How Entrepreneur, Nicole & Her Sisters Launched Blowout Junkie: The Wins, Losses & Big pivots

Hi all!

Interested to hear how my next guest went from teacher to co-founder of one of Chicago’s premier blowout bars, with not just one, but 3 locations?

Nicole Karkalis, alongside her 2 sisters, Tina & Dora (all creative geniuses), took a risk and opened Blowout Junkie in 2014. At this point, Blowout Bars were mostly nonexistent in Chicago -- some may have even thought they were a bit crazy. But 7 years later, with 3 locations (River North, Lincoln Park, the West Loop) their chairs stay full, and the music and energy high.

This episode gives an inside look of an entrepreneur’s story. These 3 women not only launched a successful brand, but did it coming from different careers, as mothers, wives and sisters. We get to hear about working with siblings, overcoming obstacles, managing a business during the pandemic and how truly important your cheer squad and team is through life’s many curveballs.

I’m in awe of these women and how they wear their many hats so gracefully. It’s a testament that so long as you have a burning desire to succeed, you can make it work.

Why is this all so important?

Smart is the New Sexy is here to show through the stories of others that if you want change, you are capable of it! Your current career and degree doesn’t have to dictate your life’s full story and you’re capable of sustaining, even growing during tough times. It’s all about looking forward and not getting stuck in the mud. It’s your metamorphosis giving you the wings to fly.

If you know someone with an inspiring story that can motivate and help others grow, we'd love to hear from you! Please reach out here and tell us a little more about them or you!

Follow Blowout Junkie on instagram and schedule your first glam session with them!

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Hey! I’m Arsiak.

Hi I’m Arsiak Vartenian and I’m the Founder and Host of ‘Smart is the New Sexy’ an uplifting talk show and online platform that highlights the power of dreaming big through storytelling, connection, community, and heart.

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