Show cover of Windy City Biz Podcast

Windy City Biz Podcast

We will be interviewing local Chicago area business owners to discuss many topics. Discussions on how to start a business, keep it going, and thrive for the future. Learn through fun and engaging conversation with local business owners. If you would like to be featured on our podcast please message us at: info@naperbiz.net

Tracks

Today we have a very special guest, Rob Glaser the Owner of Virtual Time Capsule located in Schaumburg, IL.Rob Glaser is the owner of Virtual Time Capsule. Virtual Time Capsule is a company that preserves memories for tears to come. It is a platform that allows you to send your life stories to anyone at a later date in the future. Simply upload the memory, enter the recipient's information, and pick a date in the future. That's it. Simple, Clean, Easy. These files are then safely stored and then sent back until the desired date; creating a nice nostalgic surprise.Join us on this episode to learn what drives Rob everyday to stay focused and on his mission to preserve your family memories.Rob Glaser LinkedIn PageEmail: robglaser12@gmail.comWebsite

8/5/25 • 16:20

On today's episode we decided to switch it up a bit and talk about a topic that is on everybody's minds: Where is the Human in the AI loop? To help us talk about this we brought on an AI expert Dirk Vander Noot who is the owner of Telltales Operations.Dirk Vander Noot is a Fractional COO or the right hand man to vision focused founders and business owners. Through process development, tech integration, and a focus on supporting people, he has achieved sustainable growth, and allowed business leaders the freedom to lead the way you were meant to.Recently, his time has been focused on the proper integration and use of technology like AI and Automations into business workflows. Dirks Email: dirk.vandernoot@gmail.comTelltales Operations WebsiteLink to register for July 17, 2025 AI talk: https://inniches.com/ai?937

7/14/25 • 34:49

Today we have a very special guest, Morgan Samson the Owner of Marketing with Morgan located in Chicago, IL.Morgan Samson is the founder of Marketing With Morgan, a content marketing agency that helps businesses grow through strategic storytelling and impactful digital content. With a passion for creativity and analytics, Morgan specializes in crafting engaging campaigns that resonate with audiences on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn. His expertise spans social media strategy, content creation, and video marketing, with a focus on helping businesses stand out in competitive markets.Morgan’s collaborative spirit extends to partnerships with networking groups such as Community Collective and the Naperville Networking Alliance, where he fosters connections between like-minded entrepreneurs and professionals.When he's not working with clients, Morgan can be found reading comic books, drawing (@ComicBooksWithMorgan), playing music, listening to music (passion for Chicago house music!), or brainstorming new content ideas. As a passionate content creator, he thrives on helping businesses elevate their message and encourages others to challenge themselves to bring their creative ideas to life.Join us on this episode to learn how Morgan has taken his creativity to new heights with his marketing company.Morgan's LinkedIn PageEmail: MarketingWithMorganSamson@gmail.comWebsite

4/7/25 • 17:04

Today we have a very special guest, Courtney Van Erem the Owner of Opulent Sales Consulting located in Chicago, IL.Courtney is keen on helping others, simply put! She is enthusiastic about life and overcoming challenges both personally and for your business. Optimism and strategy are the keys to her success and she is happy to help you achieve the same. Today, Courtney shares with us how to be your true authentic self when in sales and how to teach your sales team to do the same.Courtney's LinkedIn ProfileEmail: Courtney@opulentconsult.comCall or Text: 704-500-7148Website

3/31/25 • 18:56

Today we have a very special guest, Rory Tarko the Publisher of Neighbors of North Naperville Magazine located in Naperville, IL.Rory connects local businesses to customers with innovative print and digital advertising solutions through her publication. She also brings awareness to the neighbors in the North Naperville area. Building connections and long-lasting relationships through her publication is what it is all about.Today, Rory shares with us her journey and how she went from getting a Masters in Music to becoming a publisher.Rory Tarko's LinkedIn PageEmail: rtarko@bestversionmedia.comWebsite

3/24/25 • 25:52

Today we have a very special guest, Jeremiah Shumaker the Creative Director and Owner of Sleepy Dog Creative located in Chicago, IL.Jeremiah is a creative visionary with a passion for storytelling through the medium of audio and video production.With over 6 years of experience in cinematography, music production, and photography, Jeremiah is continually working in many layers of the creative industry.In 2020, Jeremiah founded Caffeinated Records, a business built on the value of partnership and creative collaboration. Through his leadership, Caffeinated Records partnered with aspiring artists, professional musicians, and local businesses to create art that reflected their personal identity and mission.Today, Jeremiah uses his skillset and creative eye to tell stories of all aspects of the human experience. He also has his own Podcast called Over the Edge which takes you through the evolving journey of how Jeremiah is starting his business and growing.Join us today to learn how Jeremiah goes about sharing his clients stories in an effective way.Jeremiah Shumaker's LinkedIn ProfileEmail: jeremiah@sleepy.dogPhone Number: 847-533-7408Website: www.sleepy.dogPodcast: Over the Edge

3/17/25 • 18:48

Today we have a very special guest, Patrick Kenny, Insperity, located in Downers Grove, IL.With over six years of experience in the employee benefits industry, Patrick is passionate about helping business leaders improve efficiencies, reduce risk, and contain cost on all areas surrounding their people. As a Business Performance Advisor at Insperity, Patrick leverages his expertise in employee benefits, communication, and customer service to provide tailored solutions that meet the unique needs and goals of business owners. He values integrity, innovation, and collaboration, and strives to deliver exceptional results that exceed expectations and foster long-term relationships.Join us today to learn how Patrick has figured out effective ways to prospect and establish long-term relationships.Patrick's LinkedIn PageEmail: patrick.kenny@insperity.comPhone Number: 630-470-5127

3/3/25 • 17:45

Today we have a very special guest, Jessica Roubitchek, MBA Confidante, located in Chicago, IL.Jessica offers local business owners the strategic support they need to navigate with clarity and confidence so that they can focus on what they're great at-running their businesses-without the stress of endlessly wrangling their marketing.Join us today to learn how Jessica has taken risks throughout her professional career to land her dream job today.Jessica's LinkedIn PageEmail: jessica@mbaconfidante.comWebsite

2/24/25 • 15:48

Today we have a very special guest, Lauren Bierschenk, Farmers Insurance, located in Woodridge, IL.Lauren is an experienced insurance professional with over 12 years as an insurance producer and more than 3 years as an agency owner. She specializes in identifying gaps in personal and small business insurance coverage, ensuring clients are protected against the unexpected. Lauren is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and serving as a trusted resource within her local community.In addition to her professional endeavors, Lauren is actively engaged in both her business and personal communities. Between coaching her sons hockey team to attending chamber events Lauren shares how she has found a balance.Join us today to learn how Lauren has grown as a business owner and has found the life work balance we all want. Lauren's LinkedIn PagePhone: 630-333-1860Email: lbierschenk@farmersagent.comWebsite

2/10/25 • 17:26

Today we have a very special guest, Michael Tanzillo, Keller Williams Success, LLC, located in Barrington, IL.With a passion for service in the Chicagoland and suburban areas, Michael is ready to help with your home buying and selling needs. As a proud member of Keller Williams Success Realty, Michael carries the values of hard work, integrity, and outstanding client service into everything he does.Growing up in the Chicagoland area, and a seasoned real estate professional, Michael recognizes and values the trust his clients place in him, and he strives every day to exceed their expectations.When Michael isn’t making homeownership dreams come true for his clients, he enjoys spending time running and fishing. Michael lives in Crystal Lake with his wife.Join us today to learn how Michael's love for his community has helped him to build such a successful business.Michael's LinkedIn PagePhone: 630-901-2168Email: michaeltanzillo@kw.com

2/3/25 • 15:04

Today we have a very special guest, Andrew Eichner, Equity Partner at Berger Schatz Law, located in Chicago, IL.Drew has been practicing family law for over 35 years. He finds that when he empathizes and relates to his clients he builds long-lasting relationships for years to come. Learn how Drew is his authentic self while being a successful attorney.Join us today to hear Drew's story of how he has built a  successful clientele throughout the years.Berger Schatz

6/20/22 • 25:32

Today we have a very special guest, Julie Bronsteatter of J. Bronsteatter Coaching, located in Chicago, IL.Julie left the corporate world at the beginning of the pandemic and found her passion in helping female leaders in advertising and marketing who were feeling lost and alone confidently take charge of their personal and professional life, putting them in the driver's seat again.Join us today to hear Julie's story of how she got into coaching and has built a successful business during the pandemic.J. Bronsteatter Coaching

5/9/22 • 23:25

Today we have two very special guests, Dave & Vickie Masa owners of Radon Reduction Systems, located in Naperville, IL.Dave & Vickie started their home-based business back 31 years ago now after Dave lost his job as a plumber. Vickie was in real estate and was hearing a lot about this thing called radon gas. The two decided to go into business together to become a radon mitigation company. 31 years strong and they are still running a very successful business and spreading the word about the harms of radon gas. They are passionate about their company and passionate about keeping their community safe.Join us today to hear Dave & Vickie's story of how they have grown their passion into a successful business.Radon Reduction Systems

5/2/22 • 26:26

Today we have a very special guest, Laura Kippen Ph.D. founder and president of InfoManiacs, Inc. located in Naperville, IL.Laura brings over 30 years of custom primary market research experience to help clients find answers to their business and marketing questions, both simple and highly complex. She specializes in the creative application of research methods to uncover insights in difficult, complex, and/or dynamic markets. Her areas of expertise include both qualitative and quantitative methods in support of new product development, optimization, pricing, forecasting, branding initiatives, and loyalty.Learn how Laura has developed and maintained her relationships with clients through her 30+ year career. And how she continues to build long-lasting relationships through natural networking.Join us today to hear Laura's amazing story and the advice she gives on how to let go of those clients that are not serving you.InfoManiacs, Inc.

4/4/22 • 34:29

Today we have a very special guest, Cohen Barnes the President & CEO of SundogIT, Inc and the Mayor of DeKalb in DeKalb, Illinois.Cohen is a US Army Veteran who started Sundog in 1989 as a startup called TBC, providing general IT services in DeKalb, Illinois. By 1995, they could see the potential of universal internet access and became the first commercial ISP in DeKalb County. Since the company has grown to a larger scale pivoting from being an internet provider to offering businesses a wide range of IT services.Learn how Cohen has gone from wanting to be an English teacher to running a successful IT service-driven company. As well as giving back to his community by becoming the Mayor of DeKalb, a community that is near and dear to his heart.Join us today to hear Cohen's amazing story and the advice he gives along the way to business owners looking to give back.SundogIT, Inc

3/28/22 • 29:20

Today we have a very special guest, Thi Nguyen the owner of a new restaurant coming to Naperville called Chez Francois Poutinerie. Learn how Thi overcame obstacles in her life from being a refugee at the end of the Vietnam War to creating a new life here in Naperville. Thi's goal is two-fold, introduce poutine to the area residents and provide employment opportunities to developmentally disabled adults.Join us today to hear Thi's amazing story of how she got to where she is today. And how she plans to help the community employ developmentally disabled adults through her non-profit, Friends of Francois.Chez Francois Poutinerie22 E. Chicago Ave., Naperville, IL

3/21/22 • 28:57

Today we have a very special guest, Megan Robinson the owner of E Leader Experience.Being a leader doesn’t always mean that you have a team behind you. Think of those people who appear to just be “natural” leaders. Those who everyone gravitates to and command respect. What’s their secret? Psst. it’s self-leadership!Join us today to hear how Megan helps leaders through self-reflection and the capacity to understand who you are, your values, and what you believe.E Leader Experience

3/14/22 • 28:10

Today we have a very special guest, Rebecca Malotke-Meslin the owner of Pleasantly Aggressive and the Director at Avery Coonley located in Downers Grove, Illinois.Rebecca empowers women in independent schools, to confidently own their leadership through consulting and coaching.  She offers workshops for schools and associations to help women find their authentic leadership style while understanding the internal and external forces holding them back from achieving their potential. Pleasantly Aggressive

3/9/22 • 30:14

Today we have a very special guest, Alexis Rago of Marketing Mana located in Naperville, Illinois. Alexis grew up in Hawaii and brings a diverse perspective to her marketing strategies. She helps businesses find purpose and guides them through their marketing challenges.In this episode, Alexis discusses how to reconnect with your business as well as how to redefine your mission, vision, and purpose to clarify your marketing goals.Marketing Mana, LLC

2/18/22 • 29:38