Phil discusses the importance of making businesses recession-proof and AI-proof in the face of rapid technological advancements. He emphasizes the need for employers to adapt and employees to develop AI skills, such as prompt engineering, to stay relevant. He shares personal experiences with AI tools like ChatGPT, highlighting both their potential and limitations. He identifies industries most affected by AI, such as customer service, legal document review, and transportation, and those least affected, like health and cybersecurity. He advises leveraging AI for innovation and competitive advantage while maintaining human interaction and problem-solving skills.

Connect with Philip: 

Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/ 

Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/ 

"X": https://x.com/FornaroLaw 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw 

https://www.facebook.com/philip.fornaro.3/ 

Horton’s Home Lighting

Lighting isn’t just about seeing – it’s about how a space feels.

Thoughtful design. Expert execution. Real impact.

https://www.hortonshome.com/

Nick Dubak: Partner & Officer in charge of project development and administration for the Dubak Electrical Group, including Construction, Maintenance, & Design for the Firm. With many years of project diversity in the industrial electrical sector, innovative project delivery techniques, as well as experience in fast-track project delivery, assure seamless completion of client projects. Specialties: Innovative Solutions and Specialties to the Following Industries: Industrial Electrical Design, Construction, and Maintenance of Steel Tubing, Petrochemical, Chemical, Food, Beverage, Dairy, Meat Processing, Steel Mill, Natural Gas Compression Stations, General Manufacturing, Cellulosic Ethanol Facilities, Aluminum Hot / Cold Mills. 

Frank Filec: He started his career in the public sector, working his way from laborer to director of public works. He recently shifted into entrepreneurship in the industrial and commercial construction industry.

In this episode, Philip, Nick Dubak, and Frank Filec discuss: 

• The trades are evolving and thriving
• Leadership and entrepreneurship demand both vision and accountability
• Adaptability is the entrepreneur’s superpower
• Business strategy must match today’s environment

Lightbulb Moments:

• Modern trades are highly technical, essential to the economy, and offer high-paying careers without the burden of college debt. They require skills in programming, digital tools, and real-world problem-solving, making them a strong alternative to traditional education paths.
• Successful entrepreneurs build credibility by solving complex problems and taking ownership. Servant leadership means taking responsibility for failures, sharing credit for successes, and guiding others with humility and clarity.
• From shifting client needs to team dynamics and AI tools like ChatGPT, the ability to adapt, learn quickly, and stay resourceful is key to long-term success.
• Sales conversations now involve multiple decision-makers, requiring thoughtful communication and broader strategy. Mentorship also comes from many people, not just one source, each contributing to a more complete skill set.

“Be passionate about what you do. Bring 100% every day and more… Don't let the chaos control you. You've got to control it.” - Nick Dubak

"Every day is a different problem which requires a different skill set, and it's exciting." - Frank Filec

Connect with Nick Dubak:

Website: https://www.dubakelectrical.com/chicago 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ndubak/ 

Connect with Frank Filec:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francis-filec-434019177/  

Connect with Philip: 

Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/ 

Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/ 

"X": https://x.com/FornaroLaw 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw 

https://www.facebook.com/philip.fornaro.3/ 

Horton’s Home Lighting

Lighting isn’t just about seeing – it’s about how a space feels.

Thoughtful design. Expert execution. Real impact.

https://www.hortonshome.com/

Phil emphasizes the importance of access and networking, citing examples like Russ Steinberg's hydroponic farming startup and his own experiences with high net worth individuals and lobbyists. He advises aiming high, always networking, and never being afraid to ask for access.

Connect with Philip:

Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/ 

Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/ 

"X": https://x.com/FornaroLaw 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw 

https://www.facebook.com/philip.fornaro.3/ 

Horton’s Home Lighting

Lighting isn’t just about seeing – it’s about how a space feels.

Thoughtful design. Expert execution. Real impact.

https://www.hortonshome.com/

Mike is the founder of O’Meara Capital and CFit Holding Corporation and currently serves on the board of Auctus Capital, Quantum Corridor, Silver Spoons, and Scout. He has over 30 years of experience in trading, investing, and strategic advisory. He began his career at Goldman Sachs and spent over a decade trading on the Chicago Board of Trade and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. Since 2005, he has focused on managing private investments across sectors including healthcare, insurance, energy, and financial services. Known for his long-term mindset and authentic leadership, Mike continues to guide entrepreneurs and businesses through growth, capital strategy, and economic resilience.

In this episode, Philip and Mike O'Meara discuss: 

• Relationships build resilience
• Work on yourself, grow your business
• Align before you build
• Play the long game

Lightbulb Moments:

• Genuine, long-term success comes from authentic relationships, not quick wins. Trust, respect, and fairness matter more than extracting maximum value in a single deal.
• Personal development fuels professional excellence. Daily habits like journaling, meditation, and focus planning sharpen the mind, and the business follows suit.
• Choosing the right partners means seeking shared values, complementary skills, and a common vision. The right partnership is often more powerful than solo expertise.
• Whether in investing or entrepreneurship, patience and authenticity are key. Cash flow matters, but so does timing, reputation, and the willingness to wait for real growth.

“It's not what you're doing in life, it's who you're doing it with.” - Mike O'Meara

Connect with Mike O'Meara: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-o-meara-8407893b/ 

Connect with Philip: 

Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/ 

Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/ 

"X": https://x.com/FornaroLaw 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw 

https://www.facebook.com/philip.fornaro.3/ 

Horton’s Home Lighting

Lighting isn’t just about seeing – it’s about how a space feels.

Thoughtful design. Expert execution. Real impact.

https://www.hortonshome.com/

Phil celebrates reaching 100 episodes of his podcast, reflecting on its growth and impact. He discusses the importance of making businesses recession-proof, emphasizing the need to adapt to economic uncertainties, such as inflation, tariffs, and wars. Phil shares his firm's experience during the 2008 financial crisis, where they shifted from residential deals to debtor attorney services. He advises diversifying client bases, having a competitive edge, and embracing technology. Phil also stresses the importance of financial planning, asset protection, and maintaining a flexible team to pivot during economic downturns.

Connect with Philip: 

Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/ 

Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/ 

"X": https://x.com/FornaroLaw 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw 

https://www.facebook.com/philip.fornaro.3/ 

Horton’s Home Lighting

Lighting isn’t just about seeing – it’s about how a space feels.

Thoughtful design. Expert execution. Real impact.

https://www.hortonshome.com/

Danielle Drabkin is Founder & CEO of Chicago-based startup, Pear Chef, disrupting the way Food & Beverage is brought on-site to urban, luxury buildings. Pear Chef brings this exciting culinary amenity to multi-family and office buildings through the use of RFID technology and smart fridges. 

Prior to founding Pear Chef, Danielle Drabkin was Chief Sales Officer at Pretty Quick, a SaaS based spa booking platform. Pretty Quick got acquired by Groupon in 2016. 

Danielle’s focus out of graduate school was within the Real Estate Finance industry, where she worked for major real estate developers and REITs. She has been a member of the Investment Management Team at both Equity Office and Vornado, two of the country’s largest REITs. 

Danielle is also an Adjunct Professor at DePaul University’s Driehaus School of Business. 

She holds an M.B.A. from DePaul University and has also received her B.B.A. from The George Washington University.

In this episode, Philip and Danielle Drabkin discuss: 

• Why startups fail
• Managing stress
• Scaling smart
• Product-market fit

Lightbulb Moments:

• Founders must preserve both capital and conviction. Most startups fail because they either run out of money or the founder loses passion.
• Stress is inevitable, but mindset matters. Embracing daily challenges with resilience can free up time and energy.
• To scale effectively, build slowly and deliberately. A solid, tested foundation allows for faster, more sustainable growth later.
• True product-market fit is intuitive and transformative. Great products feel indispensable once experienced, even if users didn’t know they needed them.

“Startups go out of business, usually for one of two reasons: either they run out of money, or the founder runs out of passion.” - Danielle Drabkin

Pear Chef (Video of Offering): 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNiMHS19nYw 

Connect with Danielle Drabkin: 

Website: www.pearchef.com 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pearchef/ 

Connect with Philip: 

Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/ 

Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/ 

"X": https://x.com/FornaroLaw 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw 

https://www.facebook.com/philip.fornaro.3/ 

Horton’s Home Lighting

Lighting isn’t just about seeing – it’s about how a space feels.

Thoughtful design. Expert execution. Real impact.

https://www.hortonshome.com/

Michael Schodrof brings over 25 years of experience in financial services, beginning with a successful career in institutional equity sales where he advised money managers, insurance firms, and hedge funds on capital formation and investment strategy. Today, he serves as Vice President of Investments at Schodrof Capital, part of Alex. Brown – Raymond James, where he provides tailored wealth strategies for business owners, corporate executives, and family offices.

He holds the CEPA® (Certified Exit Planning Advisor) and CFA® (Chartered Financial Analyst) designations, reflecting his expertise in business transition planning and capital markets. Michael specializes in helping clients view their companies as capital assets—not just sources of income—guiding them through strategic exits and long-term planning.

Based in Chicago, Michael is committed to helping clients navigate pivotal life events, prepare for retirement, and grow their wealth with foresight. His approach emphasizes that strong planning on the front end can unlock greater wealth than even the best reactive investment management.

In this episode, Philip and Michael Schodrof discuss: 

• Network with a generous mindset
• Understand emotional capital
• Plan for the unexpected
• Grow with integrity

Lightbulb Moments:

• True networking isn’t transactional—it’s about giving first. Building relationships with the long game in mind, taking risks to connect meaningfully, and stepping out of your comfort zone often lead to the most rewarding professional bonds.
• In the entrepreneurial world, money is emotional. Business owners often see their companies as deeply personal, so recognizing this emotional layer is vital for anyone navigating deals, investments, or partnerships.
• A successful business exit depends more on preparation than timing. Most transitions are triggered by unforeseen life events, and treating a business as a capital asset rather than a personal ATM allows for stronger wealth outcomes.
• Professional and personal development require consistency, curiosity, and character. Embrace new learning opportunities, remain open to new groups, and always lead with integrity—because even when no one's watching, your example speaks volumes.

“If you approach networking, and the question in the back of your head is always, 'What's in it for me,' you are absolutely missing out on what it's all about.” - Michael Schodrof

Connect with Michael Schodrof: 

Website: https://www.alexbrown.com/schodrofcapital/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelschodrof/ 

Connect with Philip: 

Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/ 

Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/ 

"X": https://x.com/FornaroLaw 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw 

https://www.facebook.com/philip.fornaro.3/

Horton’s Home Lighting

Lighting isn’t just about seeing – it’s about how a space feels.

Thoughtful design. Expert execution. Real impact.

https://www.hortonshome.com/

Phil shared a story about using ChatGPT to find a restaurant, highlighting the value of presentations for businesses. He discussed a recent presentation on trucking and transportation, which led to new client connections and networking opportunities. Phil emphasized the benefits of presentations, including gaining strategic partners, creating content, and improving public speaking skills. 

Connect with Philip: 

Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/ 

Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/ 

"X": https://x.com/FornaroLaw 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw 

https://www.facebook.com/philip.fornaro.3/

Horton’s Home Lighting

Lighting isn’t just about seeing – it’s about how a space feels.

Thoughtful design. Expert execution. Real impact.

https://www.hortonshome.com/

Henry Kaskov has spent his entire career in business valuation and financial consulting. His journey began as a consultant in the disputes and investigations division of a large consulting firm, where he traveled internationally to assist multinational corporations and financial institutions with complex financial and regulatory matters. His path next led him to a boutique business valuation firm, where he spent over ten years performing business valuations and providing litigation support services, serving as a Managing Director for several years. In mid-2020, Henry founded KVi,  beginning the next chapter in his journey.

Henry grew up in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago and attended the University of Illinois, where he earned a degree in finance and a concentration in economics. He also met his wife, Jessica, and after graduation, they moved to California. After several years of enjoying everything there is to love about the West Coast, they moved back to their sweet home, Chicago, to start a family.

They have their hands full with two young boys, Riley and Parker, whose insatiable curiosity and energy are something to admire. When not spending time with the family or working, Henry enjoys mountain biking, camping, hiking, golfing, and a good craft beer or bourbon cocktail.

In this episode, Philip and Henry Kaskov discuss: 

• Beginning with clarity and intentionality
• Planning to scale wisely 
• Determining your business value 
• Investing in your growth 

Lightbulb Moments:

• Start with clarity and intentionality by defining client needs, business goals, and personal values. Proactive planning—both financially and strategically—creates a solid foundation for growth.
• Plan to scale wisely, hiring before you're overwhelmed, and understanding salary benchmarks. Minimize uncertainty by working with trusted people and structuring your time with intention.
• Know your business value early through valuations that inform transitions, tax strategies, and long-term planning. A solid financial advisory team is key to preparing for future opportunities.
• Invest in your personal growth, confronting doubt, and staying open to new perspectives. Small, value-driven actions can lead to meaningful, long-term impact in both life and business.

“The smallest deeds can have huge impacts.” - Henry Kaskov

Connect with Henry Kaskov: 

Website: https://www.kaskovvaluations.com/ 

Connect with Philip: 

Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/ 

Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/ 

"X": https://x.com/FornaroLaw 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw 

https://www.facebook.com/philip.fornaro.3/ 

Horton’s Home Lighting

Lighting isn’t just about seeing – it’s about how a space feels.

Thoughtful design. Expert execution. Real impact.

https://www.hortonshome.com/

Phil discusses the distinction between happiness and joy, emphasizing that true joy comes from deep, meaningful experiences. He reflects on his own journey of finding joy through his podcast and shares insights on managing emotions, particularly his own lack of emotional expression. Phil highlights the importance of understanding and controlling emotions to improve interactions and avoid overpowering others. He also touches on the fear of change, noting that many people struggle with it and how it impacts their lives. 

Connect with Philip: 

Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/ 

Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/ 

"X": https://x.com/FornaroLaw 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw 

https://www.facebook.com/philip.fornaro.3/

Horton’s Home Lighting

Lighting isn’t just about seeing – it’s about how a space feels.

Thoughtful design. Expert execution. Real impact.

https://www.hortonshome.com/