Our next guest is the Founder of a plant workshop here in Chicago. He goes by @uncommonplantguy. Despite the simple idea for a date night, there is so much more to experience through the lens of creating and caring for a kokedama plant. We reflect on his 13 year journey through stage theater, the lessons he’s learned through almost 10 years of therapy, as well as some themes around the human condition. Please enjoy my conversation with Austin Hunt.

https://uncommonplantguy.com/

https://www.instagram.com/uncommonplantguy/

Our next guests are preparing to open a highly anticipated burger restaurant in Park Ridge in partnership with Mikerphone Brewing. They met at the highly coveted Bavettes in Chicago and went through many iterations of what life could look like during and after the pandemic. They both were seeking stability and it wasn’t until several pop ups when Phil from Super Goode stopped by and left them a raving review. The stars began to align and they will be opening Brennan’s Gourmet Burger Shack in early 2026. Please enjoy my conversation with Alyssa and Conor Brennan.

https://www.brennansgbs.com/

https://www.instagram.com/brennans.gbs

https://www.instagram.com/simple_delicious_food

https://www.instagram.com/kid_at_heartt

Our next guests are Ryan Catolico and Enrique Huizar of Novel Pizza. I’ve been following their journey since the very beginning. I believe this was the second entry into the Almedaverse. Ryan reflects on how he and Francis tried to replicate some of their favorite pizzas and eventually called for help from Enrique aka Gremski who has grown up in the pizza industry. They’ve had many iterations throughout the years and have found their footing in PIlsen, Chicago. Please enjoy my conversation with Ryan and Enrique of Novel Pizza Cafe.

https://www.novelpizzacafe.com/

https://www.instagram.com.com/novel.pizza

https://www.instagram.com/rythatguy_

Https://www.instagram.com/gremski