying needed)!
Visit their site to browse trips and learn more!
BOOK & INFO: https://www.vacationsbyrail.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/vacationsbyrail/?hl=en]]>fccf9e26-227d-44e3-963f-03eae38f173eMon, 02 Jun 2025 13:23:53 +0000Ioanna KekatosAll aboard the Amtrak to adventure! This week, we’re joined by Liz Owens, Vice President and General Manager of Vacations By Rail, a Chicago-based company that helps travelers explore the world by train! After trauma dumping for ten minutes about our...After trauma dumping for ten minutes about our flying anxiety, we discuss the unique benefits of traveling by rail! Liz breaks down what to expect for first-timers and spotlights some of the perks, such as constant views and a unique ability to hop on and off along your route!
She shares the must-book experiences for 2025, what’s trending in the world of rail. and shares some of what she envisions for the future of American rail!
We end the episode with a round of rapid fire, featuring her favorite onboard snack, dream rail destination and more! Liz also designs the perfect trip for us (no flying needed)!
Visit their site to browse trips and learn more!
BOOK & INFO: https://www.vacationsbyrail.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/vacationsbyrail/?hl=en]]>1882falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/camp-wandawega--66058302This incredible retreat located just north of the border in Wisconsin has it all- a private lakefront, hiking trails, and the most Instagramable accommodations even Martha Stewart couldn’t have designed herself.
With roots in Prohibition and the Catholic Church, its location has many a tale to tell (if only walls could talk are we right)?!
Luckily, we met Tereasa Surratt, Co-Owner of Camp with her husband David, and she does an amazing job telling just a pinch of the camps’s storied past!
From cozy cabins to traditional tents, there is an accommodation for every vibe. Learn about them and the many outdoor activities you and your guest can indulge in during your vacation.
Learn from Tereasa why it’s so important to unplug and unwind, especially for the many creatives who come to the resort each year!
Tereasa also shares some updates on her newest project the “Bureau of Tourism” in West Town and we find out about their bourbon with CH Distillery, a past guest on the show!
We end with rapid campfire, discovering Tereasa’s favorite camp scent and how she likes her s’mores!
BOOK & INFO: https://wandawega.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/campwandawega/?hl=en]]>666864a8-b795-4724-bf2b-227842dd7fa8Mon, 12 May 2025 17:11:33 +0000Ioanna KekatosA podcast for campers, glampers and everyone in between! Pack your cutest flannel and prepare to wander into the rustic summer retreat of your dream! Welcome to Camp Wandawega! This incredible retreat located just north of the border in Wisconsin has...This incredible retreat located just north of the border in Wisconsin has it all- a private lakefront, hiking trails, and the most Instagramable accommodations even Martha Stewart couldn’t have designed herself.
With roots in Prohibition and the Catholic Church, its location has many a tale to tell (if only walls could talk are we right)?!
Luckily, we met Tereasa Surratt, Co-Owner of Camp with her husband David, and she does an amazing job telling just a pinch of the camps’s storied past!
From cozy cabins to traditional tents, there is an accommodation for every vibe. Learn about them and the many outdoor activities you and your guest can indulge in during your vacation.
Learn from Tereasa why it’s so important to unplug and unwind, especially for the many creatives who come to the resort each year!
Tereasa also shares some updates on her newest project the “Bureau of Tourism” in West Town and we find out about their bourbon with CH Distillery, a past guest on the show!
We end with rapid campfire, discovering Tereasa’s favorite camp scent and how she likes her s’mores!
BOOK & INFO: https://wandawega.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/campwandawega/?hl=en]]>2040falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-blackstone-hotel--65780063Known for its many iconic former guests, including Teddy Roosevelt and Jimmy Carter, the historic hotel on Chicago’s Michigan Ave blends its historic mystique with modern day luxury. As part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, the hotel boasts incredible lake views and enough tales of history to fill a book!
We chat with Violet Tossler, Marketing Manager for the property, who gives us the full historic rundown, from when the Blackstone was the tallest building in Chicago to the time Kennedy learned about the Cuban Missile Crisis from the Presidential Suite. There was even a barbershop inside where Al Capone and many presidents regularly got haircuts!
The hotel is also known for coining the term “a smoke filled room” as it was in one of the hotel suites where Warren G Harding was nominated for president outside the view of the press.
Beyond the history, Violet describes the hotel’s insane amenities, including a ton of original artwork, an on-site restaurant, and the most insane event space perfecting for weddings!
This is the perfect hotel for summer travelers or if you’re a local looking to have a unique staycation!

BOOK: https://www.theblackstonehotel.com/

SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/theblackstonehotel/]]>ce62ac68-8c31-4be3-9fe3-dbc5c939ab6fMon, 28 Apr 2025 11:37:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosPresident Ioanna and VP Aaron would like to formally invite you to hear the tale of Chicago’s “Hotel of Presidents”! Known for its many iconic former guests, including Teddy Roosevelt and Jimmy Carter, the historic hotel on Chicago’s Michigan Ave...Known for its many iconic former guests, including Teddy Roosevelt and Jimmy Carter, the historic hotel on Chicago’s Michigan Ave blends its historic mystique with modern day luxury. As part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, the hotel boasts incredible lake views and enough tales of history to fill a book!
We chat with Violet Tossler, Marketing Manager for the property, who gives us the full historic rundown, from when the Blackstone was the tallest building in Chicago to the time Kennedy learned about the Cuban Missile Crisis from the Presidential Suite. There was even a barbershop inside where Al Capone and many presidents regularly got haircuts!
The hotel is also known for coining the term “a smoke filled room” as it was in one of the hotel suites where Warren G Harding was nominated for president outside the view of the press.
Beyond the history, Violet describes the hotel’s insane amenities, including a ton of original artwork, an on-site restaurant, and the most insane event space perfecting for weddings!
This is the perfect hotel for summer travelers or if you’re a local looking to have a unique staycation!

BOOK: https://www.theblackstonehotel.com/

SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/theblackstonehotel/]]>1442falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ifly--65653723It’s immersion therapy week for Ioanna and Aaron! To get over their fear of flying, they’ve partnered with iFLY to literally take flight at their iconic indoor skydiving experience!
Joe Velez, the Senior Regional Director for iFLY, introduces us to the company and how indoor skydiving came to be! We discuss the experience of indoor flight and breakdown the fascinating science of their wind tunnel.
Hear how it differs from outdoor skydiving and why it’s perfect for even the most anxious flyers (cough cough Ioanna & Aaron).
We end with rapid fire, finding out Jose’s favorite stunt to perform and what’s on his skydiving playlist.

BOOK A FLIGHT: https://www.iflyworld.com/

SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/iflyus/?hl=en
Chicago Locations: Rosemont, Lincoln Park, and Naperville]]>f0fb11a7-b29e-45bf-a9f4-ef2fbca6a468Mon, 21 Apr 2025 15:07:21 +0000Ioanna KekatosNow boarding iFLY flight 0001 from Chicago to wherever the wind takes us! It’s immersion therapy week for Ioanna and Aaron! To get over their fear of flying, they’ve partnered with iFLY to literally take flight at their iconic indoor skydiving...It’s immersion therapy week for Ioanna and Aaron! To get over their fear of flying, they’ve partnered with iFLY to literally take flight at their iconic indoor skydiving experience!
Joe Velez, the Senior Regional Director for iFLY, introduces us to the company and how indoor skydiving came to be! We discuss the experience of indoor flight and breakdown the fascinating science of their wind tunnel.
Hear how it differs from outdoor skydiving and why it’s perfect for even the most anxious flyers (cough cough Ioanna & Aaron).
We end with rapid fire, finding out Jose’s favorite stunt to perform and what’s on his skydiving playlist.

BOOK A FLIGHT: https://www.iflyworld.com/

SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/iflyus/?hl=en
Chicago Locations: Rosemont, Lincoln Park, and Naperville]]>1936falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/penguin-foot-pottery--65566146Lucky for Aaron & Ioanna, they found Penguin Foot Pottery and knew they were in good hands (literally).
We chat with Chris and Paige Busse about their Logan Square pottery studio and how they transitioned into full-time studio life!
Hear what’s trending in the world of pottery and find out the many experiences offered at the studio. From classes that last multiple sessions to one-time workshops, there’s something for all of us, even us clay newbies!
We also geek out to some pottery science in honor of Aaron’s Chemistry teacher husband!
We end with a round of rapid fire in the kiln to learn if Chris and Paige have a favorite piece and they describe Aaron and Ioanna as pieces of pottery!
Visit the studio at 2514 W Armitage! And book below.

BOOK: https://www.penguinfoot.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/penguinfootpottery/?hl=en]]>b5282919-04ee-4aff-a8b2-f2bbacf29631Mon, 14 Apr 2025 10:41:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosYou’ve seen it in the movies- an artist wannabe goes into a studio, throws some clay on the wheel, and SPLAT, it’s all over the walls and ceiling, ruining your $120 Abercrombie jeans and leaving you with nothing to be on your mantle. Lucky for Aaron...Lucky for Aaron & Ioanna, they found Penguin Foot Pottery and knew they were in good hands (literally).
We chat with Chris and Paige Busse about their Logan Square pottery studio and how they transitioned into full-time studio life!
Hear what’s trending in the world of pottery and find out the many experiences offered at the studio. From classes that last multiple sessions to one-time workshops, there’s something for all of us, even us clay newbies!
We also geek out to some pottery science in honor of Aaron’s Chemistry teacher husband!
We end with a round of rapid fire in the kiln to learn if Chris and Paige have a favorite piece and they describe Aaron and Ioanna as pieces of pottery!
Visit the studio at 2514 W Armitage! And book below.

BOOK: https://www.penguinfoot.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/penguinfootpottery/?hl=en]]>1644falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/hershey-super-sweet-adventure-by-ogx--65079093Ioanna & Aaron Twizzler Twist and are Jolly as a Rancher at Chicago’s Hershey Super Sweet Adventure!
Caitlin Maloney, Vice President of Creative at Original X Productions (OGX), introduces us to the company behind some of the nation’s greatest immersive IP experiences, including Harry Potter, Friends, and now Hershey!
We chat about the reopening of this Michigan Avenue experience. Coming at the perfect time as we emerge out of our winter slumber, it’s the refreshing downtown activity we needed!
Sweet surprises are sure to delight the family, especially the kid inside all of us. Featuring Hershey themed challenges, activities, and delectable photo pops, this is the perfect spring break or weekend fun for candy lovers, which let’s face it, is all of us.
Learn how the OGX team took iconic brands like Reese’s or Jolly Rancher and turned them into big, bold, and immersive exhibits. Taking on the role of “Sweet Seekers”, you’ll engage with this timeless American brand in ways you never thought possible!
We end with rapid fire, finding out if Caitlin has a favorite Hershey candy and which Jolly Rancher flavor she picks from the bag first!
Hershey Super Sweet Adventure is now open! Located in Chicago Water Tower Place.
Recommended for candy lovers of all ages!
TICKETS: https://www.hersheysupersweetadventure.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/hersheysupersweetadventure/]]>475291e9-3515-48c1-9432-fda00f7b3538Mon, 24 Mar 2025 11:10:00 +0000Ioanna Kekatos*THIS IS A LIVE INTERVIEW! Pardon the chocolatey construction noises in the background* Ioanna & Aaron Twizzler Twist and are Jolly as a Rancher at Chicago’s Hershey Super Sweet Adventure! Caitlin Maloney, Vice President of Creative at Original...Ioanna & Aaron Twizzler Twist and are Jolly as a Rancher at Chicago’s Hershey Super Sweet Adventure!
Caitlin Maloney, Vice President of Creative at Original X Productions (OGX), introduces us to the company behind some of the nation’s greatest immersive IP experiences, including Harry Potter, Friends, and now Hershey!
We chat about the reopening of this Michigan Avenue experience. Coming at the perfect time as we emerge out of our winter slumber, it’s the refreshing downtown activity we needed!
Sweet surprises are sure to delight the family, especially the kid inside all of us. Featuring Hershey themed challenges, activities, and delectable photo pops, this is the perfect spring break or weekend fun for candy lovers, which let’s face it, is all of us.
Learn how the OGX team took iconic brands like Reese’s or Jolly Rancher and turned them into big, bold, and immersive exhibits. Taking on the role of “Sweet Seekers”, you’ll engage with this timeless American brand in ways you never thought possible!
We end with rapid fire, finding out if Caitlin has a favorite Hershey candy and which Jolly Rancher flavor she picks from the bag first!
Hershey Super Sweet Adventure is now open! Located in Chicago Water Tower Place.
Recommended for candy lovers of all ages!
TICKETS: https://www.hersheysupersweetadventure.com/
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/hersheysupersweetadventure/]]>1439falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/creator-of-strawberry-shortcake-care-bears-muriel-juneberry-fahiron--64933594Muriel Juneberry Fahiron is know for all the illustrations that made your childhood magical and your adulthood nostalgic. After a decades long career with various greeting card companies and agencies, Muriel now calls Tulsa home and graces our feed with her #kitchendance videos!
We chat with her about her early inspirations and what led her down the path of illustration. We talk the early days of her biggest lines like Strawberry Shortcake and Care Bears. Hear how these iconic brands came to be!
Discover how her sister ended up creating the first Strawberry Shortcake plush and find out even the smallest moments can turn into the biggest ideas!
We end chatting about Muriel’s upcoming themed cocktail event in Tulsa at The Vault, and hear about her studio, “Outta Thin Air”!
SHOP MURIEL’S STUDIO: https://www.outtathinairstudio.com/

COCKTAIL EVENT: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/the-vault-16524240625

FOLLOW HER INSTA:https://www.instagram.com/outtathinairstudio/?hl=en
FOLLOW HER TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@outta_thin_air]]>d14b8773-60d5-474c-a05b-d6ed3e54ee64Mon, 17 Mar 2025 11:41:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosMeet the Queen of Cute, Creator of Strawberry Shortcake and Key Designer behind Care Bears and The Get Along Gang! Muriel Juneberry Fahiron is know for all the illustrations that made your childhood magical and your adulthood nostalgic. After a...Muriel Juneberry Fahiron is know for all the illustrations that made your childhood magical and your adulthood nostalgic. After a decades long career with various greeting card companies and agencies, Muriel now calls Tulsa home and graces our feed with her #kitchendance videos!
We chat with her about her early inspirations and what led her down the path of illustration. We talk the early days of her biggest lines like Strawberry Shortcake and Care Bears. Hear how these iconic brands came to be!
Discover how her sister ended up creating the first Strawberry Shortcake plush and find out even the smallest moments can turn into the biggest ideas!
We end chatting about Muriel’s upcoming themed cocktail event in Tulsa at The Vault, and hear about her studio, “Outta Thin Air”!
SHOP MURIEL’S STUDIO: https://www.outtathinairstudio.com/

COCKTAIL EVENT: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/the-vault-16524240625

FOLLOW HER INSTA:https://www.instagram.com/outtathinairstudio/?hl=en
FOLLOW HER TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@outta_thin_air]]>3953falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/revolution-brewing--64673197In this episode, we brew up some craft beverage history and learn the founding story from Marty Scott, Barrel Program Manager at Revolution Brewing.
He dives into how a small Chicago brewery crafted its own path to success in a world of big beer. Plus, we learn what inspired the iconic name and eye-catching packaging of the brand.
Marty walks us through the brewery and how barrel aging works to impact flavor and drink experience.
Hear about the rapid growth and constant evolution of the industry over the last decade, and find out what’s ahead for famous products like “Hero IPA” and “City Series”
To end our episode, make sure you grab a cold one, you’re gonna need it for rapid fire! We learn Marty’s all time favorite craft beer, his favorite beer accoutrement, and more!
VISIT THE BREWERY: https://revbrew.com/visit
WHERE TO BUY: https://revolution-brewing.myshopify.com/
FOLLOW: https://www.instagram.com/revbrewchicago/?hl=en
]]>c4c2cceb-72d9-4c89-b279-1bab55f3ba34Mon, 03 Mar 2025 12:43:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosRaise your glass! This week we’re pouring one out for our friends at Revolution Brewing, Illinois' Largest Independent Craft Brewery! In this episode, we brew up some craft beverage history and learn the founding story from Marty Scott, Barrel Program...In this episode, we brew up some craft beverage history and learn the founding story from Marty Scott, Barrel Program Manager at Revolution Brewing.
He dives into how a small Chicago brewery crafted its own path to success in a world of big beer. Plus, we learn what inspired the iconic name and eye-catching packaging of the brand.
Marty walks us through the brewery and how barrel aging works to impact flavor and drink experience.
Hear about the rapid growth and constant evolution of the industry over the last decade, and find out what’s ahead for famous products like “Hero IPA” and “City Series”
To end our episode, make sure you grab a cold one, you’re gonna need it for rapid fire! We learn Marty’s all time favorite craft beer, his favorite beer accoutrement, and more!
VISIT THE BREWERY: https://revbrew.com/visit
WHERE TO BUY: https://revolution-brewing.myshopify.com/
FOLLOW: https://www.instagram.com/revbrewchicago/?hl=en
]]>1897falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ballyhoo-hospitality--64418163Known for their feel-good vibes and opulent customer service, the group brings “going out for a night in the city” to the suburbs and offers a vibey way to have “lunch with friends”. If you’re like us and like to be home by 9, you can still live your best life and not need to crash the next day!
We meet Kayla Morrison, Vice President of Operations, who introduces us to Founders Ryan and Anna O'Donnell. They started with a single location just days after their wedding and turned that into the thriving restaurant group that exists today (pretty quickly too for the restaurant industry)!
Discover some of the many culinary options sprinkled throughout Chicagoland and how they bring a concept to life. From Ryan’s in-office Pinterest board to opening day, the Ballyhoo is in the details.
We discuss where they’re going next and what’s to come in 2025/2026 (new spots are opening)!!
We end with rapid fire, in which Kayla describes Ioanna and Aaron as a Ballyhoo restaurant! Plus, her go-to entree and cocktail!
Play wherever you listen to podcasts by searching “Sip With Me”!
#food #restaurants #chicago #foodie]]>f7f750d2-72dd-4a19-b4f2-8367799e580bMon, 17 Feb 2025 12:40:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosMeet your neighbor, Ballyhoo! At 11 locations and growing, it’s likely you’ve dined with Ballyhoo Hospitality before. Their roster includes names like Denucci’s, Gemini, Petit Pomeroy, Pizza by Sal, and more! Known for their feel-good vibes and...Known for their feel-good vibes and opulent customer service, the group brings “going out for a night in the city” to the suburbs and offers a vibey way to have “lunch with friends”. If you’re like us and like to be home by 9, you can still live your best life and not need to crash the next day!
We meet Kayla Morrison, Vice President of Operations, who introduces us to Founders Ryan and Anna O'Donnell. They started with a single location just days after their wedding and turned that into the thriving restaurant group that exists today (pretty quickly too for the restaurant industry)!
Discover some of the many culinary options sprinkled throughout Chicagoland and how they bring a concept to life. From Ryan’s in-office Pinterest board to opening day, the Ballyhoo is in the details.
We discuss where they’re going next and what’s to come in 2025/2026 (new spots are opening)!!
We end with rapid fire, in which Kayla describes Ioanna and Aaron as a Ballyhoo restaurant! Plus, her go-to entree and cocktail!
Play wherever you listen to podcasts by searching “Sip With Me”!
#food #restaurants #chicago #foodie]]>1478falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gibsons-bar-steakhouse--64187149• Learn where the name “Gibsons” comes from and why there’s no apostrophe!
• Discover why their signature steaks are so popular
• Hear tales of Chicago history and stories of cultural icons who Gibsons can call “regulars”

Opened in 1989, Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse is Chicago’s Classic American steakhouse. Nestled comfortably between State & Rush, the restaurant is a decades-long favorite of celebrities, world leaders, and foodies alike. And even though we’re small fish, we’ve begun to celebrate every New Year’s Eve at the restaurant with hopes that one day we too will have our signed photo on the famous walls!
We’re cutting into the details of this tasty Chicago eatery with Liz Lombardo Stark, Director of Marketing & Public Relations at Gibsons Restaurant Group, and daughter of Owner Steve Lombardo.
Under the umbrella of Gibsons includes Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House, LUXBAR, Quartino Ristorante & Wine Bar, Gibsons Italia, The BOATHOUSE Orlando, Hugo’s Frog Bar & Chop House (on behalf of Rivers Casino), Bazaar Meat Chicago, and Bar Mar!
Our Episode Menu:
Drinks (Gibsons Martini)
To start off, we talk Gibsons history & find out who opened the restaurant and why. Plus, an exploration of their menu classics and a rundown of the other famous brands under the restaurant group.
Appetizer (Crab Cake, Fries, and Garbage Salad)
Getting hungry, we breakdown the details behind their famous steaks. We talk what makes Gibsons Prime Angus so special, and hear how their aging/cooking processes help enhance flavor.
Main Course (W.R.’s Chicago Cut Steak and Planked Lake Superior Whitefish)
We sizzle up some foodie folklore with Liz, including stories of the many celebrities who have dined at Gibsons. Plus, we talk why Gibsons quality service has helped it to span generations of customers (including our fave waiter, Karl)!
Dessert (Famous Carrot Cake)
A sweet round of rapid fire to end, we learn Liz’s favorite Gibsons steak, go-to cocktail, and the coolest person she’s met while at Gibsons!


MENU/RESERVATIONS: https://gibsonssteakhouse.com/gibsons-chicago/

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/gibsonssteakhouse/?hl=en

ORDER & SHIP: https://gibsonssteak.com/
ALL RESTAURANTS: https://grgmc.com/restaurants
]]>e1f079b0-bf4b-4d3c-85cc-608f47aaa6cbTue, 04 Feb 2025 12:05:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosEPISODE HIGHLIGHTS • Learn where the name “Gibsons” comes from and why there’s no apostrophe! • Discover why their signature steaks are so popular • Hear tales of Chicago history and stories of cultural icons who Gibsons can call “regulars” Opened...• Learn where the name “Gibsons” comes from and why there’s no apostrophe!
• Discover why their signature steaks are so popular
• Hear tales of Chicago history and stories of cultural icons who Gibsons can call “regulars”

Opened in 1989, Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse is Chicago’s Classic American steakhouse. Nestled comfortably between State & Rush, the restaurant is a decades-long favorite of celebrities, world leaders, and foodies alike. And even though we’re small fish, we’ve begun to celebrate every New Year’s Eve at the restaurant with hopes that one day we too will have our signed photo on the famous walls!
We’re cutting into the details of this tasty Chicago eatery with Liz Lombardo Stark, Director of Marketing & Public Relations at Gibsons Restaurant Group, and daughter of Owner Steve Lombardo.
Under the umbrella of Gibsons includes Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House, LUXBAR, Quartino Ristorante & Wine Bar, Gibsons Italia, The BOATHOUSE Orlando, Hugo’s Frog Bar & Chop House (on behalf of Rivers Casino), Bazaar Meat Chicago, and Bar Mar!
Our Episode Menu:
Drinks (Gibsons Martini)
To start off, we talk Gibsons history & find out who opened the restaurant and why. Plus, an exploration of their menu classics and a rundown of the other famous brands under the restaurant group.
Appetizer (Crab Cake, Fries, and Garbage Salad)
Getting hungry, we breakdown the details behind their famous steaks. We talk what makes Gibsons Prime Angus so special, and hear how their aging/cooking processes help enhance flavor.
Main Course (W.R.’s Chicago Cut Steak and Planked Lake Superior Whitefish)
We sizzle up some foodie folklore with Liz, including stories of the many celebrities who have dined at Gibsons. Plus, we talk why Gibsons quality service has helped it to span generations of customers (including our fave waiter, Karl)!
Dessert (Famous Carrot Cake)
A sweet round of rapid fire to end, we learn Liz’s favorite Gibsons steak, go-to cocktail, and the coolest person she’s met while at Gibsons!


MENU/RESERVATIONS: https://gibsonssteakhouse.com/gibsons-chicago/

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/gibsonssteakhouse/?hl=en

ORDER & SHIP: https://gibsonssteak.com/
ALL RESTAURANTS: https://grgmc.com/restaurants
]]>1958falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chicago-boat-company--63675220Original Episode
This week, we meet Ron Silvia, President & Founder of Chicago Electric Boat Company. Famous for their year-round boating opportunities, Ron and his team have been innovators in Chicago’s aquatic tourism field for over a decade. Their notable boating experiences include last year’s viral Hot Tub Boats, Donut Boats, Retro Boats, pedal-powered Cycle Boats, and everything else from Pontoons to Duffys and Yachts!
We chat about how his days in Cape Cod influenced his vision for Chicago’s river and lake. Hear how he used new tech to bring Chicago’s most unique boating experiences to life, and learn about how everyone over 21 (including Ioanna and I) can learn to captain one of their vessels!
On top of the already instagramable opportunities, they have dog-friendly boating options for Aaron’s corgi!  Plus, Ron tells us about how much promise lies in the continued growth of Chicago’s vibrant aquatic scene.
We end with rapid fire to learn Ron’s favorite boat, his go-to snack when on the water, and his dream person to have on a boat ride (hint: it’s Katy Perry)!!!

BOOK A BOAT: https://chicagoboatcompany.com/

SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/chicagoboatco/
See you on the water! Hot Tub boats available now through mid-March!]]>ca16af69-5ff3-49f7-b89f-8f6ea8c23251Mon, 13 Jan 2025 12:54:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis week, we revisit one of our favorite episodes from 2024, Chicago Boat Company! We recently took a ride on one of their mega-viral “Hot Tub Boats” and just had to share the company story with you again in case you missed it last year. Listen now...Original Episode
This week, we meet Ron Silvia, President & Founder of Chicago Electric Boat Company. Famous for their year-round boating opportunities, Ron and his team have been innovators in Chicago’s aquatic tourism field for over a decade. Their notable boating experiences include last year’s viral Hot Tub Boats, Donut Boats, Retro Boats, pedal-powered Cycle Boats, and everything else from Pontoons to Duffys and Yachts!
We chat about how his days in Cape Cod influenced his vision for Chicago’s river and lake. Hear how he used new tech to bring Chicago’s most unique boating experiences to life, and learn about how everyone over 21 (including Ioanna and I) can learn to captain one of their vessels!
On top of the already instagramable opportunities, they have dog-friendly boating options for Aaron’s corgi!  Plus, Ron tells us about how much promise lies in the continued growth of Chicago’s vibrant aquatic scene.
We end with rapid fire to learn Ron’s favorite boat, his go-to snack when on the water, and his dream person to have on a boat ride (hint: it’s Katy Perry)!!!

BOOK A BOAT: https://chicagoboatcompany.com/

SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/chicagoboatco/
See you on the water! Hot Tub boats available now through mid-March!]]>1786falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/007-science-inventing-the-world-of-james-bond-at-chicago-s-griffin-museum-of-science-industry--63590102Chicago’s famous Griffin Museum of Science and Industry welcomes “007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond”. The exhibit, open through March 2025, explores the science and technology featured in the James Bond movies!
We sit down with Museum Chief Marketing and Revenue Officer, Laura Herrera, to discuss what you can expect from a visit to the 007 exhibit. She shares what cool gadgets and famous Bond cars you can see inside the exhibit! Plus, we discuss some of the amazing science that will immerse Bond fans young and old in the famous spy world!
We also chat about how an exhibit like this goes from concept to creation (spy hint: it takes a lot of talented people at GMSI a long time)! Plus, Laura discusses her career path in Chicago and how her experiences have shaped her work at the museum.
We end with a 007 round of rapid fire, finding out Laura’s favorite piece in the exhibit, her favorite Bond movie, and how she likes her martini!
Buy tickets now through spring 2025!
TICKETS/INFO: https://www.msichicago.org/explore/whats-here/exhibits/007-science-inventing-the-world-of-james-bond

SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/msichicago/?hl=en
VESPER MARTINI RECIPE: https://www.liquor.com/recipes/vesper/
...]]>f6a9073c-88ab-4219-972f-e8ce0a05edb1Mon, 06 Jan 2025 12:07:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThe name is Bond, James Bond, and I’ll have a Vesper Martini with a side of science to celebrate my movie series, which is the longest-running ever! Chicago’s famous Griffin Museum of Science and Industry welcomes “007 Science: Inventing the World of...Chicago’s famous Griffin Museum of Science and Industry welcomes “007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond”. The exhibit, open through March 2025, explores the science and technology featured in the James Bond movies!
We sit down with Museum Chief Marketing and Revenue Officer, Laura Herrera, to discuss what you can expect from a visit to the 007 exhibit. She shares what cool gadgets and famous Bond cars you can see inside the exhibit! Plus, we discuss some of the amazing science that will immerse Bond fans young and old in the famous spy world!
We also chat about how an exhibit like this goes from concept to creation (spy hint: it takes a lot of talented people at GMSI a long time)! Plus, Laura discusses her career path in Chicago and how her experiences have shaped her work at the museum.
We end with a 007 round of rapid fire, finding out Laura’s favorite piece in the exhibit, her favorite Bond movie, and how she likes her martini!
Buy tickets now through spring 2025!
TICKETS/INFO: https://www.msichicago.org/explore/whats-here/exhibits/007-science-inventing-the-world-of-james-bond

SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/msichicago/?hl=en
VESPER MARTINI RECIPE: https://www.liquor.com/recipes/vesper/
...]]>1279falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-berghoff--63393911We put the German lesson we got at the Christkindlmarket to use and head down the street to another one of our favorite holiday spots, The Berghoff! Their claim to fame is that they are nearly the oldest restaurant in Chicago, have OG liquor license number one from the city, and serve both award-winning food and beer with their Adams Street Brewery!
Assistant Manger Andrea Serrano, Brewers Jim Riggs & Mark Duchow, tell us some of the history behind the multi-generation family business. With roots in the World’s Fair, back then you got a sandwich as a side with your beer rather than a beer with your sandwich! Imagine that!
Andrea tells us about some of their famous German dishes, including schnitzel and black forest cake. Jim and Mark tell us about the brewery and some of the pours you can get, which really made us want a cold German pint!
We end with a discussion on what’s happening for the holidays, including a Christmas village  window display and their Christmas beer.
Rapid fire this week includes their favorite menu items and restaurant fun facts!
Visit them at 17 W Adams
RESERVATIONS/MENU: https://www.theberghoff.com/
ADAMS STREET BREWERY: https://www.adamsstreetbrewery.com/

SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/berghoffchicago/?hl=en

SHOP/GIFT: https://www.adamsstreetbrewery.com/shop/
...]]>a9b74085-50d9-4581-9844-78d047570e36Thu, 19 Dec 2024 13:38:23 +0000Ioanna KekatosFrohe Weihnachten, Chicago! We put the German lesson we got at the Christkindlmarket to use and head down the street to another one of our favorite holiday spots, The Berghoff! Their claim to fame is that they are nearly the oldest restaurant in...We put the German lesson we got at the Christkindlmarket to use and head down the street to another one of our favorite holiday spots, The Berghoff! Their claim to fame is that they are nearly the oldest restaurant in Chicago, have OG liquor license number one from the city, and serve both award-winning food and beer with their Adams Street Brewery!
Assistant Manger Andrea Serrano, Brewers Jim Riggs & Mark Duchow, tell us some of the history behind the multi-generation family business. With roots in the World’s Fair, back then you got a sandwich as a side with your beer rather than a beer with your sandwich! Imagine that!
Andrea tells us about some of their famous German dishes, including schnitzel and black forest cake. Jim and Mark tell us about the brewery and some of the pours you can get, which really made us want a cold German pint!
We end with a discussion on what’s happening for the holidays, including a Christmas village  window display and their Christmas beer.
Rapid fire this week includes their favorite menu items and restaurant fun facts!
Visit them at 17 W Adams
RESERVATIONS/MENU: https://www.theberghoff.com/
ADAMS STREET BREWERY: https://www.adamsstreetbrewery.com/

SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/berghoffchicago/?hl=en

SHOP/GIFT: https://www.adamsstreetbrewery.com/shop/
...]]>1392falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/treetime-christmas-creations--63301658We chat with Christmas Expert and Owner of Treetime Christmas Creations, Laurie Kane, about how she created the largest Christmas store in the state! She breaks down this year’s holiday trends, plus tells us how next year’s tree & decor trends come into existence even before this Christmas is over!
She describes how innovative artificial trees have become in recent years, and guides us on what to possibly expect for the 2025 holiday season! Plus, how even Aaron and his Kindergarten decor skills can create something beautiful with a little of treetime help!
We end with rapid fire, discussing Laurie’s favorite Christmas tradition, a trend she’s loving, and her go-to holiday treat!
Visit them in Lake Barrington at 22102 N Pepper Rd!
SHOP ONLINE: https://www.treetime.com/
FOLLOW ON SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/treetimechristmascreations/?hl=en
...]]>e63b53f1-6386-49f8-9ca7-8339c1f25583Fri, 13 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosYule be sorry if you miss this one!From dazzling ornaments to show-stopping trees, the LARGEST Christmas store in Illinois is pure North Pole magic. We chat with Christmas Expert and Owner of Treetime Christmas Creations, Laurie Kane, about how she...We chat with Christmas Expert and Owner of Treetime Christmas Creations, Laurie Kane, about how she created the largest Christmas store in the state! She breaks down this year’s holiday trends, plus tells us how next year’s tree & decor trends come into existence even before this Christmas is over!
She describes how innovative artificial trees have become in recent years, and guides us on what to possibly expect for the 2025 holiday season! Plus, how even Aaron and his Kindergarten decor skills can create something beautiful with a little of treetime help!
We end with rapid fire, discussing Laurie’s favorite Christmas tradition, a trend she’s loving, and her go-to holiday treat!
Visit them in Lake Barrington at 22102 N Pepper Rd!
SHOP ONLINE: https://www.treetime.com/
FOLLOW ON SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/treetimechristmascreations/?hl=en
...]]>1617falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/aroma-workshop--63166555Aroma Workshop is a perfumery, making custom scent blends that rival all the nostalgic perfumes and colognes you love. They’ve been around for decades and that smells amazing to us!
We walk through the process with Marija, including how many fragrances you get to pick from to put into your perfume and how you can re-create timeless classics! Plus, they keep your perfume on file in case you ever want to reorder!
We also discuss the natural element behind their products, and talk essential oils + natural skincare! Plus, the importance of nostalgia & emotion in fragrance creation.
We end with rapid fire, discussing Marija’s favorite scent combos. She even describes Ioanna & Aaron as a perfume (and she was very accurate)!
Visit them in Lincoln Park at 2110 N Halsted!
BOOK A WORKSHOP: https://www.aromaworkshop.com/
AROMA SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/aroma_workshop/?hl=en
]]>15e5eb48-73b3-464e-9914-983f4fd5d758Thu, 05 Dec 2024 12:31:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosPut us in a bottle and wrap it with a bow! This week, we’re diving nose-first into the art of perfume making with perfume master, Marija Lazarevic, of Aroma Workshop! It’s our 2024 unique holiday gift and winter activity idea for Chicagoans! Aroma...Aroma Workshop is a perfumery, making custom scent blends that rival all the nostalgic perfumes and colognes you love. They’ve been around for decades and that smells amazing to us!
We walk through the process with Marija, including how many fragrances you get to pick from to put into your perfume and how you can re-create timeless classics! Plus, they keep your perfume on file in case you ever want to reorder!
We also discuss the natural element behind their products, and talk essential oils + natural skincare! Plus, the importance of nostalgia & emotion in fragrance creation.
We end with rapid fire, discussing Marija’s favorite scent combos. She even describes Ioanna & Aaron as a perfume (and she was very accurate)!
Visit them in Lincoln Park at 2110 N Halsted!
BOOK A WORKSHOP: https://www.aromaworkshop.com/
AROMA SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/aroma_workshop/?hl=en
]]>1595falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fannie-may--63000943Fannie May has been around since the 1920’s when it all began as a neighborhood chocolate shop in Chicago. Since then, they’ve grown from a few recipes to over 100 tasty treats!
We meet Fernando Bernardo, Marketing Director at Fannie May, who takes us back to when Fannie May all began. We learn about how they became so popular and why their emphasis on quality & in-store experience has made them a forever-classic holiday treat.
Learn fun stories behind how your favorite chocolates came to exist- from Trinidads to Pixies, each chocolate has a tale!
And, get the run down from our expert chocolatier (Bernardo) on how to gift Fannie May this holiday season and beyond, including what deals you can bite into this Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and during their annual customer appreciation weekend Dec 8-9!
We end with rapid fire, discussing our favorite chocolates, a flavor we’d create, and our most nostalgic Fannie May memories!
Cocktails crafted by Muddling Memories at Fannie May’s “Cheers with Chocolate” event include the Pixie Espresso Brown Sugar Martini, Mint Meltaway Mint Chocolate Margarita, and Milk Chocolate Vanilla Buttercreams Vanilla Mimosa!
Shop at the links below and follow Fannie May on Social for deal announcements and more signature events like the one featured in this episode’s Instagram content!
SHOP FANNIE MAY: https://www.fanniemay.com/us/en/
STORE LOCATOR: https://locations.fanniemay.com/
FANNIE MAY SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/fanniemaychocolates/?hl=en
MUDDLING MEMORIES INFO: https://muddlingmemories.com/
MUDDLING MEMORIES SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/muddlingmemories/

]]>df1e88c5-002e-4bb2-bcf2-5e76a8deeb1bMon, 25 Nov 2024 12:27:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWe put the FAN in Fannie May, because we’re lifelong lovers of these iconic chocolates! From Pixies to Mint Meltaways, Ioanna and Aaron have indulged in Fannie May chocolates every holiday since they were kids. Aaron’s twin brother even worked in a...Fannie May has been around since the 1920’s when it all began as a neighborhood chocolate shop in Chicago. Since then, they’ve grown from a few recipes to over 100 tasty treats!
We meet Fernando Bernardo, Marketing Director at Fannie May, who takes us back to when Fannie May all began. We learn about how they became so popular and why their emphasis on quality & in-store experience has made them a forever-classic holiday treat.
Learn fun stories behind how your favorite chocolates came to exist- from Trinidads to Pixies, each chocolate has a tale!
And, get the run down from our expert chocolatier (Bernardo) on how to gift Fannie May this holiday season and beyond, including what deals you can bite into this Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and during their annual customer appreciation weekend Dec 8-9!
We end with rapid fire, discussing our favorite chocolates, a flavor we’d create, and our most nostalgic Fannie May memories!
Cocktails crafted by Muddling Memories at Fannie May’s “Cheers with Chocolate” event include the Pixie Espresso Brown Sugar Martini, Mint Meltaway Mint Chocolate Margarita, and Milk Chocolate Vanilla Buttercreams Vanilla Mimosa!
Shop at the links below and follow Fannie May on Social for deal announcements and more signature events like the one featured in this episode’s Instagram content!
SHOP FANNIE MAY: https://www.fanniemay.com/us/en/
STORE LOCATOR: https://locations.fanniemay.com/
FANNIE MAY SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/fanniemaychocolates/?hl=en
MUDDLING MEMORIES INFO: https://muddlingmemories.com/
MUDDLING MEMORIES SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/muddlingmemories/

]]>1729falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/night-of-1-000-jack-o-lanterns--62437814Exclusively at Chicago Botanic Garden, Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns features professionally carved pumpkins hand carved with a whole host of designs, from album covers, to Chicago icons, and even some TBT cartoons like Courage The Cowardly Dog!
Jodi Zombolo joins us for her 2nd appearance on Sip with Me to discuss this year’s Jack-o’-Lanterns! Find out about how their team chooses designs and carves 1,000 pumpkins, not once, but twice each Halloween!
Hear behind the scenes facts and find out what kind of Halloween goodies & cocktails are available each night!
We end with, you guessed it, jack-o’-lantern themed rapid fire!
The second installment of this event runs October 23-27 from 6:30-10:30pm. Tickets are already selling out so get them NOW!
*We also recommend you listen to our 2023 interview with Jodi about Holiday “Lightscape” and buy your tickets now! Both linked below!
Event Tickets: https://www.chicagobotanic.org/halloween
CBT: https://www.chicagobotanic.org
Social: https://www.instagram.com/chicagobotanic/?hl=en
Holiday Lightscape Tickets: https://www.chicagobotanic.org/lightscape
Quick Links: https://linktr.ee/sipwithme_
2023 Lightscape Holiday Interview with Jodi: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sip-with-me/id1522224564?i=1000634625687]]>18dd945c-874f-4f32-9198-ab7589bc2babMon, 21 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWhat’s better than one jack-o’-lantern? How about 1,000! Exclusively at Chicago Botanic Garden, Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns features professionally carved pumpkins hand carved with a whole host of designs, from album covers, to Chicago icons, and...Exclusively at Chicago Botanic Garden, Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns features professionally carved pumpkins hand carved with a whole host of designs, from album covers, to Chicago icons, and even some TBT cartoons like Courage The Cowardly Dog!
Jodi Zombolo joins us for her 2nd appearance on Sip with Me to discuss this year’s Jack-o’-Lanterns! Find out about how their team chooses designs and carves 1,000 pumpkins, not once, but twice each Halloween!
Hear behind the scenes facts and find out what kind of Halloween goodies & cocktails are available each night!
We end with, you guessed it, jack-o’-lantern themed rapid fire!
The second installment of this event runs October 23-27 from 6:30-10:30pm. Tickets are already selling out so get them NOW!
*We also recommend you listen to our 2023 interview with Jodi about Holiday “Lightscape” and buy your tickets now! Both linked below!
Event Tickets: https://www.chicagobotanic.org/halloween
CBT: https://www.chicagobotanic.org
Social: https://www.instagram.com/chicagobotanic/?hl=en
Holiday Lightscape Tickets: https://www.chicagobotanic.org/lightscape
Quick Links: https://linktr.ee/sipwithme_
2023 Lightscape Holiday Interview with Jodi: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sip-with-me/id1522224564?i=1000634625687]]>1023falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/richardson-adventure-farm-world-s-largest-corn-maze--62398039Located north of the city in picturesque northern Illinois, this is not your typical family farm! Richardson is home to the largest corn maze anywhere.
We meet George Richardson who runs the farm with his family. He tells us about the fun farm history (dating back to the 1830’s!) and he talks about how you actually design and make the world’s largest corn maze (it’s a very high tech process)!
On top of the corn maze, they have everything else you could dream of at a fall farm. The farm also boasts an impressive Christmas tree operation, sunflower fields, tulip festival, and craft beer festival!
And, the best apple cider donuts we’ve ever had (literally we don’t know how they made it so fluffy).
Visit the corn maze through October 27th!

VISIT: https://richardsonadventurefarm.com
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/richardsonadventurefarm/?hl=en
CORN MAZE PHOTO: https://richardsonadventurefarm.com/AdventureFarm/CornMaze
QUICK LINKS: https://linktr.ee/sipwithme_]]>5e633589-e553-4add-8dfa-016756d0ec4aThu, 17 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosPodcasters get lost in the world’s largest corn maze read the headlines! Don’t get cornfused- this is indeed the World’s Largest Corn Maze! Meet Richardson Adventure Farm! Located north of the city in picturesque northern Illinois, this is not your...Located north of the city in picturesque northern Illinois, this is not your typical family farm! Richardson is home to the largest corn maze anywhere.
We meet George Richardson who runs the farm with his family. He tells us about the fun farm history (dating back to the 1830’s!) and he talks about how you actually design and make the world’s largest corn maze (it’s a very high tech process)!
On top of the corn maze, they have everything else you could dream of at a fall farm. The farm also boasts an impressive Christmas tree operation, sunflower fields, tulip festival, and craft beer festival!
And, the best apple cider donuts we’ve ever had (literally we don’t know how they made it so fluffy).
Visit the corn maze through October 27th!

VISIT: https://richardsonadventurefarm.com
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/richardsonadventurefarm/?hl=en
CORN MAZE PHOTO: https://richardsonadventurefarm.com/AdventureFarm/CornMaze
QUICK LINKS: https://linktr.ee/sipwithme_]]>1804falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/october-cafe--62359047We meet Audrey Borden & Michelle Gonzalez, owners of the year-round fall themed cafe. A LGBTQ+IA, Latina operated cafe, they’re serving something special that usually only exists for a couple days each year as the Pumpkins glow and the apples crisp.
We chat about how the idea came about and what it’s like operating a themed cafe year round. Plus, we walk through their menu of delicious fall drinks & food- literally your mouth will be watering and you’ll be on your way faster than the leaves fall from the trees.
Audrey & Michelle are married IRL and it is so fun to hear them discuss opening and operating a small business in Norwood Park.
We end with rapid fire, finding out their favorite fall drinks, Halloween movie, and more!
Located at 6046 N Avondale Ave
WEBSITE: https://octobercafe.com
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/octobercafechicago/
QUICK LINKS: https://linktr.ee/sipwithme_]]>fd305c2e-d254-485b-a8e8-7bfab1488958Mon, 14 Oct 2024 11:30:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosHey Pumpkins! At October Cafe, everyone deserves to feel the love of fall ALL YEAR LONG! We meet Audrey Borden & Michelle Gonzalez, owners of the year-round fall themed cafe. A LGBTQ+IA, Latina operated cafe, they’re serving something special that...We meet Audrey Borden & Michelle Gonzalez, owners of the year-round fall themed cafe. A LGBTQ+IA, Latina operated cafe, they’re serving something special that usually only exists for a couple days each year as the Pumpkins glow and the apples crisp.
We chat about how the idea came about and what it’s like operating a themed cafe year round. Plus, we walk through their menu of delicious fall drinks & food- literally your mouth will be watering and you’ll be on your way faster than the leaves fall from the trees.
Audrey & Michelle are married IRL and it is so fun to hear them discuss opening and operating a small business in Norwood Park.
We end with rapid fire, finding out their favorite fall drinks, Halloween movie, and more!
Located at 6046 N Avondale Ave
WEBSITE: https://octobercafe.com
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/octobercafechicago/
QUICK LINKS: https://linktr.ee/sipwithme_]]>1344falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gene-georgetti-chicago-s-original-tuscan-steakhouse--62273844Chicago’s Famous & Original Tuscan Steakhouse since 1941, there are a lot of special ingredients that make this family business work. Michelle, Gene’s granddaughter, shares some of those ingredients, including rich family history, stories of her father, and some fun tales behind famous dishes like “Chicken Joe” and their award-winning steaks! From the Frank Sinatra Booth to the Chicago Mural Room, there’s chi-town legend seared into every detail. We answer questions like “who were Gene & Georgetti” and “what makes their steak so special”. From the food quality to the warm family embrace, there’s a reason all the who’s who have dined at this Chicago classic.  We end with rapid fire, in which Michelle tells us what Italian dish Ioanna and Aaron should order and who the coolest person she’s ever met at the restaurant is
This week’s cocktail, a Beefeater Gin Martini, on the rocks & with a twist, is dedicated to the memory of Tony Durpetti. Cheers, to Tony.
RESERVATIONS/MENU: https://geneandgeorgetti.com
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/gene_georgetti/
Quick Links: https://linktr.ee/sipwithme_
Cheers!]]>bd5adc3c-517a-4dde-982d-2943f22f8594Mon, 07 Oct 2024 16:34:34 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis episode is dedicated to the memory of Tony Durpetti, longtime Owner of Gene & Georgetti. Tony passed away shortly after our conversation with his daughter, Michelle Durpetti. It is folks like him who make Chicago special and whose stories are...Chicago’s Famous & Original Tuscan Steakhouse since 1941, there are a lot of special ingredients that make this family business work. Michelle, Gene’s granddaughter, shares some of those ingredients, including rich family history, stories of her father, and some fun tales behind famous dishes like “Chicken Joe” and their award-winning steaks! From the Frank Sinatra Booth to the Chicago Mural Room, there’s chi-town legend seared into every detail. We answer questions like “who were Gene & Georgetti” and “what makes their steak so special”. From the food quality to the warm family embrace, there’s a reason all the who’s who have dined at this Chicago classic.  We end with rapid fire, in which Michelle tells us what Italian dish Ioanna and Aaron should order and who the coolest person she’s ever met at the restaurant is
This week’s cocktail, a Beefeater Gin Martini, on the rocks & with a twist, is dedicated to the memory of Tony Durpetti. Cheers, to Tony.
RESERVATIONS/MENU: https://geneandgeorgetti.com
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/gene_georgetti/
Quick Links: https://linktr.ee/sipwithme_
Cheers!]]>1496falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gene-georgetti--62269449Chicago’s Famous & Original Tuscan Steakhouse since 1941, there are a lot of special ingredients that make this family business work. Michelle, Gene’s granddaughter, shares some of those ingredients, including rich family history, stories of her father, and some fun tales behind famous dishes like “Chicken Joe” and their award-winning steaks! From the Frank Sinatra Booth to the Chicago Mural Room, there’s chi-town legend seared into every detail. We answer questions like “who were Gene & Georgetti” and “what makes their steak so special”. From the food quality to the warm family embrace, there’s a reason all the who’s who have dined at this Chicago classic.  We end with rapid fire, in which Michelle tells us what Italian dish Ioanna and Aaron should order and who the coolest person she’s ever met at the restaurant is
This week’s cocktail, a Beefeater Gin Martini, on the rocks & with a twist, is dedicated to the memory of Tony Durpetti. Cheers, to Tony.
RESERVATIONS/MENU: https://geneandgeorgetti.com
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/gene_georgetti/
Quick Links: https://linktr.ee/sipwithme_
Cheers!]]>f57e64e7-a976-4ada-9a73-540c3fdacaa8Mon, 07 Oct 2024 10:58:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis episode is dedicated to the memory of Tony Durpetti, longtime Owner of Gene & Georgetti. Tony passed away shortly after our conversation with his daughter, Michelle Durpetti. It is folks like him who make Chicago special and whose stories are...Chicago’s Famous & Original Tuscan Steakhouse since 1941, there are a lot of special ingredients that make this family business work. Michelle, Gene’s granddaughter, shares some of those ingredients, including rich family history, stories of her father, and some fun tales behind famous dishes like “Chicken Joe” and their award-winning steaks! From the Frank Sinatra Booth to the Chicago Mural Room, there’s chi-town legend seared into every detail. We answer questions like “who were Gene & Georgetti” and “what makes their steak so special”. From the food quality to the warm family embrace, there’s a reason all the who’s who have dined at this Chicago classic.  We end with rapid fire, in which Michelle tells us what Italian dish Ioanna and Aaron should order and who the coolest person she’s ever met at the restaurant is
This week’s cocktail, a Beefeater Gin Martini, on the rocks & with a twist, is dedicated to the memory of Tony Durpetti. Cheers, to Tony.
RESERVATIONS/MENU: https://geneandgeorgetti.com
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/gene_georgetti/
Quick Links: https://linktr.ee/sipwithme_
Cheers!]]>1496falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/snakes-lattes--62077132At Snakes & Lattes, the gamers game, the foodies eat, and the worries of the world melt away in the background of its immersive environment. With over 800 games in their wood paneled game vault (it’s actually an old bank vault) and a menu worthy of a Michelin Star, this place is poppin with vibes and energy every night of the week.
We sat down in the game vault for a live interview with Anaïs Guilbert & John Eiswerth to discuss board game trends and how the industry changed after the pandemic. Plus, hear about their private rooms, including Enchanted Forest, Starship, and Haunted Study (we think the haunted study is actually haunted btw the vibes are there).
Anaïs discusses the history of the brand which has locations around the country and in Canada. John shares how Chicago game designers bring their new products to test with the crowd- you never know, you might get to the play the first version of the next global best seller!
Plus, their calendar is full of events like Taylor Swift Trivia & Drag Bingo.
We also discuss the impact of games on our mental health during COVID and Aaron announces that he actually designed a board game once!
We finish with a game of rapid fire to find out their favorite games and items on the menu!

RESERVATIONS & MENU: https://www.snakesandlattes.com/chicago
INSTA: https://www.instagram.com/snakesandlatteschicago/?hl=en
BROWSE THE GAME LIBRARY: https://www.snakesandlattes.com/library]]>72491c16-50da-4ca7-acdb-bc9bb25a9460Mon, 23 Sep 2024 11:39:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosHere’s a puzzle for you: what do Settlers of Catan, Cowboy Caviar, and the Enchanted Forest have in common? Well, nothing in the outside world, but everything at Chicago’s premier Board Game Bar & Restaurant! At Snakes & Lattes, the gamers...At Snakes & Lattes, the gamers game, the foodies eat, and the worries of the world melt away in the background of its immersive environment. With over 800 games in their wood paneled game vault (it’s actually an old bank vault) and a menu worthy of a Michelin Star, this place is poppin with vibes and energy every night of the week.
We sat down in the game vault for a live interview with Anaïs Guilbert & John Eiswerth to discuss board game trends and how the industry changed after the pandemic. Plus, hear about their private rooms, including Enchanted Forest, Starship, and Haunted Study (we think the haunted study is actually haunted btw the vibes are there).
Anaïs discusses the history of the brand which has locations around the country and in Canada. John shares how Chicago game designers bring their new products to test with the crowd- you never know, you might get to the play the first version of the next global best seller!
Plus, their calendar is full of events like Taylor Swift Trivia & Drag Bingo.
We also discuss the impact of games on our mental health during COVID and Aaron announces that he actually designed a board game once!
We finish with a game of rapid fire to find out their favorite games and items on the menu!

RESERVATIONS & MENU: https://www.snakesandlattes.com/chicago
INSTA: https://www.instagram.com/snakesandlatteschicago/?hl=en
BROWSE THE GAME LIBRARY: https://www.snakesandlattes.com/library]]>2273falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chicago-electric-boat-company--61830260This week, we meet Ron Silvia, President & Founder of Chicago Electric Boat Company. Famous for their year-round boating opportunities, Ron and his team have been innovators in Chicago’s aquatic tourism field for over a decade. Their notable boating experiences include last year’s viral Hot Tub Boats, Donut Boats, Retro Boats, pedal-powered Cycle Boats, and everything else from Pontoons to Duffys and Yachts!
We chat about how his days in Cape Cod influenced his vision for Chicago’s river and lake. Hear how he used new tech to bring Chicago’s most unique boating experiences to life, and learn about how everyone over 21 (including Ioanna and I) can learn to captain one of their vessels!
On top of the already instagramable opportunities, they have dog-friendly boating options for Aaron’s corgi!  Plus, Ron tells us about how much promise lies in the continued growth of Chicago’s vibrant aquatic scene.
We end with rapid fire to learn Ron’s favorite boat, his go-to snack when on the water, and his dream person to have on a boat ride (hint: it’s Katy Perry)!!!
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/chicagoeboats/?hl=en
BOOK A BOAT: https://www.chicagoelectricboats.com
See you on the water!]]>a9a55106-a758-4f8e-9e49-f0a79763895bMon, 16 Sep 2024 10:22:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosSummer might be nearing an end but we’re feeling electric about all the fun things ahead! This week, we meet Ron Silvia, President & Founder of Chicago Electric Boat Company. Famous for their year-round boating opportunities, Ron and his team...This week, we meet Ron Silvia, President & Founder of Chicago Electric Boat Company. Famous for their year-round boating opportunities, Ron and his team have been innovators in Chicago’s aquatic tourism field for over a decade. Their notable boating experiences include last year’s viral Hot Tub Boats, Donut Boats, Retro Boats, pedal-powered Cycle Boats, and everything else from Pontoons to Duffys and Yachts!
We chat about how his days in Cape Cod influenced his vision for Chicago’s river and lake. Hear how he used new tech to bring Chicago’s most unique boating experiences to life, and learn about how everyone over 21 (including Ioanna and I) can learn to captain one of their vessels!
On top of the already instagramable opportunities, they have dog-friendly boating options for Aaron’s corgi!  Plus, Ron tells us about how much promise lies in the continued growth of Chicago’s vibrant aquatic scene.
We end with rapid fire to learn Ron’s favorite boat, his go-to snack when on the water, and his dream person to have on a boat ride (hint: it’s Katy Perry)!!!
SOCIAL: https://www.instagram.com/chicagoeboats/?hl=en
BOOK A BOAT: https://www.chicagoelectricboats.com
See you on the water!]]>1541falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pop-craft-studio--61309529We talked with Manager Elvina Malkoc about the founding story, the insane crafting experiences they offer, and why crafting is having its moment. She discusses what cream glue is (check our insta for our adorable phone cases) and she tells us about some of the designs she’s seen at the studio. Plus, Ioanna and debate what we should gift!
We end the episode with a round of rapid fire where we find out Elvina’s favorite craft supply, favorite season to craft, and her favorite cocktail!
PopCraft is the perfect indoor activity for the fall and is ideal for dates, a night out with friends, or when we went there was a whole bachelorette happening (congrats to the bride)!
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/popcraft.studio
BOOK AN EXPERIENCE: https://popcraftstudio.com/]]>a5fc0614-7aaa-448a-b61a-01f2cb0fb185Mon, 09 Sep 2024 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosGrab your favorite color yarn and let’s craft for spooky season! We are so excited to feature Chicago’s PopCraft Studio. They offer a variety of crafts including Tufting, Cream Glue, Mosaic, Lipstick, and more! We talked with Manager Elvina Malkoc...We talked with Manager Elvina Malkoc about the founding story, the insane crafting experiences they offer, and why crafting is having its moment. She discusses what cream glue is (check our insta for our adorable phone cases) and she tells us about some of the designs she’s seen at the studio. Plus, Ioanna and debate what we should gift!
We end the episode with a round of rapid fire where we find out Elvina’s favorite craft supply, favorite season to craft, and her favorite cocktail!
PopCraft is the perfect indoor activity for the fall and is ideal for dates, a night out with friends, or when we went there was a whole bachelorette happening (congrats to the bride)!
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/popcraft.studio
BOOK AN EXPERIENCE: https://popcraftstudio.com/]]>1217falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/morgan-st-jean-this-is-for-life-tour--61238063Morgan joined us in early 2022, prior to she had released her iconic hit “Not All Men” and shortly after did it again with her single “Do it Like A Girl” which blew up on social media. She also released powerful anthems like “Right” and 2023’s viral Pride hit “Skin And Bones”.
Morgan is back to discuss her latest EP “My Mind And I” and her tour, which she completed earlier this year and, due to popularity, added a second leg that stops across the country in the coming weeks. She’ll tell us the meaning behind some of her new songs and discuss the creative process behind writing her hits and preparing for a national tour.
We end with rapid fire and discover Morgan’s tour snack must haves and her favorite artists right now.
Morgan comes to Chicago September 11, we’ll see you there ;)
TOUR DATES/TIX: https://www.morganstjean.com
FOLLOW: https://www.instagram.com/morganstjean/?hl=en
STREAM: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4kAyoGhVlC6PFg0FvMqmFB?si=Thzu4MLrT_m7ITcu3UuBNA]]>3ceb0902-2ccd-41de-9930-eba219260933Mon, 02 Sep 2024 11:09:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosMeet the most extraordinary musical artist of our generation! Morgan St. Jean has been releasing hits for years now and continues to climb the charts and our hearts. A genius songwriter, she is credited on several Chappel Roan hits. Morgan joined us...Morgan joined us in early 2022, prior to she had released her iconic hit “Not All Men” and shortly after did it again with her single “Do it Like A Girl” which blew up on social media. She also released powerful anthems like “Right” and 2023’s viral Pride hit “Skin And Bones”.
Morgan is back to discuss her latest EP “My Mind And I” and her tour, which she completed earlier this year and, due to popularity, added a second leg that stops across the country in the coming weeks. She’ll tell us the meaning behind some of her new songs and discuss the creative process behind writing her hits and preparing for a national tour.
We end with rapid fire and discover Morgan’s tour snack must haves and her favorite artists right now.
Morgan comes to Chicago September 11, we’ll see you there ;)
TOUR DATES/TIX: https://www.morganstjean.com
FOLLOW: https://www.instagram.com/morganstjean/?hl=en
STREAM: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4kAyoGhVlC6PFg0FvMqmFB?si=Thzu4MLrT_m7ITcu3UuBNA]]>2149falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/kevin-boehm-of-boka-restaurant-group--61079478We end with rapid fire, learning about Kevin’s favorite meal, neighborhood in Chicago, and one non-Boka restaurant he’s enjoying this summer!  
FOLLOW BOKA: https://www.instagram.com/bokachicago/?hl=en
FOLLOW KEVIN: https://www.instagram.com/kevinboehmboka/?hl=en
RESERVATIONS & RESTAURANTS: https://www.bokagrp.com]]>652875f2-b4bc-4ac9-8fd2-1f756740cb5bMon, 19 Aug 2024 11:34:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIt's time to eat Chicago! And what a better selection for us to choose from than the award winning Boka Restaurant Group!  Ioanna and I have been to many of their restaurants in Chicagoland and always celebrate with them on New Year’s Eve! Examples...We end with rapid fire, learning about Kevin’s favorite meal, neighborhood in Chicago, and one non-Boka restaurant he’s enjoying this summer!  
FOLLOW BOKA: https://www.instagram.com/bokachicago/?hl=en
FOLLOW KEVIN: https://www.instagram.com/kevinboehmboka/?hl=en
RESERVATIONS & RESTAURANTS: https://www.bokagrp.com]]>1870falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/big-bus-tours-hosts-sunset-live-tour-in-chicago--60925561This tour takes tourists and locals on a 90-minute journey around the Chicago loop and surrounding neighborhoods. Atop their iconic red, double-decker buses, you’ll see the city above even our CTA buses.
We chat with John Curran, Senior Vice President & General Manager at Big Bus Tours, about the Sunset Live Tour and the company’s traditional hop on & off experience.
John shares some of the facts you’ll learn on the tour, including that Lincoln Park used to be a huge cemetery and how there is a piece of burnt debris from the Great Chicago Fire you can visit. Highlights for us included driving down Lakeshore Drive with the wind in our hair and pulling over on Fullerton for a one of a kind view of the city.
We end with rapid fire and learn John‘s favorite Chicago restauraunt/neighborhood, and he brings us to tears, describing the one person in the world he would want to take on a big bus tour.
Sunset Live Tours run through October 19. They currently depart at 7:30 PM, but this time moves progressively earlier as the sun begins to set sooner.
TICKETS/INFO: https://www.bigbustours.com/en/chicago/chicago-sunset-live-night-tour-ticket
SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/bigbustours/?hl=en]]>02b2378f-5202-461c-b66b-69b011557d09Mon, 05 Aug 2024 11:28:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosAll aboard the Big Bus! One of the most moving experiences we’ve had in the city, the “Sunset Live Tour” by Big Bus Tours explores Chicago while the city’s architecture, historical landmarks, and lake are draped in the velvety shade of golden hour....This tour takes tourists and locals on a 90-minute journey around the Chicago loop and surrounding neighborhoods. Atop their iconic red, double-decker buses, you’ll see the city above even our CTA buses.
We chat with John Curran, Senior Vice President & General Manager at Big Bus Tours, about the Sunset Live Tour and the company’s traditional hop on & off experience.
John shares some of the facts you’ll learn on the tour, including that Lincoln Park used to be a huge cemetery and how there is a piece of burnt debris from the Great Chicago Fire you can visit. Highlights for us included driving down Lakeshore Drive with the wind in our hair and pulling over on Fullerton for a one of a kind view of the city.
We end with rapid fire and learn John‘s favorite Chicago restauraunt/neighborhood, and he brings us to tears, describing the one person in the world he would want to take on a big bus tour.
Sunset Live Tours run through October 19. They currently depart at 7:30 PM, but this time moves progressively earlier as the sun begins to set sooner.
TICKETS/INFO: https://www.bigbustours.com/en/chicago/chicago-sunset-live-night-tour-ticket
SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/bigbustours/?hl=en]]>1912falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/adler-planetarium--607661180ed87c82-8aec-42fc-8e0c-79f3a3342d07Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:18:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosDid you know Chicago's Adler Planetarium was the first open to the public in the entire western hemisphere? This week, you’ll learn how the iconic lakefront planetarium came to be nearly 100 years ago and the story behind some of its space artifacts....1960falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/portillo-s--6069613364acb866-88ad-49c0-a9e2-858cee131d0bMon, 15 Jul 2024 11:28:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosJoin us in celebrating National Hot Dog Month with our favorite dog, Portillo's!  In this episode, you'll learn the story behind Portillo's Chocolate Cake Shake, whose dog was the inspiration for the iconic hot dog logo, and what Portillo's is doing...1616false512fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/shedd-aquarium--6026354033a114d9-548b-4e32-b0d0-0cb907a013a9Mon, 03 Jun 2024 13:19:35 +0000Ioanna KekatosWith a crystal blue backdrop and a river running through its veins, Chicago is our aquatic queen. The Shedd Aquarium is our favorite destination in Chicago for sea otters, penguins and sea all things aquatic. We spoke with Senior Director of...1595false511fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/streeterville-social--6019782396e25ab4-3827-4220-b9a0-df937705e591Tue, 28 May 2024 11:25:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThe best food we’ve ever eaten? Quite possibly! Streeterville Social is the place to be during Chicago’s famous summer rooftop season! Chicago’s “go-to outdoor rooftop terrace serving up alfresco dining, libations, and a celebration of all things...1412false510fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/blue-man-group--6000867622f83426-10e6-4c9d-a233-c67303453031Mon, 13 May 2024 16:58:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIt’s a Blue Man’s World and we’re just living in it! This week, we’re thrilled to be featuring the iconic Blue Man Group! This immersive and transportive show has been around since 1987, but it’s gone through many changes and of course, several Blue...2269false515fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/loews-chicago-o-hare-executive-chef-chuck-gillis--597952925e1497a2-7cc1-4a22-a4b0-5bd1de61d0a3Fri, 03 May 2024 11:21:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIoanna and I love to leave a meal feeling satisfied. What we often forget to take into account though are the elements of dining at a restaurant that extend beyond the meal itself- the environment, the energy, and even the education you receive on the...1107false58fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chicago-s-soldier-field--59470118175be570-d0f2-4a0c-956f-12c19e90215dMon, 15 Apr 2024 11:44:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosSoldier Field is one of the most recognized and iconic Chicago landmarks. And many of you have likely been to a Bears game there, or perhaps a Taylor Swift concert! What you might not think about when you visit is that the stadium has hosted numerous...2266false57fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/shot-of-art--5918008699248e2e-126a-42c8-a42c-7348468f2887Tue, 26 Mar 2024 11:33:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosTake a Shot of Art with us! We all remember the creative days of our childhood when we could color outside the lines and make mud soup in the back yard. Now, there is a super unique experience that will remedy the creative void in anyone’s life and...1165false56fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pizano-s-pizza-pasta--59044187ec1c338b-01b6-4e9a-bc3d-cc18659c70dcThu, 14 Mar 2024 11:53:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosTo celebrate Pi-Day, we’re taking a deep dive into pizza pie history with Chicago’s famous Pizano’s Pizza & Pasta! (look how many pi’s we got into that sentence alone) A Chicago classic, deep dish was created to make a meal out of pizza, which...1640false55fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/superdawg--58824911ab622f2c-c96d-43ef-8967-47c0378a3034Mon, 26 Feb 2024 12:39:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWe’re SUPERdawg delighted to have Chicago’s famous Superdawg family on the show! At 75 years old, the family owned drive-in located at Devon, Nagle, and Milwaukee, remains a quality classic on the Chicago food scene. With its iconic blue tower and...2831false54fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/it-sugar--586732018831dfcd-e782-407a-8c12-d9828e908076Tue, 13 Feb 2024 12:15:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosFueled by sugar on the daily, Ioanna and Aaron are fun dippingly excited to learn more about their favorite candy shop, IT’SUGAR! Founded in 2006, IT'SUGAR calls itself one of the largest specialty candy "retailtainers" in the world, and at 100+...1726false63fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2024-chicago-auto-show--58574909d789f4e9-aa27-4294-8ebc-c7b9d69e5157Mon, 05 Feb 2024 12:32:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosStart your engines folks, we’re going to the Chicago Auto Show! There’s been nothing like it for Chicago- from the people it attracts to the impact is has on a global market, this is the place to be every February! First staged in 1901, the Chicago...2080false62fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/hubbard-street-dance-chicago-artistic-director-linda-denise-fisher-harrell--58306527e830b7eb-12ce-4831-9c86-2b047c9c2f60Mon, 15 Jan 2024 12:37:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosLinda-Denise Fisher-Harrell, Artistic Director of Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, joins us for our first episode of 2024! We were pumped to talk about the topic that brought Ioanna and I together ten years ago- DANCE! While a student at Julliard, 19...1624false61fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/voodoo-doughnut-ceo-chris-schultz--58058662044771c4-295e-4c87-ae36-ecac7e7d6c98Tue, 19 Dec 2023 12:52:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosToday, we’re cooking up some Voodoo magic, not around a traditional cauldron though, more like a burning hot cauldron filled with delectable fried dough! Started in Portland twenty years ago, Voodoo Doughnut is known for its unique flavors and...1720false527fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/candle-castle-co--57917937d9216148-90fd-4c09-8bd3-49eb7f90db31Tue, 05 Dec 2023 12:31:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosCandle Castle & Co. is the most magical and best smelling place in Chicago- especially during the holidays and in winter when we all need a little brightness in our lives! Enter Sunshine- the teacher of our class who led us on our journey of what...1411false526fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-pink-wonderland--57877532acc6f768-e9fe-4082-822d-eb5ef65de867Fri, 01 Dec 2023 13:22:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosMerry Pinkmas! Pink Wonderland is a very merry pink Christmas bar with locations in Chicago and New York. It seeks to “break from traditional Christmas bar norms, aiming to offer a fresh, unique take on the holiday season”. The pop-up has...954false523fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/joffrey-ballet-company-artist-victoria-jaiani-christopher-wheeldon-s-nutcracker--57824205862fad4a-8668-4337-bcba-8b856c599e4cMon, 27 Nov 2023 20:01:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosNutcracker returns once again to Chicago’s Lyric Opera! A part of many folks' holiday traditions, Ioanna and Aaron are so excited to learn about the show from Joffrey Ballet Company Artist, Victoria Jaiani! In her 20th year with the company, Victoria...1138false524fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/garrett-popcorn-shops-frango-chocolate--57729186f0eb5759-2880-4f54-bbe1-69dcf90257f0Mon, 20 Nov 2023 12:27:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosRaise your hand if Garrett Popcorn or Frango Chocolate are part of your Holiday traditions? Everyone should have a hand raised! The Holidays are here, so that means Ioanna and Aaron dedicate every waking thought to food.   Two timeless Chicago...1717false525fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/our-new-holiday-tradition-lightscape-at-chicago-botanic-garden--576172165f2cf089-7566-4b48-9322-56753a026ad9Mon, 13 Nov 2023 12:01:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThe Chicago Botanic Garden is the place to be, especially during their holiday “Lightscape” experience. Their 328 acres of pristine natural beauty in northern Cook County are transformed into an immersive journey that utilizes light, color, and sound...1266false522fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/75-years-of-affy-tapple-the-original-caramel-apple--570277942ad251cf-1316-43aa-a94f-9d27bedaf914Mon, 02 Oct 2023 11:09:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThe Original Caramel Apple is celebrating its 75th birthday! This October, bite into one of the nation’s favorite fall treats and fill your heart with the nostalgia that is the Affy Tapple brand. This delicious treat has filled hearts & homes...2204false521fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sally-schwartz-the-randolph-street-market-festival--569242466cd22689-d4aa-469e-b00f-5e85093b0fd8Mon, 25 Sep 2023 11:04:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosCome with us to Chicago’s premier antique market, a two-day event hosted by the fabulous Sally Schwartz and her team at Image Pilots. Browse indoor and outdoor vendors at this European-style vintage and antique festival. Established well before we...2205false57fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/brad-parker-parker-hospitality--56841265100259c1-a8b0-4af7-89d0-fc3c0879f2ddMon, 18 Sep 2023 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosVibe check! If you’re into food, drinks, and vibes, then boy-oh-boy do we have a guest for you. If you're a regular on the Chicago food and drink scene, chances are you've been to one of Brad Parker's establishments, which include the popular Hampton...1665false419fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/celebrity-chef-brooke-baevsky-chef-bae--5661359540a49edd-d7ad-4126-85a3-988cdc9bb3c4Mon, 28 Aug 2023 11:23:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis week, Celebrity Private Chef Brooke Baevsky, also known as “Chef Bae”, takes us into the kitchen to tell us all about her fascinating career and some of the viral content she’s created. She’s known for her day-in-the-life videos, shopping at...1673false518fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mr-kate-diy-design--56462934d678102d-2ebc-487d-b556-97582f9e89dcMon, 14 Aug 2023 10:25:30 +0000Ioanna KekatosPut on your fave overalls and goodwill tee because today we’re getting down and dirty with Mr. Kate! Famous design duo  Kate and Joey share everything design, decor, and DIY on their channel. You can find super helpful renovation tips, design inspo,...2055false517fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fashion-and-lifestyle-photographer-bekah-wriedt--56392974d8a9261b-cc5c-4144-8efe-c451ac7a7036Mon, 07 Aug 2023 11:17:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosBekah Wriedt is a chicago-based fashion and lifestyle photographer who shot our GORGEOUS, pink Sip with Me photos earlier this year. We feel the need to brag about how good she is by having her on the show to share her story, tips for getting your...1370false516fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/melissa-andre-founder-creative-director-chateau-caretaker--56211440b1b5e7d9-6b0f-41e5-aae4-45742a0e4fddTue, 25 Jul 2023 11:01:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThe day after Ioanna’s wedding last summer, we ambitiously aired an episode of Sip With Me while we were still recovering from the Greek tradition of dancing all night and breaking plates. It was iconic because our guest was an icon, Melissa Andre,...2069false517fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/michael-le-content-creator-and-entrepreneur--56049172392195a2-bfd9-4c80-9914-cedb22cef0d2Mon, 10 Jul 2023 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosAt 52 Million TikTok followers and 1.4 Billion likes, Michael Le is one of the world’s most influential, most viewed, and key to his success, most loving and positive, social media personalities out there. Everything he touches turns to gold, and...1817false516fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sheenah-melwani-tiktok-star-singer--5511348372399797-fd48-4cb3-a24f-e7144f4540a2Mon, 26 Jun 2023 11:32:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosSheena Melwani is a media personality, but not one who went down this path on purpose. With musical roots, Sheena has always been known for her amazing voice, and in 2020, her and her husband @therealindiandad went viral, forming their iconic...1829false515fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tremaine-atkinson-ceo-co-founder-at-ch-distillery-jeppson-s-malort--5451888004857c5c-aac0-490a-a524-92c7bf3d00a6Mon, 19 Jun 2023 11:21:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThere’s nothin’ more Chicago than a shot of Malört (or a bottle)! It’s famous for its unique taste and rich history. It’s a traditional wormwood based liquor near and dear to Chicago’s food and drink pop culture, and it’s been gaining insane...2025false514fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/bernie-s-mitten-maker-jen-ellis--54287666d97dff5d-c602-495c-93f5-4d4cf71a7d8cMon, 12 Jun 2023 11:06:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosShe’s back, and this time, she’s an author! You know the memes- one of the most recognizable online symbols of the last decade. Jen Ellis, the creator of Bernie Sanders’ mittens, joined us in June 2021 well after the meme frenzy had cooled, and...2476false513fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/seltzerland--54099464d6bc4241-53d6-4a08-b1e6-6209c61bfaf7Mon, 05 Jun 2023 11:24:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosSeltzerland could be coming to a city near you! We chat with Kate Levenstein of Cannonball Productions about her food and beverage events company which is throwing this epic bash! We talk our favorite seltzers, some of the cool brands who will be...1703false514fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/funny-face-bakery--53957373cd75f99b-e2ab-461c-917f-a96e5f3c29a4Mon, 22 May 2023 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosYou’ve seen these celeb favorite, super meme-worthy cookies before, most likely for the first time during the 2016 presidential campaign. Sarah Silverman, Owner of New York’s Funny Face Bakery, got her start in baking after leaving school to pursue...1689false512fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/celebrity-chef-author-eitan-bernath--53870330f7f29457-bbb2-425b-83ab-5e285507dca2Mon, 15 May 2023 10:31:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosLive from our virtual kitchen, it’s Eitan Bernath! Chef, Author, Activist, Entertainer, Entrepreneur, and CEO, he’s got the tastiest bio of any 21 year-old we know! At 3 billion views annually across social platforms, he is an international...2189false512fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tyson-audy-leavitt-of-charmed-playhouses--53809808b6f13ce1-f692-4702-b086-37945081becfWed, 10 May 2023 17:14:40 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis week, we’re featuring Tyson and Audy Leavitt of Charmed Playhouses & Resorts! The Charmed team makes the most unique and fantastic playhouses in the world, and also operates a resort featuring stunning cottages that will transport you to...2135false511fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tyson-audy-leavitt-of-charmed-playhouses--53775483d4a96014-b532-4fa3-9dd9-68a0aa2ad932Mon, 08 May 2023 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis week, we’re featuring Tyson and Audy Leavitt of Charmed Playhouses & Resorts! The Charmed team makes the most unique and fantastic playhouses in the world, and also operates a resort featuring stunning cottages that will transport you to...2185false511fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fashion-artist-and-author-holly-nichols--535582591ee1353d-b52e-437b-823a-32059d8a65acMon, 17 Apr 2023 11:04:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosShe comes with news! Welcome back to Fashion Artist and Author, Holly Nichols! Also known as “hnicholsillustration”, she joined us in April 2021 to discuss her rise on TikTok and her book, “Modern Fashion Illustration”. Since then, she’s up to 1.7...2084false510fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/cotton-candy-dreams-art-of-sucre-2-years-later--534279275ad03278-96ed-4976-ab31-d526f96a87d6Mon, 03 Apr 2023 11:28:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis week we’re featuring the legendary Queen of Cotton Candy, Emily Harpel, Founder of Art of Sucre, back on the show to walk down memory lane! Emily joined us in February 2021 to discuss her luxury cotton candy brand that was going viral all over...1525false57fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-jovial-check-in-on-jove-meyer-color-obsessed-design-celebration-expert--533516237f97b3de-bdaf-436b-a5d0-d2474495353cMon, 27 Mar 2023 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWe’re once are graced by the presence of wedding and event gawd, Jove Meyer. Jove is a “color obsessed design and celebration expert” who joined us in September 2021 to discuss his wedding and event planning business, and he shared some tips for us as...1985false59fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ilana-dunn-fiance-host-of-seeing-other-people--53262181ae59862a-8fe6-41ed-a11c-05822f50bc58Mon, 20 Mar 2023 11:10:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIlana joined us in January 2022 to discuss her epically popular podcast, @seeingotherpeople. On it, she shares expert and listener advice, stories, and opinions on dating, with the goal of making you feel less alone! She also told us about her insane...1982false57fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/barry-butler-chicago-s-1-photographer--53108920e153dc1f-c8e3-4ad8-a761-7b5bd99beb07Mon, 06 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIf you’ve ever seen a photo of a Chicago sunrise, epic skyline, or insane weather shot, you’ve probably seen the work of Barry Butler. Chicago-based photographer Barry Butler is a self-taught photographer with over 20 years of global experience. With...2158false56fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tv-film-intimacy-coordinator-jessica-steinrock--53004812a021fcc7-366b-40b8-8d9a-ddca5baba6ebMon, 27 Feb 2023 12:01:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosImagine you’ve just been hired as an “Intimacy Coordinator” for the film and television industry. There’s not many people who do it, but it’s a job increasing in demand and skill. A new position in the film and tv industry is barring it all- the role...1683false55fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/anna-phillips-founder-cio-of-the-lash-lounge--53004529871e8e69-071e-4b53-83ec-11468816b21cMon, 20 Feb 2023 12:32:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosLet’s see those lashes!! This episode features Anna Phillips, Founder and Chief Innovation Officer at The Lash Lounge, a premier eyelash salon franchise with over 120 salons across the U.S. and growing. Founded in 2006, her specialty beauty concept...1947false54fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/xo-marshmallow-chicago-s-gourmet-marshmallow-biz-world-s-first-marshmallow-cafe--53004826ea60ddfc-9df6-443a-8995-0746fb67be40Mon, 30 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosGather ‘round the campfire and sing our campfire song! We’re roasting up an ooey gooey treat for you today! Our guest, XO Marshmallow, is the premier gourmet marshmallow company in the world, AND opened the world’s very 1st marshmallow cafe, right...1640false53fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/actor-author-something-borrowed-all-my-children-colin-egglesfield--530054630baf9e78-1bd3-424d-9359-5bd8a483d153Mon, 09 Jan 2023 12:54:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosGet comfy on the couch and turn on the big screen to be graced by one of our favorite Hollywood actors (with Chicago roots too), Colin Egglesfield! You know Colin from his roles on, All My Children, Melrose Place, The Client List, Something...2690false52fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/happy-new-year-from-carole-baskin--530047578349bc23-9f8e-4088-b9ba-00ac7cb0a769Mon, 02 Jan 2023 12:03:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosHappy New Year Cool Cats & Kittens! Carole Baskin returns to the show this week to update us on what has happened since we first met back in July 2021! Updates include many visits the the U.S. Capitol, getting her bill signed by President Biden...634false51fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/christmas-special-wreaths-by-waldo--5300454120b13905-5588-45f1-b5c4-8250d21edd3bFri, 23 Dec 2022 21:46:38 +0000Ioanna KekatosMerry Christmas Sip with Me Family! Emily Waldo, known as Wreaths by Waldo, is a part-time wreath maker, full-time holiday enthusiast! She makes the most stunning wreaths and holiday decor. She’s blown up this year bigger than a giant inflatable Santa...1563false487fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/dr-katya-echazarreta-first-mexican-born-woman-in-space--530055096c375537-a1d1-4e85-a143-dcd76fd0da3dMon, 19 Dec 2022 12:39:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWant to know what it’s like to go to outer space? Gather round the launch pad space cadets! Ioanna and I are treating you to another story from our favorite podcast sub sub sub category- space!! Earlier this year, Dr. Katya Echazarreta was the first...2020false486fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/p-o-s-h-chicago--530040279c591715-b81a-4134-9f7a-76cbe79c7a25Mon, 12 Dec 2022 12:07:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThe countdown to Christmas is on, which means it’s time to finish that last minute holiday shopping! As some of you know, Ioanna recently found an interest in antiquing and finding unique items for her home. This week’s guest is the perfect example of...2192false486fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/homesick-candles--53004542cdff4df7-9cb1-4a1f-867a-5e41e2409ecfMon, 05 Dec 2022 12:01:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIt’s last minute holiday shopping time y’all and we’ve got the perfect gift for you! This week we are featuring a brand we love who also offers the perfect holiday gifts. Founded in 2016, Homesick is a home fragrance and lifestyle brand with one...1335false485fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-original-rainbow-cone--530045379959ca76-4569-4f6b-b7a3-73ba45f4e9faMon, 28 Nov 2022 16:36:57 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis week, we’re getting the scoop- literally - on one of the nation’s favorite, most recognizable ice cream brands- The Original Rainbow Cone! Rainbow Cone is a Chicago-founded ice cream shop serving up ice cream, cakes, donuts, and more. Best known...1386false483fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/jeff-mauro-food-network-s-sandwich-king-owner-of-mauro-provisions--53004111ad389b1c-61b4-4a76-8a74-d72172733c58Mon, 21 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosHow does one become King of Sandwiches? Known by fans around the world and Aaron’s mom as “The Sandwich King”, Jeff Mauro is an Emmy-nominated celebrity chef who became known for destroying the competition with his consistently amazing sandwiches....2399false482fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/candace-nelson-founder-of-sprinkles-cupcakes--53004768125acdc8-c3ab-45a2-b57f-659ba14792ddMon, 14 Nov 2022 14:41:58 +0000Ioanna KekatosCandace Nelson is as iconic as her cupcakes! One of our favorite entrepreneurs out there, she founded Sprinkles Cupcakes in 2005. Considered the first cupcake bakery, the brand has been massively successful thanks to its beautiful cupcake designs,...1465false474fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-dandy-crown-x-black-lagoon-halloween-pop-up--53005420e7802c4c-a318-4d65-8937-3ce909c9edacMon, 24 Oct 2022 11:19:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosTo celebrate one of our favorite holidays this week, we’re fusing two of our favorite things- Halloween and cocktails!  We’re haunting your air pods and car speakers with the voice of Sarah Syman, Beverage Director and General Manager of The Dandy...1028false473fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/baker-bettie--530054934d7dc569-bf89-4528-b8a4-966e868f5e01Mon, 17 Oct 2022 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWe’re baking something sweet this week with Chicago’s very own, Baker Bettie! Kristin Hoffman is a trained chef, baking instructor, cookbook author, and the owner of Bettie’s Chicago! For the last 11 years she’s created educational content about...1560false472fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sydney-miller-founder-of-housework--53005530053e36a1-0961-4c77-abdd-8ee0ff59fbe4Mon, 03 Oct 2022 11:04:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis week we turn up the music and HIIT our way into all things fitness with Sydney Miller, Founder of HOUSEWORK®. HOUSEWORK® is “a full-body sculpting and conditioning workout set to the beat of house and electronic music. It's the perfect balance...1596false473fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/kristen-griffith-vanderyacht-renowned-florist-head-judge-of-netflix-s-the-big-flower-fight--53004853a632ff67-d257-4320-84cf-8ff8ba360f40Mon, 26 Sep 2022 11:25:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis week we are talking all things FLORAL and we are absolutely wildflower about our guest! Kristen Griffith-VanderYacht is a world-renowned florist and Head Judge of Netflix’s “The Big Flower Fight.” He’s also the owner and creative director of Wild...2464false472fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/highest-highs-to-lowest-lows--53004557142302a1-cd2a-4f47-bfb7-ba7c1a4b7aa1Mon, 19 Sep 2022 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWhy Aaron and Ioanna have been MIA? Listen to the full episode to find out!1234false471fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-husband-gameshow-how-do-you-say--530048912bc38295-d861-43f7-a58d-7aa25e4c89f7Mon, 12 Sep 2022 11:03:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosTo end our wedding series, we thought we’d have some fun with Aaron’s fiancé and Ioanna’s now HUSBAND! Since Michael is Canadian and Nathan is a teacher, we thought we’d put them to the test and see how they say______. Testing both pronunciation...2464false470fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/kennedy-bingham-gown-eyed-girl--5300555206117c81-2c81-41f6-aaa7-bc07063eab29Mon, 29 Aug 2022 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis week we’re diving in to all things FASHION, specifically bridal fashion, with fashion stylist, Kennedy Bingham! Also know as “Gown Eyed Girl”, she’s an influencer and stylist based in Los Angeles who left her job in finance on the hunt for an...1409false469fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/wedding-photographer-expert-sydney-marie-of-sydney-marie-co--5300477259fca94e-b205-454d-9d25-d9fdcdf59fceMon, 22 Aug 2022 11:58:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis week we’re diving into everything photography with this week’s guest, Sydney Marie! She is a photographer and wedding “expert behind the lens” of Sydney Marie Co. who has shot over 150 weddings. She celebrates the imperfect moments and finding...2028false469fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/suzanne-neville-uk-bridal-designer--53004825bd1f1236-9199-4e73-a4bd-e1cce965e82aMon, 15 Aug 2022 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis week we cross the pond and dive into all things BRIDAL DRESSES! Suzanne Neville is a British award winning fashion designers of evening wear, bridal gowns and couture wedding dresses with shops in London and Cheshire Manchester! Her gowns are...2464false467fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/katie-valleau-owner-ceo-of-tailored-tulle--53004575296dbc2c-c36e-4058-826d-847dc524aed4Tue, 09 Aug 2022 21:08:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThis week we are diving into all things VEILS with the owner and CEO of Tailored Tulle, Katie Valleau. Katie makes modern, intricate veils and accessories for the fashion forward bride. In this episode, we talk about the process behind her handmade...2464false466fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/jen-glantz-bridesmaid-for-hire--5300555506d0819e-f67d-418c-a2bd-2c1dc37cd878Mon, 01 Aug 2022 11:48:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThe wedding is over, but we’re not off our wedding kick yet! This week, we’re featuring Jen Glantz the founder of Bridesmaid for Hire, a 3x author, podcast host, and creator of The Newlywed Card Game & The First Years of Marriage Newsletter! The...2464false465fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/melissa-andre-celebrity-event-and-wedding-planner-chateau-innovator--530047975f8b3ac5-8d1d-45e6-aaeb-1f62fa9c66f1Mon, 25 Jul 2022 12:46:10 +0000Ioanna KekatosPop the champagne! Ioanna is MARRIED and as of this episode airing we are likely still dancing because Greek weddings go until 5:00am! In honor of Ioanna's wedding and because she is currently on her honeymoon, we continue our wedding series this...2004false464fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/olivia-landau-owner-ceo-of-the-clear-cut--530040753f1df5d1-b579-4624-ab9f-fa36013a3147Mon, 11 Jul 2022 12:44:55 +0000Ioanna KekatosShe shines bright like a diamond!In episode 2 of our wedding series, we’re diving into all things DIAMONDS with the owner and CEO of The Clear Cut, Olivia Landau. She’s a diamond expert, GIA Graduate Gemologist and 4th generation jeweler with...2464false463fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mayra-buenas-vibras-photography--5300409473245d52-99bc-45a1-bee5-e72f51839e7cMon, 04 Jul 2022 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWe are kicking off our bridal series with a local Chicago vendor who captures the most amazing moments during a wedding! Myra, also known as Buenas Vibras Photography on Instagram, pens herself as a photog “for tequila lovers wanting a stress-free...2464false464fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/caleb-marshall-the-fitness-marshall--53004120b2ec59d7-6e70-4a43-bbf8-9639ad878f9cMon, 27 Jun 2022 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosBooties at attention! Whether you’re a member of the Sip with Me Army or the Booty Army, do we have a guest for you! Nearing 4 million subscribers on YouTube and over 700 million views, Caleb Marshall is accomplishing so much for himself and changing...1987false463fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fire-and-flow-the-future-of-fitness-with-beachbody-super-trainers-jericho-mcmatthews-elise-joan--5300473779552816-02f6-4369-a3e7-8fea1c6bff49Mon, 13 Jun 2022 11:00:55 +0000Ioanna KekatosAs two long-time fitness professionals, Ioanna & Aaron know an innovative program when they see one. That’s why we sat down with internationally recognized Beachbody Super Trainers Jericho McMatthews and Elise Joan! Just like us, they are close...2446false462fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/jessica-hart-operations-controller-for-the-new-webb-space-telescope--530045445570ce8b-bfb1-4753-9439-815fbe0caa53Mon, 23 May 2022 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWe’re back with another episode where Ioanna & Aaron talk about their all time favorite thing- OUTER SPACE! What’s 13,800,000,000 years old? Why, the Universe of course! 2022 is a special year in this 13.8 billion year age because it’s the year...1279false461fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/jamie-greenberg-celebrity-makeup-artist-founder-of-jamiemakeup--53005560cc4212c0-8df5-45f8-94da-f21afa62d5dbMon, 09 May 2022 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosJamie Greenberg is a celebrity makeup artist and founder of her own business, JamieMakeup. Known for her iconic red carpet and natural beauty highlights, she works with Hollywood legends like Rashida Jones, Kaley Cuoco, and Chelsea Handler. A true...2016false460fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/excuse-my-grandma--53004080533c44f7-3083-4181-aa74-2737c5ddc1cdMon, 25 Apr 2022 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIf you’ve listened to the show before, you know Ioanna and I love to shoutout a good podcast, and we love to talk the tea about grandparents. This week we were thrilled to have Grandma Gail & Kim Murstein join us to discuss their epic show,...1874false459fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-quarantine-one--53004785c652a737-bd38-46c9-9fc9-71cb12b0108aThu, 21 Apr 2022 00:24:50 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn this minisode, Ioanna & Aaron share their experience getting horribly sick with covid-19 just two days apart from each other. From fever delirium to bone-chilling body aches, they experienced it all. Let their story serve as a warning that the...1591false458fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/invivo-wine-co-founder-tim-lightbourne-their-epic-sarah-jessica-parker-collab--530045105d5edac3-4608-4066-a8f1-57ef67b07071Mon, 04 Apr 2022 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosInvivo & Co was founded much in the same way our cocktail-podcast was back in 2020, by two best friends enjoying a drink (well, in our case we were making pancakes). Ioanna & Aaron’s favorite wine brand, Invivo, “makes wine our mates would...1893false457fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/alexa-swinton-actor-in-and-just-like-that--53004105a17c59d2-137b-43da-b044-dbdb2b293f9eMon, 21 Mar 2022 16:24:30 +0000Ioanna KekatosOur youngest guest ever, Alexa Swinton is “already making history”! One of our favorite young actors, Alexa has the talent, knowledge, and credits to do just about any project that comes up in her future. With strong or leading roles on our favorite...1387false456fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/emily-nejad-bon-vivant-cakes--5300407223cc1e8e-68b9-456b-8cfe-21513a7ae649Tue, 08 Mar 2022 00:37:21 +0000Ioanna KekatosKnown for her cutting edge cake designs and her joyful personality, Queen of Cakes Emily Nejad runs one of the most creative cake spots in the nation. She’s known for her wild designs and her trademark Shag Cake. In 2021, she pivoted from taking...2838false455fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/six-resources-the-crisis-in-ukraine--53004562a8c94e70-1035-46fd-9a2f-eb1ec1c8b9a3Mon, 28 Feb 2022 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn place of a weekly interview, Ioanna & I wanted to share the resources we are following to stay current and find truthful information related to Russia’s War on Ukraine. Visit the links below to find update-to-date event timelines, FAQ’s,...969false454fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/clare-mclaughlin-viral-tiktoker-interior-designer--5300411894e0eba2-f0e7-4bd3-8ebb-8bbd73b5d58eMon, 21 Feb 2022 13:07:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosPer her website, Clare is a content creator & interior designer living in Manhattan (yes, Ioanna & I are living for this already). Her mission in life is to make everything around her beautiful. By sharing her creative skills with the world,...1476false453fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/valentine-s-quiz-game-with-aaron-ioanna-s-fiance-s--530048786250d2e4-cfa8-4f57-a7ca-567ac57674d1Mon, 14 Feb 2022 15:08:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosDISCLAIMER: this episode was filmed on location. We recommend watching this episode rather than listening due to audio quality and the need to see our gorgeous fiancé’s! Watch our episode at the link below! Happy Valentine’s Day! Ioanna and Aaron...3276false452fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/vallery-lomas-author-winner-of-the-great-american-baking-show--5300406593f65fcf-7573-4b81-a239-29a942ebf383Mon, 07 Feb 2022 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosWhen life gives you lemons, make lemon curd. Vallery Lomas triumphed and won season 3 of the Great American Baking Show, the US version of the famous Great British Baking show. Following that accomplishment, she released her debut cookbook, “Life Is...1685false451fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mary-fitzgerald-star-of-netflix-s-selling-sunset--530039654a8acab1-247e-44ce-ad9f-c54891ad7931Mon, 31 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosMary Fitzergald leads the pack of LA’s hottest luxury brokerage team, The Oppenheim Group. With four seasons down and a fifth on the way, Netflix’s Selling Sunset catapulted the show’s leading ladies into the national spotlight. Multi-million dollar...1610false450fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/musician-morgan-st-jean--53004126dbe697d9-0563-472a-8e18-f47a3b1585f2Tue, 18 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosMorgan St. Jean is a LA-based singer-songwriter who has earned tens of millions of streams and rave reviews time-over-time. Her music ranges widely in the vibe it goes for, but what stays consistent is her powerful vocals and unique voice that could...1721false449fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ilana-dunn-host-of-seeing-other-people-podcast--53004150d29a3e03-0a38-4a87-a98e-d1d7d440c873Tue, 11 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIlana Dunn is the host of one of Aaron’s favorite podcasts “Seeing Other People” and was formerly the Face of Hinge and the host of Hinge’s Dating Sucks podcast – which debuted at #3 on the Apple Podcasts US Relationship charts. Ilana helps...2366false448fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/kat-stickler-tiktok-star--53004625a9ef043f-1d93-40e9-a867-24d0ce09a6edMon, 03 Jan 2022 12:08:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosAveragely funny & sorta relatable is how TikTok sensation Kat Stickler describes herself in her bio. At over 8.3 million followers on TikTok alone as of the New Year, Kat is doing something right- she is amazingly funny and extremely relatable!...1642false447fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/happy-new-year-from-ioanna-aaron--530041687ca47eb4-7940-4981-af6a-8797fe82b91bThu, 30 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosFor our final cocktail of the year, Marie from @mixwithmarie shares with us her favorite holiday cocktail creation, Holiday Medicine! Plus, a quick thank you from Aaron & Ioanna, and an introduction to our first guest of 2022!496false444fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/queen-of-christmas-jeanna-crawford-her-christmasers--53004192e24611d8-9480-40cd-9366-7b0a8e8c2424Mon, 20 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosMerry Christmas from the Queen of Christmas, not Mrs. Claus, but Jeanna Crawford. Jeanna is an award-winning seasoned designer and Christmas specialist with a long list of happy clients and “Christmasers” that are all treated like family. Based in...2233false442fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/cher-dawn-hubsher-tlc-s-smothered-the-chattermouth-podcast--5300484031399af4-47c2-4124-ad19-e75630f033b9Wed, 15 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosThe phrase "like mother, like daughter" resonates with both Ioanna and Aaron because they both take after their mom in some eerily similar ways. Cher & Dawn Hubsher are our TLC favorites! Stars of the hit show “sMothered”, Cher and Dawn joined...1680false443fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chicago-s-christkindlmarket--53004573708ea9d6-a734-4771-a1b5-1202a3b01095Mon, 06 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosHappy 25th birthday to Chicago’s Christkindlmarket. A tradition loved across the nation, this week’s episode is close to home for Ioanna and Aaron. Chicago’s Christkindlmarket began in 1996 as a way to promote bilateral trade between Germany and the...1134false442fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/amanda-yu-nguyen-barkuterie-boards--53004917a1573f35-179d-44e7-a272-ebfb7e404ef2Mon, 29 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosHumans have come to love charcuterie boards and grazing tables during the pandemic. But what about our furry friends? Well, Amanda came up with the perfect idea- CHARCUTERIE FOR DOGS! SO CUTE! Curating charcuterie boards for your dog, Amanda...2198false441fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tianna-gawlak-owner-of-the-bakery-box--53004121bab5b2c9-b509-4caf-993a-0f6b1ca24ed1Mon, 22 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosTianna Gawlak is a mother & baker in the suburbs of Chicago. Baking for her family inspired a series of entrepreneurial ventures, including her first children's picture book “When You Dream of Chocolate Cake” and her business, The Bakery Box. The...1470false440fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/caroline-ripa-viral-wedding-content-creator--53004948cfc19cda-6a2f-45b2-bce9-8a6ed07de6f3Mon, 15 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosCaroline Ripa is a viral wedding TikToker, blogger, freelancer, AND content creator! She came equipped to our interview with wedding tips for Ioanna and a delicious Olive Oil Chocolate Cake recipe. We chat with Caroline about her recent wedding and...2112false439fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/jake-draviczki-registered-dietitian--5300492015350329-6560-4b17-8628-acb13158ce19Mon, 08 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosJake Draviczki is a Registered Dietitian who creates easy to digest nutrition, fitness, and wellness content on Instagram and YouTube that has earned him a loyal and continuously growing fanbase. In light of ongoing stay-at-home habits and the...2668false438fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/andrea-o-bert-wedding-photographer--53004967dc2b0c9a-48dc-46d0-b232-798dcac23d8aTue, 02 Nov 2021 12:20:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosAndrea O’Bert is an Arizona-based wedding photographer with an eye for capturing the most beautiful moments between her clients. Her unique style, ability to frame masterfully, and the genuine rapport she builds with couples makes her one of our (and...1591false437fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/lisa-jacobs-founder-ceo-at-imagine-it-done--53004119d9c499b0-6a7a-492d-9603-4403ed9dbcbbMon, 25 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosLisa Jacobs is the founder and CEO of Imagine it Done, a business she founded in 2004 after discovering her innate ability to organize whatever chaos came her way. With a trained team of 12, Imagine it Done provides home organization services to...2861false436fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/carole-baskin-ceo-at-big-cat-rescue--53004989a725b41c-536a-455e-aec5-5161ae1eefeaMon, 18 Oct 2021 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosHey all you cool cats and kittens. This week’s guest needs no introduction. One of the most famous and viral folks to emerge from consumer pandemic habits, Carole became a globally recognized name after appearing on Netflix’s “Tiger King”. Beyond...1850false435fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/joanne-lee-molinaro-the-korean-vegan--53004199e6f0b432-70a9-43f6-82d7-510edc0781d9Mon, 11 Oct 2021 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosJoanne Lee Molinaro, known widely as “The Korean Vegan”, has always been a leader. A Lawyer, activist, runner, mentor, & viral TikToker, she’s done it all & more! With 3.5 million social fans and growing, she now has a best-selling cookbook!...2032false434fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fight-to-save-navy-pier-s-crystal-gardens--53004086bb5d9e44-0773-4f87-9f5b-da5167ec2111Thu, 30 Sep 2021 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn this special investigative episode, we speak with Celine Wysgalla, the Chicago resident who formed a now viral petition to save the Crystal Gardens, a free indoor botanical garden located on the famous Navy Pier. Plus, we discuss the muddied...2514false433fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/wedding-planner-designer-jove-meyer--53004900e28f16b8-dbcb-4571-bda3-e01b20e2a01eMon, 20 Sep 2021 11:08:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn episode 32, we get some help walking down the aisle from Wedding Planner Jove Meyer. Founder of Jove Meyer Events, Jove started his business after planning his best friend's wedding (how cute)! He is all about making your wedding personalized,...2424false432fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/restaurant-owner-iron-chef-winner-justin-sutherland--46586587
Classically trained in French cuisine, Justin “returned to his southern roots when he opened his own first restaurant, Handsome Hog, in St. Paul MN” and has since then opened several eateries with varying cuisines. On top of running these restaurants, Justin co-owns Hybrid Nation, a “socially-conscious streetwear and lifestyle brand” and
created an organization during the COVID-19 pandemic which helps support hospitality workers. I mean, what a freaking amazing guy!

Hear about his influences and motivations while we discuss his several restaurants and learn how hard the COVID-19 shutdowns were for his team and the community. Plus, find out what it was like to win Iron Chef and compete on one of our favorite shows, “Top Chef”. Last, we discussed his TruTv series “Fast Foodies” and found out what he likes to eat the most!]]>2e1203c7-2c43-446d-87dd-03be9842b094Tue, 14 Sep 2021 11:30:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn episode 31, Iron Chef winner, activist, & restaurant owner Justin Sutherland teaches us a thing or two about how to balance many hats while serving up some of the best eats in the nation. Classically trained in French cuisine, Justin “returned to...
Classically trained in French cuisine, Justin “returned to his southern roots when he opened his own first restaurant, Handsome Hog, in St. Paul MN” and has since then opened several eateries with varying cuisines. On top of running these restaurants, Justin co-owns Hybrid Nation, a “socially-conscious streetwear and lifestyle brand” and
created an organization during the COVID-19 pandemic which helps support hospitality workers. I mean, what a freaking amazing guy!

Hear about his influences and motivations while we discuss his several restaurants and learn how hard the COVID-19 shutdowns were for his team and the community. Plus, find out what it was like to win Iron Chef and compete on one of our favorite shows, “Top Chef”. Last, we discussed his TruTv series “Fast Foodies” and found out what he likes to eat the most!]]>1382falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/viral-portrait-photographer-david-suh--46586592
David is a photographer who “empowers women to re-connect with their inner Queen, give, permission to celebrate themselves and create beautiful portraits”. He’s gone viral on multiple platforms for his stunning portraits and helpful selfie tips, so we wanted to talk with him about his “why”.

First, we chat about his inspirations and how he came to view portraiture through a lens of empowerment and self-love. Then we discuss what a client shoot looks like from booking to completion. Last, we end the episode with some fun selfie tips and a riveting round of rapid fire.

His mega-famous pug Maya also makes an appearance!]]>c2e17358-3999-4f1e-a3a0-26d0978d3121Mon, 06 Sep 2021 11:50:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn episode 30, viral portrait photographer David Suh eats our self-doubts for breakfast and makes us look amazing while doing it. David is a photographer who “empowers women to re-connect with their inner Queen, give, permission to celebrate...
David is a photographer who “empowers women to re-connect with their inner Queen, give, permission to celebrate themselves and create beautiful portraits”. He’s gone viral on multiple platforms for his stunning portraits and helpful selfie tips, so we wanted to talk with him about his “why”.

First, we chat about his inspirations and how he came to view portraiture through a lens of empowerment and self-love. Then we discuss what a client shoot looks like from booking to completion. Last, we end the episode with some fun selfie tips and a riveting round of rapid fire.

His mega-famous pug Maya also makes an appearance!]]>2863falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/bachelor-contestant-business-owner-corinne-olympios--46586593
She rose to fame on season 21 with her infamous naps, but honestly she was just doing her. She made waves on her season and continues to capture the attention of folks all around the nation. She is a Founder of Aura Sugar Co, which has had pieces featured everywhere and worn by many of your fave celebs. The beaded jewelry is all gorgeous, handmade, and infused with aura cleansing properties. And let’s be real, beaded jewelry was literally THE thing of 2021... & she started it!

Corinne joins us to talk about the founding of her business (also a partnership with a bestie like our podcast) and we talk what makes her pieces so adored. Plus, we chat about what it was like on The Bachelor and how it can be difficult for people at all levels of culture to love themselves and stay genuine in a world of increasing pressures. Last, we of play a round of rapid fire and talk her favorite cocktail, The Dirty Martini (extra dirty)!]]>75874dca-ec71-4c81-aa03-3e3cb548c05aMon, 23 Aug 2021 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn episode 29, we give a rose to our favorite Bachelor contestant & business owner, Corinne Olympios. She rose to fame on season 21 with her infamous naps, but honestly she was just doing her. She made waves on her season and continues to capture...
She rose to fame on season 21 with her infamous naps, but honestly she was just doing her. She made waves on her season and continues to capture the attention of folks all around the nation. She is a Founder of Aura Sugar Co, which has had pieces featured everywhere and worn by many of your fave celebs. The beaded jewelry is all gorgeous, handmade, and infused with aura cleansing properties. And let’s be real, beaded jewelry was literally THE thing of 2021... & she started it!

Corinne joins us to talk about the founding of her business (also a partnership with a bestie like our podcast) and we talk what makes her pieces so adored. Plus, we chat about what it was like on The Bachelor and how it can be difficult for people at all levels of culture to love themselves and stay genuine in a world of increasing pressures. Last, we of play a round of rapid fire and talk her favorite cocktail, The Dirty Martini (extra dirty)!]]>1910falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/travel-expert-and-advisor-kendra-thornton--46586589
In episode 28, we jet off somewhere warm with travel expert Kendra Thornton. President and Owner of Royal Travel & Tours, trip planning is in her blood, literally in the form of her family business! The vast knowledge and experience she gained helping others book travel led to her becoming the nation’s recognized leader in travel advice and opinions.

She’s shared travel tips and trend analysis on dozens of national and local media broadcasts and is the go-to authority for travel advice, quoted frequently in major publications like Wall Street Journal and The New York Times. Kendra has worked in the industry nearly her whole career, with time spent at giant travel players like Orbitz.com and smaller groups like the Travel PR firm she founded.

She joins us to discuss all of the ways COVID-19 impacted the travel industry and could impact your travel plans this fall/winter. Plus, hear her personal travel tips & tricks for a good deal or a stress-free planning process. Kendra ends her time with us completing a round of rapid fire in which she shares what destinations are still on her bucket list!]]>acad43bc-798b-4153-a37d-338fb9a3db41Mon, 16 Aug 2021 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosTravel Expert and Advisor, Kendra Thornton In episode 28, we jet off somewhere warm with travel expert Kendra Thornton. President and Owner of Royal Travel & Tours, trip planning is in her blood, literally in the form of her family business! The...
In episode 28, we jet off somewhere warm with travel expert Kendra Thornton. President and Owner of Royal Travel & Tours, trip planning is in her blood, literally in the form of her family business! The vast knowledge and experience she gained helping others book travel led to her becoming the nation’s recognized leader in travel advice and opinions.

She’s shared travel tips and trend analysis on dozens of national and local media broadcasts and is the go-to authority for travel advice, quoted frequently in major publications like Wall Street Journal and The New York Times. Kendra has worked in the industry nearly her whole career, with time spent at giant travel players like Orbitz.com and smaller groups like the Travel PR firm she founded.

She joins us to discuss all of the ways COVID-19 impacted the travel industry and could impact your travel plans this fall/winter. Plus, hear her personal travel tips & tricks for a good deal or a stress-free planning process. Kendra ends her time with us completing a round of rapid fire in which she shares what destinations are still on her bucket list!]]>1848falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/harvard-smithsonian-astrophysicist-dr-jonathan-mcdowell--46586594
Ioanna & I have shared a love of space since the inception of our cosmic friendship, so we are honored that Jonathan joined us for a chat on our favorite subject!

Jonathan has worked for decades studying all things space, including black holes, x-rays, and lately a lot of falling space junk (ex: the falling Chinese rocket that captivated the world earlier this year). He is the go-to guy for press inquiries and information on space, leading to him creating “Jonathan’s Space Report” and his appearing in thousands of media and print pieces. We’re obsessed with his live tweets and he is the funniest scientist we have ever met!

Jonathan tells us about his work at the Chandra X-ray Center, why a giant rocket fell uncontrolled to earth this year, what’s really inside a black hole, and he shares with us his favorite non-alcoholic beverage of choice (which he sipped on during our interview), The Mango Lassi!]]>f330214b-84f3-494d-8a99-d97058d92932Mon, 09 Aug 2021 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn episode 27, we blast off to outer space with famed Harvard-Smithsonian Astrophysicist Dr. Jonathan McDowell. Ioanna & I have shared a love of space since the inception of our cosmic friendship, so we are honored that Jonathan joined us for a chat...
Ioanna & I have shared a love of space since the inception of our cosmic friendship, so we are honored that Jonathan joined us for a chat on our favorite subject!

Jonathan has worked for decades studying all things space, including black holes, x-rays, and lately a lot of falling space junk (ex: the falling Chinese rocket that captivated the world earlier this year). He is the go-to guy for press inquiries and information on space, leading to him creating “Jonathan’s Space Report” and his appearing in thousands of media and print pieces. We’re obsessed with his live tweets and he is the funniest scientist we have ever met!

Jonathan tells us about his work at the Chandra X-ray Center, why a giant rocket fell uncontrolled to earth this year, what’s really inside a black hole, and he shares with us his favorite non-alcoholic beverage of choice (which he sipped on during our interview), The Mango Lassi!]]>3232falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/rachel-dealto-relationship-expert-author--46586590
As Chief Dating Expert for Match and a featured expert appearing on Lifetime’s Married at First Sight and TLC’s Kate+Date, Rachel truly is the go-to person for anything related to your love life. She’s shared her advice on many national talk shows and has given several amazing Tedx Talks! We thought she had done it all, but now she’s coming out with a new book this September!

Our MUST READ for fall 2021, “
relatable: How to Connect with Anyone, Anywhere (Even If It Scares You)” is a book that needs to be in your shopping cart now! In our chat with Rachel, Ioanna & I get some tips on how to get along with our fiancés, learn about how the pandemic forever altered the dating scene, and discuss the new book. Whether you’re in love or “it’s complicated”, you’re sure to learn something useful in this week’s interview!]]>841a7d91-1ffa-4fc5-acdd-b5080d632281Tue, 27 Jul 2021 11:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosTo celebrate Ioanna’s recent engagement, we turn up the heat and talk love, relationships, and post-covid era dating trends with relationship expert and television personality Rachel DeAlto! As Chief Dating Expert for Match and a featured expert...
As Chief Dating Expert for Match and a featured expert appearing on Lifetime’s Married at First Sight and TLC’s Kate+Date, Rachel truly is the go-to person for anything related to your love life. She’s shared her advice on many national talk shows and has given several amazing Tedx Talks! We thought she had done it all, but now she’s coming out with a new book this September!

Our MUST READ for fall 2021, “
relatable: How to Connect with Anyone, Anywhere (Even If It Scares You)” is a book that needs to be in your shopping cart now! In our chat with Rachel, Ioanna & I get some tips on how to get along with our fiancés, learn about how the pandemic forever altered the dating scene, and discuss the new book. Whether you’re in love or “it’s complicated”, you’re sure to learn something useful in this week’s interview!]]>1332falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/max-miller-host-of-tasting-history--465865910190416a-f423-4e4b-9489-3b8baa711feeMon, 12 Jul 2021 10:48:44 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn episode 25, we take a bite out of food history with Max Miller, Host of ‘Tasting History’ on YouTube. At over 750,000 subscribers and tens of millions of views, he has mastered the art of delicious edutainment. One part history, one part food, and...2090falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ryan-and-geri-martha-o-hara-of-big-spoon-creamery--4402026127830af6-21ea-4aa9-84ae-e2c67235b31aMon, 08 Mar 2021 14:32:51 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn episode 6, we interview Ryan and Geri-Martha O'Hara of Birmingham’s Big Spoon Creamery! They share with us how they got started in ice cream, what their secret is, and talk the future of the creamery!1723falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/jamie-wolfer-of-jw-coordination--44020262abb9fa69-7b4e-4c8c-8af2-2c266cbf3feaMon, 01 Mar 2021 16:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn episode 5, we chat with Jamie Wolfer, Owner and Lead Planner at JW Coordination! She dishes out some wedding expertise and shares amazing tips on budget friendly planning! We also get to learn more about The Master Plan, a master class on wedding...1783falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/jessica-of-brooklyn-winery--44020264581750ca-88dc-4276-b819-0478db8b2d26Mon, 15 Feb 2021 16:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosGive us your finest bottle! As the General Manager of a winery located in the heart of New York, Jessica knows a thing or two about wine tasting and making. She’ll share with us how Brooklyn Winery got started in its peculiar urban location, all about...1792falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/suzie-of-nail-career-education--44020269504099de-3358-447b-8ebc-84ab6ffa1669Mon, 08 Feb 2021 16:00:00 +0000Ioanna KekatosJoin us for a conversation with Suzie, the talented nail educator & enthusiast behind Nail Career Education. She’ll share how she turned a passion and art into a brand that’s gotten her many loyal customers and has helped her reach 2.37 million...1950falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/season-4-supporting-small-businesses--44020274d3db0a75-0f5b-47f9-bd07-75a6d7b70d2bSun, 31 Jan 2021 19:09:38 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn this special introductory episode, we preview Season 4: Supporting Small Businesses. We also dive into how we got our first full-time jobs during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Plus, an update on the anti-mlm movement from Season 2!2886falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/s3-e5-true-crime-with-diane-fanning--440202722150532f-1735-4e8f-9ef7-8d8c65005392Mon, 30 Nov 2020 16:39:14 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn episode 5, we interview critically acclaimed author Diane Fanning, writer of 26 published books and a true leader of the community. She covers everything True Crime, has been a consultant for 48 hours, and has been featured on 20/20, the Today Show...2192falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/s3-e1-true-crime-presidential-election-predictions--44020266b7951827-3d97-4104-830a-9bed0c72e28dTue, 27 Oct 2020 01:52:17 +0000Ioanna KekatosIn episode one, we cover True Crime, the new layout of our podcast and even dive into our Presidential Election Predictions.3302falsefull