From Lawyer To Hotel Owner

Inspired by chats with Richard Branson, former Chicago attorney (and Chicago bus driver before that) Jim Nagle left everything he knew to embark on the journey of a lifetime: saving the dilapidated The Drake Oak Brook in Illinois from a ponzi-scheme disaster with zero hotel experience but with unwavering persistence — A hotel he cherished from his numerous childhood holiday vacations.

Now, the property has reimagined itself as one of the Midwest’s most beloved landmark hotels. Formerly housing guests like Frank Sinatra and King Charles, Jim and his wife, Tely, have not only brought the historic property back to its original grandeur but have built a brand with the upcoming launch of residences, recent acquisition of luxury yacht yachts, new restaurant opening and more.