What if shopping wasn’t just about buying things, but a whole new way of living? Imagine a future where browsing clothes is fun, personal, and wildly creative — an experience so revolutionary it topples outdated retail giants the way Amazon reshaped e-commerce. That’s exactly what we’re building at House of Style. If you’ve ever been let down by soulless stores or websites pushing endless products, get ready for a seismic shift. We’re tearing the old system down to build something extraordinary — and you can be part of it.

For many weeks, Grant promised he'd share what's in store for House of Style beyond the podcast. Well, it's here!

Welcome to the House of Style “Revolution in Retail” series — a five-part series into the most ambitious transformation Retail (and shopping) has seen since Amazon. Across these episodes, Grant Alexander, founder of House of Style, shares the vision, technology, and people-first philosophy behind a brand-new retail ecosystem that seamlessly blends creativity, sustainability, and advanced technology/AI. This is retail built for you, not a system trying to box you in.

Episodes in the series:

• Discover why retail is failing you and how the current “mass production, minimal creativity” model got us here.
• Hear the origins of House of Style and its plan to upend everything you dislike about traditional shopping.
• Learn about the massive $40M pre-seed goal that’s catching the eye of bold investors — and scaring old-guard retailers.

• Step into a future where shopping is part experience, part community hub, and part entertainment venue.
• See why House of Style’s upcoming Style Houses will have you dining, dancing, and discovering new looks—all in one space.
• Learn how we’re transforming big-box emptiness into vibrant social experiences.

• Explore how House of Style replaces endless racks with curated looks that inspire you and make shopping so much better.
• Find out how advanced AI and personal e-wardrobes can transform your closet from a chaotic mess into a source of daily style.
• Get the inside scoop on how monetizing creativity is the next frontier in retail and shopping.

• Hear how House of Style becomes net-zero from day one and enforces real sustainability standards on every brand partner.
• Understand how we’re treating employees like family, with fair pay and benefits that redefine the HR rulebook.
• Discover how supply chains can be ethical and profitable if we just care enough to do it right.

• Find out why House of Style is more than a shopping platform — it’s a cultural shift reminiscent of the Renaissance.
• Listen to the bold claims on how we’ll spark new levels of artistry and collaboration among designers, brands, and customers.
• Learn how you can invest, get involved, or simply follow along as we usher in a new era of retail.

Because the time for a revolution is now. The old ways of retail aren’t just outdated—they’re broken. If you’ve ever dreamed of a shopping experience that empowers instead of frustrates, or an investment that boldly challenges everything stale about modern commerce, then House of Style is your beacon of possibility. Tune in, share with friends, and be part of redefining how people shop, connect, and

Join us for a funny, lighthearted, and casual bonus episode featuring the delightful Markie Martin from NewsNation's Morning in America, where we get into a quick-fire questions revealing Markie's preferences, from her favorite coffee choices to her love for country music. Markie shares her admiration for both Cuomo and Banfield, highlighting the unique skills each brings to their shows. The conversation flows as we discuss the refreshing nature of NewsNation, which strives to deliver news without bias, allowing viewers to form their own opinions. With plenty of laughs and personal anecdotes, this episode is a fun dive into the world of news and the connections it fosters across the globe.

Markie Martin joins Grant Alexander in this awesome bonus episode of House of Style, where they chat about into the world of television news and personal passion. The conversation kicks off with a playful debate about favorite NewsNation hosts, Cuomo and Banfield, highlighting the distinct qualities that each brings to their shows. Markie expresses her admiration for both, particularly Banfield's long-standing commitment to true crime journalism, which she finds captivating and authentic. The two hosts share their mutual love for NewsNation's approach to news reporting, emphasizing its refreshing lack of opinion and bias — a rarity in today's media landscape. This focus on delivering news without the clutter of editorializing is a breath of fresh air for viewers, and they discuss how it fills a gap for audiences seeking straightforward news coverage.

As the discussion unfolds, Markie reflects on her experiences as a television personality and the joy of connecting with viewers from all over the world. She shares heartwarming anecdotes of receiving messages from fans in far-off places, reinforcing the impact of her work. Grant and Markie also touch upon the fast-paced nature of news broadcasting, where each moment brings a new story, keeping them on their toes — a stark contrast to the monotony of corporate jobs. The episode takes a lighter turn with rapid-fire questions, revealing Markie’s preferences for coffee and possibly independent coffee shops over chains, showcasing her personality beyond her professional role. They discuss her love for country music and Grant's family's budding musical interests, creating a warm and relatable atmosphere that resonates with listeners.

The episode wraps up with reflections on the importance of authenticity in media and the unique challenges and rewards of being in the public eye. Markie's insights into the evolving nature of news consumption highlight a significant trend: the audience's desire for a balanced perspective. The candid and fun conversation between Grant and Markie not only entertains but also provides a thoughtful exploration of the role of media personalities in shaping public discourse and connecting with viewers on a personal level. This episode is a delightful blend of professional insights and personal anecdotes, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in news media and the personalities behind it.

Takeaways:

• Markie Martin expresses her admiration for anchors Chris Cuomo and Ashleigh Banfield's unique talents.
• Markie enjoys the refreshing, opinion-free news format of NewsNation and its appeal.
• The connection with viewers from around the world is a rewarding aspect of being on TV.
• Markie shares her excitement about storytelling in broadcasting and how it keeps her engaged.
• The hosts discuss the challenge of choosing between favorite news personalities, revealing a lighthearted camaraderie.
• Markie reflects on her missed opportunity to see Shania Twain live, sharing a humorous anecdote.

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Ready for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the wild side of real estate? In this bonus content, we’re back with Chicago real estate guru Alex Wolking, who peels back the curtain on some of his craziest showings—from stumbling upon unsuspecting tenants in their birthday suits to discovering spooky surprises in the attic. If you ever wondered what really goes on when a house hits the market, buckle up for these hilarious, haunted, and downright awkward tales!

In Alex’s main episode, we explored his journey from a driven Midwestern kid who knew he wanted to sell homes by age 12, to becoming a top-producing broker in one of the nation’s most competitive markets. We dug into how he built a brand by combining genuine warmth, data-driven insights, and out-of-the-box marketing strategies. Alex also revealed how he stays inspired—citing interior design, modern architecture, and that Midwestern charm as key facets of his success. Now, in this bonus session, it’s time for a lighter (and spicier) side of real estate!

• Naked Showings: The unexpected (and often hilarious) moments Alex encounters when tenants don’t get the memo.
• Ghostly Encounters: From eerie attics to strange temperature drops, Alex shares the one property that made him a total believer in haunted houses.
• Scandalous Situations: That time Alex’s clients nearly caught a secret affair in progress!
• Real Estate Shenanigans: Find out how listing agents, suburban showings, and “mysterious disclaimers” keep Alex on his toes.

• Hilarious Real Estate Confessions: A comedic glimpse into what doesn’t make the polished listings.
• Behind-the-Scenes Insights: Learn how even top brokers face chaotic surprises—and handle them with grace.
• Carryover from Main Episode: Build on the deeper story of Alex’s ascent into real estate stardom with these entertaining extras.

• Have you had a haunted or hilariously awkward house experience? Let us know in the comments or on socials.
• Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this bonus episode with anyone who could use a laugh (or a ghost story)!

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.

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Whether you’re a longtime fan of Ambitious Kitchen or new to Monique Volz’s incredible story, this bonus episode is packed with relatable moments, laughter, and insights you won’t want to miss. 🎧

👉 Don’t forget to check out the main episode for even more inspiration and wisdom! AND share this with a friend who loves food, laughs, and personal growth!

In this exclusive bonus episode of House of Style, we continue our conversation with Monique Volz, the creative force behind Ambitious Kitchen, as we get into a lighthearted and revealing discussion filled with laughter, personal stories, and candid confessions. As a New York Times Bestselling cookbook author and renowned food blogger, Monique opens up about her favorite recipes, kitchen quirks, and unexpected mishaps, offering fans a more intimate glimpse into her life beyond the blog.

If you loved the main episode — titled From 9-5 to NYT Bestseller: Ambitious Kitchen’s Recipe for Success — where Monique shared her incredible journey from corporate life to building a thriving brand that inspires millions, you’re in for a treat.

This bonus content explores the lighter, more personal side of Monique’s world, taking listeners on a delightful journey through her culinary escapades. Grant Alexander engages her in a very real, very fun conversation where humor and genuine anecdotes are flowing.

Monique reveals her all-time favorite recipes, showcasing a blend of nostalgia and creativity. With a penchant for baking, she highlights her Gluten-free, grain-free Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake, a hidden gem on her website that she feels is underrated and that Grant pokes fun saying she'll use this chance to make it less so.

Their banter encapsulates friends talking about the real things, and for Monique, the essence of a passionate chef, as she reflects on the importance of family-friendly recipes and the memories associated with her mother’s Puerto Rican rice and beans, which serve as a comforting reminder of her childhood.

Grant asks about Monique’s kitchen quirks and mishaps, where we learn of a funny and memorable experience with lentil cookies that should've left her first intern questioning her culinary judgment. Grant and Monique share more laughs over the relatable chaos of cooking and the challenges of maintaining success with SEO and the rise of AI-generated recipes, where Monique candidly expresses her concerns about SEO and traffic, revealing the entrepreneurial side of her journey that often goes unnoticed.

Here's a glimpse of Monique's personal world that is engaging, lighthearted, and fun.

🌟 Kitchen Chaos: Monique reveals her most hilarious recipe fail — yes, it involves cooked lentil cookies!

🌟 Childhood Nostalgia: Discover why Puerto Rican rice and beans hold a special place in Monique’s heart.

🌟 Surprising Fears: Learn about Monique’s concerns as a food entrepreneur in the ever-changing world of SEO and AI.

🌟 Quirky Habits: Did you know Monique always leaves her kitchen cabinets open when cooking?

🌟 Proud Moments: Hear about the milestones, from her first 50,000 page views to making the New York Times Bestseller list.

In the full episode, Monique takes us through her journey from working a 9-5 corporate job at General Mills to becoming a top food blogger and a published author. She discusses the challenges she faced, including personal

Prepare for a refreshingly fun conversation as Monique Volz — the New York Times Bestselling Cookbook Author and trailblazer behind Ambitious Kitchen — reveals how she transformed her life from a typical 9-5 job at General Mills, replaced her income by becoming a content creator before that was a thing, and created a flourishing brand rooted in ambition, mindful eating and culinary creativity.

In this episode, Monique shares stories about her eating disorder recovery, the power of healing through food, and the community that turned her healthy recipes into an online sensation. Whether you’re curious about balanced lifestyles, eager to embrace a style beyond fashion and food, or seeking genuine inspiration for personal growth, Monique’s journey offers a blueprint for using ambition to make your dreams a reality.

Eating Disorder Recovery

Monique opens up about the emotional roller coaster of facing her relationship with food and how confronting personal challenges led her to rediscover the simple joys of cooking and living well to overcome her eating disorder.

Empowering Self-Care

Learn how confronting internal obstacles can result in newfound motivation, creativity, and a sense of freedom — in the kitchen, your personal brand, and life.

From 9-5 to Food Blogger

Hear how a day job at General Mills didn’t stop Monique from experimenting with homemade recipes, exploring healing through food, and ultimately cultivating the Ambitious Kitchen brand.

She was able to leave her 9-5 and replace her income through becoming a content creator... before it was the thing to do!

Community at the Core

Discover how Monique credits her supportive online following and her passion for mindful eating for propelling her to NYT Bestseller status — proving that your audience can become your greatest advocate.

Being a Mom of Three & Business Owner

Monique discusses her strategies for juggling parenting, personal health, and an ever-evolving entrepreneurial path — reminding us that success requires recognizing and doing the hard work, and allowing others to help.

Mindful Entrepreneurship

Explore the elements that keep Monique’s creative spark alive: reflection, focusing on the “why,” and having the courage to experiment when opportunities or new platforms arise.

Tangible Inspiration

Looking to pivot careers or reignite your passion project? Monique’s firsthand experiences offer practical, uplifting guidance for anyone chasing big dreams.

Inclusive Approach

Whether your personal style is about fueling a bustling household or turning a hobby into a global platform, this episode is loaded with universal lessons in culinary creativity and beyond.

Feel-Good Insights

From cultivating healthy recipes to forming a loyal community, get inspired to elevate your habits, perspective, and sense of personal fulfillment.

Dive into this engaging interview and discover how the Ambitious Kitchen mentality [and NYT Bestselling Cookbook] can shift your mindset, nourish your goals, and help you embrace a richer, more...

Welcome to this special episode of the House of Style where we explore the world of culinary innovation and the essence of style beyond fashion in everything we do. Today’s guest? The one and only chef Joe Sasto — a culinary innovator whose passion for pasta and distinctive style — and mustache — have made him a standout in the gastronomic world, and not just because he’s appeared on Bravo’s Top Chef or Food Network competitions like Chopped and Tournament of Champions.

In this episode, we venture into Joe’s backstory — from his first sparks of creativity in the kitchen with Hamburger Helper to the experiences that shaped him into a household name. We also explore how his unwavering dedication, passion, and talent in cooking, plus his refusal to follow the herd, helped him emerge as a true innovator.

• Behind the scenes of Top Chef and Food Network: Discover how Joe honed his craft under pressure and why embracing challenges led to transformative growth.
• Innovative Success Mindset: Get an understanding for the methods, mindsets, and meticulous prep that help Joe stay at the forefront of culinary trends, where his success through style continues to inspire a new playbook for success in the culinary industry.
• Success through Style: Hear why Joe believes that cultivating a personal style and personal brand — both as a chef and entrepreneur — is key to standing out. Understand how your personal narrative can become your strongest asset in a crowded field.

Heard of Tantos Puffed Pasta Chips? Joe’s latest venture reimagines pasta as a crispy, snackable treat. This section of the podcast uncovers the story behind Tantos!, offering a blueprint for turning big ideas into reality:

• How a simple “what if?” moment led to a must-try snack.
• The secret sauce to scaling production without losing the magic of handmade quality.
• Joe’s insight on balancing creativity with business demands in a rapidly changing market.

• Chef Joe Sasto's cooking class tips: Get a peek into his teaching philosophy—why he urges cooks to break rules only after mastering them.
• Recipe Inspiration: Why simple ingredients can yield extraordinary dishes, and how to experiment fearlessly.
• Creativity in the kitchen: Discover how self-expression and problem-solving collide to birth revolutionary dishes.

Follow Joe + try Tantos! Puff Pasta Chips and taste the future of pasta-inspired snacking!

Try Tantos!

Joe's Website

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In our own Wicked Part 2, the wicked style of marketing and business strategy is as captivating as the Wicked film itself, redefining what success looks like in the entertainment industry. Grant Alexander takes us on a journey through the innovative strategies employed by Wicked’s marketing team, showcasing how authenticity and strategic engagement turned casting announcements into heartfelt moments. By embracing a lived-in color palette of pink and green and creating immersive brand experiences, they fostered a sense of community and excitement that transcended the screen. This episode dives into the seamless blend of business practices and artistic expression, proving that style is not just about fashion, but about the choices that resonate with audiences. With witty insights and clever puns, this analysis highlights how Wicked is not merely selling tickets; it’s crafting a cultural movement that captivates fans worldwide.

Exploring the intricate web of marketing and branding, this episode explains the success of Wicked's film adaptation and how it transcends traditional promotional strategies. Grant presents a compelling argument that the stylistic choices made in the film's marketing are as crucial as its artistic elements.

Grant emphasizes the importance of authenticity, showcasing how lead actors Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo lived their roles both on and off-screen, creating a genuine connection with their audience. The strategic use of social media to announce casting was more than just a PR move; it represented a paradigm shift in how fans engage with their favorite stars, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of community.

Moreover, the episode highlights Wicked's marketing team’s innovative approaches, from taking the REAL train from Oz through Paris for the Olympics and vibrant red carpet appearances that reflect character traits to collaborations with over 400 brands, effectively turning everyday products into extensions of the Wicked experience.

This thoughtful branding strategy has not only captured the attention of diverse audiences but also created a cultural movement, uniting fans under the iconic pink and green banners.

As the episode progresses, listeners learn about the staggering $150 million marketing budget, revealing how strategic spending can redefine success in a fragmented media landscape. Ultimately, the episode asserts that Wicked's marketing campaign is a case study in authenticity and strategic engagement, proving that style in business is about resonating with audiences on a deeper level.

This episode complements ourWicked Part 1 discussion on the defying gravity visuals, so if you missed that, watch or listen after this!

1. Strategic Pre-Launch Buzz: We uncover how wicked behind the scenes insights—from Ariana Grande’s heartfelt Instagram announcements and Cynthia Erivo's casting news—built hype for the film’s arrival on a deeper personal level.
2. Cross-Community Collaborations: Explore the Wicked collaborations that turned Wicked news into a cultural phenomenon. Partnerships with over 400 brands made everything Wicked including co-branded merch, food and beverages, and experiences a key aspect of the movie’s marketing.
3. Authentic Engagement: We break down how genuine connections between the Wicked cast, press tour events, and social...

In this first part of our Wicked: Part 1 analysis, we’re leaving the Mocha Mousse color talk for another day, putting on our pink and green, well, everything, and focusing on the artistic style that made Wicked a record-breaking phenomenon. We’re diving into all of Oz and beyond — from wicked behind the scenes stories to the mesmerizing sets, live singing, and cinematography that set this musical-turned-movie apart. Whether you’re a longtime theater fan enthralled by the potential and excitement in The Wizard and I, or someone brand new who discovered the show through a Wicked trailer reaction on TikTok or saw Ariana Grande and Bowen Yang on SNL, this episode has something for you.

*Please leave us a review and let us know what you think of our show (and Wicked)!*

We’ll touch on iconic musical moments and what went into the making of “Defying Gravity” and “Popular,” where Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande performed stunts while singing to perfection, to how Jonathan Bailey’s big moment in “Dancing Through Life” was yet another example of set perfection, and even "One Short Day," revealing how each scene was painstakingly crafted to feel both cinematic and theatrical… especially with bringing back the Wicked legends and OG’s Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel! Fans weary of the Broadway adaptation will appreciate understanding how the Wicked movie soundtrack was developed with a blend of tradition and innovation, and how Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s approach to singing live connects back to the original staging.

Get the full Wicked recap as we discuss the infamous Wicked interviews and press tour, the Wicked cast, and how Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s dedication to the project influenced the final outcome. For those who enjoy a Wicked reaction or reading a Wicked: Part 1 movie review, we’ll explain how choices in makeup, set design, and costumes created the perfect style environment for a story that resonates globally — even beyond the endless Wicked collabs and merchandising, and into the heart of fans. Don’t you wish you had Wicked stocks?! Discover why the attention to detail, from painting floors to forging a real train, creates an intimacy and style often missing in big blockbuster adaptations.

From a Wicked movie review angle, we’re not just praising the film; we’re breaking down its style and how it did what others often fail to do—keep the theater’s soul alive on screen and create a community for all fans to love. The Wicked audience reaction has proven that authenticity and respect for the source material matter.

We’ll also preview our Wicked Part 2 video, discussing Wicked’s style from a business, Marketing, and PR perspective. If you’re curious about how this adaptation matches up against fan-favorite moments and other Wicked reactions, this episode will give you new reasons to fall in love with the film’s artistry. While we wait a year for the next movie to come out, we’ll hold our breath to maybe be holding space with the cast in person during the next Wicked: Part 2 press tour.

So settle in, and let’s celebrate Wicked, explained — the choices and artistic style that turned a beloved stage musical into a cinematic experience worth remembering. Before we get caught up in trends like Mocha Mousse, let's not forget Wicked pink and green will be around at least another year, so let’s savor the timeless elegance that only careful, imaginative artistic style can achieve.

If you're inspired by Wicked's incredible style, don't forget to...