What does it take to redefine Midwest dining with a style rooted in South American tradition? Chef John Manion shares his incredible journey from a childhood in Brazil and Argentina to creating Chicago’s most iconic live-fire and top-rated restaurants, and a culture of passion, simplicity, learning, and coolness.

Chef John Manion reveals how his childhood in Brazil and his passion for storytelling have profoundly shaped his culinary style. Emphasizing the importance of live-fire cooking and honoring South American flavors, John discusses the creative influences behind his acclaimed Chicago restaurants, El Che and Bracero. He explores the delicate balance between authenticity and creativity, sharing insights on why simplicity often leads to the most memorable dishes. With a laid-back and intelligent approach, John invites listeners to appreciate the journey of culinary exploration, urging them to embrace their unique styles and experiences. This episode is a delightful blend of personal anecdotes and professional wisdom, making it both fun and inspiring for aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts alike.

• Embracing simplicity in cooking can lead to the most memorable dishes.
• John's childhood in Brazil and growing up in Argentina heavily influenced his culinary journey and style, though he still cooks Midwest cuisine.
• Finding a balance between authenticity and creativity is crucial in the culinary arts.
• Manion believes that being open to experiences and learning is key to discovering your style, and that creating your personal style of cooking is a craft that happens over time.
• Building a supportive team and nurturing a positive culture is key to restaurant success.

Chef John Manion takes listeners on a vibrant journey through his culinary evolution, tracing his roots from Detroit to the bustling streets of Sao Paulo and Buenos Aires to the acclaimed kitchens of Chicago. His latest restaurant, Brasero, that we had the pleasure of filming in, has been rated as one of the top new restaurants in the U.S. by Robb Report. He reflects on transformative experiences that shaped his cooking style, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and passion in the culinary arts. As he recounts his childhood memories of Brazilian and Argentine food and culture, John illustrates how these early influences have become the foundation of his culinary philosophy today, though he cooks authentic midwest cuisine.

Throughout the conversation, he underscores the idea that cooking is not merely about recipes but about learning, storytelling, connection, and the emotional experiences tied to food. This episode also delves into the collaborative nature of the restaurant industry, highlighting how important it is to cultivate a positive working environment where young chefs can thrive and express their creativity. John's commitment to nurturing talent in his kitchens shows that the future of culinary artistry is bright when leaders foster collaboration and respect for diverse influences.

Listeners will also gain insight into the dynamics of restaurant ownership and the challenges of maintaining a consistent culinary vision while adapting to changing trends. John shares his approach to menu development, focusing on the importance of seasonal ingredients and maintaining a selection of signature dishes that resonate with patrons. His philosophy that being a restaurant's favorite rather than the best speaks volumes about his understanding of customer connection and experience. Each dish serves as a gateway to a story, and John's passion for live-fire cooking adds an exciting layer to his culinary narrative, inviting guests to experience the flavors of Brazil and Argentina through a uniquely Midwestern lens.

The episode concludes with reflections on personal style beyond the culinary realm, as John...

In this heartfelt solo episode of House of Style, host Grant Alexander opens up about a week filled with emotional HIGHS and LOWS and unveils his 3-word style mantra to drive success through adversity or anything that comes his way.

From personal tragedies to professional triumphs, Grant shares how these experiences reshaped his perspective on style, success, and the importance of taking action. He reveals his own three words that define his personal style, offering listeners a powerful mantra to overcome adversity and move forward. Tune in to discover how embracing a “get to work” mindset can transform challenges into opportunities and propel you toward your goals.

• Introduction: Reflecting on a Heavy Week
• The True Meaning of Style Beyond Fashion
• Navigating Personal Tragedy and Loss
• Professional Triumphs Amidst Adversity
• The Importance of Taking Action
• Revealing Grant’s Three Words: “Get to Work”
• Encouragement to Listeners: Taking the First Step

Grant begins by acknowledging the past week’s challenges, highlighting how life often presents a mix of highs and lows. He emphasizes that the way we handle these moments defines our personal style and shapes our path to success. This sets the stage for a deep dive into his experiences and the lessons learned.

Expanding on the core mission of the House of Style podcast, Grant discusses how style isn’t confined to fabric, form, or fashion—it’s a way of thinking and being. He introduces the idea that our approach to life’s challenges reflects our true style, resonating with listeners seeking personal growth and authentic living.

Grant opens up about receiving devastating news: the passing of a friend’s parent and the tragic loss of a client’s teenage son. Amidst the backdrop of the U.S. election and societal tensions, these events weighed heavily on him. He shares his strategies for coping with loss and grief while maintaining focus on his goals, emphasizing the importance of resilience and emotional strength.

Despite personal hardships, Grant celebrates significant podcast achievements:

• Reaching Top 150 on Apple Podcasts: The House of Style podcast cracked the charts in the Society and Culture category after just 11 episodes.
• Interest from Sponsors and Agencies: Podcast agencies offered representation, and potential sponsors agreed to meetings.

He reflects on balancing personal struggles with professional success, highlighting how staying motivated during difficult times is crucial for progress.

Grant emphasizes that action is the antidote to stagnation. He discusses overcoming procrastination and the fear of starting, drawing inspiration from James Clear’s “Atomic Habits.” He encourages listeners to take that first step toward their goals, no matter how daunting it may seem.

Answering the question he often poses to his guests—“How do you describe your style in three words?”—Grant reveals his own: “Get to work.” He explains that this mantra embodies a mindset of perseverance, consistent effort, and a commitment to moving forward regardless of obstacles. It’s about transforming challenges into opportunities through proactive action.

In this fun and insightful episode, host Grant Alexander sits down with the charismatic real estate maestro, Alex Wolking. You may not often think about stories and narratives as style, but just wait until you hear from Alex, and you'll discover how storytelling in your style can skyrocket your success.

Alex shares his personal and professional journey, emphasizing the profound impact of storytelling on his unique style and success in real estate, and approach to connecting with clients. The conversation is filled with humor and positivity as Alex discusses the importance of being true to oneself and how this resonates with potential buyers. With anecdotes about his distinctive fashion choices and memorable client interactions, listeners are treated to insights on how narratives can transform both personal and professional experiences. This engaging discussion ultimately showcases the power of embracing one's individuality in a competitive industry.

A second-generation real estate broker with over two decades of experience, Alex has become a powerhouse in Chicago’s dynamic real estate market. Known for his exceptional expertise in historic properties, luxury condos, and co-ops, Alex doesn’t just sell homes—he sells stories. His boutique team consistently ranks among the top producers on Chicago’s north side, and today, he reveals the secrets behind his unique approach.

🎧 What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

• Family Legacy: How growing up in a real estate family ignited Alex’s passion and shaped his understanding of client care.
• Finding His Voice: The moment Alex realized storytelling was his secret weapon in the industry.

• Selling with Stories: How Alex crafts compelling narratives for historic homes, turning properties into living tales that captivate buyers.
• Winning in a Competitive Market: His strategies for standing out using innovative marketing while honoring the timeless charm of the properties.

• Client Connections: Techniques Alex uses to build trust and make lasting impressions through authentic storytelling.
• Balancing Old and New: How he harmonizes modern marketing with traditional real estate values.

• Style Evolution: How Alex’s approach has grown with his real estate career, and what’s next on the horizon.
• Embracing Innovation: New narratives and marketing techniques he’s excited to explore.

• For Professionals: Tips on incorporating storytelling into your own career to create a unique personal brand.
• For Buyers and Sellers: How to find or convey the perfect story for your property.

💡 Why You Can’t Miss This Episode:

• Inspiration: Alex’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and authenticity in achieving success.
• Expert Advice: Gain insider knowledge on how to leverage storytelling in any industry.
• Engaging Stories: From historic mansions to modern condos, hear fascinating anecdotes that bring the world of real estate to life.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Embrace Your Unique Style: Staying true to yourself can set you apart in any...