Our Story and Mission

CEO/President

Co-Founder & Business Growth Strategist

John’s entrepreneurial journey began with humble roots—building a business from nothing more than a vision and sheer determination. In 2002, John co-founded Visonex, a healthcare technology company that developed electronic health record software specifically for the dialysis market. What started as a small home-based venture rapidly scaled into a thriving organization employing over 100 professionals across multiple locations, including an international development arm in Quito, Ecuador. After two decades of success, John proudly sold Visonex in 2023.

Long before founding Visonex, John demonstrated his passion for community-driven initiatives, partnering with former Green Bay Packer Reggie White to establish Urban Hope, a nonprofit aimed at revitalizing urban communities.

John’s extensive leadership experience taught him a crucial lesson: success isn't accidental—it’s process-driven. He believes deeply in developing strong, reliable systems that allow businesses to scale without losing their humanity or sense of purpose. John excels in strategic thinking, leadership development, and empowering entrepreneurs to find balance and joy in their businesses.

CEI represents John’s commitment to helping others avoid the pitfalls and challenges he overcame himself. He takes personal pride and fulfillment in mentoring businesses to sustainable success, firmly believing in the transformative power of pragmatic guidance, honesty, and process-oriented strategies.

Why John does this:
“To me, business is a game of chess—strategic, thoughtful, and rewarding. CEI lets me keep playing that game, sharing what I’ve learned to help others succeed. My goal is to help entrepreneurs create businesses that support the lives they truly want—rather than businesses that consume their entire lives.”

Co-Founder & Startup Coach, U.S. Army Veteran

Bob Jahnke has been on an entrepreneurial path since 1982, launching, scaling, and selling multiple successful businesses across a variety of industries including carpet cleaning, insurance, advertising distribution, travel, publishing, printing, mailing, marketing, lead generation, business coaching, and CRM solutions. Bob's career is characterized by relentless innovation, pragmatic marketing strategies, and an unwavering dedication to entrepreneurial growth.

Throughout his professional journey, Bob has consistently prioritized mentorship and coaching. As an active volunteer with SCORE since 2007 and co-founder of the HBBA Referral Network (a vibrant group with over 150 members), Bob has empowered countless entrepreneurs by sharing his wisdom and holding them accountable to their goals. His passion for mentorship extends to his role as a judge in DECA and Foxconn entrepreneurial competitions, where he helps guide the next generation of business leaders.

Bob's coaching philosophy is strongly influenced by his admiration for thought leaders like Tony Robbins, emphasizing personal responsibility, accountability, and strategic action-taking. He’s especially skilled at taking entrepreneurs from initial idea stages through the meticulous crafting of effective business plans, marketing strategies, and financial roadmaps.

At CEI, Bob leverages decades of real-world experience to offer hands-on mentorship and pragmatic guidance. He specializes in cost-effective and no-cost marketing strategies, helping startups thrive even on limited budgets. Bob’s structured approach and unwavering encouragement help entrepreneurs move past fear, procrastination, and overwhelm to create sustainable, profitable businesses.

Why Bob does this:
“I’ve witnessed firsthand how proper mentorship and practical advice can transform lives. At CEI, we’re not just building businesses—we’re giving hope, clarity, and real solutions to entrepreneurs who deserve a chance. This work gives me purpose, keeps me energized, and most importantly, allows me to positively impact my community.”

Client Success & Tribal Affairs Specialist

Kate Christnot brings to CEI a uniquely powerful combination of legal expertise, grant management experience, and deep dedication to community support. As a former Tribal Attorney and Tribal Grant Specialist for the Federal Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Kate has spent her career navigating complex federal funding processes to secure critical resources for underserved communities.

Kate’s impressive track record includes managing and overseeing multiple ACF grants specifically focused on tribal communities, as well as providing strategic consulting on child support, TANF grant applications, and program implementation. Her hands-on experience spans diverse roles—ranging from a high school tutor and mock-court leader to direct care provider for adults with disabilities, house supervisor at a homeless shelter, family success coach, and certified mediator. Kate’s certifications as a Mental Health Technician and Positive Dog Trainer further exemplify her commitment to holistic approaches that serve entire families and communities.

At CEI, Kate ensures all internal compliance processes and paperwork are managed seamlessly, enabling John and Bob to focus purely on mentorship and direct client support. Kate strongly advocates for a holistic, family-centered approach, always emphasizing the importance of supportive networks and community resources.

Why Kate does this:
“I’ve always believed real change happens when communities and families receive support in every aspect of their lives. At CEI, we don't just build stronger businesses—we build stronger families, resilient communities, and provide genuine pathways for sustainable success.”