Smart Business Chicago

At RB Pеѕt Solutions, they dоn't rеѕt untіl they get rіd of your pеѕt. Robiar Smith, CEO of RB Pest Solutions shares her story on how she got into the pest control business and the ways her company educates clients. With over 30 years of experience in the pest control industry, Robiar knows how to provide immediate resolutions with long term results.

We kick off Women’s History Month by highlighting the work of City Clerk of Chicago Anna M. Valencia. She is one of three city-wide elected officials in the City of Chicago, at a time where all three positions are held by females. As City Clerk, Valencia has focused on making government accessible to all Chicagoans. Under her leadership, new and innovative initiatives have been spearheaded to bring services directly to residents. Listen to learn about her career in public service, the Chicago City Key, and recent fee and debt reforms.

Whether you are a tea enthusiast or have stayed true to black tea, TeaGschwendner is ready to serve you the perfect cup. The artisan tea company is based out of Germany and it’s two only U.S. locations are here in Chicago. Agnieszka Rapacz, the President and Tea Sommelier, saw the opportunity for customers to travel the world through a cup of tea. From her corporate background, she was able to leverage the importance of customer service, community involvement and a strong business model.

Entrepreneurs can either be overwhelmed with business resources or not know where to find them. Noticing the wide array of business needs, World Business Chicago partnered with community organizations and City agencies to create ChiBizHub. Kendra Thomas, the Business Resource Manager at World Business Chicago, explains how the innovative web platform connects expert service providers to Chicago’s fast growing business community. For more, visit www.chibizhub.com

When you grow up surrounded by craftsman dedicated to their work, it’s hard not to feel inspired. That’s what happened to Joshua Marin of Fix Your Kicks. The young entrepreneur used his acquired skills for shoe repair to launch his business with customer service as a core value. Lace up and learn how Fix Your Kicks provides shoes and leather repair an affordable price without jeopardizing quality.

What happens when a media company dives into hospitality? For Time Out Market Chicago, it’s a recipe for success. The market is curated by Time Out Chicago editors who authentically have created a dining-and-culture experience at the 50,000 square feet food hall packing 18 eateries, three bars, a demo kitchen, a rooftop terrace and a video-installation wall. Morgan Olsen, Editor of Time Out Chicago, talks about the popular destination for both locals and tourists. The unique mix of Chicago’s culinary scene under one roof is ready for you to take a bite.