In this episode of The Chicagoland Guide, host Aaron Masliansky sits down with filmmaker Aaron Wertheimer to talk about his latest feature film, Not If I See You First. Shot in Skokie, Evanston, Lincolnwood, and Winnetka, the film is an absurd buddy comedy filled with quirky adventures, selective amnesia, and a lot of cherry cola.

Aaron shares insights into the filmmaking process, his love for capturing everyday life in Chicagoland, and what it’s like to work with family and longtime friends—including his wife, Joey Wertheimer, who stars in the film. They also discuss the importance of independent theaters and the experience of screening a film at the historic Music Box Theatre.

If you love indie filmmaking, Chicago’s local film scene, or just enjoy a great story about creative collaboration, this episode is for you!

Watch the Film – Screening Info & Tickets

Chicago Premiere at the Music Box Theatre – March 26, 2025

Get tickets

Wilmette Theatre Screening – April 1, 2025

Get tickets

Follow Aaron Wertheimer & The Film

Website: aaronwertheimer.com

Instagram:

• @notifmovie

• @thetruerealaaronwertheimer

Listen to Aaron’s First Podcast Appearance (2018)

Inside the Skev – Aaron Wertheimer’s First Interview

Follow The Chicagoland Guide

Instagram & Facebook: @TheChicagolandGuide

Website: thechicagolandguide.com

Listen & Subscribe

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.

Enjoy the episode and don’t forget to grab a cherry cola before you watch the film!

Thank you for listening to The Chicagoland Guide!
For more insights into the best places to live, work, and explore in Chicagoland, visit thechicagolandguide.com. Connect with us on social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes content. If you have any questions or want to share your own Chicagoland stories, feel free to reach out! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode.

In this conversation, host Aaron Masliansky interviews Skokie Village Board candidates Dr. Keith Robinson and Khemarey Khoeun about their backgrounds, motivations for public service, and the significant changes in Skokie's political landscape. They discuss the impact of the Skokie Caucus Party, the importance of civility in local politics, and the key issues facing the community, including housing affordability and community representation. The candidates emphasize the need for public engagement and the ongoing efforts to address local challenges, including the redesign of the village seal to better reflect the community's values.

Keith and Khem Website: https://www.keithandkhem.com

Village of Skokie: https://www.skokie.org

Takeaways

• Public service often begins with a commitment to education.
• Diversity in representation is crucial for community governance.
• Recent changes in Skokie's political structure aim to enhance democracy.
• Civility in local politics is essential for community cohesion.
• Housing affordability is a pressing issue that requires innovative solutions.
• Community engagement is vital for effective governance.
• The Skokie Caucus Party has historically influenced local elections.
• Public-private partnerships can drive economic development.
• Understanding local governance can empower residents to get involved.
• The redesign of the village seal reflects a commitment to inclusivity.

Sound Bites

• "It's democracy at work."
• "We need to respect that process."
• "Housing is a national issue."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Skokie's Village Board Candidates

07:14 Backgrounds of the Candidates

12:53 Changes in Skokie's Political Landscape

18:53 The Role of the Skokie Caucus Party

23:16 Maintaining Civility in Local Politics

27:48 Building Community Through Collaboration

28:46 Economic Development and Infrastructure Challenges

31:13 Revitalizing Main Street and Public-Private Partnerships

33:08 Addressing Housing Affordability and Inventory Issues

39:29 The Importance of Local Elections and Community Involvement

50:09 Understanding the Village Seal and Community Representation

Thank you for listening to The Chicagoland Guide!
For more insights into the best places to live, work, and explore in Chicagoland, visit thechicagolandguide.com. Connect with us on social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes content. If you have any questions or want to share your own Chicagoland stories, feel free to reach out! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode.

In this powerful episode of The Chicagoland Guide, host Aaron Masliansky sits down with Chef Mona Sang, the heart and soul behind Khmai Cambodian Dining in Rogers Park, Chicago. Chef Mona shares her deeply personal journey of preserving Cambodian culture and history through her restaurant, inspired by her mother's resilience as a survivor of the Khmer Rouge genocide.

From a challenging past to an incredible present, Chef Mona and her mother have created a space where guests can experience authentic Cambodian flavors and immerse themselves in the stories and traditions of Cambodia. Khmai Fine Dining is not just a restaurant—it's a testament to family, survival, and the power of food to heal and connect.

Key Highlights:

• Cultural Immersion: Learn how Chef Mona uses murals, storytelling, and traditional Cambodian greetings to create a unique dining experience that goes beyond food.
• Family Inspiration: Hear how Mona's mother’s resilience, love of cooking, and cultural recipes shaped the restaurant and Mona’s mission.
• A Culinary Journey: Discover how cooking helped Mona reconnect with her roots, heal her family, and honor her mother's legacy.
• Community Impact: Explore how Khmai Fine Dining serves as a hub for the Cambodian community while educating others about its rich culture.
• Award-Winning Success: From humble beginnings to being a James Beard semi-finalist, Chef Mona reflects on the challenges and triumphs of running a Cambodian restaurant in Chicago.

Discover more:

• The inspiration behind the murals and decor at Khmai Fine Dining.
• Why Cambodian cuisine holds a special place in the culinary world.
• The dual concepts of Khmai Fine Dining: traditional vs. modern takes on Cambodian food.
• How food helps preserve cultural identity and bring healing.

Whether you’re a foodie, a history lover, or someone passionate about cultural preservation, this episode offers a deeply moving story you won’t want to miss.

Resources & Links:

• Visit Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining: khmai-fine-dining.com
• Follow Khmai on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khmaichicago
• Follow The Chicagoland Guide: @TheChicagolandGuide
• Watch and listen to the full episode: https://www.thechicagolandguide.com/chefmona/
• Learn more about Chicagoland's hidden gems: The Chicagoland Guide Website

Let us know your thoughts on this incredible story, and don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring episodes celebrating the people and places that make Chicagoland special!

Thank you for listening to The Chicagoland Guide!
For more insights into the best places to live, work, and explore in Chicagoland, visit thechicagolandguide.com. Connect with us on social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes content. If you have any questions or want to share your own Chicagoland stories, feel free to reach out! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode.

In this episode of The Chicagoland Guide, host Aaron Masliansky welcomes Ashley Calhoun, founder of the Vision Board Experience. Hosted in Evanston, Illinois, Ashley’s mission is to empower individuals through vision boards, goal-setting, and community support, offering an annual event that brings people together to envision and manifest their aspirations.

Ashley shares the origins of the Vision Board Experience, starting with a small gathering in 2021, and growing into a significant community event that encourages personal growth and connections. She explains the power of vision boards as a manifestation tool to help people align with their dreams, whether it’s buying a home, launching a business, or focusing on personal wellness.

Key Highlights:

• Ashley Calhoun’s journey from idea to impactful event with the Vision Board Experience.
• The role of vision boards in setting and achieving personal and professional goals.
• Insights into the 2024 Vision Board Experience, happening December 14th at Fleetwood-Jourdain Center in Evanston, with guest speakers, sponsors, and interactive activities.
• Community support, networking, and resources available to participants, including guidance from experts in areas like real estate and wellness.

Listeners will gain insight into how Ashley’s event creates a space for empowerment, reflection, and action, inspiring attendees to take charge of their paths and build connections within their community.

For more information on the Vision Board Experience, visit visionboardexp.com.

Thank you for listening to The Chicagoland Guide!
For more insights into the best places to live, work, and explore in Chicagoland, visit thechicagolandguide.com. Connect with us on social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes content. If you have any questions or want to share your own Chicagoland stories, feel free to reach out! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode.

In this episode of The Chicagoland Guide, host Aaron Masliansky chats with Gina Speckman, Executive Director of Chicago’s North Shore Convention and Visitors Bureau. From local festivals to scenic lakefronts, Gina shares the unique appeal of the North Shore and why it’s a prime destination for both residents and visitors. They explore everything from concert venues and cultural landmarks to emerging businesses and attractions that bring the area to life.

Listen in to learn about how the North Shore Convention and Visitors Bureau promotes events like the Summer of Sound campaign, supports small businesses, and collaborates with local organizations to foster a welcoming and vibrant community. Whether you’re planning a day trip, attending an event, or just curious about the area, this episode gives a fresh perspective on all the North Shore has to offer.

Key Takeaways:

• Local Events and Attractions: The North Shore is brimming with cultural events and scenic spaces. This year’s Summer of Sound campaign highlighted the abundance of live music and festivals available to residents and visitors alike.
• Business and Community: Gina explains the importance of local businesses and arts organizations in maintaining the area’s charm and appeal.
• Future Developments: Major projects like the new Northwestern Stadium and Old Orchard Mall redevelopment are creating even more reasons to visit and explore the North Shore’s offerings.

Chapters:

[00:00] Introduction
Aaron introduces Gina and discusses her role in promoting the North Shore’s tourism.

[06:31] Local Arts & Events Collaboration
How the North Shore’s arts and music festivals contribute to its lively community culture.

[15:24] Top North Shore Attractions
From lakefront trails to historic landmarks, Gina shares must-see spots in the North Shore area.

[29:22] Future Trends and Community Growth
New developments like the Northwestern Stadium are creating exciting changes on the North Shore.

Links and Resources:

• Chicago's North Shore Convention and Visitors Bureau: visitchicagonorthshore.com

Connect on Social: Stay up-to-date with local events and more by following The Chicagoland Guide on Instagram @TheChicagolandGuide.

This episode captures the best of the North Shore and gives you plenty of reasons to visit and explore this charming Chicagoland area.

Thank you for listening to The Chicagoland Guide!
For more insights into the best places to live, work, and explore in Chicagoland, visit thechicagolandguide.com. Connect with us on social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes content. If you have any questions or want to share your own Chicagoland stories, feel free to reach out! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode.

In this episode of The Chicagoland Guide, I sit down with Karla Koziura, co-owner and Marketing Director of FRÍO Gelato, a popular gelato company with locations in Evanston, Navy Pier, and a new spot in Wilmette. Karla shares the story behind FRÍO Gelato’s origins, the challenges and triumphs of expanding to new locations, and what makes their gelato truly special.

We discuss how FRÍO Gelato’s commitment to quality and authenticity sets them apart in the dessert scene. Using 100% Argentine-inspired ingredients and nut allergy-friendly options, FRÍO Gelato aims to create a unique, inclusive dessert experience for everyone.

Key topics covered in this episode include:

The Story of FRÍO Gelato
How Karla and her husband got started and why they chose to bring a piece of Argentina to Chicagoland.

Expansion and New Locations
The grand opening of the new Wilmette store, the success at Navy Pier, and plans for the future.

Community Engagement
How FRÍO Gelato collaborates with local businesses, their approach to building community relationships, and the recent Wilmette grand opening featuring live entertainment and a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

What Makes FRÍO Gelato Unique
A behind-the-scenes look at their process, the inspiration behind their nut allergy-friendly gelato flavors, and the secret to maintaining quality as they grow.

The Importance of Local Support
The role local customers have played in FRÍO Gelato’s journey and how they continue to support the community through partnerships and events.

This episode is perfect for anyone interested in learning more about local businesses in Chicagoland, unique food experiences, and how passion and dedication can drive a business to success.

Tune in to hear Karla’s insights and discover why FRÍO Gelato is more than just a dessert—it's a community-driven experience that brings people together through the love of authentic, high-quality gelato.

Links Mentioned:

• Visit FRÍO Gelato’s website to learn more about their flavors, locations, and nut allergy-friendly options.
• Follow FRÍO Gelato on Instagram for updates, new flavors, and events.

Connect with The Chicagoland Guide:

• Visit The Chicagoland Guide for more episodes, insights, and guides.
• Follow us on Instagram: @TheChicagolandGuide
• Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive content and updates.

Enjoy the episode, and don’t forget to check out FRÍO Gelato the next time you’re in Wilmette, Evanston, or at Navy Pier!

Thank you for listening to The Chicagoland Guide!
For more insights into the best places to live, work, and explore in Chicagoland, visit thechicagolandguide.com. Connect with us on social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes content. If you have any questions or want to share your own Chicagoland stories, feel free to reach out! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode.

Welcome to the very first episode of The Chicagoland Guide! In this short intro, host Aaron Masliansky shares what this show is all about. From exploring the unique neighborhoods of Chicago and its suburbs to interviewing local business owners and community leaders, we’ll dive into what makes Chicagoland such a dynamic place to live, work, and explore.

Whether you're interested in discovering hidden gems, staying up-to-date on real estate trends, or just want to learn more about the community, The Chicagoland Guide is here to be your go-to resource.

Connect with Us
🌐 Website: TheChicagolandGuide.com
📷 Instagram: @TheChicagolandGuide
👍 Facebook: The Chicagoland Guide
▶️ YouTube: The Chicagoland Guide

Be sure to subscribe, share, and leave a review if you’re excited to join us on this journey. Thanks for tuning in, and let’s explore Chicagoland together!

Thank you for listening to The Chicagoland Guide!
For more insights into the best places to live, work, and explore in Chicagoland, visit thechicagolandguide.com. Connect with us on social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes content. If you have any questions or want to share your own Chicagoland stories, feel free to reach out! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode.