CEO Roundtable

Sarah Fraggis on Turning Struggles into a Multi-Million Dollar Skincare Brand

Sarah Fraggis doesn’t just run a skincare brand; she embodies resilience and reinvention. As the CEO of Filterless Era, Sarah has built an empire rooted in authenticity, empowering others, and embracing natural beauty. But her journey wasn’t a straight path to success—it was a winding road of self-discovery, risks, and relentless determination. Years ago, Sarah found herself in a place many can relate to: feeling trapped by circumstances and unsure of her potential. Married young and raising two children, she lived under someone else’s dreams while yearning to pursue her own. "I always wanted to go to art school, but life had other plans," Sarah shared. Yet, the same grit that made her dream big also drove her to find a way forward when the odds seemed stacked against her. The turning point came when Sarah hit what she describes as rock bottom. “When you’re at the lowest point, there’s nowhere to go but up,” she reflected. With little more than $300 and a deep conviction, she created the foundation for Filterless Era. Her mission? To empower women with tools and techniques that enhance natural beauty without invasive measures. Sarah’s entrepreneurial journey was anything but smooth. Along the way, she faced skepticism, financial losses, and even outright scams. She candidly recounted nearly losing her Instagram account to a phishing scheme and unknowingly sending money to a hacker. "I’ve been bamboozled, but every mistake has taught me something," she said. Instead of dwelling on setbacks, Sarah used them as fuel to propel herself forward. A key to her success has been staying true to her values. Filterless Era isn’t just a brand; it’s a movement. Sarah advocates for a “less is more” approach to beauty, emphasizing ancient, non-invasive practices like gua sha and lymphatic drainage. Her goal is simple yet profound: to help people feel beautiful as they are, without filters or facades. As her business flourished, so did her personal growth. Sarah learned the importance of separating herself from the brand and sharing her own story. "I want women to see that if I can do it, they can too," she said. Her story resonates because it’s raw and relatable. From managing a fast-growing Instagram account—now over 344,000 followers strong—to being featured in publications like Vogue and Cosmopolitan, Sarah has proven that success doesn’t require a traditional path. Beyond her professional achievements, Sarah’s heart remains firmly rooted in giving back. She recently partnered with a women’s shelter to provide skincare kits and workshops for women rebuilding their lives. “Confidence is the one thing that costs nothing but can take you anywhere,” she shared. By offering practical tools and sharing her own experiences, Sarah aims to spark that confidence in others. For those navigating their own paths, Sarah offers this advice: "Do your research, trust your instincts, and don’t let setbacks derail you. Use them as motivation to push forward." Her story is proof that even the hardest challenges can be stepping stones to something greater. Sarah Fraggis isn’t just building a brand—she’s creating a legacy of empowerment, resilience, and authenticity. And through Filterless Era, she’s reminding everyone that beauty is more than skin deep—it’s about embracing who you are and inspiring others to do the same.

Elliot Richardson on Empowering Small Businesses Through Advocacy

Elliot Richardson is no stranger to hard work or frustration with the status quo. As the president and co-founder of the Small Business Advocacy Council (SBAC), Elliot has turned years of frustration into a driving force for change, creating a platform that amplifies the voices of small business owners. Her journey into advocacy began not with an easy win, but with a hard lesson: running for office doesn’t always mean victory—but it does mean gaining invaluable insight into what’s broken and how to fix it. Growing up in Morton Grove and raising her family in Deerfield, Elliot’s roots in Illinois run deep. Her legal background gave her the tools to navigate the complexities of public policy, but it was her empathy for small business owners that propelled her to create the SBAC. Elliot recalls, “We heard a lot about small businesses being the backbone of the economy, but there was a lot of lip service and not much action. That had to change.” The SBAC began as a way to give small business owners a seat at the table, a voice in the room, and a chance to advocate for themselves. Elliot emphasizes that this wasn’t just about business owners but the larger “small business community”—employees, vendors, and local collaborators who depend on these enterprises. “If we can harness critical mass, we can really move the needle for small businesses,” she explains. Under Elliot’s leadership, the SBAC has delivered tangible results. From lowering LLC fees in Illinois to advocating for increased tax credits for hiring formerly incarcerated individuals, these wins represent more than policy shifts—they’re lifelines for entrepreneurs. Elliot beams when recounting the success of the SBAC’s initiative to stabilize health insurance premiums. “That’s not just good policy; it’s transformative for small business owners and their employees.” One of the most significant challenges Elliot identifies for entrepreneurs is undercapitalization. “You’ve got to get your financing in line and prepare for the unexpected,” she advises. Starting a business isn’t just about passion—it’s about timing, preparation, and having the right formula. Elliot insists that this preparation is critical: “You need that cushion to weather the surprises because there will be surprises.” Beyond advocacy, Elliot’s wisdom shines in her perspective on collaboration. “Small businesses don’t have the resources of big corporations, but that doesn’t mean we can’t work together. The key is finding ways to level the playing field while fostering collaboration.” Initiatives like reallocating state tax incentives to small businesses demonstrate her commitment to ensuring fairness without alienating larger companies. Elliot also stresses the importance of networking. For her, effective networking isn’t about attending every event—it’s about intentionality. “Ask your mentors where to go and make the most of your time. Join groups that align with your goals and values.” She adds that the SBAC fosters connections not just for advocacy but for business collaboration, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow together. For Elliot, advocacy isn’t just work—it’s a calling. She believes in showing up, whether it’s in Springfield or at a local chamber meeting. “Big corporations have their lobbyists, and now we’re there too. It’s about being present and making sure small businesses aren’t overlooked.” Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? “Get involved. Advocate for the changes you want to see. Barriers won’t fall unless we work together to remove them.” It’s this relentless focus on collaboration, fairness, and empowerment that makes Elliot Richardson a force for change in Illinois and beyond.

Nick DeGregorio and Maj. Gen. Alex Fink on Leading Through Transformation and Building Influence

Maj. Gen. Alex Fink’s career is a remarkable blend of military discipline and corporate strategy, offering insights few can match. As Chief of Army Enterprise Marketing in Chicago, he oversaw one of the Army’s most transformative initiatives—the “Be All You Can Be” campaign—while guiding a team to build the Army’s marketing capabilities into a modern, data-informed powerhouse. But his journey began far from Chicago, on a working farm in rural Missouri, where values like hard work and resilience were instilled early. Maj. Gen. Fink attended the University of Missouri, where he joined the ROTC, an experience that sparked his lifelong dedication to service. Over a distinguished military career that spans more than three decades, he’s held numerous high-stakes commands, from leading multinational units in Iraq and Afghanistan to overseeing vital logistical operations across the globe. This breadth of experience not only underscores his leadership but also shapes his approach to culture-building in organizations. For Alex, authentic leadership is essential. He emphasizes that leadership isn’t about mimicking others; it’s about being yourself and standing by the principles you believe in. “You can’t lead if you’re constantly trying to be someone else,” he explains. This idea—of authenticity as the cornerstone of effective leadership—has guided him throughout his military career and into his current role, where he helps mold the Army’s public image and outreach efforts. A Major General’s approach to leadership goes beyond strategies; it’s grounded in practical actions. Known for his accessibility, Alex breaks the mold of many corporate leaders by actively seeking out “collisions”—unplanned interactions that reveal valuable insights. “I seek out those small collisions,” he says, knowing that real connections with his team build trust and foster a culture where everyone feels valued. This open-door policy, uncommon in both the military and corporate worlds, has made him an accessible leader who values transparency and collaboration. One of Alex’s core principles is what he calls “don’t walk past a mistake.” He believes that leaders must address issues head-on and avoid letting small missteps fester. This mentality of accountability is not only vital internally but also essential for fostering relationships with external partners, who are crucial in driving an organization’s mission forward. Collaboration, both inside and outside the organization, is another key to Alex’s leadership style. He’s quick to acknowledge that large-scale change requires allies, and he sees partnerships as essential, whether it’s with peers, other divisions, or external organizations. “If you're driving cultural change, you need partners on board,” he says. This collaborative mindset was pivotal during his time in military commands and continues to be a cornerstone of his corporate leadership. As the architect of the Army’s “Be All You Can Be” campaign, Alex had to make difficult decisions. With a limited budget, he prioritized investments in data and technology, even at the expense of reducing media visibility temporarily. “It was a risk,” he admits, but one that ultimately allowed his team to create a more precise, targeted approach to marketing. This decision reflects his understanding that short-term sacrifices are sometimes necessary to achieve long-term success, an insight he draws from both military and corporate environments. The Major General’s military background has taught him invaluable lessons about resilience and perspective. He’s led through the high stakes of combat, an experience that has trained him to keep things in perspective and stay grounded under pressure. “In a year from now, is anyone going to remember? And if they do, will they care?” he asks himself. This mentality has become a compass in his career, helping him make decisions without letting minor setbacks derail his focus. Alex’s leadership is also rooted in compassion. He sees his team as more than just colleagues; he understands that personal and professional lives are intertwined. “People don’t bifurcate between personal and professional lives,” he shares. By taking time to understand what’s going on in his team members’ lives, he fosters an environment of support and loyalty. His approach to leadership is holistic, aiming to create an environment where people are empowered to succeed and feel part of a mission that matters. Maj. Gen. Alex Fink’s journey has been shaped by resilience, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. His story offers insights for anyone seeking to lead with purpose and build a culture of influence, whether on the battlefield or in the boardroom.

Rafael Romero’s Leap from Corporate America to Tech Innovator: A Story of Resilience

In a world where many aspire to the comforts of a stable corporate job, Rafael Romero’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Hailing from Venezuela, Rafael’s journey is not just about professional success; it’s a story of overcoming personal and cultural challenges while staying true to his vision. Rafael began his career in Venezuela, where he studied audit while balancing work and education. His hard work paid off when he received an unexpected opportunity: a transfer to Chicago through his firm’s global program. This chance to live out his dream of working in the United States was both exhilarating and daunting. “I couldn’t even believe it,” Rafael shared. “My dream was always to come to the States.” But the move wasn’t without its challenges. Transitioning from the warm climate of Venezuela to the frigid Chicago winters was just one of many adjustments. More significant was the cultural and linguistic shift. While Rafael had a solid foundation in English, the specialized terminology of accounting in a new environment was a hurdle. Despite these obstacles, Rafael’s determination to succeed never wavered. Rafael’s story is marked by perseverance. He often found himself working long hours, both at his job and on his studies, to ensure he could thrive in his new environment. He didn’t shy away from seeking help and surrounding himself with positive influences. “Surround yourself with good mentors,” he advises. “Surround yourself with positive people that you can learn from, but never give up.” After five years at Deloitte, Rafael made a bold move—leaving corporate America to co-found Falco Systems, a tech company specializing in facial recognition technology for international flights. The transition wasn’t easy, but for Rafael, it was the best decision he ever made. “It’s been the best three years of my life,” he reflects, describing his foray into the world of aviation and technology. Rafael’s leap into entrepreneurship wasn’t a complete departure from his past. He leveraged his extensive network and continued to work part-time as a consultant to pay the bills while building Falco Systems. This balancing act, though challenging, allowed him to fully commit to his new venture while maintaining financial stability. One of the most striking aspects of Rafael’s story is his approach to networking. He doesn’t just meet people; he connects the dots. This mindset has been crucial to the growth of Falco Systems, allowing him to bring in key partners and advisors who share his vision. “It’s about connecting, not just networking,” he emphasizes. Rafael’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those in similar positions, is simple yet profound: find the right partners and ensure your passion aligns with your work. “You need to find a problem and come up with the solution,” he says. And, perhaps most importantly, always have a client in mind when developing that solution. Falco Systems has made significant strides, recently becoming a member of 1871, the largest software incubator in Chicago. The company’s technology is already being implemented in airports, and Rafael is in talks with major players like T-Mobile and United Airlines to expand its applications. Rafael’s story is one of grit, determination, and the willingness to take calculated risks. It’s a reminder that success doesn’t come overnight, but with perseverance and the right connections, the possibilities are limitless. For those looking to follow Rafael’s journey, he invites you to connect with him on LinkedIn and follow Falco Systems as they continue to innovate and lead in the tech space.

Nick DeGregorio and Mark Denzler Discuss Manufacturing's Future

Mark Denzler, the President and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers Association, sat down with Nick DeGregorio on the CEO Roundtable to share his insights and experiences in the manufacturing sector. Mark's journey is a testament to the resilience and innovation that define American manufacturing. Mark's story begins in Decatur, Illinois, where his father worked in a manufacturing plant. This early exposure to the industry instilled in him a deep appreciation for the value of hard work and the vital role manufacturing plays in the economy. "Manufacturing put food on the table for me growing up," Mark shared. His passion for the industry is palpable, and his commitment to advancing manufacturing in Illinois is unwavering. One of the key topics Mark discussed is the changing landscape of education and career choices for young people. He pointed out that the number of high school graduates going directly to college is at an all-time low. "One in three high school graduates are no longer going to a four-year university," he noted. This shift is partly due to the growing awareness of alternative career paths in sectors like manufacturing, which offer lucrative opportunities without the burden of student debt. Mark emphasized the importance of showcasing the diverse opportunities within the manufacturing sector. "When you work in manufacturing, you can be in engineering, accounting, sales, or marketing," he explained. The industry is not just about working on the production floor; it encompasses a wide range of roles that are essential to its success. A significant challenge facing the manufacturing sector is workforce diversity. Mark highlighted the need to attract a more diverse pool of talent. "Too many people, quite frankly, look like me. They're older, they're white, and they're male," he said. To address this, the IMA has implemented initiatives to attract women, minorities, ex-offenders, and returning veterans to the industry. These efforts are crucial for the sector's growth and sustainability. Mark also spoke about the innovative ways the IMA is promoting manufacturing. One such initiative is Maker's Madness, a competition to showcase the coolest products made in Illinois. "We get about 300,000 votes and a couple hundred products," he shared. This event, along with the IMA's Manufacturing Hall of Fame, highlights the sector's contributions and celebrates its achievements. The conversation turned to the economic impact of manufacturing in Illinois. Mark proudly mentioned that manufacturing produces the single largest share of the state's economy, employing 650,000 individuals across nearly 4,000 companies. The sector's ripple effect on the economy is immense, as these jobs support other industries and services. Addressing the future, Mark expressed optimism about the role of quantum computing in manufacturing. He discussed the governor's budget allocation for a new quantum campus in the Chicagoland area, which promises to position Illinois as a leader in this cutting-edge technology. "Quantum is really going to be a game-changer for technology," he said, highlighting its potential to revolutionize various sectors, including cybersecurity and drug development. Throughout the interview, Mark's dedication to the manufacturing sector shone through. His passion for the industry, combined with his strategic vision, positions the IMA as a pivotal player in driving the sector's growth and innovation. As Mark aptly put it, "Manufacturing makes the world a better place every single day." For anyone considering a career in manufacturing, Mark's advice is simple yet profound: "Follow your passion." Whether you're a young person exploring career options or an entrepreneur looking to make a mark in the industry, the opportunities in manufacturing are vast and varied. Mark's insights and experiences offer valuable lessons for anyone interested in the manufacturing sector. His story is a powerful reminder of the industry's importance and its potential to shape the future of our economy and society.