Fostering the Next Generation: Leadership Lessons with Jeff Williamson and Jacob Knox
On this episode of Leadership LevelUp, Jacob Knox returns to join Jeff Williamson in an engaging conversation about leadership and community connection. Jakob, the CEO of the Manteno Chamber of Commerce and the marketing director for the village of Manteno, shares his journey from a high school job at the park district to leading community-focused initiatives.
Listen in as Jakob discusses the importance of collaboration and his strategic approach to leadership. His passion for connecting with people and understanding their stories comes through vividly, illustrating how these personal connections are the foundation of his leadership style.
Jakob highlights his efforts to cultivate future entrepreneurs and small business owners by envisioning physical spaces for gathering and growth in Manteno. He also touches on the significance of making sure every voice is heard and valued in the community, advocating for inclusivity and diversity.
Throughout the episode, Jeff and Jakob talk about the importance of having a personal board of directors—people who offer honest feedback and guidance. You’ll hear about Jacob’s drive to mentor young individuals and the joy he finds in seeing others thrive and succeed.
Tune in to gain insights from Jakob’s experiences and learn how his leadership has influenced change and growth in his community. Discover valuable lessons for fostering collaboration, inclusivity, and personal growth.
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Meet The Guest

Jakob Knox works hard to promote and strengthen the local business community by forming positive and impactful working relationships while continuing to build upon and support our community’s business sector. Jakob also serves as the Marketing and Community Relations Director for the Village of Manteno.
Born and raised in Limestone Township, Jakob is a 2017 Herscher High School graduate, and received his degree from Kankakee Community College. His passion for community ignited at sixteen years old when he was employed at the Bourbonnais Township Park District. In 2021 Jakob began his professional career at Milner Media Partners as a Marketing & Sales Account Executive.
Understanding the importance of community involvement and giving back Jakob serves on the Board of Directors for United Way of Kankakee and Iroquois Counties, is a member of the Manteno Rotary Club, and serves on the Auxiliary Board for the Kankakee County Museum.
Currently, Jakob resides in Bourbonnais with his partner Josh, an 8th-grade Special Education Teacher at Bourbonnais Upper Grade Center with their two dogs Ruby and Hazel. In his free time Jakob enjoys spending time with his friends and family, volunteering, caring for his plethora of house plants, building LEGOS, and tapping into his creative side.
About the Leadership LevelUp Podcast
Being a boss and a leader are very different. A boss tells you what to do and a leader partners with you in the process. Jeff, being a leader of leaders, has a vast knowledge of best practices and exercises to discover leadership traits. Jeff shares about the ups and downs of the leadership quest while talking to business and community leaders to discuss their personal leadership journey. Who influenced them? What do they do when they have a bad day? What gives them inspiration? Do french fries or tacos or ice cream make them feel better after a bad day? Through laughter and casual conversation, they explore all aspects of good leadership.
Meet The Host

Dr. Jeff Williamson
Dr. Jeff Williamson is the Founder of Converge Group Inc. an executive coaching and people development practice. Prior to launching his business in 2017, he was a Dean, Executive Director, and Professor of Organizational Leadership serving in higher education for over 30 years.
He holds a bachelor’s, and master’s degree in Speech Communication, and a Doctor of Education degree (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership and was a post-doctoral student at The Ohio State University, Fisher College of Business. He is the host of “Leadership LevelUp” podcast and is also a Gallup-certified Strengths Coach.
He regularly teaches and speaks to business and industry on topics such as: Personal Leadership, Leadership Paradigms, Leading Change, Discover Your Strengths, Building a Strengths-Based Organization, Coaching, Mentoring & Conflict Resolution.
Show Sponsor
Pathfinder: A full-service creative & marketing agency with a mission to provide strategic storytelling to our clients. There is no greater impact in this world than a story. Storytelling is how we learn, remember, and feel. The world has used storytelling since the beginning of time to entertain, teach, inspire, and innovate. Pathfinder’s mission is to provide strategic storytelling for our clients. How? Through inventive business services and pioneering campaigns that help organizations find their own path and carry out their vision.