Holistic Tips to Help Your Picky Eater: Q&A with Samantha Asher
Picky eating is common, but it doesn't make it any less stressful for families. We sat down with Samantha Asher, owner of Green Light Speech Therapy, to discuss her refreshing, holistic approach to feeding therapy—and why starting a garden might just be the secret to helping your picky eater.
The Alchemy of Natural Dyes with Down to Earth Goods
From childhood tie-dye memories to the ancient art of plant-based color, discover the sustainable, "moving meditation" behind natural fabric dyeing. Meet Erica, the textile designer and artistic wizard behind Down to Earth Goods, and learn how she transforms everyday nature into wearable art.
Cultivating the Next Generation: A Visit to The Talking Farm
After becoming a mom, my passion for sustainable food took on a new urgency. Join me for a visit to The Talking Farm, where I chat with their team about urban agriculture and how they’re helping even the youngest "farmers" grow an appreciation for where their food comes from.
Home and Gnome Fest: A Spring Celebration at Frunchroom Collective
There’s no place like home—and the garden. This April, we brought our community together for the inaugural Home and Gnome Fest, a day dedicated to mindful connection, local makers, and spring inspiration. From sourdough bake-offs and seed swaps to wellness workshops and gnome-themed family fun, our time at Frunchroom Collective was truly magical. Read on for the full recap, event highlights, and a look at the incredible local talent that made the day possible.
Jane’s Award-Winning Crunchy Cheesecake Minis
What happens when you combine a zesty almond flour crust with a tangy, Chicago-style filling? You get the recipe I get asked for more than any other. These mini cheesecakes are my go-to for birthdays and holidays, offering a sophisticated, refined sugar-free treat that's as versatile as the seasons.
A Holistic Guide to Spring Cleaning with Ramey Miller
Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a daunting chore. In this insightful guest post, Ramey Miller, founder of Rundeep Cleaning, shares a holistic guide that turns the process of freshening up your home into an uplifting self-care ritual.
Modeling Wellness: Practical Tips for Busy Families with Coach Rebecca Glick
Rebecca is a National Board Certified Functional Medicine Health Coach and the founder of Nefesh Living. A local mom of two, she specializes in helping busy families bridge the gap between "knowing" what’s healthy and actually doing it. See her top tips and get inspired!
Farm-to-Loom: A Conversation with Emily Côté of Remnant Trading Co.
"The universe you create at home is the foundation for all your adventures." Explore the mindful world of Emily Côté, a Chicagoland artisan turning raw wool and organic cotton into functional art. Learn about her journey from farm to loom to farmers’ market.
Run Streak 2.0: What 1,500+ Days of Running Taught Me About Grit
Here is what my run streak taught me about making time for what matters, finding the right gear, and why there’s no such thing as bad weather.
At the Core of Holistic Wellness: Q&A with The Pilates PT
Dr. Rachel Miller blends her passion for Pilates and holistic wellness at her studio, The Pilates PT. Read her story and see her top wellness tips for women.
My Top ‘Crunchy Date’ Destinations in Chicagoland
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, I’ve rounded up the local restaurants and coffee shops I would recommend for a crunchy date with your partner, friends or kids.
Why Go “Micro” Green? A Deep Dive with Local Leaf Farm
Local Leaf Farm is on a mission to connect the community to real food, and prove less is more - especially when it comes to leafy greens and an efficient use of urban space.
Naturopath-Prescribed: Wellness Tips for Winter and Beyond
Naturopath and owner of Nourisherpa, Dr. Jen Stotlar, shares her story and offers simple yet powerful tips for thriving through the thick of Chicago winter.
Crunchy Swaps: DIY Citrus Peel Multi-Purpose Cleaner
Make your own all-natural, multi-purpose cleaner with vinegar and a medley of citrus peels.
Frunchroom Collective: The New Cafe of Your Crunchy Dreams?
Frunchroom Collective co-owners Ivy and her brother, Stu, are creating a third space in Libertyville that invites people to make themselves at home, focusing on genuine connection and self-care. Read our Q&A with Ivy to get the inside scoop.
2025: A Crunchy Year in Photos
What has Crunchy Culture been up to in 2025? Read our year-end recap and check out photos of all the fun!
Is Hemp the New Bamboo? We Ask the Founder of Airetage
Whether you are looking to be more eco-friendly with your clothing choices or eliminate synthetic fibers from your wardrobe, hemp could be the answer. Read our Q&A with Miles to learn what makes this fabric so versatile and sustainable.
Back to the (Farming) Future: Q&A with Three Brothers Farm
A young family in Wisconsin blends regenerative farming practices with innovation and efficiency that lends them more family time. Read the inspiring story of Three Brothers Farm.
A Crunchy Friendsgiving: Our Greenhouse-to-Table Brunch at Eden
We teamed up with Community Dining to host a Friendsgiving Brunch at Eden. Read about our experience at this local, sustainable restaurant that has its own organic greenhouse.
Beyond Farm-to-Table: Q&A with Eden’s Devon Quinn
Rated one of the best farm-to-table restaurants in Chicago, Eden grows many of the herbs you’ll find on the menu in its own organic greenhouse. Learn about the restaurant’s sustainability efforts and community-oriented mission from Chief Culinary Officer and co-founder Devon Quinn.