Podcast Lake County

Leading the fight to conquer arthritis, a condition affecting nearly 60 million adults and 300,000 children in the United States, the Arthritis Foundation continues to raise awareness, advocate for positive policies, fund groundbreaking research, and provide life-changing resources for individuals and families living with arthritis. Jessica Bearak, Executive Director of the Arthritis Foundation, joins us on PODCAST LAKE COUNTY to address some of the most important facts and common misconceptions surrounding arthritis, which is recognized as the nation’s leading cause of disability.
Bearak also shares how the Arthritis Foundation supports patients and their families through education and resources addressing nutrition and diet, mental health, advocacy, community support, a helpline, and Connect Groups. She highlights the importance of understanding arthritis beyond the pain and physical limitations—and how access to information, support, and community can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected.

Sparked in the 1990s by two community leaders responding to growing immigration concerns in Waukegan, HACES has evolved into a vital nonprofit organization providing comprehensive support to individuals and families throughout Lake County and beyond. Today, HACES specializes in legal immigration services, health and wellness programs, education, and community support, expanding its reach well beyond the original meaning of its acronym—Hispanic American Community Education Services. On this episode of PODCAST LAKE COUNTY, Lesley Tenorio, Strategic Engagement Coordinator for HACES, joins us to share the organization’s powerful history, its expanded mission, and the many ways HACES continues to serve the community.

Virginia Gibbs, also known as TAXLADY1040, joins us on Podcast Lake County to highlight the wide range of tax services that her business provides. As a minority-owned, woman-owned, and veteran-owned business celebrating over 10 years of service, Gibbs and her team provide individual tax preparation with the personalization that software packages can't – keeping up-to-date with the changing tax laws. Over the years, she has hosted Tax Talk events for the chamber and offers small business compliance presentations as well. As highlighted on her website, TAXLADY1040.NET -- “We’re a team that knows tax inside and out. We'll answer all of your questions, no matter how big or small they are!”

In the United States, a sexual assault takes place every 68 seconds. Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center, also known as Z Center, is the only state certified rape crisis center in Lake County. Emily Strickland, the Director of Community Services, joins Podcast Lake County to highlight the work of this non-profit organization that provides free, trauma-informed services to survivors of sexual violence and their loved ones, regardless of race, gender, language, ability, or sexual orientation. Serving Lake County for over 40 years, Z Center offers a comprehensive outline of care including medical and legal advocacy; a 24-hour support line; text support line; and across the board guidance with new digital services. In this interview, Strickland shares some of the challenges for the organization; misconceptions; prevention education initiatives; and the various ways that volunteers, businesses and community can support Z Center.

Tom Aridas, Vice President of Local Affairs and Community Relations for North Shore Gas, joins Podcast Lake County to discuss the company's expansive service throughout Lake County and its commitment to supporting the region's continued growth.
Celebrating more than 125 years of service, North Shore Gas provides reliable natural gas service to more than 165,000 residential and business customers across 54 municipalities in Lake County. During this episode, Aridas shares insights into the evolving energy needs of the region as population growth, commercial development, and increasingly energy-intensive operations continue to drive demand.
Listeners will also learn how North Shore Gas is working to ensure dependable energy delivery while investing in energy-efficiency programs that help businesses manage costs, improve sustainability, and support workforce development. Discover how this long-standing utility provider continues to play a vital role in fostering economic growth and strengthening communities throughout Lake County.

In business for over 22 years, Stevens' has established itself as one of Lake County's favorite destinations for exceptional steakhouse dining. Located in Gurnee, Stevens' presents more than just a fine dining experience shares Brad Lehner, General Manager. Enjoy hand-cut steaks, fresh fish delivered daily, weekly specials, and expanded lunch and dinner menu items. Celebrating a special occasion or hosting a private event, consider their private rooms. Stevens' welcomes both reservations and walk-ins. Plus, enjoy live entertainment every Friday with seasonal outdoor dining. Experience the tradition at Stevens', visit stevensofgurnee.com.

Marvin Bembry, President of MKB Leadership and author of the new best-seller, BURN BRIGHT NOT OUT: A Step-by-Step Guide to Maintaining Passion and Energy in Your Professional Life, joins Podcast Lake County for this episode recorded before a live audience. A recognized leadership expert and speaker, Bembry helps professionals and organizations build resilient, high-performing cultures while preventing burnout and sustaining long-term success.

This Mother’s Day special highlights three generations of one family, two of whom are employees at City of Hope, and the diagnosis that changed their lives forever. Our stories connect us, and in this powerful episode of Podcast Lake County, we explore how one family found the strength and resilience to navigate their journey and ensure a meaningful, good goodbye.
 

Donna Langley, owner of Double A Travel, takes us on a tour of the travel industry highlighting popular locations and some of the current trends in travel vacations. Need a Sleepcation? Learn about some of the best places for rest and relaxation; cruising options and details for consideration as you plan your next personal, group or family vacation.

Dr. Carlotta Roman, Chair of the Lake County Workforce Development Board, provides a high-level overview of how her organization is helping to keep Lake County residents employed and businesses competitive. Through strong collaboration with community partners and advisory groups, the Lake County Workforce Development Board and the Job Center of Lake County offer numerous ways for businesses to engage. Using data-driven service models and strategic programming, these organizations are strengthening the local economy while building a vital youth-to-career pipeline that attracts, trains, and retains a skilled workforce for the future.