Chicago State of Mind

The Wisdom of Transition with Dr. Sakira Jackson

What happens when success no longer feels aligned, leadership is evolving, or an organization is facing a season of change? On this episode of Chicago State of Mind, host Cheryl Mainor sits down with Dr. Sakira Jackson, known as the “Business Doctor,” to explore how individuals and organizations can recognize, preserve, and transfer wisdom before valuable knowledge, opportunity, and insight are lost. Drawing from her work as a strategist, leadership advisor, and creator of the MeshMind™ framework, Dr. Jackson shares how high-capacity thinkers can navigate complexity, how leaders can distinguish between being stuck and being in transition, and why capturing lived experience is one of the most important responsibilities of modern leadership.This thought-provoking conversation examines personal transformation, organizational resilience, succession planning, and the hidden value of the lessons we learn through leadership, adversity, and change. Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, emerging leader, or someone standing at a crossroads in life, this episode offers practical insights for navigating transition with clarity, purpose, and confidence. Chicago State of Mind is a production of Chicago News Weekly, CNW Studio and CaveRoom Entertainment, bringing you conversations with the people shaping Chicago's culture, business, and future.   To read more on Dr. Jackson, https://issuu.com/cnwmedia.com/docs/march_26_2026_edition [https://issuu.com/cnwmedia.com/docs/march_26_2026_edition]

Leadership, Fatherhood, and Global Impact with Robert Johnson

On this episode of Chicago State of Mind, Cheryl Mainor sits down with businessman, strategist, and global visionary Robert Johnson of The Solomon Group for a powerful conversation about leadership, legacy, and rebuilding community through intentional action. Robert Johnson shares the inspiration behind the Reclaim Father’s Day Weekend movement and why restoring the value of fatherhood and family engagement is critical to the future of Black communities. The conversation also explores the meaning and impact of the Global Peace Gesture, an initiative designed to spark unity, healing, and international collaboration during a time of growing division around the world. In addition, Johnson discusses the launch of the SG Africa Advisory Platform, an ambitious effort to connect African and African American business leaders, innovators, and institutions through economic partnerships, cultural exchange, and strategic development opportunities across the continent. This episode goes beyond business—it’s a conversation about purpose, responsibility, and building bridges between generations, communities, and nations. Chicago State of Mind is a product of Chicago News Weekly and the CNW Network and is produced by Caveroom Entertainment.

Tyrone Muhammed: Advocating for Ex Offenders, Legal hemp sales and running for US senate

Tyrone Muhammad, Founder of Ex-Cons for Community and Social Change, has dedicated his life to reducing recidivism and advocating for ex-offender reintegration. His programs in self-development and entrepreneurship have provided ex-cons with the tools to rebuild their lives. Tyrone’s work exemplifies the transformative power of second chances. On today’s episode, we discuss his life, his work, and ultimately his current run for the US Senate as an Independent candidate.

Madame President; Up close and personal with Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle

Today’s guest is one of the most influential political leaders in Illinois Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. She has led the nation’s second-largest county since 2010 and was the first woman elected to the office. President Preckwinkle joins us today to talk about her journey, her leadership philosophy, and the challenges and opportunities facing Cook County.

Dr. Dawn Hendricks Milhouse: A Higher Calling

In this episode of Chicago State of Mind, we sit down with Dr. Dawn Hendricks Milhouse for a more personal conversation beyond business. Known for multiple successful companies, Dr. Milhouse shares insight into her life, values, and the experiences that have shaped her journey as an entrepreneur. This conversation highlights the person behind the accomplishments offering a deeper look at who she is outside of her professional success.