The Executives' Exchange

Hosted by The Executives' Club of Chicago

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Aug 2026

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About the show

The Executives' Exchange is a podcast of the Executives' Club of Chicago, the city's premier membership organization and business forum. Each episode unlocks the keys to success from distinguished executives in the Chicago region through real stories of triumphs and failures, meaning connections and lessons learned in their leadership journeys. Sponsored by Shure Incorporated

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60 recent

September 2, 202647 min

Beyond The Loop | Episode 004 - Purpose, Innovation & Leadership in an Age of Fracture With Dr. Patty Lindstrom and Bill Pasmore

In this episode of Beyond The Loop , Dr. Patty Lindstrom, Founder of Creative Logic, and Bill Pasmore, Professor of Practice in Social Organizational Psychology at Columbia University, explore how purpose can transform everyday work into meaningful impact. Drawing on her doctoral research and book, Purpose at Work , Patty introduces a practical, evidence-based model showing how organizations that operationalize purpose build three critical conditions: Clarity in direction, decisions, and priorities; Confidence through trust, shared values, and collaboration; and Commitment to sustainable performance and resilience over time. The conversation moves beyond inspiration to application, examining how leaders embed purpose into strategy, culture, and daily decision-making to drive coordinated execution, meaningful innovation, and long-term value creation. From what happens when clarity, confidence, or commitment breaks down, to how the best leaders activate purpose across their organizations, this episode offers a roadmap for why purpose is no longer optional — it's foundational. Subscribe on Apple , Spotify , YouTube , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thank you to our podcast sponsor, Shure Incorporated . For nearly 100 years, Shure Incorporated has developed best-in-class audio products that provide high-quality performance, reliability, and value. Headquartered in Niles, Illinois, our history of innovation and expertise in acoustics, wireless technology, and more enables us to deliver seamless, transparent audio experiences to a global audience. Our diverse product line includes world-class wired and wireless microphones, networked audio systems and signal processors, conferencing and discussion systems, software, a loudspeaker, and award-winning earphones and headphones. Find Shure on: Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

August 19, 202641 min

Episode 082 – Pivot with Purpose: The Courage to Change with Jeanne Sparrow, Author & Keynote Speaker

Careers are shaped as much by unexpected change as by growth. The most accomplished professionals share one skill: recognizing when it's time to pivot, and having the confidence to follow through. In this episode of Executives' Exchange, Jeanne Sparrow, Author and Keynote Speaker, reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her career, the mentors who challenged her to think beyond her current path, and the mindset it takes to embrace change. Discover how embracing change could bring opportunities you never expected. Subscribe on Apple , Spotify , YouTube , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thank you to our podcast sponsor, Shure Incorporated . For nearly 100 years, Shure Incorporated has developed best-in-class audio products that provide high-quality performance, reliability and value. Headquartered in Niles, Illinois, our history of innovation and expertise in acoustics, wireless technology, and more enables us to deliver seamless, transparent audio experiences to a global audience. Our diverse product line includes world-class wired and wireless microphones, networked audio systems and signal processors, conferencing and discussion systems, software, a loudspeaker, and award-winning earphones and headphones. Find Shure on: Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

July 28, 202642 min

Beyond The Loop | Episode 003 - The Fractional Advantage With Joe Fontana and John Frank

In this episode of Beyond the Loop , Joe Fontana, Founder of Fry the Coop , and John Frank, CEO of Third Road Manage ment , discuss how businesses can scale strategically without overextending resources. Through the lens of fractional leadership, they explore how companies can access specialized expertise at pivotal moments, strengthen financial operations, and build the infrastructure needed for long-term success. The conversation examines how the right talent and operational continuity can help growing businesses navigate change with confidence. From knowing when to bring in experienced leadership to creating scalable systems that support sustainable growth, this episode offers practical insights for business leaders looking to grow smarter, not just bigger. Subscribe on Apple , Spotify , YouTube , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thank you to our podcast sponsor, Shure Incorporated . For nearly 100 years, Shure Incorporated has developed best-in-class audio products that provide high-quality performance, reliability, and value. Headquartered in Niles, Illinois, our history of innovation and expertise in acoustics, wireless technology, and more enables us to deliver seamless, transparent audio experiences to a global audience. Our diverse product line includes world-class wired and wireless microphones, networked audio systems and signal processors, conferencing and discussion systems, software, a loudspeaker, and award-winning earphones and headphones. Find Shure on: Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

June 23, 202635 min

Beyond The Loop | Episode 002 - Culture Check: What Employees Expect Now, with Kristen Prinz and Christina Mesco

Employee expectations are changing — and workplace culture is changing with them. As organizations navigate growing demands for transparency, accountability, and trust, culture has become a defining factor in leadership effectiveness, talent retention, and long-term business performance. In this episode of Beyond the Loop, Kristen Prinz, Founder and Managing Partner of Prinz Law Firm, and Christina Hynes Mesco, Of Counsel at Prinz Law Firm, explore how leaders can build stronger workplace cultures in an increasingly complex environment. Drawing from their experience advising organizations on employment law, workplace investigations, and culture assessments, they discuss the warning signs leaders should watch for, the value of culture audits, and the challenges of turning employee feedback into meaningful action. The conversation examines how organizations can balance performance expectations with psychological safety, create accountability that extends beyond policy, and foster workplaces where trust, connection, and results can thrive together. Subscribe on Apple , Spotify , YouTube , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thank you to our podcast sponsor, Shure Incorporated . For nearly 100 years, Shure Incorporated has developed best-in-class audio products that provide high-quality performance, reliability and value. Headquartered in Niles, Illinois, our history of innovation and expertise in acoustics, wireless technology, and more enables us to deliver seamless, transparent audio experiences to a global audience. Our diverse product line includes world-class wired and wireless microphones, networked audio systems and signal processors, conferencing and discussion systems, software, a loudspeaker, and award-winning earphones and headphones. Find Shure on: Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

June 10, 202640 min

Episode 081 – Economic Indicators & Mid-Year Pulse Check with Dr. Bob Froehlich, Former Vice Chairman, Deutsche Asset Management

Dr. Bob joins Dorri for a mid-year pulse check, approximately six months after the Club's most recent Annual Economic & Market Outlook . The stakes are high and the signals are mixed. In a moment defined by shifting economic indicators, geopolitical tension, and evolving market confidence, business leaders are looking for clarity they can trust. This podcast episode features Dr. Bob Froehlich, Former Vice Chairman, Deutsche Asset Management, and a long-time speaker for The Executives' Club of Chicago's Annual Economic Outlook. Dr. Bob shares insights on key economic indicators from interest rates to inflation, following his 2025 prediction that the Dow could reach 50,000 by 2026 and his appearance during this year's Annual Economic Outlook. At a time when trust in markets and forecasts is being tested, this conversation focuses on clear analysis, practical perspective, and the opportunities ahead. Subscribe on Apple , Spotify , YouTube , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thank you to our podcast sponsor, Shure Incorporated . For nearly 100 years, Shure Incorporated has developed best-in-class audio products that provide high-quality performance, reliability and value. Headquartered in Niles, Illinois, our history of innovation and expertise in acoustics, wireless technology, and more enables us to deliver seamless, transparent audio experiences to a global audience. Our diverse product line includes world-class wired and wireless microphones, networked audio systems and signal processors, conferencing and discussion systems, software, a loudspeaker, and award-winning earphones and headphones. Find Shure on: Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

May 26, 202652 min

Beyond The Loop | Episode 001 - Chicago 2050: Innovation in Action

World Business Chicago's Chicago 2050 Plan outlines a bold vision for a region that thrives on sustainable growth, inclusive opportunity, and global competitiveness. But realizing that vision depends on one critical factor: innovation. In this episode of Beyond the Loop, Phil Clement, President & CEO of World Business Chicago and Luke Tanen, President and CEO of Chicago Innovation, explore the long-term strategy on Chicago's future. The discussion reframes regional planning through the lens of technological advancement, data-enabled decision-making, and cross-sector collaboration. From smart mobility systems and AI-informed planning to climate-tech infrastructure and next-generation workforce development. The conversation explores how innovation will be embedded into every layer of implementation into this bold plan for our city. The episode will also examine how public institutions, private enterprise, and civic organizations can co-create scalable solutions that position the region as a leader in 21st-century urban innovation. Subscribe on Apple , Spotify , YouTube , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thank you to our podcast sponsor, Shure Incorporated . For nearly 100 years, Shure Incorporated has developed best-in-class audio products that provide high-quality performance, reliability and value. Headquartered in Niles, Illinois, our history of innovation and expertise in acoustics, wireless technology, and more enables us to deliver seamless, transparent audio experiences to a global audience. Our diverse product line includes world-class wired and wireless microphones, networked audio systems and signal processors, conferencing and discussion systems, software, a loudspeaker, and award-winning earphones and headphones. Find Shure on: Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

May 12, 202645 min

Episode 080 – Workplace Culture with Jason Zimmerman, Founder, 3Fold Collective

Jason Zimmerman, Founder of 3Fold Collective, joins The Executives' Exchange for a candid conversation on what it truly takes to drive meaningful organizational change. Drawing on more than two decades of experience spanning behavioral economics, corporate strategy, and large-scale transformation, Jason shares how leaders can align people, systems, and purpose to unlock lasting impact. Hosted by Dorri McWhorter, this episode explores the intersection of research and execution — from the innovations that reshaped modern retirement programs to the cultural and operational challenges organizations face during periods of transformation. Jason also reflects on the philosophy behind 3Fold Collective: when individuals and systems are aligned, 1+1=3. Subscribe on Apple , Spotify , YouTube , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thank you to our podcast sponsor, Shure Incorporated . For nearly 100 years, Shure Incorporated has developed best-in-class audio products that provide high-quality performance, reliability and value. Headquartered in Niles, Illinois, our history of innovation and expertise in acoustics, wireless technology, and more enables us to deliver seamless, transparent audio experiences to a global audience. Our diverse product line includes world-class wired and wireless microphones, networked audio systems and signal processors, conferencing and discussion systems, software, a loudspeaker, and award-winning earphones and headphones. Find Shure on: Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

August 13, 202550 min

Episode 079 – Suzy Welch, Best-Selling Author, Tech Entrepreneur, & Professor

Suzy Welch—best-selling author, professor, and tech entrepreneur—joins The Executives' Exchange for a candid conversation with guest host Kristen Prinz. This isn't just about her latest book, Becoming You: The Proven Method for Crafting Your Authentic Life and Career —it's about rewriting the rules of success. Drawing from her hit NYU course, Suzy breaks down a framework for finding your core values, leading with purpose, and building a career that actually fits the life you want. No buzzwords. No one-size-fits-all formulas. Just the clarity and tools you need to shape your next chapter—on your terms. This conversation was recorded in front of a live audience in May 2025. 00:00 – Intro 00:55 – Inspiration Behind the Book 04:26 – Suzy's Becoming You Experience 08:26 – Defining the Four Horsemen 12:50 – The Values Test & Learning Your Values 21:05 – Methodology Applied Across All Age Groups 2 7:20 – Go Where Your Characteristics Overl ap 30:00 – The Worthiness of Values 33:51 – Do Values Change Over Time? 36:16 – Recognizing Attributes & Identifying Aptitudes 46: 40 – Economically Viable Interests 50 : 25 – Outro Episode Link: Suzy Welch | Becoming You Guest H ost: Kristen Prinz , Founding & Managing Partner, The Prinz Law Firm Subscribe on Apple , Spotify , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thank you to our podcast sponsor, Shure Incorporated . For nearly 100 years, Shure Incorporated has developed best-in-class audio products that provide high-quality performance, reliability and value. Headquartered in Niles, Illinois, our history of innovation and expertise in acoustics, wireless technology, and more enables us to deliver seamless, transparent audio experiences to a global audience. Our diverse product line includes world-class wired and wireless microphones, networked audio systems and signal processors, conferencing and discussion systems, software, a loudspeaker, and award-winning earphones and headphones. Find Shure on: Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

July 8, 202557 min

Episode 078 – Katrina Markoff, Founder, Violet Flames Chocolate

On this episode of the Executives' Exchange, Katrina Markoff, Founder of Violet Flame Chocolate, joins Julie Smolansky, CEO of Lifeway Foods and Exec Club Board Member, to discuss her nearly three decades of innovation in the world of gourmet chocolate and what it means to lead with creativity and purpose. 00:00 – Intro 02:30 – Katrina's Childhood and Background 06:19 – Why Chocolate? 11:32 – Navigating Challenges 13:12 – Violet Flame 17:45 – Creating a Balanced Company Culture 23:30 – What Makes Chicago Special 30:35 – Balancing Taking Risks 37:45 – Using Mothership as a Business Tool 43:25 – Making Things Purposeful 46:20 – Leaving a Legacy 50:15 – The Future of AI in Different Spaces 56:25 – Outro Episode Link: Violet Flames Chocolate Guest H ost: Julie Smolyansky, President & Chief Executive Officer, Lifeway Foods Producer: Eva Penar, Chief Content & Communications Officer, The Executives' Club of Chicago Subscribe on Apple , Spotify , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thank you to our podcast sponsor, Shure Incorporated . For nearly 100 years, Shure Incorporated has developed best-in-class audio products that provide high-quality performance, reliability and value. Headquartered in Niles, Illinois, our history of innovation and expertise in acoustics, wireless technology, and more enables us to deliver seamless, transparent audio experiences to a global audience. Our diverse product line includes world-class wired and wireless microphones, networked audio systems and signal processors, conferencing and discussion systems, software, a loudspeaker, and award-winning earphones and headphones. Find Shure on: Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

June 11, 202551 min

Episode 077 – Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, Author and Executive Coach

In this episode of the Executives' Exchange, world-renowned executive coach and bestselling author, Marshall Goldsmith, joins Harry Kraemer of Northwestern University to share timeless advice on career and life success. Learn proven strategies that can help participants successfully balance being present, while simultaneously planning for your future in a world that is ever changing . This conversation was recorded in front of a live audience in February 2025 . 00:00 – Intro 01:50 – Key to Being a Grea t Coach 6:35 – Common Challenges when Changing Behaviors 8:31 – Identifying and Overcoming Blind Spot s 9:10 – The Most Effective Methodology 12:50 – Role of Feedback, or Feed "Forward" 13:51 – Evolving Landscape of Leadership 18:27 – Coping with Hard Decisions 21:00 – Ac hievement vs. Happiness 24:00 – The Power of Mentors hip 28:10 – AI Platform 31:00 – Daily Practices for Effective Leadership 33:50 – What Future Leaders Need to Know 36:23 – Guiding Principles and Philosophies 40:35 – The Secret to Staying Inspired 44:44 – Do the Work or Let it Go 48:35 – Final Bits of Advice 50:48 – Outro Episode Link: Marshall Goldsmith Guest H ost: Harry M. Kraemer, Clinical Professor of Management & Organizations, Northwestern University Producer: Eva Penar, Chief Content & Communications Officer, The Executives' Club of Chicago Subscribe on Apple , Spotify , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thank you to our podcast sponsor, Shure Incorporated . For nearly 100 years, Shure Incorporated has developed best-in-class audio products that provide high-quality performance, reliability and value. Headquartered in Niles, Illinois, our history of innovation and expertise in acoustics, wireless technology, and more enables us to deliver seamless, transparent audio experiences to a global audience. Our diverse product line includes world-class wired and wireless microphones, networked audio systems and signal processors, conferencing and discussion systems, software, a loudspeaker, and award-winning earphones and headphones. Find Shure on: Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram