Jason Stallard is the Executive Director and Founder of Love Local Chicagoland, a media and storytelling platform devoted to elevating the people, places, and stories that give local communities their character and strength. Rooted in a deep belief in connection, Jason founded Love Local Chicagoland to reflect the heartbeat of the communities we live in and to help foster a stronger sense of belonging across them.

Through video, podcasting, and on-the-ground conversations with Local Talks events, Jason brings visibility to the individuals, organizations, and everyday stories shaping community life. Love Local Chicagoland’s work centers on key local pillars, including nonprofits, small businesses, social services, arts and culture, community wellness, and youth development. Jason believes that by focusing on these pillars and giving voice to the stories within them, we help build communities that are more connected, more resilient, and stronger places to live.

At the core of his work is the conviction that we are stronger together, and that storytelling has the power to create a ripple effect, one that inspires support for local businesses, strengthens nonprofit impact, and encourages people to see one another with greater care and purpose. Through Love Local Chicagoland, Jason is committed to helping communities feel seen, valued, and united through stories that uplift and bring people closer together.