Innovator Story: How One Entrepreneur Turned an Everyday Problem into a Business Opportunity

Ask This Expert: How Should Business Leaders Be Using AI Right Now?

Artificial Intelligence is everywhere—but most business leaders are still asking the same question: how do you move from experimenting with AI to actually using it as a business advantage?  In this episode of The CLICK Podcast's Ask this Expert series, Jessica Linder Gallo sits down with Stacy Brooks, CEO of SKB Cyber, and Keith Brooks, COO of SKB Cyber, to explore how leaders can use tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and AI-powered automation to improve productivity, strengthen customer engagement, and make better business decisions.  Together, they discuss practical ways to integrate AI into daily workflows, how to use AI to analyze customer feedback and identify trends, and why leaders should start learning these tools now rather than waiting for the technology to mature.  The conversation also tackles one of the most important—and often overlooked—aspects of AI adoption: security. Stacy and Keith share insights on protecting sensitive information, understanding how AI platforms use your data, avoiding common mistakes, and creating guardrails that allow organizations to innovate responsibly.  In this episode, you'll learn:  * How business leaders can use ChatGPT and AI beyond simple content creation  * Practical ways AI can improve efficiency and automate repetitive tasks  * How AI can enhance customer engagement and uncover valuable insights  * The differences between popular AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini, and more  * Common security, privacy, and data-sharing risks leaders need to understand  * Tips for writing better prompts and getting more useful results from AI  Whether you're AI-curious or already experimenting with these tools, this episode offers practical advice to help you work smarter while keeping the human element at the center of your business.  Because the future isn't about AI replacing people—it's about people who know how to use AI creating more value than ever before.    ----------------------  The CLICK Podcast homepage 👉 https://theclickpodcast.podbean.com/ [https://theclickpodcast.podbean.com/]  Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce 👉 https://www.peoriachamber.org/ [https://www.peoriachamber.org/]  SKB Cyber Homepage 👉  https://www.skbcyber.com/ [https://www.skbcyber.com/]   Have ideas for future episodes or experts we should feature? Reach out to us at info@peoriachamber.org [info@peoriachamber.org].     The CLICK Podcast is a production of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce.

Innovator Story: How One Entrepreneur Turned an Everyday Problem into a Business Opportunity

What if your next big business idea isn’t about inventing something new—but simply paying attention?  In this episode of The CLICK Podcast, host Jessica Linder Gallo sits down with entrepreneur Chase Brower to unpack a powerful innovation story rooted in observation. From owning franchise businesses like Pancheros and Scooter’s Coffee to launching a brand-new concept, Chase shares how he’s built a career by spotting gaps others overlook.  At the center of this conversation is SWYCH Box, a simple but smart solution designed for electric vehicle charging stations. When drivers are sitting still for 20–30 minutes, why not make that time useful? That single question turned into a scalable business idea focused on convenience, efficiency, and user experience.  Together, Jessica and Chase explore what it really takes to move from operator to innovator, including how to validate an idea, build something from scratch, and stay grounded through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.  In this episode, you’ll learn:  * How to identify real market gaps (and avoid chasing bad ideas)   * Why innovation is often about improving experience, not inventing new products   * The process of turning a rough idea into a tangible business concept   * Lessons from building in the EV charging and convenience space   * Why Peoria is an unexpected but powerful place for entrepreneurs   * The reality behind entrepreneurship and why it’s both harder and more rewarding than people think   If you’re an entrepreneur, innovator, or someone who’s ever thought, “There has to be a better way to do this,” this episode will challenge how you see opportunity.  Because sometimes the best ideas aren’t created—they’re noticed.  ----------------------  The CLICK Podcast homepage 👉 https://theclickpodcast.podbean.com/ [https://theclickpodcast.podbean.com/]  Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce 👉 https://www.peoriachamber.org/ [https://www.peoriachamber.org/]  SWYCH Box Homepage 👉  https://www.swych-box.com/ [https://www.swych-box.com/]   Have ideas for future episodes or experts we should feature? Reach out to us at info@peoriachamber.org [info@peoriachamber.org].     The CLICK Podcast is a production of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce in Peoria, IL.

Ask This Expert: What’s in the Modern Marketer’s Toolbox That Actually Works?

In this episode of The CLICK Podcast, we’re breaking down modern marketing strategy for leaders. We’ll talk about what works, what doesn’t, and how to stop wasting time on tactics that don’t drive results.  Host Jessica Linder Gallo is joined by Savana Nelson, VP of Marketing and Member Relations at the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, to explore how marketing has evolved and what today’s leaders need to understand to stay relevant.  With consumers seeing over 10,000 marketing messages a day, the old playbook of impressions and volume no longer works. This conversation dives into the shift toward storytelling, brand strategy, audience engagement, data-driven marketing, and how even small teams can create meaningful impact.  You’ll learn:  * Why “more marketing is not better marketing” (and what to do instead)   * How to build a modern marketing toolbox using tools like automation, email marketing, Canva, and AI   * The role of brand identity in shaping first impressions and trust   * How to use data and analytics to focus on real engagement, not vanity metrics   * Why direct outreach and human connection outperform mass messaging   * How leaders can better empower marketing teams and get stronger results   Whether you’re a business owner, executive, entrepreneur, or marketing professional, this episode will help you rethink your approach to marketing, leadership, and growth strategy.  Because great marketing isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing what actually works.  --------  The CLICK Podcast homepage 👉 https://theclickpodcast.podbean.com/ [https://theclickpodcast.podbean.com/]  Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce 👉 https://www.peoriachamber.org/ [https://www.peoriachamber.org/]    Have ideas for future episodes or experts we should feature? Reach out to us at info@peoriachamber.org [info@peoriachamber.org].     The CLICK Podcast is a production of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce.

Leading with Courage: A Leadership Lounge Conversation with Denise Tallcott

What separates good leaders from great ones? Often, it’s the willingness to do hard things, even when they’re uncomfortable.  In this episode of The CLICK Podcast, host Jessica Linder Gallo sits down with broadcaster, leadership coach, and communication expert Denise Tallcott for a candid conversation on what it truly means to lead with courage, clarity, and intention.  With over 18 years of experience in broadcasting and leadership development, Denise shares how her own journey—both the good and the not-so-great leadership experiences—shaped her approach to leading people first, not just managing performance.   Together, Jessica and Denise dive into:  * Why leadership is influence—and how you choose to use it matters   * The power of vulnerability and authenticity in building trust   * How to navigate hard conversations and lead through conflict   * The importance of alignment between your values and your work   * Practical ways to build confidence and resilience as a leader   * Why investing in your people as people changes everything   Denise also shares a preview of her message, “You Can Do Hard Things,” including simple but powerful strategies to build confidence.  One standout reminder from this conversation: “It’s not that great leaders are fearless—it’s that they’re willing to do things others won’t.”  Whether you’re leading a team, growing a business, or stepping into your next level of leadership, this episode will push you to think differently and act more intentionally.  --------  The CLICK Podcast homepage 👉 https://theclickpodcast.podbean.com/ [https://theclickpodcast.podbean.com/]  Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce 👉 https://www.peoriachamber.org/ [https://www.peoriachamber.org/]  Denise Tallcott Leadership & Public Speaking homepage 👉  https://www.denisetallcottleadership.com/ [https://www.denisetallcottleadership.com/]   Working Moms Redefined Podcast 👉 https://www.workingmomsredefined.com/ [https://www.workingmomsredefined.com/]     Have ideas for future episodes or experts we should feature? Reach out to us at info@peoriachamber.org [info@peoriachamber.org].     The CLICK Podcast is a production of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce.

Welcome to The CLICK Podcast: Purpose, Vision, and What to Expect in Season 1

In the debut episode of The CLICK Podcast, host Jessica Linder Gallo, President & CEO of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, sits down with Laura Gleissner, Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, to introduce listeners to the why behind the podcast—and what’s coming in Season 1.  Together, Jessica and Laura share the vision for creating The CLICK: a space where Career, Leadership, Innovation, Community, and Knowledge come together to spark meaningful conversations and practical insights for business professionals across the Greater Peoria region.  Listeners will get a preview of:  * Why the Chamber launched a podcast now  * What makes The CLICK different from traditional Chamber communications  * Highlights and sneak peeks from upcoming Season 1 interviews  * How the podcast connects to the Chamber’s mission and the regional business community  * Ways listeners can engage, share feedback, and get involved  Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, organizational leader, or emerging professional, this episode sets the foundation for the conversations, ideas, and connections that will define The CLICK.  You’re in the place where it all clicks.  --------  The CLICK Podcast homepage 👉 https://theclickpodcast.podbean.com/ [https://theclickpodcast.podbean.com/]  Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce 👉 https://www.peoriachamber.org/ [https://www.peoriachamber.org/]    Have ideas for future episodes or experts we should feature? Reach out to us at info@peoriachamber.org [info@peoriachamber.org].     The CLICK Podcast is a production of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce.