Living In Chicago

Ep. 22: 40th Ward Alderperson Andre Vasquez

Join host Jake Lyons on the 'Living in Chicago' podcast as he sits down with Andre Vasquez, the Alderman of Chicago's 40th Ward. Discover insights into urban politics, local development, and the unique character of neighborhoods like Lincoln Square, Edgewater, Ravenswood, Westridge and others that at least partly fall within the 40th ward. From his grassroots beginnings to his current role, Vasquez shares personal anecdotes, community initiatives, and thoughts on local challenges, including immigration and public safety. Ideal for Chicago residents and anyone interested in the city's vibrant, diverse community. The Living in Chicago Podcast is where I, Jake Lyons, get to interview all kinds of people about the Chicago neighborhoods they live in, work in, and play in. This way, you can learn about the lifestyle pros and cons of various neighborhoods directly from the people who live there (or maybe even learn something new about your own neighborhood!) More from 40th Ward Alderperson Andre Vasquez: https://40thward.org/ [https://40thward.org/] Follow/Watch Living In Chicago:  LIC - YouTube, Insta, LinkedIn, FB, TikTok, etc. [https://linktr.ee/livinginchicagopodcast] Want to be a guest on the show? https://www.livinginchicago.com/guest-form [https://www.livinginchicago.com/guest-form] About The Host: https://linktr.ee/jakelyonsrealtor [https://linktr.ee/jakelyonsrealtor] Real Estate in areas discussed: https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/andersonville/ [https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/search/results/s9k/?city=Chicago&neighborhood_original=Chi+-+Edgewater&mo_neighborhood=Andersonville&type=res&type=con&type=twn&list_price_min=50000&list_price_max=all&beds_min=all&beds_max=all&baths_min=all&attached_type=all&detached_type=all&parking=all&garage_spaces_min=all&sqft_total_min=all&air_conditioning=all&heating=all&pet_desc=all&pet_weight_limit_max=all&laundry_features=all&common_area_amenities=all&assessment_association_dues_max=all&assessment_includes=all&appliances=all&exterior_features=all&interior_features=all&age=all&unit_floor_level_min=all&unit_floor_level_max=all&exposure=all&basement=all&total_number_units_min=all&total_number_units_max=all&waterfront=all&new_construction=all&can_owner_rent=all&terms=all&tax_amount_max=all&distressed_property=all&foreclosure=all&short_sale=all] Real Estate Quick Start Questionnaire  https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/form/ [https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/form/] 00:00 Welcome to Living in Chicago 00:25 Meet Andre Vasquez: The 40th Ward Alderman 00:51 Setting the Tone: Podcast Goals and Approach 02:27 Andre's Story: From Rapper to Alderman 06:02 Understanding the Role of an Alderman 08:41 Challenges and Triumphs in Office 11:53 Hip Hop and Politics: A Unique Perspective 17:03 Life in the 40th Ward 21:57 Real Estate Stats Corner: Lincoln Square 24:24 Fireworks Controversy in Ravenswood 27:07 Challenges and Developments in the 40th Ward 29:13 Immigrant and Refugee Rights Committee 32:55 Community Engagement and Creative Initiatives 38:00 Promoting the 40th Ward's Unique Character 41:20 Why Choose Chicago and the 40th Ward?

Ep. 21: Charlie Wein of the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce

Explore the unique charm of Andersonville, Chicago, with Charlie Wein, Director of Marketing and Communications for the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce. Discover the neighborhood’s vibrant culture, iconic events like Midsommarfest, and the tight-knit community spirit. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of supporting small local businesses and preserving the area's rich Swedish heritage. Perfect for residents and those curious about moving to this celebrated neighborhood. The Living in Chicago Podcast is where I, Jake Lyons, get to interview all kinds of people about the Chicago neighborhoods they live in, work in, and play in. This way, you can learn about the lifestyle pros and cons of various neighborhoods directly from the people who live there (or maybe even learn something new about your own neighborhood!) More from Charlie/Andersonville Chamber of Commerce: Always Andersonville Podcast [https://andersonville.org/visit/always-andersonville-the-podcast/] https://andersonville.org/ [https://andersonville.org/] Follow/Watch Living In Chicago:  LIC - YouTube, Insta, LinkedIn, FB, TikTok, etc. [https://linktr.ee/livinginchicagopodcast] Want to be a guest on the show? https://www.livinginchicago.com/guest-form [https://www.livinginchicago.com/guest-form] About The Host: https://linktr.ee/jakelyonsrealtor [https://linktr.ee/jakelyonsrealtor] Real Estate in areas discussed: https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/andersonville/ [https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/search/results/s9k/?city=Chicago&neighborhood_original=Chi+-+Edgewater&mo_neighborhood=Andersonville&type=res&type=con&type=twn&list_price_min=50000&list_price_max=all&beds_min=all&beds_max=all&baths_min=all&attached_type=all&detached_type=all&parking=all&garage_spaces_min=all&sqft_total_min=all&air_conditioning=all&heating=all&pet_desc=all&pet_weight_limit_max=all&laundry_features=all&common_area_amenities=all&assessment_association_dues_max=all&assessment_includes=all&appliances=all&exterior_features=all&interior_features=all&age=all&unit_floor_level_min=all&unit_floor_level_max=all&exposure=all&basement=all&total_number_units_min=all&total_number_units_max=all&waterfront=all&new_construction=all&can_owner_rent=all&terms=all&tax_amount_max=all&distressed_property=all&foreclosure=all&short_sale=all] Real Estate Quick Start Questionnaire  https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/form/ [https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/form/]

Ep. 20: Toy Hawkins on Woodlawn, Douglas, Making It In the TV Business, and More!

Meet Toy Hawkins, a resident of the Douglas neighborhood with deep roots in Chicago, who shares her journey from Woodlawn to Hollywood as a TV producer. We discuss the evolution of her childhood neighborhood, Chicago's real estate landscape, and Toy's successful projects like "That Girl Lay Lay" and "Kingdom Business," among others. The conversation dives into the impact of Chicago's culture on her career, future goals, and the importance of family heritage. Tune in to hear about the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit that defines Toy’s story. The Living in Chicago Podcast is where I, Jake Lyons, get to interview all kinds of people about the Chicago neighborhoods they live in, work in, and play in. This way, you can learn about the lifestyle pros and cons of various neighborhoods directly from the people who live there (or maybe even learn something new about your own neighborhood!) More from Toy: https://www.instagram.com/toymonique/ [https://www.instagram.com/toymonique/] https://www.netflix.com/title/81443738 [https://www.netflix.com/title/81443738] Follow/Watch Living In Chicago:  LIC - YouTube, Insta, LinkedIn, FB, TikTok, etc. [https://linktr.ee/livinginchicagopodcast] Want to be a guest on the show? https://www.livinginchicago.com/guest-form [https://www.livinginchicago.com/guest-form] About The Host: https://linktr.ee/jakelyonsrealtor [https://linktr.ee/jakelyonsrealtor] Real Estate in areas discussed: https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/douglas/ [https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/douglas/] Real Estate Quick Start Questionnaire  https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/form/ [https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/form/]

Ep. 19: Living In Ravenswood feat. The Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce!

Explore the vibrant heart of the Ravenswood neighborhood of Chicago in this episode featuring key figures from the Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce. Delve into the dynamic art scene, local businesses, and community efforts that characterize this unique neighborhood. Listen as guests Amy Czarkowski, Christina Pecce, and Gene Wagendorf III share their experiences of the areas they live and work in, highlighting events like the Ravenswood Art Walk, and discuss the fabric of creativity and connection that defines Ravenswood. The Living in Chicago Podcast is where I, Jake Lyons, get to interview all kinds of people about the Chicago neighborhoods they live in, work in, and play in. This way, you can learn about the lifestyle pros and cons of various neighborhoods directly from the people who live there (or maybe even learn something new about your own neighborhood!) More from the Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce: https://ravenswoodchicago.org/ [https://ravenswoodchicago.org/] Follow/Watch Living In Chicago:  LIC - YouTube, Insta, LinkedIn, FB, TikTok, etc. [https://linktr.ee/livinginchicagopodcast] Want to be a guest on the show? https://www.livinginchicago.com/guest-form [https://www.livinginchicago.com/guest-form] About The Host: https://linktr.ee/jakelyonsrealtor [https://linktr.ee/jakelyonsrealtor] Real Estate in areas discussed: https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/uptown/ [https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/uptown/] https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/lincoln-square/ [https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/lincoln-square/] https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/edgewater/ [https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/edgewater/] https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/north-center/ [https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/north-center/] Real Estate Quick Start Questionnaire  https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/form/ [https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/form/] Local Businesses Mentioned: https://business.ravenswoodchicago.org/list/ [https://business.ravenswoodchicago.org/list/]

Ep. 18: Living In Uptown feat. Ayo Akinokun

Ayo Akinokun is a tech consultant and multifaceted artist living in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood. In this episode we discuss Ayo's global journey from Nigeria to Chicago and his experiences, insights, and love for the eclectic Uptown area. We delve into Ayo's creative pursuits, including acting and singing, and how living in Chicago has influenced his career and personal growth. The episode provides a deep dive into the cultural diversity of Uptown, Ayo’s views on the neighborhood's hidden gems, and his journey across various countries before calling Chicago home. The Living in Chicago Podcast is where I, Jake Lyons, get to interview all kinds of people about the Chicago neighborhoods they live in, work in, and play in. This way, you can learn about the lifestyle pros and cons of various neighborhoods directly from the people who live there (or maybe even learn something new about your own neighborhood!) More from Ayo Akinokun: https://www.instagram.com/ayo_mazing/ [https://www.instagram.com/ayo_mazing/] Follow/Watch Living In Chicago:  LIC - YouTube, Insta, LinkedIn, FB, TikTok, etc. [https://linktr.ee/livinginchicagopodcast] Want to be a guest on the show? livinginchicago.com/guest-form [https://www.livinginchicago.com/guest-form] About The Host: linktr.ee/jakelyonsrealtor [https://linktr.ee/jakelyonsrealtor] Real Estate in areas discussed: https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/uptown/ [https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/uptown/] Real Estate Quick Start Questionnaire  https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/form/ [https://www.thechicagohomesource.com/form/] Local Businesses Mentioned: Iyanze Cafe [https://www.iyanzechicagoil.com/]