Phil Fornaro

Episode 89: Entrepreneurship is Building a Plane Mid-Flight with Ian Duignan

Entrepreneurship & Startups /

Ian Duignan began his career in Dublin as a bar manager, gaining early industry insights before transitioning to sales during the economic recession. At Arnotts, he quickly rose to managerial level, achieving €1.3 million in annual sales. He then joined Apple as a top-trained sales executive, refining his expertise in customer engagement and brand strategy.  […]

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Episode 88: LBM Flash Moments: Cybersecurity in a High-Tech World

Technology, AI & Innovation /

I warn about the rise of sophisticated scams, emphasizing the importance of vigilance—especially with the advent of advanced technologies like ChatGPT. I share personal experiences of intelligent individuals being scammed and advise against sending Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies in response to scams. I suggest letting unknown calls go to voicemail, verifying emails with colleagues, and […]

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Episode 87: Unraveling ESG – A Critical Conversation on Global Power Dynamics with W. David Prescott and Michael Ashley

Community, Nonprofits & Social Impact /

About W. David Prescott: is a licensed geologist and environmental consultant with over 30 years of experience balancing environmental responsibility and economic growth. He holds a Master’s in Environmental Science, an MBA, and is pursuing a Ph.D. in Agricultural Science. His expertise spans groundwater protection, site remediation, and regulatory compliance across complex projects nationwide. A […]

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Episode 86: LBM Flash Moments: Solving Problems Through Strategic Partnerships

Business Growth & Strategy /

I discuss the importance of leveraging personal connections to solve complex problems more efficiently. I emphasize that people are generally willing to help and that building strong relationships can lead to quicker resolutions. I share examples, such as resolving a nine-month accounting issue in five minutes through a strategic partner and expediting a year-long environmental […]

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Episode 85:  Lead with Value, Learn with Purpose with Kevin Cawley

Leadership & Decision Making /

Kevin Cawley launched his career as a union carpenter straight out of high school at just 18 years old. After over a decade in the trades—and a fortunate series of events—CostSegKev was born. His very first client? Neil Gerber of Gerber Collision & Glass. Since then, Kevin has made it his mission to help business […]

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Episode 84: LBM Flash Moments: Breaking Free from Forced Beliefs

Careers & Professional Growth /

I discuss the importance of open-mindedness and avoiding mandates in conversations. I emphasize the value of understanding diverse backgrounds and perspectives, which drives my curiosity and enthusiasm for learning. I criticize the imposition of views and share my own experiences with losing my temper, highlighting the need for humility and the power of admitting mistakes. […]

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Episode 83: Embracing AI’s Transformative Impact with Peter Troost

Technology, AI & Innovation /

Peter has spent his career in commercial software development and has held a succession of CTO and SVP Engineering roles for Boston area software companies, including Wayfair, Acquia, Radius, Rave Mobile Safety, Oracle, edocs and Gillette.  Peter currently serves as the CTO of private equity firm PSG Equity.  Peter received a Master of Science in […]

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Episode 82: LBM Flash Moments: The Ripple Effect of Strategic Networking

Relationships & Communication /

I discuss the evolution of my annual networking event, which began in 2013 in LaGrange, Illinois. What started as a very localized event has evolved into an extraordinary opportunity for people to interact with other like-minded people. The event has grown significantly, with attendees flying in from many different locations, many of whom conduct business […]

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Episode 81: Replenishing Energy and Discovering Purpose with Dr. Olivia Hsu Friedman

Health, Energy & Performance /

Dr. Olivia Hsu Friedman is the owner of Amethyst Holistic Skin Solutions and practices Traditional Chinese Medicine Dermatology, utilizing only herbal medicine in Chicago, Illinois. She earned a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, a diploma in Traditional Chinese Medicine Dermatology from Avicenna UK, and an MSOM from National […]

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Episode 80: LBM Flash Moments: Well-Being Through Alignment of Mind and Body

Health, Energy & Performance /

I discuss the importance of self-care and share my personal experience with the Cleveland Clinic. I credit Jennifer Donnellan from the Health Network Foundation for connecting me to various health specialists. In February 2024, I underwent an extensive executive physical which motivated me to improve my health. I lost weight and started exercising. I highlight […]

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