Kelly and Chloe - Blush Spa and Boutique. Get ready for a fun and informative episode featuring Blush Boutique and Spa! Discover the wide range of spa services they offer, explore the unique finds in their boutique, and hear the inspiring story of how this local gem got its start. Tune in to learn about the passion and dedication that drive this thriving business in our community!

There is so much to learn in this episode. Most have no idea all of the services and programs available at Avon Township. See how they are helping the less fortunate in many was from the food pantry to clothing drives just to name a few. Michele loves her job and it shows!

Explore the rich tapestry of Grayslake's history through the eyes of Robert Churchill, whose family has been a cornerstone of the community for over a century. Discover the fascinating journey of a law firm that started in 1903 and has grown into a vital part of the local economy. From humble beginnings in a building that once housed a farmers and merchants bank to becoming a small economic engine with nine lawyers and a dedicated staff, the firm has seen it all. Learn about the unique cases they've handled, including a landmark Supreme Court case that changed labor law, and the diverse legal services they provide, from real estate to estate planning. Robert shares not only the firm's legacy but also personal stories that illustrate the vibrant life of Grace Lake. From running with the bulls in Spain to an unexpected encounter with the Blues Brothers, his tales offer a glimpse into the life of someone deeply connected to his community. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and the impact of local businesses on the fabric of a town.

Today, we’re shining a light on a remarkable mom of three who turned a personal challenge into an incredible opportunity to help others. When her son was diagnosed with a speech delay, she didn’t just navigate the challenges—she transformed them into a mission. Through creativity, determination, and love, she discovered new ways to help her son learn and grow.

The result? A beautiful children’s book, thoughtfully crafted to support not just her own child but countless others facing similar struggles. This book is more than a story; it’s a tool, a resource, and a beacon of hope for kids and parents alike.

Meet Lake County’s top K9 trainer. Alex is world famous and a master animal trainer. Tune in to hear about police dogs and Guinness Book records and amazing stories of animal training.

Meet Alex, the dog trainer of dog trainers, sharing his incredible journey from childhood adventures with his first German Shepherd to becoming a world-renowned expert. Alex's passion for dogs began in Chicago with a protective pup named Lady, leading him to a lifelong career in dog training. From working with mentors like Willie Nicker, who trained thousands of dogs during WWII, to mastering the art of training aggressive animals, Alex has dedicated his life to understanding and teaching dogs. His unique approach involves praising dogs, a method he learned to embrace after years of experience. Alex's journey has taken him to national stages, performing with his talented dogs on shows like Jay Leno and David Letterman. With numerous Guinness World Records under his belt, Alex continues to innovate in the world of dog training. Follow along for more stories and insights from this legendary trainer and his star poodle, Pappy. #DogTraining #PappyThePoodle #Inspiration

Tony's Butcher Shop - Sean Daab. Time to learn about our local butcher.

In this episode of "Discovering Grayslake," I had the pleasure of sitting down with Sean Dobbs, the owner of Tony's Butcher Shop, a beloved local establishment that has been a staple in our community since 1997. Sean and his wife took over the shop just a year ago, and he shared his journey from aspiring chef to butcher, highlighting his passion for quality meat and community connection.

Sean emphasized the importance of sourcing the best quality meat, sharing how he personally selects the farms they work with, primarily in Iowa and Nebraska, to ensure ethical practices and superior products.

Sean's enthusiasm for food and community was palpable as he spoke about the role of food in celebrations and gatherings. He reminisced about his childhood memories of family traditions centered around meals, particularly the special roasts from his grandfather's butcher. This personal connection to food drives his commitment to providing the best for his customers, making Tony's not just a place to buy meat, but a part of their family traditions.

Throughout the episode, we explored Sean's innovative approach to the butcher shop, including the introduction of exciting brat flavors and take-and-bake options that cater to busy families. He shared stories of customer interactions that fuel his passion, highlighting the joy of being part of their culinary experiences.

We also touched on the challenges of running a small business, especially in the wake of the pandemic, and how Sean has adapted to ensure Tony's remains a go-to destination for quality meat. He discussed the importance of community support and the pride he feels in serving the residents of Grayslake.

As we wrapped up, Sean invited listeners to connect with Tony's through their Facebook page for updates on specials and new products. His genuine love for his craft and the community shone through, making it clear that Tony's Butcher Shop is more than just a business—it's a place where quality, tradition, and community come together.

Join us for this engaging conversation that not only highlights the importance of shopping local but also celebrates the stories and people that make Gray's Lake a unique and vibrant community.

**Episode 100: A Night to Remember – Live from Grayslake!**

In this milestone 100th episode of *Discovering Grayslake*, we celebrate the heart and soul of our community with a live recording event like no other! Held at The Vine in Grayslake, this special episode brought together all 100 incredible guests who have shared their stories on the podcast over the years.

It was an evening of networking, laughter, and meaningful conversations as past guests reconnected and engaged with a lively audience. From heartfelt reflections on their journeys to spontaneous crowd interactions, this night perfectly captured the spirit of collaboration and community that defines Grayslake.

Join us as we reflect on the podcast’s journey, highlight memorable moments, and look forward to the next 100 episodes. Whether you were there in person or tuning in now, this episode is a testament to the amazing people and stories that make Grayslake so special.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey — here's to 100 more!

Sweet Shop Cafe - Lanie Kuhlman Episode 99. Learn about Grayslake’s newest business. Today you get a sneak peak inside the Cafe before it opens. Lots of surprises on the way. Listen in today.