Ever wonder who handles what when it comes to running a business in Chicago? In this episode of Mind Ya Business, we break down the roles and responsibilities across the City of Chicago, Cook County, and the State of Illinois. From licensing and permits to taxes and regulations, we help business owners navigate the maze of government departments—so you know exactly who to call when “that’s not my department” gets thrown your way. Tune in for practical insights, tips, and real-world examples to keep your business compliant and thriving.

Every entrepreneur has those little habits, mindsets, or “business icks” that creep in and hold them back from real growth. In this episode of Mind Ya Business, we unpack the most common red flags—like overcomplicating your processes, avoiding tough conversations, or getting stuck in social media delusion—that can stall your momentum. Tune in for practical advice and honest reflections on how to spot these sneaky setbacks, shift your approach, and keep your business moving forward.

Too many entrepreneurs treat their ventures like side projects—and it shows. In this episode, we unpack the mindset shift every business owner needs to make: taking your business seriously from day one. From setting up proper systems and pricing strategies to respecting your own time and value, we’ll cover the practical steps that separate a hustle from a business. Whether you’re just starting out or stuck in hobby-mode, this episode will give you the clarity (and push) to level up.

In this episode, we discuss what business owners and entrepreneurs should do once they're ready for that next step in their journey. From who should work in their business in the first few stages, to the development of a full fleshed brand identity, no new business formula is built the same. We're not scared ... and neither should you. Take that leap of faith with us!

Welcome to Mind Ya Business — the podcast where smart moves fuel sustainable growth. Each week we break down the real stuff small business owners need to know — from business planning and branding to operations, and compliance — without the fluff or the fine print. In this episode, our team will introduce themselves, their backgrounds, and respective fields of expertise. We will also talk about the issues and questions small business owners come to us for help when they are just getting started.