Critical Mass for Business

Kristin Epperson is the driving force behind Charity Matterz , an organization dedicated to strengthening the structural foundation and sustainability of nonprofits. Charity Matterz empowers organizations by providing strategic guidance in leadership development, operational optimization, and fostering long-term sustainability. By embedding social equity into every aspect of its work, Charity Matterz ensures that its solutions are inclusive and impactful.

As the Founder and CEO, Kristin brings a wealth of expertise in nonprofit management and business strategy. Her skills in negotiation, organizational design, and data-driven decision-making have positioned Charity Matterz as a trusted partner for nonprofits aiming to build sustainable and resilient systems. Kristin’s innovative approach emphasizes the importance of developing structures that enable nonprofits to achieve their missions effectively and sustainably.

In addition to leading Charity Matterz, Kristin holds influential roles such as President of the Laguna Niguel Rotary Club and U.S. Ambassador to FODEMA in Malawi and LifeLink Rwanda. Her work with nonprofits like Otra Mas has been transformative, where she has implemented robust systems, optimized resource allocation, and fostered strategic partnerships that promote long-term viability.

Charity Matterz is driven by a mission to build sustainable nonprofit organizations that uplift all aspects of human life. By fostering a culture of collaboration and addressing the needs of the most vulnerable, the organization envisions a future where effective structures and partnerships lead to lasting and meaningful change. Charity Matterz celebrates the intrinsic value of every individual, creating a legacy of empowerment, compassion, and sustainable impact.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Ashleigh Louis, PhD, and Jeff Soilson, JD, co-founded Quantum ADR to help people stay out of court and avoid legal fees through mediation. As a dual-licensed psychologist and marriage and family therapist alongside a former family law litigator, they weave together their combined five decades of psychology and family law experience to facilitate negotiation, insight, and value-aligned decision-making. Their fully online practice meets clients where they are in order to support them through conflict as effectively and efficiently as possible.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

In his role as COO and Co-Founder at Stratus Financial , Brandon Martini spearheads strategic initiatives and oversees day-to-day operations to drive growth and ensure operational excellence. Together with Stratus FInancial's exceptional team, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the company's vision and implementing a customer-centric approach. Stratus' mission is to revolutionize the financial landscape by offering comprehensive and intuitive solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of its clients.

Brandon has been flying since 2014 and holds Commercial Pilot Certificates along with CFI/CFII/MEI instructor ratings. He has a deep knowledge of part 141 and part 61 flight school operations in addition to training guidelines set forth by syllabuses and the FAA.

With expertise in flight instruction and a deep understanding of pilot student loans and private finance, Brandon leverages his skills to create innovative solutions in the aviation industry.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Naushad Huda is a Senior Principal at Slalom , a global management consulting firm, where he leads customer strategy for Contact Center Transformations. He leads with a passion for research, problem-solving, and actionable insights. His career is marked by an unwavering belief in human potential, a trait that fuels his optimism and commitment to creating meaningful connections.

Naushad’s curiosity is boundless, driving him to explore new ideas and continuously learn. This insatiable curiosity has not only propelled his professional achievements but also inspired his passion project, VINOPOP™. This unique venture’s mission is to “bring the tasting room experience out of the tasting room”, offering intimate wine-tasting events led by winemakers. By understanding the nuances of why people love visiting winery tasting rooms, Naushad crafted an experience that blends storytelling with personal enjoyment. The success of these pop-up events has led to the launch of VINOPOP™ Private, which offers personalized wine-tasting experiences for both home gatherings and corporate events.

Naushad attributes much of his success to three key qualities: curiosity, humility in acknowledging what he doesn’t know, and a strong commitment to trust and integrity. He encourages others to nurture their curiosity, embrace the learning process, and maintain a reputation of honesty and reliability.

His journey is a testament to the power of asking questions, embracing new challenges, and building trust. Through VINOPOP™, Naushad continues to create memorable and educational experiences, emphasizing that it’s not just about the wine, but the stories, connections, and moments shared.

As Naushad looks to the future, he remains excited about expanding VINOPOP™ and bringing the magic of the tasting room to more people in innovative and engaging ways. His story exemplifies the impact of curiosity, integrity, and human connection in both personal and professional realms.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Anoushka Mirchandani is the founder of SIMMER , a financial literacy platform designed to make managing money simple and approachable. With almost two decades of experience in the financial services industry, including leadership roles at Morgan Stanley and BlackRock, Anoushka has a proven track record of driving innovation and building strategic solutions.

At SIMMER, Anoushka focuses on offering bite-sized lessons and interactive tools through a gamified approach, helping users build confidence and take control of their financial futures. With the platform set to launch in 2025, Anoushka is dedicated to making financial literacy accessible and actionable for the next generation.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Steve Healis graduated from Cal Poly Pomona with an engineering degree but quickly realized he did not want to be an engineer. Procter & Gamble only hired engineers for their entry-level supervisory positions because engineers would have a better understanding of the technology – BUT they had to find engineers who also had people skills. Steve started as a supervisor in the laundry detergent (Tide, Bold, etc.) packaging department and, after two years, was promoted to warehouse manager. During this time, he learned how to hire, fire, discipline, motivate, and manage professionally.

Later, he was recruited by Frito-Lay as the Sales Operations Manager, overseeing distribution facilities and the truck fleet in the Pacific Northwest. His last corporate job was as Sales and Customer Service Manager for Technicolor Videocassette in Newbury Park, CA. They duplicated videocassettes for all the major studios (Disney, Warner Brothers, MGM, etc.), and it was here that Steve learned about corporate sales and customer service. Six years of corporate jobs, combined with his engineering background, prepared him perfectly for business ownership.

In 1988, a friend from Procter & Gamble asked Steve to join him in growing his part-time janitorial business. Steve said yes, and in six years, they grew the company from one employee to 50. Seeking more, they split in 1994, and Steve started Avalon Building Maintenance, Inc. with 20 employees. Over the next five years, he grew it to 450 employees, making the Inc. 500 list. Engineers with Steve’s degree were known as “efficiency experts,” and he incorporated a limousine as a mobile office, equipped for work on the go.

In 2002, Steve was approached to sell his company but declined because key employees would be let go. Instead, in 2003, he sold the company to his top employees with a 50-year royalty agreement. This allowed Steve to create a unique way to sell businesses that gives the seller a lifetime of residual income while enabling employees to buy the business with no money down. He has since helped many other businesses sell their companies this way (PassTheBaton.com ).

This reduced schedule over the last 21 years has allowed Steve the time and resources to launch various businesses, including an employment agency, a computer company, and a home cleaning company. He has started 25 total businesses with 28 partners, employing over 1,500 people, and recently launched a logistics company that helps people receive, inspect, store, deliver, and install high-end furniture in their new home or office.

Steve lost his only daughter to mental illness and got divorced in 2018. In 2021, Steve met Andressa in Brazil, and they got married in 2023.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Mark T. Hebner is the founder and CEO of Index Fund Advisors, Inc., (IFA) , author of the highly regarded book Index Funds: The 12-Step Recovery Program for Active Investors, focused on investor education. Mark’s current book and previous editions received praise from financial industry experts and academic luminaries, including John Bogle, David Booth, Burton Malkiel, and Nobel Laureates Harry Markowitz and Paul Samuelson. The book has been nominated as one of the three all-time greatest investment books, along with the writings of John Bogle and Warren Buffett. This book details the possible perils associated with stock picking, mutual fund manager picking, market timing, and other wealth-depleting behaviors.

Hebner’s 12-Step Program teaches the differences between active and passive investing, explains the emotional triggers that impact investment decisions, and offers an enlightening education on evidence-based investing that may forever change the way an investor perceives the stock market.

Hebner is a respected speaker, frequent news contributor and authority on investing. His life’s mission is to “change the way the world invests by replacing speculation with education.” Hebner is especially knowledgeable about index funds, portfolio construction and the research indexes designed by Nobel Laureate Eugene Fama and Kenneth French. These indexes provide the building blocks for the prudent evidence-based investment strategies that Hebner implements for his IFA clients.

Mark is a Wealth Advisor (Series 65) and has an MBA from the University of California, Irvine and a Bachelor’s in Nuclear Pharmacy from the University of New Mexico. He was a member of the Young Presidents' Organization for over 20 years and is currently a member of the World Presidents’ Organization and the Chief Executives Organization.

Prior to founding Index Fund Advisors in 1999, Mark was President, CEO and co-Founder of Syncor International (previously a public company - SCOR) from 1975 to 1985. In Jan. 2003, Cardinal Health acquired Syncor for approximately $850 million. As a division of Cardinal Health, it is the world's leading provider of nuclear pharmacy services.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

John Forsyte has led Pacific Symphony since 1998, during which time it has emerged as the largest orchestral institution founded in the U.S. in the past 50 years. Under his leadership, the Symphony has grown in national and international stature. Pacific Symphony made its debut at Carnegie Hall in 2018 as one of two orchestras invited to perform in Philip Glass’ 80th birthday celebration. That same year, the Symphony embarked on its first tour of China, performing in five major cities. The 2017-18 season culminated with the Symphony's first nationally televised appearance on PBS’s Great Performances.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Forsyte spearheaded innovative community engagement efforts, including hundreds of video productions for schoolchildren and nonprofit partners. The Symphony also launched Symphony on the Go, a mobile stage concert series offering free performances in neighborhoods throughout the region. For its dedication to serving the community during this challenging time, Pacific Symphony was recognized as the Nonprofit of the Year for the Central/South Orange County region.

Forsyte's decades-long collaboration with Music Director Carl St.Clair has pioneered new concert formats and audience engagement methods, helping build an audience base that better reflects the demographics of Orange County. These initiatives include semi-staged opera productions, annual children’s offerings, the innovative Café Ludwig chamber music series with Orli Shaham and Pacific Symphony principal musicians.

A major milestone in Forsyte’s tenure was the creation of the American Composers Festival (ACF). The festival has featured thematic and contextual programs, world premieres, commissioned works, and performances of rarely heard pieces, highlighting the Symphony’s commitment to innovative and compelling programming. Over the years, the ACF has garnered critical acclaim and featured prominent composers such as John Adams, Philip Glass, and William Bolcom, and has attracted a wide range of audiences, further solidifying Pacific Symphony's reputation as a leader in promoting American music.

During Forsyte’s tenure, Pacific Symphony became the only orchestra in California to receive a James Irvine Foundation New California Arts Fund Grant. This supported the creation of the Building Communities Concert Series, featuring cultural celebrations such as Lunar New Year, Nowruz, and a free family festival around the Lantern Festival, further expanding the Symphony’s engagement with the region’s diverse communities.

Pacific Symphony has expanded its community engagement programs, creating transformative initiatives like arts-X-press (a middle school arts immersion camp), Heartstrings (a partnership with 47 nonprofit organizations), the free Lantern Festival, Strings for Generations in partnership with the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center, and Santa Ana Strings. Under Forsyte’s guidance, the Symphony's award-winning music education offering, the Freida Belinfante Class Act program, has grown from 7 to 30 schools.

A strategic priority during Forsyte’s tenure has been the expansion of the Pacific Symphony Youth Ensembles program. This initiative now includes four distinct groups: Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra, Pacific Symphony Youth Wind Ensemble, Pacific Symphony Santiago Strings, and Pacific Symphony Youth Concert Band. Together, these ensembles serve over three hundred students annually, offering exceptional training and performance opportunities for young musicians across Southern California. The program’s transformative impact is demonstrated by the high rate of students accepted into leading music conservatories and universities.

Under Forsyte’s leadership, Pacific Symphony has maintained a balanced budget for more than two decades while significantly increasing its fundraising efforts. Contributed income has grown fivefold, and the organization has raised an additional $35 million for its endowment during this period.

Forsyte’s contributions to the arts have been widely recognized. He has been honored with the Helen M. Thompson Award from the American Symphony Orchestra League and the Helena Modjeska Cultural Legacy Award by Arts Orange County. He currently serves on the Chief Executive Roundtable at UC Irvine and the boards of Arts Orange County and Orange County Music and Dance.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

LaVal Brewer is the President & CEO of South County Outreach in Irvine, CA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing hunger and homelessness by helping people help themselves. With over 30 years of experience in nonprofit management and more than a decade in executive leadership, LaVal is a seasoned expert in board development, strategic planning facilitation, and fostering high-functioning teams.

LaVal's journey in the nonprofit sector began at age 16 when he took a part-time summer job with Culver City Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department, igniting his passion for community service. Growing up in South Los Angeles, his middle-class upbringing instilled in him an appreciation for stability and the importance of giving back.

For 21 years, LaVal held leadership roles in Southern California YMCAs, including nearly a decade as Executive Director of three large branch facilities. His innovative leadership and commitment to community development propelled his success in those roles. Later, as Executive Director of Playworks Southern California, LaVal championed the transformative power of play in schools. At OneOC, he drove organizational growth through corporate partnerships and employee engagement as Director of Business Development and Partnerships.

Since joining South County Outreach, LaVal has spearheaded transformative initiatives, such as reimagining the Food Pantry into a welcoming, grocery store-like environment. His vision includes creating partnerships with cities, funders, and corporations to provide rent and utility assistance while empowering families to break free from the cycle of hunger and homelessness.

In addition to his professional achievements, LaVal is a trusted facilitator of The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, helping boards and leadership teams strengthen trust, communication, and effectiveness. His skills in strategic planning and executive coaching are sought after by organizations looking to align their vision with impactful outcomes.

LaVal holds a bachelor's degree in Human Services from Springfield College and is deeply involved in his community. He has served as an Elder at the Presbyterian Church of the Master in Mission Viejo and contributes his leadership as a member of the Board of the Orange County Continuum of Care (CoC) and the Public Law Center. He also serves as a Commissioner for the City of Mission Viejo Planning Commission.

LaVal resides in Mission Viejo with his wife and three daughters, whose love and inspiration fuel his passion for building stronger communities.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Gregg Hemphill is the CEO of Nexbelt, LLC, a leader in premium belts and accessories. After graduating from the College of William and Mary, where he played on the golf team, Gregg worked in a variety of roles until 2001, when he met John Ashworth as he was starting a new golf brand with Quiksilver. Gregg joined the brand and worked there until 2006, later moving to tMax Gear as VP of Product. At tMax, Gregg oversaw global accessories for TaylorMade/Adidas Golf, including golf bags, gloves, and headwear.

In 2011, he joined Oakley as Director of Men’s Apparel, overseeing surf, snow, training, golf, and lifestyle categories. Gregg was later recruited back to Callaway Golf by his former CEO to oversee global accessories and licensing and eventually became the GM of Ogio, a brand Callaway had acquired.

In 2021, Gregg was recruited to Nexbelt, where he has led the company’s growth, including the acquisition of Lejon Leatherwood’s, a maker of leather belts and accessories with production in Corona, CA.

Gregg enjoys spending his free time running, surfing, and playing golf. He grew up in Newport Beach and has been married to his wife, a teacher at JSerra High School, for 28 years. Together, they have two sons: one pursuing a PhD in Organic Chemistry at UNC and the other studying finance as a senior at USC.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Meg Treat, APR is a public relations agency leader, running industry professional, entrepreneur, and educator. She is the owner and CEO of Treat Public Relations, the endurance event industry's premier public relations and strategic communications partner. Her award-winning firm represents some of the largest endurance sports events in the United States.

Meg founded Treat PR in 2016, looking to unite her passion for her profession with her passion for endurance sports. Meg is an avid endurance athlete whose running resume includes seven 26.2-mile marathons and a 31-mile ultra marathon.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Since founding Powerhouse+Co. in 2015, Kristin has advanced its standing as one of Orange County’s premier agencies by highlighting innovation, thought leadership and entrepreneurism. She has continued to reimagine the firm’s approach to PR, influencer and social media programs to tell powerful client stories. Last year, Kristin redefined what it means for Powerhouse+Co. to be sought for its industry expertise, recognizing the agency could accelerate client growth by leveraging generalist PR knowhow and wide-ranging communications proficiencies to engage with new clients in unique sectors, including technology. This shift yielded the most diverse client roster in company history, plus impressive revenue growth.

Beyond growing the agency, Kristin has fostered a transformative culture defined by creativity, development and achievement. In many ways, she has molded Powerhouse in her own likeness. It’s an upbeat, innovative, high-energy workplace where team meetings yield productivity and laughs, unique personalities are always welcome, and collaboration is ubiquitous. With Kristin at the helm, Powerhouse+Co. is a dynamic organization that’s greater and more impactful than the sum of its individual parts.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Alison Lehmann Edwards is the CEO of the nonprofit organization Groundswell, she has been involved with the organization since 1998, serving as the director for the BRIDGES Safe and Respectful Schools Program, then Deputy Director of the organization before becoming CEO in 2018. Ali has degrees in Ethnic Studies, American Studies and Cultural Studies.

Groundswell is the organization that tracked and reported hate activity for the County of Orange and produced their annual hate activity report for 30+ years. The non-profit now focuses its work on bringing diverse people together to co-create belonging in OC classrooms, courtrooms, board rooms living rooms and beyond.

In her downtime, Ali enjoys playing soccer, going camping and getting into good trouble with her partner Chris and children Ellie and Sam.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Sohail Sadeghi is the founder and principal of Atlantis Tax Group & Financial Services, a firm revolutionizing the tax industry by providing strategic tax planning services that go beyond traditional preparation. With over a decade of experience in both the public and private sectors, Sohail is committed to helping clients achieve their financial goals through proactive and innovative tax strategies.

Sohail's career began as a tax preparer at Liberty Tax, followed by a role at Squar Milner, Orange County’s largest public accounting firm at the time, where he worked as a Tax & Audit Associate. There, he gained invaluable expertise in public accounting, auditing, and financial compliance. Transitioning to the private sector, Sohail held high roles in finance at various private firms. His work focused on corporate accounting, tax optimization, and financial analysis, helping corporations streamline operations and achieve tax efficiency.

In 2023, he founded Atlantis Tax Group & Financial Services to deliver personalized and comprehensive tax and financial solutions for individuals and businesses. Sohail has extensive experience advising clients in diverse industries, including real estate, construction, and financial services. He specializes in tax strategies, entity structuring, and leveraging accounting tools like QuickBooks and Oracle NetSuite to drive operational efficiency.

A strong advocate for proactive tax planning, Sohail’s advisory services include guiding clients on tax-efficient investments such as cost segregation studies, bonus depreciation, and payroll structuring for W-2 employees or 1099 contractors.

His focus extends beyond tax preparation, as he helps clients navigate complex financial scenarios like 401(k) withdrawals, retirement planning, and entity structuring to align with long-term goals.

Sohail earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Cal Poly Pomona and an MBA from the University of California, Irvine (UCI). He is currently an Enrolled Agent and admitted to practice before the IRS, and he is also pursuing his CPA certification to further solidify his professional credentials.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Jasmina (Jass) Brooks is President, Electrophysiology, Johnson & Johnson MedTech (formerly Biosense Webster, Inc.), a global leader in the science, diagnosis and treatment of heart rhythm disorders.

Jass is a seasoned leader with more than 25 years of experience in the cardiovascular field, primarily focused on electrophysiology. She has accountability for setting the J&J MedTech Electrophysiology end-to-end global strategy as a leader in cardiac ablation, advancing its innovation agenda, and driving execution to position the organization for continued growth.

Previously, Jass was Vice President, Global Strategic Marketing, Biosense Webster, Inc. In this role, she worked with cross-functional and international teams to set the strategy and shape the company product pipeline to drive growth, market share, and profitability.

Having joined Biosense Webster in 2014, Jass held positions of increasing scope and responsibility in the Global Strategic Marketing Organization. Prior to joining Johnson & Johnson, Jass spent 15 years at GE Healthcare, where she held various roles in commercial marketing, global strategic marketing, product development and engineering in the US and EMEA. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from Louisiana Tech University.

Jass has dedicated her career to championing excellence in patient outcomes and solving unmet medical needs. She is a collaborative leader with a deep knowledge of the electrophysiology space, a track record of successfully driving growth and market leadership, as well as a deep commitment to developing talent and fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusivity.

In 2023, Jass was named as one of LA Times’ Healthcare Visionaries. In 2024, she was honored as one of Orange County Business Journal’s Women in STEM and was also celebrated as one of the publications 2024 “OC 500,” an annual Directory of Influence that honors the most impactful leaders, innovators, and changemakers in the OC business community.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Joshua Dominic is the Co-Founder & CEO of Dreamstar Lines , the premier overnight sleeper train service in North America. Joshua co-founded Dreamstar after experiencing the significant shortfalls in today’s travel and realizing other countries had a working solution, but one needing further development for the American market. By developing a luxury rail service that solves many of those issues, Dreamstar Lines was born.

Joshua is responsible for the company’s overall vision and direction, based on 13 years of experience in startups, finance, strategy and logistics. Prior to creating Dreamstar, Joshua served in the United States Air Force Reserves specializing in logistics and mobility before going on to graduate with a degree in Economics from Columbia University.

After a brief financial career focused on corporate strategy and acquisitions, Joshua transitioned to start-ups focused on business development for Darktrace and Cloudkitchens. Lastly, he was a partner and co-founder in Falcon Funds, a search fund focused on finding, acquiring and operating businesses in the lower-middle market.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Bita Safari is the founder and CEO of GIGO Clean Technology . GIGO Clean Technology provides a platform for an application that works like Uber for the cleaning industry. Starting from a small office in Santa Ana, California, the company plans to provide services nationwide by 2028.

Bita Safari is an effective leader with an extensive project management background. Under her vision and leadership, GIGO Clean is revolutionizing the cleaning industry. Born in Iran, living under a socially unjust system, experiencing war and revolutions, and witnessing many traumas, she experienced additional challenges when she emigrated to the United States.

As she acclimated to United States business norms, her personal life and career have been a roller coaster taking her up and down many challenging and complex paths. But she does not give up. “I am like the city of Venice, built out of desperation and survived unimaginable circumstances," says Bita. "We are both strong as ever, even with an uncertain future."

While Bita is a dedicated business leader, founder, and President of successful commercial cleaning company Simply Crystal Clean, she is also a devoted wife and a loving mother. She loves to spend time with her family and friends.

Additionally, Bita truly believes in giving back to society. “As we all have responsibilities toward ourselves and our family, we all have responsibilities toward the society that we live in and the environment,” Bita says. Safari has volunteered for an organization, Moms Against Poverty, that has been awarded the prestigious Jefferson Award and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Award for the past 15 years. Despite her busy life schedule, she has never passed on her duties as a volunteer helping others.

A chemical engineer, Bita's skill in management and leadership have been learned through hard work in top level management positions over the past twenty years at busy operations. These experiences have shaped her into a strong leader who knows how to overcome obstacles and challenges of business. She is a visionary entrepreneur, a hard worker, and a very disciplined individual. At the same time, she takes her role as a mother very seriously. Nothing is more important than her daughter to her. Residing in Southern California with her husband, daughter, and her German shepherd, she has a beautiful and happy family.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Bryan Crain is the President of Orange County Rescue Mission , Bryan’s entrepreneurial career began 28 years ago as an undergraduate at the University of Southern California. He co-founded what became the largest independent radio show prep company in the nation, serving over 2,000 radio morning shows with daily written and audio content. After selling the company in 2014, Bryan was hired as the Chief Operating Officer at Orange County Rescue Mission.

In his role as COO, Bryan led the development of diverse programs and facilities such as Tustin Veterans Outpost, Restoration Roasters, Double R Ranch, and emergency housing for human trafficking survivors. He was promoted to CEO in 2023.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Jennifer Strong is the founder of Cognitive Diagnostic Associates (CDA) , the largest special education company in the United States. An accomplished School Psychologist with specialized expertise in School Neuropsychological Assessment.

Boasting an illustrious background in the field, Jennifer has embraced the role of Board Member and Region 9 (IX) Representative for Orange County within the California Association of School Psychologists (CASP). Furthermore, she actively mentors aspiring School Psychologists through the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) mentorship program. She has pursued advanced post-graduate training in school neuropsychology, garnering the Diplomate distinction from the American Board of School Neuropsychology.

Raised in the diverse landscape of Alaska, Jennifer’s unique perspective is enriched by her upbringing alongside her father, Dr. Larry Reynolds, a distinguished Physician in the state of Alaska who earned legislative recognition for his remarkable contributions.

Her extensive experience in educational settings includes her recent leadership involvement in shaping policies and procedures for Special Circumstances Instructional Assistance (SCIA) at her previous district. She possesses a profound passion for Special Education Case Law and adeptly provides clients with expert guidance concerning their children’s Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Jennifer has exceptional expertise in ADHD/ADD, behavioral disorders, autism spectrum disorder, traumatic brain injuries, 504 plans, manifestation determinations, as well as comprehensive assessments of memory, attention, and learning.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Jennifer finds joy in skiing, gardening, and culinary exploration. A devoted mother and former athlete, she actively contributes to philanthropic initiatives, including her engagement with the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, membership/involvement with the 11-99 Foundation, and developing “Cans 2 the Curb” with her sons—a meaningful endeavor dedicated to giving back to the Special Education Department of their local school. Jennifer also participates in the Boy Scouts of America’s Wreaths for Veterans program with her sons. Furthermore, as the Chair/Head of the Scholarship Program for School Psychology in Graduate Schools, Jennifer is deeply committed to empowering and supporting aspiring school psychologists in their educational endeavors, through a focus on health, wellness, and balance.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Jay Rogers is an investment professional and entrepreneur with almost three decades in the financial services industry. His career began with such firms as Morgan Stanley, Wells Fargo and Bear Stearns and later transitioned to working full time with family offices and creating diverse investment portfolios. Alpha Strategies was established in 2009 by a group of highly experienced investment professionals with a shared belief that qualified investors are still underserved in their access to deep domain expertise in alternative investments generating consistently high levels of “pure” alpha. It has since grown into a diversified financial services company with specialties in alternative investment consulting and management.

Jay has been a trusted advisor to multiple family offices and is instrumental in syndicating private investment opportunities among family offices and institutional investors nationwide. These opportunities include real estate, private debt & equity, and venture capital.

Jay also acts as advisor to Native American Tribal Nations for economic development and investment opportunities. An advocate for tribal independence he has provided financial solutions to several tribes and is the founder of the Native Made Foundation, championing the purchase of goods and services originating on Native American Reservations.

Jay is also a frequent speaker at industry events on family office and alternative investment issues. He has appeared on CNN’s Your Money and is frequently quoted and interviewed for financial publications including the Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg News and NPR. He has presented to audiences at IMN, Opal Financial, IvyPlus, World Research Congress, Marcus Evans, Institutional Investor, and other investment conferences around the country. Jay is a guest lecturer at USC Marshall School of Business and provides expert witness services including testimony for litigation involving securities and investment industry matters.

Jay holds a BS from Northeastern University, is a graduate of the USMC Officer Candidate School in Quantico, VA and has completed graduate courses at UCLA and the Wharton School of Business at UPENN. He held multiple securities licenses and was a member of the CFA Institute and the CFA Society of Orange County (CFAOC). Currently residing in Ladera Ranch with his wife and children, he is active in his local community as President of the Board of Directors for Ladera Ranch Community Services (LARCS), a community services organization. Mr. Rogers is also on the boards of Family Office Association, Altriarch Capital Partners, and several private companies.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Chris Skaling is the visionary founder and CEO of NAITIVE, an innovative AI Consulting Agency that is transforming the consulting landscape. With over 15 years of experience in AI integration and cloud transformations, Chris is at the forefront of pioneering AI-driven solutions that redefine how businesses operate.

At NAITIVE, Chris leads a team dedicated to offering a fresh, personalized approach to consulting. One notable achievement includes developing an AI Agent team for a real estate firm. This groundbreaking solution autonomously scans specialized data to identify target clients, generates personalized marketing material, and translates complex data queries into real-time insights—all through natural language processing. Such innovations empower clients to make informed decisions with unprecedented speed and precision, exemplifying NAITIVE's commitment to transforming industries.

Chris's journey from architecting data solutions for global tech giants to founding NAITIVE reflects his passion for challenging the status quo and delivering exceptional value. Under his leadership, NAITIVE aims to be the only partner businesses need to integrate and leverage artificial intelligence, ensuring they stay ahead in the new era of AI.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Polina Kratova is the Founder and CEO of RiseUP Stars , a pioneering organization in youth enrichment and education. With over a decade of experience working with tech-enabled startups and building impactful programs, Polina has dedicated her career to empowering young minds through innovative, hands-on learning experiences.

RiseUP Stars is a leading provider of enrichment programs that span before, during, and after-school settings, as well as structured recess and out-of-school camps. Under Polina’s leadership, the organization has expanded to reach thousands of students in California, offering unique opportunities in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math), wellness, and mindfulness education.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Tom Wood is a seasoned entrepreneur and industry expert with a passion for helping business maximize profits and increase their bottom line. As the CEO of Silent Streams, he has successfully saved companies millions of dollars and increased employees' benefits at the same time. With a keen eye for innovation and a commitment to excellence, Tom is dedicated to changing the way business owners approach cost containment and risk mitigation.

Silent Streams is an industry leader and completely revolutionizes the way businesses operate by providing innovative solutions in cost containment and value-added services. Our cutting-edge technology and expert team help businesses dramatically increase bottom line profits and create healthier and more profitable work environments for their employees. Whether you're a small business owner or a large corporation, we can help you achieve your goals and drive growth without risk or financial investment.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Known as The Transformational Book Coach for “cause publishing,” Susie Schaefer believes that books are the gateway to creating a movement. Whether writing a book helps an author heal past trauma or raise awareness for social change, Susie empowers storytellers to be part of the global conversation and create a ripple effect for humanity, particularly when an author shares their own story in connection to their mission, message, and community.

Susie's bestselling books include A Path to Purpose: Seven Inspired Stories to Discover Your True North, The Pivot Project: Stories to Inspire the Shift in Your Life, Your First Book: The Publishing Guide for New Authors, and The Escape: How to Leave Your Abusive Relationship Safely (International Impact Book Award).

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Shannon Chapman graduated from Mission Viejo High School in 2000, making her way to SDSU days before her 18th birthday. She wanted to be a teacher, so she majored in English & had her BA by 2004. She was 21 when she graduated college & set out to become a teacher abroad. Instead, she welcomed a baby boy at age 23 with half of her credential completed & a job as a substitute teacher. This was not exactly how she had imagined her pathway into teaching, but she knew she would somehow, someway, accomplish her goals.

Fast forward a few years & she was living in Orange County again, working as an executive assistant for Pepsico. She was learning the beverage industry, but she was also learning how to run a business. A year or so later, she moved on to Pepsi Bottling Group, learning sales, marketing & anything she could about small-format business. She became the number one sales rep in CA, breaking records and exceeding quotas.

From there she took over a dive bar for a friend who wanted out of the bar business. She took everything she knew and translated that into an extended “beverage” career as a bar owner, quadrupling sales within two months. She started baking cookies to sell in the bar & turned her side hobby into a multimillion-dollar manufacturing & distribution company for 15 years.

Then, she was ready to transition. She moved back to Mission Viejo to be closer to her parents when her father was diagnosed with Leukemia & Lymphoma. Now a single mother with three boys & a new house, Shannon had a desire to try something new. The goal was to start a business where she could still coach little league, make good money & prioritize her boys. Construction was a perfect fit & fell in her lap when she began construction in her backyard. She’s always loved construction & comes from a big family of men & women who are very handy & construction-oriented.

Shannon was working from home, so she became a student of the construction process from beginning to end. She made friends with the General Contractor, took over the construction of her house, then asked him for a job as a project manager of his construction company. She proved she could do the job by bidding a handful of jobs, landing those jobs, then completing the work as a project manager—all while starting a new company in the self-storage world.

Self-storage allowed her to do the construction she enjoyed, work the hours she wanted (mostly from home) & build generational wealth for her boys. She learned everything she could, built her team & took on a $17M ground-up development in AZ as her first project. Shannon is now a developer, doing her own projects as well as a vendor of services for other development companies.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Jenn Quader is President & CEO of The Smart Agency , a 30-year-old company she acquired in 2018 that is now the leading professional communications firm for commercial real estate and financial services companies in the United States. Her personal mission is to empower the next generation of confident communicators by sharing her voice in the global movement toward empathetic and human-first business leadership.

Jenn honed her skills working on behalf of major companies such as Fox/MGM Entertainment, Ford Motor Company, Michelin, and Mazda before specializing in commercial real estate. Today, in addition to leading her company, she is a poet, author, and now a recording artist with her debut vocal jazz album called “Love, In All Its Forms.”

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

John Cervenka is the CEO and a co-founder of Starfish Social Media Inc. Starfish is a fast growing global social media platform that enables users to promote their good, connect with others that share common interests, and easily connect with the causes they about. Prior to launching Starfish, John was an Institutional Advisor with Morgan Stanley. Before joining Morgan Stanley, John was a producer and writer with FOX Studios, Sony Television, Spike TV and Game Show Network. John attended the University of Southern California and the Thunderbird School of Global Management. He and his wife, Kerry, live in Southern California and have 4 children.

Steven Mott, COO and co-founder of Starfish Social Media Inc., is an experienced business professional with a focus on Real Estate Construction and Management. He has worked with Williams-Sonoma and Dole Foods, among other top-tier companies. Founding Starfish Social Media is the result of Steven’s desire to create a legacy and make a difference with his time and treasures. Steven believes in the power of giving back through supporting the American Himalayan Foundation, his alma mater UC Berkeley and other nonprofits with needs both big and small.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Ian Tonks is an expert EOS Implementer at EOS Worldwide . Through the Entrepreneurial Operating System™, Ian Tonks combines timeless business principles with a set of simple, practical, real-world tools to help entrepreneurs get what they want from their businesses, enabling them to crystalize their vision, instill discipline and accountability throughout the organization, and build healthy, functional and collaborative work teams.

His journey to EOS began in the late 1990s, when he spent seven years running a 650-employee company that provided youth sports programming to a variety of professional sports organizations, including Major League Soccer, the NFL and Jack Nickalus’ Golden Bear International.

After getting married in 2006, he traded the grind of 100,000+ flight miles a year for the short commute to a private Bay Area University, where he led several capital fundraising campaigns and saw the institution through its transition to NCAA division 2.

In 2009, he launched a business development practice to pursue his true passion and purpose: helping business leaders plan more strategically, grow more reliably, and maximize the talent in their companies. His EOS light bulb moment occurred in early 2015, when a friend and mentor recommended he read the book “Traction,” by Gino Wickman. He instantly connected with the simplicity and practicality of its transformative message and seized the opportunity to create his own EOS practice.

Today, he’s an expert EOS Implementer with 750-plus sessions of real-world experience across an array of industries. Fusing three decades of executive and entrepreneurial experience, he customizes EOS’s proven system to each client’s unique situation and needs.

To connect with Ian, visit: https://www .linkedin.com/in/ian-tonks-a7977275/

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Sebastian Zelger, born in 1988 in Germany, is the CEO of Liqui Moly USA . His early experiences with low-paying and physically exhausting vacation jobs during high school fueled his determination to pursue higher education and a successful career. While studying, Zelger gained hands-on experience at prominent companies like Porsche AG in Stuttgart and Carl Zeiss in Aalen.

In 2014, Sebastian joined Liqui Moly as a junior export sales manager, where he underwent two years of intensive training. His hard work and dedication paid off when he was appointed CEO of Liqui Moly USA. At the start of his leadership, the company had just 10 employees and annual sales of $10 million. Over the span of eight years, Zelger successfully grew the business, expanding the team to over 70 professionals and increasing sales to more than $100 million annually.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Scott Cannon is the CEO of OC-based BigRentz , a leading procurement software company that solves long-standing challenges in construction by streamlining equipment procurement and improving logistics.

The platform connects contractors to over 14,000 rental yards and 6,000 rental companies across the U.S., reducing inefficiencies in a traditionally fragmented industry. With BigRentz’s expansive network, 90% of job sites nationwide are reachable within 30 minutes, helping contractors optimize operations, cut transportation costs, and enhance project efficiency.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Curtis McCullom is a Human Potential Coach, Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, speaker, and trainer with over 35 years of experience in self-improvement and personal development.

As the CEO of the Curtis McCullom Group LLC, Bespoke Human Potential Coaching, Curtis helps individuals and entrepreneurs break through mindset blocks, increase income, and find fulfillment through his L.G.E.T. Mindset™ (Learning, Growing, Expanding, and Transforming) framework.

Certified in hypnotherapy, Master Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP), Master Mental Emotional Release ® (MER), and Executive Coach, Curtis integrates these modalities into his coaching programs to help clients achieve profound transformations in life and business. Passionate about empowering others to become the best version of themselves, Curtis is dedicated to teaching the principles of personal growth, transformation, and alignment with core values.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

For more than 25 years, Bill Wilhelm has played a pivotal role in helping shape R.D. Olson Construction to become one of the nation’s leading general contractors, commemorating 40 years in business this year. Under Wilhelm’s leadership, R.D. Olson Construction has earned an award-winning reputation across the Western U.S. and Hawaii for projects spanning hospitality, multi-unit, adaptive reuse, education and senior living. The firm has been repeatedly recognized by Engineering News-Record as a Top 400 Construction Company Nationwide and Top 40 General Contractor in California.

Wilhelm has spearheaded some of R.D. Olson Construction’s most iconic projects and continues to cultivate the company’s nationwide reputation as a trusted, relationship-focused builder. Notable projects completed under his leadership include Lido House, Los Angeles’ NoMad Hotel, Irvine Spectrum Marriott, Paséa Hotel and Spa, Chapman University’s Reeves Hall and Atria Senior Living, among many others. Wilhelm’s hands-on leadership approach and forward-thinking industry expertise has made him a highly sought-after speaker for events such as The Lodging Conference and Bisnow. He also frequently contributes his insights to Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, GlobeSt, Construction Today, Hotel Business Magazine and other prominent business and commercial real estate publications.

In addition to leading R.D. Olson Construction, Wilhelm has dedicated his career to giving back to the local community by volunteering, fundraising and building homes alongside his employees for Habitat for Humanity, Olive Crest, HomeAid, Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation and OC United. His team-oriented leadership and civic-minded approach has helped garner the company numerous awards and recognitions, including “The Olive Crest Leadership Award,” Orange County Business Journal’s “Best Places to Work” and OneOC’s “Civic 50” – a coveted list of the top 50 philanthropic companies in Orange County. In 2019, Wilhelm was recognized by Boy Scouts of America, Orange County Council, as a Men of Character Honoree.

Wilhelm graduated from California State University, Long Beach with a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering. He later went on to study at the University of Southern California, where he completed the university’s Management Development Program followed by Harvard University’s Executive Finance Program. He continues to strengthen the core of the company and attributes his leadership success to his ability to bring out the best in his associates, employees and project partners through a collaborative, team-oriented work environment.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Paul Brinkman has spent 15 years in management consulting, bringing expertise in Process Improvement, Cost Reduction, and Value Creation for his transportation consulting customers.

Paul recently purchased Trans-Solutions , a business focused on strategic planning and execution for clients' Supply Chain needs, creating efficiency in modality and transportation, as well as leading carrier sourcing negotiations and operational optimization initiatives.

In addition to his expertise in Supply Chain, Paul has also assisted customers with their Print, Mail & Packaging needs. This includes corrugated, non-corrugated and bottling solutions.

Paul holds a Bachelor of Science, Business Administration from University of Southern California with an emphasis in Financial Analysis & Valuation.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Richard Cabrera is an Executive Vice President at Umpqua Bank and the Head of Commercial Banking for Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho Nevada, Oregon, Utah and Washington. He has been with Umpqua since 2016 and leads the bank’s asset-based lending division, debt capital markets, and corporate banking operations. Under his leadership, the bank has expanded and growth the Commercial Banking division. Prior to his time at Umpqua, Cabrera worked for California Bank and Bank of America in a variety of leadership roles.

A fourth-generation Californian with a lifelong affinity for numbers, Cabrera is dedicated to serving the vibrant business communities within California and Umpqua’s broader footprint. He is a graduate of San Diego State University. Cabrera and his wife, Karen, reside in Southern California. They have three adult children and two grandchildren.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Julie Keyes is a Business Consultant and Certified Exit Planner based in Central Minnesota. Her company, KeyeStrategies has worked with business owners of private companies since 2012. Julie’s been an entrepreneur herself for many years and has won numerous national awards for her work in exit planning. She a member of the Exit Planning Institute’s Leadership Council and faculty, as well as a contributor to its online Academy. She instructs business owners and advisors from across the country on topics related to exit planning and business transition readiness.

Julie's speaking and teaching engagements for various professional organizations include but are not limited to: Exit Planning Institute, Independent Electrical Contractors Association, MN State Bar Association, MN Society of CPAs, NAIFA, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Edward Jones, Financial Planners Association, National Association of Women Business Owners, RBC, Merrill, Independent Business Brokers Association, Lincoln Financial Services, Midwest Business Brokers and Intermediaries, LeClair Group, Principal Financial Group and Frost Bank.

Julie’s also an author and podcaster. You can find the 2 nd Edition of her book “Poised for Exit” on Amazon and Barnes and Noble, and her podcast of the same name on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, and Google Podcasts.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Brett Buettner is the President of Buettner Insurance Agency , a full-spectrum employee benefits firm located in Orange County, California.

Brett helps companies grow, maintain top talent, and reach their goals by providing boutique employee benefit solutions to his clients alongside HR technologies and compliance tools. He is a 3rd Generation broker, has been on the Board of OCAHU (now called CAHIP-Orange County), and is a select broker to be a part of carrier roundtables to participate in discussions centered around the insurance market, what clients want and need from the insurance carriers, and the future of healthcare.

Buettner Insurance Agency, Inc. has been serving clients since 1992, and has achieved multiple excellence statuses with insurance carriers.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

David Bagga is the CEO of the David Bagga Company , founded in 2013. Since its inception, David has successfully placed over 600 candidates in medical device sales jobs and is ranked in the top 1% of sales recruiters across the U.S. on LinkedIn.

David is the author of "A Millennial's Guide to Breaking into Medical Device Sales" and holds the title of the most recommended medical device sales recruiter on LinkedIn, with over 270 recommendations year-to-date. In addition to his recruitment work, he provides a 1:1 coaching program for candidates seeking to enter the medical device sales field and is currently developing a course, scheduled for release in 2025.

Before his career in recruitment, Bagga played college basketball at the University of Arizona from 2005 to 2009. He went on to play professionally in the British Basketball League in England during the 2009-2010 season as part of FIBA.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Ajay Prasad, Founder and CEO of RepuGen (founded in 2016), is a healthcare marketing leader passionate about aligning online reviews with patient satisfaction. He recognized a critical gap – most healthcare providers' online reviews don't reflect their high internal satisfaction ratings. This disconnect hurts businesses, as over 80% of patients rely on online reviews when choosing a doctor.

Ajay established RepuGen to bridge this gap, empowering healthcare providers to showcase their excellence and attract patients seeking top-notch care. Previously, Ajay founded GMR Web Team (2004), a thriving digital marketing agency for healthcare providers.

Ajay believes patient satisfaction, stellar reviews, and a strong web presence are the cornerstones of a successful healthcare business. This philosophy guides his work at RepuGen, ensuring clients not only shine online but also prioritize patient experience.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Shane Silsby has 25 years of experience influencing strategic planning, public policy, organizational development, and the delivery of major infrastructure projects. His expansive career includes executive leadership roles in the private sector and with government agencies across the country, including his last public sector post as the Director of Orange County Public Works.

As the current CEO of Silsby Strategic Advisors , he is now focused on helping public agencies develop creative solutions to complex challenges, including strategies around federal funding acquisition and implementation.

Mr. Silsby holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in civil engineering from Michigan State University, is a current member of the American Public Works Association national government affairs committee and has recently authored and published the book “Managing for Meteors: Preparing Local Government Leaders Before the Impact.”

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Angie Rowe serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of Beyond Blindness . Through their mission-focused programs, Beyond Blindness empowers children with visual impairments and other disabilities to achieve their fullest potential. Beyond Blindness envisions a world where all children, no matter their abilities are equipped to live full and rewarding lives. Angie is committed to the integrative and comprehensive Journey of Care provided by Beyond Blindness, giving families the security of knowing they will be with them throughout their child’s lifetime in whatever way they need or want them to be. Previously, Angie served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Global Genes, a rare disease patient advocacy organization.

Angie believes in the power of collaboration and serves on the boards of several agencies in Orange County. She currently serves as treasurer and is a founding board member of CAABVI (California Agencies for the Blind and Visually Impaired), the Orange County regional representative and Treasurer of the board for CAPSES (California Private Special Education Schools), (OCDC) Orange County Disability Coalition, and is a member of OneOC's Non-Profit Advisory Board. She is also a graduate of the highly selective Octane OC Non-Profit Accelerator program. She is a past President of the Junior League of Orange County and through that found both her passion for nonprofit work and training and mentoring young women. She still actively volunteers as Chapter Advisor for Alpha Chi Omega’s Delta Psi Chapter at UC Santa Barbara as well as formally mentors Experian executives as part of Octane’s Women Leaders programming.

Angie has a Master of Science in Public Policy and a Certificate in Industrial Systems Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Resource Management from Penn State University. She has two grown sons, Colin and Brady, who reside together and are young professionals in Phoenix. She, her husband Bob, and rescue dog, Urbi are 25-year residents of Aliso Viejo, CA.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Mike Myers, is CEO, Southern Pacific at McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. A long-time McCarthy partner, Mike Myers became the Chief Executive Officer for the Southern Pacific region in 2024. In his role, he leads approximately 1,500 partners across four locations in Southern California and Nevada. His responsibilities include overseeing all operational functions that support sustainable growth and a comprehensive, client-focused approach to business. Under his leadership, the region has grown significantly, increasing service lines through enhanced preconstruction and construction services. Mike is known for driving a culture of ownership through his leadership, encouraging innovative thinking and ideas.

An industry veteran, Mike has more than two decades of construction experience and a passion for giving back to the industry and community. Mike serves as a member of McCarthy Holdings’ executive committee and board. He also provides leadership to the Southern California’s Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) and the Orange County American Heart Association Board. In addition, Mike sits on the CHOC Foundation Cabinet and is a long-time supporter of the American Heart Association, JSerra Catholic High School, ACE Mentor Program, and Flags of Valor organizations.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Bonni Pomush is the Chief Executive Officer of Working Wardrobes . With much joy, Bonni is committed to putting her strengths to work by being of service to the community.

Bonni developed a great love and respect for research and data-based decision-making while earning her master’s degree in Family Resources and Human Development. Bonni brings over 25 years of leadership experience in government and non-profit agencies. Her research- and strengths-based leadership approach has resulted in the national accreditation of centers, turning around budgets from shortfalls to surpluses, and retaining high-quality employees by creating and implementing performance-based pay systems. In partnership with board members and volunteers, Bonni has secured over $6 million in capital campaign funds and $1 million from events and annual giving.

Originally from the East Valley suburbs of Phoenix, AZ, Bonni administered programs for 15 years in government agencies (the Kyrene School District, Arizona State University, and the City of Chandler). After making the move to Orange County, CA in 2009, she joined the nonprofit world at Temple Beth El of South Orange County: The Samueli Center for Progressive Judaism. Following Founder and 31-year CEO (Chief Executive Officer) Jerri Rosen’s retirement, Bonni became Working Wardrobes’ second-ever CEO in January 2022 and has focused her leadership on modernizing and preparing Working Wardrobes to scale. Since her arrival, she has been nominated for several awards (LA Times 2023 & 2024 Orange County Inspirational Women, OC Business Journal’s Women in Business 2023) and was touted by the OC Register as one of Orange County’s Most Influential People in 2023.

Bonni revels in creating and implementing strategic plans and sustainable systems, working with boards to accomplish a mission, developing and leading high-performing teams, engaging diverse stakeholders, and producing measurable results. When she’s not hard at work, Bonni can be found paddle-boarding, walking, playing mah-jongg, hitting balls on the tennis court, traveling, or enjoying quality time with family and friends.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

As a Soul Stylist & CEO of Style Awakenings , Amanda is the go-to expert in the fashion world helping CEOs, entrepreneurs, celebrities, TV show hosts and career professionals dress for and create their next level. Her approach reveals your inner essence of certainty, self-love, prosperity, and magnetism which is then recreated through style, with the end result being your authentic style expression to attract the success and lifestyle you want.

Amanda Weil created “Style Awakenings” to help her clients find their inner authenticity and project it through their own unique style to create harmony, balance and a powerful connection between their inner being and exterior style. Her soulful styling process empowers her clients to access confidence and love for themselves, creating new passion, success and prosperity in their lives.

Prior to becoming a stylist, Amanda spent 14 years in Corporate America in marketing and advertising. She began her career in advertising agencies planning traditional and digital media placement for movie releases for Sony Pictures as well as game and console launches for Sony PlayStation. She then shifted to the publisher side working as a senior executive for Yahoo!, Tremor Video and Sony Television managing clients such as Activision, Paramount and Honda/Acura.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Jeff Goldenhersh is the Founder & Chief Executive Officer of FindYourCrew, Inc. Jeff has deep experience in technology companies, building and managing teams, negotiation and capital allocation.

After graduating from Washington University in St. Louis in 2011, he moved to China, where he became proficient in Mandarin. He returned to the United States to attend Stanford Law School, where he graduated with a J.D. in 2016.

In 2021, following a legal career with a focus on private equity work that started at global powerhouse Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, he moved to San Francisco to join PingPong Payments, a profitable fintech unicorn that did +$100M in annual revenue.

At PingPong, Jeff became the general counsel of PingPong’s international business and served as a member of the global senior management team across the United States and Europe. He built and managed an 11-lawyer legal department operating on 3 continents covering over 100 countries, and helped build and supervise teams across the human resources and business development functions in the United States and Europe, where PingPong had more than 60 employees. Jeff left PingPong in early 2024 to start Crew.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Jessica Hubbard serves as the CEO of Casa Youth Shelter , a nonprofit located in Los Alamitos, California that serves children experiencing abuse, homelessness, sex trafficking, and/or suicidal ideation.

Jessica has been working with youth for over 20 years and uses her own personal experience with abuse and neglect to let kids know they have the power to shape their own brighter futures. She has a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership and a Juris Doctor Degree with an emphasis in criminal law.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Breene Murphy is the president of Carbon Collective Investing , a climate focused investment advisor. They create sustainable investment portfolios for individuals and employer retirement plans.

To support portfolios, Carbon Collective Investing has launched two investment funds on the Nasdaq Exchange in New York, a climate solutions equity ETF with the ticker CCSO and a short duration green bond fund with the ticker CCSB. They also launched ClimateSmart target date fund series.

Breene has been on the advisory board for USC's Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies on Catalina Island. Breene lives in Laguna Beach with his wife and two sons. He surfs regularly, including in Laguna's Annual Brook Street contest, and he loves great books!

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Chris Fitkin helps businesses build, grow, and monetize their technology. With 20 years of engineering leadership experience, he has honed his expertise in developing innovative solutions and leading successful teams. Throughout his career, Chris has served as head of engineering and CTO for VC-backed startups and enterprise scale engineering organizations, playing key roles in driving technological advancements and business growth.

As a founding partner at MetaCTO , Chris focuses on mobile app development and fractional CTO services, helping non-technical business owners introduce technologies, including AI capabilities and proprietary tech, into their companies. MetaCTO provides seasoned technical expertise and strategic guidance, allowing startups to scale their technical capabilities up and down as needed. Chris and his co-founder, Garrett Fritz, have supported companies in raising over $50 million, achieving multiple 8 and 9-figure exits, and launching over 100 market-ready products.

Outside of work, Chris is an ultramarathon runner, participating in the Catalina 50 mile footrace around the island every year. He also has three young kids and coaches youth soccer. He’s pretty busy 😂

Chris is dedicated to providing practical technology solutions and strategic guidance to help clients achieve their business goals. His passion for empowering startups and transforming ideas into scalable, market-ready products drives his commitment to excellence at MetaCTO.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Bradley Ketchel is the founder and CEO of Ketchel Axle Systems , a leader in the development of advanced electric axles for commercial and industrial vehicles. With a background in powertrain development and over 25 years of experience in the automotive industry, Bradley has been instrumental in pioneering sustainable transportation solutions. His dedication to innovation has led to the creation of the eRhino and eBadger electric axles, setting new standards in performance and efficiency. Bradley's visionary leadership continues to drive Ketchel Axle Systems towards a greener and more efficient future in mobility.

When not spending time with his wife Melissa and their 5 children, Brad enjoys weightlifting, snowboarding, watersports, woodworking and most anything that poses a challenge.

Bradley holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Western Michigan University, MS in Engineering Management from Penn State University, and holds 15 design patents in powertrain design.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Ena Hull is a TIGER 21 Chair for Newport Beach and an accomplished CEO/COO Executive, investor, and entrepreneur renowned for her leadership in highly regulated sectors such as private equity backed For-Profit Vocational Education, Higher Ed Technology, and Healthcare Workforce Development.

With a career spanning over three decades, she excels in driving operational excellence and enhancing customer experiences through streamlined processes and leveraged technology. Most recently, she secured the coveted role of becoming a TIGER 21 Chair for Newport Beach where she curates a confidential space for ultra-high-net-worth individuals to share insights and navigate complex business and personal challenges associated with wealth creation.

She also serves as an Executive Advisor to private equity firms and private investors whose portfolio companies focus on healthcare workforce development and education technology and she is also the Chair of the Higher Education Consumer Finance Council, leveraging her expertise in student finance, nursing education, M&A and higher education technology.

Ena's extensive board experience includes tenures with Legacy Education Inc. and Unitek Learning, where she played integral roles in strategic growth and successful exits. Recognized as an Exceptional Women Awardee with the Exceptional Women Alliance Foundation and has been keynote speaker at various industry conferences discussing her thoughts on career education where she advocates for innovative pathways like micro-credentials and apprenticeships for career success.

Her journey from financial aid administration to CEO/COO roles underscores her commitment to innovation and excellence in every facet of her career.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Sandy and Steven Lieberman, co-founders of the Artemis Defense Institute , combined their distinct passions and expertise to create a unique training institution. After their eldest child went to college in 2011, Sandy transitioned from her academic coaching business to focus on educating people in new ways. Meanwhile, Steven, dissatisfied with his corporate counsel role, sought to merge his lifelong passion for guns and hunting with his professional skills.

They discovered a video-based simulation training system used by law enforcement and saw potential for civilian training. After a compelling demonstration in Arizona, they set up an introductory system at home, which received enthusiastic feedback from friends. This led to the establishment of their first training facility just three months later, equipped with advanced training systems.

Steven's role in the Army JAG Corps and his private law practice specializing in use-of-force defense complemented the institute's mission. Together, they have built Artemis into a renowned training center known for its exceptional curriculum and commitment to legal compliance. Their dedication to education and firearm safety has attracted nationwide attention, fostering a close-knit community where clients feel like family.

Sandy is the founder and CEO of Artemis Group Inc., while Steven serving as “counselor at arms” for the Artemis Defense Institute, oversees legal requirements and curriculum development. Both are also founding members of Orion Training Systems, ensuring that legal principles are integrated into their innovative virtual reality-based simulators.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Kristen Brunzell, owner of Mavericks Insurance Agency, is a local Southern California Female Minority Business Owner. Her agency provides individual and group supplemental insurance products, as well as partners with other like-minded small business owners.

With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry and a certification in life, accident, and health insurance from the California Department of Insurance, Kristen also strongly supports DEI and believes it’s not just a box to check.

Kristen Brunzell’s passion lies in sharing her insights and guiding others to achieve their career goals and reach the next level of success. Kristen has the privilege of mentoring and coaching talented and motivated individuals committed to making the world of supplemental insurance easy to understand. Kristen specializes in new business development and employee benefits, leveraging strong social networking skills and relationships with brokers and clients. Additionally, she is dedicated to creating a work environment that fosters work-life balance, advancement opportunities, recognition, and financial security for her team and herself.

In Kristen’s free time, she spends as much time as she can with her niece and nephews: twins Liam and Eila, age 7, and Beau, age 2. They are the light of her life and what motivates Kristen to get up and do her part to make the world a better place.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

As the founder and CEO of MarketingOps.com , Mike Rizzo leads a pioneering platform dedicated to empowering Marketing Operations professionals. He spearheads the MO Pros community, a vibrant network that has grown by over 110 members monthly since 2019.

MarketingOps.com offers a comprehensive suite of resources and is the destination for current and aspiring Marketing Operations professionals to build careers through events like MOps-Apalooza, Summer Camp, and regional Local Chapters.

The MO Pros community on Slack is central to the offerings, complemented by a rich media suite with the Ops Cast podcast, community-led blog, and Martech solution demos. MarketingOps.com also provides templates, frameworks, and cutting-edge industry research.

Mike’s professional experience before founding MarketingOps.com spans a broad range of Marketing Operations, Martech, Growth Marketing, and Community-Building.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Tony Everett is a dedicated change-maker passionate about helping individuals unlock their full potential. With a career rooted in empowering others, Tony's journey is marked by a commitment to fostering growth and development in various arenas.

In 2009, Tony founded PureGame, a nonprofit organization that has transformed the lives of countless young individuals. Through a life and leadership skills program that utilizes sports as a platform to engage and inspire, Tony's innovative approach has given these kids the tools and confidence to succeed, leaving a lasting impact.

Building on his success with PureGame, Tony launched My Personal Best Coaching, a program designed to assist business professionals who feel stuck and seek clarity of purpose and meaning. Through personalized coaching, Tony helps individuals break through barriers and achieve their best selves.

This year, Tony joined Driven Leadership as the Director of Business Development, bringing his expertise in leadership training to the forefront. At Driven Leadership, Tony is instrumental in crafting impactful strategies that propel the organization and its clients forward.

Tony's "why" is deeply rooted in the belief that everyone is here for a reason, though many remain unattached and unengaged. His mission is to help people believe in themselves so they can step boldly into their brilliance.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Tony has been a dedicated youth soccer coach for 20 years. This commitment further demonstrates his belief in the power of guidance and mentorship, instilling hope and reassurance in the next generation. Tony

Everett's'multifaceted career reflects his unwavering dedication to empowering individuals and fostering a culture of curiosity, passion, and purpose. His work continues to make a significant difference in the lives of many, inspiring them to embrace their potential and achieve greatness.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Chris Simonsen is the Chief Executive Officer of the Orangewood Foundation . Chris started his professional career in various finance roles, from an accountant in a large accounting firm to CFO of Auto Club. Chris joined Orangewood in 2007 as the CFO and was promoted to CEO in 2014.

Chris loves that the Orangewood Foundation has a wide variety of programs that support youth in making improvements in their life. “Seeing a smile on a youth’s face after one of their success, no matter how large or small, it is always rewarding.”

Chris loves music. He has seen his favorite band, Metallica, over 20 times.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

With over 20 years of experience in digital marketing, product leadership, and business transformation, Alex Scoble of Westlake Media Labs helps mid-market companies achieve exponential growth and ROI through fractional growth and performance marketing consulting and strategic advisory roles.

Alex's background includes revamping VC Firms' operational structures, securing a monumental 13x revenue surge for PE properties, and orchestrating a notable $4MM YoY boost for an outdoor enterprise. Alex is also known to have collaborated with a leading multi-billion-dollar entity, catalyzing its valuation to $3 billion in 13 months.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Denice Hinden is the founder of Managance Coaching . Denice’s mission is guiding the experience and performance of senior leaders in nonprofit organizations and professional associations to more fulfillment and reward. Her clients are primarily executives, senior leaders, middle managers, and emerging leaders who work for social justice through developing affordable housing or supporting individuals with developmental disabilities to live meaningful lives as independently as possible. When these leaders fully tap into their change agent strengths, their organizations and teams elevate their mission delivery. Denice catalyzes healthy, positive leadership mindsets and organizational cultures with neuroscience-based coaching techniques, inclusive leadership practices, and transforming conversations.

Before consulting and coaching, Denice had an impactful 17-year career in nonprofit and public management, serving as program associate to executive director in children, youth, family service, and community development organizations. She enjoys living in Southern California with her business partner and husband, Larry, and their fur babies, Mercury and Blu Moon.

Denice is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, Nova Southeastern University, and Florida International University where she earned her Ph.D., She is a Master Certified Coach through the International Coach Federation.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Garnet Heraman is a serial entrepreneur and investor with 25 years experience at the intersection of innovation + technology. Originally from the island nation of Trinidad & Tobago, he was educated at Columbia University (BA), NYU (MBA) and The London School of Economics.

As a dotcom entrepreneur Garnet has had 3 exits, 1 of which was to a publicly traded company. As an investor, he is co-founder and managing partner of Aperture® Venture Capital, a seed stage fintech fund backed by 7 different Fortune 500 corporations. He is also an LP in several other VC funds such as NY InsurTech Fund II and the Berkeley Skydeck Fund.

Garnet is highly sought after as a startup technology expert, appearing in over 30 business publications and at events on 5 continents. He is currently finishing his first book, due out in early 2025.

Garnet lives in Monarch Beach, CA with his wife and one very spoiled rescue dog.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Delarman Technologies specializes in providing IT services, cybersecurity training and testing, custom application development, and much more, all while maintaining budgets companies can accommodate. Their mission is to become your technology partner and consultant for development, offering a prestige level of white glove service. Specializing in hospitality groups with exclusive memberships, Delarman educates and brings concepts to life while maintaining simple systems to ensure smooth operations.

Founder of Delarman Technologies Safa Movassaghi is an entrepreneur and board member with over 31 years of experience in technology, providing full service and support to clients. Safa is passionate about ensuring businesses become more successful and generate revenue using technology. Enjoying security and advanced technology, Safa has designed and patented security products. Safa is proud to have created a family business and watched it grow into an enterprise for the next generation.

Arman Movassaghi is the Vice President of Operations for Delarman Technologies. His mission is to create and implement seamless systems into businesses, allowing technology to become their biggest asset. In his role, Arman provides IT services for small to large organizations with the highest level of service to ensure a 100% operational business.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Stephan Erkelens leads RevHubOC as President, CEO, and co-founder, drawing on over 40 years of experience in launching and expanding businesses, social enterprises, and nonprofits. His journey began from a desire to infuse purpose into business practices within a predominantly capitalist landscape. Stephan envisioned creating sustainable revenue streams for social impact organizations, transforming them from traditional nonprofits. In the US, he recognized a gap between social innovators solving global challenges and entrepreneurs mastering scalable business models.

Stephan's expertise spans launching and scaling diverse ventures across industries, backed by deep insights in investment, finance, and banking. He has a track record of driving mergers and strategic partnerships, leveraging his cross-cultural fluency and global influence. Stephan's background includes extensive involvement in nonprofit management and large-scale fundraising, complemented by board roles spanning Central America, South America, and the US.

With a focus on philanthro-capitalism, Stephan has pioneered initiatives merging for-profit ventures to bolster nonprofit sustainability. Since founding RevHub in 2019, he has dedicated himself to addressing critical industry challenges in Orange County through innovative programs and enterprises.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Michelle Barto is the founder and creative director of Launch Creative, LLC a digital marketing firm focused on helping mission-driven companies grow their brand. She is passionate about innovation, good writing and design, and using data to guide marketing decisions. Founded in 2011, Launch Creative has helped hundreds of clients tell their brand story via their website and share their message with digital marketing and PR.

Michelle has a B.S. in Business Administration and a B.S. in Computer Information Science from Franciscan University of Steubenville. Michelle sits on the board of the Newport-Mesa Unified School District, Coastline Regional Occupation Program, Pretend City Children’s Museum, Orange County School Board’s Association, Harbor Council PTA, National Charity League Newport Chapter, and Balboa Bay Club Board of Governors.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Kayla Bartel is the co-founder and CEO of Humanity HR Consulting . As a California Certified HR Professional (PHR-CA) with 20 years of corporate experience and consulting for PEO clients; striking out on her own was a dream realized for Kayla. With experience in varying industries including hospitality, food & beverage, environmental, tech, aerospace, non-profits and beyond, she's learned the most important thing in business are the relationships that develop and thrive. Building long-lasting relationships with her clients is what she loves the most about her role at Humanity HR.

In her spare time, Kayla enjoys exploring sunny Southern California with her family. She loves to build and lead teams and her purpose in life is to guide organizations in building positive work environments.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Jim Madrid is an author, a world-renowned presenter, educator. He embarked on his professional journey at Nordstrom, starting as a shoe stocker at a tender age of 15. Over time, he has evolved into a widely respected thought leader, driven by the empowering belief that "Anything Is Possible." His profound curiosity about the nexus between the mind and performance led him to pen the acclaimed Amazon bestseller, "Get Over It and Get On With It,” which has earned a stellar five-star rating. His newest book, “It’s All About Mindset” is due out this winter.

Jim's indomitable mindset proved instrumental in triumphing over formidable adversaries, including stage 4 pancreatic and lung cancer, conquered within a mere year and a half. Beyond his literary accomplishments, Madrid serves as a corporate coach for Fortune 500 companies, imparting invaluable insights to executives and teams alike. He played a pivotal role in crafting the online curriculum "Win Forever" for Pete Carroll, the esteemed former coach of the Seattle Seahawks, showcasing his expertise in fostering excellence.

Moreover, Madrid's impact extends to the realm of professional sports, where he collaborates with athletes in the NFL, MLS, and NBA, guiding them towards peak performance. Currently, Jim Madrid holds a prestigious position on TCU’s Chancellor's Advisory Council, contributing his visionary perspectives to the university's strategic initiatives.

Jim is the CEO/Founder of Advance Sports Technology, a world-class mental fitness group and Co-Founder of Madrid Partners, enhancing corporate cultures by his process of personal professional and organizational development.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Hoda Mehr is CEO of Products That Count , a Silicon Valley-based nonprofit with the mission to help everyone build great products and a growing community of 500k+ product managers and leaders. She joined the company to grow and shape its next chapter by enabling Fortune 1000 companies to turn their product teams into a long-lasting competitive advantage through a full suite of upskilling and training programs.

Hoda is also the founder of Stock Card , an award-winning fintech platform that removes noise from fundamental investment research for individual investors with over 80K members.

Before her founder experience, Hoda worked on bringing several multi-million software products to market across multiple big tech companies. Hoda has lived and worked in several countries and cultures, including the Middle East, Canada, and the U.S. She is an Economist, has an MBA from the John Molson School of Business, and lives in Southern California.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Henry Park is the Founder & CEO of 3GC Group , an IT-managed service provider, Co-Founder & Executive Partner of Pandoblox , an advanced technology development company, and Chief Effectuator of Guerrilla Community Movement, a non-profit organization.

Henry infuses a business approach to technology management and agile business consulting that helps transform companies into the data age. Focusing on the unique needs and wants of the business as a holistic living entity, his vision is to change the way technology is both sold and delivered to clients. Having experience in deal-making, executive management, architecting, and finance modeling, his approach has been utilized by both enterprises and SMBs around technologies in blockchain, AI, cloud, and cybersecurity.

Henry has a BS in Economics and a minor in Psychology from UC Irvine and an Executive MBA from Tuck University. Rooted in the Kundalini yogic framework of existence, he looks at personal, family, business, spiritual, and philanthropic efforts as one integrated way of living.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

CEO of USWC Media, LLC. aka U.S. WEED CHANNEL Shane Doull is an OC OG, (born and raised here). Like many boys Shane was always into waves, motorcycles, and the beach. But, unlike most, Shane was a federal criminal at age 14 when he started dealing weed to classmates. He expanded to muling cannabis across the border at age 19. Then quit the trade with the birth of his first daughter at age 21. Returning to Legal Cannabis in 2009 he started a journey that is as hair-raising as it is inspiring.

With over a dozen firsts and wins for Cannabis legalization and media freedom Shane leads the path to legal global Cannabis lifestyle media. In 2009, he launched the world's first legal mobile cannabis store, Grand Daddy Phoenix. His arrest and subsequent realizations about the lack of media support for the Cannabis community, and the legal system's injustices and destructive properties on families like his led him to achieve groundbreaking milestones that will forever impact and protect the lives of Cannabis consumers worldwide.

While securing America's first unanimous not guilty verdicts for dispensary operations Shane founded U.S. WEED CHANNEL. He successfully negotiated with Roku, Google, Amazon, Apple, Meta, X, TikTok, the USPTO and dozens more to ensure legal Cannabis media worldwide.

Under his leadership, U.S. WEED CHANNEL is the first and only federally certified globally broadcast Cannabis lifestyle TV network in history. USWC broadcasts in 145 countries, can be viewed on virtually any screen worldwide. He has grown its viewership to over 170,000 installations on Roku, and over 25,000 dedicated followers. Shane even returned to school to obtain certification at raising Capital via a $3 million Seed Round.

U.S. WEED CHANNEL represents a historic opportunity for celebrities, influencers, content producers, and most important the first ever opportunity for advertisers and major brands to engage with the Cannabis community on a global scale... before their competitors.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Meghann Butcher is the CEO and founder of RepSpark Systems, the leading B2B eCommerce platform. RepSpark offers cloud-based software applications for sales and eCommerce, specifically designed for the apparel, footwear, and accessories industries. The platform focuses on wholesale businesses, enabling brands to sell intelligently and efficiently.

Butcher cofounded RepSpark Systems 15 years ago with a vision to revolutionize the wholesale process. Her entrepreneurial journey began in Southern California, influenced by her father's work in the apparel industry. Early in her career, Butcher gained valuable experience in sales analytics within multi-brand apparel and footwear and as a litigation consultant.

In 2007, Butcher took the foundational idea from her father's business and developed RepSpark, addressing critical inefficiencies in the wholesale brand-retailer relationship. Under her leadership, RepSpark has experienced strategic and sustainable growth, becoming renowned for its exceptional customer satisfaction and innovative solutions. Those include a digital catalog, comprehensive reporting, and the upcoming RepSpark payments feature that is poised to uncomplicate the payment experience for brands so they get paid faster.

Butcher has built a strong team and fostered a company culture that values work-life balance, collaboration, and continuous improvement, which has led to RepSpark landing on the Inc. 5000 list for two years in a row.

Butcher is a magna cum laude graduate of Vanderbilt University, and holds two undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Communications, with a minor in English. She was recognized as a Top 50 Women Leader of LA in 2023. Outside of her professional achievements, Butcher is a dedicated mother of three and enjoys activities like hot yoga, which help her maintain a balanced and fulfilling life.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Lucy Santana has dedicated nearly 25 years as CEO of Girls Inc. of Orange County (GIOC), where she has inspired thousands of girls to be “strong, smart, and bold.” Under her leadership, GIOC has grown to become one of the largest of the 78 Girls Inc. affiliates nationwide, positively impacting the lives of over 7,900 girls annually through transformative programs. These programs address vital topics such as body image, literacy, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and workforce development, helping girls from economically disadvantaged backgrounds prepare for college and careers.

In 2021, Lucy played a pivotal role in securing $10 million from Melinda French Gates’ Pivotal Ventures’ Equality Can’t Wait Challenge, which led to the creation of Project Accelerate. This initiative aims to increase the power and influence of women in the workplace by 2030, focusing particularly on women of color. Additionally, Lucy has successfully launched other impactful programs like Girls Meet the Workforce and College Bound/Grad Lab, significantly expanding GIOC’s reach and effectiveness.

Beyond her work with GIOC, Lucy actively engages in various advocacy and community groups, such as Women in Leadership in Orange County and the Latino Leadership Council of Planned Parenthood. She also serves on advisory councils for the Santa Ana Unified School District and California State University, Fullerton. Her commitment to youth development and cultural enrichment is demonstrated through her long-term volunteer work with the nonprofit arts organization Relampago del Cielo. Lucy’s passion and leadership ensure that girls in Orange County have the opportunities and support they need to thrive.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Byron Rodgers is a service-centered Executive Protection Agent, Video Blogger, Published Author, and Veteran on a steadfast mission to improve the quality of the world by making good people more dangerous. Over the span of a decade, he has gained extensive private security experience, conducting private security operations for each available VIP demographic industry-wide in over 60 countries.

During his time in the military, he served in the United States Marine Corps infantry with two deployments to Iraq as a Squad Leader for four years. Right afterward, he became an Executive Protection Agent (bodyguard). He was fortunate enough to experience a seamless transition from the military back into the civilian life he was once well-acquainted with. Ultimately, this transition inspired him to author the book, “Finding Meaning After the Military”, and he’s currently working on a few more titles within the personal growth and executive protection categories.

Today, he proudly serves as the Chief Executive Officer at Bravo Research Group, a boutique private security company out of Southern California. He is the founder of Protector Nation, a training company for first responders, private security professionals, and civilians designed to help good people become more dangerous. Through his life events, Protector Symposiums have trained many protectors from all walks of life both domestically and internationally. He owns and operates his own executive protection school and training organization called The League of Executive Protection Specialists, where he helps private security professionals take their careers to the next level. He is also the one-stop-shop security consultant for many high-net-worth individuals, their families, and various corporate initiatives.

After completing his AA in business management, he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in the Science of Psychology from the University of Phoenix and finally, he acquired his master’s degree in the art of Psychology with a minor in Forensic Psychology from North Central University. He has also received Strategic Interventionist training at the Tony Robbins Training Center. He lives by the values of wisdom, discipline, purpose, freedom, and excellence and his prayer is that his interaction with you and the rest of the world is in total alignment with those principles as often as possible.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Duran Morley is a distinguished leader among motorcycle enthusiasts and a seasoned entrepreneur, holding the esteemed positions of Founder and CEO at The Van Mart, a prestigious e-commerce store specializing in Van Accessories, as well as Vanspeed, a leading manufacturer of Secondary vehicle body alterations tailored for cargo van conversions in recreational and mobile business applications. His entrepreneurial journey began at a tender age, where he astoundingly initiated three businesses before turning 18, showcasing his remarkable acumen.

Fueled by an indomitable entrepreneurial spirit and a deep passion for the great outdoors, Duran Morley embarked on his fourth business venture, envisioning the potential and transformative lifestyle vans can offer to adventure-seeking customers. This led to the creation of Van Mart, an online store offering a wide range of van accessories, and Vanspeed, a specialized custom-built van shop. Through Van Mart and Vanspeed, Duran Morley not only inspires others to embrace the spirit of adventure but also assists businesses in promoting their brands to a wide audience.

Duran Morley's journey in the motorcycle industry began at a young age, immersing himself wholeheartedly in mastering the intricacies of building and designing motorcycles. His dedication was evident as he acquired his motorcycle license even before his vehicle license, a testament to his unmatched commitment to his craft.

In 2017, under the guidance of his mentor Roland, Duran Morley achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming the youngest builder ever invited by renowned motorcycle photographer Michael Lightner to participate in the Motorcycle as Art - Old Iron - Young Guns exhibition at the prestigious Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. This achievement garnered significant media exposure, including a notable 4-page feature in esteemed publications such as American Iron Magazine, Hot Bike Magazine, Roadkill Magazine, and Hot Rod Magazine.

Duran Morley's unwavering commitment to hard work has been pivotal in shaping him into the accomplished entrepreneur he is today. Guided by the philosophy that "Life is an adventure or nothing at all," he remains resolute in his mission to help customers bring their visions and dreams to life as they embark on their own transformative "Adventure Life" journey.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Raghu Bala is Founder of UnifyGPT.ai , an AI startup, based in Orange County, California. UnifyGPT produces AI and Autonomous Agents for Enterprises. He is an experienced technology entrepreneur and is an alumnus of Yahoo, Infospace, Automotive.com, PwC, and has had 4 successful startup exits. He is a Board Advisor to OpenFabric.ai – a Layer 1 Protocol for Artificial Intelligence.

Mr. Bala possesses an MBA in Finance from the Wharton School (University of Pennsylvania), an MS in Computer Science from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a BA/BS in Math and Computer Science from the State University of New York at Buffalo. He is the Head Managing Instructor for MIT courses in AI, Decentralized Finance, and Blockchain on the 2U platform. He is also an Adjunct Professor at VIT (India), and an ex-Adjunct Lecturer at Columbia University, and a Deeptech Mentor at IIT Madras(India).

He is a published author of books on technical topics and is a frequent contributor online for the last two decades. His latest books include - co-author of “Handbook on Blockchain” for Springer-Verlag publications (2022), and a Contributing Editor of “Step into the Metaverse” from John Wiley Press.

Mr Bala has spoken at several major conferences worldwide including IEEE Smartcomp – Blockchain Panel (Helsinki), Asian Financial Forum in Hong Kong, Global Foreign Direct Investment Conference in Sydney (Australia) and Huzhou (China), Blockchain Malaysia, IoT India Congress, Google IO, and several more. He is also served as a Board member of AIM - The global industry association that connects, standardizes and advances automatic identification technologies.

His current areas of focus include Product Development, Engineering and Strategy in the startups related to Autonomous Bots, Generative AI, IoT, Artificial Intelligence, and the Metaverse. His industrial domain knowledge spans Automotive, Retail, Supply Chain & Logistics, Healthcare, Insurance, Mobile & Wireless, and more.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Debora Wondercheck is a dedicated corporate leader, with a profound commitment to social impact and equality with close to 30 years of experience in education program implementation, and arts advocacy. Debora Wondercheck serves as the founder and CEO of the Arts & Learning Conservatory , she is also a professor of string pedagogy, a cellist, and an orchestral conductor.

Debora remains unwavering in her mission to provide culturally inclusive artistic training and education to thousands of children throughout Southern CA and believes that by nurturing and empowering the next generation, we can contribute to the ongoing healing and advancement of youth and marginalized communities. Wondercheck is also the creator and producer of the county-wide, Juneteenth staged production called "Gospel Voices of OC", and "Music of the March" professional projects that pay tribute to the indomitable spirit and faith of African American ancestors through the lens of the arts.

For the past two decades Wondercheck has stayed true to her laser focused mission of high quality and accessible arts which sets students up for success in life. Recognized as one of OC’s 125 Most Influential People and an OC Visionary, she earned acclaim as a Woman of Distinction by the CA State Assembly. In 2024, she was named Commissioner of the Arts by the city of Costa Mesa and from the state organization, She Leads CA, Debora received the Woman of Faith & Distinction award.

The Arts & Learning Conservatory, under Debora's visionary guidance, has received numerous accolades, including Orange County's Outstanding Arts Organization of the Year award and the National Youth Arts Award for Best Youth Production in Southern California. These recognitions highlight the Conservatory's commitment to excellence and its positive impact on the community displaying unwavering dedication to preserving high quality music and theatre programs for children especially in marginalized communities. Debora's commitment radiates through impactful contributions, shaping futures through the transformative power of the arts.

Tickets for Gospel Voices of OC 2024: https://muscocenter.org/

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Jairo “JC” Carrion immigrated to the United States in 1986, fleeing political persecution from his native country, Nicaragua. He has over 25 years of experience in the recruitment industry and has partnered with leading organizations across a wide range of industries, including Life Sciences, Financial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Autonomous Driving.

myTOD is the fulfillment of a commitment made 33 years ago after Carrion's first experience with a recruiting agency where he struggled to get traditional recruiters to see his true talent. He felt the frustration of being placed in unsuitable roles and swore the same experience wouldn’t happen to others in the future.

The model at myTOD is built on values that come straight from the heart, forged through real-life experiences, and fueled by a passion for disrupting the world of talent acquisition. It is also built on the promise to pay back for the mentorship and support he received throughout his career as a young professional. myTOD is committed to nurturing the talent of 1,000 disadvantaged teenagers by 2025, and 10,000 by 2032.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

Join us as we celebrate 15 incredible years of Orange County's longest-running business talk show. In our 1500th episode, host Ric Franzi interviews three distinguished guests who have made significant impacts on the Orange County business community.

Meet Our Esteemed Guests:

Paul Roberts, Creator of OC Talk Radio: As the creator of OC TALK RADIO , Paul Roberts pioneered Orange County's only online business radio station and live podcasting platform. His innovative approach to live podcasting earned an Industry Innovator Award from Radio World magazine in 2018. Paul also serves as a Digital Media Consultant for the SBA's Small Business Development Center, helping businesses amplify their stories through digital media.

Rebecca Hall, Founder of Idea Hall: Rebecca Hall is the founder of Idea Hall , and has led the agency in delivering purpose-led creative communications for 21 years. Her nearly 30 years of experience includes leading international, national, and local branding, PR, and marketing programs. Rebecca serves as the Executive Vice Chair of Chapman University’s Board of Governors and is also the President Elect for the Orange County Business Council. Her influence and dedication to community service have earned her recognition in the Orange County Business Journal’s OC500 every year since its inception in 2017.

Peter J. Brennan, Executive Editor at the Orange County Business Journal: With a career spanning over 40 years in journalism, Peter J. Brennan has authored over 30,000 articles for prestigious publications such as The New York Times, the Washington Post, and Die Welt. He's written headlines and articles that have moved the market capitalization of publicly traded companies by hundreds of millions of dollars. Currently, he serves as the Executive Editor at the Orange County Business Journal , where he oversees coverage of an economy the size of Finland.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County .

Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com .

As Chief Executive Officer of Waymakers , Ronnetta Johnson has taken a visionary approach to the future of an agency that has served the Orange County community for 50 years. From a rebranding effort, which changed the agency name and messaging to a change in the leadership structure, from program expansion to facilitation of staff and board development, Johnson has focused on strategies that will ensure the agency’s vital services will be available for future generations.

Johnson originally joined Waymakers in 1995. Within the agency, she has held the positions of Program Director for Victim Assistance Programs, Director of Human Resources, Director of Victim Assistance Programs, and since 2015 Chief Executive Officer. During her tenure with Waymakers, Johnson has been instrumental in founding Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force, establishing a crisis response team for mass victimization, opening two new crisis residential shelters, and expanding the youth development programs. Additionally Johnson has been a leader in the curriculum development and implementation of training programs for crime victim advocates throughout the State of California. Through her efforts, in partnership with her amazing team members, Waymakers has gained national, state, and local recognition for best practice service models.

Johnson is committed to mentoring and professional development for future generations of leaders and this commitment goes beyond the confines of Waymakers, sharing her expertise regionally and statewide. Johnson’s involvement with the California Crime Victims Assistance Association (CCVAA) spans almost three decades. Over the years, she held many positions in the Association, including President. Currently she is a member of the CCVAA Training Committee and serves as a core member of the curriculum development and implementation team. In Orange County, she is an Executive Coach for the Fieldstone Leadership Network. She has been a Director on the Coast Community College District Foundation Board since 2019, recently elected Board Chair.

Johnson holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership with a certificate in servant leadership from Gonzaga University and a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Utah.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

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#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Meghan Medlin’s career reflects a profound commitment to community service and transformative leadership. With over 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience, she founded Medlin Workforce & Reentry Solutions (MWRS) in 2019 and the Hub for Integration, Reentry & Employment (H.I.R.E.) in 2020.

Under her leadership, H.I.R.E. has made a significant impact, assisting over 123 individuals in its inaugural year in 2021 and now serving over 700 people annually. MWRS has also thrived, earning recognition as the emerging Woman-Owned Business of the Year in 2021.

In 2024, Medlin is leading an initiative to integrate H.I.R.E. and MWRS under one roof, creating a comprehensive “one-stop shop” for reentry and workforce development services in Orange County. Her participation in initiatives like the Stepping Up Initiative, OC Cares, Continuum of Care Board, SB 823, Ban the Box and numerous others highlights Medlin’s comprehensive approach to community betterment.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

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#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Douglas Freeman is the CEO and Executive Chair of Orange County Music and Dance , a nonprofit community performing arts school in Irvine, California. Doug comes to this role after a long career as a lawyer, businessman, civic leader and philanthropist. He served in a variety of capacities within the nonprofit field, including Board Chair of the Pacific Symphony, where he is now a Lifetime Trustee, and Board Member, now Trustee Emeritus, at the California Institute of the Arts. He was also Board Chair of the UCI Foundation and Founding Board Chair of The Literacy Project. He is currently the Chair and President of the Larry and Helen Hoag Foundation and of the Ernest and Irma Rose Foundation.

Doug has received a number of awards and recognitions, including being listed by the Orange County Business Journal on its inaugural 500 Most Influential People in Orange County (2016) and again in 2020. In 2019, he received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor Award. In 2015, he received the Orange County Boy Scouts of America Men of Character Award and in 2006, he received the University of California, Irvine, UCI Medal. Doug is the founder of National Philanthropy Day, proclaimed by Congress, signed by President Ronald Reagan in 1986, and celebrated throughout the United States. He served in the Air Force, active duty and reserves, from 1971-1981.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

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#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

His name is Jonathan Brambles, but you can call him The Email Guy. After 16 years of hands-on automation architecture in Silicon Valley, he started his LLC in 2023 to fill an industry void that marketing agencies have been fumbling for decades — quality programs not built by interns.

As an x-mechanical engineer and vintage automotive racer, Jonathan takes the same ‘zero-failure’ principles of success at the race track, and uses them to implement sophisticated eco-systems for his clients. He takes pride in not outsourcing to third world countries or handing clients off to interns. “If something’s worth doing, do it right.”

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

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#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Feryal Talebdoost is the founder of GreenPeach , driven by a clear mission: to build a trusted brand and educate parents about the crucial role of nutrition in children's development. Feryal strongly believes that prioritizing food over medication can address and minimize many medical conditions and why supplementation is essential to bridge the gap in our food supply chain.

GreenPeach is dedicated to highlighting the importance of "we are what we eat," empowering families with the knowledge to make informed dietary choices. GreenPeach's aim is to empower and help children thrive and navigate the challenges of the 21st century successfully.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

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#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Eric Gildenguys, the Founder & CEO of Rezultant Inc. , is a dynamic leader, coach and mentor helping startups and small companies who are challenged in attaining the next stage in their growth. An expert in sales and revenue development, Eric focuses on scaling revenues, operational improvements, and project management.

Having started his career in high tech at the age of 13, Eric co-founded his own software company in his 20s. Pacific Genesys was sold to Optio Software, now Bottomline Inc. As an intrapreneur, he created new revenue streams in the healthcare, retail, and new international markets. He was tapped to lead the integration of their French partner, becoming the EMEA headquarters for Optio Software. During his 3-year tenure in France, the company grew revenues by 600%.

Eric has worked in AI software, healthcare, commercial kitchen construction, project management, and clinical trials, applying his extensive expertise in growth and operations management to any industry he encounters.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

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#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Julie Hudash has a passion for empowering children to become catalysts for positive change. She is the visionary Founder & CEO of Team Kids , a non-profit organization established in 2001, which has been woven into the educational tapestry for over two decades. A devoted social entrepreneur, Julie’s innovative vision has given rise to a transformative organization that profoundly impacts the lives of young people across diverse communities, ranging from Irvine & Compton to Tempe & Harlem. Guided by Julie’s vision, Team Kids measures success not in earning profit, but in lives changed & communities strengthened.

During her college career at USC, Julie volunteered in schools in South Central Los Angeles. Struck by the academic disparities & lack of exposure to leadership opportunities, she became determined to inspire children to see themselves as leaders capable of making meaningful contributions when they feel safe, valued, significant, & connected to their communities, challenging the notion that children are "too young" to make a difference in the world.

Drawing from her experiences & expertise in the corporate sector, Julie pursued her dream of making a tangible difference & empowering the next generation of youth leaders, entrepreneurs, & philanthropists after witnessing the power of young people’s empathy & determination to raise funds for a local boy’s life-saving operation. She spearheaded the creation of the flagship Team Kids Challenge (TKC), a comprehensive 5-week, school-wide intervention program that actively engages teachers, public safety mentors, & community stakeholders. The TKC is now empirically validated with peer-reviewed research published in the American Psychological Association Journal of Psychology, Public Policy, along with three other top academic publications.

Specializing in driving systemic community change for & with youth through innovative partnerships with business, government, education, & public service organizations, Julie's lifelong dedication is evident through her achievement of transforming Team Kids’ early groundbreaking work into a national model for youth empowerment, as reflected in widespread school participation from California to Arizona to New York.

Julie is also a writer who tackles complex issues on behalf of children & has had several pieces published in The Los Angeles Times & Orange County Register. Her focus is on youth advocacy issues, including youth development, child safety, & the importance of youth-led activities to help kids thrive. She continues to evolve & partner with several organizations to extend the reach & impact of Team Kids, which has always included social & emotional learning.

Julie’s commitment & passion to protect & empower youth has resulted in her receiving several public agency & private foundation awards.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

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#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Melissa Rimoldi, CEO/Founder of Legion Force, has a unique automotive journey that spans over three decades, driven by her unwavering dedication to helping companies navigate the complexities of the automotive industry.

Melissa graduated from California State University Long Beach with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Marketing. She has worked directly for Mazda USA, Volkswagen Group of America, Innocean Worldwide on Hyundai USA, and has provided B2B/B2C/SaaS, digital technology, and vendor services across 15 OEMs in the automotive space. Her positive spirit has allowed her to develop valuable insights across the entire spectrum, from remanufacturing and quality assurance to engineering, warranty, aftersales, sales, marketing, advertising, and even starting three new start-up companies.

At a certain point in her career, Melissa took a risk and started her next journey with a commitment to make an impact. Due to her diverse background, she is on a mission to challenge the status quo by prioritizing the needs of dealers, OEMs, and everything in between. Her core focus is on creating niche partnerships within the vast automotive and retail network.

In the upcoming months, Legion Force will be launching a new platform that highlights their trusted experts. These experts will consult with real-world knowledge, experience, and unbiased insights to help clients and partners with a larger focus on the untapped opportunities in the industry. Melissa also plans to expand efforts to further support women in the automotive industry through various forums.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

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Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

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#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Perryn Holtrop is the CEO and Founder of PayNation, a payments technology company that focuses on Accounts Receivable/Accounts Payable automation for B2B companies. He is a serial entrepreneur and visionary who started his first business at the young age of 19 and holds 5 patents outside of payments. He was introduced to the payments industry over 10 years ago, and his passion for entrepreneurship, developing winning strategies, and helping businesses succeed led him to start PayNation.

Perryn has developed profitable solutions for thousands of B2B merchants and helped agents build their portfolios with solution-based selling and integrations with the most widely used accounting and ERP software. Perryn also has a passion for sharing winning strategies, experiences, and insights that contribute to the success and growth in the payment industry.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

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#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Lexi Kaz is a former Division I soccer player and the CEO and Founder of AK Infinite , which specializes in placing clients in national media. Lexi started AK Infinite in the summer of 2022. After staying consistent and building a mental framework, AK Infinite has now worked with 100 + campaigns, and now has a team of 11 plus working all over the world.

Lexi is now living the digital nomad life, traveling while leading her team and helping clients get wider reach and marketing promotions.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

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#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Lisa Anderson is the founder and president of LMA Consulting Group Inc., a consulting firm that specializes in manufacturing strategy and end-to-end supply chain transformation that maximizes the customer experience and enables profitable, scalable, dramatic business growth.

Lisa has been named in the Top 46 most influential in Supply Chain by SAP, a Top 15 Supply Chain & Logistics Expert by RateLinx, and a top 40 B2B Tech Influencer by Arketi Group. She recently published SIOP (Sales Inventory Operations Planning): Creating Predictable Revenue and EIBTDA Growth on how to successfully navigate the supply chain chaos with superior customer service and profitable growth.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

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Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Jeff Gable is an embedded software consultant for the medical device industry, where he helps medical device startups develop bullet-proof software to take their prototypes through FDA submission and into production. Combining his expertise in embedded software, FDA design controls, and practical agile methodologies, Jeff can help existing software teams be more effective and efficient, or handle the entire software development and documentation effort for a new device.

Jeff has spent his entire career doing safety-critical product development in small, cross-disciplinary teams. After stints in aerospace, automotive, and medical, he founded Gable Technology six years ago to focus on medical device startups. He also co-hosts the Agile Embedded podcast, where he and Luca Ingianni talk about how device developers don't have to choose between time-to-market and quality.

In his spare time, Jeff enjoys rock climbing, woodworking, and spending time with his wife and two small children.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

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#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Aimee Roberson invented, patented, and brought to market a product called DryMeister under her company name Meister Solutions. DryMeister is a drying wand that dries the inside of containers you can’t reach inside to dry - things like reusable water bottles, wine glasses, hydration packs, baby bottles, vases, and other odd-shaped and sometimes delicate items. Since launching a little over a year ago, DryMeister has been sold on Amazon to customers in all 50 states, an achievement that Aimee is very proud of accomplishing.

Aimee graduated from the University of Southern California and worked in media relations in the motorcycle industry before becoming a full-time, stay-at-home mom. 22 years later, when her youngest went away to college, she and her husband decided not to make any big life changes for a year so they could adjust to a new norm. But 5 months later, Covid hit. And it was then that she started her journey to become a business owner and entrepreneur.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

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#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Andrew Hartman is the Founder of Time Boss, an organization that helps leaders and their teams reinvent their relationships with time to get more done with less stress and anxiety.

Andrew founded Time Boss after burning out several times over, even losing his sense of smell for a season. He has taken all he has learned over the years to build a simple system that helps business leaders avoid the same mistakes and chaos.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Ben Chamberlin is the CEO and founder of Chamberlin Care. Ben is a husband to Christa of 15 years and father to 7 beautiful children, including a daughter with disabilities.

With over a decade of experience in the post-acute care space, he has served in the trenches as a nursing home administrator, liaison for senior communities, home care, home health, and hospice agencies, VP of healthcare operations, and owner and investor in post-acute care organizations.

Chamberlin Care was founded in October of 2022 and employs over 180 care professionals, 6 internal staff, and helps seniors and families throughout Orange County.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Kathleen Peters, chief innovation officer, leads innovation and business strategy for Experian’s Decision Analytics in North America. Kathleen and her team are continuously looking for new ways to define product strategies, road maps and priorities for Experian’s identity and fraud portfolio, analyzing industry trends and the latest technologies to bring innovative solutions to our clients.

Kathleen joined Experian in 2013 to lead business development and international growth channels for the recently acquired 41st Parameter business in San Jose, California. She went on to lead product management for Experian’s fraud and identity group within the global Decision Analytics organization, launching Experian’s CrossCore® platform in 2016, a groundbreaking and award-winning offering for the fraud and identity market.

The last two years, Kathleen has been named a “Top 100 Influencer in Identity” by One World Identity (OWI), an exclusive list that annually recognizes influencers and leaders from across the globe, showcasing a who’s who of people to know in the identity space.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Liz Flores has served as an HR Executive, strategically offering more than 20 years of HR executive leadership experience. This life success journey has offered her the opportunities to assist C-Suite professionals, organizations, and structuring startups to scale up multi-million-dollar companies.

Liz's background and expertise evolve from various industries, such as distribution, manufacturing, retail, and aerospace. She is results-driven, working through employee relations concerns, business compliance, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Bringing unification through real conversations and bridging the gap of conscious communication to optimize relationships; both for the individual and organizations alike.

As a Certified Leadership & Development Coach and Speaker, Liz has had the privilege of assisting professionals and leadership teams, empowering those who lack clarity, feel stuck, and struggle with self-doubt to build stronger teams, proactive leadership, a more fulfilled and purposeful work life culture.

Liz is the Founder of LFTM (lift them), providing HR/WC consulting, professional and leadership coaching, individual and organizational development training. Liz is also fluent in Spanish and provides Spanish language services when needed.

Liz currently serves as an Advisor for Professionals in Human Resources Association (PIHRA) for South Orange County. She also sits as a committee member for Executives of Orange County (ECOC) a non-profit organization. Her success comes from pursuing her passion; helping both individuals and organizations achieve a thriving environment and successful business goals through enriching relationships.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Mike Brown is a leader and advocate for impact and sustainability in business. He is a five-time Founder, with roles as CEO, CMO, and Board Chair. He is Chief Impact Officer at Real Leaders, growing the impact movement by connecting Impact CEOs, curating impact-oriented leadership development content, and supporting each CEO to accomplish their specific missions.

Mike is the founder of B Local Orange County, which connects local Certified B Corporations with community partners from the academic, government, and non-profit sectors. He also serves as the Business Ambassador at the United Nations Association of Orange County, promoting the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to businesses in his community.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Greg Harrigan is an Outsourced Vice President of Sales. His firm MarketShare Growth Advisors is powered by Sales Xceleration. Greg enables business owners to significantly increase their company’s value by building the best sales organization they’ve ever experienced.

Mr. Harrigan embeds on an interim basis with the business’s Executive Team to lead the B2B Sales function. This includes establishing sales strategy; implementing sales infrastructure and process; hiring, training, coaching and leading the Sales team; and meaningfully increasing a business’s top line revenue.

Prior to his current role, Mr. Harrigan was Chief Revenue Officer at a PE-owned consumer products company with $100M revenue, and earlier in his career spent 10 years as Executive VP of Sales for the Outdoor Channel, a national cable channel. Greg began his 25-year sales career with Comcast.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Mr. Roohi Toosi, PE is a passionate leader in the environmental and groundwater industry, who is bridging the gap between technology sector and traditional consulting services through the utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data automation tools.

Mr. Toosi established APEX Environmental & Water Resources to utilize his accumulated experience along with tech industry network to serve his clients more efficiently and cost-effectively. He started his career by developing a computer program for designing excavation limits as a soil remediation technique, which led to his employment at Rubicon Engineering Corporation. His passion and capabilities empowered him to grow fast within the company and during a short time he transitioned from a part time engineer to vice president of Rubicon. After Rubicon and as A-Tech Consulting’s Director of Engineering he established a new department within the company to expand A-Tech’s service offerings.

Over the course of his career, Mr. Toosi has conducted and managed projects for utilities, school districts, municipalities, military bases, private developers, contractors, farmers, water districts, and large consulting firms. His expertise encompasses all aspects of environmental engineering and hydrogeology, with emphasis on subsurface investigation and remediation, and application of AI in environmental and water management.

He is also a Board Director for California’s Groundwater Resources Association (GRA) and is organizing the 2024 Western Groundwater Conference in beautiful Lake Tahoe for October of this year.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Sloane Keane is currently chief executive officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire , the second largest of 250-plus agencies nationwide. As CEO, she is focused on accelerating the innovation of programs, strengthening the dynamic company culture and managing a scalable budget that will ensure the agency’s sustainability creates meaningful mentoring relationships for youth facing adversity.

Sloane joined the organization in 2013 as director of development and played a key role in tripling revenue from $2.6 million to over $8 million. In her most recent position as chief development officer, she helped establish financial stability for the organization and steer new funding strategies.

During Sloane’s tenure leading the development team, Big Brothers Big Sisters ran a capital campaign to purchase a 52,000-square-foot building, moved company headquarters to the new office in Santa Ana and seed-funded an endowment fund to invest in the agency’s long-term future. Her efforts have supported ongoing growth in serving more than 3,900 matches across Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties with quality mentoring relationships.

Sloane has an intrinsic belief in the power of mentoring, which has fueled her career trajectory over the last two decades. She has more than 20 years of experience directing growth in business development, marketing and media sales for companies across the country, including the Discovery Channel and Orange County Register. Prior to joining Big Brothers Big Sisters in a professional capacity, Sloane volunteered as a mentor with the organization from 2013 to 2015.

Raised in Orange County, Sloane graduated from Pennsylvania State University and currently lives in Newport Beach with her husband and two sons.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Yosmel Gutierrez, or as his friends call him Joe, is currently the CEO and Founder of YeeGoals , a platform committed to connecting businesses with industry-specific banks and bankers that see their clients not for who they are today, but for what they can become tomorrow. He is also a co-founder of EquipmentFinancings.com and a previous franchise owner of Lendio Anaheim.

Joe brings the experience of working with multiple start-ups and small businesses in the search for capital. He has developed an uncanny ability to problem-solve and develop solutions on the fly, which helps him offer the stellar customer service he is known for.

As the previous owner of Lendio Anaheim, he had the privilege of helping over 750 businesses across the nation get their PPP loans during the pandemic, amounting to a total of over $25MM. Joe has also volunteered for Habitat for Humanity, and currently for Pathway of Hope, a local food bank in the North Orange County Community College District.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Philip Kang is the founder of Wandery Capital and has over 20+ years of real estate experience with 15+ years focused in multifamily/apartment investing. His roles have included Vice President of Redevelopment at Essex Property Trust, Inc., Senior Vice President of Investments at The Picerne Group and most recently Chief Investment Officer at E&S Ring Management.

Mr. Kang has experience in asset management, operations, reinvestment, redevelopment, acquisition, disposition, and refinancing transactions, worth over $20B+ of total asset value across multiple states including California, Seattle, Nevada, Arizona, Texas and Colorado.

Mr. Kang holds an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania with majors in Real Estate and Finance and a Bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley - Haas School of Business.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Adriana Lynch has over 25 years of experience in Strategy and Brand Management. Her global experience has demonstrated significant success in the creation and execution of award-winning strategies and plans to improve product positioning, brand recognition and revenue. In the last 10 years, Adriana has worked both on Direct-to-Consumer and Business-to-Business either solely through Digital Channels or through a Multi-Channel approach.

A wiz at brand and business strategy, Adriana has held management positions with The Walt Disney Co., Häagen-Dazs, Pillsbury International, Procter & Gamble (P&G), and St. Joseph Health System. After being classically trained in Brand Management at P&G Brazil - where she managed Pampers and Always - Adriana came to the USA and got her MBA from Harvard, graduating in 1996 with Second Year Honors.

Since 2020, Adriana has been the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) for FuelRod, responsible for leading and executing the company's marketing and branding initiatives and growing the e-commerce business. Adri works with cross-functional teams and leads outsourced agencies, to drive the development and execution of marketing strategies and plans that enhance the company's market position and drive revenue growth profitably.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Randa Hoffman MBA, EA is the founder of RADIANT Wealth Planning, LLC, and RADIANT Tax Services, LLC. She is a financial planner, money manager, and tax nerd. She guides clients to build a life that they dream of but don't know how to achieve. She builds wealth and uses tax strategies to save their wealth.

Randa is independent and fee-only, meaning she is never paid a commission of any kind and has a legal obligation to provide unbiased and trustworthy financial advice as a fiduciary.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Gary Maggetti is the General Manager of Disney California Adventure Park West in Anaheim, California. Since beginning his career with the Walt Disney Company as a Jungle Cruise Skipper during the 1992 Fall College Program at Walt Disney World, and then as a Food & Beverage Host on Main Street during the 1994 Summer College Program at Disneyland Park, Gary has had a variety of roles at the Disneyland Resort: Restaurant Manager, opening project team for Disney California Adventure; Manager, Training and Development, and Operations Manager for Food and Beverage Business Solutions. He has served as Director, Disneyland Resort Hotels Food & Beverage; Director, Theme Parks Food & Beverage, and as General Manager, Food & Beverage Operations for Disneyland and Director, Food & Beverage and Merchandise Experience Integration for the Disneyland Resort. He has also worked internationally as Director, Food & Beverage for the Tokyo Disney Resort, providing strategic input to Oriental Land Company, who manages all operations at the Tokyo Disney Resort.

Today, as General Manager of Disney California Adventure Park West, he oversees all operations for the Pixar Pier, Paradise Gardens Park, Pacific Wharf and Golden Vine Winery regions of the theme park including Attractions, Retail, Food & Beverage, Guest Show operations, as well as Outdoor Vending, Park Banquets and Festival events for both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park and the Disneyland Resort Central Bakery. In addition, Gary leads the Disneyland Resort’s College & Professional Internship programs.

Gary has served as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the California Restaurant Association and is currently Chair of the Customer Experience Program Advisory Committee for the University of California at Irvine. Gary has also served on the Board of Directors for several local community organizations including the Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County, the Executive Advisory Board for the Hospitality Foodservice and Hotel Management program at California State University Long Beach, the Good News for Kids Foundation and the Tim Salmon Foundation.

Gary graduated cum laude from the Northern Arizona University School of Hotel and Restaurant Management and was a Gold Spirit of Disneyland® Resort recipient in 1998 and was inducted into the Northern Arizona University’s W. A. Franke College of Business Hall of Fame in October 2021.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Chris Folayan is a renowned and multi-award-winning serial entrepreneur, author and founder, celebrated for his exceptional ability to start and scale multi-million-dollar global companies. With an illustrious career spanning decades, Chris has demonstrated an extraordinary talent for investing, raising substantial capital, and building thriving businesses from the ground up.

His entrepreneurial journey began at the tender age of seven and a half when he started a profitable recycling business, and since then, he has become an expert across various fields, founding and exiting several successful companies globally.

Born and raised in Africa, Chris's relentless pursuit of knowledge led him to California, where he attended San Jose State University in the heart of Silicon Valley. Graduating with a degree in marketing, he discovered his passion for software development and embarked on a self-taught journey in mastering several programming and development languages. This impressive feat caught the attention of several Silicon Valley tech giants, including Quantum. At the young age of 19, Chris was recruited by Quantum, a cutting-edge hard drive manufacturing company.

During his time at Quantum, Chris immersed himself in cutting-edge software engineering which led him to work with the due diligence group for mergers and acquisition division. White at Quantum he worked on the development of numerous technical patents. Remarkably, he accomplished all of this while simultaneously pursuing a full-time college education. Chris's expertise garnered widespread recognition, and companies across Silicon Valley eagerly sought his technical and market-oriented insights.

Eventually, he left Quantum and co-founded NTM, a pioneering digital music label platform, revolutionizing the industry with the world's first indie music recording-to-digital rights and sales platform. Collaborating with artists from around the globe ensuring artists' music was safe while being encrypted and sold online. Chris dedicated his time to developing the patent for the encryption technology he developed used by NTM used by global artists.

Having successfully exited NTM, Chris founded his first of many companies, OCFX Inc. As the founder and CEO, he built OCFX into a renowned Silicon Valley brand, collaborating with prestigious Fortune 100 and 500 companies such as SONY, Quantum, LSI Logic, Accenture, Adobe, Cisco, EMC, Merrill Lynch, Elo, CapitalOne, History Channel and many others. Under Chris's leadership, OCFX built a reputation for turning clients' imaginative ideas into exceptional revenue-generating software products. Additionally, Chris spearheaded the development of several spin-off companies within the OCFX ecosystem, offering valuable tools and solutions that companies could purchase and license. Chris sold and exited several of OCFX spin-off companies to major brands.

While OCFX was growing globally with over 350 employees he had an idea and developed one of Africa’s largest eCommerce platforms MallforAfrica and MallfortheWorld. An idea he started to help people in Africa and the world who were unbanked shop on top USA and UK retailers. Starting the company from scratch wasn’t easy but Chris ended up building a multimillion-dollar monthly revenue business. And quickly became one of Africa and the world's leading eCommerce experts in emerging markets.

Completing his 4th exit after selling MallforAfrica and Mallfortheworld to a UK based business Chris wrote a book titled “From Pitch To Close: What Founders and CEOs Need to Know and Do Before An Investor Meeting” which has won him several prestigious book awards. A book written to help entrepreneurs build companies at the highest valuation possible. Chris has also written other books about entrepreneurship and investments.

Today Chris helps companies expand globally, consults, mentors, lectures, serves on several boards, invests and is an exciting public speaker with amazing motivational stories and lessons to share. Chris has spoken in over 50 countries and has a reputation for thinking outside the box and getting everyone to master the entrepreneurial mindset with his concept well known acronym P.I.N.K (Passion - Innovation - Network - Knowledge).

Reading his books, hoping on a call or listening to Chris speak is a treat. His witty comedic yet inspirational insights into building a business with passion while thinking outside the box is a masterpiece. Over 25+ years of ownership Chris still owns OCFX as a legacy brand he works under.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Gaye Tomlinson is the co-founder and CEO of Vaha Energy , a solar and energy storage project development firm, servicing California since 2008. She is responsible for the day-to-day operations of Vaha Energy as well as the procurement and strategic growth of the company.

Gaye has extensive knowledge and experience on residential, commercial, and industrial solar and energy storage systems, financial models, the latest renewable energy technology, net zero goals, and the sustainability industry in general. She is a public speaker and loves sharing her insights on start-ups, balancing it all as a woman executive, as well as her personal journey in career and life.

Gaye is an engineer by trade with an MBA from Cornell University. She is currently the President of the Cornell Club of Los Angeles.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Erin Giglia is an owner and founder of Montage Legal Group. Erin graduated cum laude from Wellesley College. She then graduated from the University of San Diego School of Law in 2001, cum laude, where she was a member of the San Diego Law Review.

After law school, Erin practiced litigation at Brobeck, Phleger & Harrison until 2002. Erin then joined Snell & Wilmer, LLP where she defended companies in product liability, premises liability, environmental and commercial litigation.

Erin left Snell & Wilmer in 2009 to co-found Montage Legal Group, a freelance attorney company comprised of 400+ exceptionally trained freelance lawyers who opted out of the traditional law firm model in favor of career flexibility.

Erin is a frequent writer and speaker on legal outsourcing, work-life balance, women in law, legal ethics and contract attorneys. Erin’s speaking engagements include presentations for the ABA, numerous bar associations and other state and regional attorney associations, and private entities. Erin and Montage have also been featured in numerous publications, including The ABA Journal, CNBC, The Atlantic, Huffington Post, and Forbes.com. In 2015, Erin and Montage were featured in “Disruptive Innovation: New Models of Legal Practice” by UC Hastings Work Life Law Center. Erin is also a frequent podcast guest.

Erin and Montage serve the community through philanthropic efforts, and were named the National Philanthropy Day Small Business of the Year in 2017 for their charitable leadership.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Kurt Lohse, a dynamic entrepreneur and co-founder of Boredroom LLC, is making waves in the beverage industry with his innovative approach to consumer packaged goods (CPG). Alongside his partner Darin Rasmussen, Lohse has embarked on a mission to transform the conventional water category into a vibrant platform for artistic expression through their venture, Bored & Thirsty . This revolutionary Media + CPG brand stands out for offering a unique and refreshing premium alkaline water experience that aligns with contemporary consumer demands for both quality and creativity​​​​​.

Lohse's journey with Bored & Thirsty is marked by significant achievements and partnerships, reflecting his visionary leadership and strategic acumen. Notably, the company has gained prominence as the exclusive water partner for the Life is Beautiful Music Festival in Las Vegas, leveraging this opportunity to gain mass exposure. Bored & Thirsty also introduced an innovative Augmented Reality (AR) enabled can of alkaline water featuring a song clip from Snoop Dogg, illustrating Lohse's commitment to merging technology with consumer goods. Further solidifying the brand's market presence, strategic relationships have been established with major players like 7-Eleven, Save Mart / Lucky, and C3 Presents the festival arm of Live Nation. These partnerships, along with the company's focus on sustainability and high-quality manufacturing processes, underscore Lohse's dedication to creating a brand that resonates with a wide range of consumers while maintaining an environmentally conscious footprint​​.

Kurt Lohse's professional background extends beyond Boredroom LLC. He founded and led Releventure LLC, a content marketing agency since its incorporation in California thirteen years ago, and before that as the CEO of his media start-up, Keycode, from 1999-2010, demonstrating his longstanding commitment to entrepreneurship and business development​ that positively transforms industries.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

As the founder of FoodTech startup Nutripair , Catlin Tran is embarking on a journey to transform the Restaurant Dining landscape.

Tran is passionate about leveraging innovation and technology to drive positive impact on society and food accessibility. She is dedicated to sharing her experiences with others in hopes of motivating young founders to begin their own entrepreneurial journeys.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Mohammed Omar is a 31-year-old entrepreneur with a passion for business that started back in middle school. He kickstarted his journey by selling candy and snacks from his locker, undercutting the school cafeteria's prices with products he sourced from Costco. This early experience ignited his love for the world of business.

His entrepreneurial career took off with an e-commerce venture, specializing in selling branded, overstocked US products acquired from swap meets and third-party sales events. As this business grew, he transitioned it into a distribution and logistics company, broadening his industry expertise.

He later delved into product development, contributing to the design and marketing of over a hundred successful products in the US market. With the success of these endeavors, he ventured into the film industry, serving as an Executive Producer for holiday movies, and he's made a strong mark in the franchise industry, currently involved in three major franchises: Crumble Cookies, Ace Pickleball Club, and Toastique.

Additionally, he is in the process of relaunching a pet shampoo brand called Splash Plus, which offers dermatologist-level skincare for pets. His entrepreneurial journey continues to evolve and expand across various sectors, fueled by a passion for innovation and growth.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Bret Englander is the Co-Founder and Director of Sales and Marketing at Cerno . A native of Laguna Beach, CA, a melting pot of artists, surfers, hippies, and entrepreneurs, Bret developed a passion for the natural environment, design, and entrepreneurship in his youth. Bret’s parents ran their own business specializing in product development for the homebuilding industry. This meant many weekends were spent touring the latest completed homes, which Bret credits for his drive and ability to combine the creative and analytical sides of running a business.

Originally, Bret wanted to pursue a career in journalism and film, graduating from the University of Colorado. After working at a newspaper, he decided to switch gears and pursue a career in business, which led to a few informative roles in finance and marketing.

In 2009, Bret teamed up with childhood best friends Daniel Wacholder and Nick Sheridan to start Cerno. As co-founder, Bret wears many hats but focuses his efforts on business development as Cerno’s Director of Sales and Marketing. Cerno is a California-based design and manufacturing company that, over the last 14 years, has grown from three founders to a team of approximately 50 people who share a passion for design and making modern lighting in Southern California.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Craig Cooke is the author of the newly released book Business Kung Fu . A successful entrepreneur, Craig had the foresight to start a “digital first” company utilizing the Internet long before “digital first,” “digital transformation,” and other buzzwords of today were created. With extremely limited resources of $1,300 and an Apple computer, he started RhythmNet.com with a couple friends from college.

Over the years of struggle, adaptation, and repositioning the brand, “Rhythm“ was sold to a world-class digital creative agency in 2019. Craig stayed with the company for just over 3 years, completing a 26-year marathon of running the company as CEO. During his tenure at Rhythm®, Craig worked with middle market to large enterprise companies, such as American Honda Motors, Beats by Dr. Dre, ZO Skin Health, Irvine Company, The Travel Corporation, Segway, U.S. Bank, FivePoint, Online Trading Academy,Allergan, Abbott Labs, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, and many other B2C and B2B brands.

During the course of leading Rhythm® to success, numerous organizational achievements were attained, including been named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies, five years in a row, and listed among the top 15 Advertising and Marketing Agencies in Orange County by the Orange County Business Journal.

In addition to the organization achievements above, Craig has been honored with several personal awards and recognitions, including being named one of the 5=40 under 40 of Orange County Professionals by OC Metro Business Magazine in 2009.

Today, Craig shares his business wisdom, experience, and expertise in three key areas: executive leadership, brand development, and marketing communications. He continues his training in martial arts, continuously learning and evolving his skills. Also, he has studied and served as a practitioner of Chinese Medical Qigong since 2015, bringing energy healing to hundreds of people.

Currently, Craig is pursuing a doctorate of Chinese Energy Medicine from the Temple of Change and Transformation. Craig incorporates his skills, knowledge, and expertise in energetic practices into the world of business to provide a truly unique perspective and method in working with professionals across a wide variety of industries.

Outside of his consulting and qigong practice, Craig enjoys spending time with his wife, two kids, and two dogs in Southern California.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Robert Riggs is the founder and managing member of Oralogix LLC , a health-care consultancy and specialty retailer of oral and perioral care products. He has over 20 years of experience in product commercialization and entrepreneurship. Robert is the innovator behind the Full Face Fitness™ movement – a program designed to integrate four previously siloed care areas: Face, Mouth, Neck, Upper Chest - plausibly uniting them into one high interest, high visibility region of the body…. The Social Zone™.

Riggs is a credentialed member of various professional societies aimed at restoration and rejuvenation of the mouth, jaw and face. He holds a master’s degree from The Johns Hopkins University, Carey Business School and is currently an Integrated Healthcare Practitioner candidate. Robert resides in Southern California.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Addison Adams is the founder of Adams Corporate Law and stands out as the go-to voice on Mergers and Acquisitions for California-based businesses. With nearly three decades dedicated to closing deals, Addison’s expertise isn’t confined to just M&A transactions. He guides business owners, helping companies of all sizes and across all industries in the Golden State achieve growth.

Whether it’s mastering investor offerings, crafting watertight contracts, or navigating intricate corporate structures, Addison’s touch is evident in everything he oversees. Whether you’re a startup enthusiast or a seasoned business professional, Addison’s tales from the trenches of deal-making and California’s dynamic business environment promise to both educate and captivate.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Ria Berger is the CEO of Healthy Smiles for Kids Orange County . She is a seasoned healthcare executive with over 25 years of Operations, Business Development, and Human Resources experience in multi-cultural, multi-site locations in the United States, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Berger served for four years as a member of the Board of Directors at CalOptima (Orange County's single largest health insurer), with $3.6 billion in revenue. She is a National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) Governance Fellow.

Berger was previously a VP of Human Resources for several Fortune 500 companies ($2B-42B revenue). She is currently the CEO and a member of the Board of Directors of Healthy Smiles for Kids of Orange County, one of the nation's largest oral health care providers for children.

Since the beginning of her tenure in 2014, the organization has increased its revenue by 250% within three years, tripled in employee headcount and launched an innovative Teledentistry program (one of the largest in the US.) Healthy Smiles was named one of Orange County Register’s Top Workplaces in 2017, 2018 and 2021, and Orange County Business Journal’s Best Places to Work in 2022.

She is a co-founder of Art 4 Fun, a 22 year-old business headquartered in London and continues to serve on the Board of Directors.

Ria Berger's greatest strengths are in the successful execution and transformation of world class organizational and business development programs. She has extensive experience in strategy, operations, board recruitment, leadership reorganization, culture transformation, and mergers and acquisitions. She masterfully architects innovative systems integration and delivers outstanding results to Fortune 500 companies, private corporations, and nonprofit organizations.

Berger holds a Master's Degree in Public Administration from the University of Southern California (USC), and has taught HR and business courses at the University of California, Irvine and USC.

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Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi , business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com.

Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews...

YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF

LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ

Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi

Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m

#orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning