Rich Conversations: 022. Justina Nyguyen

Show notes from episode 022 of Rich Conversations with Justina Nguyen. Answers are cut down to fit into writing format.

How long have you lived in Chicago?

I moved here in the summer 2008, so it’s coming up on twelve years. I moved here after college—University of Texas-Austin.

What’s your neighborhood like?

I’m in Wicker Park. I’ve been here the entire time but bounced around a couple areas. When I moved here, there was already gentrification going on. It was more of a mixed crowd. Some of the staples are gone, like Double Door. Some of the larger restaurant groups and retail have moved in.

If you have an open Saturday, how would you choose to spend it?

Lately, at home with my cat. I do a lot of things. I have a full-time job and but also six or seven side hustles I enjoy doing. So any time I have to myself is something I fight for. Otherwise, in the summer I’d be riding around on my motorbike. Spending time with close friends. I travel for work and play.

When you think of Chicago, what colors do you imagine first?

I think currently it’s grey. We’ve got no sun in the winter and the snow on the ground for days. Blue because of the river and how it reflects off of buildings and the flag.

What’s your proudest moment as a Chicagoan?

I feel like in the last couple years, being part of this bigger movement of highlighting Chicago culture. Using it as a way to bring forth cause. I think Chicago gets overlooked compared to LA and New York City. It’s really rich with culture here.

If someone were to visit you from out of town, what restaurant would you take them to?

A few places I’d suggest. My favorite Ramen place: Wasabi. For an interesting ambiance: Beatnik in West Town—you kind of feel like you’re in a Moroccan rainforest. Fried chicken: The Roost, Honey Butter Fried Chicken, Crisp, Great Sea Restaurant in Albany Park. For brunch: Uncle Mike’s Place.

What’s your hidden gem in the city?

Garfield Park Conservatory. It’s a tranquil escape in the city. Ten Cat, California Clipper, Café Central, and Bernice’s Tavern. I feel like hidden gems are all over the city.

What sound do you most affiliate with Chicago?

The train.

What music influenced you the most during your time in the city?

“Electric Feel” by MGMT came out my first winter here. Chicago opened my eyes to house music and electronic music. And the fact that Chicago is a music mecca—everyone comes through here. You can hear some of the best and emerging artists—it’s something that’s kept me here.

What’s a common scene you see in your daily interaction with the city?

Traffic. I take a lot of Ubers to work and every time I get to Ohio Street bridge, it’s always backed up.

If you were given secret information that Chicago were to be destroyed in one week, what’s one quality you would keep to rebuild the city?

Chicago is really rich in culture and diversity, and I think that’s what makes it such an awesome city. In a rebuild, I would make neighborhoods more integrated.

What’s one small thing would you do to improve your neighborhood or the city as a whole?

I feel like I’m doing my part in some of the things I do. I’m part of a nonprofit called One Million Degrees. They pair professionals with community college students who are trying to get their associate’s degree. It’s a really well run organization.

When people learn you’re from Chicago, how do they respond and what’s your reaction?

I get two responses: “Damn! It’s cold there. Why would you do that to yourself?” or “That’s awesome!” The culture sells it.

When you feel overwhelmed or need a mental escape but can’t leave the city, where do you go to clear your mind?

I’ve been lucky enough to have DJ gigs every week. I get completely lost in my craft. It’s a way for me to meditate.

What’s something you’re curious about recently?

Survivalist culture is something recent. Learning how political climate affects people’s actions. It’s based in fear.

Within the past five years, what personal realization has improved your outlook on life the most?

You can’t be perfect. Understanding that you can’t control everything. I’m kind of Type-A and a perfectionist, but you have to roll with the punches. You have to view it as a learning experience and not hold resentment at people or of things. You have to have empathy. Another is a concept called Ikigai. It’s a Japanese word for purpose in life. It’s the center of a Venn diagram of what you’re good at, what you’re passionate about, what makes you money, and what the world needs.

What’s something you’re excited or dream about in the future?

I recently was in New York and decided I wanted to make the transition. I think I’m ready to leave Chicago and conquer New York.