Free Business Topics in Chicago

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Now the speaker will contact you in the next few days to coordinate details.

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  • Keep It Simple: IT and Cyber Security Compliance Made Easy

    Christopher Higgins, Cyber Security Analyst, CCS Technology Group

    Tired of feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of IT and cybersecurity compliance? Look no further! In our presentation, "Keep It Simple: IT and Cyber Security Compliance Made Easy," we'll break down the jargon and provide you with practical solutions to simplify the compliance process. MORE >

    Navigating the intricate web of regulations and requirements can be daunting for any business. But fear not - we're here to guide you through the maze. Our seasoned experts will demystify the often-confusing world of compliance, presenting it in a way that even non-technical individuals can understand.

    We'll address common compliance challenges and provide actionable steps to streamline your efforts. From creating robust policies and procedures to implementing effective security controls, we'll cover the essentials to help you achieve and maintain compliance. We'll even share tips and tricks to avoid common pitfalls and optimize your compliance framework.

    At CCS, our extensive experience in the industry since 1974 sets us apart as trusted advisors. We know what works and what doesn't, and we're committed to making compliance approachable and manageable for you. Our friendly and engaging approach will ensure you leave the presentation feeling empowered and ready to tackle your compliance obligations.

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  • Optimizing Your Job Search with AI

    Rosie Zilinskas, Keynote Speaker | Certified High-Performance Coach, No Woman Left Behind

    AI can speed up your job search when you know how to use it strategically. This session goes beyond the resume and covers how to use free AI tools across every stage of the job search process, from applications to networking to interview preparation. You will learn prompts that save time while keeping your unique voice, and how to build a system that creates momentum without burning you out. MORE >

    What attendees will walk away with:
    ~ How to strengthen a LinkedIn profile, headline, and job descriptions with AI-generated improvements
    ~ How to write authentic outreach and networking messages that start real conversations
    ~ How to use AI to research companies, identify roles, and explore new career paths
    ~ How to build a Story Vault of accomplishments using the Problem-Action-Solution format
    ~ A simple weekly checklist and workflow to stay consistent and organized throughout the search
    ~ Ready-to-use ChatGPT prompts for every step

    Ideal for:
    ~ Active job seekers who want to work smarter, not harder
    ~ Professionals navigating a career transition or unexpected layoff
    ~ Anyone overwhelmed by the volume and complexity of a modern job search
    ~ People curious about AI who want a practical, hands-on introduction
    ~ Libraries, workforce development programs, community organizations, and professional associations

    Presented by Rosie Zilinskas, a Certified High Performance Coach, keynote speaker, and former Executive Vice President with over 30 years of corporate leadership experience.

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  • From Talent to Income: Turning Creativity into a Business

    Valeria Gershanova, Music Label Manager, MEGAO Inc.

    Creativity is powerful — but talent alone does not build wealth. In this dynamic and practical session, I break down how to transform skills, passion, and artistic ability into sustainable income streams. This presentation explores the shift from thinking like a creator to operating like a CEO. I share real-world strategies on branding, positioning, monetization models, audience building, and execution. Attendees will learn how to package their expertise, create multiple revenue streams, avoid common entrepreneurial mistakes, and move from hobby mindset to business strategy. MORE >

    This talk is designed for creatives, artists, entrepreneurs, and aspiring founders who are ready to stop waiting for opportunities — and start building their own.

    Participants will leave with:
    • A clear framework for monetizing their talent
    • Practical strategies to build a personal brand
    • Action steps to launch or scale a creative business
    • A mindset shift from “creative” to “creative entrepreneur”

    This is not just inspiration — it’s a blueprint.

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  • 21st Century Leadership

    Scott Hansen, CEO, Scott Hansen Consulting

    In this high energy presentation, High Performance Coach, Scott Hansen, shares the importance of "21st Century Leadership Rules" that you must know. If you don't adapt these, your business might get left behind

    In 21st Century Leadership, you and your organization will walk away with the following: MORE >

    - Learn the importance of becoming a better leader
    - The (3) Income Producing Activities all business owners need to know
    - How to be more efficient and productive in your day
    - The importance of saying "NO" in your business
    - The One productivity strategy that Warren Buffet uses

     

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  • Non-Profit Business Strategies

    Lea Ann Skogsberg, Founder, Dollars and Sense

    With 30 years experience, Lea Ann offers customized talks on using social media, blogging, endowment, creating access for middle income donors, fundraising, new business models, grantwriting and trends across sectors.

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  • Off High Alert: Practical Nervous System Tools for High-Pressure Work Environments

    Ron Martin, Principal, Founder, Executive Coach, Ocean Park Strategic Advisors

    Many capable, high-performing professionals experience stress in their body even when things are going well at work.

    - A tight chest before meetings.
    - A jolt when emails come in.
    - A constant background sense of being “on edge.” MORE >

    This free talk introduces Off High Alert, a practical, body-first approach to understanding and reducing work-related stress that doesn’t rely on mindset shifts, positive thinking, or therapy.

    Participants will learn why the nervous system often stays on high alert in modern work environments and why “just relaxing” rarely works, even for highly competent, prepared professionals.

    This session is especially relevant for people who:

    - Feel physically reactive to emails, meetings, or work interactions before their brain has time to catch up
    - Stay functional and productive while feeling tense or exhausted underneath
    - Don’t want therapy, oversharing, or long emotional processing
    - Want practical tools that can be used during the workday, discreetly and effectively

    During this talk, attendees will:

    - Understand how and why stress shows up physically at work
    - Learn simple, in-the-moment nervous system regulation tools
    - Reframe stress responses without self-blame or pathologizing
    - Leave with a clear, repeatable way to help their body stand down in high-pressure situations

    This is a grounded, practical, work-safe talk designed to meet professionals where they are, without asking them to lower their standards, change who they are, or step away from their careers.

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  • Extreme Time Management – 5 Keys to Creating an Abundance of Time

    Tom Kelly, Business Coach, Potential In Motion

    In our fast paced world, it seems that we are expected to do more and more with less and less. If you are finding that there just aren’t enough hours in the day to get things done, then this presentation is for you. In this presentation, Master Certified Business Coach Tom Kelly discusses the 5 shifts that you need to make to create an abundance of time in your life and business. MORE >

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  • Think Like a CFO: Financial Strategies Every Business Leader Should Know

    Jennifer Witter, Founder and CEO, Witter Enterprise Solutions, LLC

    Strong financial leadership is essential for every successful organization, not just those in the finance department. In this presentation, Jennifer Witter shares practical insights from the perspective of a CFO to help leaders better understand financial performance, cash flow management, and strategic decision-making. Participants will learn how to interpret financial information, identify key indicators that impact business health, and make more informed decisions that support growth and stability. MORE >

    This talk is designed for executives, entrepreneurs, and managers who want to strengthen their financial awareness and lead their organizations with greater confidence.
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  • Civility in the Workplace During Turbulent Times

    Bette Lawrence-Water, Founder and Principal Consultant, Spectrum Strategic Solutions

    While a discussion on workplace manners and courtesy may seem like overkill, the reality is: rudeness is an epidemic costing industry millions a year. Indeed, what society seems to be gaining in terms of both knowledge and technological advancement, it’s losing out on basic social values that directly impact the bottom line. MORE >

    This discussion introduces the concept of civility, its importance to an organization, as well as its typical causes and effects. Audience leaves with skills needed to effectively practice civil behavior, as well knowledge of different ways organizations can systematize civility in the workplace.
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  • Computer Security Essentials

    Jody Jankovsky, Founder and Managing Member, Black|Line Consulting

    Black|Line's Security Essentials presentation focuses on the most common computer security issues facing people and businesses today. The talk describes the 4 primary threat categories and a series of technologies and best practices to protect yourself. The presentation can be made to fit a 30-60 minute format.

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