DuPage Business Beat

For the first time in 27 years, the Global Botanic Gardens Congress is returning to North America—and it's coming right here to Chicagoland.Scheduled for summer 2027, the “Olympics of Conservation” brings together researchers and delegates from around the world to share, discuss, and amplify the work of botanic gardens. As communities face ecological challenges ranging from invasive species to climate change, the 2027 Congress will focus on restoring ecosystems.Two Chicagoland institutions have been selected to host: The Morton Arboretum and the Chicago Botanic Garden. On today's podcast, host Greg Bedalov joins two leaders of these organizations to talk about the Congress, conservation, and how Chicagoland businesses can support the region's natural ecosystem.Special GuestsMurphy Westwood, Vice President of Science and Conservation | The Morton ArboretumKay Havens, Chief Scientist and Negaunee Vice President of Science | Chicago Botanic GardenDive DeeperResources: Want to learn how your business can make a difference? Choose DuPage has partnered with the DuPage County Environmental Division to connect local business leaders to resources that promote sustainable practices. Find incentives, guidelines, and other resources here. Education: Learn how to incorporate eco-friendly practices into your business' green space during our free webinar on August 12th, 2025.Hosted by Jim Kleinwachter, program director at The Conversation Foundation, this seminar will explore how you can reduce maintenance costs, enhance your site's visual appeal, and demonstrate your commitment to environmental stewardship. Learn more and sign up here.To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

It's no secret that we live in a politically polarized world. But there's one thing that most business leaders agree on: When an economy grows and thrives, so do the people, businesses, and communities within it.On this episode, host Greg Bedalov joins two leaders from the Illinois Chamber of Commerce to discuss the big picture of the state's economy—plus the details that make a difference.Tune in to get their perspectives on which sectors have the most growth potential, what small-business owners really want, and how the Chamber is building bridges across the political aisle. Special GuestsLou Sandoval, President and CEO | Illinois Chamber of CommerceDan Wagner, Chairman of the Board | Illinois Chamber of CommerceDive DeeperTo learn more about the Illinois Chamber, start here.In this episode, we explore some of the factors that drive economic growth, including the workforce. As AI and other technologies transform entire industries, how will the workforce of today meet the demands of tomorrow? Tune into our recent episode of the Beat to hear what educators have to say.Speaking of AI, one of Chicagoland's hottest sectors is the infrastructure that powers transformative tech: data centers. Read our blog to learn how communities in DuPage County are finding creative solutions to attract and support the industry.As always, we'd like to thank the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

Across the United States, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and other issues related to mental health are on the rise. While these issues affect individuals directly, they also impact entire communities—and solving them requires community-wide solutions.On this episode, host Greg Bedalov joins a pair of special guests to discuss the DuPage County Health Department's new Crisis Recovery Center, a facility that will help individuals and families get the care they need, when they need it—while reducing the burden on local emergency rooms and law enforcement.Special GuestsThe Hon. Deborah Conroy, Chair of the DuPage County BoardLori Carnahan, Deputy Director of Behavioral Health, DuPage County Health DepartmentDive DeeperTo learn more about the Crisis Recovery Center and the services provided, start here.On a previous episode, we discussed mental health in the workplace—why it matters, what factors can affect it, and how organizations can create healthier environments. Listen here.Healthy communities are built on an intentional infrastructure of healthcare, education, and jobs, as well as access to healthy foods and affordable housing. Learn why DuPage County has been ranked the #1 Healthiest County in Illinois for four years running. As always, we'd like to thank the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

We live in a world of continuous change. For educators, that creates an imposing challenge: How do you prepare the next generation for their careers when you don't necessarily know what those careers will be?On this episode, host Greg Bedalov joins a panel of local higher education experts to explore how they're teaching students to be resilient, flexible, and ready for whatever's next.Special GuestsDr. Christopher White, Dean of the College of Aviation, Science and Technology at Lewis UniversityPhil Hardy, PhD, the Director of Innovation & Strategic Partnerships at Benedictine UniversityDr. Susana Rivera-Mills, President of Aurora UniversityDive DeeperEarlier in 2025, Greg spoke to a pair of talent placement experts on the workforce gap and the challenges that Chicagoland businesses are facing. Get their take.In addition to attracting the right talent, many businesses are struggling to adapt to a new generation of workers. Learn how employers are prioritizing mental health to create environments that foster healthy, productive employees on Episode 11 of the Beat. In DuPage County, we have more than a strong workforce—we have a seamless pipeline of educational institutions, workforce placement programs, and engaged businesses. This pipeline helps develop next-gen talent and place the right people in the most high-demand jobs. Learn more.As always, we'd like to thank the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

From urgent housing needs to the rapid growth of e-commerce, communities everywhere are under tremendous pressure to rethink and reuse existing spaces. On this episode, host Greg Bedalov sits down with two local leaders to discuss how their communities are adapting.Special GuestsSean Gascoigne, Director of Community and Economic Development at the Village of BloomingdaleStaci Springer, AICP, Community Development Director at the City of Wood DaleDive DeeperIn this episode, Sean and Staci discuss the growth of data centers in Chicagoland. For a deeper dive on how DuPage communities are adapting to and benefiting from data center investment, read our blog. One of the strengths of DuPage County is our economic diversity. Communities like Wood Dale and Bloomingdale aren't dependent on a single industry, which gives them more resiliency. Learn more about the region's economic diversity and other key advantages here.Chicagoland was recently named the #1 U.S. metro for corporate relocation for the 12th consecutive year; that was, in large part, due to the creativity and business-friendly mindset of community leaders like Sean and Staci. To learn more about Chicagoland's #1 ranking, start here.As always, we'd like to thank the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

Host Greg Bedalov joins a pair of talent placement experts to break down Chicagoland's approach to one of America's toughest challenges: the workforce.How can we close the gap between good talent and great job opportunities? How are people with disabilities making a difference at local businesses? And how is recent legislation impacting local workforce organizations like workNet DuPage and Parents Alliance?Find out on this episode of the DuPage Business Beat.Special GuestsLisa Schvach, Executive Director of the workNet DuPage Career CenterKristen Sheffield, Executive Director of Parents Alliance Employment ProjectDive DeeperDuPage County is home to a highly educated and diversely skilled workforce over 640,000-strong. Learn more about our talent pipeline and key industries here.If you want to attract good talent, it helps to create a great work environment. Check out DuPage County's “Smartest Workplaces: 2024” to learn how local employers are creating excellent workplaces to attract and retain workers.And finally: Creating a great workplace is about more than cool amenities and well-designed spaces; it's also about helping your employees stay healthy and get the support they need. To learn more, listen to last year's episode: “Wellness that Works: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace”.A special thanks to the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

Host Greg Bedalov joins two guests from Illinois' economic development organization, Intersect Illinois, to discuss our biggest challenges and opportunities – and how their organization is addressing them now.Special GuestsChristy George, President and CEO, Intersect IllinoisJohn Atkinson, Chairman, Intersect IllinoisDive DeeperIn this episode, Greg and his guests discuss how Illinois has emerged as a leader in quantum computing. Check out Chicago's new Quantum Park here.They also mention Lion Electric, a leading EV producer that's supporting an ecosystem of area businesses, including Merkur. Learn more about the Merkur-Lion story here.And finally, if you want to explore the role of science and technology in Chicagoland's future, listen to our recent episode of the Beat: “A Conversation with a Congressman.”A special thanks to the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

Host Greg Bedalov sits down with Illinois Congressman Bill Foster, congress' only PhD physicist, for a sweeping conversation on AI, economics and more.Why do smarter algorithms often require more energy? How does public support drive private-sector innovation? Why are so many data centers popping up in Northern Illinois? And most importantly, how do all these pieces fit together?Find out on the Beat.Special GuestCongressman Bill Foster, representative of the 11th Congressional District of IllinoisDive DeeperIn this episode, we talk about what makes DuPage County and the Chicagoland region so attractive to data centers and other tech investments. Here's what makes us different. Speaking of data centers, here's the story of a recent groundbreaking on a new $350M facility in Aurora, IL.Another big topic here is quantum computing. Read about Chicago's new Quantum Park here and learn how investments like this are positioning the regional economy for the future.

Between high interest rates, changing work habits, and the upcoming election, there are a lot of factors affecting office and industrial markets. So we figured it was time to check back in with two of our previous podcast guests, who keep a close watch on all things real estate.In our latest episode, host Greg Bedalov joins Jim Adler and Mark Moran, Executive Vice Presidents of the Chicago-based brokerage firm NAI Hiffman, for an update on office and industrial development in Chicagoland.How are high interest rates affecting the industrial market, and what will happen when those rates begin to drop? How are Chicago's suburbs getting creative and reimagining large office spaces post-pandemic? How are trends like hybrid work changing the game?We cover all these topics and more on the latest Beat. A special thanks to the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

Employers are doing everything they can to attract and retain good workers. But the biggest factor in an employee's success is also one of the hardest to manage: mental health.In our latest episode, host Greg Bedalov joins Dr. Lindsey Harrington and Gina Sharp of Endeavor Health Linden Oaks Hospital to talk about mental health in the modern workplace.Why is it so important? What's changed in recent years? How do new technologies and ways of working impact our health? And, most importantly, how can employers create an environment that puts employee wellness first?To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

For 160 years, customers across Northern Illinois have depended on one company for natural gas: Nicor. Now, the way we think about energy is evolving, and Nicor is evolving with it.In today's episode, host Greg Bedalov joins Nicor Gas VP Meena Byers for a deep dive into the future of energy. From hydrogen molecules to net-zero housing, their conversation goes to some unexpected places, while exploring the big question: What's the role of Nicor, and the natural gas industry, in tomorrow's energy economy? Special Guest: Meena Byers, Vice President, Nicor GasA special thanks to the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

Let's talk talent. In this episode, host Greg Bedalov joins three experts to explore how Chicagoland manufacturers are developing and recruiting next-generation workers.How are manufacturers dealing with labor shortages? What can parents do to broaden their kids' career horizons? And how is one local marketing agency helping make the next generation of “Mavericks”?Find out on the Beat.Special Guests:Nancy O'Leary, Vice President of Custom DirectDanielle Kuglin Seago, Manager, Apprenticeship & Workforce Development for Project Hire-Ed, College of DuPageSusan Fischer, President of Premier Manufacturing CorporationDive Deeper:This episode features Custom Direct's Manufacturing Mavericks website, where students, parents and professionals can explore true stories about careers in the trades. Check it out.We also discuss Project Hire-Ed, a College of DuPage program that combines on-the-job training and instruction for apprentices. The program's “earn and learn” model helps students learn new skills while actively building their careers. Watch this video to learn more.When it comes to solving labor challenges, DuPage County has a unique tool: our seamless talent pipeline. This network of educational institutions, businesses and programs like Project Hire-Ed develops new talent and connects good workers with great careers. Learn more about our talent pipeline.A special thanks to the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

In January 2023, something unprecedented happened in Chicagoland. For the first time, seven Northeastern Illinois counties and the City of Chicago formed a partnership. Now, the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership (GCEP) is working to drive inclusive development, promote the region's collective assets, and foster collaboration like never before.In this episode, host Greg Bedalov, President & CEO of Choose DuPage, sits down with three local leaders to discuss how GCEP is impacting the region and changing the Chicagoland story.Special Guests:Robin Ficke, Senior Vice President, Research, World Business Chicago Kevin Considine, President & CEO, Lake County PartnersXochitl Flores, Bureau Chief, Economic Development for Cook CountyDive Deeper:To learn more about GCEP, “one of the largest advancements in our collective economic history,” start here.According to Site Selection Magazine, “The sense of regionalism exemplified by the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership will only reinforce the area's attractiveness.” Learn why the publication named Chicagoland the Top Metro for Corporate Investment for the 11th year running.In this episode, we discuss how GCEP is making an impact across Chicagoland. To learn more about the organization's inaugural year, read the 2023 GCEP Year in Review. A special thanks to the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

Most Chicagoland residents have heard of Argonne National Laboratory, the DuPage County-based U.S. Department of Energy facility. But what many don't realize is that Argonne is teaming up with manufacturers to develop groundbreaking projects at-scale, from EV batteries to carbon capture tech.For today's episode, host Greg Bedalov sits down with Chris Heckle, Director of the Materials Manufacturing Innovation Center, to discuss the transformative work happening at Argonne—and the collaboration behind it.Dive Deeper:Home to two National Laboratories (Argonne and Fermilab) as well as one of the nation's top science and engineering talent pools, DuPage County has a science-first ecosystem. Learn more.Argonne researchers recently won three R&D 100 Awards, AKA “the Oscars of Innovation.” Their award-winning work included an AI program designed to accelerate cancer research and a physics simulation for nuclear energy. Read the full story.If your business is interested in partnering with the Material Manufacturing Innovation Center at Argonne, reach out to Chris Heckle on LinkedIn.A special thanks to the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

In this follow-up to “People-nomics: Part 1”, we continue our exploration of all things labor. Host Greg Bedalov and a pair of economic experts break down a wide range of workforce-related issues, including the rising cost of housing, the aging population, and the endgame of recent inflation.Guests:Matt Finn, CFA, Chief Economist of 1834, a division of Old National BankGlenn Mazade, SVP, Commercial Business Banking of Old National BankHost: Greg Bedalov, President and CEO of Choose DuPageDive Deeper:Want to learn more about Chicagoland's workforce? Start with the Chicagoland Economic Partnership Asset Report, a free resource that offers insights into the region's key assets.In 2023, DuPage County and Greater Chicagoland dominated Newsweek's Greatest Workplaces list. See who made the list – and learn how these employers are reducing turnover rates while boosting employee productivity.Located in the thriving Chicagoland region, DuPage County has access to a world-class talent pool. Visit the Choose DuPage workforce page to learn how our seamless pipeline helps develop next-gen talent and connects businesses with the workers they need. A special thanks to the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

Today's businesses are struggling for one thing: talent. So how did we get here? What factors are influencing the labor market? And how can businesses adapt?The answer: It's complicated.In today's episode, host Greg Bedalov sits down with an economist and a banking expert to discuss all things “People-nomics” – the economics of labor.In the first half of their two-part conversation, Greg & co. discuss how automation and immigration are impacting the labor crisis, and what a shifting global supply chain could mean for our region.Stay tuned for “People-nomics, Part 2”, where we'll dive into the rising cost of housing—and discuss what the heck is happening with interest rates.Guests:Matt Finn, CFA, Chief Economist of 1834, a division of Old National BankGlenn Mazade, SVP, Commercial Business Banking of Old National BankHost: Greg Bedalov, President and CEO of Choose DuPageDive Deeper:Want to learn more about Chicagoland's workforce? Start with the Chicagoland Economic Partnership Asset Report, a free resource that offers in-depth data and insights on the region's key assets.Want better workers? Build better workplaces. Check out our Smartest Workplaces in DuPage: 2023 list to see how businesses in the Chicagoland suburbs are redefining workplace experiences.Located in the thriving Chicagoland region, DuPage County has access to a world-class talent pool. Visit the Choose DuPage workforce page to learn how our seamless pipeline helps develop next-gen talent and connects businesses with the workers they need. A special thanks to the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

When an experienced engineer looks at Chicagoland, what do they see?In this episode, host Greg Bedalov meets with the founder of a prominent engineering firm and professor at the University of Illinois Chicago. Their sweeping conversation covers topics ranging from workplace sustainability and water resources to the EV infrastructure, the engineering workforce, and civic engagement.Guest: Dr. Christopher Burke, founder and CEO of Christopher B. Burke EngineeringDive Deeper:Dr. Burke says that Chicagoland's unique water infrastructure gives the region an edge. To learn more about the area's assets and growth areas, check out the GCEP Asset Report.Greg and Dr. Burke discuss how Chicagoland's smart energy infrastructure helps the region attract data centers, semiconductor manufacturers, and other businesses. Learn more about the area's energy assets with the ComEd Fact Sheet.Feeling inspired to build a more sustainable business? Explore Choose DuPage's Sustainable DuPage program for helpful resources and guidance on responsible practices.A special thanks to the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

Turning a good idea into a real business can be daunting. Between marketing, finance and countless logistical hurdles, it's hard to know where to start—much less how to build a profitable, sustainable business.In today's episode, host Greg Bedalov introduces listeners to Innovation DuPage (ID), an incubator that provides valuable resources to local startups and small businesses.Greg is joined by two special guests: the Managing Director of ID and the CEO of a member business. Together, they break down how local entrepreneurs can access everything from workspaces and mentorship to “Owner-2-CEO” education programs, marketing support, networking events, and investment opportunities.Guests: Dan Facchini, Managing Director, Innovation DuPage; Larry Blackburn, Founder & CEO, DatatelligentHost: Greg Bedalov, President and CEO of Choose DuPageDive Deeper:Want to build a more environmentally friendly business? Choose DuPage's Green Business Assessments provide custom, no-cost sustainability evaluations.Whether you own a local business or are looking for vendors, check out Connect DuPage. This program connects minority, women, disabled, and veteran-owned businesses to helpful resources and new opportunities.Learn more about one of Chicagoland's hottest startup sectors: quantum technologies.A special thanks to the College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

Digital tools have made it possible to work from anywhere. But offices are still the best places for collaboration and critical for attracting talent. So how are employers adapting?In today's episode, host Greg Bedalov meets with two workplace experts to discuss how modern workplaces are evolving to attract talent, spur collaboration, and accommodate hybrid work styles. From creative design solutions to the rise of “phygital” workplaces, Greg and his guests cover the topics and trends that matter to Chicagoland businesses.Guests:Julie Hokin Watts, Director of Client Development at Corporate ConceptsJosh Tremblay IIDA, Principal, Corporate & Commercial Interiors Practice at Wight & CompanyHost: Greg Bedalov, President and CEO of Choose DuPageDive Deeper:For great workplace design right here in DuPage, check out our Smartest, Sleekest & Healthiest Workplaces of 2022.Beyond office design, the workplace experience is shaped by the community around it. Learn how Chicagoland's creative approach to economic development is evolving communities across the region.Explore the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership, an innovative collaboration between the City of Chicago and DuPage, Cook, Kane, Kendall, McHenry, Lake, and Will Counties.A special thanks to College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.

COVID changed the way millions of people work. Now, its aftershocks are pushing developers and communities across Chicagoland to think creatively about how they use their space. In this episode, host Greg Bedalov meets with two real estate industry experts to discuss the stories behind key trends in employment, industry sectors, the regional GDP, and more. From the ‘amenities race' to innovative mixed-use developments, Greg and his guests cover the topics that impact people and businesses across the region. Guests: Jim Adler and Mark Moran, Executive Vice Presidents of Chicago-based brokerage firm NAI HiffmanHost: Greg Bedalov, President and CEO of Choose DuPageDive Deeper:Learn more about the trends and key data points discussed in today's episode in the Choose DuPage Economic Indicators Report.Explore the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership, an innovative collaboration between the City of Chicago and DuPage, Cook, Kane, Kendall, McHenry, Lake, and Will Counties.A special thanks to College of DuPage for supporting today's episode. To keep up with what's happening in DuPage County and the Chicagoland region, follow Choose DuPage on social media or visit ChooseDuPage.com/Ready.