The year was 2007. I was on a rooftop celebrating the birthdays of my best friend Mike and his family. Summer air. City lights. Laughter. It was one of those Chicago evenings you don’t think twice about — until it becomes the moment everything changes. And then there was this guy. Sitting a little mysteriously off to the side. Flip phone in hand. Quiet. Observing. Marek. I caught his eye once. And I knew he had caught mine. The plan for the night was simple: head to a blues

In today’s crowded media landscape, the opportunity to own the narrative is more accessible than ever. Where organizations once competed for local or national coverage to amplify their message, today we have the tools to communicate directly, instantly, and authentically—on our own terms. Many leaders talk about controlling the narrative. And sure, you can try. But in most cases, that’s an uphill battle. Take a familiar example: a shooting occurs in downtown Chicago. If you

My network isn’t a list of contacts saved in my phone, collection of LinkedIn connections, or a drawer filled with random business cards… It’s a web of real relationships—built on trust, loyalty, and a shared belief that we’re better when we support one another. I genuinely enjoy meeting people. Not because I’m looking for something, but because I believe everyone brings value to the table. The Concierge and the CEO carry the same weight in my mind. Titles don’t define contri

As I begin my 44th trip around the sun, and instead of measuring the year ahead by goals or milestones, I find myself asking a quieter—but more meaningful—question: How will I show up in a way that leaves the world better than it was during my first 43 trips? Before challenging myself for the year ahead, I look to what grounds me. I’ve always been a natural connector—a leader who thrives when helping others, opening doors, and learning along the way. These qualities aren’t ac