Always Andersonville: The Podcast

The 200th episode of Always Andersonville: The Podcast brings together 40th Ward Alderperson Andre Vasquez, 47th Ward Alderperson Matt Martin, and 48th Ward Alderperson Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth for a wide-ranging conversation about the issues shaping Andersonville and Chicago. Guest hosted by Dena Jo Pavlovic from ENJOY, the episode explores everything from neighborhood development, affordable housi...

On this episode Matt is joined by Mia Sakai, owner of  Ándale Market and Amie Kesler, owner of  Carolyn’s Krisps . Ándale Market is a curated bodega for goods on the go, located at 5232 N Clark in Andersonville and 725 W Wrightwood in Lincoln Park. Carolyn's Krisps is the gluten-free, vegan, and 100% ridiculously delicious cookie-cracker, which can be found on the shelves at both Ándale Market loc...

Today we're joined by Riz Galani and Dennis Tuttle of RG/Allure Group , a Chicago real estate team known for their personalized approach, local expertise, and commitment to helping clients navigate one of life's biggest decisions. With years of experience in Chicago's ever-changing housing market, Riz and Dennis have built a reputation for putting relationships first and delivering exceptional res...

On this episode of the podcast, Laura chatted with Rachel Travis, owner of Local Pastures , to learn more about her mission to connect communities with locally sourced, sustainably raised food. Rachel shares the story behind Local Pastures, the importance of supporting regional farmers and producers, and how thoughtful food choices can strengthen local economies while creating a more resilient foo...

On this episode of the podcast, CJ and Amelia chatted with Jessica Mutsch,  owner of Remedy Laser Therapy  at 5347 N Clark #2. Remedy Laser Therapy uses a non-invasive, low level laser to reduce inflammation, promote wound healing, manage pain, and improve skin health. Jessica holds a Master's Degree and has worked as a psychotherapist for more than a decade. After experiencing life‑changing resul...

Today on the podcast, we are joined by Nandita Goswami and David Rosetti, stewards of  Aville Grows , the new community garden in Andersonville located at 5339 N Ashland and 5347 N Ashland.  Located in the heart of the neighborhood, this shared green space provides residents with the opportunity to grow their own food, learn about urban gardening, and participate in the stewardship of a more resil...

Today on the podcast, we’re joined by Luke Aronson and Mitch Migliore, the new owners of Vincent, located at 1475 W Balmoral. With more than a decade of experience in Andersonville, Luke and Mitch share what it means to step into a beloved neighborhood spot and how they’re building on Vincent’s legacy as a true community gathering place. They talk about their vision for the future, their approach...

Today, we are joined by members of the Neo-Futurists, the experimental theater company that has been creating bold, original performances in Chicago since 1988. Their signature show, The Infinite Wrench, is a fast-paced, ever-changing production made up of 30 plays in 60 minutes, with the audience deciding the order of what happens on stage. It is unpredictable, personal, often hilarious, and unli...

Today, we are joined by Karen Carney, Head of School at Chicago Friends School , along with students Violet and Imogen. Chicago Friends School, located at 1315 W Berwyn, is a K–8 independent school grounded in Quaker values: simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equity, and stewardship. Those aren’t just words on a wall. They shape how students learn, how teachers teach, and how the entire comm...

Today we are joined by Brian Mamassian and Tyler Leasher, co-owners of Cowboys and Astronauts, Andersonville’s independent lifestyle and gift shop. Founded in 2017 and relaunched in 2025, the shop offers a curated mix of apparel, accessories, home décor, and gifts blending rugged grit with cosmic imagination, a welcoming hub for the community known for its warm hospitality, thoughtful curation, an...

7th District Senator Mike Simmons has been a champion of our community since first taking office in 2021. Senator Simmons made history as the first openly gay member of the Illinois Senate and the first person of color to represent his district. He’s a dedicated advocate for equity, housing, and public health, working to uplift communities and ensure every voice is heard in state government. We're...

This week, we're joined by Brandon Mensing. Owner and head donut fryer at Andersonville’s newest donut business, The Good One who is also our lead sponsor for Taste of Andersonville on Wednesday, August 6 and a stop on the Nosh Route. Brandon Mensing, Andersonville resident, a queer Midwesterner born just south of Chicago, spent nearly two decades wrangling start-ups before deciding life is better...

A particularly exciting episode. We're joined by multi-talented performer Anthony Rapp who will be performing at Midsommarfest this year on Sunday, June 15 on our Summerdale Stage. Anthony hardly needs an introduction with a decades long performance career across stage, screen, music, and even a couple of video games. A Chicago native, Anthony, his husband, and kids have recently joined our great...

In this episode, we’re exploring the world of pop-ups as Andersonville’s InSidewalk Sale returns, bringing deals indoors and debuting the first InSidewalk Sale pop-up market at 5117 N Clark, with over a dozen vendors showcasing their creative products from jewelry to florals, pet supplies to soaps and more. Joining us are Dave from Printed Curiosities , Ben & Jesse of Floriography Fellows , an...

This week, we are joined by Hannah Wilson, owner of Andersonville’s new yarn hobby store, The Dropped Stitch ! The Dropped Stitch is Andersonville’s newest destination for knitters, crocheters, and embroiderers, offering a vibrant selection of yarns, needles, and crafting kits. Owned by Hannah Wilson, a passionate crafter and “Jeopardy!” champion, this LGBTQ+-owned shop features natural fiber yarn...

This week, I am joined by internationally acclaimed magician David Parr and Joey Cranford, CEO, Founder, and co - owner of Chicago Magic Lounge . David Parr is an internationally acclaimed magician known for fooling Penn & Teller on Fool Us and creating Chicago’s longest-running weekly magic show. His theatrical style and expertise have earned him widespread recognition. David’s show, Cabinet...

This week, I'm joined by Janine Ramirez and Mike Waszkowski, owners of  Rivers & Roads Cafe . Chicagoans Janine and Mike share a passion for adventure, food, and community. Janine, raised in a Puerto Rican household, discovered her culinary passion early, while Mike's adventurous spirit led him to rugby and philosophy. After a stint in LA, they returned to Chicago to realize their dream of cre...

You know them, you love them, but what's their story?! This week, I am joined by one of Chicago’s favorite premier bands, Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute! Established in 2004, Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute is celebrating its 20th year of bringing ABBA's joy to audiences in Chicagoland and across the U.S. Founded by Nicky von Kondrat and Julie Brock, the band's inception was sparked by a chance encou...

This week, I am joined by Phil McFarland, General manger of THC beverages Wherehouse Beverage Co producer and distributor of our Midsommarfest THC beverage sponsor, WYNK seltzer. Phil is a seasoned sales, marketing, and hospitality executive with 25 years of experience. Formerly VP at Canopy Growth, he spearheaded strategic transitions and launched over 115 products. Phil comes with significant ex...

This week, we are joined by Andy Johnston, owner of Andy’s Art, Antique’s, & Oddities. Andy’s Art, Antiques & Oddities was born from the cherished memories of Andy's late mother, Billie, a kindred spirit in the love for art, décor, and unique finds. Inspired by their global adventures and Billie's knack for discovering the extraordinary, Andy decided to pursue entrepreneurship, guided by c...

This week, we are joined by owner Chef Rich Wang and manager X Wang, of Andersonville’s newest restaurant, Minyoli , opening at 5420 N Clark Street. Mínyólǐ (meen yo lee), inspired by Chef Rich’s Taipei childhood, embodies the essence of traditional Taiwanese juàncūn (jyuwen tswin) cuisine. Originating from villages built for military dependents, these communities fostered a rich fusion of Chinese...

This week, we are joined by Silas Leslie. Silas (they/them) serves as  Hire Trans Now  Coordinator, Trainer, and Data Analyst at  Chicago Therapy Collective . Silas provides free training & education built around actionable & accessible best practices to small businesses (many of which are in Andersonville). As a biracial, queer, trans, and neurodivergent person, Silas is deeply committed...

This week, we are joined by Eddy Ocampo. Founder and Owner of Skin Care For Gents and of the upcoming new addition to Andersonville, Apothecary EO . Eddy, an Andersonville native and seasoned dancer turned skincare expert, brings over a decade of experience in the beauty industry. As a licensed esthetician and laser technician, he has worked with top skincare brands like Image Skincare and PCA Ski...

We're excited to present this special episode discussing the state of drag in Chicago and the country. Drag is important for its role in artistic expression, challenging gender norms, fostering inclusivity, serving as a platform for activism, providing safe spaces, offering entertainment and contributing to the cultural and historical fabric of society.  It continues to be a dynamic and evolving f...

This is our final episode in our series for our Say Hej campaign in January Health & Wellness month. In each episode, we’ve spoken with local experts on different aspects of health and wellness, correct some common misconceptions, and offer some insight and resources for achieving your own state of wellness in the new year. This week, I am joined by experts from Family Matters Therapy . Founde...