Phil Fornaro

Episode 130: Rooted in Relationships with Chris Johnson

With over 20 years of business experience building others’ ventures and his own entrepreneurial endeavors, Chris has developed extensive expertise in sales, planning, budgeting, forecasting, staff management, relationship building, public relations, and marketing across various industries nationwide. Personable and articulate, he has the ability to connect with diverse clientele and carries a proven track record […]

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Episode 129: LBM Flash Moments: Communication Is The Root of All Connection

I discuss the importance of communication, emphasizing that it is a top problem in various settings, including work and personal life. I share my experience of reconnecting with high school friends through a golf outing and highlight the significance of traditions. I stress the need for effective listening and asking clarifying questions to ensure understanding.

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Episode 128: LBM Flash EVENT: Brew Moon 2025

Brew Moon Beer & Band Fest is an annual beer-tasting and music festival held in McCook, Illinois. Attendees sample craft brews from local breweries in an indoor, park-like setting, then enjoy live bands and entertainment. Proceeds this year support the Chicagoland Area Alternative Education League (CAAEL) and UCP Seguin of Greater Chicago. Date: Saturday, 10/8/25,

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Episode 127: Daily Practices That Fuel Resilience And Productivity with Stef Schodrof

Stefanie Schodrof is the founder of SENSEORY, a wellness-forward brand combining science-backed tools, essential oils, and a free mobile app to elevate everyday and workplace well-being. With 14+ years in wellness and 20+ years in corporate leadership across private/public equity, she blends business acumen with holistic health expertise. A certified barre and Lagree instructor, Stefanie

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Episode 126: LBM Flash Moments: Reaching Higher By Reflecting Deeper

I celebrate the LBM podcast’s achievement of being in the top 3% of all podcasts with 108,000 podcasts, following 3.9 million. I aim to reach the top 1% by year-end. I discuss the importance of perspective in dealing with problems, sharing a personal anecdote about my wife’s advice on problem-solving. I emphasize the need for

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Episode 125: Keys To Growth And Fulfillment with Vijay Rao

Vijay Rao is the co-CIO for a Chicago-based family office.  He provides strategic and financial advisory services to the company, which include capital formation and strategic partnerships.  He holds an MBA from the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business and a BA from the University of Iowa. Why This Episode Matters  This episode is

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Episode 124: LBM Flash Moments: Vision, Patience, and Progress

I share my vision for Fornaro Law, aiming to serve high-growth clients with an Outside General Counsel model. I emphasize the importance of patience in achieving goals, citing my strategic networking with family offices and ultra-high net worth individuals. I also mention Vijay Rao, a key collaborator, and the benefits of delegation and visioning. Connect

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Episode 123: Building Stronger Teams And Better Leaders with Glenn Gottfried

Mr. Gottfried is a highly accomplished strategic advisor and investor who assists executive teams in developing, planning, and executing business strategies and models that have the opportunity to accelerate company growth and disrupt the markets they serve. Glenn’s insights help teams formulate a clear tactical execution plan to take a commanding position in their market.

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Episode 122: LBM Flash Moments: When Innovation Meets Connection

I discuss the importance of innovation and networking, sharing experiences from recent events and meetings. I emphasize that criticism for doing something different should be seen as a badge of honor, indicating innovation. I recount meeting new contacts at the Consortium event in Dallas, highlighting the small world phenomenon. I also share insights on the

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Episode 121: [Flashback] The Hidden Gifts of Genuine Connection

Doug has interviewed hundreds of business leaders. As co-host of The Nice Guys on Business Podcast and an interviewer, Doug has interviewed digital marketing guru Gary Vaynerchuk, media superstar Arianna Huffington, ABC’s Dan Harris, Celebrity Apprentice Jeffrey Hayzlett, NY Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller Jeffrey Gitomer, and dozens of celebs and business leaders. As

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