Gail Zelitzky

Gail Zelitzky is a career entrepreneur. Since 2000, Gail has coached business women and small business owners in all stages of growth to make the leap to the next level, through her consulting practice, GEARSHIFT. Recognized for her practical, no-nonsense approach, astute perception of challenges faced by her clients, plus her strategic and creative approach to problem solving, she consistently produces extraordinary results for her clients. Gail speaks, facilitates, coaches and consults, all on guiding women to stand in their own power and grow personally and professionally. She is sought after as a speaker and presents keynotes, workshops and seminars.

Gail is the author of 3 books in the Soar for Success series, as well as children's book, Patches. She frequently publishes articles on business growth and podcasting and is often interviewed by the media.

Founder of Wonder Women Mastermind Club, Gail facilitates an exclusive, online group of women business owners to collaboratively connect for success. To apply, learn more at https://gailzelitzky.com/wonder-women-mastermind

As founder and co-host of the weekly podcast, Women Over 70-Aging Reimagined, Gail and Catherine Marienau shatter the myth that women become invisible as they age. They interview vital, vibrant women 70-100+. Their mission is to change the conversation about aging. Their Aging Reimagined Circle offers monthly programs on issues that matter to women aging. Invite us to speak to your company or organization, listen and review the podcast and, if women aging is the market you wish to reach, consider becoming a sponsor. To be a guest or make a referral, write to us at info@womenover70.com.

Gail Zelitzky has owned her own businesses since 1977: first, a multi-state franchise operation, then a worldwide direct marketing company for alcoholic beverages, and a disruptive e-commerce business. From 1994 through 2000, Gail built Liquor By Wire® and Liquor.com® into multi-million dollar businesses. She co-wrote her company’s S-1 for proposed 2000 IPO and participated in all functions of the IPO process, including development of a strong management team.

As President, partner and COO of Foremost Sales Promotions, Inc., franchisor of Foremost Liquor Stores®, Gail spent 17 years fueling growth for this 300+ group of independent retailers that achieved nation-wide, chain-store status through mass merchandising, unique sales promotions and co-operative advertising.

Also a life-long learner, Gail completed her Masters of Arts degree in 2015 in Applied Professional Studies (MAAPS) at DePaul University. Her work centered on using creativity to develop long term, sustainable businesses. In 2019, she received the David O. Justice Award for entrepreneurial success from DePaul.

Teaching is a passion and Gail was contracted by Interise in 2008 to deliver the StreetWise Steps to Small Business Growth™ curriculum. Later she was asked to coach the instructors. (2008-2020)

Gail served as a Board member for the charitable foundation of the Small Business Advocacy Council (SBAC Empower), was past president and member of the year of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO Chicago); past Chair, Treasurer and Chairman’s Award Winner of Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce; past director of Illinois Retail Merchants Association (IRMA).

She currently mentors for Chicago Innovation's Ageless Innovators and Women Empowerment Council.