Today we are excited to reconnect with Caleb Benoit, the founder and owner of Connect Roasters, based in Bourbonnais, Illinois.

In this episode, Caleb shares the journey of transforming his business from a one-man operation into a thriving enterprise with a cafe and a dedicated team. He opens up about the challenges and rewards of leadership, especially the importance of communication as his team grew. "You become focused more outward. Everything cannot live inside of my head," Caleb reflects, emphasizing the shift in mindset from solo-preneur to CEO.

We explore the intricacies of the coffee industry, from the roasting process to community engagement through educational courses and events. Caleb reveals the excitement of tasting sessions and how Connect Roasters is more than just a cafe – it's a hub for learning and connection.

Finally, the episode delves into the balance Caleb strikes between running his business and uplifting the local community, inspiring fellow entrepreneurs and community supporters alike. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or business leader, Caleb's experiences offer valuable perspectives on growth and community leadership.

So grab your favorite brew and join us for an episode rich in insights, local flavor, and the spirit of entrepreneurship. Don't forget to subscribe for more conversations that inspire and elevate.

Welcome back to another engaging episode of Leadership Level Up. I'm your host, Jeff Williamson, and today, I've got the pleasure of welcoming back Jakob Knox, CEO of the Manteno Chamber of Commerce, for another insightful discussion on leadership and community building! 

In this episode, Jakob shares his journey from high school kid working for the park district to his current role as CEO. We discuss the importance of connectedness and the power of collaboration in leadership. Jakob reflects on the pivotal role of listening and building deeper relationships, emphasizing that his leadership style is marked by empowering others to "bring that thing to reality."

Jacob and I explore the future of leadership, discussing his aspirations to foster the next generation of small business owners and entrepreneurs in Mantino. "There's opportunity. There's so much opportunity," Jakob notes, as he envisions creating spaces for diverse communities to have a voice and a seat at the table.

Join us as Jakob shares valuable insights on nurturing a supportive environment for growth and innovation, demonstrating how leaders can impact their communities positively. Remember to subscribe for more conversations on leadership, authenticity, and community empowerment.

Welcome back to another thought-provoking episode! I'm your host, Jeff Williamson, and today I am thrilled to be joined by the dynamic Ty Lewis, a transformative leader dedicated to empowering future-focused communities.

In this episode, Ty shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings in the Quad Cities to becoming a prominent consultant and speaker through his engagement in leadership, real estate, and mentoring. We delve into the pivotal moments that shaped Ty's path, such as the profound impact of early mentors, his transformative educational experiences, and his passion for strengths-based development. Ty reflects on the importance of mentors like John Michelle Clavon and John Anderson, who instilled in him the values of intentionality and love in leadership.

A central theme of our discussion is the impact of authentic care and love in the workplace, as Ty notes, "Leadership is when you care, love, go out your way, you're intentional about helping others, you're giving them resources." We explore how this philosophy not only fosters a positive environment but also drives business success and employee engagement.

Ty also discusses his approach to leadership through a strengths-based lens and the power of exposure. He encourages listeners to embrace opportunities for growth and community involvement, encapsulating this with the insightful takeaway: "Your level of exposure is going to determine your level of success."

Join us as we navigate Ty's remarkable story, discovering how intentional leadership and community involvement can shape not only a career but also a transformative life journey. Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss more engaging discussions on leadership and impact!