Carmen Rossi's journey from the small town of Frankfort to becoming a notable figure in Chicago's hospitality and entrepreneurial landscape is a tale of passion, resilience, and community spirit. As Nick DeGregorio sat down with Carmen, it became evident that Carmen's success isn't just measured by his business ventures but also by his commitment to giving back to the community.

Born and raised in Frankfort, Illinois, Carmen reminisced about his upbringing in a town where community and involvement were key. His father's role as mayor instilled in him a sense of public service and civic duty. Carmen's high school years were marked by an active participation in various activities, which he credits as foundational in shaping his entrepreneurial spirit.

Carmen’s time at the University of Illinois was a pivotal period where he began experimenting with business ideas. From dormitory loft businesses to a spring break travel service, his college days were filled with ventures that not only honed his business acumen but also taught him the invaluable lesson of failure. "Experiencing failure early on gave me the courage to take on bigger risks later," Carmen shared, emphasizing the importance of resilience.

One of the key themes Carmen discussed was the concept of humility and asking for help. "Humility is a special quality, but it's not one you should hide," he advised. This openness to learning from others has been a cornerstone of his approach, allowing him to navigate various industries, including hospitality, law, and even cannabis.

Carmen's current focus, 8 Hospitality, is a testament to his belief in the power of community and culture in business. He attributes the success of his ventures not merely to sound business strategies but to the people who make up his teams. "It's the people that make the business," he said. Carmen’s leadership style is inclusive and empowering, fostering an environment where talent can thrive. He looks for individuals who not only fit the job description but also bring a unique energy and perspective to the team.

A significant part of Carmen's ethos is giving back to the community. Whether it's through providing jobs, supporting local organizations, or mentoring young professionals, he sees it as a duty to contribute positively to the city that has given him so much. "Chicago has given me everything. I owe everything to this city," he declared with palpable pride.

Carmen's story is not just one of business success but also of personal growth. He reflected on the impact of losing his mother, a pivotal figure in his life, and how it shaped his outlook. "Losing my mom was like losing my biggest supporter," he confessed. This loss, however, only deepened his resolve to live a life that honors the values she instilled in him: positivity, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of growth.

As the conversation wrapped up, Carmen offered advice to those facing challenges, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the positive and learning from every experience. "Wear your mistakes," he advised. "By fundamentally understanding them, you learn and grow."

In a city often portrayed negatively in the media, Carmen Rossi stands out as a beacon of positivity and resilience. His story serves as an inspiration, not just for budding entrepreneurs but for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their community. Whether he's managing one of his restaurants or mentoring the next generation of leaders, Carmen's focus remains clear: build, grow, and give back.

In a recent episode of "The Chicagoan," host Nick DeGregorio delved into an inspiring conversation with Tania Leanos, a multi-talented individual balancing careers in finance and fashion. Born and raised in Chicago, Tania's journey from a criminology major to a financial professional and model showcases her resilience and determination.

Tania shared her background, growing up in Berwyn, Illinois, and attending UIC with aspirations of law school. However, her path shifted as she joined her family's finance firm. Despite the initial uncertainty, she embraced her new role, demonstrating the power of adaptability. “I thought I’d be going to law school, but I couldn’t see myself doing that for the rest of my life,” Tania explained.

The discussion illuminated how Tania balances an office job with fashion gigs, revealing a unique blend of professional worlds. “It's a really good balance going from an office setting to Miami Swim Week and back,” Tania said, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in her career.

A key figure in Tania’s life is her sister, who played a pivotal role in introducing her to the fashion industry. Watching her sister's modeling career inspired Tania to pursue similar opportunities. “She started her own clothing line, and I’ve been helping her with that. Having a role model like her made me want to do it too,” Tania shared, underscoring the significance of family support.

The conversation also touched on Tania's personal growth through challenging times, including her parents' divorce. This experience, though difficult, shaped her resilience and drive. “Seeing my mom take care of three kids on her own was a challenge, but it pushed her to start our family finance firm. It showed me that we could get far just following her lead,” Tania reflected.

She encouraged listeners to believe in themselves and take action despite fears. “I used to think I wasn’t tall enough or thin enough. But you just have to go for it, work hard, and not care about what others think,” Tania advised, highlighting the importance of self-belief and perseverance.

Fitness also plays a crucial role in Tania’s life, helping her manage stress and maintain balance. She revealed how cardio routines, like her "hot girl walks" with her sister and dog, provide a mental escape. “It makes me feel so much better and helps me find peace of mind,” she said, emphasizing the therapeutic benefits of staying active.

Looking ahead, Tania is excited about her future projects, including planning an innovative fashion show with her sister. She also dreams of starting her own brand and balancing her professional achievements with personal aspirations. “In a few years, I hope to be a mom, a wife, and continue growing our businesses,” Tania envisioned, showing her commitment to both career and family.

Nick's interview with Tania Leanos offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone striving to balance multiple passions and overcome obstacles. Through their conversation, Tania's story of hard work, family support, and self-belief shines as a testament to achieving success on one's terms.

Jennie Raymer, host of The Chicagoan podcast, recently sat down with Julie Giese, the president of NASCAR Chicago, to discuss the upcoming NASCAR race and its significance for the city. This event marks a pivotal moment for both NASCAR and Chicago, especially considering last year's successful debut.

Julie, a seasoned professional with 24 years in NASCAR, shared her journey from growing up on a dairy farm to becoming a pivotal figure in the racing industry. Her story is one of perseverance and passion, qualities that have driven her career. "If you have a passion for something, don't give up on it," Julie advised, emphasizing the importance of resilience and authenticity.

Last year, NASCAR's first-ever street race in Chicago drew significant attention. With 85% of attendees experiencing their first NASCAR race, the event was more than just a race; it was a celebration of the city's vibrancy and potential. Despite less-than-ideal weather, the enthusiasm and turnout highlighted Chicago's appeal and the sport's broadening reach.

The collaboration with local schools, such as Chicago Public Schools and Columbia College, has created educational and engagement opportunities. Julie shared, "Our youth created a 200-foot mural, and this year, they designed the banners in Butler Field. It's representative of Chicago and NASCAR coming together."

The race not only attracts tourism but also supports local businesses. Julie noted, "Working closely with Choose Chicago and the Sports Commission, we aim to drive tourism and showcase the city's beauty." The 2023 race, scheduled for July 6th and 7th, promises to build on this foundation, further embedding NASCAR into the city's cultural fabric.

Julie recounted the story of TFOCB Member Jamie Elder, a South Loop resident and first-time NASCAR attendee, who was initially skeptical but left with a newfound appreciation for the sport. His experience epitomizes NASCAR's goal to reach new audiences and create lasting impressions. "Seeing our longtime race fans come together with new ones in downtown Chicago was special," Julie remarked.

For fans attending this year, Julie recommended utilizing scanners or the NASCAR mobile app to listen in on drivers' communications, enhancing the immersive experience. "It's like getting inside the helmet," she said, underscoring how this feature offers a unique perspective on the race.

The inclusion of Chicago's own Buddy Guy and a house music showcase adds local flavor to the event, making it a true celebration of the city. Julie concluded with a piece of advice: "Listen and be authentic. Whatever you're doing, ensure it has authenticity to it." Her words resonate not only with aspiring professionals but also with anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their community.

This episode with Julie Giese is a testament to how sports, community, and passion can come together to create something extraordinary. As the city gears up for another thrilling race weekend, it's clear that NASCAR is more than just a sport—it's a bridge that connects and uplifts communities.

In a riveting episode of the Angel Cascallares Podcast, Angel shares his transformative journey from a kinesiology degree to becoming a life insurance broker. Growing up in Chicago's Avondale area, Angel's story is one of resilience and adaptability.

His initial career in fitness eventually led him to the world of insurance, where he now helps others plan for the future.

Angel's profound insight into the importance of health and financial literacy, especially within the Hispanic community, underscores the necessity of tough conversations about life and health insurance.

His personal experience of losing his father to lung cancer without proper financial planning adds a poignant touch, highlighting the critical need for preparation.

Angel’s story is a compelling blend of personal growth and professional evolution, offering valuable lessons on balancing fast-paced American life with the familial warmth of Argentinian culture. Tune in to learn how Angel navigates these dual worlds with wisdom and grace.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn your dreams into reality, against all odds?

Krystal McDoom shares her extraordinary journey from the shores of St. Lucia to the bustling streets of Chicago, where she carved a niche in the engineering world.

Tune in to hear her inspiring story of resilience, ambition, and the power of education on "The Chicagoan" podcast.

#DreamBig #Resilience #EngineeringExcellence #ChicagoanStories #IslandToCity #WomenInSTEM #Inspiration #tfocb #podcast #Empowerment

In a recent episode of The Chicagoan Podcast, we had the privilege of sitting down with Ambily Jose, a multifaceted talent whose journey from corporate America to fashion blogging and content creation offers a masterclass in the pursuit of true confidence and the art of embracing one's identity.

Ambily's story is not just a narrative of personal triumph but a beacon of inspiration for anyone standing at the crossroads of conformity and individuality.

Ambily Jose, once a corporate professional at Amazon and now a burgeoning name in fashion blogging and content creation, shared her transformative journey with us. It began in the solitude of the pandemic, a period that for many was a pause but for Ambily, a pivot.

Reflecting on her childhood experiences of bullying and cultural alienation, she realized the power of self-acceptance and the importance of representing one's culture with pride. This realization was the genesis of her venture into social media, where she began to model and share stories of her culture, not to become an influencer in the traditional sense but to heal and inspire.

"One big lesson, it's understanding what confidence really is," Ambily shared. "True confidence, in my eyes, comes from getting out of your comfort zone." This profound insight is at the heart of Ambily's message and her life's work.

Her initial foray into fashion blogging, prompted by a simple direct message to a brand she admired, was a leap into the unknown that paid dividends in self-assurance and opened the door to numerous opportunities.

Ambily's narrative is a testament to the idea that confidence is not a facade of perfection but the courage to be imperfect, to embrace one's story, and to share it with the world. Her journey underscores the significance of vulnerability, community, and the relentless pursuit of one's passions, even when they diverge from the expected path.

For our listeners and readers, Ambily's story is a reminder that true confidence is not inherited or bestowed but forged in the fires of challenge and self-discovery. It's a call to action to step out of the shadows of doubt and into the light of self-expression. Whether it's through starting a podcast, reaching out to a brand, or simply sharing your story, the path to confidence is paved with the steps we're afraid to take.

Ambily Jose's evolution from a corporate employee to a voice of influence in the digital realm illustrates the transformative power of embracing one's identity and the courage to redefine success on one's own terms. Her journey is a beacon for anyone seeking to find their voice, to build a community, and to make an impact by simply being themselves.

In a compelling episode of The Chicagoan Podcast, host Jennie Raymer sits down with Al Prudeaux, whose life story reads like a blueprint for success against the odds. This episode doesn't just recount Al's journey; it delves into the rich tapestry of experiences that shaped him, from his roots in Chicago's Bronzeville to his unexpected foray into real estate and finance.

Al's narrative is a testament to the power of resilience, ingenuity, and the importance of community. Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Al's journey into the world of real estate wasn't planned.

It was born out of necessity and a stroke of luck that saw him flipping a HUD home without a traditional mortgage. This experience, fraught with challenges, laid the foundation for Al's philosophy on real estate and life: "It's all about seizing opportunities and learning from every endeavor."

Jennie skillfully guides the conversation, highlighting not just Al's successes but the lessons learned along the way. Al's story is punctuated with wisdom applicable to anyone at any stage of their career or life. "You learn very quickly that without a job, you can't get a mortgage," Al shares, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nuts and bolts of any venture you dive into.

The episode isn't just about real estate; it's a narrative on community engagement, trust, and transformation. Al's involvement in the redevelopment of his childhood neighborhood underscores his deep connection to and impact on the community.

"Who in their life gets a chance to be a part of a group that's redeveloping your neighborhood?" Al asks, highlighting the rare opportunity to contribute meaningfully to one's community.

Jennie and Al's discussion is a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals, offering relatable lessons on the importance of building a solid team, understanding your field, and the value of genuine community engagement over superficial networking.

"You're going to pay those people to be on your team, whether you like it or not," Al remarks, stressing the importance of investing in relationships and expertise rather than empty promises of quick seminars and coaches.

This episode is more than a conversation; it's a masterclass in perseverance, strategic thinking, and the art of turning life's unexpected twists into stepping stones for success.

In the latest episode of The Chicagoan, we delve into the life of Bob Coyne, a seasoned account executive at WGN Radio. Coyne's journey is not just a tale of professional triumph but a symphony of life lessons, resilience, and the art of balancing passion with purpose.

Bob Coyne's story begins in the unlikely setting of diaper commercials. As a child, he was already in the spotlight, a path set by his family's involvement in the entertainment industry. “I literally started in diaper commercials on television," Coyne recalls, a testament to his early start in a world that would shape his future.

But it wasn't just the glitter of early fame that defined Coyne; it was his pivot at a crucial juncture that shaped his narrative. Despite a promising start in front of the camera, including a role in the Academy Award-winning movie Ordinary People, Coyne chose a different path.

He ventured into the realm of radio and sales, a decision that speaks volumes about his character. "I pursued the production and the sales side, the business side... I thought that was a cooler Avenue for me,” he explains. This decision underscores a vital lesson: success is not just about seizing opportunities, but also about making conscious choices that align with one's true passions and strengths.

Coyne's tenure at WGN Radio is a story of commitment and adaptability. Staying with one company for over two decades is a rarity in today's fast-paced career landscape. Yet, Coyne's journey at WGN is a testament to his belief in loyalty and the power of deep-rooted professional relationships. He reflects,

"I'm just a middle-of-the-pack guy that knows how to make some sales and take care of my clients." His humility and dedication are reminders that true success is often found in consistency and the ability to nurture lasting connections.

Another remarkable aspect of Coyne's life is his transition from being a pianist to a painter. This shift, fueled by a life-changing decision to stop drinking, marks a pivotal moment in his life. It signifies the power of personal transformation and the courage to embrace new beginnings.

“I picked up a paintbrush... and I’ve been painting the last 11 years," he shares, illustrating that it's never too late to discover and pursue new passions.

Bob Coyne's story is more than a career trajectory; it's about the harmony between personal growth, professional evolution, and the courage to walk an unconventional path. His journey teaches us that life is not just about the roles we play but about the choices we make and the passions we pursue.