CEOs You Should Know - Chicago

CEOs You Should Know - Chicago

Welcome to CEOs You Should Know by iHeartMedia Chicago, the podcast that brings you inspiring stories and insightful conversations with some of the Windy City's most influential business leaders. Each episode, we dive deep into the journeys of Chicago's top entrepreneurs, CEOs, business leaders and innovators who are shaping the future of business. From startup success stories to corporate triumphs, our guests share their experiences, challenges, and the strategies that led them to the top. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or simply curious about the business world, this podcast offers valuable lessons and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to succeed in one of America's most dynamic cities. Tune in and get inspired by the leaders who are driving Chicago's economic growth and innovation.

Episodes

September 18, 2025 29 mins
In this episode, we talk with with Jordan Justus, CEO and Co-founder of Automotus. Automotus is a first-of-its-kind automated curb management solution that helps cities reduce emissions.
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In this episode, iHeartMedia Chicago Region President Adam Kurtz talks with Kurt Kane, President and CEO of TruGreen.

An innovative and people-first leader, Kurt brings more than 25 years of experience with a focus on employee engagement and customer satisfaction to achieve strong company growth. Prior to joining TruGreen, he served as President, U.S., and Chief Commercial Officer at The Wendy's Company where he was responsible for ...
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In this episode, iHeartMedia Chicago Region President Adam Kurtz talks with David Konsoer, Vice President of Sales at Proven Winners, a leading brand in the horticulture industry known for innovation and quality in ornamental plants.

David shares his unique career path and how his passion for plants and people has shaped his leadership style. He dives into the strategies behind building a trusted national brand, the evolving trends ...
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In this episode, iHearMedia Chicago Region President Adam Kurtz sits down with Jeffrey Haydon, the President and CEO of the Ravinia Festival, the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States. Together, they explore the dynamic intersection of tradition and innovation in the performing arts.

Jeffrey shares insights into his journey from arts management to helming one of the nation's most iconic cultural institutions. From progr...
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Jay Timmons is president and CEO of the National Association of Manufacturers and one of the longest-serving trade association leaders in America. Under his leadership, the NAM has doubled in size and helped manufacturers achieve sweeping wins on tax reform, infrastructure, regulatory certainty—and in reshaping the perception of manufacturing and manufacturing careers. Jay is a respected voice across the political spectrum, trusted...
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In this inspiring episode of CEOs You Should Know, iHeartMedia Chicago's Adam Kurtz sits down with Dr. Lynette Stokes, the trailblazing President of South Suburban College.

Dr. Stokes shares her remarkable journey to leadership—reflecting on the pivotal moments, challenges, and values that shaped her path to becoming the first woman and African American president of the college.With a deep commitment to equity and student success, D...
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In this episode of CEOs You Should Know, Adam Kurtz sits down with Lance Neuhauser, CEO of Wendy by The Story Company, to explore how the company is redefining consumer engagement through innovative tech.

Lance shares his journey, leadership philosophy, and the bold vision behind his success. Wendy is a new kind of story company, helping kids rediscover the joy of reading through its innovative reading entertainment app. By providin...
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March 28, 2025 17 mins
Aizik Zimerman is the CEO and owner of J. Blanton Plumbing, a leading residential plumbing company based in Chicago. Under his leadership, the company has experienced significant growth, tripling in size within a short period. Zimerman attributes this success to cultivating a winning company culture and implementing innovative marketing strategies. ​

Tune in as Aizik chats with iHeartMedia Chicago President Adam Kurtz about the posi...
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