Mentorship, Mayors & McDonald’s: Dan Gibbons on Legacy Leadership

In this After the Show conversation, Dan Gibbons, CEO of the City Club of Chicago, pulls back the curtain on the mentors, moments, and memories that shaped his leadership journey.

From his time with legendary chairman Andy McKenna to building a table that welcomes activists, students, and prime ministers alike, Dan shares why mentorship matters more than ever. This intimate chat with Laurette Rondenet covers everything from the art of gathering to Chicago’s deep civic roots, and even favorite pizza spots, monuments, and firefighter family legacies.

💡 In this episode, you’ll discover:

•How legendary mentor Andy McKenna changed Dan’s life

•Why “being in the room” is the secret to growth and opportunity

•What makes Chicago the best walkable city for gathering and connection

•Why creating inclusive spaces can redefine civic leadership

•How City Club is elevating the next generation through access and intention

•Stories of resilience from Dan’s firefighter family history and civic service

This is a heartfelt reminder that your legacy is built not just on what you do—but who you bring along for the journey.

👉 Watch Dan’s full episode of Owning Your Legacy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVPipy-js5U&t=373s

👉 Visit https://www.cityclub-chicago.org or follow them on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cityclubchicago/ to learn more and get involved.

🔗 Connect with Dan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-gibbons-9aa2497/

🌐 Learn more about Laurette Rondenet and Owning Your Legacy: https://www.lauretterondenet.com

🛎️ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support meaningful conversations like this one.

🎙️ You can also listen to this episode on your favorite podcasting platform by searching Owning Your Legacy.

Video & Photo credits to:

@rishi.productions

@gosiasimprint

If you enjoyed the episode please share it with others, and rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. To learn more about me and how I am Owning My Legacy, you can find me on Instagram @LauretteRondenet and online at lauretterondenet.com.