Peoria Business Champs

Our guest this week is the one and only Pete Koyak from Fourwinds RV in East Peoria! Pete is the General Manager of two locations, so Jennifer was so excited to finally track him down and have him on the show. This week, we talk about employee retention, leading by example, and reviews!

This week's business champ is Michelle Rouland from Escape 60 here in Peoria. Michelle and her husband, Steve own Escape 60, the best Escape Rooms in Peoria. We loved hearing Michelle's story of resilience, hard work, and working with her spouse. We can't wait for you to hear this episode!!

This week you'll hear from Jeanine Wester from Peoria Architectural Salvage, one of our favorite Peoria businesses! Jennifer and Jeanine talk old buildings, Peoria history, and all things about running a business.

Today on the podcast, Jennifer chats with Caroline and John Lahood, founders of ColorForge in Peoria! John is also the manager of family owned LaGondola Spaghetti House. Together, they talked about the entrepreneurial spirit, putting in the work, working with family, and so much more!

You do NOT want to miss today's podcast! Jennifer met with owner Sara O'Shea from So Chic Boutique to talk the ins and outs of listening to your gut, trusting your intuition, and loving what you do.

This week's Business Champ is Verlo Mattress' Owner and Operator, Leonard Bertuli. Leonard was an engineer for many years, but decided he wanted to switch things up. So, he opened Verlo Peoria, where you can watch your mattress being handmade! 

Featured on Peoria Business Champs today is business owner, coach, speaker, and Founder of I've Decided, Kim Martin. Kim talks all about handling self-doubt, firing employees, group coaching, and her "Veggie" Days. 

CEO Jessica Tharp joins us on the podcast today. As the CEO and President of the Better Business Bureau of Central Illinois, Jessica talks all about business accreditation, customer service, and how online complaints can be a good thing!

Today on the show is owner Ryan Donnelly of Peoria's oldest Irish Pub, talking with us about family business, the restaurant industry, and St. Patrick's Day celebrations. 

Joining us this week is Buddy Courdt, 4th generation owner of Raber Packing Co. in Peoria, IL. Buddy and Jennifer talk about how to find success with a family-owned business with over 70 employees. 

In our debut episode, we chat with artist, life coach, and business owner, Robin Albright to discuss effective business practices. 

Welcome to Peoria Business Champs! Just like people, businesses have their own unique story. On this podcast, we interview local business leaders to discuss their business and their journey so far!