Phil Fornaro

In Episode 20 of Light Bulb Moments, I sit down with Maria Marciniec, the owner of TATES Old Fashioned Ice Cream. Located in LaGrange, TATES is a destination where families can slow down, share smiles, and enjoy the charm of a simpler, old-fashioned era. Maria’s journey through various industries—from her family’s food business, Mr. Quicks, […]

In Episode 19 of Light Bulb Moments, I sit down with Tina Rounds, a dynamic nonprofit leader recognized for her work as the CEO of BEDS Plus. Since 2012, Tina has transformed BEDS into a leading provider of HUD-funded housing services, skillfully expanding the agency’s client base and budget, while navigating complex zoning issues to

In Episode 17 of Light Bulb Moments, I sit down with Scott Schamber, Partner & Managing Director of BFI Bullion, where he leads a team specializing in the purchase and secure storage of physically allocated metals in Switzerland. With over two decades of experience at BFI Bullion, Scott has been instrumental in helping clients safeguard their

In Episode 16 of Light Bulb Moments, I sit down with Janet Garreau, a nonprofit leader who has been transforming communities through her dedication to serving older adults. Since 2016, Janet has been at the helm of programs that connect older adults with essential services, helping them maintain their independence and improve their quality of

The 2024 Brew Moon Beer & Band Festival is just around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be the largest beer-tasting event in the western suburbs. Brew Moon isn’t just about enjoying great beers—it’s about community and collaboration. The festival is a partnership between local businesses, municipalities, and civic groups, coming together for a

In Episode 15 of Light Bulb Moments, I’ll be speaking with Steve Palmer, a seasoned entrepreneur and community leader with over three decades of experience. Since 2022, Steve has owned the Stadium Club at the MAX, and he previously owned Palmer Place Restaurant in LaGrange from 1990 to 2021. In addition to his business ventures,

In Episode 14 of Light Bulb Moments, I’ll be speaking with Bill Carney, a seasoned finance professional with a passion for fostering growth through community connections. Bill holds a degree in Economics from the University of Illinois and has spent over two decades in finance and operations, including leadership roles at Mesirow Financial and Incapital.

In Episode 13 of Light Bulb Moments, I’ll be speaking with Ryan Williamson, a dedicated financial advisor with over two decades of experience. Since 2000, Ryan has been providing tailored financial guidance, emphasizing the uniqueness of each client’s needs and goals. He is the author of Drafting Your Financial Quarterback: What You Need to Know

In Episode 12 of Light Bulb Moments, I’ll be speaking with Joe Shadle, President of Tax Relief, Inc. Joe is an Enrolled Agent, National Tax Practitioners Institute Fellow, and a financial services veteran with experience spanning New York, New Jersey, and Florida. He’s worked in disaster relief loans for the Small Business Administration and is