About Us
Who We Are
The ConduitChicago.com, formerly TheConduitMagazine.com, brings together arts and entertainment elements that are uniquely Chicago. There are many websites listing activities, artists, and events; however the founder, Brian Bodik and his partners saw a need for shining the spotlight on our very own, unique up and coming talent and artists. That’s what distinguishes us from the crowd: in all our reports, reviews, blogs, coverage, features and blurb – there will always be a Chicago connection.
Given the vast pool of talent and budding artists in Chicagoland, we’re particularly fond of spotting those folks who are destined for greatness. In so covering, we’ll be able to reveal to you the secrets, tricks, lucky breaks, and inside information that helped them catch our attention, impress us, and exceed our expectations. It’s our hope that ConduitChicago.com will do the same with you.
Brian Bodik, founder of ConduitChicago.com, multi-tasks like a mad-man…such that his bio is still pending. Check back soon!
Sarah Maehl got her bachelor's degree in English from Beloit College in Wisconsin, where she studied under poets Bei Dao and Billy Collins, and she is currently working on her MA in Literature at Northwestern University. Sarah's interests mostly hover around books, arts, and film; she spends her free time reading, cooking, and thinking of cool things to say in case she meets a famous person while waiting for the CTA. She currently lives in Wicker Park.
Angel Angelique “Jamms” Johnson, affectionately know as Angel, began singing at the age of five in the church choir. Since 1992, Angel has been a Charter Member of the Chicago recording group, William Smith Jr. and the Renewed Voices for Christ, featured on the Oprah Show in 2005 & Good Morning America in 2006. Renewed Voices also released their sophomore CD in the spring of 2008. Angel has performed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and has provided back round vocals for Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder and Phyllis Hyman and many other artists in the US and internationally. She has a BA in Political Science and is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Global Business Management. In addition, being a performer for over 20 years in the entertainment world gives Angelique “Jamms” Johnson a bird’s eye view on how to communicate with her peers. Through Angel’s creative writing and interviewing style, she gives a fair and accurate account of their careers.
Miguel Lopez is a southside Chicago native, and enjoys a good movie from time to time, but he truly relishes going to live music performances every chance he can get. He has a very eclectic taste in the arts, and is willing to try different things to break from daily monotony. He graduated Roosevelt Univeristy in 2008 with a BA in Integrated Communications with a concentration in Public Relations, and he continues to find interest in learning a little about everything, and sharing those ideas with anyone willing to listen.
Kevin Mole, creative director/finance, grew up in the Chicago area and has always had an affinity for the arts; however his formal training is in finance, working as an investment banker and a consultant. In 2004, Kevin founded Helping Each Other Art, which existed to help raise money for early childhood development while promoting local Chicago artists. Recently, Kevin has played a large role in producing events under the name of Cultural Xchange, sponsored by the Conduit Magazine, in Wicker Park. Additionally, Kevin has served on the Board of Directors of two local children’s non-profit organizations. In his free time, Kevin paints, designs stained glass, and trains for triathlons.
Cathy Rubey, senior editor and contributor, graduated Indiana University with a degree in Radio/TV/Film from the School of Telecommunications in 1992. Upon graduation, she focused on the advertising and marketing aspect of her training, designing and implementing several national product marketing campaigns and promotional materials, and writing advertising copy for radio and television commercials. Catherine’s combined business and creative experience and expertise have also converged in the development of a feature film, Holiday Baggage, starring Barry Bostwick and Cheryl Ladd, and a production company, Baggage, LLC. Please visit www.baggagethefilm.com. Her ability to inspire and motivate both Michigan Avenue financial institutions as well as the individual investor speaks to her love and enthusiasm for both the entrepreneurial spirit and her business ventures. Cathy is proud, happy, and thrilled to be a part of the ConduitChicago.com team!
Lauren Taylor, a native of Memphis, TN, ventured to Chicago 7 years ago to pursue acting. Lauren is also a freelance writer, creator of girlyourenotalone.com and whatever else she can throw on her plate. Her recurring feature “Cheap Date” pulls together economically friendly outings offered as ConduitChicago.com’s own stimulus package.
