Today, we are joined by members of the Neo-Futurists, the experimental theater company that has been creating bold, original performances in Chicago since 1988. Their signature show, The Infinite Wrench, is a fast-paced, ever-changing production made up of 30 plays in 60 minutes, with the audience deciding the order of what happens on stage. It is unpredictable, personal, often hilarious, and unlike almost anything else you will see in theater.

The Neo-Futurists are known for blending storytelling, performance, and real life, with ensemble members writing and performing their own work and creating new material every week.

Today we talk about the origins of the company, the creative process behind The Infinite Wrench, the role of experimental theater in Chicago, and why spaces for artistic risk-taking continue to matter in neighborhoods like Andersonville.

Today, we are joined by Karen Carney, Head of School at Chicago Friends School, along with students Violet and Imogen.

Chicago Friends School, located at 1315 W Berwyn, is a K–8 independent school grounded in Quaker values: simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equity, and stewardship. Those aren’t just words on a wall. They shape how students learn, how teachers teach, and how the entire community shows up for one another.

In a supportive and intentionally diverse environment, students are nurtured to reach their full academic, creative, and spiritual potential. Curiosity is encouraged. Voices are respected. Character is built alongside strong critical thinking skills.

Graduates of Chicago Friends School leave not only prepared for high school, but equipped with the confidence, empathy, and real-world experience to help build a better world.

Today we are joined by Brian Mamassian and Tyler Leasher, co-owners of Cowboys and Astronauts, Andersonville’s independent lifestyle and gift shop. Founded in 2017 and relaunched in 2025, the shop offers a curated mix of apparel, accessories, home décor, and gifts blending rugged grit with cosmic imagination, a welcoming hub for the community known for its warm hospitality, thoughtful curation, and inclusive spirit. Tyler brings over a decade in retail, while Brian draws on 15 years in tech and finance. Known for warm hospitality and thoughtful curation, Cowboys and Astronauts features popular and local brands alike and has earned four consecutive Chicago Reader “Best of Chicago” honors.