Entrepreneurship & Startups

I discuss the organic growth of a young person’s event, which brought together local entrepreneurs and professionals. The event, attended by 30 people, featured networking and discussions. I emphasize the importance of young people reaching out and connecting, highlighting the positive feedback and enthusiasm from attendees. Future plans include a May event with panel discussions […]

Dave Munson is the founder of Saddleback Leather Co., a globally recognized brand known for crafting over-engineered leather bags built to last 100 years. His journey began in a small leather shop in Mexico with one goal: “Make it so tough my grandkids fight over it when I’m dead.” Since then, he’s survived jungle treks,

Mark Rampolla is a visionary entrepreneur, investor, speaker, and writer known for inspiring mission-driven leaders to build businesses that matter—and lives of real freedom. As Co-Founder and Co-Managing Partner of GroundForce Capital, he helps bold founders scale purpose-driven companies that generate massive impact, including Liquid Death, Bobbie Baby Formula, Beyond Meat, Thrive Market, Vive Organics,

Doug Price is the creator of The Agave Social Club, a leading platform and podcast dedicated to the stories, culture, and craftsmanship behind tequila. With over 100 interviews featuring industry experts — from legendary master distillers to emerging brand owners — Doug has become a trusted voice in the world of agave spirits. Through engaging

Denise Oros is the owner and master goldsmith of Linnea Jewelers, a full-service fine jewelry studio in La Grange, Illinois. With decades of experience at the bench, she specializes in custom design, stone setting, restoration, and personalized pieces that reflect each client’s story. Her approach blends traditional craftsmanship with modern tools and techniques, allowing customers

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

John Lee Dumas is the host of Entrepreneurs on Fire, an award-winning podcast where he interviews inspiring Entrepreneurs who are truly ON FIRE. With over 2500 episodes, 1 million++ listens a month, and seven figures of annual revenue, JLD is just getting started. Visit EOFire.com to set YOUR Entrepreneurial journey ON FIRE! Why This Episode

Jay Leonard is a Managing Director in Bernstein Private Wealth Management’s Chicago office, where he helps lead strategy and growth in Chicago and the Midwest markets.  As a Principal of the firm & co-leader of the business owner and entrepreneur task force, he also advises clients and their professional advisors regarding asset allocation, investment strategy,

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. 

President of RIM Logistics, Robert Mueller, is driven by a passion for inspiring creativity and challenging the status quo. Following in his father’s footsteps, he built his career in logistics by forging strong client networks and later took the helm of the family business after his father’s passing. Mueller was instrumental in expanding RIM’s presence