September 2025 Newsletter

It’s September and we are talking about leadership! 

NAWBO Chicago offers a wealth of resources and opportunities to help women business owners grow and thrive as leaders. 

Use your membership to leverage NAWBO for leadership development by attending events with networking opportunities; accessing resources and tools via the NAWBO Institute on National’s website; build relationships with other members and gain a community that understands the unique challenges and opportunities faced by women business owners. 

September Member Spotlight - Leadership

In what ways has your leadership style evolved as your business has grown, and what have been the key lessons you've learned about leading a team effectively while maintaining your unique vision?

I’ve had the benefit of leading in both large corporate environments and as a small business owner. That balance has shaped how I think about scaling growth and leadership. Over time, my style has evolved from being very hands-on and execution-focused to building systems and frameworks that allow others to thrive. Early on, I drove everything: strategy, delivery and even execution details. But as the work grows in complexity, you realize success isn’t about what you personally produce. It’s about how well you create clarity, alignment and accountability so others can execute effectively.

Kate Gory

President

Individual Tax Service

When I started Creole Solutions, I led with sheer grit, often carrying everything on my own shoulders. As an immigrant woman entrepreneur, I felt I had to prove I could build something meaningful from the ground up. A few years ago, through the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program, I learned the importance of stepping back. That was a turning point — I began building systems, putting the right structures in place, and creating room for my team to grow with me.

Marleen Julien

Founder and Chief Creolist

Creole Solutions

As my business has grown, so has my leadership style—especially through adversity. I’ve learned that the most transformative leadership moments often arise during challenging times. Rather than shielding my team from hardship, I lean into it with them. I share my vulnerabilities openly, which fosters trust and encourages them to grow beyond their roles. This transparency removes fear and guilt, creating space for bold leadership development. We invest in personal and professional growth, and I encourage my team to stretch themselves. Leadership isn’t just about guiding others—it’s about growing together.

Angie Noll

Founder

Reconciled Solutions

“Leadership is a role model mindset anchored in systems, people, and collective impact.” As my business has grown, my leadership style has evolved from being deeply hands-on to becoming more visionary, centered on creating systems that sustain growth and empower others. I now see leadership as a “role model mindset”—recognizing that my actions, character, and consistency set the tone for my team and the communities we serve. Beyond systems, I’ve learned (still learning) that leadership is ultimately about people and relationships.

Isoken Ogbomo, MSN, FNP-C CCM 

CEO

Complete Health Service

Save The Date: Join Us At Tiny Tapp & Bring A Friend

NAWBO Chicago is thrilled to announce a series of Pop Up events taking place throughout the year! Save the date for the first Pop Up on Tuesday, September 30 after work at Tiny Tapp, 55 W. Riverwalk in Chicago.

The NAWBO Fall Membership Drive is underway and this is a perfect opportunity to bring a friend and introduce them to the organization!

Mark your calendar now and watch for ticket sales and more details coming soon! And check out the chapter event calendar for other Pop Up save the dates. These in-person events are a great opportunity to network and connect!

Multiple Speaking Opportunities Available To Premier Members

Are you a NAWBO Chicago member seeking speaking opportunities?

Speaking opportunities at both the local and national level offer a powerful way to expand your brand and establish yourself as a leader in your industry. Ready to share your expertise and inspire others? Check out these options:

• Chicago speaking opportunities include the chapter Connects and monthly City of Chicago presentations. If you are interested in being added to the list of local speakers, email lora@nawbochicago.org.

• National speaking opportunities include the NAWBO On The Go Podcast. Fill out this application to be included on National's speaker list.

New Mastermind Groups Are Forming: In-Person And Virtual

Two new NAWBO Chicago Mastermind groups are starting to take shape. Now is your opportunity to take advantage of this free benefit available to premier members!

Interested? Below are the meeting details for the two new groups.

Email Melissa Lagowski at melissa@nawbochicago.org for more information.

• The second Tuesday of each month from 12:00 - 2:00 pm on Zoom. Participants must make $750,000 in annual revenue for this group.

• The third Tuesday of each month from 6:00 - 8:00 pm. This is an in-person group and it will meet at rotating locations (restaurants, etc.) on the north side of Chicago.

Hear From NAWBO Wisconsin Member At Virtual Connections

Monthly Virtual Connections

September 16 at 11:00 am CT

NAWBO National's September Monthly Virtual Connections will feature chapter member Ann Hooper of Ann Hooper Consulting in Kenosha, WI. Tune in for an insightful conversation.

Bring your goals and ideas too. Refine and practice how you talk about your business.

NAWBO Virtual Member Credits Chicago Chapter For Support

Hear from NAWBO virtual member Denise Dahl, of Epiphany Planning & Development, on how she was introduced to NAWBO!

The NAWBO Chicago annual conference was the space Denise felt she was surrounded by other women business owners who understood her journey and challenges. Check out her interview below.

Check Out This US Chamber Guide On New Tax Reforms

The recently enacted “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” includes substantial tax reforms to support the growth of small businesses.

Small business owners can take advantage of these tax breaks starting now for expenses dating back to January 20, 2025.

This downloadable guide from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce outlines the most impactful provisions of the law, including permanent deductions, enhanced credits and expanded eligibility criteria, to help business owners navigate the changes and optimize their tax strategies. 

Join Today And Save $75! The Fall Membership Drive Is Here!

Join us this season and invest in your success! NAWBO Chicago is hosting its annual Fall Membership Drive. Right now, when you become a new member, you'll get $100 off the initiation fee.

NAWBO is the only organization dedicated to helping women entrepreneurs reach new heights. Our network is filled with passionate, like-minded women business owners who understand the challenges and triumphs you face every day. We provide the resources, support and community you need to thrive. With your membership, you'll gain:

• Access to networking events to build relationships and grow your business.
• Professional development to hone your skills and stay ahead of the curve.
• Advocacy at the local and national levels to champion for your interests.
• A powerful community of women who lift each other up.

This is more than a membership - it's an investment in yourself and your business. Don't miss this chance to level up. Join NAWBO Chicago today!

The 2026 Leadership Academy Is Headed To Puerto Rico!

The NAWBO Leadership Academy this January in Puerto Rico is more than an event—it’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity to connect, collaborate and cultivate lasting relationships with powerhouse women who are building thriving businesses, leading their NAWBO chapters with vision and purpose and shaping the future of entrepreneurship.

Reserve your spot today for a day-and-a-half to expand your network, elevate your leadership, amplify your impact—and have a whole lot of fun in an unforgettable (and warm) setting this winter. This is where growth-minded women leaders come to be inspired, supported and empowered for what’s next.

NAWBO Chicago Newsletter Submissions

NAWBO Chicago newsletters are published monthly. Email October submissions to the newsletter editor by September 19, 2025.