Welcome back, Converge listeners, to another engaging episode. I'm your host, Jeff Williamson, and today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Jakob Knox, CEO of the Manteno Chamber of Commerce and Marketing Director for the Village of Manteno.

In this episode, Jakob takes us through his journey from a high school job in the Bourbonnais Township Park District to leading significant community initiatives. We delve into the essence of community leadership and the importance of collaborative efforts in making lasting impacts. Jacob shares his experiences from organizing events, particularly the beloved Manteno Oktoberfest, highlighting his lessons learned and the importance of relying on a dedicated team.

One of the key takeaways from our conversation is Jakob's insight on leadership: "When you give people that freedom of responsibility and ownership, they take it to the next level." His reflection on trusting his team and fostering a sense of community is truly inspirational.

Join us as we explore the intricacies of community engagement, the power of volunteerism, and the role of a Chamber of Commerce in nurturing local businesses. Jakob's story is a testament to the strength found in unity and collaboration.

So sit back, relax, and tune in as we uncover valuable leadership lessons and celebrate the essence of community with Jakob Knox. Don't forget to hit that subscribe button to stay updated with more inspiring stories of leadership and community impact.