Always Andersonville: The Podcast

On this episode of Always Andersonville: The Podcast, CJ sits down with Ronit Bezalel. Ronit Bezalel has spent years telling stories through image, first through documentary filmmaking and now through photography. Her work captures weddings, mitzvahs, families, celebrations, entrepreneurs, and all those little moments that happen in between. 

On this episode of Always Andersonville: The Podcast, CJ welcomes back Zack Meyer and Orion Couling, the storytellers behind Shadow Carriers. Together, Zack and Orion have spent years bringing paranormal folklore, local legends, and haunted history to life through immersive storytelling, walking tours, and their Shadow Carriers podcast. Their work blends history, mystery, and a little darkness to explore the stories that linger just beneath the surface of familiar places, including right here in Andersonville. Need more paranormal folklore? You can listen to Zack and Orion on the Shadow Carriers podcast for haunting tales, music, and immersive sound design. Don't miss their upcoming Andersonville Ghost Tours returning this October!  

On this episode of Always Andersonville: The Podcast, CJ sits down with Kale Blessum, owner of Viking Muay Thai located at 5645 N Ashland. Viking Muay Thai is an Andersonville martial arts gym dedicated to the art of Muay Thai, welcoming everyone from first-time students to experienced fighters. With a focus on technique, fitness, discipline, and community, Kale and his team have created an approachable space where members can challenge themselves and build confidence.

On this episode of Always Andersonville: The Podcast, CJ sits down with Tyler and Andrew Fortman of Tandem Psychology. Tandem Psychology opened a new location this summer at 5340 N Clark, Suite 212 in Andersonville. Tandem is an established outpatient mental health practice serving individuals, couples, and families through compassionate psychotherapy and comprehensive psychological assessment. Built on the belief that meaningful change happens through collaboration, Tandem offers specialized, evidence-based care while maintaining a strong commitment to inclusivity and affirming support for the LGBTQIA+ community.

On this episode of Always Andersonville: The Podcast, CJ sits down with Alfie Rivera, Tom Rzeszutek, and Barbie Daggett, the family behind Andersonville's newest home and lifestyle shop, homebird at 5238 N Clark. Listen as they share their journey to create a store rooted in the idea that home is built over time, gathered piece by piece, and filled with meaningful objects that tell a story. 

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 housing, and small business support to city budgeting, public safety, and the future of independent business corridors.

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 locations and other major retailers across Chicago. Listen in as they talk collaboration, friendship, and parenthood.

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 results!

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 food system. Local Pastures works directly with farms and artisans throughout the Midwest, making it easier for consumers to access high-quality meats, dairy products, and pantry staples while supporting independent producers. Learn more about Local Pastures at localpastures.com.

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 results from red light therapy, she set out to expand the way she helps people heal. Enjoy the episode!

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 resilient and equitable local food system. Aville Grows is powered by community involvement and is a project of the Andersonville Sustainable Community Alliance (ASCA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working to create a greener, more inclusive Andersonville for all.