Free Business Topics in Chicago

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3: Browse for a topic, Click the orange request button, Fill out the contact form.
Now the speaker will contact you in the next few days to coordinate details.

  • Expect the Unexpected: Navigating the Tightrope of Expectations, Communication, and Boundaries

    Marie Genevieve Pawlak, Managing Principal , Prime Alchemy a division of Planning101 Group

    Ever felt like you're walking a tightrope between what's expected, what's communicated, and where the lines are drawn? You're not alone! Dive into an exhilarating journey with us as we unravel the art of juggling expectations, mastering the craft of crystal-clear communication, and drawing lines that everyone respects (and maybe even appreciates!). MORE >

    We're here to share some game-changing strategies and insights in a world where the only constant is change, and the lines often seem more like squiggles. Join us for a session that promises not just lightbulb moments but fireworks! Expect to laugh, nod in agreement, and maybe even facepalm as we explore the often comical, sometimes challenging, but always crucial world of expectations, communication, and boundaries.
    Request This Free Speech

  • Every Organization Needs a System for Getting Things Done

    Robert Starinsky, MBA, MS, CCP, ASBC, Principal, Tradewinds Group, Inc.

    Disorganization. Confusion. Inconsistent Results. Missed Opportunities. Lost Customers. Privacy Breeches. Unable to take a day off (even if you need one). MORE >

    If you have uttered any of these words or thoughts, chances are that your organization is lacking the necessary basic business management systems it needs to have in place in order to operate like a well-oiled machine.

    Why does a McDonalds hamburger taste the same, no matter where in the world you're at?

    How does your one-person dentist office see five patients simultaneously?

    How about a one-word answer to both of these questions: Systems!

    Yes, it's because both McDonalds and your dentist have mastered systems thinking in their business operations. Although business worlds apart, both McDonalds and your dentist are leveraging the power of systems thinking to streamline their operations and generate predictable, consistent, repeatable results every business day.

    In this brief, informative presentation you'll learn about how every organization can benefit by leveraging systems thinking.

    This presentation is available virtually to audiences across the country, or locally, on an in-person basis, COVID restrictions permitting.

    Request This Free Speech

  • Enriching Your Nonprofit Through Planned Giving

    Robert J. Varak, Law Offices of Robert J. Varak

    Learn how to establish a system whereby your organization can systematically improve its funding via the estate plans of potential donors. Most nonprofits receive periodic and inconsistent donations via this revenue stream, but I will explain how to utilize planned giving programs to improve fundraising across the board, not only via bequests. MORE >

    A small investment of time and resources on behalf of your nonprofit can result in a significant return, as well as improved branding and standing in your field. It's an overlooked aspect of development, and my presentation will draw on my experience advising nonprofits to give you all the tools necessary to leverage this opportunity to the fullest.
    Request This Free Speech

  • Empowering the Multi-Generational Workforce

    Mary Erlain, President, Peak Development Strategies

    Much has changed since 2020. Our generations have changed dramatically. One entire generation has retired, and another one has joined in more significant numbers. MORE >

    We work in a diverse workplace. Diversity can drive business growth if you empower your workforce to use their own unique gifts and values. The challenges organizations struggle with are finding ways to do just that, empowering their staff. Learn ways to help bridge the differences between staff members of different generations. Understand how we can be (without intention) enabling the problem instead of being part of the solution.
    Request This Free Speech

  • Emotional Intelligence for Leadership Success

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

    In today's dynamic and fast-paced business environment, effective leadership is not just about making strategic decisions or achieving bottom-line results—it's also about understanding and effectively managing the emotions of oneself and others. As a seasoned speaker and expert in emotional intelligence for leadership success, I provide invaluable insights and practical strategies to help leaders excel in their roles. MORE >

    The role of organizational culture cannot be understated when it comes to shaping leaders' emotional intelligence skills. By fostering a culture that prioritizes empathy, self-awareness, and psychological safety, organizations can empower leaders to develop stronger emotional intelligence competencies. This includes the ability to understand and regulate their own emotions, as well as effectively navigate the emotions of others.

    By leveraging my expertise in emotional intelligence, interpersonal communications, and culture change, I work with organizations to cultivate environments that support the growth and development of emotionally intelligent leaders. Through tailored interventions and practical guidance, I help leaders enhance their ability to lead with authenticity, empathy, and resilience.

    Ultimately, fostering a culture of emotional intelligence not only benefits individual leaders but also has far-reaching implications for organizational success. Leaders who possess strong emotional intelligence skills are better equipped to inspire trust and collaboration, navigate change and adversity, and foster a positive and inclusive work environment.

    In essence, my approach to emotional intelligence for leadership success is rooted in empowering leaders to harness the power of emotions to drive positive outcomes and foster a culture of excellence. By equipping leaders with the skills and knowledge they need to lead with authenticity and empathy, I help organizations build stronger, more effective leadership teams and achieve sustainable success.

    Request This Free Speech

  • E-Commerce Success – Beyond The Technology!

    Tim Campbell, CEO, VaporBeast.com

    There are literally millions of websites and e-commerce companies that flood the web. Most fail, however some have enormous success. Find out how Tim Campbell, partners, and team built VaporBeast.com to be one of the fastest growing e-commerce companies in the United States in less than five years. MORE >

    Tim Campbell is the Founder and CEO of VaporBeast.com. He started the company with a single product he invented, and today his company develops and distributes over 2,500 items in the dynamically growing e-cigarette industry. Find out how Tim and team built a leading brand that now ships over 15,000+ items a day to consumers and brick and mortar retailers throughout the United States.

    As much as technology, SEO, and a robust web platform have contributed...Tim attributes his company's success to other factors such as integrity, service, culture, passion and market timing! This is an inspirational story that shows that the American Dream is still alive and well!

    Request This Free Speech

  • Don’t Jump Out of That Plane | How to Control Your Brain to Make Youself Limitless

    Mike Opyd, President, RE/MAX NEXT

    Everyone has a comfort zone that our brains try to keep us in. This comfort zone is built to help us survive. But what happens when we get outside of our comfort zone? The only way to escape it is to understand why the zone exists and what we can do to battle all of the forces that are trying to keep us in it. MORE >

    Did you know your brain has two functions, one to keep you alive and two to keep you safe? It's the latter that controls you more than anything. But what if you could control it? What would you do if you were able to be limitless? I have spent a lot of time understanding how our brains work and how we can control them. If you want to know how you can take control of your brain please reach out and let's discuss more.

    I'd love an opportunity to come and speak to any audience big or small. If you have any questions please contact me! I look forward to the opportunity to help!

    Request This Free Speech

  • Developing a Revenue-Based Approach to Digital Marketing

    Franklin D. Rivera II, Founder/CEO, The V2M2 Group, Inc.

    Many small businesses struggle with how to start marketing their businesses online. They know that it is the future and the right thing to do, but are confused with where to start. Agencies are telling them that they need social media, or SEO or a new website. But how do you know what you need and how do you know what to spend to reach your goals? MORE >

    Franklin has taken his 20+ years of sales and marketing experience with Fortune 100 companies and combined it with his knowledge of business and finance to create a model for digital marketing that has helped many companies achieve double-digit growth through online efforts. Franklin will share this process with you to help your business develop a laser-focused online marketing strategy that will generate real results.

    Request This Free Speech

  • Cyber Threat Survival Guide Protecting Your Business from Harm

    Christopher Higgins, Cyber Security Analyst, CCS Technology Group

    In this dynamic and engaging presentation, we will take a deep dive into the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity. Join us as we review the current threat landscape, educate you on common cyber attacks, explore the motivations behind these hacking endeavors, and, most importantly, equip you with practical strategies to protect yourself and your business from the lurking bad actors. MORE >

    With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated by the day, it is crucial to understand the risks you face. Our presentation will shed light on the tactics employed by hackers, helping you decode their methods and motives. We will explore the inner workings of various cyber attacks, from phishing scams to ransomware, all presented in a conversational and approachable manner that even non-technical audiences can grasp.

    Armed with this knowledge, you will learn how to fortify your defenses and mitigate vulnerabilities. We will share key cybersecurity best practices and actionable steps, empowering you to safeguard your digital assets. From implementing strong passwords and multi-factor authentication to educating your employees about social engineering techniques, we will cover it all.

    Join us for this eye-opening presentation and take the first step towards building a resilient cybersecurity posture. Don't wait for the bad actors to strike - together, we can overcome the cyber threats that loom in the digital realm.

    Request This Free Speech

  • Customer Communication

    Thomas Herman, Managing Director, CRO RoundTable

    Customer communication is hard work, really hard work. Any business/organization, of any size, should have a strategy for delivering their value to all customers, prospects, investors, donors, etc. etc. Whether your communication is to retain existing customers, attract and win new customers, attract and win new donors your communications styles, techniques and execution needs to be well thought out. Do all employees (and even volunteers) understand the importance of each communication regardless of method? We will explore strategies and techniques that can work in your operation. MORE >

    Request This Free Speech