Phil Fornaro

Episode 104: LBM Flash Moments: Adapting Through Crisis

I’m celebrating 100 episodes of my podcast and taking a moment to reflect on its growth and impact. Hitting this milestone made me think deeply about how we stay resilient and forward-thinking, especially in uncertain times. I talk a lot about the importance of making businesses recession-proof – because economic challenges like inflation, tariffs, and […]

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Episode 103: Slow Down to Speed Up, A Founder’s Guide to Startup Success with Danielle Drabkin

Danielle Drabkin is Founder & CEO of Chicago-based startup, Pear Chef, disrupting the way Food & Beverage is brought on-site to urban, luxury buildings. Pear Chef brings this exciting culinary amenity to multi-family and office buildings through the use of RFID technology and smart fridges.  Prior to founding Pear Chef, Danielle Drabkin was Chief Sales

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Episode 102: Building Wealth Through Relationships, Risk, and Readiness with Michael Schodrof

Michael Schodrof brings over 25 years of experience in financial services, beginning with a successful career in institutional equity sales where he advised money managers, insurance firms, and hedge funds on capital formation and investment strategy. Today, he serves as Vice President of Investments at Schodrof Capital, part of Alex. Brown – Raymond James, where he provides

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Episode 101: LBM Flash Moments: Pitch, Connect, Grow

I share a story about using ChatGPT to find a restaurant, highlighting the value of presentations for businesses. I discuss a recent presentation on trucking and transportation, which led to new client connections and networking opportunities. I emphasize the benefits of presentations, including gaining strategic partners, creating content, and improving public speaking skills. Connect with

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Episode 100: Build With Intention for Strategic Growth with Harry Kaskov

Henry Kaskov has spent his entire career in business valuation and financial consulting. His journey began as a consultant in the disputes and investigations division of a large consulting firm, where he traveled internationally to assist multinational corporations and financial institutions with complex financial and regulatory matters. His path next led him to a boutique

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Episode 99: LBM Flash Moments: Finding Joy Beyond Happiness

I discuss the distinction between happiness and joy, emphasizing that true joy comes from deep, meaningful experiences. I reflect on my own journey of finding joy through my podcast and share insights on managing emotions, particularly my own lack of emotional expression. I highlight the importance of understanding and controlling emotions to improve interactions and

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Episode 98: LBM Flash EVENT: Goombay Bash

A Caribbean Festival to Find a Cure for Cancer, check the event out NOW by clicking on this link: https://www.hfoundation.org/goombay-bash When: July 26, 2025 Where: Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier, Chicago Event Features: Connect with Philip:  Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/  Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/  “X”: https://x.com/FornaroLaw  Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw

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Episode 97: Practicing With Purpose And Impact with Rob Levine

Attorney. Entrepreneur. Philanthropist. Rob Levine wears many hats, but his passion for standing up for those in need runs through everything he does. Over more than 25 years of legal experience, Rob earned the nickname “THE HEAVY HITTER®” by fiercely advocating for those with injuries and disabilities.  Since founding Rob Levine Law, Rob has helped

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Episode 96: LBM Flash Moments: Solve Complex Problems, Start With Simple Math

I discuss the importance of simplifying complex problems into basic math problems to avoid confusion and overcomplication. I emphasize starting with basic metrics like profit margins and expenditures to understand the big picture before delving into detailed analysis. I criticize the political complications in addressing the U.S.’s growing debt, highlighting the need for balanced budgets

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Episode 95: Power, Pitch, and Purpose: A Smarter Path to Energy and Sales with Mike Zaura

Mike Zaura serves as Senior Strategic Energy Advisor at Nania Energy Advisors, a respected energy services firm founded in 1999. Based in the greater Chicago area, he helps organizations reduce energy costs, navigate complex procurement decisions, and achieve meaningful sustainability goals. A Certified Energy Manager (CEM) and Certified Renewable Energy Professional (REP), Mike brings technical

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