Avsnitt
-
Sarah Fraggis doesn’t just run a skincare brand; she embodies resilience and reinvention. As the CEO of Filterless Era, Sarah has built an empire rooted in authenticity, empowering others, and embracing natural beauty. But her journey wasn’t a straight path to success—it was a winding road of self-discovery, risks, and relentless determination.
Years ago, Sarah found herself in a place many can relate to: feeling trapped by circumstances and unsure of her potential. Married young and raising two children, she lived under someone else’s dreams while yearning to pursue her own. "I always wanted to go to art school, but life had other plans," Sarah shared. Yet, the same grit that made her dream big also drove her to find a way forward when the odds seemed stacked against her.
The turning point came when Sarah hit what she describes as rock bottom. “When you’re at the lowest point, there’s nowhere to go but up,” she reflected. With little more than $300 and a deep conviction, she created the foundation for Filterless Era. Her mission? To empower women with tools and techniques that enhance natural beauty without invasive measures.
Sarah’s entrepreneurial journey was anything but smooth. Along the way, she faced skepticism, financial losses, and even outright scams. She candidly recounted nearly losing her Instagram account to a phishing scheme and unknowingly sending money to a hacker. "I’ve been bamboozled, but every mistake has taught me something," she said. Instead of dwelling on setbacks, Sarah used them as fuel to propel herself forward.
A key to her success has been staying true to her values. Filterless Era isn’t just a brand; it’s a movement. Sarah advocates for a “less is more” approach to beauty, emphasizing ancient, non-invasive practices like gua sha and lymphatic drainage. Her goal is simple yet profound: to help people feel beautiful as they are, without filters or facades.
As her business flourished, so did her personal growth. Sarah learned the importance of separating herself from the brand and sharing her own story. "I want women to see that if I can do it, they can too," she said. Her story resonates because it’s raw and relatable. From managing a fast-growing Instagram account—now over 344,000 followers strong—to being featured in publications like Vogue and Cosmopolitan, Sarah has proven that success doesn’t require a traditional path.
Beyond her professional achievements, Sarah’s heart remains firmly rooted in giving back. She recently partnered with a women’s shelter to provide skincare kits and workshops for women rebuilding their lives. “Confidence is the one thing that costs nothing but can take you anywhere,” she shared. By offering practical tools and sharing her own experiences, Sarah aims to spark that confidence in others.
For those navigating their own paths, Sarah offers this advice: "Do your research, trust your instincts, and don’t let setbacks derail you. Use them as motivation to push forward." Her story is proof that even the hardest challenges can be stepping stones to something greater.
Sarah Fraggis isn’t just building a brand—she’s creating a legacy of empowerment, resilience, and authenticity. And through Filterless Era, she’s reminding everyone that beauty is more than skin deep—it’s about embracing who you are and inspiring others to do the same.
-
Elliot Richardson is no stranger to hard work or frustration with the status quo. As the president and co-founder of the Small Business Advocacy Council (SBAC), Elliot has turned years of frustration into a driving force for change, creating a platform that amplifies the voices of small business owners. Her journey into advocacy began not with an easy win, but with a hard lesson: running for office doesn’t always mean victory—but it does mean gaining invaluable insight into what’s broken and how to fix it.
Growing up in Morton Grove and raising her family in Deerfield, Elliot’s roots in Illinois run deep. Her legal background gave her the tools to navigate the complexities of public policy, but it was her empathy for small business owners that propelled her to create the SBAC. Elliot recalls, “We heard a lot about small businesses being the backbone of the economy, but there was a lot of lip service and not much action. That had to change.”
The SBAC began as a way to give small business owners a seat at the table, a voice in the room, and a chance to advocate for themselves. Elliot emphasizes that this wasn’t just about business owners but the larger “small business community”—employees, vendors, and local collaborators who depend on these enterprises. “If we can harness critical mass, we can really move the needle for small businesses,” she explains.
Under Elliot’s leadership, the SBAC has delivered tangible results. From lowering LLC fees in Illinois to advocating for increased tax credits for hiring formerly incarcerated individuals, these wins represent more than policy shifts—they’re lifelines for entrepreneurs. Elliot beams when recounting the success of the SBAC’s initiative to stabilize health insurance premiums. “That’s not just good policy; it’s transformative for small business owners and their employees.”
One of the most significant challenges Elliot identifies for entrepreneurs is undercapitalization. “You’ve got to get your financing in line and prepare for the unexpected,” she advises. Starting a business isn’t just about passion—it’s about timing, preparation, and having the right formula. Elliot insists that this preparation is critical: “You need that cushion to weather the surprises because there will be surprises.”
Beyond advocacy, Elliot’s wisdom shines in her perspective on collaboration. “Small businesses don’t have the resources of big corporations, but that doesn’t mean we can’t work together. The key is finding ways to level the playing field while fostering collaboration.” Initiatives like reallocating state tax incentives to small businesses demonstrate her commitment to ensuring fairness without alienating larger companies.
Elliot also stresses the importance of networking. For her, effective networking isn’t about attending every event—it’s about intentionality. “Ask your mentors where to go and make the most of your time. Join groups that align with your goals and values.” She adds that the SBAC fosters connections not just for advocacy but for business collaboration, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow together.
For Elliot, advocacy isn’t just work—it’s a calling. She believes in showing up, whether it’s in Springfield or at a local chamber meeting. “Big corporations have their lobbyists, and now we’re there too. It’s about being present and making sure small businesses aren’t overlooked.”
Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? “Get involved. Advocate for the changes you want to see. Barriers won’t fall unless we work together to remove them.” It’s this relentless focus on collaboration, fairness, and empowerment that makes Elliot Richardson a force for change in Illinois and beyond.
-
Saknas det avsnitt?
-
Maj. Gen. Alex Fink’s career is a remarkable blend of military discipline and corporate strategy, offering insights few can match. As Chief of Army Enterprise Marketing in Chicago, he oversaw one of the Army’s most transformative initiatives—the “Be All You Can Be” campaign—while guiding a team to build the Army’s marketing capabilities into a modern, data-informed powerhouse. But his journey began far from Chicago, on a working farm in rural Missouri, where values like hard work and resilience were instilled early.
Maj. Gen. Fink attended the University of Missouri, where he joined the ROTC, an experience that sparked his lifelong dedication to service. Over a distinguished military career that spans more than three decades, he’s held numerous high-stakes commands, from leading multinational units in Iraq and Afghanistan to overseeing vital logistical operations across the globe. This breadth of experience not only underscores his leadership but also shapes his approach to culture-building in organizations.
For Alex, authentic leadership is essential. He emphasizes that leadership isn’t about mimicking others; it’s about being yourself and standing by the principles you believe in. “You can’t lead if you’re constantly trying to be someone else,” he explains. This idea—of authenticity as the cornerstone of effective leadership—has guided him throughout his military career and into his current role, where he helps mold the Army’s public image and outreach efforts.
A Major General’s approach to leadership goes beyond strategies; it’s grounded in practical actions. Known for his accessibility, Alex breaks the mold of many corporate leaders by actively seeking out “collisions”—unplanned interactions that reveal valuable insights. “I seek out those small collisions,” he says, knowing that real connections with his team build trust and foster a culture where everyone feels valued. This open-door policy, uncommon in both the military and corporate worlds, has made him an accessible leader who values transparency and collaboration.
One of Alex’s core principles is what he calls “don’t walk past a mistake.” He believes that leaders must address issues head-on and avoid letting small missteps fester. This mentality of accountability is not only vital internally but also essential for fostering relationships with external partners, who are crucial in driving an organization’s mission forward.
Collaboration, both inside and outside the organization, is another key to Alex’s leadership style. He’s quick to acknowledge that large-scale change requires allies, and he sees partnerships as essential, whether it’s with peers, other divisions, or external organizations. “If you're driving cultural change, you need partners on board,” he says. This collaborative mindset was pivotal during his time in military commands and continues to be a cornerstone of his corporate leadership.
As the architect of the Army’s “Be All You Can Be” campaign, Alex had to make difficult decisions. With a limited budget, he prioritized investments in data and technology, even at the expense of reducing media visibility temporarily. “It was a risk,” he admits, but one that ultimately allowed his team to create a more precise, targeted approach to marketing. This decision reflects his understanding that short-term sacrifices are sometimes necessary to achieve long-term success, an insight he draws from both military and corporate environments.
The Major General’s military background has taught him invaluable lessons about resilience and perspective. He’s led through the high stakes of combat, an experience that has trained him to keep things in perspective and stay grounded under pressure. “In a year from now, is anyone going to remember? And if they do, will they care?” he asks himself. This mentality has become a compass in his career, helping him make decisions without letting minor setbacks derail his...
-
In a world where many aspire to the comforts of a stable corporate job, Rafael Romero’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Hailing from Venezuela, Rafael’s journey is not just about professional success; it’s a story of overcoming personal and cultural challenges while staying true to his vision.
Rafael began his career in Venezuela, where he studied audit while balancing work and education. His hard work paid off when he received an unexpected opportunity: a transfer to Chicago through his firm’s global program. This chance to live out his dream of working in the United States was both exhilarating and daunting. “I couldn’t even believe it,” Rafael shared. “My dream was always to come to the States.”
But the move wasn’t without its challenges. Transitioning from the warm climate of Venezuela to the frigid Chicago winters was just one of many adjustments. More significant was the cultural and linguistic shift. While Rafael had a solid foundation in English, the specialized terminology of accounting in a new environment was a hurdle. Despite these obstacles, Rafael’s determination to succeed never wavered.
Rafael’s story is marked by perseverance. He often found himself working long hours, both at his job and on his studies, to ensure he could thrive in his new environment. He didn’t shy away from seeking help and surrounding himself with positive influences. “Surround yourself with good mentors,” he advises. “Surround yourself with positive people that you can learn from, but never give up.”
After five years at Deloitte, Rafael made a bold move—leaving corporate America to co-found Falco Systems, a tech company specializing in facial recognition technology for international flights. The transition wasn’t easy, but for Rafael, it was the best decision he ever made. “It’s been the best three years of my life,” he reflects, describing his foray into the world of aviation and technology.
Rafael’s leap into entrepreneurship wasn’t a complete departure from his past. He leveraged his extensive network and continued to work part-time as a consultant to pay the bills while building Falco Systems. This balancing act, though challenging, allowed him to fully commit to his new venture while maintaining financial stability.
One of the most striking aspects of Rafael’s story is his approach to networking. He doesn’t just meet people; he connects the dots. This mindset has been crucial to the growth of Falco Systems, allowing him to bring in key partners and advisors who share his vision. “It’s about connecting, not just networking,” he emphasizes.
Rafael’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those in similar positions, is simple yet profound: find the right partners and ensure your passion aligns with your work. “You need to find a problem and come up with the solution,” he says. And, perhaps most importantly, always have a client in mind when developing that solution.
Falco Systems has made significant strides, recently becoming a member of 1871, the largest software incubator in Chicago. The company’s technology is already being implemented in airports, and Rafael is in talks with major players like T-Mobile and United Airlines to expand its applications.
Rafael’s story is one of grit, determination, and the willingness to take calculated risks. It’s a reminder that success doesn’t come overnight, but with perseverance and the right connections, the possibilities are limitless. For those looking to follow Rafael’s journey, he invites you to connect with him on LinkedIn and follow Falco Systems as they continue to innovate and lead in the tech space.
-
Mark Denzler, the President and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers Association, sat down with Nick DeGregorio on the CEO Roundtable to share his insights and experiences in the manufacturing sector. Mark's journey is a testament to the resilience and innovation that define American manufacturing.
Mark's story begins in Decatur, Illinois, where his father worked in a manufacturing plant. This early exposure to the industry instilled in him a deep appreciation for the value of hard work and the vital role manufacturing plays in the economy. "Manufacturing put food on the table for me growing up," Mark shared. His passion for the industry is palpable, and his commitment to advancing manufacturing in Illinois is unwavering.
One of the key topics Mark discussed is the changing landscape of education and career choices for young people. He pointed out that the number of high school graduates going directly to college is at an all-time low. "One in three high school graduates are no longer going to a four-year university," he noted. This shift is partly due to the growing awareness of alternative career paths in sectors like manufacturing, which offer lucrative opportunities without the burden of student debt.
Mark emphasized the importance of showcasing the diverse opportunities within the manufacturing sector. "When you work in manufacturing, you can be in engineering, accounting, sales, or marketing," he explained. The industry is not just about working on the production floor; it encompasses a wide range of roles that are essential to its success.
A significant challenge facing the manufacturing sector is workforce diversity. Mark highlighted the need to attract a more diverse pool of talent. "Too many people, quite frankly, look like me. They're older, they're white, and they're male," he said. To address this, the IMA has implemented initiatives to attract women, minorities, ex-offenders, and returning veterans to the industry. These efforts are crucial for the sector's growth and sustainability.
Mark also spoke about the innovative ways the IMA is promoting manufacturing. One such initiative is Maker's Madness, a competition to showcase the coolest products made in Illinois. "We get about 300,000 votes and a couple hundred products," he shared. This event, along with the IMA's Manufacturing Hall of Fame, highlights the sector's contributions and celebrates its achievements.
The conversation turned to the economic impact of manufacturing in Illinois. Mark proudly mentioned that manufacturing produces the single largest share of the state's economy, employing 650,000 individuals across nearly 4,000 companies. The sector's ripple effect on the economy is immense, as these jobs support other industries and services.
Addressing the future, Mark expressed optimism about the role of quantum computing in manufacturing. He discussed the governor's budget allocation for a new quantum campus in the Chicagoland area, which promises to position Illinois as a leader in this cutting-edge technology. "Quantum is really going to be a game-changer for technology," he said, highlighting its potential to revolutionize various sectors, including cybersecurity and drug development.
Throughout the interview, Mark's dedication to the manufacturing sector shone through. His passion for the industry, combined with his strategic vision, positions the IMA as a pivotal player in driving the sector's growth and innovation. As Mark aptly put it, "Manufacturing makes the world a better place every single day."
For anyone considering a career in manufacturing, Mark's advice is simple yet profound: "Follow your passion." Whether you're a young person exploring career options or an entrepreneur looking to make a mark in the industry, the opportunities in manufacturing are vast and varied.
Mark's insights and experiences offer valuable lessons for anyone interested in the manufacturing sector. His...
-
Ron Martinez II's story is one of grit, resilience, and innovation. Starting as a carpet cleaner, Ron transitioned into banking, where he rapidly advanced from teller to high-level positions at Wells Fargo and Citibank. Despite lucrative opportunities, Ron chose to venture into entrepreneurship, co-founding ChatterVize, a dynamic texting platform for businesses.
Ron’s journey underscores the importance of intentionality and seizing opportunities. He speaks candidly about the lessons learned from his banking career, the significance of networking, and the value of genuine connections in business. Ron's insights on leveraging technology, like texting strategies, to enhance client engagement are transformative.
His leadership style, shaped by his diverse experiences, emphasizes understanding individual and business needs in various seasons. Ron’s dedication to his team and clients is a testament to his commitment to building meaningful relationships and fostering community.
-
In an era where leadership is often a blend of charisma and strategy, Garry McCarthy stands out as a beacon of resilience, wisdom and an unyielding commitment to service. His journey from the bustling streets of the Bronx to becoming the CEO of McCarthy Byrnes is a narrative rich with lessons on perseverance, leadership and the transformative power of facing life's challenges head-on.
Garry's story begins in New York, where his upbringing instilled in him a profound respect for the values of the "greatest generation." His father, a World War II Marine and NYPD officer and his mother, a registered nurse, shaped his world view, embedding a deep sense of duty and service. His career in law enforcement, spanning over four decades, is a testament to these values, showcasing a life dedicated not just to maintaining law and order but to making a tangible difference in the communities he served.
His ascent through the ranks of the NYPD wasn't propelled by connections but by hard-earned promotions, each step marked by a commitment to fairness and effectiveness.
Garry's approach to policing, infused with lessons from his days as a linebacker on the football field, was straightforward: confront challenges head-on, work as a team and never shy away from hard work. "It's a way of life," Garry remarks, drawing parallels between the grit required on the field and in the streets of New York.
One cannot discuss Garry's career without pausing at the profound impact of 9/11. As the deputy commissioner of operations for the NYPD, he witnessed first-hand the devastation and heroism of that day. The aftermath was a period of intense sorrow and unity, as he navigated the city through its darkest hours.
His reflections on the tragedy highlight not just the personal loss but the resilience of New York and its people. It was a pivotal moment that underscored the essence of leadership: the ability to steer through crises with courage and compassion.
Transitioning from public service to the corporate world, Garry co-founded McCarthy Byrnes, bringing his wealth of experience to the private sector. The firm, specializing in security assessments, litigation support and training, benefits from his unique insight into law enforcement and public safety. This move underscores a crucial lesson: the skills and knowledge we acquire are versatile and can pave new paths in unexpected ways.
Garry's narrative is more than a success story; it's a blueprint for impactful leadership. His journey teaches us the importance of resilience, the value of hard-earned achievements and the power of a life dedicated to serving others. For those aspiring to lead, Garry's story is a reminder that true leadership is not just about reaching the top but about how you uplift others along the way.
In every chapter of his life, Garry has demonstrated that leadership is about more than directives; it's about setting an example, facing challenges with bravery and maintaining integrity in every action. His story is a masterclass in leadership, offering invaluable lessons for anyone looking to make a difference in their community or organization. As Garry's journey from the Bronx to the boardroom shows, the path to true leadership is paved with challenges, but it's how we face those challenges that defines us.
-
In the latest episode of the CEO Roundtable Podcast, we had the privilege of sitting down with Brian Lee, a visionary entrepreneur behind the innovative platforms Romely and Gilder. His journey is not just a tale of entrepreneurship but a masterclass in transforming vision into reality, a narrative rich with lessons for aspiring founders and seasoned business leaders alike.
Brian Lee's story unfolds with an authenticity and passion that's both refreshing and inspiring. Starting from a spontaneous idea born out of necessity during a trip with friends, Lee's entrepreneurial path through Romely reflects the quintessence of innovation—solving real-world problems in unexpected ways.
This B2C travel tech platform, conceived before the world was hit by the pandemic, showcases Lee's ability to foresee and adapt to market needs, emphasizing the importance of resilience and flexibility in business.
However, it's not just Romely's inception that captivates; it's the philosophy behind Gilder that truly embodies Lee's vision of entrepreneurship. Gilder is more than just a business; it's a community. Here, Lee has crafted a fully virtual, international network of vetted subject matter experts.
This initiative underscores a crucial entrepreneurial lesson: the value of building meaningful connections over transactional relationships.
Lee's insights into the entrepreneurial mindset are particularly striking. "It's less about the idea and it's all about the execution," he asserts. This statement, simple yet profound, serves as a clarion call to those enamored by the allure of startup culture. Entrepreneurship, as Lee highlights, is a commitment not to the pursuit of quick riches but to the relentless pursuit of one's vision against all odds.
What sets Lee apart is his grounded approach to success. In an era where the trappings of wealth often define entrepreneurial achievement, Lee's perspective is a breath of fresh air.
His narrative is a testament to the belief that success is not measured by material wealth but by the impact one creates. For Lee, the real reward lies in empowering communities, fostering innovation, and making meaningful contributions that transcend personal gain.
This episode with Brian Lee is more than just a podcast; it's a beacon for anyone looking to navigate the turbulent waters of entrepreneurship. It reminds us that at the heart of every successful venture lies a commitment to core values, a dedication to community, and the courage to innovate.
-
In the latest episode of the CEO Roundtable Podcast, Marseil Jackson, the CEO of the Dream Center, shares an inspiring journey that resonates with the ethos of turning visions into tangible success. His story, brimming with lessons, wisdom, and entrepreneurial spirit, is not just a narrative but a roadmap for aspirants across all walks of life.
Jackson's roots in Chicago's west side shaped his understanding of community and the power of location. His entrepreneurial journey, which he dubs an “accidental business,” started with his Dream Center, a co-working and business support center in Austin.
The rapid success of Dream Center, filling up desks and mailboxes in the first 60 days, is a testament to Jackson's intuitive grasp of supply and demand, a principle he learned early in life.
But it’s his approach to business that sets him apart. “If you run your business like a million-dollar business, you can make a million dollars,” Jackson affirms. His expansion from providing physical space to offering comprehensive business services, including ‘Business in the Box’ and business development consulting, reflects his vision of holistic entrepreneurial support.
Jackson’s story embodies adaptability and resilience. His pivot during the pandemic, shifting from his original business to leverage his sales and marketing company’s connections in China to source PPE, illustrates the importance of being agile in business.
This move not only sustained his enterprise but also led to government contracts and unprecedented growth.
His personal mantra, “know when to hold them, know when to fold them,” is a reminder of the importance of having an exit plan, a lesson he values deeply.
Jackson’s journey, encompassing various ventures from online selling to credit repair, echoes the essence of true entrepreneurship - the love for business itself, not just a single business.
Jackson’s venture into radio and AI with his app, Alfred, is further proof of his multifaceted talents and his belief in the power of artificial intelligence as a tool to enhance, not replace, human endeavor.
-
New on CEO Roundtable! Discover how Toni Witt, with just two suitcases and $200, turned challenges into opportunities and built GENESIS, a haven for GenZ entrepreneurs.
Dive into his inspiring journey from Europe to Chicago and get a sneak peek into his stealth-mode startup.
-
In this enlightening episode, Aldo Petruzzelli, Chief Executive Officer of Omnia, delves deep into the transformative world of Augmented Reality (AR). Discover how Omnia's innovative platform empowers businesses—from e-commerce giants to local restaurants—to navigate the AR landscape. Understand tailored AR recommendations suited to budgets and objectives, and how Omnia champions AR creators by ensuring they retain complete creative control and financial benefits. Join us as we explore the confluence of technology and commerce, and the boundless potential of AR in modern business. Don't miss this AR-centric conversation with the visionary behind it all!
-
On a particularly revealing episode of "The CEO Roundtable Podcast", the charismatic Jennie Raymer led us into the world of Amber Farooqui, unveiling a story rich in tenacity, spirit, and undeniable leadership. It was an exposition that painted Amber not merely as a business persona but as an emblem of women in power.
Jennie's apt questions uncovered Amber's journey from the shadows of doubt to the limelight of success. The segment was more than an interview; it felt like a dance of words between two professionals, driven by mutual respect and admiration. The host, Jennie, was undeniably the star, guiding the narrative, but the brilliance of Amber, her struggles, victories, and wisdom, was the heart.
Amber's admission, "I wasn’t born a leader; I grew into one through my experiences," speaks volumes of her voyage. For you, reading this, understand that leadership isn't necessarily innate. It's carved, molded, and refined by the fires of challenges and the soothing breezes of victories.
"You see," Amber continued, her voice a blend of confidence and humility, "Leadership isn't about leading the pack from the front, but understanding when to step back, listen, and allow others to shine." It's this ability to recognize and empower potential in others that sets true leaders apart. Jennie chimed in, emphasizing the weight of Amber's words, "That's the essence, isn't it? Knowing when to lead and when to follow."
Amber's recollection of a poignant moment, when she stood up against an unfair decision in her previous job, was particularly stirring. Her stand wasn't just for her but for everyone who'd been silently bearing the brunt of unchecked authority. "Sometimes," Amber reflected, "the smallest acts are the boldest statements of leadership."
For those of you aspiring to leadership roles or simply seeking ways to influence your environment positively, take Amber's journey as testament. It's not about the grand gestures but the consistent, small actions that echo your principles, values, and visions.
Jennie brilliantly tied the episode together, extracting kernels of wisdom that you can incorporate in your own journeys. But as Amber rightly said, "Every journey is unique, but the principles of leadership remain universal."
In concluding their conversation, Jennie remarked, "Leaders like you, Amber, inspire a generation to act with courage, compassion, and conviction." So, as you tread your path of ambition, remember the tales of tenacity like Amber's. Understand that leadership isn't just about titles or positions but about influencing change, supporting others, and standing up for what's right.
-
In the latest episode of CEO Roundtable, Sarah Fraggis, CEO of Filterless Era, shared her insights on how purpose and authenticity can drive success in the business world.
As a leader who values transparency and honesty, Sarah Fraggis has built her company around these principles and has seen remarkable results. Fraggis's journey to becoming an accomplished CEO was not without its challenges.
She faced numerous setbacks, including a failed business venture, but she refused to let these obstacles define her. Instead, she focused on her passion for helping others and channeled that energy into building a company that aligns with her values.
One of the key takeaways from Fraggis's story is the importance of leading with purpose. In a world where businesses are often driven solely by profit, it can be easy to lose sight of the bigger picture.
Fraggis encourages leaders to take a step back and evaluate what their company stands for. By aligning your business with your personal values, you can create a sense of purpose that motivates both you and your team.
Another lesson from Fraggis's journey is the power of authenticity. In a filterless era, where social media and technology make it easy to present a polished image, it can be tempting to hide behind a facade.
But Fraggis believes that being authentic is crucial to building strong relationships with employees, customers, and other stakeholders. By embracing your true self and being open and honest about your strengths and weaknesses, you can create a culture of trust and collaboration.
Fraggis's approach to leadership is refreshing in a world where so many CEOs are driven solely by profit. By prioritizing purpose and authenticity, she has created a company that not only achieves financial success but also has a positive impact on its employees and the community.
As aspiring professionals and entrepreneurs, we can all learn from Fraggis's example and strive to lead with purpose and authenticity in our own endeavors.
-
Lou Sandoval is an accomplished CEO with a proven track record of success. He has navigated challenging situations, overcome obstacles, and achieved great things in his career. He joins us on the CEO Roundtable to explore his story and share the lessons he’s learned along the way.
Lou Sandoval grew up in a small town and was the son of immigrant parents. His parents instilled in him a strong work ethic and taught him the value of education.
Lou attended DePaul University and graduated with a degree in Biochemistry . He later received business training at Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Business. He then went on to work for several top companies, honing his skills and gaining experience.
Eventually, Lou decided to start his own business. He founded a company that would go on to become a leader in its industry. Through hard work, determination, and a willingness to take risks, Lou was able to grow his company and achieve great success.
Throughout his career, Lou has learned many valuable lessons that he believes have contributed to his success.
One of the most important is the importance of taking calculated risks. He believes that in order to succeed, you must be willing to step outside of your comfort zone and take a chance on something new.
Another key lesson that Lou has learned is the value of surrounding yourself with talented people. He believes that the success of any organization is dependent on the people who work there. By surrounding himself with talented and motivated individuals, Lou has been able to achieve great things.
Lou emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision for your organization. He believes that a strong vision can serve as a guidepost for decision making and can help keep everyone focused on the same goal.
Lou Sandoval is an inspiring figure who has achieved great things in his career. His story serves as a reminder that with hard work, determination, and a willingness to take risks, anything is possible. By taking the lessons he has learned to heart, aspiring professionals can apply these principles to their own careers and achieve success.
-
Meet Sara Ray Stoelinga, CEO at Easterseals serving Chicgaoland and Greater Rockford. Stoelinga grew up in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Education was the cornerstone of her upbringing, along with music, faith, and simple living. Her parents were good role models, instilling a sense of responsibility to use her talents to contribute goodness to the world
Though education was always part of her path, she didn’t have a clear trajectory. In her final year of college at UChicago, education came into focus. She was part of the neighborhood schools program where she tutored in public school. Being inside of Chicago schools was a wake up call as to how the segregated classrooms were. It made a huge impression on her. Fixing this problem drew her into her path. She got an internship at UChicago’s Center for School Improvement. The intersection between research and practice to improve schools attracted her to the program.
A focus on and love for the kids have always been at the center of her work. She was the Expulsion Appeal Officer, where she was the person who heard the appeal as to whether or not a student was expelled. She never wanted to expel kids, as she saw gifted, smart kids in these positions. She asked herself, how do we make schools that serve those kids?
Three years ago, she joined Easterseals as its CEO. The organization has two pillars - early learning and disability with a variety of programs in both. The organization does important work, such as funding schools that serve youth with autism or other disabilities. It also works with Head Start - her company services 1900 young children - 0 to 3 years - in 40 different childhood centers.
She was a turnaround CEO, coming into the company as it was facing a number of issues. “It was the hardest thing I've ever done professionally,” Stoelinga says. She had to roll up her sleeves and restructure the company, always doing so with empathy and transparent decision making.
“They need us because they have disabilities and need access to the broader world and access to services. They need us because Head Start serves low income families that are 150% below the poverty line. And here we were, we're all wrapped up in this operational organizational stuff, and I think that the hardest part for me was the human element.”
After all was said and done, she fell in love with the work and knows it fits right in with her skills and leadership style. She’s working to ensure the company can always stay afloat and continue to live out its mission.
Tune in to hear more on Sara's story and how you can connect with or give back to Easter Seals.
-
In this episode, Ricardo Regalado, a serial entrepreneur, talks to us about his business, from a small franchise to building his own successful brand in a multi-billion dollar industry. Ricardo is the CEO of Route and CVO of Rozalado Services.
One of Ricardo’s biggest catalysts to success has been learning every aspect of the cleaning industry. He has done everything firsthand, from cleaning, inspections, and follow-ups, which has allowed him to understand his customer's needs perfectly.
“That tactic of doing everything first to this day holds to any employee that comes in. You may not go clean for as long as we did, but you have to provide the service. How can you take over, book a business for us or train that new employee if you've never done it yourself?”
Having started the cleaning business with his girlfriend (now wife) and his cousin Tony, Ricardo believes in sharing your business ideas, fears, and concerns with others.
“It's lonely when you come up with an idea, and nobody else is with you. You can go crazy, that idea can shutter, and you can get upset. It's all mindset, right? Your mindset works better when you have somebody else in that passenger seat with you.”
We all do better when we do things together. For any successful business, you have to grow a team, talent search, train them for success, outline the milestones they have to hit, and, most importantly, be clear on the job description.
“That job description they're going to hold to it. You shouldn't assume that they're just going to do anything that you asked them to do. Let them know about the dynamics in the office. We failed to make an organizational chart, and I didn't realize that that was an important piece. A new employee coming in should know who to report to. I hate to say, stay in your lane, but if you don't, you can ruffle feathers, and the business dynamic will go wacky.”
Tune into the episode to listen to Ricardo share his story, his entrepreneurship tactics, and how he has built a successful business in the cleaning industry.
-
What started as a way to promote his high school band, turned into a career in creative design for Tim Fullerton. Now the CEO and Founder of FYD, a boutique digital marketing agency, Tim shares how he was led into a craft that helps businesses build brands.
Tim has always had a passion for music, so when he formed a band in high school he took it upon himself to create a website.
When it came to high school the internet was kind of picking up and we needed a website. I was like ‘I love design stuff and Photoshop, and I can figure this out.’ So that's where the whole career really originated was developing that website for the band.”
Given his passion for music, Tim found himself working on the Firefly music festival account, for the company he worked for before starting FYD. He shares how he was able to quickly piivoot at a time when that company went through a major transition.
“In June, 2015, I was working at an events company, the one that did, the Firefly music festival, and they laid off 33% of their staff and I made the cut. That was one of those things where I had. about a month that I can afford to try and really go for this. And I think I set up one job interview after that, and that was it.
And I just went full blast, full tilt boss, becauseI already had a portfolio of freelance clients that I'd already worked with. I had people that I was contracting out to that I'd been working with for quite a while.
I had something kind of established there, but it was just one of those things where like “How do we just really move this thing forward?’”
Tune in to hear more on Tim’s story and how he’s managed to build a successful brand and company culture for FYD.
-
While going to college, Sara Stone wanted nothing more than to “be a girl behind the cosmetic counter.” Now the CEO and Founder Of Activate Your Impact, she shares how she went from student teaching, to working for some of the biggest names in the beauty industry, to starting a company that’s committed to selling safe products.
With news coverage and documentaries like “Not So Pretty” on HBO Max, consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the toxins found in almost all cosmetic products. Sara, being one of those consumers, sought a better solution and started a business in the process. As she pointed out, it’s about trusting the products we use.
“I think the one thing that we want when we go shopping is to know that what we're buying is safe, not only for ourselves, but our family and our friends and the people we love around us.
We take for granted thinking that we're going to pick something off the shelf and that product is going to be good for us, it's going to be safe and it's going to promise what it delivers on that label. However, unfortunately in cosmetics, not everything is regulated and there's no basic safety testing done on these products.”
Knowing that there are ingredients that have been shown to cause infertility issues and even cancers, Sara’s increasing concern for her and her clients’ safety, led her to question the industry she faithfully served for sixteen years.
Taking her passion for helping and educating others, Sara and her business partner agreed to pursue their purpose and passion, and turn it into a company. Community being part of their core values, Sara and her business partner have worked to create a space for others to pursue their purpose and passions. Though focused on building a brand around a line of skincare products, Activate Your Impact continues to offer other products from other brands that adhere to the same values and commitment to provide safe and clean products.
“We're going to provide our consumer clinical, cruelty-free, clean, effective products that are going to be safe. We're also going to give people in the community, who love cosmetics, an opportunity to sell and be a part of this process as well. And mentor them if they want to go out and be entrepreneurs.”
Tune in to hear more about Sara’s story and how she’s building a brand during a time of incredible change for the beauty industry and beyond.
https://www.tfocb.com/ceo/podcast/sara-stone
-
Matt Wilhelmi is CEO and Sr. Consultant at Strategic Voyages Business Consultant; providing CFO services to companies focused on growth. He joins us at the roundtable to share his voyage into building his company and the lessons learned along the way.
The author of “Taboo Business Questions,” Matt breaks down his strategic approach to identifying the root cause of each of his clients’ unique situations, to provide a customized solution for them. Which as he points out, can be confusing for a business owner to do on their own, depending on who they ask.
“There's a lot of businesses that are at that breaking point where they know they need some advice. They're scared of hiring a full-time CFO and they don't know what to do. So they go to their bank. Sometimes they’ll talk to their loan officer or their banker. Maybe they'll go to their CPA or their accountant, and they're getting all kinds of financial advice and it's very conflictual.
The advice from the bank is almost always different from the advice of the CPA. They speak these different languages. So, with my background, working at Chase and US bank, and then in small business, I've been able to translate that into words and terms a business owner can understand.”
Having worked as consultant, before starting his own company and seized the opportunity to learn of the problems and questions common to most businesses and business owners.Yet Matt continues to pursue knowledge through reading and encourages his clients to do the same.
“It's that kind of mindset of continual learning and continual growth and being able to think about your business as something that is a project that you're working on. To improve instead of just showing up every day, and punching the clock, and making some money, and paying your people and going home. It's that mindset of how can I improve this? How can I bring more people into it to help it grow to something that I'm actually proud of showing other people?”
Beyond mindset, Matt shares how being honest of your skills as a CEO is crucial to the success of a business. Tune in to hear more on Matt’s story and to hear tips that could help you take your business to new heights.
https://www.tfocb.com/ceo/podcast/matt-wilhelmi
-
On this episode of the CEO Roundtable podcast, we sit down with Jaime DiPaulo, the president of the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Born and raised in Mexico, Jaime came to the United States as an exchange student landing in Denver, Colorado in 1980. Growing up with the Chicano movement in Colorado, he developed a taste for social justice, taking courses at the University of Colorado to better understand the history of Latinos in the United States. That led him down the path toward carving a career in economic development which eventually brought him to leading one of the largest chambers of commerce in the U.S.
The goal of the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is to help any Latino business gain access to capital and get everything in place so they can make sure they succeed. In Jaime’s words, “we’re like the red cross, we’re helping businesses survive.” In the state of Illinois there are 170,000 Latino-owned businesses with 80% of those in the Chicago Metro Area.
With the recent COVID pandemic, Jaime and his team have been working around the clock to ensure they can give as many businesses as possible the resources they need to stay afloat and keep people employed.
“We really might want to make a difference in this world and make sure that every small business is taken care of and we get the right access to them. We need to make sure we put Latinos in the community in positions of power so we can all grow together as a community.”
Aside from COVID, what’s top of mind for Jaime and the Chamber is understanding why Latino businesses don’t have the same access to capital as others. They have an ongoing collaboration with the Apsen Institute to create the write data so they can promote good legislation that will positively impact the community.
Tune into this episode of the CEO Roundtable to hear more about Jaime’s journey and what he’s doing to uplift the Latino business community in Chicago.
- Visa fler
