Julian arrived in the U.S. at two and a half with his parents and two sisters, each carrying a small bag and a single change of clothes. “We came here with nothing but the clothes on our back,” he says. Catholic Charities gave the family about $200 and a pat on the back: welcome to America. They landed in Miami, then moved to Chicago, settling in Northlake between Melrose Park and Elmhurst.

His father worked two full-time jobs for a decade, seventeen hours out of the house, while his mother worked too. Home was tight-knit and musical. Salsa spun on weekends. Disco filled the living room. “We get up every morning, hug, kiss each other,” Julian says. The soundtrack was family first, work second, music always.

Work started early. At eight, he delivered newspapers and ran a neighborhood snow-removal crew, paying friends five dollars on ten- and fifteen-dollar driveways. By 13 he was at McDonald’s; by 14 a busboy; and that same year, a DJ—thanks to a dream. “I had a dream…come up with a name,” he recalls. The name was Midnight Express. He borrowed two household record players, split speakers across the room, and learned the hard way that beatmatching isn’t turning volumes up and down.

He promoted as hard as he mixed. The first event was inside a Chinese restaurant on St. Charles Road. Flyers were quarter-sheet photocopies. Admission was five dollars. Two to three hundred kids showed. The lesson stuck: create the room, and people will come. He kept going—clubs, radio, concerts—staying visible through each new cycle of nightlife.

For Julian, the craft is not a gig. “DJing is my life…music is the gateway to my soul,” he says. That mindset is why he still moves crowds across generations. He doesn’t chase trends; he shows up, programs a feeling, and builds spaces where people connect.

Lockdown tested that resolve. On the first Saturday of the citywide shutdown, Julian turned on a livestream. It became a weekly ritual—Julian’s House Party—where birthdays got shouted out, families danced in living rooms, and kids discovered house classics with their parents. “We had at one point 1.3 million viewers worldwide,” he says. When people needed connection, he built a window and held it open.

Then he scaled the idea outdoors. Drive-in concerts filled the vast lot at SeatGeek Stadium with five to six hundred cars, ten-foot squares between them, concert sound and video walls up front, food trucks on site. They sold out five times, including a 39-degree New Year’s Eve with Stevie B, the Cover Girls, and the OutHere Brothers. “We were the only New Year’s Eve party in the entire country,” he says. Snow plows, masks, and house anthems; Chicago showed up.

Giving back runs in parallel. Through the Julian “Jumpin” Perez Foundation, his team has raised funds for coats, backpacks, and groceries. “Your neighbor could be the one that can’t feed the kids,” he says. Pride keeps people quiet; music lets help move quietly, quickly.

The habits behind the scenes are simple and strict. Julian doesn’t drink or smoke. He’s obsessive about learning; he holds licenses in real estate, mortgage brokerage, even private investigation. He builds with a small team he trusts. “You don’t want to be the smartest person in the room,” he says. “Keep them and hold them dear to you.”

His advice to anyone chasing a craft or a business is blunt. “If I can do it, you can do it,” he says. Don’t wait for permission. Don’t accept ceilings. “I dare you to tell me you can’t do that; watch me.” If you’re working 60–70 hours a week making someone else money, rethink your path. Invest in your own platform. As Julian puts it, “At the end of the day, you’re just a number. Build something of your own.”

Three moves stand out. First, create the room: pick a date, book a space—physical or digital—and host your audience. Second, program...

Elias Foster’s life is a testament to what can happen when passion meets purpose. Growing up in the South Suburbs of Chicago, Elias was always surrounded by music and creativity. From those early days tinkering with speakers with his brother to curating events that bring artists and entrepreneurs together, Elias has built a life centered on connection and opportunity.

After high school, Elias didn’t waste time following the traditional 9-to-5 path. Instead, he jumped straight into the business world, driven by a desire to help those around him break free from the confines of conventional jobs. His first venture was in music, hosting an open mic night that gave local artists a platform to perform, build content, and grow their brands. “I wanted to create something where artists could not only showcase their talent but leave with tools to grow,” Elias shared.

His focus on relationships has been the cornerstone of his success. Whether negotiating discounted venue rates or helping artists gain exposure through high-quality content, Elias has always prioritized genuine connections. “When people see that you’re moving with good intentions, they’re more likely to invest in your vision,” he explained. It’s this authenticity that has allowed him to collaborate with venue owners and build a network that supports his mission.

But it hasn’t always been easy. For Elias, one of the hardest lessons was learning to embrace discomfort and keep doors open for new opportunities. “Being comfortable in uncomfortable situations is key,” he said. It’s advice that resonates with anyone striving to grow, reminding you that success often lies just beyond your comfort zone.

Elias credits his ability to focus as one of his greatest strengths. “Focus on one thing at a time,” he advised. “Establish that, and then move on to the next.” This mindset has helped him balance multiple ventures, from curating events to developing an app designed to connect entrepreneurs and creatives. By staying laser-focused on one project at a time, Elias ensures that each effort receives the attention it deserves.

His vision for his app, Rich Minds, is equally ambitious. Built as a private, invite-only platform, it serves as a hub for like-minded creatives and business owners. “It’s about creating a space where everyone can thrive together,” Elias explained. The app will soon expand to include features like service booking, connecting professionals from various fields, and even launching an integrated community marketplace.

At the heart of everything Elias does is a commitment to quality. Whether it’s the artists he supports or the events he organizes, he believes that excellence speaks for itself. “Whatever you present, make sure it’s the best,” he said. It’s advice that applies not only to artists but to anyone striving to make an impact.

Elias is also passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of business. For those planning their first event, his advice is straightforward: “Start with a budget and focus on the essentials. If you’re missing resources, don’t hesitate to reach out to someone who can help.” It’s a reminder that collaboration often leads to greater success.

Looking ahead, Elias is focused on building a community of genuine, like-minded individuals who share his vision for positive impact. “I want to create a safe space for people in business to thrive and support one another,” he said. It’s a goal that reflects his deep belief in the power of community and connection.

Elias Foster’s story is one of purpose, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to helping others succeed. Whether you’re an artist, an entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to make a difference, his journey offers valuable insights into what it takes to turn a vision into reality.

Alexis Warnick is a force of nature—a lifestyle influencer and model development coach who’s reshaped not only her own life but also those around her. From her early days in a small town in Pennsylvania to building a vibrant life in Chicago, Alexis has proven that transformation begins with courage and compassion.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, Alexis grew up surrounded by mountains and close-knit communities. But when her mother moved to Chicago for work, Alexis followed in 2005, stepping into a world that was bigger, faster, and more diverse than anything she’d known. She described it as a "culture shock," but one that opened her eyes to the opportunities a bustling city like Chicago had to offer.

As someone deeply involved in model development and content creation, Alexis exudes confidence. But she’s quick to remind you that confidence isn’t something she was born with—it’s something she built. “Being in front of the camera was a comfort zone I created,” she shares. “It pushes me out of my shell, even though I’m naturally an introvert.”

One of Alexis’s defining moments came in 2016 when she made the bold decision to shave her head. It wasn’t driven by societal pressures or a need to conform—it was a declaration of self. “Your hair carries a lot of what you’ve been through,” she explains. Cutting it all off was her way of shedding the past and stepping into her true self. “If I can walk out bald with no hair, you have no choice but to see me for me.”

This boldness isn’t just for show—it’s a lesson she passes on to her daughter and to the young people she works with in Chicago Public Schools. During the pandemic, Alexis began working as a special education classroom assistant. The role taught her patience, empathy, and how to truly connect with children who face unique challenges. “Sometimes, I’m the outlet these kids don’t have at home,” she says. “It taught me that everyone’s complexity is their strength.”

Her work with students, especially those with autism or emotional challenges, has shaped how she approaches life. She encourages people to ask questions, to look beyond what they think they see. “We lack empathy because we see people as they’re perceived, not as they are,” she says. “The littlest thing you can do for someone can be the biggest thing for them.”

Alexis’s strength also comes from her experiences as a young mother. She had her daughter at 19, while in college, and refused to let motherhood derail her ambitions. “Being pregnant doesn’t mean stop,” she asserts. “I wanted my daughter to see me succeed so she’d know she can, too.” That determination led her to finish her degree, setting an example of resilience and perseverance.

Her advice to anyone facing setbacks? “Your setbacks are setups for comebacks,” she says. “Take the time to reflect and come back stronger. Life’s challenges aren’t roadblocks; they’re detours to something better.”

What’s most striking about Alexis is her ability to turn her struggles into wisdom for others. Whether it’s encouraging someone to take a leap of faith or reminding them to show compassion, Alexis is a living example of how courage and kindness can change lives. She sums it up beautifully: “We’re sometimes the fuel others need to get through the day.”

Alexis’s story is a testament to the power of authenticity and the ripple effect of compassion. She shows us that confidence isn’t about perfection—it’s about embracing who you are and using that to lift others.

Omaima Doghmi's story is proof that success often comes when you lean into your passions, silence self-doubt, and simply get started. Born and raised in Chicago, Omaima’s Moroccan heritage and engineering background are just parts of a life that has evolved through grit, creativity, and a touch of bravery. From her roots as a competitive gymnast to becoming a rising star in the influencer space, Omaima embodies the idea that hard work and self-expression can coexist in powerful ways.

As a child, Omaima found joy in creativity, whether it was watching YouTube videos of makeup tutorials or imagining herself sharing her own routines. “I’d recreate those videos as a kid, but never posted them,” she shares. Life, school, and gymnastics consumed much of her energy. It wasn’t until graduating from Boston University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and entering the tech world during COVID that she realized something was missing.

“The routine was just too routine-y,” she admits. “I started thinking, ‘What can I focus on that actually makes me happy?’” For Omaima, the answer lay in revisiting that younger self who loved creating content and connecting with others.

Her foray into content creation began with uncertainty. Sharing her first “Get Ready With Me” video felt awkward, even “cringe,” as she put it. “I remember sending it to my sister and asking, ‘Is this corny?’ She said, ‘Be cringe. Just post it.’” That single post garnered 500,000 views, validating her belief that embracing discomfort is often the gateway to growth.

Omaima is clear-eyed about the reality of her success: “Content creation is a full-time job. You have to dream about it, think about what your future self would do, and then take those steps today.” This mindset propelled her from zero to 100,000 followers in just six months. But beyond the numbers, Omaima’s authenticity resonates deeply with her audience, especially as a Moroccan-American navigating two worlds.

One of her pivotal moments was discovering a Moroccan vlogger who inspired her to embrace her cultural identity within her content. “I thought, ‘Why don’t I become the first Moroccan content creator in the U.S. who shares my life in Darija?’” Despite initial language challenges, Omaima learned to read and write Arabic in three months, proving once again that dedication conquers doubt.

Her advice for aspiring creators? “Act like you’re already there. Speak to your audience as if they’re a million people, even if it’s just one person today. Consistency is key. Post daily, experiment, and don’t overthink it. Be cringe, and just do it.”

Omaima also emphasizes the importance of staying true to your values. Whether it’s declining collaborations that don’t align with her principles or refusing to fit into stereotypical molds, she firmly believes that authenticity is the most sustainable path to success.

Now based in Los Angeles, Omaima still carries her Chicago roots wherever she goes. “I’ll never change who I am at my core,” she says. “Family comes first, and I’ll always stay grounded in who I am.”

With a talent management contract on the horizon and her content continuing to inspire, Omaima’s journey is far from over. But her message is clear: Whether it’s learning a new skill, starting from scratch, or overcoming fear, success starts with small, intentional actions. “Think long-term and take every experience—good or bad—as an opportunity to grow.”

Through her unique voice and commitment to her craft, Omaima Doghmi is proving that success is about more than numbers—it’s about creating a life that feels both meaningful and true.

When Fritz Kaegi reflects on his journey, it’s clear that his path was shaped by a unique combination of global experience, deep community ties, and a passion for solving complex problems. As the Cook County Assessor, Fritz oversees one of the most intricate property tax systems in the nation, affecting 5.3 million residents and nearly two million properties. Yet, his story is more than one of bureaucracy—it’s a testament to how personal experiences and professional expertise can converge to create meaningful change.

Fritz’s roots in Hyde Park instilled a love for community early on. “I grew up in an area with a mix of people from different backgrounds. That environment shaped how I approach challenges today,” he shared. It wasn’t just his upbringing but also watching friends struggle during the 2008 housing crisis that pushed him toward public service. He saw firsthand how property tax inequities compounded financial hardships for homeowners and decided he had to act.

Before stepping into the public eye, Fritz spent over two decades as a global investor. This role honed his ability to assess value, manage risk, and think critically under pressure. Yet, it left him yearning to make a more localized impact. “I’d traveled the world and worked with incredible companies, but I couldn’t ignore the problems in my own backyard,” he explained. His decision to enter public service wasn’t just a career shift; it was a commitment to his community.

Under Fritz’s leadership, the Assessor’s Office has undergone a dramatic transformation. Historically, the office was notorious for favoritism, inefficiency, and mistrust. Fritz set out to change that by introducing transparency and equity. “When I came in, no one knew where the numbers were coming from,” he said. Today, his team publishes detailed data on how properties are assessed, making information accessible and clear to everyone.

Fritz’s approach to leadership is rooted in the idea of being “useful.” He believes this principle applies across industries, whether in private finance or public service. “You want to be doing something that needs to be done, that others aren’t already doing,” he said. His office has implemented data-driven models to eliminate disparities that disproportionately affected low-income homeowners, leading to reduced tax bills for many.

One of Fritz’s proudest accomplishments is reducing inequities in property assessments. His team’s efforts have saved residents in areas like West Garfield Park thousands of dollars annually. “Imagine what it means for a family’s wealth when their tax burden decreases, and their home value rises,” he said. These changes reflect his commitment to addressing systemic issues with long-term solutions.

Balancing such a massive operation requires a talented and diverse team. From real estate experts to data scientists, Fritz has built a workforce capable of tackling the county’s varied challenges. He credits their expertise and collaboration for much of the office’s progress. “We bring people together from different backgrounds to make the system work for everyone,” he noted.

Beyond the office, Fritz finds joy in connecting with residents. Whether at town halls or community events, he sees these interactions as vital to understanding the public’s needs. “People want to know that you’re working for them, not just behind a desk,” he said. It’s this human connection that fuels his passion for the role.

Despite the demands of his position, Fritz values downtime with his family. Whether reading biographies or traveling, he prioritizes moments that recharge him. “My family keeps me grounded, and reading helps me gain perspective,” he said. His recent trip to Indonesia, where he snorkeled over coral reefs, was a vivid reminder of the world’s beauty and the importance of taking time to reflect.

Fritz’s

In the heart of Chicago, Brad Tietz has dedicated his career to understanding the intricate workings of government, policy, and business relations. As the Vice President of Government Relations and Strategy at the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, Brad’s insight into the city’s business ecosystem is both wide-ranging and deeply impactful. For over 15 years, he’s helped shape policies that aim to enhance Chicago’s economy while balancing the practical realities of politics.

Brad’s story begins with a foundation rooted in community values. He studied political science at Illinois Wesleyan University, an experience that sparked his interest in local governance. Brad credits these early years with helping him hone a simple but powerful principle in his career: “Work hard, know your stuff, and be good to people.” This advice, passed down by a seasoned lobbyist, has been Brad’s guiding mantra. In a field often marked by high stakes and complex dynamics, Brad emphasizes the importance of respect and transparency, even when advocating for difficult policies.

Early in his career, Brad served as a legislative analyst, a position that introduced him to high-profile issues within Illinois’s House of Representatives. This role required him to dissect legislation, evaluate stakeholders, and understand both the promises and potential pitfalls of each bill. Brad describes these years as challenging yet foundational, as they offered a front-row seat to the legislative processes that would later shape his approach to advocacy.

Today, Brad’s work at the Chicagoland Chamber spans initiatives in economic development, workforce growth, and strategic policy advocacy. His influence is evident in initiatives such as the Illinois Data Center Tax Incentive. Originally a niche sector, data centers have since seen exponential growth, catapulting Illinois to second in the nation for data center development. This progress was no accident; it was a result of years of collaboration between Brad, industry leaders, and legislators who recognized the sector’s potential. “Data centers started with just a 1% growth rate before the incentive,” Brad says. “Now, we’re seeing over 20% growth.”

Economic growth, however, is not Brad’s sole focus. Workforce development, especially in underserved communities, is central to his mission. Recently, he worked to secure funding for community college programs tailored to the data center industry, creating pathways to high-paying jobs without a traditional four-year degree. These roles often pay well over $100,000, a major economic boost for residents who previously had limited access to such opportunities. This approach embodies Brad’s belief that economic policies should benefit every part of the community, fostering a sustainable model for local growth.

Brad also recognizes the importance of diversifying Chicago’s industry base. He’s championed initiatives in clean energy, life sciences, and film, all of which offer substantial job creation potential. One standout achievement has been the expansion of the film tax credit, which has reinvigorated Chicago as a sought-after production hub. As he explains, “Partnering with industry and labor organizations, we developed a fund that helps train residents from the South and West Sides in film production.” This program provides participants with skills for an industry where starting salaries often exceed $80,000.

Looking forward, Brad sees housing and childcare as two critical areas that Chicago must address to support economic resilience. Both issues directly impact workforce availability, and in Brad’s view, they are integral to attracting major investments, like the proposed $20 billion quantum computing campus. With an eye on the future, Brad is working to ensure that Chicago’s infrastructure can accommodate these next-generation industries.

When asked how he has sustained his drive over the years, Brad credits his early morning...

Kendra Cowart’s story is one of those rare, layered tales that invites you to question what you think you know about the so-called “right path” in life. Kendra’s journey began in the western suburbs of Chicago, where, despite an upbringing she describes as privileged, she never quite felt like she fit in. Struggling to connect with the people around her, she constantly felt a need to explore life beyond the surface-level ambitions that others seemed content with. For Kendra, life’s rejections and obstacles weren’t just hurdles to overcome—they were turning points that ultimately led her to a more fulfilling life.

At 21, Kendra met a mentor who changed her perspective on what life could be. This mentor didn’t just provide career advice or life tips; she asked Kendra a fundamental question, one that would shape her entire approach to life: “How are people experiencing you?” This question opened up an avenue of self-reflection that many of us don’t explore until much later in life, if at all. Kendra realized she was seeking validation in the wrong places and needed to understand herself first to make meaningful connections with others. This wasn’t about changing her personality but about recognizing her strengths and focusing on where she could grow.

Despite her eventual focus on coaching, Kendra’s path was anything but linear. She enrolled at the University of Missouri (Mizzou), hoping to find her “tribe,” but her expectations were met with more isolation. Mizzou, she found, wasn’t the dream college experience she’d hoped for. But this setback only fueled her to look inward. Watching others seemingly glide through life while she struggled, Kendra yearned for a community that shared her drive and curiosity. Her search would eventually lead her to the world of network marketing, a turning point that shifted her focus to personal development.

Network marketing introduced Kendra to a world of personal growth seminars and self-help books, a journey that would expose her to people living the life she envisioned. She credits this period as a “blessing in disguise”—one that equipped her with tools to face life’s challenges head-on. Through workshops, seminars, and a budding interest in personal development, Kendra began to see the true value of self-improvement. For her, these experiences highlighted the importance of mindset, a perspective she now brings into her own coaching.

Today, Kendra is a full-time coach, working with the Life Score Foundation on the South Side of Chicago, a wellness resource center focused on social and emotional learning, workforce development, and financial literacy. She describes her role not just as a job but as a calling. Working with Life Score allows her to bring the same transformative tools that shaped her life to others in her community. In Kendra’s words, she’s there to be “the spark plug,” igniting potential in people who may not yet see it in themselves.

Kendra’s story is also one of resilience in the face of societal expectations. As a Black woman, she’s seen how people often view her through a specific lens, one that doesn’t always align with her experiences or ambitions. She’s driven by a desire to dismantle stereotypes and build bridges between communities, bringing a holistic wellness approach to spaces that might otherwise focus only on the bottom line.

Through her coaching, Kendra helps clients recognize that setbacks and rejections aren’t just unfortunate events to get over. “It’s all protection,” she says, emphasizing that everything that happens—whether it’s people walking away or situations not working out—is ultimately for your highest good. She believes this mindset has allowed her to navigate life’s challenges with a sense of peace, knowing that every rejection has, in fact, redirected her toward something better.

For those struggling to find their footing, Kendra’s approach is refreshing. She encourages you to embrace the unknown and to

In the heart of Chicago, Julio Bañales took a leap of faith that not many would. Opening his dog grooming business, Mouse House, in the South Loop wasn’t just a professional move; it was a deeply personal decision born out of love, loss, and a desire to make a difference. After years of working for big companies like PetSmart and local family-run businesses, Julio realized that his passion went beyond the grooming table. It was about creating a space where animals could feel loved, and owners could trust that their pets were getting the best care possible.

When COVID hit, the world shifted for Julio, like it did for so many. He had been working steadily, but the pandemic made him rethink his priorities. The loss of his beloved dog, Maui, served as a wake-up call. "It made me realize, life is short," Julio says, reflecting on that time. It wasn’t that he disliked his job at Chrysler’s; it just wasn’t fulfilling him in the way he needed. The loss of Maui inspired Julio to open Mouse House in honor of his dog. "If we hadn’t found the location that we did, I don’t know if Mouse House would even be here," he admits. But once the doors opened, there was no turning back.

Julio’s approach to dog grooming goes far beyond the basics. For him, it’s not just about cutting fur or cleaning paws; it’s about love. "We promise to love your animal the way you do," he shares. Julio’s philosophy is centered on comfort over vanity. If a dog’s coat is matted, it’s not about maintaining a specific look; it’s about ensuring the pet’s well-being. This functional approach is what sets Mouse House apart from other groomers in the city. Julio wants each dog to feel like they're in a safe, loving space, and that’s why he’s built an environment where animals can be animals.

Decorating the space has been another labor of love for Julio. Every season, Mouse House is transformed with new themes, bringing warmth and personality into the shop. From festive blankets to seasonal decor, Julio creates an atmosphere that clients—both pets and humans—appreciate. “People love to see the decorations,” he says, and it’s clear that this attention to detail extends to every aspect of his business.

One of the hardest parts of Julio’s work is dealing with senior dogs or pets who are a little more skittish. "I like to do meet and greets," he explains, noting that some dogs come in with nervous energy, especially if they’ve had bad experiences at other groomers. "We try to eliminate every stress factor," he says, describing how he adjusts the environment to make each pet as comfortable as possible. The open, kennel-free setup at Mouse House helps dogs feel less confined and more at ease.

Over the years, Julio has built a team that shares his passion. Working alongside his wife, Lisa, and his growing team of groomers, Mouse House has become more than just a business—it’s a family. "It’s a growing family," Julio says, adding that their camaraderie extends to the dogs they care for. "The dogs feed off the environment," he shares, emphasizing how much the energy in the room affects the animals' experience.

When it comes to running his business, Julio admits he didn’t have all the answers at first. But that didn’t stop him. "There’s no better time than now," he advises anyone considering starting their own venture. Julio dove into entrepreneurship with heart, learning as he went. He didn’t wait for the perfect business plan or website. Instead, he trusted his instincts, leaned into his passion, and let social media do the talking. "Instagram has been a big help," he says, noting that his humorous posts and behind-the-scenes videos have helped build a loyal following.

For anyone thinking about jumping into their passion, Julio offers this advice: "Don’t go into it with a money mindset. Go into it with love, and everything will fall into place." It’s that love that has...