In our efforts to celebrate and connect women in business, B2B focused this year on women who've made it to the top, in their own words. We asked 25 female business and community leaders via email three questions to give you a little insight into what makes these success stories tick.

1. What was the best piece of advice you've received?

2. Who is your mentor or hero?

3. What is one secret to your success?

The women who responded come from a variety of industries, from retail to manufacturing, from restaurants to insurance. But you'll notice as you read through the responses, that they all share an enthusiasm for what they do and a commitment to the basics of successful business.

Vicki Tilton

Owner and President, Fox & Hounds Hair Studio and Day Spa and Owner and Independent Technician of Vicki L Tilton, LLC a Permanent Make-up and Paramedical Cosmetic Tattoo Business

What was the best piece of advice you've received? Neither of my parents was highly educated (mother-high school and father-8th grade) but they were both very wise people. my mother's words that have stayed with me my whole life-"Can't never could do nothin' " and my father's most constant reassurance to me was "These things always work out" in reference to any problem I was stressing over. They both passed away fairly young but I still apply both of those philosophies in most everything I do and I try to pass them along to the young people I work with.

Who was your mentor or hero? My mother was a hard working woman and gave me a work ethic that I am al-ways grateful for. The most valuable thing my parents left me was that work ethic.

What is one secret to your success? Do the right thing. When I weigh a situation in the work place or any where in life I pray about it and ask God to show me what is the right thing to do in whatever the situation is . It always becomes very clear to me. About 90% of the time life is not nearly as complicated as people want to make it. Usu-ally there is a right way and a wrong way and the choice is very clear; it's just making the decision to do the right thing and to accept the consequences of your choice if you don't do it.

Dottie Bushnell Jackie Pope-Ganser, Pam Locsin and Sarah Bushnell

Owners, The Garlic Press

What is the best advice you've recieved? Listen to your customes!

Who are you mentors or heroes? Surprisingly several of us named our mothers as our best role models or men-tors. One said her mother showed her how to be considerate, to value people of all kinds and to be honest. An-other said her mother gave her a strong work ethic and an "I can do anything" attitude.

What is one secret of your success? Adaptability! Using the talents of a lot of great people. Being willing to take some risks and do things in an unconventional way.

Stephanie Weeks

Owner, operator, Granite Transformations

What was the best piece of advice you've received? Give the customer more than they expect and before they expect it!

Who was your mentor or hero? Fortunately for me I grew up with a never say die attitude because of my moth-ers work ethic. She taught me to believe that anything is possible as long as you truely believe in yourself.

What is one secret to your success? Dedication to customer care.

Elizabeth Binning

Director, Illinois Small Business Development

Center at ISU

What was the best piece of advice you've received? In the event of a loss of cabin pressure, first place the oxygen mask on yourself before assisting others. Not only is that good advice when traveling on an airplane, but it is a great metaphor for life. It reminds me that I need to focus on my own growth at times - to keep my personal and business "house" in order - so that I can do my best for others.

Who was your mentor or hero? My step-daughter Lauren, who is a sophomore in college, has been a great inspi-ration to me. I watched her overcome some challenges as a child with courage and an unusual measure of grace. I now delight in the fact that she has become a thoughtful, substantive, and fun-loving adult.

What is one secret to your success? Surround yourself with people who you trust to tell you the negative as well as the positive - both at work and home. We are all works in progress, and constructive feedback, albeit seemingly critical, can be more useful than praise. For it to be really helpful, it has to come from someone you trust has your interests in mind. I am always trying to hone my radar for these types of people. They'll be there for support when you need it and they'll be there to remind you of who you are when you need to be grounded.

Julie Dobski

Owner - Little Jewels Learning Center and Co-owner McDonald's Restaurants with Bob

What was the best piece of advice you've received? Treat others as you would like

to be treated; Be passionate and compassionate. Live ~ Love ~ Laugh

Who was your mentor or hero? I have many mentors and heros - I've learned so much from so many at different times in my life.

What is one secret to your success? There is no secret - surround yourself with great people.

Gwendolyn S. Husek

CIC, ARM; President and owner, American Risk and Insurance Associates, Inc. - more than just insurance

What was the best piece of advice you've received? The best advice that I have received and continue to pass along is this: Do not give up or quit when things are at the worst. You must wait until everything is good and then make the decision as to whether it is time to move on or make changes.

Who was your mentor or hero? I have had several different mentors or heros in my life time. Each one was unique in the influence that they had on my life. They also appeared in my life at the point they were most needed. Conincidence? I don't think so. I believe what you send out comes back to you, so as the saying goes be careful what you wish for.

What is one secret to your success? Success for me has many parts. Being honest in dealing with people is a priority. Then doing my very best not perfection but excellence is what I strive to achieve. Finally, being at peace and happy with me.

Karen Wilkey

General Manager/ Heller Ford Sales, Inc

What was the best piece of advice you've received? I once was told, "Find something you love to do and you'll never have to work a day in your life".

Who was your mentor or hero? My Father, he taught his children to be the very best that they can be every day of their life.

What is one secret to your success? One secret to my success is, I am able to find humor in situations that might drive others crazy.

Vicki Dick

Business/position: Curves Bloomington, Washington, Metamora, IL

Curves is a fitness facility designed specifically for women that features a 30-minute workout and a Weight Management program that's fast, fun & safe.

What was the best piece of advice you've received? Don't let anyone rain on your parade, poke a hole in your balloon, or stamp out the fire of desire in your heart! In the 8 years that we've been in business, I've repeated that "mantra" over and over to myself during times of trouble or distress! When we were a new business here in Bloomington, one night a little lady ran her car through the front of our facility, putting us out of business! The facility couldn't be repaired in a timely manner and I thought the world was ending! Through persistence and determination, we found another location that was 3 times the size we thought it should be, but in order to get back into business quickly, we signed the lease and took the bigger space. As it turned out, we needed that bigger space with unlimited parking! Our business tripled overnight as a result of that move! Sometimes things seem "endarkening" and turn out to be enlightening!! We, as business owners, just have to keep plugging away with the desire in our hearts as fuel!

Who was your mentor or hero? I was an Area Director for the company that owned Chicago Haircutting Com-pany, and I opened and directed the salons here in Central Illinois. The owner, Florence Poggi, was my hero as she was unfailingly honest, loving, responsible, and forthright. She was an entrepreneur that believed in doing business the "old fashioned way," and she taught me to be down-to-earth and good to employees and customers. Florence also believed in continuing education, and I have drawn from the education I received from Florence and as a nurse to help pass education regarding preventative health practices to our Curves members. It is preventa-tive practices that help people be aware of what they must do on a daily basis to avoid diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, arthritis, and many other disorders that end up killing people. Florence taught me to love my customers and that if I possess the knowledge about preventative health, it is my responsibility to pass that knowledge to my members.

What is one secret to your success? I believe passionately in what we do. Curves is an avenue that enables us to get the health message to women, and that is a powerful, wonderful, and important thing!

I also believe that anticipating problems is a key to success. If a business owner can become an expert at antici-pating future problems, she can be ready for anything. We know that vacancies in staffing can arise, so we always plan to develop each staff member to the fullest, anticipating vacancies in management. We plan to have "someone in the wings" at all times who can step into a vacant management position. We believe in promoting "from within," and we nuture and grow our staff so that our business can grow and prosper.

Jennifer C. McCarron

Business Builders/Vice President

What was the best piece of advice you've received? When I was getting my M.A. in communications, I took a "rhetorical analysis" course in which we selected and extensively analyzed collections of speeches. I chose to focus my studies on Mother Teresa, a tiny woman full of faith and spunk. She talked about how with God as your foundation, nothing can ever shake you. And, she acted in accordance to this belief. Her daily devotion to the sick and dying was unbelievable and her advice was simple yet powerful.

While many of Mother Teresa's words deeply impacted my life, I'll never forget her statement that, "There are no great things, only small things with great love." She reminded us that we are all "God's pencils," called to do what we can - to the best of our abilities. Our mark may be small and perhaps even seem to go unnoticed at times, but our tiny tick will indeed have great impact.

Who was your mentor or hero? Easy question, my father, friend, and boss Dick Eikenberg. Dad has shown me, day after day, year after year, that you absolutely can achieve your dreams by combining hard work and complete dedication. Over two decades ago, he took a small logowear business, Flatlander Industries, from nothing to success. While others may have been happy with the status quo, good is and will never be good enough for my Dad. He realized that we had something great: an entire team of motivated marketing professionals with the ability to help other businesses thrive. He again took a risk and started Business Builders, our marketing and sales outsourcing division, which is now a successful full-service firm specializing in taking organizations-large and small-to new levels.

Under his leadership, our team has truly blossomed. We feed off of his energy and passion for helping his fellow business leaders. And, we realize that there is nothing we can't learn and achieve once we put our minds to it. He holds me, and the team, up to pretty high standards. And, because of this we are both challenged and confident. I am truly blessed to have his positive influence in my life. Thanks Dad; you are truly an inspiration.

What is one secret to your success? Caffeine. Sure, success takes hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude, but without caffeine is any of that really possible? I'm sure that one day great places like the Coffee Hound in Downtown Bloomington and Uptown Normal will be honored for their contributions to the success of many.

Molly Bradle

Partner at Rosie's

What was the best piece of advice you've received? A coach I had once told "If your satisfied, your finished." That is what helped me get here today, to have my own place.

Who was your mentor or hero? My parents. They are both hard working people, who were able to juggle many things and do them all well.

What is one secret to your success? In my line of work you have to be there all the time making sure everything goes smoothly. I also have an amazing staff that works very hard for me. Building relationships with the custom-ers is what makes everyday worth while, and I have made a lot of great friends through having Rosie's.

Julie Kubsch

Owner-Specs Around Town Optical Boutique/Optician

What was the best piece of advice you've received? It's OK to be wrong or make a mistake. Don't point your fin-ger, blame someone else, or say that's not my job. Admit it, fix it and learn from it.

Who was your mentor or hero? My father, who passed away 18 years ago. He never got to see my business even in its infancy. It wasn't even a dream in my mind at that time. He probably would've tried to talk me out of it because of the long hours he worked!!! My dad owned a Ford/Lincoln Mercury dealership and hIs work ethic and honesty were incredible. He cared very much for his customers and employees. He also knew the importance of networking and getting involved/giving back to the community.

What is one secret to your success? Always follow through on what you have promised to do. Don't say you will do something and then let it slip under the rug. Dependability builds your credibility. And if it's OK to say two "secrets" my other would be to get involved in community groups, networking and events. My business would never be where it is today if I had just hung a shingle, unlocked the door and sat within my storefront(or in my VW!). But remember its OK to have the strength to say no. I'm involved in many organizations but at times when it's overwhelming or I feel like I have 12 pots on 4 burners I just have to say "no, I simply can put no more on my plate at this time". People will understand and appreciate your honesty-and also trust me you will be asked again to get involved!

Jan Lancaster

AKA The Momma

The Bistro/15 years Lancasters' 10 years

What is the best advice you've recieved? Go with your gut feelings-usually it is right AND most importantly always give back

Who is you mentor or hero? There have been so many, in my life; if I had to narrow it down I would say- my Mother - I feel she taught me good work ethics by seeing her example; Judy Markowitz - we share such a love for downtown and has always provided me with guidance; Several friends that have passed away really showed me what was important in life: Wyl Moore, Jerry Bratcher and Gene Lyle.

What is one secret to your success? I believe success cannot be measured only in monetary gain. Most independent businesses struggle each day and my businesses are no different. I feel successful and grateful for my employees at Lancaster's; many of whom have been with me since we opened. My business partner Rob (at Lancaster's) has shared the adventure of running a small business in a sea of franchises and has the same attitude as mine - to not give up and continue to offer the best quality and service possible and to let our customer's know how much they are appreciated.

The Bistro continues to evolve and is now one of the oldest bars under the same ownership in Downtown Bloomington. Employees help make your success and you must be willing to change and grow.

The most important things in life are achieved, out of love.

Deborah Risberg

Owner and Director of Main Street Yoga and Healing Arts, also partner in our new shop called "Bliss" Re-sources for Slowing Down".

What was the best piece of advice you've received? Do what you love. Don't be afraid to take risks to achieve your dreams. Focus on the quality of your relationships with others.

Who was your mentor or hero? Mary Munson who started Common Ground and now owns City Consignments is an example of someone who has followed her own path and made a success of everything she has done. She seems to have her finger on the pulse of what is needed and wanted in our community and she has the patience to stick with it and make it a success.

What is one secret to your success? Focusing on the importance of having a "Yoga Community" and making Main Street Yoga a refuge for people. It is a place where they can totally relax and do something positive for their minds and bodies. Also, I have received many years of training at Kripalu Yoga Center in Lenox, MA and worked with many of the finest yoga teachers in the country. I continue to upgrade my own practice for the benefit of myself and my students. I am extremely grateful for our students, the incredible teaching staff, our professional therapists and people who work in the shop because we all help each other to be successful.

Linda Lindus

Publisher and President, The Pantagraph

Vice President for Publishing,

Lee Enterprises, Inc.

What was the best piece of advice you've received? No matter what job you are doing, whether it's making the bed or a peanut butter sandwich, do the very best job you can. Your best work is a reflection of you.

Who was your mentor or hero? My grandmother.

What is one secret to your success? Many people have the ability to do well, but only a few have the desire. Find the people with the ability and desire to do great work and surround yourself with them. They will challenge you and make you a better leader.

Kelly Mathy

Owner/president, Kelly's Bakery & Café

What was the best piece of advice you've received? The best piece of advice that I have received has been to follow your heart's desire…ever since I was a child, I wanted to work with food in some capacity. My mother always encouraged me to follow my dreams; both as a teacher and entrepreneur. Now I am able to do both.

Who was your mentor or hero? My husband, Jamie, is my hero…without him and his uncanny ability to "bal-ance" me, Kelly's would have never happened. His support and advice (and hard work) has help to make Kelly's a successful business.

What is one secret to your success? I would say the number one factor that has contributed to my success has been a consistent, strong work ethic. Owning a business and teaching has forced me to become as efficient with my time as humanly possible. I use the time I have to make sure that Kelly's is a place that has good food, a friendly staff, and prompt service. Having the excellent staff and support of friends/family really does make the work fun; even into the wee hours of the morning. Our holiday "baking club" of pajama wearing friends and of course, my mom…sprawled out in the dining room, listening to holiday music and decorating thousands of cookies has become a tradition; the long hours are a lot of fun with the ones you love when you really care about what you're doing. And I do.

Char Huff

ABR, CRS, GRI

Real estate broker/associate

Prudential Snyder Real Estate

What was the best piece of advice you've received? LISTEN! Sales people often do too much talking and not enough listening.

Who was your mentor or hero? I trained under Pat Kaisner at Kaisner Realty and have always given her the credit for any success I've had in the business. She was my mentor and a tremendous broker an trainer. I also include in my success the training and many years of participation in the Dale Carnegie Human Relations Classes.

What is one secret to your success? I have always loved the challenge of setting goals and being in control of reaching those goals. I consider myself a "people person." I love being involved in the community and my church. I have been blessed by having my life touched by so many wonderful people and have gotten many refer-rals through the years. My friends say they think the reason for my success is my enthusiasm for life. Real estate has been good for me and to me. A few years ago I formed The Char Huff Realty Team. I have two team members and an office assistant. The trend in real estate today is to have an efficient team to give good service to a larger volume of business. It also enriches my business and my life to surround myself with other caring professionals.

Stephanie L. H. Calahan

Business/position: I am the founder and CEO of Calahan Solutions, Inc. We are productivity and organization consultants that focus on helping individuals identify and implement systems that allow them to live their life focused on their priorities. Over 85% of our clients contact us initially with concerns with paper and information overload. I personally consult and speak on a variety of topics. You don't have to do it our way, because we help you find your way.™

What was the best piece of advice you've received?

Know who you are now, in the present moment, and be true to who you are in everything you do.

Who was your mentor or hero?

To identify one person as my mentor or hero would be impossible. All of the business gurus tell you to find someone that has a skill that you desire to develop and hang out with them in any way that you can to learn from them. I am very blessed to have a number of people that have made a huge impact on my life. I have listed a few below.

My dad, through all of his various jobs, has had a tremendous positive impact on me and on thousands of people in his life by helping them grow and develop into better individuals. He has done so with a huge amount of modesty, passion and charisma. I can only hope to have such a positive impact on those I work with!

My mom continues to teach me how to be a strong independent woman and a fabulous wife and mother all at the same time. She does not sacrifice one for the other. She has guided me while letting me figure out who I am.

Mr. Lynn Wenzel was my Jr. High and High school vocal and choir teacher. He was passionate about teaching and found new and creative ways for us to learn what he was teaching. He was tough. He made us work very hard, but we also knew that he was tough because he really cared. He knew what we were capable of and worked to help us know! I learned huge lessons about how to work under great pressure, yet look totally at ease. I use the lessons I learned from him every day as I work with clients and speak in front of groups.

Ms. A.C. Beale was my boss and friend for 3.5 years while at ISU (and still my friend and mentor now.) She ruled (and still does) tough but fair. Her expectations were higher for us than any other employer on campus. "Early is on time and on time is late" was a mantra of hers. She taught us what it meant to be professional. She refused to allow us to be mediocre. She also taught me the value of diversity in the workplace and began my interest in studying the topic.

Mr. Dale Fitzgibbons was one of my business professors at ISU. I was only required to take one of his courses, but I took many more just to learn from him. He was the toughest professor I ever had, because he made me think. His coursework was not about memorizing facts. It was about understanding various concepts and how they apply to real life situations. They were a mix of business basics and philosophy. I learned to reflect and began my learning on team dynamics from Fitz. His insight is frequently different from the "standard" yet right on and I continue to learn from him.

Mr. Jim Konieczny was my mentor for a number of years after I had graduated college. Prior to starting my own company, I worked for a number of years for a large HR consulting firm. He worked directly with me to learn the finer points of how to communicate with clients from fortune 500 companies and smaller, how to effectively manage managers and staff, how to understand financials, and so much more. His knowledge was (and is) amazing. I learned both from our one on one conversations as well as watching how he functioned in his role. He was outstanding at knowing way more than his staff, yet finding ways to lead them to the answers rather than telling them.

NAWBO - The National Association of Women Business Owners - There are a number of very successful women that are members of the central IL chapter of NAWBO. I have gained valuable insights from many of them and admire many of them because of what they have been able to accomplish.

What is one secret to your success?

Organization of course! Good consultants practice what they preach and continually learn so that they can offer solutions that work for the uniqueness of each client. We love what we do on a daily basis and work to gain insight from a variety of different perspectives in order to continue to learn and grow with what we do.