5:30 PM – 7:30 PM CDT
Recap
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Ugly Talk: Connecting, Communicating and Collaborating With New Audiences
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5:30 PM – 7:30 PM CDT
About Event
Connecting with new audiences isn’t harder because there are fewer options. It’s harder because there are too many.
Business owners and professionals are juggling in-person events, digital platforms, social media, AI tools, and partnership opportunities, often without clarity on what actually drives connection, trust, or growth. Activity feels productive, but impact is inconsistent. Messages get diluted. Relationships stay shallow.
This Ugly Talk focuses on how connection, communication, and collaboration are really evolving and how to reach new audiences with intention, clarity, and credibility in a crowded, fast-changing landscape.
Featured speakers.
DeRondal Bevly is the Founder and Managing Director of RubyRose Strategies, where he advises executives, founders, and civic leaders on narrative power, attention strategy, and decision-making in moments of volatility. With nearly two decades of experience across public affairs, media, and leadership development, his work sits at the intersection of culture, systems, and influence. DeRondal is also an adjunct professor in business and entrepreneurship, a leadership coach, and a frequent facilitator for senior cohorts and boards. His work blends systems thinking, cultural insight, and practical execution to help leaders move from clarity to action.
Scott Baskin is the current CEO of the Small Business Advocacy Council. Scott retired as President and CEO of Mark Shale. Mark Shale was Chicago’s largest independent clothing retailer with stores in Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas, Kansas City, and St. Louis. Prior to his business career, Scott served as Chief Legislative Assistant to the late Congressman Abner Mikva. In addition to his professional experience, Scott is an engaged community leader. He is a board member of Uptown United, an economic development organization serving Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood. He was an elected member of the Northside College Prep High School Local Council and chair of its finance committee, past treasurer of the Center for Law and Social Work and past board member of WBEZ, Chicago Public Media. He advises and mentors several Chicago based small and medium size businesses. He is a graduate of Vassar College and Northwestern University School of Law.
Karen Kimsey Sward is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience helping organizations elevate performance, strengthen leadership, and build engaged, high performing cultures. As COO of Dale Carnegie Chicago, she cultivates an engaged internal team while partnering with clients to strengthen leadership, culture, and the people capabilities that fuel long term success. Her background includes serving as VP of Franchising for the Americas at Dale Carnegie & Associates, co-founding a management consulting firm, and acting as EVP/COO of a leading sales training company. A published writer, accomplished speaker, and certified executive coach, Karen focuses on emotional intelligence, leadership effectiveness, and sustainable performance. She also serves on several boards, including the SBAC.
Who's hosting it.
Elliot Richardson is the Co-Founder and President of the Small Business Advocacy Council. The SBAC advocates for the small business community, providing a unified and strong voice on issues that impact small businesses, local communities, and the economy. The SBAC brings small businesses together to form meaningful connections for those involved.
Questions? Talk@UglyTalk.com
Location
The Yard - Fulton Market
1101 W Lake St.
Chicago