First, But Not the Last: Juliana Stratton’s Journey in Chicago Politics

In the premiere episode of Chicago State of Mind, host Cheryl Mainor sits down with Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton—not just as an elected official, but as a Chicagoan, daughter, wife, and mother. Together, they talk about growing up on the South Side, the lessons of service and community she learned from her parents, and what it really looks like to balance public life with family, faith, and motherhood. Stratton reflects on making history as the first Black Lieutenant Governor of Illinois, the power of representation, and how Chicago’s unique mix of grit, joy, and hope shapes her leadership and her voice.